Himalayan Explorer

Typical itinerary

1. Day 1: Depart UK

   Depart the UK on an overnight flight to Kathmandu.

2. Day 2: Arrive Kathmandu

   On arrival into Kathmandu, you will be collected from the airport and transferred to your hotel in the city. After time to relax, the group will later take a walk to the famous Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the evening, enjoy dinner at the hotel.

3. Day 3: Transfer to Pokhara

   After breakfast, transfer by private bus to Pokhara. The drive takes you through some splendid scenery, giving an insight into rural Nepal beyond Kathmandu.  Once you arrive into Pokhara, there will be time to relax at the hotel before a trek briefing later in the day.  Afterwards there should be some time to explore Pokhara, surrounded by magnificent mountain scenery. 

4. Day 4: Annapurna Trek Day 1: Pokhara to Tikhedhunga

   A scenic one-hour drive from Pokhara takes you to the trekking starting point. You will cross the suspension bridge over the Modi Khola River and then ascend slowly through terraced fields and mountain villages.  Along the way, encounter mule or goat caravans carrying supplies, distinctive by the musical bells they wear. The stunning peaks of Machhapuchare and Annapurna become visible over the green ridges en route to Tikhedhunga.

5. Day 5: Annapurna Trek Day 2: Gorepani Circular Walk

   Today, starts with a steep ascent, before a gradual incline to Ghorepani (2,570 metres). You will pass through delightful villages and see the beautiful rhododendron forests that are so characteristic of this part of the Himalayas.  On a clear day you can enjoy stunning mountain views from Ghorepani, making the challenging day’s trek well worth the effort! At Ghorepani you join the main Annapurna Circuit route, where impressive views of peaks and valleys stretch across to the Kali Gandaki River, and onto the famous Dhaulagiri massif.

6. Day 6: Annapurna Trek Day 3: Ghorepani to Tadapani

   For everyone staying at Ghorepani, it is a must to walk up to the stunning view point of Poon Hill (3,190 metres) which overlooks the village. Dawn is the best time to go, so you will have an early wake-up call and trek up the well-marked track by torchlight. Witness the spectacular sunrise at first light of dawn which illuminates Dhaulagiri and Tukuche Peak with the famous pink glow, before the sun slowly climbs up. It is an unforgettable view and well worth the early start. Return to Ghorepani for breakfast, before trekking to Tadapani through the rhododendron forests.

7. Day 7: Annapurna Trek Day 4: Tadapani to Ghandruk

   It is a relatively short day’s trek today, starting on a trail that contours the forested hillside, descending steadily with some steep downhill sections. Reaching the small settlement of Bhaisi Kharka, continue to descend until you meet the path following the Kyunri Khola. Crossing the stream, a short walk leads to Ghandruk through the northern edge of the village. Ghandruk (1,940 metres) is a traditional 'Gurung' village which has prospered recently thanks to returning Gurkha soldiers. From Ghandruk, dramatic views of the peaks of Annapurna South, Gangapurna, Hiunchuli and the famous Machhapuchre (Fishtail Mountain) open up.

8. Day 8: Annapurna Trek Day 5: Kimchee to Syauli Bazar

   The trek now heads down and passes various mountain villages, with the trail descending gradually at first on a wide flagstone-paved trail. Keeping to the contour of the ridge, you will descend slowly, passing through Kimchee (1,670 metres). The landscape suddenly becomes lusher and eventually the trail becomes steeper as you descend towards the valley.  During today’s trek, there is an opportunity to visit a natural hot spring along the way. The night will be spent at Syauli Bazar.

9. Day 9: Annapurna Trek Day 6: Nayapul to Pokhara

   The trek returns to the village of Nayapul then there is a short drive into Pokhara. There is then time to relax, shower and go out for a celebratory meal. The cafes and restaurants in Pokhara are the perfect way to spend time relaxing after your expedition.

10. Day 10: Transfer to Chitwan National Park

    Today you will leave Pokhara and transfer to Chitwan National Park, where you will be able to enjoy a series of wildlife activities in the company of local naturalists. Nepal’s most famous wildlife park, Chitwan is home to the elusive Bengal tiger, as well as leopard, various species of deer, sloth bear, crocodile, monkeys, the one-horned rhinoceros and a rich variety of birdlife.

11. Day 11: Chitwan National Park

    After breakfast, you embark on a walking safari lead by a local naturalist guide, to learn about the flora and fauna found in the national park. After lunch, there will be time to relax at the lodge and enjoy the surroundings before a presentation by the park authority on the ongoing conservation efforts to protect species found within the park.

12. Day 12: Transfer to Kathmandu

    A five hour drive takes you back to Kathmandu. En route, you will stop at the culturally important city of Bhaktapur, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The old city centre is home to some of the best-preserved temples and courtyards found in Nepal, and the city is well known for its rich artistic heritage, in particular wood, metal and stone artwork.

    After visiting Bhaktapur, the group returns to Kathmandu, and the rest of the day is free to relax before the evening dinner. 

13. Day 13: Kathmandu: sightseeing

    Today you will have the opportunity to explore the major historical, cultural & religious landmarks of Kathmandu: Pashupatinath (the holy Hindu temple dedicated to one of the Hindu trinity god and God of Destruction - Shiva and the cremation site), Boudhanath (revered Buddhist pilgrimage site, supposedly the biggest 'stupa' in the world influenced by Tibetan form of Buddhism) and Swayabhunatha (a.k.a. Monkey temple).

    Perched on a pedestal high on the hilltop, Swayabhunatha Temple is acclaimed as the oldest stupa in the world and is influenced by both the Nepalese and Tibetan forms of Buddhism, which attracts pilgrims from all around Nepal.  Kathmandu's Durbar Square is the oldest and most authentic part of modern Kathmandu with its centuries old temples, market squares and palace. You will round off the tour with a walk through the vibrant bazaars and night markets. 

14. Day 14: Fly back to the UK

    After an early breakfast, transfer to Kathmandu airport for the return flight to the UK.