Welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival in Kathmandu a travel-to-nature Asia guide/representative will be at the airport to greet and take us to our hotel. Please look out for your name-card once you exit out of arrival area.

If you’re not feeling jet-lagged, take some time to explore Kathmandu’s medieval backstreets, discover temples dating back to the 16th century, make your way down to Thamel, the main tourist hub in Kathmandu and a great place to dine. There are myriads of options to choose from like New Orleans Cafe, Rum Doodle, Bear Garden etc just to name a few. Enjoy your evening and get some rest as the adventure begins tomorrow!

Accommodation:  Hotel Yak & Yeti

Kathmandu Darbar Square – Swayambhunath – Patan

Our local tour guide will meet us at the hotel and introduce to the cities of Katmandu Valley. We begin our morning visiting Kathmandu’s main sites, including Durbar Square, Teleju Temple and the House of the Living Goddess. Durbar Square (UNESCO Heritage site), one of the old capitals of the Kathmandu valley, is a synthesis of Hindu and Buddhist temples, stupas and statues, and is often the site of festivals, marriages and other ceremonies. Kathmandu’s Durbar (palace) the heart of the capital was where the city’s kigs were once crowned and legitimized, and from where they ruled.

Next, we climb the many steps to Swayambhunath (UNESCO Heritage site) known by the name ‘ the monkey temple’ with its commanding views of Kathmandu (at 1,420 m), its whitewashed stupas and its unique synthesis of Buddhism and Hinduism. From here we can see the mighty Himalaya rising above the valley. Journey to nearby Patan (UNESCO Heritage site), the city of arts and architecture founded in AD 250 and known for its fine works in bronze, silver and copper. Many of these treasures can be seen in the new Patan Museum. Time permits also visit the Tibetan Refugee Camp to watch a demonstration in carpet weaving.

Accommodation: Hotel Yak & Yeti
Meal: Breakfast

Pashupatinath – Boudhanath – Bhaktapur

Weather permitting, start our day with an optional scenic mountain flight over the Himalaya to view Mt. Everest and many eastern ranges of Himalayas. Or begin your morning, visiting Hindu Pashupatinath (UNESCO Heritage site) and its sacred temple complex on the banks of the holy Bagmati river. Here, monkeys run up and down the steps of the burning ghats, and trident-bearing saddhus draped in burnt-orange and saffron sit serenely meditating – when they’re not posing for photos-for
rupees.

Next, the striking Buddha eyes of Boudhanath Stupa (UNESCO Heritage site) watch over a lively and colorful Tibetan community and attract pilgrims from all over the Himalayan Buddhist realm. In the midst of traditional gompas, and hung with long strings of multi-colored prayer flags, Boudhanath attracts Sherpas, Tibetans and tourists alike for daily circumambulations (koras) of the stupa. For lunch we will drive to Bhaktapur city. Bhaktapur (UNESCO Heritage site) is a home of medieval art and architecture and it is like a living museum. As we walk along its cobblestone streets, notice the many ornately carved windows for which the town is famous. Over dinner we go over gear for trek & wildlife Safari and get to know your trekking guide.

Accommodation: Hotel Yak & Yeti
Meal: Breakfast

After our leisurely breakfast, fly from Kathmandu domestic airport to Bharatpur in Chitwan (20 mins). Upon arrival at the airport we will be received by Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge representative and drive to the lodge at the edge of the Chitwan national Park arriving in time for lunch.

Arriving at the gate to Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge, we will be met by Tiger Tops staff with a welcome drink in the dining hall. Continue to the garden where the lunch will be waiting for you. After the lunch we will have a chance to settle in to your rooms and explore the lodge grounds – our large swimming pool beckons temptingly and it is easy to while away a sunny afternoon swimming and reading with a cool drink in hand. After tea and biscuts in the main area, we suggest you take a stroll to the Narayani river with our resident elephants and one of our naturalists and watch the family of elephants bathe and frolic while you enjoy your sundowners. Return to the lodge for hot showers and cold drinks before dinner.

Chitwan National Park comprises 932 square kilometers of Sal and riverine jungle, a magnificent environment which contains a greater variety of wildlife than any other area of Nepal. Over 500 species of birds have been recorded here, as well as many mammals, reptiles and numerous insects. Mammals are likely to include the endangered Indian Rhinoceros, Wild Boar, Sambar, Muntjac, Spotted and Hog Deer, Rhesus and Hanuman Monkeys, whilst reptiles we may encounter include Marsh Mugger Crocodile and the fish-eating Gharial. Leopards, Sloth Bears, and Gaur (wild bison) are all fairly common and occasionally seen by the lucky ones! Chitwan has the largest population of Tigers in Nepal and although never easy to locate, we do have a chance of coming across one of these magnificent cats, especially in the evening when they are at their most active.

Accommodation:  Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

River and Jeep Safari

Breakfast is served al fresco beneath the shady mango trees –  yoghurt , eggs and bacon to get the day off to a perfect start. After breakfast, prepare for a river safari in the Narayani river. The outing commences with a nature walk or bullock cart ride through the riverine forest, followed by a scenic float down the river. Cruising on the wide expanse of the river, pockets of rapids propel the boats along as gentle waves lap at th e sides. Sitting inside a hand – carved boat , keep your eyes peeled for a variety of birdlife and wildlife . Top of the list is the endangered fish – eating Gharial crocodile and its more sinister relative , the Marsh – Mugger.

A Nepali – style lunch will be served back at the Lodge , after which we might want to head to the hammock with your book for relaxation. Later in the afternoon, when the weather is cooler and the animals become active , meet with our naturalist for a jeep safari in the national park to get a taste of the jungle. Do not hesitate to ask questions. Our naturalist are extremely knowledgeable on the animals and the history of Chitwan National Park. During the safari you will encounter wildlife such as different species deer, birds , monkeys , and the endangered one – horned rhinoceros and hopefully the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger.

