Kathmandu, the vibrant capital of Nepal, offers a fascinating blend of ancient culture, rich history and modern life. Explore its UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Swayambhunath, Boudhanath Stupa and the history-rich Durbar Square, offering an enriching glimpse into Nepalese traditions. The city is a hub of temples, bustling markets and traditional crafts, providing a perfect introduction to Nepalese culture.
From the bustling capital, depart for the Annapurna Range where adventure and nature meet. Trek through lush rhododendron forests, picturesque villages, and terraced fields, experiencing the region’s beauty and diverse cultures. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking mountain views, encounter traditional villages like Ghandruk, and witness the wonders of local life. Whether exploring Pokhara or trekking to remote lodges, this tour invites you to connect with Nepal’s soul - its landscapes, people, and timeless traditions.
Fly to Kathmandu.
Land Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure.
Today, explore Patan Durbar Square, a hub of arts, handicrafts, and ornate architecture just 5km south of Kathmandu. Experience the healing magic of Himalayan singing bowls, known for their relaxing sound vibrations. In the afternoon, visit Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), a 2,500-year-old stupa with a golden spire and Buddha’s eyes. Then, head to Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with temples, palaces, and courtyards. Finish the day with a rickshaw ride from Hanuman Dhoka to Thamel, passing local shops selling Nepali spices and souvenirs.
This morning commence the scenic drive to Pokhara, the third largest city in Nepal and the starting point for most of the treks in the Annapurna area. Pokhara spans 8km from north to south and 6km from east to west but, unlike Kathmandu, it is quite loosely built up and still has much green space. Arrive Pokhara and transfer to the hotel. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure. (B)
Before breakfast we recommend waking early for a sunrise view from the grounds of the hotel or alternatively there is also the option of a bird watching tour. After breakfast there is the option of a walk around the local village to discover local life. (B,L,D)
This morning transfer by road with the guides and porters to Phedi, the trek start point. The walk travels up the terraced hillside to Dhampus where lunch will be waiting. From the lodge, there are sweeping views of the entire Annapurna Range. After lunch at the lodge there will be an optional walk through the old village of Dhampus. (B,L,D)
Drive: 1 hour
Trek: 2-3hrs
Distance: approx 3km
Elevation: 5,000ft/1,525m
After breakfast, the walk contours the side of the hill, bringing you up to the ridgeline. Take a short break in the village of Pothana at 1890m where many Tibetan traders live and sell their souvenirs. The walk then descends through sub-tropical forests that include tree orchids, rhododendrons and magnolias. Trek through the village of Majhgaon, arriving at Lodge for lunch. After lunch explore the picturesque villages of Tanchok and Patleket. (B,L,D)
Trek: 4-5hrs
Distance: approx. 9km
Elevation: 4593ft/1400m
Today continue the adventure. Trek time to the Lodge is about four hours and much time is spent contouring round and through pretty villages that have remained unchanged for centuries. In the afternoon, explore the surrounding area which is also situated near the honey cliffs made famous by the honey hunters (you can witness this collection at certain times of the year). (B,LD)
Trek: 4-5hrs
Distance: approx 9km
Elevation: 5415ft/1565m
After breakfast, leave the Lodge passing buffaloes and goats grazing in the surrounding fields - you may have to make way for the donkey and mule trains that convey goods to and from the Gurkha settlements. There may also be fellow trekkers coming down from or heading further up into the hills. After three to four hours, reach Himalaya Lodge and it is from here that there are magnificent close up views of the magnificent mountains - Annapurna South, Annapurna 1, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna and the Fishtail. Explore the mountain village and surrounding countryside, the village was once a major recruitment centre for the famous Gurkha soldiers. The women of Ghandruk maintain a local industry of weaving traditional Nepalese rugs. (B,L,D)
Trek: 3-4hrs
Distance: approx 7km
Elevation: 6,600ft/2,012m
Depart the Himalaya Lodge walking out through the village of Ghandruk descending for about two or three hours until reaching Shauli Bazaar. From there, follow along the Modi River until reaching the Sanctuary Lodge. Enjoy lunch at the lodge followed by another opportunity to walk to the village of Birethanti. Alternatively you may choose to spend the afternoon relaxing by the river bank. (B,L,D)
Trek: 3-4hrs
Distance: approx 7km
Elevation: 3750ft/1150m
After an early breakfast, depart along the ridge & descend through the wooded hillside and terraced farmland to the valley floor. Transfer by vehicle to Bandipur, a small settlement on a mountain saddle of the Mahabharat Range above the Marshyangdi River Valley. Time seems to have stood still in this living museum of Newari culture with its winding lanes dotted with traditional Newari houses. The panoramic view of the entire Annapurna range along with Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Langtang and Ganesh Himal can be enjoyed from here. Arrive and check in at the hotel, the remainder of the day is free to stroll around Bandipur. (B)
Trek: 1.5 - 2hrs.
Distance: approx. 4km
Drive time: 4 hours
Distance: 105 Km
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and drive back to Kathmandu. Arrive and check in at the hotel in Kathmandu. The remainder of the day is at leisure. (B)
Transfer to the airport for your departing flight. (B)
Price Includes
Price Excludes