Mardi And Kopra Ridge Trek
Duration:
15 Days
Max Altitude:
4500m
Country:
Nepal
Activity:
Hiking & Trekking
Best Season:
Sept-Nov-March-May
Difficulty:
Moderate
Moderate
- Requires basic physical fitness and some prior trekking experience.
- Rough trails, some elevation gain.
- Altitude up to 4,000 meters.
- Walking time up to 6-7 hours per day.
Discover the spiritual heart of the Annapurna region on the Kopra Ridge, Mardi Himal, and Hidden Lake trek, a newly developed, less-traveled path. This journey offers a blend of breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural traditions. Traverse vibrant rhododendron forests, encounter diverse wildlife, and witness panoramic mountain views, including iconic peaks like Dhaulagiri and Fishtail. The highlight is the sacred Khayar Lake, nestled beneath Annapurna South, a site of pilgrimage where devotees seek fulfillment and purification. Experience the unique spiritual significance of this lake and the annual Puja ceremony that draws visitors from around the globe.
Trip Highlight
- Spectacular Annapurna Vistas: Witness awe-inspiring views of Mount Fishtail, Dhaulagiri, and a multitude of other Himalayan giants.
- Diverse Landscapes: Traverse lush rhododendron forests, serene yak pastures, and the dramatic ridges of Mardi Himal and Kopra Ridge.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience the vibrant traditions and warm hospitality of the Gurung and Magar communities.
- Sacred Hidden Lake: Discover the holy Khayar Lake, nestled beneath the towering Annapurna South, a site of spiritual significance.
- Panoramic Sunrises and Natural Beauty: Enjoy breathtaking sunrises above the clouds, and explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
- Dramatic Dhaulagiri Views: Experience the thrill of witnessing the massive Dhaulagiri range in all its glory.
Guidelines Itinerary
Suggested itinerary: If itinerary is not suitable to your needs then no problems, we can tailor any of our itineraries or build a trip from scratch to meet your needs and preferences.
Day 1 - Arrival in Kathmandu
- 1,300m/4,264ft
- Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), where our representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel.
- In the evening, explore the vibrant Thamel area and experience Nepali culture through food and drinks.
Day 2 - Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Preparation
- 1,300m/4,264ft
- Embark on a full-day tour of Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa.
- Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 3 - Fly to Pokhara, Drive to Kande, Trek to Deurali (Drive 1 hour, Trek 3 hours)
- Enjoy a scenic 25-minute flight to Pokhara.
- Drive to Kande (approximately 1 hour) and begin your trek to Deurali, passing through Australian Camp and Pothana.
- Overnight in Deurali.
Day 4 - Trek to Low Camp
- 3,050m
- Duration: 6 hrs
- Trek through lush forests, enjoying diverse flora and fauna, including rhododendron flowers.
- Continue through dense forest, experiencing a “jungle safari” feel, to Forest Camp for lunch.
- Proceed to Low Camp for the night.
- Overnight in Low Camp.
Day 5 - Trek to High Camp
- 3900m
- Duration: 4 hrs
- Trek uphill along a ridge towards Mardi Himal and Machhapuchhre.
- Witness thinning tree lines and shrubs with isolated rhododendron bushes.
- Keep an eye out for wildlife, such as the Daphne pheasant and deer.
- Ascend to High Camp.
- Overnight in High Camp.
Day 6 - Trek to Upper Viewpoint/Mardi Himal Base Camp, Return to Forest Camp
- Duration: 5 hrs
- Wake up early and hike to the Upper Viewpoint (or Mardi Himal Base Camp, conditions permitting).
- Enjoy panoramic views of Mardi Himal, Annapurna I and South, Hiunchuli, Baraha Shikhar (Mt. Fang), Tent Peak, Singhachuli, Machhapuchhre, and others.
- Descend to Forest Camp.
- Overnight in Forest Camp.
Day 7 - Trek to Landruk and Ghandruk
- 1945m
- Duration: 6 hrs
- Descend through forests to Landruk, enjoying views of Annapurna South.
