Day 01:
Arrival and Transferred to the Hotel [1300 m/4264 ft] Upon your arrival in the Kathmandu airport (TIA) you will be greeted by a representative from Himalayan Glacier Trekking. After completing your custom formalities (Visa, etc) pick up your luggage and look for our representative with a Himalayan Glacier Trekking display board at the arrival gate. You will be then transferred to Hotel Shanker or a similar category hotel. After check in, you can take a rest, hang around in the city, visit our office - it all depends upon your interests and condition. In the evening we will organize a Welcome Dinner at an excellent traditional Nepalese Restaurant where you will enjoy a Nepalese cultural program as well as a fine meal. Overnight at Kathmandu. Included meal: Breakfast (B) |
Day 02:
KTM Sightseeing Tour: Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath, Swayambhu, Boudhanath Today, after breakfast, we start a guided tour to four of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu. Kathmandu Durbar Square holds the palaces of the medieval Kings who ruled over the then Kathmandu Kingdom. Pashupatinath houses a sacred lingum, or the phallic symbol of Lord Shiva. The AryaGhat alongside Pashupati and on the banks of the Bagmati River is a famous funeral site for the Hindus. The Buddhists shrine of Boudhanath is one of the largest stupas in the world, and one of the holiest Buddhist pilgrimage and tourist destinations in Kathmandu. The area of Boudhnath is also famous for over 50 Tibetan Gompas or monasteries. Swayambhu meaning the "the self-existent" is popular among the foreigners as the Monkey Temple owing to the large number of monkey population residing in the area. Included meal: (B) |
Day 03:
Sightseeing Tour: Patan, Bhaktapur, Kapan Monastery We start our tour of two more UNESCO World Heritage Site cities adjacent to Kathmandu: Patan & Bhaktapur after taking our breakfast today. Then a visit to a Buddhist Monastery neaby Kathmandu. Patan: Patan is also known as "The City of Fine Arts". Patan Durbar Square is one of the places in the Kathmandu Valley where the medieval arts and architecture still remain in its original state. The Durbar Square is full of ancient places, temples and shrines, noted for their exquisite carvings, mostly the Hindu and Buddhist monuments.
Bhaktapur: The medieval town of Bhaktapur, or the Town of the Devotees, preserves medieval arts, architecture, culture, and lifestyle to this date. One is sure to feel like travelling back into the past while walking along the Bhaktapur thorough fares, squares and streets.
Kapan Monastery: Kapan Monastery at Kapan Hill, a few kilometers higher north from Boudhanath is also known as Nepal Bouddhist Mahayan Centre. Kapan Monastery follows Gelug tradition of Tibetan Mahayana Buddhism under the guidance of Lama Zopa Rinpoche. There is also a nunnery nearby the main monastery, known as the Khachoe Ghakyil Ling Nunnery, home to about 400 nuns. Included meal: Breakfast (B) |
Day 04:
Drive to Gorkha and tour there the old King Palace and overnight at Bandipur Today, we make a 5 hrs drive to the old capital of Nepal, Gorkha, about 125 km north-west of Kathmandu. Gorkha is the ancestral home of the Shah kings of Nepal, and also the birthplace of King Prithvi Narayan Shah, the founder of modern Nepal. The Palace, or Gorkha Durbar, is situated on a hill overlooking the snowy peaks of the Himalayas. The palace is also one of the most outstanding examples of Nepalese architecture. In the afternoon, we drive to Bandipur. Bandipur is a historic town near Gorkha which also offers excellent views of many highest mountains, including the Annapurnas. overnight at Bandipur (B) |
Day 05:
Day 5: Drive Bandipur to Pokhara Today, we get out of Bandipur and take a 60 kilometer drive to Pokhara. Pokhara, also nicknamed as the Lake City, is not only Nepal's but one of the most beautiful places on earth. The town offers magnificent views of Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Machhapuchhare, five peaks of Annapurna and others. Pokhara's numerous lakes, known as 'Tal' in Nepali, offer fishing, boating and swimming. Pokhara is also the gateway for trekking in the Annapurna Region. After arriving Pokhara, we make a sightseeing trip to some of Pokhara's marketplaces, old bazaars, and landmarks. In the evening, explore the surrounding lakeside areas. Overnight at Pokhara. (B) |
Day 06:
Trek Starts: Pokhara - Naya Pul-Ulleri [2050m/6725ft]: 1 hrs drive and 6 hours trek Today we drive to Naya Pul to start our trek. From Naya Pul we follow the south bank of the river. After several hours we will pass through sub tropical valley forests, sometimes on the carved trail on the side of the cliff. After lunch, we cross the Modi Khola river via a suspension bridge to the village of Tikhedhunga. We trek further along the trail quite steep at times. We reach Ulleri by late afternoon for overnight. (B, L, D) |
