Majestic Himalayas

Your Nepal adventure begins today with a private flight to Kathmandu, where you'll be welcomed to Nepal the following morning! Upon arrival, you will be met at the airport by a member of staff and transferred to your hotel, where you can relax and recover from your journey.

At 2,000 years old, the Swayambhunath Temple is said to be the oldest Buddhist stupa, and the panoramic view of the Kathmandu Valley is breathtaking. Durbar Square in Kathmandu is the heart of Nepal's traditional culture and art, home to numerous historic temples, palaces, and sculptures. Here you'll find the Hanuman Dhokha Palace, the Taleju Temple, the imposing Jagannath Temple, and the Kala Bharava statue. The Kastamandap Temple is said to have been built from the wood of a single tree. A trip to Patan, also known as Lalitpur, leads to the oldest of the three cities in the Kathmandu Valley, with its numerous Hindu temples and Buddhist monuments such as the Krishna Temple, the "Golden Temple" (Hirnaya Varna Mahavihar), and the Khumbeswar Temple. Each brick of the Mahabouda Temple is engraved with an image of Buddha, giving it the nickname "Temple of 1,000 Buddhas."

Tibetan monks in rust-colored robes wander along streets adorned with colorful flags, while pilgrims spin prayer wheels and stock up on yak butter and barley flour. Thousands of pilgrims arrive daily at the Boudhanath Stupa to perform religious rituals under the watchful gaze of the Buddha and to immerse themselves in the vibrant array of ceremonial objects during a stroll through the surrounding markets. The Pashupatinath Temple, dedicated to the god Shiva, on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River, is open only to Hindus, but from the eastern side of the river, numerous worshippers can be observed performing centuries-old rituals in the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. Bhaktapur, one of the three royal cities of the Kathmandu Valley, resembles a living museum of medieval art and architecture. Durbar Square, with its conglomerate of pagodas and temples surrounding the Fifty-Five-Window Palace, is one of the architectural gems of the valley.

The Changu Narayan Temple, situated on a hill at an altitude of 1,540 meters, is considered the oldest Hindu temple in Nepal. From there, the first hike, approximately two hours long, leads along unpaved but easy paths to Telkot. The picturesque village of Nagarkot, located at an altitude of 2,175 meters, offers a breathtaking view of the magnificent panorama of the 8,000-meter-high, snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas.

Today's hike through the rural surroundings of Nagarkot offers a glimpse into authentic and idyllic village life in Nepal. Wonderful views of the snow-capped peaks of Dorje Lhakpa and Shishapangma reward your efforts. If you're not yet tired and still feeling adventurous, you can optionally take another hike in the afternoon to the Nagarkot lookout tower (approx. 8 km - 3 hours).

The journey continues west along the road to Bandipur, leading into the heart of rural Nepal, where life seems untouched by time and follows a leisurely rhythm. A village visit along the way offers insights into the simple lives of the local people. The Trishuli River provides an opportunity to experience the unique natural landscape from an adventurous perspective on a gentle white-water rafting trip (optional, at an additional cost). The picturesque town of Bandipur sits atop a narrow mountain ridge at an altitude of 1,000 meters – the afternoon invites you to relax amidst the enchanting mountain scenery or to explore this charming, timeless town with its narrow lanes, traditional wooden houses, and friendly people at your own pace.

A breathtaking view of the surrounding mountain panorama at sunrise is the reward for the early hike to the Bandipur viewpoint and a special start to the day. Several beautiful lakes and a stunning panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks make Pokhara one of Nepal's most beautiful valleys with a magical and peaceful atmosphere. It also serves as a starting point for numerous mountain adventures, such as treks in the surrounding area. The snow-white Shanti Stupa (Shanti = peace) stands at an altitude of approximately 1,115 meters above the Phewa Valley and, in good weather, offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Pokhara, Phewa Lake, and the snow-capped peaks of the Annapurna mountain range. The four Buddhas, aligned with the cardinal directions, represent different phases of Buddha's life and serve as a reminder of the importance of peace among all races and religions throughout the world.

A boat trip on Phewa Lake offers a relaxing way to enjoy the stunning natural panorama in the morning. Pokhara's natural beauty is showcased at Devi's Falls and in the Seti River Gorge, where the interplay of water and rock creates a captivating spectacle. Perched on a nearby hill is the Bindhya Basini Temple, dedicated to Bhagwati, the guardian goddess of Pokhara, and offering breathtaking views of the Annapurna peak. Marvelous underworlds await discovery in the Ghupteshwar Mahadev Cave, one of the longest in South Asia.

