Trip Duration:
13 days
Recommended season:
October - November
March - April
Nepal - Trip Summary
A customized 13-day Nepal tour begins in Kathmandu, where we’ll explore the city’s temples and experience the traditional “Aarti” ceremony. We’ll enjoy an exhilarating rafting trip on the Trisuli River, followed by a drive to Pokhara at the foot of the Himalayas. Here, we’ll tour the city, take a boat ride on Phewa Lake, and embark on the famous five-day Poon Hill trek, offering breathtaking mountain views. The journey concludes with a visit to Chitwan National Park for various activities within the reserve. This custom Nepal tour provides a rich encounter with diverse cultures, religions, and breathtaking landscapes. With a private English-speaking guide and dedicated driver, this trip promises an unforgettable experience at your pace and style.
Nature Reserves • Himalayas • Temples
Day 1: Arrival - Kathmandu
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, we will meet our representative at the airport and transfer to the hotel.
Known for its rich history and cultural diversity, Kathmandu boasts a vibrant mix of ancient temples and modern hustle, offering visitors a unique glimpse into both the spiritual and everyday life of the Nepalese people. The city is also a gateway to the majestic Himalayas, making it a popular starting point for trekkers and adventurers.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Unveiling the Wonders of Kathmandu
After breakfast, we will embark on a city tour. Our first stop will be the Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, which features a complex of smaller temples and an impressive Buddhist stupa that dates back approximately 2,500 years. The site is named for the many monkeys that inhabit the area.
Next, we will visit Durbar Square, a historic area filled with ancient structures from the 12th century, including the royal palace and various temples. We will then continue to the grand stupa of Boudhanath and the Hindu temple complex of Pashupatinath, where cremation rituals take place.
Following this, we will explore the nearby city of Patan. Despite its proximity to Kathmandu, Patan is quieter and cleaner, with a stunning Durbar Square that often goes unnoticed by many tourists.
We will conclude the day by witnessing the traditional Aarti ceremony along the banks of the Bagmati River.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 3: Kathmandu - The Sacred Temples of Kirtipur - Chobar Gorge
After breakfast, we will embark on a day trip to Kirtipur, a town rich in Buddhist and Hindu temples. Here, we will visit several temples and engage with locals who maintain traditional lifestyles.
Next, we will continue to visit the Chobar Gorge, which channels the waters of the Kathmandu Valley. We will admire the canyon’s beauty and visit the nearby village of the same name, where we will explore the Dakshinkali Temple, dedicated to the goddess Kali.
After our visits, we will return to the hotel.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 4: Kathmandu - Pokhara
After breakfast and depending on the flight schedule, we will transfer to the airport for our flight to Pokhara. Nestled in the heart of Nepal, Pokhara is located near the Annapurna region of the Himalayas, with its stunning blue lake providing a picturesque backdrop.
Upon arrival, we will transfer to the hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.
Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 5: Pokhara and Surroundings
Early in the morning, we will embark on a drive to Sarangkot to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas, complemented by a short hiking excursion. After returning to the hotel, we will enjoy breakfast.
Following breakfast, we’ll explore Pokhara and its surroundings. We’ll take a boat ride on Phewa Lake, visit a Tibetan refugee camp, admire the stunning Davis Falls, and pay our respects at the Bindhyabasini Temple. We’ll also visit the International Mountain Museum and have some time to wander through the local bazaars.
Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 6: Pokhara - Poon Hill Trek
After breakfast, we will commence the Poon Hill Trek (5 days / 4 nights)
Trek Schedule:
Day 1: Pokhara to Nayapul, Trek to Tikhedhunga [1075m] – 4 Hours Walk
After breakfast, around 8:00 AM, we will drive approximately one and a half hours along the Baglung highway to the trailhead at Nayapul. From there, a 20-minute walk will take us to Birethanti, a bustling village filled with lodges, shops, and the permit check post for the Annapurna region.
We will begin our trek with a gradual ascent along the left bank of the Bhurungdi Khola. After leaving the river, we will follow a trail along the upper edge of terraced fields, passing through Hille until we reach Tikhedhunga.
Overnight at Tikhedhunga.
Meals included: Full board
Includes: Private guide and porter
Please note the altitude warning.
Day 7: Poon Hill Trek
Day 2: Trek to Ghorepani (2850m) – 5 Hours Walk
Breakfast will be served at 7:00 AM. From Tikhedhunga, the trail begins by crossing a stream on a suspension bridge. It then ascends a steep stone staircase leading to the large Magar village of Ulleri (2070m).
Above Ulleri, the trail gently climbs through pastures and cultivated fields, offering stunning views as it winds through rhododendron and oak forests. There’s a hut with water and a small campsite about an hour above Ulleri, known as Nangethanti, which will be our lunch spot. The term “Thanti” translates to “rest house” in Nepali.
In winter, the trail may be covered in snow. After lunch, we will continue for about an hour to reach Ghorepani (2850m). The name Ghorepani translates to “horse water,” serving as a crucial watering stop for the horses and mules carrying loads between Pokhara and Jomsom.
The trail from Ghorepani climbs southward through deep forests, eventually leading to a grassy knoll that provides magnificent mountain views, including glimpses of Machhapuchhare (which isn’t visible from Ghorepani Pass) and a panoramic view extending to the plains of India. The path continues along the ridge, climbing through pine and rhododendron forests to a height of 3030 meters, before descending to another pass called Deurali at 2960 meters.
Overnight at a local lodge in Ghorepani.
