Cultural Immersion & Soft Trekking In Nepal

10 Nights - 11 Days

Kathmandu (3N), Pokhara (1N), Annapurna Region Trek (4N), Dhulikhel (2N)

Overview

Nepal offers splendid experiences to travelers who are seeking an immersive holiday in one of the most spectacular settings on Earth. Wander through the bazaars, temples, monasteries and cobble stoned-streets of ancient villages and towns, and then head off on a 05-day trek to sacred, jewel-like mountain peaks offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Dive into Nepalese mountain life by living in wonderful lodges set up in most pristine location around Annapurna range. Explore the rich cultural history and architecture of the ancient cities of Patan and Bodhnath. The rich cultural and spiritual fabric of Nepal, and the warm hospitality of its people, create an awe-inspiring appreciation for life’s simplicity.

  • Adventure

    Adventure

  • Trekking

    Trekking

  • Community

    Community

  • Mountain Retreat

    Mountain Retreat

Detailed Itinerary
Platinum Journeys

Day 1 ARRIVE KATHMANDU

Day 2 IN KATHMANDU

Day 3 IN KATHMANDU

Day 4 KATHMANDU – POKHARA

Day 5 POKHARA – TREK TO MAJGAON (1400M)

Day 6 TREK TO LANDRUK (1565M)

Day 7 TREK TO GHANDRUK (2012M)

Day 8 IN GHANDRUK (2012M)

Day 9 GHANDRUK – POKHARA – KATHMANDU – DHULIKHEL

Day 10 IN DHULIKHEL

Day 11 DHULIKHEL – DEPART KATHMANDU

Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: ARRIVE KATHMANDU
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Meeting and assistance on arrival at Kathmandu International Airport
Platinum guests receive a VIP jet-bridge greeting at Kathmandu International airport. An Airport Representative will meet you at the Aerobridge, and fast track you through immigration and customs. A Platinum by Trans India representative will escort you to the hotel and will arrange for immediate check-in.

Check-in at Dwarika’s Hotel (Junior Suite)

Nestled amid the highest range of mountains in the world, Nepal is a popular travel destination in the Sub continent. Besides the view of the Mt. Everest, the country lures tourists with picturesque views, heritage sites, sacred shrines, trekking and other delights.

Overnight at Dwarika’s Hotel (Junior Suite)

Day 2: IN KATHMANDU
  • iconBreakfast

Early morning, transfer to Kathmandu Airport to board Everest flight (Window seat is guaranteed)

The Mountain flight gives the best opportunity to get the closest and the best view of Mount Everest (8,850m) and other mountains such as; Shisa Pangma (8,027m), Cho Oyu (8,188m) and Lhotse (8,516m). The flights operate every morning from Kathmandu airport which fly at an average altitude of 6,500-7,000m. Circling Mount Amadabalm to enter the Khumbu valley, you will be almost five nautical miles from the highest peak in the world - Mt. Everest. This flight usually lasts for about an hour.

Later proceed for city tour of Kathmandu visiting Durbar Square

Kathmandu Durbar Square – The durbar square with its arrays of temples, courtyards, monuments and the ancient palaces of the former Nepali Royals is located in Basantapur in the heart of Kathmandu city, the country’s capital. Chief attractions here include Hanuman Dhoka Royal Palace, the magnificent Taleju Temple towering more than 40 meters; Kumari Ghar, the residence of the Living Goddess, Kumari; the temple of Ashok Vinayak dedicated to lord Ganesh (elephant headed deity), and Kal Bhairav, the God of Wrath.

Afternoon excursion to Patan

Patan – this ancient city founded in the 03rd century is typically Nepalese and famous as the city of arts. Visit Durbar Square, Hiranya Varna Mahavira, Krishna Mandir, Min Nath Temple, the Ashoka Stupa and Tibetan Refugee camp where handicrafts are manufactured.

This evening, meet a renowned Sherpa who has led several expeditions to Mount Everest "Why did you want to climb Mount Everest?" "Because it's there" - George Mallory The world’s highest mountain has never failed to allure adventurous souls since Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay’s first successful ascent in 1953. With around 400-600 people making it to the summit of Everest each year, today climbing Mountain Everest is a pinnacle of ones mountaineering career. This evening meet a successful expedition leader who has conquered Mount Everest several times in last decade.