Day 07:
Ulleri to Ghorepani [2750 m/ 9020 ft]: 4-5 hrs trek We make our ascent to the Ghorepani village. The name Ghorepani in Nepali means horse-water owing to its role as an important campsite for traders before it became a trekker's stop. Ghorepani is an interesting place with small shops and stalls for selling local products and craft. The town has two parts: one in a saddle and the other a few hundred feet lower. We stop at the higher part of the Ghorepani town that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains including Annapurna South and Nilgiri mountains. Since Ghorepani lies quite higher than our previous stop, we begin to feel the chilly weather especially in the evenings. (B, L, D) |
Day 08:
Ghorepani - Poon Hill - Tadapani [2700m/8,860 ft]: 6-7 hrs trek To catch the magnificent splendor of sunrise over the Himalayas, we make an early morning climb along the steep trail to the viewpoint of Poon Hill (3200mtrs). Poon Hill (3,210m/10,529ft) is a great viewpoint from where we will be able to enjoy wonderful panoramic views of the Mustang part and Pokhara valleys including the closest views of more than 20 highest mountains including the close-up views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The snowy peaks of the high mountains loom above and around us glowing in the morning light. After taking photos and having some coffee, tea or hot chocolate, we return back to Ghorepani. After breakfast, head east and climb a nearby ridge. Descend through rhododendron forest, pass by small mountain villages and spectacular waterfalls along the way to Tadapani.(B, L, D) |
Day 09:
Tadapani to Chhomrong (2170m/7120ft): 6 hrs trek From Tadapani, we make a steep descent through the dense and dark forest. The route passes through the west bank of the Modi Khola. Then we descent steeply down the village of Chuile coming over to the Kimrong Khola. Then a steep climb continuing up to Chhomrong. Towering above the village is the mighty peak of Annapurna South, with the Fishtail Mountain (Machhapuchhare) facing it across the valley. Chhomrong is a beautiful village located on the lap of giant Annapurna massive. Overnight in Chhomrong. (B, L, D) |
Day 10:
Chhomrong to Dovan (2580m/8460ft): 6 hrs trek We head out of Chhomrong along the Modi Khola leaving behind inhabited foothills into the high step and wooded slopes of Himalayas. We cross the suspension bridge then trek up to Sinuwa Danda. The ascent from Sinuwa becomes somewhat flatter. The trail passes through thick & dark rhododendron forest up to Khuldighar. Then the track passes through deep bamboo and rhododendron forest to the village of Dovan. (B, L, D) |
Day 11:
Dovan to Deurali (3230m/10,595ft): 4 hrs trek The day starts with gentle gradual ascend following the trail above the river through a thick bamboo, oak and rhododendron forests up the side of the canyon. We cross two streams over small bridges. The trail passes through solitary places. The nature's wilderness gives piece to our mind. There is also the possibility of seeing a variety of species of wildlife such as wild pig, deer, snow leopard, etc. Overnight in Deurali. (B, L, D) |
Day 12:
Deurali to MBC (3700m/12135ft): 3-4 hrs trek Today we start our trek to Machhapuchre Base Camp (MBC). The trail climbs gently through a river bed and then it rises steeply over the mountain side. There are also avalanche prone areas at some point on the trail. After about half an hour's walk from Deurali, we will find ourselves in middle of river bed surrounded by giant snow-covered mountains. When the sun rises, the snow on mountains shine and river valley is filled with warm sun rays. The hike to MBC is somewhat strenuous but the unfolding views of the majestic Machhapuchre are certainly a rewarding experience. Overnight in MBC. (B, L, D) |
Day 13:
MBC to ABC (4,130m/13,545ft): 2-3 hrs trek On the way to ABC from MBC, the vegetation disappears. We will see the snow boulders melting and forming small streams. The path widens as we enter the Sanctuary, follows a stream, and then climbs to a few huts alongside a moraine. There are sensational views of the near-vertical south face of Annapurna towering above the sanctuary. Annapurna Base Camp sanctuary boasts of a dynamic view without anything impeding panorama of the 360 degrees. The Machhapuchre, Annapurna south, Annapurna I, Hiuchuli and other peaks. Climax of our trip almost ends today. Overnight in Annapurna Base Camp (4130m/13550ft). (B, L, D) |
Day 14:
ABC to Bamboo (2310m/7575ft): 6 hrs trek We wake up at ABC and savor the magnificent sunrise over the Himalayas. Today, we start descending from ABC to MBC, Deurali, Dovan and finally to Bamboo. Heading back down to the valley is must easier than climbing up. Waterfalls cascading down the 500 foot granite faces on both sides to the forest below and great views of Fishtail and Hiuchuli are today's attraction. Overnight in Bamboo. (B, L, D) |