Nayapul, at an altitude of 1,070 meters, is the starting point of your first trekking stage along the Modi and Bhurundi rivers to Tikhedhungga at 1,495 meters. There, all that remains is to relax amidst the unique natural landscape and take in the breathtaking scenery of seemingly endless bamboo forests, roaring waterfalls, and magnificent mountains – a well-deserved break.

Refreshed and invigorated, the hike continues today, steadily climbing to Ghorepani at an altitude of 2,850 meters, accompanied by breathtaking views of the Annapurna massif. Here, it's time to recharge and spend the rest of the day relaxing and reflecting on the stunning natural landscape of rhododendron and oak forests.

We'll set off early today (around 4:30 am), as Poon Hill, at 3,210 meters, is not only the highest point of your trek but also offers a unique sunrise, making it an unforgettable highlight of your trip. After a stop at the Gurung Hill viewpoint (approx. 3,125 meters), we'll descend gradually, although there are still a few uphill sections along the way. Your accommodation for the night awaits you in Tadapani at 2,590 meters – here you can rest and recharge for tomorrow's leg of the journey.

Rhododendron forests and extensive terraced fields dominate today's stage – the wild and romantic mountain scenery is complemented by the small Kimrong Khola river and remote villages along the way heading north. Crossing a narrow suspension bridge and passing several waterfalls, you'll hike to Chomrong at an altitude of 2,200 meters, where you can relax in the tranquil atmosphere and recover from today's exertions.

Today, you'll hike uphill along narrow paths through magnificent rhododendron and bamboo forests, crossing small rivers and streams like the Bamboo Khola and passing through small villages, until you reach Dovan at an altitude of 2,500 meters. To preserve the pristine mountain environment, the Annapurna region is subject to strict conservation regulations. This also means that accommodation is highly restricted, so from today onward, and for the next few days, you will be staying in a shared room.

A short acclimatization stage awaits you today – through the sacred forest of Panchhi Baraha with its shrine, the trail leads steadily uphill along the Modi Khola river to today's destination, Deurali, at an altitude of 3,200 meters. Along the way, the Hinku Caves offer a welcome opportunity for a short rest. The final section of the day's hike requires caution – due to winter landslides, the narrow path is more like a rough track.

At an altitude of 3,700 meters lies Machapuchare Base Camp, where your accommodation for the night awaits. After lunch, the afternoon continues with a further ascent to Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters. The trail climbs steadily along the Modi River, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks of the Annapurna massif. These unique vistas will make you forget the effort – the atmosphere at sunset is truly special. With these unforgettable memories, you will return to Machapuchare Base Camp.

Today's descent covers approximately 1,350 meters back to Bamboo, where you previously stopped for lunch. Here you can relax and recover from the descent.

From Chomrong, the route descends again today, mostly downhill, to Jhinu Danda at an altitude of 1,700 meters. Along the way, the viewpoint at Daula offers wonderful views of the surrounding mountains. In the afternoon, you can relax and unwind – or, optionally, take advantage of the nearby hot springs for even more relaxation.

Today's hike takes you through shady forests along the Mhodi Khola, with some minor ups and downs, and then along narrow paths and suspension bridges to Pothana at an altitude of 1,900 meters. Here you can enjoy the last views of Machapuchare – the mountain crowned with a double peak, also known as "Fishtail".

Don't miss one last sunrise to bid farewell to the magnificent mountain scenery before continuing your descent – ​​today you'll hike past villages and rice paddies to Phedi at an altitude of 1,170 meters – the culmination of your Himalayan hiking adventure! From here, you'll travel by car to Pokhara – the enchanting atmosphere of this magical place is the perfect way to end your Himalayan journey, allowing you to reflect on your experiences in peace – or, if you wish, to soothe your tired legs in one of the many spas and massage parlors (not included).

Start your day at a leisurely pace and enjoy a final breakfast amidst the enchanting mountains of Pokhara. Savor breathtaking views of the passing landscape on your return journey to Kathmandu. The rest of the day is yours to relax or explore on your own.

Depending on your departure time, you will have the day at your leisure before being transferred to the airport. From there, you will depart for your return flight home, filled with many new impressions. We wish you a pleasant journey home and hope to welcome you back as our guests again soon.