Highlights of Nepal
Small Group Journeys

Highlights of Nepal

Discovering Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan and a short introductory tour to the Annapurna Sanctuary

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The Highlights of Nepal presents an enchanting exploration encompassing the breathtaking beauty of this diverse country. Carefully designed to encompass Nepal’s natural, historical, and cultural legacies, this itinerary unfolds a captivating journey. Beginning with a cultural exploration of Kathmandu, the journey traverses through the scenic lower Annapurna region for a easy trek to Ghorepani and Poon Hill, offering stunning vistas.

Experience tranquility in the lakeside haven of Pokhara, followed by an exhilarating wildlife safari at Chitwan National Park, immersing yourself in the captivating habitat of endangered species. This tour encapsulates the quintessence of Nepal, blending natural panoramas, thrilling adventures, cultural immersion, and an exploration of Nepal’s most captivating highlights.

The leisurely pace of hiking offers an invaluable chance to intimately connect with rural life in Nepal, fostering genuine interactions and a profound understanding of local culture. Encompassing the cultural richness of Kathmandu Valley and trekking through foothills adorned with villages, rolling hills, and terraced rice fields set against the backdrop of majestic snow-capped peaks, Nepal stands out as an unmatched haven for nature enthusiasts.

After a fulfilling three-day trek, immerse yourself in the serene charm of Pokhara Valley, renowned for its tranquil lakes, mysterious caves, and captivating attractions. Continuing southward, the expedition leads to Chitwan, a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. Here, engage in wildlife activities, culminating in an exhilarating conclusion to your Nepal holiday, filled with unforgettable experiences amidst the country’s natural wonders.

The Highlights of Nepal tour provides a well-rounded blend of cultural immersion, trekking adventures through stunning landscapes, tranquil moments in Pokhara, and wildlife encounters in Chitwan. This diverse itinerary caters to the interests of nature lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike.

Outline Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 2: In Kathmandu
Day 3: Fly to Pokhara
Day 4: Drive to Gandruk-Trek to Tadapani
Day 5: Trek to Ghorepani
Day 6: Hike to Poon Hill-Trek to Tikhedunga-Drive to Pokhara
Day 7: Fly to Chitwan
Day 8: In Chitwan
Day 9: Fly to Kathmandu
Day 10: Departure

Overview

cultural_tour Trip Type Culture Tours
Activities Included Activities Included
Activities Included Culture Tours
Accommodation Accommodation 3-4 star category hotels and resorts in cities and village lodge/tea house during the trek.
Meal Meal Only breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara, while all meals are included in Chitwan and during the trek
Best Seasons Best Seasons Through out the year except during the monsoon.
Route Route Kathmandu-Pokhara-Ghandruk-Tadapani-Ghorepani-Tikhedhunga-Pokhara-Chitwan-Kathmandu
  Best Months Best Months January, February, March, October, November, December

Good Months Good Months April, September

Lean Months Lean Months May, June, July, August

  • Visit world Heritage Sites in Kathmandu Valley.
  • Introduction to a gentle trek in the foothills with views of snow-clad peaks.
  • A glimpse of traditional Nepalese lifestyle.
  • Opportunity to meet and interact with locals from different ethnic groups.
  • Spectacular panoramic mountain views from Poon Hill.
  • Encounter a diverse range of flora and fauna along the way.
  • Explore the Jungle and Natural World Heritage site of Chitwan National Park.

Cost Information

Cost is based on group size to offer the lowest possible cost.

Included

  • All transfers by private vehicle.
  • Accommodation in 3-4* category hotels and resorts in Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan.
  • Accommodation in a Tea house lodge during the trek.
  • Only breakfast during the stay in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • All meals(breakfast, lunch, and dinner) in Chitwan and during the trek.
  • One welcome or farewell dinner with a cultural performance in Kathmandu.
  • English-speaking tour/trek guide throughout the trip.
  • 1 porter for every two trekkers during the trek.
  • Domestic airfare between Kathmandu-Pokhara-Chitwan-Kathmandu.
  • All sightseeing and monument entry fee.
  • Bottled mineral water in the vehicle.
  • All necessary paperwork and permits for the trek (TIMS/ACAP).
  • All government tax and service charges.

Not included

  • Nepal Visa.
  • International airfare.
  • Meals other than listed (lunches and dinner in Kathmanud and Pokhara).
  • Personal expenses (laundry, telephone, bar, beverages).
  • Tips and gratuities to guide, porter, and driver.
  • Travel medical insurance.
  • Trip cancellation cost due to your health, weather condition, political situation, and any other unforeseen events.
  • Any other expenses other than the listed above.

Detailed Itinerary

Expand All
Day 1:

Arrival in Kathmandu

Upon your arrival at Kathmandu International Airport, a Wind Horse representative will be waiting to greet you and facilitate your transfer to your hotel. Since no activities are scheduled for today, feel free to arrive at any time that is convenient for you throughout the day. Overnight in Kathmandu.

MEALS:
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 1350m
Day 2:

In Kathmandu

Today, you will visit three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Kathmandu Valley: Kathmandu Durbar Square, Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple.