Day 8: Poon Hill Trek
Day 3: Early Morning Hike to Poon Hill for Sunrise / 2 Hours (Go and Back) – Trek to Tadapani (2540m) / 5 Hours Walk
Wake up early at 5:00 AM and begin your journey to Poon Hill (3195m), which takes about an hour. This early start is rewarded with unobstructed views of the sunrise over the majestic high Himalayas. You’ll be able to see numerous snow-capped peaks from Poon Hill, making it a highlight of the trek. After enjoying the sunrise, you’ll return to your camp for breakfast.
After breakfast, the trail leads down a ridge, initially hiding the mountains. The descent is steep and can be treacherous, following a narrow path alongside a stream. As you continue descending, you’ll encounter clear pools and a series of waterfalls cascading over boulders. The steep descent gradually becomes gentler, and you’ll reach Banthanti, where you’ll stop for lunch (approximately 1 hour).
From Banthanti, the trail follows the stream down to a bridge, where the ascent begins, leaving the moist mountain forests behind and entering a cane field. The path has some ups and downs before reaching the vantage point at Tadapani (2540m), which offers brief views of the mountains. Tadapani translates to “far water,” as the village’s water supply is located at a considerable distance, requiring porters more than half an hour to fetch a load of water.
Overnight at a local lodge in Tadapani.
Day 9: Poon Hill Trek
Day 4: Trek to Ghandruk (1940m) / 4 Hours Walk
After enjoying breakfast, we will begin our journey at 8:00 AM toward Ghandruk, which takes approximately 4 hours. The trek starts with a descent from Tadapani through the lush forests of Bhaisi Kharka and terraced fields. The trail steeply descends, navigating through forests and rocky terrain before crossing a stream.
As you continue your descent, you’ll pass over additional streams, eventually leading you out to a ridge overlooking Ghandruk. The views of Annapurna South from this vantage point are truly spectacular, and you’ll also catch a glimpse of Machhapuchhare in its iconic fish tail shape peeking over a forested ridge.
Ghandruk features a visitor center operated by ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project), which offers information about the area and its activities.
Overnight at a local lodge in Ghandruk.
Day 10: Poon Hill Trek - Return to Pokhara
Day 5: Trek to Nayapul / 4 Hours Walk and Drive to Pokhara (1.5 Hours)
After savoring the mesmerizing sight of Fishtail, Annapurna, and other Himalayan giants from the popular vantage point of Ghandruk, we will begin our trek to Nayapul. The journey involves descending towards Syauli Bazaar, and then continuing to Birethanti, a town stretched along the Modi River, known for its resourcefulness.
After approximately 25 minutes beyond Birethanti, we will reach the main road. Our vehicle will be waiting for us at Nayapul, and from there, we will drive back to Pokhara. In the evening, you will have free time to wander by the serene lakes of Pokhara, soaking in the beautiful surroundings.
Upon arrival, we will transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 11: Pokhara - Chitwan National Park
After breakfast and depending on the flight schedule, we will transfer to the airport for our flight to Chitwan National Park, located in the lowland Terai region of southern Nepal, along the border with India.
Chitwan Valley was once a favored hunting ground for the British and Nepalese nobility. After overcoming malaria outbreaks in the area, the locals discovered its agricultural potential, which significantly reduced the populations of tigers, rhinoceroses, and other wildlife. To combat this decline, the Chitwan National Park was established in 1964, making it the oldest national park in Nepal and one of the best places in Asia for wildlife viewing. However, spotting a tiger or rhinoceros still requires a bit of luck.
Upon arrival, we will transfer to the lodge. Lunch is included.
Later, we will embark on a guided tour of the park. (Shared Tour)
Dinner and overnight stay at the lodge in Chitwan.
Day 12: Chitwan - Kathmandu
After breakfast, we will embark on additional tours (Shared) in the Chitwan National Park.
Explore more of the park’s rich wildlife and unique ecosystem, possibly spotting various animals such as elephants, rhinos, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.
Later, we will transfer to the airport for our flight to Kathmandu.
Upon arrival, we will meet our representative and transfer to the hotel.
Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Day 13: Kathmandu - Departure
After breakfast, we will transfer to the airport according to your flight schedule for your return journey home.
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Travelers Testimonials
“Nepal in Luxury: A 5-Star Journey”
Nepal was an unforgettable experience—stunning landscapes, rich culture, and top-notch service. Our guides were knowledgeable and enthusiastic, the hotels in Chitwan and Kathmandu were excellent, and the drivers navigated the challenging roads with skill. With seamless flights and expert planning.Recommended by Orly & Amos Zur
“A truly wonderful trip”
A truly wonderful experience. Everything went smoothly, and the guides were excellent. Despite the strike, we had an adrenaline-filled motorbike adventure. The scenery, people, and planning were top-notch. Thank you for an unforgettable trip!Recommended by Bari
“A trip to remember”
An amazing trip from start to finish. The organization and service in India were exceptional, and the Nepali team did a great job too. A fantastic experience we’ll remember for a long time.Recommended by Orin
An Unforgettable Journey
A mesmerizing trip to India and Nepal, filled with culture, breathtaking views, and flawless planning by Naomi , making it unforgettable.Rona and Owen
“A Perfectly Tailored India Trip”
Our journey through India was fantastic! Every detail was carefully tailored to our needs—courteous guides, top-notch hotels, and an unforgettable cultural experience. The landscapes, food, and atmosphere made this trip truly special. A huge thank you for a perfectly planned adventure!Ayla Mann