Learn about Nepal's rich cultural, natural, and spiritual heritage on this 10-day highlight tour of Nepal. Start your journey in Kathmandu, a bustling city with numerous UNESCO-listed landmarks. Explore the intricate stupas, historic temples, and thriving markets. From Kathmandu, travel to Pokhara, a haven of tranquility and the gateway to the legendary Annapurna trekking circuit. Take a short, easy hike through thriving villages and oak and rhododendron forests. See the spectacular views of Annapurna South and Machapuchre Peaks. Experience Gurung culture and tradition in Ghadruk and taste authentic Nepali cuisine with cultural dances from different ethnic groups. Interact with local people and learn about culture and history; discover the old local markets in your secret exploration.
Highlights
Discover Kathmandu's UNESCO Heritage sites
Wander through ancient temples and bustling bazaars
Travel to Pokhara, gateway to Annapurna trekking circuit
See how serene Phewa Lake mirrors the surrounding peaks
Taste local Nepali cuisine with cultural dances from different ethnicities
Observe the Gurung culture and tradition in Ghandruk
Activities that provide a reasonable level of physical challenge and elevate the heart rate. Focused on more active pursuits including multisport tours. Travelers may be active 5-7 hours total each day. Recommended for travelers with active lifestyles.
Welcome to the Himalayan country of Nepal. Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, meet a representative who will welcome you and assist with the transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu.
Take some time to refresh and settle in. In the evening, transfer to a typical Nepalese restaurant in the heart of the city for a welcome dinner. During the meal, you will receive a briefing regarding your trip and the itinerary ahead.
After breakfast, head to Pashupatinath Temple, known as the largest Hindu religious complex in Nepal. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this site holds profound significance from spiritual, historical, and artistic perspectives. Following lunch, travel to Patan Durbar Square, which served as the seat of the medieval royal palace of Patan until the mid-19th century. The square is flanked by majestic monuments that recount esoteric legends and fascinating historical events. Finally, visit the Swayambhunath Stupa. Situated at a high vantage point, this site offers a commanding panoramic view of the valley and the city of Kathmandu below.
Early in the morning, board a tourist bus for the drive from Kathmandu to the Pokhara Valley. This journey takes you through the beautiful Nepalese countryside before arriving at Pokhara Lakeside.
Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel in Pokhara. Spend the rest of the day exploring the surrounding lakeside areas at your leisure.
After breakfast, take a one-hour drive to Nayapul to begin the trek. The trail starts with a walk to Birethanti, a large and prosperous town situated beside the Modi River.
From here, follow the main trail up to Sudami and climb gradually up the side of the valley. You reach Hile (1,495 meters) before pushing on to your final destination for the day, Tikhedhunga.
Overnight at a local mountain lodge.
Elevation: 5,173 feet / 1,577 meters
Distance: 1 hr drive and approximately 4 hours walk
After breakfast, prepare for a long uphill journey. The trek begins with a steep ascent on stone steps leading to Ulleri Village, surrounded by amazing landscapes and Himalayan scenery.
Continue the pleasant trek through forests of rhododendron and oak. After a few hours of walking with several breaks, you arrive at Ghorepani. Here, enjoy fantastic views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Himalayan ranges.
Overnight at a local mountain lodge.
Elevation: 9,350 feet / 2,850 meters
Distance: Approximately 5- 6 hours walk
Day 6: Sunrise Hike to Poon Hill | Trek to Tadapani
Today, start very early in the morning for a 40-minute hike up to Poon Hill. A brilliant viewpoint provides you with an unobstructed sunrise over the high Himalayas and a wide range of panoramic scenery from the far western Himalayas of Dolpo, Mt. Dhaulagiri, and Annapurna, including Mt. Machhapuchre (Fish Tail) and Manasalu. After a fun morning of hiking and spectacular views, head back to Ghorepani for breakfast before continuing to Tadapani for the night.
Overnight at a local mountain lodge
Elevation: 2,540 m / 8,332 ft
Distance: Approximately 6 - 7 hours walk
Day 7: Trek to Ghandruk | Traditional Gurung Village
After breakfast, trek to Ghandruk, a traditional Gurung village in the foothills of the Annapurna. Here, observe the local Gurung traditions and lifestyle
Begin the day with a one-hour hike to conclude the trekking portion of the adventure. From the endpoint, board a vehicle and drive back to Pokhara for the overnight stay.
Early in the morning, depart for the drive back to Kathmandu. The 5-6 hour journey takes you through the beautiful Nepalese countryside. Upon arrival in the city, transfer to the hotel.
Spend the rest of the day relaxing or exploring the surrounding areas at your leisure. In the evening, join a Nepali family for a special dinner.
Elevation: 4,264 feet / 1,300 meters
Day 10: Return Home
1 Breakfast
Today is free for last-minute shopping for souvenirs or gifts for family and friends. Alternatively, use this time to commence any extra trips or activities you have booked.
When it is time for your flight, transfer to the International Airport for your departure to your onward destination.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
Initial deposit is 35%, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 70 days (10 weeks) prior to departure by bank transfer, check, or credit card. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and a maximum of $20,000 charge
Beyond expectations! Then again we weren't sure what to expect. Lovely stay at the lodge, met other like-minded travelers (many had their trips planned by Adventure Life) and the owner was a gracious hostess. It felt like you were one happy family, visiting with a favorite aunt.