At Kathmandu Durbar Square, you will explore the area around the former palace of the kings of Nepal, viewing various temples and monuments. Following the visit, you will drive to Boudhanath Stupa, the largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal. Here, you will circumambulate with pilgrims and visit the surrounding monasteries. Later in the afternoon, you will proceed to the holiest Hindu temple in Nepal, Pashupatinath Temple. The evening is free for you to shop for any last supplies or gear needed for your upcoming trek. Overnight in Kathmandu.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Altitude Altitude: 1350m
Duration Duration: 5-6hrs
Day 3:

Fly to Pokhara

This morning, you will drive to the domestic airport and take a flight to Pokhara. Our guide and vehicle will receive you at Pokhara airport and transfer you to your hotel in the Lakeside area. Upon reaching the hotel, you can rest and relax until lunch. After lunch, we will embark on a half-day tour around Pokhara, visiting Devis Fall, Gupteshwor Cave, Peace Pagoda, and the Lakeside area. Overnight in Pokhara.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Altitude Altitude: 822m
Duration Duration: 3-4hrs sightseeing
Day 4:

Drive to Ghandruk-Trek to Tadapani

The trek from Ghandruk to Tadapani not only offers stunning mountain views but also provides an opportunity to immerse you in the rich Gurung culture at Ghandruk village.

The drive to Ghandruk passes through charming villages like Nayapul, Lumle, and Kimche. In Ghandruk, you can take a leisurely stroll around the village and visit the Gurung cultural museum, and gain insight into the cultural heritage of the Gurung people.

After lunch, you will begin your trek towards Tadapani, the trek goes along with the magnificent views of Annapurna, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchre . Tadapani provides amazing view of Annapurna II, Annapurna III, and various other peaks. Overnight in Tadapani.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 2630m
Duration Duration: 3hrs drive/3-4hrs trek
Overnight Tea house
Day 5:

Trek to Ghorepani

The trail from Tadapani offers breathtaking views as it winds through lush forests of rhododendron. Descending from Tadapani, you will cross over the Bhurung Khola, pass through the villages of Banthanti and Deurali, before leaving the main trail toward the Annapurna Base Camp, heading towards Ghorepani.

Ghorepani is popular as the gateway to Poon Hill, famous for its panoramic views of the Himalayas during sunrise. It is also a popular stopover for trekkers undertaking the Annapurna Panorama Trek. Overnight in Ghorepani.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: Gorepani at 2874m
Duration Duration: 5-6hrs
Overnight Tea Houes
Day 6:

Excursion of Poon Hill & Trek to Tikhedunga-Drive to Pokhara

Before dawn, you will embark on an early morning hike to Poon Hill to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayan peaks such as Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Machhapuchre, Nilgiri South, and Annapurna I.

Once you’ve enjoyed the beauty of the sunrise and the panoramic vistas, you will descend back to Ghorepani for breakfast. After breakfast, you will hike downhill to Tikhedhunga where you will meet your vehicle and drive back to Pokhara. Overnight in Pokhara.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Altitude Altitude: Poon Hill at 3210m
Duration Duration: 3-4hrs hike/1.5hrs drive
Day 7:

Fly to Chitwan

Today you will take a domestic flight from Pokhara to Chitwan. Upon arrival at Bharatpur airport, a representative from the resort will receive and transfer you to the resort.

Later after lunch, you will have the chance to explore a local Tharu village, which includes a visit to the Tharu Museum. The Tharus are indigenous to this area, and their culture is distinctive, different from what is commonly found in Nepal or India.

This short visit will provide you with an opportunity to delve into their culture, traditions, and way of life, offering insights into their unique heritage. Following the village tour, you will return to the resort, where you can unwind and enjoy the scenic views from the deck area. Overnight in Chitwan.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 415m
Day 8:

In Chitwan

With an early breakfast, you will go for a Jeep Safari through the wilderness of Chitwan National Park. This safari offers you an opportunity to spot a variety of wildlife species indigenous to the region, including dears, sloth bears, Asiatic rhinoceroses, and elephants, leopards and even the Bengal tiger if you get lucky.

Return back to resort for lunch, following lunch you will go for a Patela boat ride down the Rapti River. This scenic boat ride allows you to observe aquatic birds, Gharials, crocodiles, and other wildlife residing along the riverbanks.

As a part of the exploration, you will also take a short jungle walk to visit the Crocodile Conservation Center. This visit offers insights into the conservation efforts made to protect the endangered species.

Later in the evening, you will have the chance to witness a Tharu Stick Dance performed by members of the Tharu Tribe, followed by a barbecue dinner. Overnight in Chitwan.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 415m
Duration Duration: 5-6hrs
Day 9:

Fly to Kathmandu

Following breakfast, a representative from the resort will escort you to Bharatpur airport for your flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arriving in Kathmandu, a Wind Horse representative will be present at the airport to meet you and facilitate your transfer to the hotel. The rest of the day is yours to spend at leisure, allowing you to relax and explore at your own pace. Overnight in Kathmandu.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Day 10:

Departure

Transfer to Kathmandu International Airport for your departure flight back home.

MEALS:
Breakfast

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Overview

cultural_tour Trip Type Culture Tours
Activities Included Activities Included
Activities Included Culture Tours
Accommodation Accommodation 3-4 star category hotels and resorts in cities and village lodge/tea house during the trek.
Meals Meals Only breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara, while all meals are included in Chitwan and during the trek
Route Route Kathmandu-Pokhara-Ghandruk-Tadapani-Ghorepani-Tikhedhunga-Pokhara-Chitwan-Kathmandu
Max Group Size Max Group Size 2-8
Best Seasons Best Seasons Through out the year except during the monsoon.
Best Months Best Months January, February, March, October, November, December

Good Months Good Months April, September

Lean Months Lean Months May, June, July, August

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