Overnight at Dwarika’s Hotel (Junior Suite)

Day 3: IN KATHMANDU
  • iconBreakfast and Dinner

Breakfast at hotel

Morning sightseeing tour of Kopan monastery, Boudhnath and Swayambhunath

Kopan – Located on a hilltop, Kopan Monastery was founded by Lama Yeshe, who died in 1984, leading to a search for his reincarnation. The search led to young Spanish boy, Osel Torres who was declared to be the reincarnated lama, these series of events inspired Bernardo Bertolucci to direct popular film – Little Buddha. Visitors are welcome to explore the monastery and every year several people come here to study Buddhist psychology and philosophy.

Boudhnath – This colossal Buddhist Stupa was built by King Mana Deva for his sins and is one of the biggest in the world.

Swayambhunath – over 2,000 years old, this is one of the world's oldest Buddhist Chaityas. It is situated 05km west of Kathmandu and is a pilgrimage centre for Buddhists and Hindus alike.

Afternoon join a workshop for Thangka painting with a Buddhist Monk

Thangkas are stunning Buddhist scroll paintings; they are highly colorful, intricately painted, and include borders and curtains of rich hand-dyed silks. These historic and irreplaceable paintings are used as tools of teaching and meditation and are extremely important cultural heritage objects in Buddhism. The master artist will guide you with the basics and will let you create a masterpiece based on your vision. The orientation by master depends on the queries you have; questions are welcome. They will help you to understand the ideas for drawing paintings and will describe the story behind it.

Traditional 16 course Nepalese Dinner at Krishnarpan Restaurant

The Krishnarpan restaurant located at the Dwarikas hotel in Kathmandu, is perhaps the world’s most famous Nepalese cuisine restaurant. Dining here is a culinary journey through the finest of Nepalese flavors, Krishnarpan is a slow dining experience reminiscent of the ritual feasts enjoyed by the Kathmandu Valley's Newari community. Meals range from six to twenty two courses and are prepared using the freshest vegetables from the Dwarika's own farms. The courses are offered on traditional brass and earthenware, and served by hostesses representing Nepal's diverse ethnic communities.

Overnight at Dwarika’s Hotel (Junior Suite)

Day 4: KATHMANDU – POKHARA
  • iconBreakfast and Dinner

Breakfast at hotel

Morning transfer to Kathmandu Airport to board flight for Pokhara
Platinum guests are booked in Business class on Domestic flights where available. On sectors with Economy class seating only, Platinum guests are booked in front row seats with extra leg room with an enhanced luggage allowance.

On arrival, proceed for boat ride on Lake Phewa

Phewa Lake is the center of attraction in Pokhara. It is the largest and most enchanting of three lakes that add to the resplendence of Pokhara. The boat ride gives you the opportunity to marvel at the picturesque mountain peaks surrounding Pokhara and also gives you the opportunity to visit the Barahi Temple, the most important site of Pokhara, that is situated in the middle of the lake.

Check-in at Tiger Mountain Lodge (Cottage)

Perched 1,000 feet above the Pokhara Valley with a spectacular Himalayan backdrop, you lodge provides a perfect haven, the essence of tranquility. Ideal for guests pre and post-trek, or for those wishing to take day walks exploring local communities, bird-watching, gentle exercise, or just to relax in a typical Nepalese rural setting.

Overnight at Tiger Mountain Lodge (Cottage)

Day 5: POKHARA – TREK TO MAJGAON (1400M)
  • iconBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Breakfast at lodge

Upon start of trek, you will be given safety instructions for the trek and then you will proceed by road (approximately 01 hour drive) with guide and porter to Lumle, your trek start point.

On arrival at the village of Lumle situated at an altitude of 1610m, begin one and a half hour walk to the Gurung village Majgaun.

After some 45 minutes, you will arrive at the village of Chandrakot situated at an altitude of 1580m / 5200 ft.

From this village, there are spectacular views of Annapurna South, the sacred and unclimbed Fishtail Mountain or Machhapuchhare as it is locally known. From Chandrakot, the walk takes you through a forested area along a well-worn trail for a further 45 minutes to your lodge. From the lodge, there are sweeping views of the mountain range.

After lunch at the lodge there will be an optional walk through the old village of Majhgaun to see day to day traditional village life.