- Continue to Kumi, crossing the Modi River bridge.
- Ascend via stone steps to Ghandruk.
- Overnight in Ghandruk.
Day 8 - Trek to Tadapani and Dobato
- 3350m
- Duration: 6 hrs
- Trek to Tadapani through forests and countryside.
- Leave the main trail and follow an off-the-beaten-path route.
- Enjoy diverse flora and fauna, and views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna South.
- Reach Dobato.
- Overnight in Dobato.
Day 9 -Trek to Upper Chistibung
- 2975m
- Duration: 4-5 hrs
- Descend through open ground and forests to Lower Chistibung.
- Ascend to Upper Chistibung, a temporary herder’s settlement.
- Look for the Lophophorus (Danphe) and Himalayan thar.
- Overnight in Upper Chistibung.
Day 10 -Trek to Khopra Ridge
- 3,660m
- Duration: 3-4 hrs
- Climb above the tree line through alpine meadows to Khopra Ridge.
- Enjoy views of Annapurna South and the Kali Gandaki River gorge.
- Admire the mountain panorama, including Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Annapurna South.
- Overnight in Khopra Ridge.
Day 11 - Khopra Ridge Acclimatization and Khaire Lake Excursion
- 4,500m
- Duration: 10-11 hrs
- Hike to Khaire Lake, a sacred lake for Hindus.
- Enjoy the lake’s spiritual significance and surrounding shrines.
- Optional half-day walk from Khopra.
- Overnight in Khopra Ridge.
Day 12 - Trek to Swanta Village
- 2,200m
- Duration: 5-6 hrs
- Descend from Khopra Ridge to Swanta Village.
- Enjoy views of Dhaulagiri and surrounding mountains.
- Overnight in Swanta Village.
Day 13 - Trek to Ulleri , Drive to Pokhara
- 2050m
- Duration: 5-6 hrs
- Descend through village fields, cross a river, and visit a local watermill.
- Cross a suspension bridge and ascend to Ghorepani.
- Descend through rhododendron forests to Ulleri.
- Drive from Ulleri to Pokhara.
Day 14 - Pokhara Sightseeing, Drive to Kathmandu
- Enjoy Pokhara sightseeing, including the World Peace Pagoda, Devi’s Fall, and caves.
- Drive back to Kathmandu.
- Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 15 - Final Departure
- Our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure.
Costs Included in Your Package:
- Airport Assistance:
- Personalized assistance at the International Airport by a Step By Step Treks & Adventures representative (your guide) upon arrival and departure, as per your flight details.
- Accommodation in Kathmandu:
- Three nights in a deluxe hotel in Kathmandu, including breakfast.
- Accommodation in Pokhara:
- One night in a deluxe hotel in Pokhara, including breakfast.
- Meals During the Trek:
- Three meals per day (breakfast, lunch, and dianner or soups).
- Three times a tea, coffee or hot drinks.
- Accommodation During the Trek:
- Trekking lodge (tea house) accommodation.
- Permits & Paperwork:
- All necessary permits, including the Annapurna Conservation Permit
- Tims Card
- Domestic Flights & Transfers:
- Two way flight from Kathmandu – Pokhara – Kathmandu.
- Trekking Staff:
- A highly experienced, knowledgeable, and friendly English-speaking guide, trained and licensed by the Government. The guide’s salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transportation, and insurance are covered.
- Strong and reliable Sherpa porters (one porter for every two trekkers) with proper safety and trekking equipment. Their salary, food, accommodation, and insurance are covered.
- Assistant guide provided for groups of five or more.
- Safety & Health Support:
- Comprehensive first-aid medical kit.
- Emergency helicopter evacuation assistance (to be covered by your travel insurance company).
- Oxygen meter to check pulse, oxygen saturation, and heart rate twice daily—essential for monitoring altitude sickness (AMS) symptoms.
- Trekking Gear & Extras:
- Use of a sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag, and walking poles (if needed, to be returned after the trek).
