Essential Nepal Encompassed

Welcome to Nepal. Arrive at the airport in Kathmandu and make your way to our hostel for your check-in. There is a pre-departure welcome briefing at 18:00 on the rooftop of our accommodation, so you can get to know the rest of the group and our tour leader. The tour leader will be able to assist with currency exchange tonight.

Afterward, we’ll make our way to Durbar Square, often called the "Museum of Temples," to discover its impressive collection of palaces, courtyards, and temples. From there, we’ll gather for a Welcome Dinner (not included) at a fantastic local restaurant, where you’ll get your first taste of Nepal’s vibrant cuisine alongside the group. The rest of the evening is yours to enjoy however you like! Consider exploring the Thamel District, known for its lively music scene and energetic nightlife.

This morning at 05:15, you’ll have the incredible opportunity to embark on a breathtaking Mount Everest flight, offering panoramic views of the world's tallest mountain range. Prepare to be awe-struck as you soar high above the majestic peaks, taking in the stunning scenery (approximately 230 GBP). You will return to the hostel at 09:30.

Later in the morning, we’ll explore some of Kathmandu’s most captivating sites on an included tour, including the iconic Swayambhunath Stupa (better known as the Monkey Temple), the tranquil Boudhanath Stupa, and the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, each offering a unique glimpse into the city’s rich history and spiritual heritage.

Please note: The Everest flight must be booked at least 2 weeks in advance, please contact us to request this.

Kathmandu - Lalitpur - Nagarkot. This morning, we’ll journey from Kathmandu to Lalitpur, where we’ll explore the city’s stunning temples and have the chance to meet a living goddess who resides there. Our visits will include the beautiful Golden Temple and the sacred Bangla Mukhi Temple, each offering a unique insight into the region's spiritual heritage.

Late morning, we’ll transfer to Nagarkot, where the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. You can relax over lunch or take an optional 30-minute hike to a viewpoint for a stunning sunset.

Nagarkot - Bhaktapur - Pharphing - Kathmandu. Today, we’ll transfer to Bhaktapur, where we’ll enjoy an included walking tour of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Known as Nepal's best-preserved city, Bhaktapur offers an authentic atmosphere with its brick-paved streets, charming red-brick houses, and a way of life that harks back to medieval times. You’ll delve into its rich history and culture with the help of our local guide.

At 14:00, we’ll transfer to Pharphing. Upon arrival, we’ll visit the monastery to observe monks debating and praying, before taking a walk to the cave where the great Master Padmasambhava meditated. After the monastery visit, we’ll return to Kathmandu, and the rest of the evening is yours to enjoy at your leisure.

Kathmandu - Chitwan National Park. We’ll begin early this morning at 06:30, transferring to Chitwan National Park, with a breakfast stop in a nearby hamlet. Upon arriving at Chitwan, you can enjoy lunch before we continue with the day’s activities.

We’ll embark on a thrilling Jeep safari to spot wildlife, including various species of deer (spotted, hog, barking, and sambar), monkeys, and the endangered one-horned rhinoceros. With some luck, we might even catch a glimpse of a leopard, sloth bear, or the elusive Bengal Tiger, though sightings of tigers in Chitwan are rare. After the safari, we’ll enjoy an included canoe trip along the river, followed by a relaxing coffee by the riverside as we watch the sunset. To end the day, later we’ll experience the vibrant Tharu Cultural Show.

Chitwan National Park - Lumbini. Today, we’ll travel from Chitwan National Park to Lumbini. We should at around 14:00, and you can enjoy a late lunch before we continue with the tour.

We’ll enjoy an included visit to the Maya Devi Temple, the birthplace of Buddha, and you’ll have the opportunity to try meditation in the Ashok area of the temple grounds. We’ll also explore several other temples built by Buddhist communities from countries such as Cambodia and Germany. The Maya Devi Temple is the spiritual heart of Lumbini, and silence is required when visiting the birthplace of Buddha. You’ll also have the chance to practice a short meditation near the Ashok Pillar with our tour leader.

