Himalayan Yoga & Trekking Week in Nepal's Annapurna Region

The Mardi Himal trail is sometimes called a 'hidden gem' because it branches off the more popular Annapurna routes and sees far fewer trekkers. The path climbs from around 1,800 metres at the start to 4,500 metres at the base camp, passing through dense woodland, open ridgelines, and a couple of tiny settlements that exist mainly to host trekkers.

Yoga sessions are Hatha-based and led by the trekking guide, Jay, who has completed a guide training course at the Nepal Academy of Tourism and Hotel Management. Sessions last about an hour and focus on stretching, breathwork, and relaxation — designed to loosen up muscles after a day's walking rather than push you into advanced poses. Expect sun salutations, standing stretches, and seated forward folds, often done on the terrace of whatever lodge you're staying in that night.

The walking itself is moderate. Day two is the steepest, with a solid uphill from Kande to Deurali, but most of the route is well-established trail with occasional rocky sections. You need a reasonable level of fitness — think comfortable doing five-hour hikes with a daypack — but you don't need technical climbing experience. The guide carries a first-aid kit and monitors the group for altitude sickness as you ascend.

Meals are Nepali lodge food: dal bhat (lentils and rice), noodle soups, chapati, and plenty of tea. Lodges along the route keep basic supplies, but don't expect a varied menu — you'll eat variations of the same handful of dishes each day. The food is filling, vegetarian-friendly, and designed to fuel you for the next morning's walk.

What's included

- 6 nights accommodation (centre in Pokhara plus mountain lodges) - 3 daily meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) - Water, tea, and coffee throughout the day - Daily yoga classes - Daily meditation classes - Daily pranayama (breathwork) classes - Group trekking with a trained guide - Pre and post retreat support from the team - Transportation during the retreat (car to Kande and back from Sidhing) - Luggage storage at the centre - Wifi at the Pokhara centre

What's not included

- International flights - Travel insurance - Nepal visa fee - Additional activities not included in the itinerary - Optional spa treatments and massage - Personal expenses