- Step By Step Treks & Adventures T-shirt.
- Trip achievement certificate upon successful trek completion.
- Kathmandu Sightseeing:
- A guided city tour in Kathmandu with a private car or jeep.
- Government Taxes & Fees:
- All necessary government taxes and official expenses.
- Farewell dinner
Costs Not Included:
- Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara:
- Lunch and dinner while staying in Kathmandu and Pokhara (25-35 USD per a day)
- Visa Fees for Nepal:
Easily obtainable upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu):
- $30 USD for a 15-day visa
- $50 USD for a 30-day visa
- $125 USD for a 90-day visa
- Personal Travel & Medical Insurance.
- International Airfare.
- Personal Expenses:
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, hot chocolate, cocoa, mineral water, and extra food purchased along the trek or in the tea houses.
- Desserts and sweet items (chocolates, cakes, pies, puddings, etc.).
- Hot showers and battery charging at the tea houses.
- Trekking Staff Tips:
- Tips for your guide, porter, and driver (tipping is expected).
- Sightseeing Entry Fees in Kathmandu:
- Monument entrance fees ($10/15 USD per person per a spot).
- Early Return Policy:
- If you return early from the trek due to illness or other reasons, the money paid for flights, hotels, food, and accommodation is non-refundable
- Any additional expenses incurred in Kathmandu (such as accommodation and meals) must be covered by the trekker.
SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION
MAP
How Your Adventure Makes a Difference
Climate Action in the Himalayas:
Supporting tree planting and carbon offsetting initiatives to reduce our environmental impact.
Expanding Education Access
Providing textbooks, stationery, and learning resources to rural schools in Nepal.
School Renovation
Rebuilding and improving schools to create safe, supportive learning environments for vulnerable children in rural Nepal
Community Empowerment
Equipping communities with vocational training in sustainable agriculture and tourism, fostering economic independence
Transparent Giving
100% of our trip-based commissions go to FourPOSE Charity, driving real and lasting social change.
Essential Info
Nepal Tourist Visa – Entry & Regulations
Passports & Visas for Nepal
All travelers entering Nepal require a valid passport with at least six months validity and a full blank page for the visa stamp. A Nepal tourist visa is required and must be paid for in cash upon arrival at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport or at border entry points. You will also need a passport-sized photo (photo booths are available at the airport if needed).
Current Visa Fees (Single-Entry Tourist Visa):
- 15 Days – $30 USD
- 30 Days – $50 USD
- 90 Days – $125 USD
Visa extensions are available for $3–5 per day, with a minimum charge of $30 for 15 days or less. Nationals of SAARC countries (except India) can obtain a Gratis (Free) 30-day Visa, but extensions follow standard visa rules. Indian nationals do not require a visa to enter Nepal. For full visa details, visit Nepal’s official immigration website.
Choosing the right season is paramount for a safe and unforgettable Everest experience. At Step By Step Adventure with Purpose, we prioritize your comfort and safety, recommending the spring and autumn seasons for the most favorable conditions.
Best Trekking & Tour Seasons in Nepal
Nepal’s trekking seasons vary based on weather conditions and altitude. Understanding the best times to trek helps ensure an enjoyable and safe experience.
Spring Trekking (March–May)
Spring is a fantastic season for trekking with warmer temperatures at higher altitudes and rhododendron forests in full bloom. It is also a peak season for mountaineering expeditions.
Summer & Monsoon Season (June–Mid-September)
The monsoon season brings heavy rain and humidity, making most trekking routes challenging. However, Upper Mustang and Manaslu remain great options as they fall in rain-shadow areas and receive less rainfall.
Autumn Trekking (Mid-September–November)
This is the best trekking season in Nepal, with clear skies, stunning mountain views, and stable weather. Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, and Langtang Valley treks are most popular during this time.
Winter Trekking (December–February)
Winter trekking is possible but very cold at higher elevations. Lower-altitude treks like Ghorepani Poon Hill and Helambu are great choices for winter trekking.