Accommodation: Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today we travel on to scenic Pokhara (approx 5 hour drive). Pokhara is the gateway to the magnificent Annapurna Range, which boasts five mountains over 7,200 m and has one of the Himalayas most distinctive mountains Machhapuchare with its unique ‘fishtail’ peak. The local people believe Machhapuchare is sacred to the god Shiva and therefore is off limits to climbing. Arriving in the afternoon, there’s time to relax and perhaps take a stroll around the lakeside market.

Accommodation: Fish Tail Lodge
Meal: Breakfast

Boating on Lake Phewa 

Early this morning you drive (approx. 45 minutes) to World Peace Pagoda with a packed breakfast. The World Peace Pagoda is a massive Buddhist stupa, situated on the top of a hill on the southern shore of Phewa Lake. Besides being an impressive sight in itself, the shrine is a great vantage point which offers the spectacular views of the Annapurna range, Phewa Lake and Pokhara city. We then take a scenic two hour walk back to Pokhara via Raniban forest crossing the suspension bridge and enjoying wonderful views of the lake and mountains en route. We reach Lake Phewa and enjoy a boat ride.

This afternoon we visit a Tibetan refugee camp and a local school before heading to Matepani monastery to watch the monks daily prayer.

Accommodation: Fish Tail Lodge
Meal: Breakfast

After breakfast, we take three and half hours drive to Galeshwor along the bank of Kali Gandai river and in between break for lunch. From Galeshwor our hike begins for Bans Kharka. It is about 3 hours ascend, crossing suspension bridge over world deepest gorge “Kali Gandaki river” through green forest and pasture land. Before heading to Bans Kharka we visit Galeshwor temple.

Galeshwor is a holy and sacred place revered by Hindus and Buddhists alike. There are Shivalinga, temples, shrines, altars, public shelters (dharmashala) etc, at this place. Every year during Nov-Dec pilgrims pay visit to this temple to celebrate Baikuntha Mela (fair) during the festival of Bala Chataurdashi.

Accommodation: Community lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day starts with hot breakfast and extends our trek to Nangi. It is about 6-7 hours walk from Bans Kharak which goes along beautiful villages with stunning views of mountains and impressive landscapes. We also visit organic farms, school and Magar settlement on this day.

If traveling anytime mid-November to mid-March we will be amazed to witness stunning views of orange orchards littered along the trails.

Accommodation: Eco-Community Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today’s trail goes through beautiful forests of Oak and Rhododendrons with magnificent views of mountains such as Mt. Fishtail, south Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Tukche and many more. During early to mid-Autumn trails and forest floor are adorned with myriad species of beautiful and fascinating looking mushrooms along with colorful wild flowers. In the evening we will observe glorious sunset view from Mohare hill station – you will feel like having a front-row seat, the view is quite breathtaking.  We spend the night at the eco community lodge.

Accommodation: Community lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We wake up early in the morning for sunrise view and crystal clear views of the mountain. Fishtail, Dhaulagiri I, Dhaulagiri II, Tukche, South Annapurna, Nilgiri and others, then followed with our leisurely after breakfast. Our trail today leads gradually up and down to Deurali pass. It is about 5 hours walk to reach Deurali passing Ghorepani .

Accommodation: Local lodge/Guest-House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

As the descent across the rhododendron forest, cultivated lands and a suspension bridge over Khumnu Khola, we arrive at the scenic & beautiful village of Ghandruk. Situated at an altitude of 2012 meters above sea level, Ghandruk is itself a viewpoint of Mt Annapurna, Mt Machhapuchhre and Himalchuli. Annapurna Ghandruk trekking is popular among those trekkers who love soft and short trekking. Several hotels and teahouses at the village give us a warm welcome with sincere Nepalese hospitality while catering to the requirements of all trekkers’ who hit the trail through this village!

Accommodation: Local lodge/Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today is the last day of our trek. Your trail descend to Nayapul about 4 hours walk following the trial paved by stones; we walk through some beautiful villages and rice field terrace.

After crossing Modi khola, you reach Birethanti. And then half an hour walk from Birethanti you arrive at Nayapool to catch your vehicle and drive to Pokhara.

Accommodation: Begnas Lake Resort
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

We hotel “Begnas Lake Resort ” is located 12 km east of bustling Pokhara town lies this wondrous paradise. Surrounded by pristine nature, just the ideal setting for our long-deserved escape to another world! We will enjoy pure, unadulterated nature. In this healing and life-nourishing environment, we can experience the Himalayan Nature Spa that offers a wide range of classical Ayurvedic activities such as Yoga, meditation, as well as soothing and rejuvenating massage conducted by an experienced team of Ayurveda experts. Swimming in the Begnas lake is something refreshing and great fun.

Alternatively, there are several interesting village trails crisscrossing the Begnas area offering possibilities of day hikes for us from 2-6 hours depending on one’s interest.

Accommodation: Begnas Lake Resort
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Note: All above mentioned activities at the resort are optional and can be booked with us in advance.

We’ll head to the airport after breakfast and take short flight from Pokhara to Kahmandu. During the 25 minute flight you’re treated to stunning views of the Himalaya, taking in the Annapurna, Ganesh, Mt. Nilgiri, and Manasulu. Seeing these enormous mountains from the air is an experience you will not quickly forget.

Our local representative meet us at the airport and transfer us to hotel. We spend your final day enjoying Kathmandu: shopping, eating, wandering the streets – whatever takes your fancy. Thamel has plenty of entertainment for tourists.

Accommodation: Hotel Yak & Yeti
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Transfer to airport for your homeward-bound flight.

Meal: Breakfast