The Annapurna Region

ARRIVE KATHMANDU

It is a panoramic thrill flying into Kathmandu on a clear day. The emotions conjured up by the views of snow-capped mountain peaks sprawling down below you are almost ecstatic, beginning a whole chain of memorable experiences that will stay with you for a long, long time. A RAW Travel representative and driver will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. The representative will help you check into your designated hotel and brief you about your upcoming daily activities.

KATHMANDU EXPLORATION

Kathmandu is the historical and cultural heart of Nepal and home to some of the most revered temples in both the Buddhist and Hindu community. The city presents a wonderful mix of Hinduism, Tibetan Buddhism and Western influence. There will be a guided tour to Boudhanath, the largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal, before continuing on to the most popular Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, Pashupatinath. We take a tour to Patan or Lalitpur (the City of Artisans), which is 5km away from Kathmandu. We walk through Patan Durbar Square, and delight in the architectural wonders of Malla era. Mahaboudha Temple, Kumbeshwor Temple, Krishna Temple and Golden Temple are the major attractions at the square.

Meals: B

FLY TO POKHARA

Today you take the short but scenic 30-minute flight to Pokhara, enjoying the views of Ganesh, Manaslu and the Annapurnas along the way. With majestic sights of snow-capped mountain peaks and tranquil lakes, Pokhara’s beauty is sure to have you mesmerised. The afternoon is free to explore Pokhara or relax before your hike tomorrow.

Meals: B

TRANSFER TO SHYAULI BAZAAR (3 HOUR DRIVE) AND TREK TO GHANDRUK (3 HOUR TREK – 1940M)

After breakfast at the hotel, we take a one-hour leisurely drive to Naya Pul along the graceful Modi Khola Valley. On reaching Naya Pul, we take a local vehicle to Shyauli Bazaar avoiding having to walk along jeep roads that are not particularly interesting. On reaching our destination, we begin our highly panoramic Annapurna trek.

We trail along terraced fields beneath the awe-inspiring, glaciated Himalayan mountain ranges. On passing a succession of flatlands, forest, cultivated lands and a suspension bridge over Khumnu Khola, we arrive at the beautiful village of Ghandruk. The ancient village offers glimpses of time-honored ancient cultural traditions along with a vantage point that offers breathtaking views of Annapurna South, Gangapurna, Annapurna III, Machhapuchhare and Hiunchuli. The Gurungs are the ethnic group that live here and will welcome us with warmth and sincere hospitality. They have been called a ‘martial tribe’ by the British, and are well known for their bravery as Gurkha soldiers in the British, Indian and Nepal armies.

Meals: B, L, D

TREK GHANDRUK TO CHHOMRONG (5-6 HOUR TREK – 2210M)

Our path this morning starts out fairly flat as we make our way through small villages, fields and farmland before descending steeply to the Kimrong Khola river. The afternoon will have us taking a long, steep, sustained climb up towards our destination for the night.

Meals: B, L, D

TREK CHHOMRONG TO TADAPANI (5-6 HOUR TREK – 2540M)

Today we descend further along a trail that showcases rich rhododendron forests, glorious, cascading mountain streams and other mystical vistas of nature. You may be lucky to spot a ‘langur’ (white monkey) along the way. After continuously climbing for 3 hours, we step on the territory of Tadapani at an altitude of 2540m. Tadapani offers the most magnificent mountain views of the overpowering peaks of Annapurna South.

Meals: B, L, D

TREK TADAPANI TO GHOREPANI (6 HOUR TREK – 2880M)

This morning we depart Tadapani and proceed down a steep, sustained descent, mainly on stairs. We are blessed with scenery of majestic snow-capped mountain peaks, lush vegetation and rich plant life. We climb through rhododendron forests to Deorali (3100m) and reach a hamlet and cultivated fields and grazing pastures. Don’t forget to look up as we may see eagles and vultures soaring above.  We continue walking for approximately 3 hours before reaching Ghorepani.

Meals: B, L, D

TREK GHOREPANI TO TIKHEDHUNGA VIA POON HILL (5 HOUR TREK – 1540M)

A very early start this morning as we climb up to Poon Hill view point (3210m) to witness the warm, golden light of sunrise as it spreads across the dramatic mountain ranges. After savouring the mesmerising sight of Dhaulagiri massif, Tukuche Peak and other Himalayan giants, we leave Ghorepani and start to make our way towards Tikhedhunga and our accommodation for the night.

Meals: B, L, D

TREK TIKHEDHUNGA TO HILLE AND TRANSFER TO POKHARA VIA NAYA PUL (40MIN TREK, 3 HOUR TRANSFER)

Today we make our way towards Hille, where we will meet our driver and head back to our accommodation in Pokhara. The rest of the day is yours to relax, explore or maybe seek out a well-deserved massage!

Meals: B, L

FLY POKHARA TO KATHMANDU

After a flight back to Kathmandu, we will transfer you to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure. Tonight you will be treated to a special farewell dinner and cultural show.

Meals: B, D

DEPART KATHMANDU

You will be transferred to the airport today for your onward journey.

Meals: B

*Subject to availability