Altitude Sickness & Prevention
Altitude Sickness (Acute Mountain Sickness – AMS) is common above 2,500 meters (8,200 feet) due to lower oxygen levels. Symptoms include:
- Headache, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting
- Fatigue, difficulty sleeping, and confusion
- Shortness of breath and loss of appetite
Prevention Tips:
✔Acclimatize properly – Follow the rule: climb high, sleep low
✔Stay hydrated – Drink at least 3–4 liters of water daily
✔Avoid alcohol & sleeping pills – These worsen AMS symptoms
✔Ascend gradually – Over 3,000m, increase altitude by 300m per day
✔Consider medication – Diamox (Acetazolamide) 125mg may help prevent AMS
Golden Rules for AMS:
- Recognize symptoms early and stop ascending if mild AMS develops
- If symptoms worsen, descend immediately
- Never leave a teammate behind unattended
Essential Trekking Equipment & Packing List
Having the right gear is crucial for comfort and safety. Most trekking equipment can be bought or rented in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Must-Have Gear:
Clothing: Moisture-wicking base layers, fleece, insulated jacket, waterproof shell
Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots, thick socks, and camp shoes
Accessories: Sunglasses, gloves, hat, trekking poles
Sleeping Gear: Sleeping bag rated to -10°C to -20°C
Backpack: Daypack with waterproof cover
First Aid Kit: Diamox, pain relievers, blister treatment, personal medication
Hydration & Snacks: Water bottles, energy bars, and hydration tablets.
Tea House Lodging & Trekking Food in Nepal
Tea houses are small guesthouses found along trekking routes, providing basic accommodation and meals.
Accommodation:
- Twin-sharing rooms with simple beds and blankets
- Shared bathrooms with either squat or western-style toilets
- Dining areas with a communal heater (common in higher elevations)
- Limited electricity & Wi-Fi – Charging devices may cost extra
Meals & Beverages:
- Dal Bhat – Traditional Nepali meal with rice, lentils, and vegetable curry
- Soups & Noodles – Garlic soup, Sherpa stew, and fried noodles
- Breakfast Options – Porridge, pancakes, Tibetan bread, eggs
- Tea & Coffee – Black tea, milk tea, hot chocolate, and herbal tea
- Limited beverages – Beer and soft drinks available at extra cost
Travel & Trekking Insurance
Trekking in Nepal involves risks, so comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for high-altitude treks.
Insurance Coverage Should Include:
- Medical emergencies & helicopter evacuation (above 5,600m)
- Trip cancellations, delays & lost baggage
- Personal accident & repatriation
Recommended Insurance Providers:
Trekking Grades – Choosing the Right Trek
Nepal treks are categorized by difficulty based on altitude, terrain, and trekking duration.
Trek Difficulty Levels:
🔹 Easy Treks (Grade 1) – Suitable for beginners, below 3,000m, 4–5 hours walking per day (e.g., Ghorepani Poon Hill, Langtang Valley)
🔹 Moderate Treks (Grade 2) – Slightly challenging, reaching 3,500m, 5–6 hours walking per day (e.g., Annapurna Base Camp, Mardi Himal)
🔹 Strenuous Treks (Grade 3) – High-altitude treks above 4,000m, requiring prior trekking experience (e.g., Everest Base Camp, Manaslu Circuit)
🔹 Very Strenuous Treks (Grade 4–5) – Remote, high-altitude expeditions over 5,500m (e.g., Everest Three Passes, Island Peak Climb)
Final Thoughts
At Step By Step Adventure with Purpose, we are committed to providing safe, sustainable, and meaningful travel experiences. Whether you are trekking in the Himalayas, exploring Nepal’s rich culture, or contributing to local communities through FourPOSE Charity, every journey with us leaves a positive impact.
Walk. Explore. Experience. Give Back.
Start Planning Our Trip
Step by Step have a wealth of knowledge and experience to help you plan your adventure of a lifetime.
- Call +977 9846149129
- or fill in our enquiry form
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