Day 15:
Bamboo to Jhinu Dada (1760m/5770 ft): 6 hrs trek From Bamboo we trek back to Sinuwa and then descend to Lower Chomrong. Then ascend on the thousand stony steps taking us to Upper Chomrong. From Chomrong we take a different route and instead of going to Ghandruk, we descend to Jhinu Danda. We get opportunity to enjoy hot springs lying just a 15-min walk from Jhinu Danda. Overnight in Jhinu Dada. (B, L, D) |
Day 16:
Jhinu Dada to Naya Pul to Pokhara: 6 hrs trek 1 hour drive We trek from Jhinu danda to New bridge and then to Kyumi village. After lunch we trek to Sayali bazar and then down to Birethanti. From Birethanti, a half-an-hour's trek takes us to Naya Pul. The trek ends at Naya Pul. From Naya Pul we take a vehicle and reach Pokhara in about an hour. We might take opportunity to visit some more places around Pokhara until evening. Overnight in Pokhara. (B, L) |
Day 17:
Drive to Lumbini and stay overnight We drive to Lumbini today about 290 kilometers south-west from Pokhara which takes for about 6-7 hours. We bid goodbye to the Himalayas in Pokhara, and head toward a more flat lands of Nepal's Terai. Generally, the weather gets hot and humid in the plains except in the winter. Perhaps, Lumbini is the most important Buddhist pilgrimage site, the place where Buddha was born. In case we reach Lumbini around the sunset time, we can stroll in the local market to have a glimpse into the local lifestyle. Overnight at Lumbini. (B) |
Day 18:
Drive to Chitwan National Park After morning sightseeing at Lumbini, drive to Chitwan, about 180 kilometers from Lumbini and 5 hour's drive. After checking in to the hotel and getting refreshed you will be briefed about full nature programs by our nature guide. Then we head on for activities. There will be a guided village walk and a walk on the banks of the Rapti River to watch the charming sunset views in the sub-tropical jungle. In the evening, dinner with cultural program by ethnic tribal people with their stick dance and tribal drums. Overnight at Chitwan. (B, L, D) |
Day 19:
Full Day at Chitwan National Park including Jungle Safari The Chitwan National Park has been declared by the UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Today you will discover why the National Park holds an important place in preserving the wild lives that are rapidly getting extinct from this planet. You're almost sure to spot egrets, woodpecker, and deer in their natural habitat. The Park is also home to rhinoceros, tigers, leopards, sloth bears, wild bison, gangetic dolphin, 500 birds, butterflies, as well as the near extinct Gharials crocodiles. You can do a number of activities here - an elephant safari, a nature walk, bird watching, a jungle drive or a canoe trip. You may even take a bath with an elephant and learn how to wash your elephant! Don't forget take a video of your elephant-bath which will be one of the fondest memories of the lifetime. Overnight at Chitwan. Included meals: (B, L, D) |
Day 20:
Drive to Kathmandu After breakfast, we start our 185 kilometers drive back to Kathmandu. Better to hold on the left pane of the vehicle to enjoy the sceneries through the route. It would be an upward journey along the winding road that we came by. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to Hotel Shanker or a similar category hotel. There is nothing to do but trade emails with travel companions and organize the photos. You can spend the evening leisurely, perhaps catch up on some last minute shopping and celebrate dinner together with Himalayan Glacier Trekking staffs. Overnight at Kathmandu. (B) |
Day 21:
Leisure and Shopping, Farewell Dinner Day Also a reserve day to accommodate possible delay. Spend the day enjoying Kathmandu's delights. Make a last minute sightseeing of any place in Kathmandu. You will find plenty of interesting places to visit and things to do even near the hotel area. Moreover, you would also like to discuss your trip or trade emails with travel companions and organize the photos. Or, You can spend the evening leisurely, perhaps catch up on some last minute shopping. In the evening, and celebrate dinner together with Himalayan Glacier Trekking staffs. Overnight at Kathmandu. (B) |
Day 22:
Fly Home: Farewell Friend You are saying good bye to the mountains as your holiday tour of Nepal comes to an end today! We hope you enjoyed the tour with us, and we are sure you will be back for a trip to Himalaya again. Approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight a representative from Himalayan Glacier Trekking will transfer you to the airport. On your way home you'll have plenty of time to plan your next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal. (B) |
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