Reminiscent an old tea plantation, the lodge comprises a handful of traditional Gurung houses dotted around a delightfully well-kept garden, on the edge of Majhgaon village. It’s a short drive from Pokhara to the closest road head, followed by an hour’s climb. But at 4,620 feet altitude, the real attraction is the amazing views of surrounding peaks and valleys. There are total of eleven neat and well-decorated guest rooms, all with high-ceilings, and arched windows, all boasting very nice attached bathrooms (a rarity in these parts). Showers have plenty of hot water. To beat the night cold, down jackets, warm hats, hot water bottles and gloves are provided.

You can expect the star treatment from Jit and his staff, all happy to meet your needs—including massages for those with aching muscles. This is also a great spot for yoga. As the sun rises and sets, there’s no better view of Fishtail. The small village of Tanchok, amid the nearby millet fields, are also well worth a walk around, to see the traditional stone-built houses with their log beehives and drying corn.

Overnight at MLN Lodge (Standard Room)

Day 6: TREK TO LANDRUK (1565M)
  • iconBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Breakfast at lodge

Today, you will trek for about 04 hours with comfortable stops in between much time is spent contouring round and through pretty villages including Tolkha at 1700m that have remained unchanged for centuries.

In the afternoon you can explore the surrounding area which is also situated near to the honey cliffs made famous by the honey hunters. You can witness this collection at certain times of the year.

Check-in at La Bee Lodge (Standard Room)

Landruk lies on the opposite side of the Modi Khola Valley from Ghandruk—meaning you have to walk down, cross the suspension bridge, and back up. Half way up the mountainside, the freshly built La Bee lodge is a crescent of green and white terraced bungalows in classic Nepalese style. Twelve contemporary and comfortable rooms are furnished with twin beds, modern, black-slate ensuite bathrooms, and terraces with jaw-dropping Annapurna views. Design features include parquet wood floors, bedside up-lights, and vaulted, rafted ceilings.

The pleasures at La Bee Lodge are simple: A fireside gin and tonic in a cozy dining room with picture windows; a delicious chef-made meal; being woken by the happy clink of a tea tray at your door, and the pink morning glow on the Himalayas; breakfast at a sunny outdoor table; yoga amid neat gardens with views that will capture your heart.

In Spring and Autumn, visitors gather to witness honey-hunting locals in their daring collection of wild nectar from beehives on perilous cliff faces in the deep Modi Khola. The harvest ritual, which varies from community to community between Landruk and Ghandruk, begins with a prayer and offering of flowers and rice. Then a fire is lit at the base of the cliff to smoke the bees from their honeycombs. From above, a honey hunter descends the cliff harnessed to a ladder. Repelling some very territorial bees, the brave honey hunter cuts chunks of honey from the comb and sends them down the ravine by the bucket. Such is the cost of sweetness in these parts.

Overnight at La Bee Lodge (Standard Room)

Day 7: TREK TO GHANDRUK (2012M)
  • iconBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Breakfast at lodge

After breakfast, leave for Landruk where Buffaloes and goats graze in the surrounding fields and you may have to make way for the donkey and mule trains that convey goods to and from the Gurkha settlements. You may also meet some of the trekkers coming down from or heading up.

The trail descends steeply to the banks of the Modi River. You’ll then cross a strong suspension bridge to the opposite banks of the Modi. From here is it about 2hrs trek up switch backs and steps to reach the village of Ghandruk. It is from this lodge that there are magnificent close up views of the surrounding mountains - Annapurna South, Annapurna 1, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and the Fishtail.

Check-in at Ghandruk Lodge (Standard Room)

Set atop the village of Ghandruk, the most culturally rich and fascinating settlement in the area, this friendly and dependable 18-room property offers altitude, superb views of mountains and terraced fields and plenty of roaming wildlife. From here, some continue on to Annapurna Base Camp. The rooms in the lodge are immaculate, spacious and welcoming.

After a day’s hike, you’ll be glad to step into a large shower with plenty of hot water, and a comfortable bed, piled with thick blankets and duvets. The hot water bottle placed in your bed while you are still dining assures you a cozy bedtime. The first thing you notice on arrival at Himalaya Lodge (besides the friendly dogs that come to welcome you) is your proximity to the massive peaks of Annapurna South and neighbor Hiunchuili.