Lumbini - Pokhara. We’ll transfer to Pokhara, stopping for lunch at Ramdi along the way. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you’ll have some free time to explore at your leisure.

In the early evening, we’ll join our tour leader and fellow travellers for a fun and interactive momo-making class. Momo, a popular Nepalese dish, are delicious dumplings filled with either meat or vegetables and seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices. We’ll learn the art of preparing these tasty treats, and you’ll have the chance to enjoy the fruits of our labour, either as a late lunch or dinner.

Today is a free day, you have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of independent activities. For the thrill-seekers, you can try Kushma Bungee Jumping, the second highest bungee in the world (approximately 9,000 NPR) including photos and videos, plus transportation. Alternatively, experience the stunning views of Pokhara with paragliding (approximately 116 USD) or explore the fascinating Mountain Museum (approximately 500 NPR). If you prefer a more relaxing day, spend your time unwinding near the lakeside, soaking in the serene surroundings.

At 16:00, we’ll set off for a leisurely included boat ride on the serene Phewa Taal Lake. As we glide across the crystal-clear waters, we’ll take in the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the picturesque lakeside. This is the perfect opportunity to relax, enjoy the natural beauty, and capture some unforgettable moments. Later today there will be an opportunity for you to catch a movie at the Movie Garden (approximately 1200 NPR).

Pokhara - Ghorepani (Poon Hill Trek). We’ll start our two day trekking of Poon Hill with breakfast at the hotel at your own expense before setting off at 7:30. We’ll travel by bus and jeep towards the Himalayas, passing through the vibrant Pokhara City and several local villages along the way. The mountain road can be rough, and the journey will take approximately 4 hours, offering us scenic views of the landscape as we go.

Upon arrival, we’ll stop for lunch at one of the local restaurants, where you can enjoy a meal with stunning mountain views. After lunch, we’ll begin our hike through the jungle and mountains to reach Ghorepani village. This will take about 2.5 to 3 hours of uphill trekking, with breaks along the way if needed. Once we arrive at the guesthouse, you’ll have the chance to relax and enjoy a beautiful sunset (weather permitting) before having dinner and settling in for the night.

Ghorepani (Poon Hill Trek) - Tadapani (Poon Hill Trek). Opt to start the day with a hike to Poonhill (3291m) for breathtaking sunrise views of the Himalayan Range. The hike will take about an hour uphill, giving you a chance to marvel at the stunning panorama. Afterward, you can enjoy a hearty breakfast at the guesthouse before bidding farewell to our hosts.

At 9:00, we will embark on a long hike, passing through lush jungles and past several peaks. The trek will take around six hours, including breaks, depending on our pace. The first hour and the last 45 minutes will be uphill, with the rest of the journey mostly downhill. We will stop for lunch at a mountain restaurant around midday. Around 16:00, we will arrive at the guesthouse in Tadapani, where we can relax, enjoy dinner, and unwind, taking in the beautiful sunset and sunrise views.

Tadapani (Poon Hill Trek) - Chhomrong. At 08:00, we say goodbye to those members of the group who aren't trekking to Annapurna Base Camp. We begin our trek from Tadapani to Chomrong (2100m), a journey that will take us around 5 hours. The route starts with a descent from Tadapani to Gurjung, offering us stunning views of the upper Modi Valley. After a peaceful walk through the forest, we will emerge into an open area with three lodges, where we’ll be treated to spectacular views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and Machhapuchhre. Continuing from Chuinle, the trail leads us down terraced mountainsides to the Khumbu Khola, where we cross a suspension bridge before climbing slightly to follow a winding path up to a landslide area, where we can take a break at a quiet tea house.

We will then take a short descent along an easy trail to a track junction, with Jhinnu nearby. From here, we will ascend stone-paved steps to the top of Chhomrong, before making our way down to the New Chhomrong Guest House for the evening. You can relax and enjoy a well-earned dinner after the day's journey.

