From Misty Valleys to Snowy Peaks
Itinerary
Days 1-3 – Old and new in Kathmandu
Wander between temples draped with prayer flags fluttering in the wind, explore ancient cobbled backstreets and soak up the spiritual atmosphere of Kathmandu. Eye-opening and sometimes overwhelming, you’ll find something fascinating on every corner, with the snow-tipped Himalayas towering over all. You’ll spend two nights getting to know Kathmandu, where children play amidst the curling smoke of funeral pyres and monkeys run riot over hilltop temples. From sacred stupas to steaming momos and scenic rooftop bars, it’s a city full of surprises.
Days 3-7 – Trekking across the edge of the valley
You’ll travel by private car from Kathmandu to the starting point of your trek. The journey should take around an hour depending on traffic. Trek between tiny villages with snow-capped backdrops in the Kathmandu Valley, watching prayer flags flutter in the breeze and local life unfold around you. You’ll hike through bright green fields and thick forests, staying in welcoming hotels with distant Himalayan peaks all on sides. At the end of the trek, you’ll arrive in Bhaktapur, a medieval town steeped in mystical atmosphere and scattered with panoramic rooftop cafes. It’s a great way to get a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the Kathmandu Valley.
Days 7-8 – Peaceful Pokhara
Back in Kathmandu after your trek, you’ll stay another night in the same hotel. The next day you’ll take the bus to Pokhara. All you’ll need to do is make your own way to the bus station as we’ll organise your tickets in advance. The departs around 8am and the journey to Pokhara takes about 9 hours. Relax in peaceful Pokhara, where snowy peaks reflect in the calm waters of the Phewa Lake, prayer flags flutter and Buddhist chants seep from every doorway. It’s a laid-back place with a fairytale feeling, dozens of ramshackle, arty cafes and an endless list of adventures in store. Take a white knuckle rafting trip, paraglide over the rippling lake or rent a boat and paddle through the tranquil waters, surrounded by the Himalayas on all sides. After a day spent exploring, stretch out in the sunshine on the shoreline and let it all sink in. Pokhara feels tinged with magic, making it very hard to leave.
Days 8-14 – Annapurna peaks and mountain villages
The next day you’ll be driven from Pokhara to Nayapul where you’ll begin your trek. The drive is only around an hour. Trek towards snow-dusted peaks and sleep in timeless mountain villages in the beautiful Annapurnas. Catch sunrise over the high Himalayas, pass colourful mule trains and feel deliciously lost in the mountains. Climb up twisting stone staircases etched into the hillside and take sunny breathers. This trek covers part of the world-famous Annapurna Circuit, giving you a taste of the total route in just under one week. You’ll stay in basic lodges, climb from forests and green fields into a world of bare, rocky peaks and meet the locals in tiny, tucked-away villages.
Days 14-16 – Pokhara & Kathmandu
At the end of your trek you’ll be driven the one hours drive back to Pokhara. Next, you’ll spend another 2 nights in Pokhara, giving you the perfect opportunity to rest your weary legs. After your 2nd night you’ll catch the bus back to Kathmandu. We’ll organise the tickets in advance, all you’ll need to do is make your own way to the bus station. The bus leaves around 8am and the journey takes about 9 hours. You’ll spend a final night in Kathmandu before making your own way back to the airport the following day for your international flight home.
Accommodation
For this itinerary we offer the following options
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