The mountain views here are some of the most spectacular in Nepal. Grab a lounger and take in the sunset at happy hour with a few Gorkha beers. For those headed higher, this will be your last luxe stop for a few days. It is the homeland of the Gurung people, who after centuries wandering Mongolia, Tibet and China, established themselves in the Annapurnas 1,500 years ago. With a culture of courage, bravery and integrity, the Gurung comprised the core of the British Army’s fierce Gurkha regiment.

Nowadays, this welcoming town of 5,000 includes Hindus, Brahmin, Chhetri, Magar, Damai, Kami and Saarki people. On a stroll through its cobbled streets you’ll explore shops, teahouses, home farms full of children, horses and chickens, a small museum, and a monastery - the source of the daily chanting you can hear all over town.

Overnight at Ghandruk Lodge (Standard Room)

Day 8: IN GHANDRUK (2012M)
  • iconBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Breakfast at lodge

Wake up this morning with tea and coffee served in the garden and watch the sunrise over Annapurna South, Annapurna 1, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and the Fishtail.

After a relaxing breakfast and the glorious views from the Himalaya Lodge, your guide will take you on an exploration of this mountain village and the surrounding countryside. Ghandruk was once a major recruitment centre for the famous Gurkha soldiers. The women of Ghandruk maintain a local industry of weaving traditional Nepalese rugs.

Overnight at Ghandruk Lodge (Standard Room)

Day 9: GHANDRUK – POKHARA – KATHMANDU – DHULIKHEL
  • iconBreakfast

Breakfast at lodge

After breakfast, depart from Himalaya Lodge and walk through the village of Ghandruk. You may also meet some of the trekkers coming down from or heading up to the Sanctuary itself.

Continue descending for about 03 hours until we reach Shauli Bazaar. From here, follow along the Modi River until reaching MLN lodge, Birethanti. You will have lunch at the lodge & walk 01hr to Nayapul. This is where we meet our vehicle.

From New Bridge, drive to Pokhara by car (approximately 01 hour and 30 minute drive)

Transfer to Pokhara Airport to board flight for Kathmandu
Platinum guests are booked in Business class on Domestic flights where available. On sectors with Economy class seating only, Platinum guests are booked in front row seats with extra leg room with an enhanced luggage allowance.

On arrival, transfer to your resort in Dhulikhel and check-in at Dwarika’s Dhulikhel (Executive Suite with Attached Terrace)

Located about an hour’s drive away from Kathmandu, in the foothills of the Himalayas, Dwarika's is an all-Suite resort in Dhulikhel. The charming resort offers unparalleled 360 degree views of the Langtang range of the Himalayas. The rustic-chic décor, hillside setting, sincere Nepali hospitality and fragrant cuisine create a warm Nepalese atmosphere. The resort has three distinct restaurants that use fresh ingredients grown in Dwarika’s local farms.

Amenities range from an infinity swimming pool, a cozy bar and a hilltop lounge to a library and a meeting room. On-site well-being and recreational activities include yoga, meditation, pottery and mandala making and Himalayan rock salt therapy.

Overnight at Dwarika’s Dhulikhel Resort (Executive Suite with Attached Terrace)

Day 10: IN DHULIKHEL
  • iconBreakfast

Breakfast at resort

Day free for independent activities

Take your holistic lifestyle to a new level at Dwarika’s Resort. The Shangri-la setting reconnects the body, mind, and spirit based on ancient Vedic philosophy and Buddhist medicine. Ayurvedic doctors as well as yoga and meditation masters provide guidance for personalized well-being. Rejuvenate in a variety of unique signature spa treatments. Walk the meditation maze, rebalance in the chakra sound chambers, and cleanse your aura in the crystal house. Express and find yourself in the pottery, painting, and cooking classes. Nourish yourself with the organic meals sourced from the resort’s own farms.

Overnight at Dwarika’s Dhulikhel Resort (Executive Suite with Attached Terrace)

Day 11: DHULIKHEL – DEPART KATHMANDU
  • iconBreakfast

Breakfast at hotel

Morning at leisure

Afternoon transfer to Kathmandu International Airport for your flight home
Platinum guests receive a VIP departure assistance at Kathmandu International airport with a friendly meet and greet host who provides luggage assistance, expedited security check and immigration.

 

Platinum Journeys