Chhomrong - Dobang. We begin our day by descending 2,500 stone steps and crossing the bridge above Chhomrong Khola. From here, we climb uphill to Sinuwa, before passing through a beautiful forest on our way to Kuldihar. The trail then takes us on an easy downhill walk to Bamboo, where we will stop for lunch and recharge. After enjoying your meal, we will continue our trek to Dobang (2520 m), which will take approximately 6 hours of walking. Upon arrival, we can relax and unwind, ready for the next day’s adventure.

Dobang - Deurali. We begin our 6-hour trek from Dobang to Deurali (3230m), passing through a damp and cold bamboo forest. The trail ascends steadily, with a few steep sections, and we reach the Himalaya Hotel, where the forest opens up, offering us the chance to bask in the sun while enjoying stunning views of the glacial river below. As we continue, the climb becomes steeper, taking us through a much drier forest before we reach Hinku Cave. From here, the trail descends closer to the river before ascending again towards Deurali. This stretch of the hike is the most scenic of the day, with sparser vegetation and magnificent views of the valley, the river below, and towering rock-face cliffs adorned with cascading waterfalls.

Deurali - Annapurna Base Camp. We begin our trek from Deurali towards Annapurna Base Camp (4130m), where the valley widens and becomes less steep. After ascending some stone staircases, we reach a spot where an avalanche claimed the lives of several trekkers a decade ago. We continue with caution until the magnificent white peaks of the mountains come into view, appearing closer with each step. After passing Machhapuchhre Base Camp, the trail turns left in the valley, guiding us on a more pleasant walk toward Annapurna Base Camp.

At this altitude, the thinner air may begin to affect us, so it’s important to pace ourselves and not rush. Upon reaching Annapurna Base Camp, we find ourselves surrounded by an awe-inspiring amphitheatre of snow-capped mountains, offering breathtaking views of Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South (7,219m), Machhapuchhre (Mt. Fishtail) (6,997m), and numerous other stunning peaks. The sight is truly magnificent, rewarding us for our efforts and providing an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Himalayas. Congratulations on reaching Annapurna Base Camp!

Annapurna Base Camp - Sinwa. After soaking in the stunning mountain views, we begin our trek back, heading down to Dovan or Bamboo via Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC), Deurali, and Himalaya. Along the way, we will stop for tea and lunch breaks, allowing you to refuel and rest as we make our way down through the beautiful scenery. The descent offers a different perspective of the surrounding landscapes, and we’ll take our time to ensure a comfortable journey back to Sinwa.

Sinwa - Landruk. We begin our day with a walk from Sinwa to Chhomrong, where we then descend steeply to Jhinu Danda. If you wish, you can take a refreshing dip in the hot springs before we continue our journey. Afterward, we cross the Kyumnu Khola via a long, high suspension bridge and make our way through a beautiful ravine valley towards Landruk. Along the way, we’ll take breaks for tea and lunch, giving you a chance to rest and enjoy the stunning scenery.

Landruk - Annapurna Australian Camp. We begin our trek from Landruk, following a pleasant, easy trail to Tolka before ascending through the forest to Pitan Deurali. From there, we continue along a beautiful ridgeline to Pothana and on to a special viewpoint known as Australian Camp. After a short walk, we reach our destination and check into Angel's Lodge for the night. You can relax and enjoy your stay, taking in the stunning views and the serene atmosphere of the camp.

Annapurna Australia Camp - Kande - Pokhara. After enjoying the breathtaking sunrise over the Annapurna Range and Manaslu, we begin our final 1-hour descent from Australian Camp to Kande. From Kande, we take a scenic drive, passing through Kaski Danda and Sarangkot, before reaching Pokhara. Once we arrive, you have the afternoon free to explore this beautiful lakeside city at our leisure. You can enjoy a relaxing time by the lake, visit local shops, or take in the vibrant atmosphere of Pokhara.

Pokhara - Kathmandu. Today we’ll begin our journey back to Kathmandu, making the most of the scenic drive. Along the way, we’ll stop for a white-water rafting experience. Afterward, we’ll continue our drive, arriving in Kathmandu later in the day. You’ll have some time to relax and unwind after the adventure or explore more of the city at your own pace before our tour comes to an end.