Walking Odyssey
Walking through Nepal's scenic villages
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10 Days
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Trekking -
Walking Tours -
Culture Tours -
Village Tours -
Easy
Overview
Costs
Included
Itinerary
Trip PhotosWalking Odyssey: A Cultural and Scenic walking tour of Nepal
Embark on a transformative 10-day walking odyssey through the heart of Nepal, where each step reveals a rich tapestry of vibrant cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and timeless traditions. This thoughtfully curated journey harmoniously blends the dynamic energy of Kathmandu with the serene beauty of the Annapurna foothills, the tranquil allure of Pokhara, and the preserved heritage of Bandipur.
Designed for travelers seeking both adventure and cultural immersion, this walking odyssey offers a balanced pace of exploration and relaxation. Your journey begins in Kathmandu, where ancient temples and bustling markets coexist. Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath Temple, and the historic squares of Patan and Bhaktapur, immersing yourself in the city rich spiritual ambiance and intricate architecture.
Leaving the urban landscape, venture into the lower Annapurna region, where the rhythm of life slows amidst terraced fields and rhododendron forests. Trek to picturesque villages like Ghandruk and Landruk, where traditional Gurung culture thrives, and panoramic views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchare await. Continue your journey to the Australian Camp and Pothana offering 360-degree vistas of the surrounding mountains.
Descend to the tranquil city of Pokhara, where you’ll have a free day with no scheduled sightseeing activities. The city’s laid-back atmosphere offers a perfect respite after days of trekking. You can use this time to rest and relax by the serene lakeside or explore the city at your own pace.
Next, travel to Bandipur, a hilltop town that feels like a step back in time. Stroll through its traffic-free cobblestone streets, lined with preserved Newari architecture, and engage with locals to savor traditional cuisine and soak in panoramic views of the Himalayas and surrounding valleys.
This walking odyssey through Nepal offers more than just a physical journey; it’s an immersion into the soul of a nation. From the spiritual ambiance of Kathmandu’s temples to the serene beauty of the Annapurna foothills and the timeless charm of Bandipur, every moment is crafted to provide a deep connection with Nepal’s heritage and natural wonders.
Highlights of Walking Odyssey
- Kathmandu’s Cultural Tapestry: Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites and vibrant markets, immersing yourself in Kathmandu’s rich spiritual ambiance.
- Ghandruk: Gateway to the Annapurnas: Trek to Ghandruk, a picturesque Gurung village offering panoramic views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchare.
- Landruk and the Path to Australian Camp: Descend to Landruk and continue through lush forests to Australian Camp, renowned for its 360-degree panorama of the Annapurna range.
- Pokhara – The City of Lakes: Relax in Pokhara, enjoying tranquil lakes, mountain vistas, and cultural sites like the World Peace Pagoda and Gupteshwor Cave.
- Bandipur – A Living Museum: Journey to Bandipur, a hilltop town preserving Newari heritage with cobblestone streets, traditional cuisine, and Himalayan views.
- Return to Kathmandu: Conclude your adventure in Kathmandu, reflecting on your journey or shopping souvenirs.
Why choose this Walking Odyssey:
- Cultural Immersion: Experience Nepal’s diverse cultures, from the bustling streets of Kathmandu to the traditional villages of Ghandruk and Bandipur.
- Scenic Diversity: Traverse through terraced fields and dense forests to serene lakes and majestic mountain vistas.
- Balanced Pace: The itinerary offers a harmonious blend of trekking and leisure, ensuring both adventure and relaxation.
- Authentic Experiences: Stay in local teahouses, engage with communities, and partake in traditional practices, offering a genuine taste of Nepali life.
- Accessible Adventure: Designed for travelers with moderate fitness levels, this tour provides the thrill of trekking without the challenges of high-altitude expeditions.
Walking Odyssey Outline Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 2: Fly to Pokhara & Drive to Ghandruk
Day 3: Trek from Ghandruk to Landruk
Day 4: Trek from Landruk to Australian Camp
Day 5: Trek from Australian Camp to Phedi & Drive to Pokhara
Day 6: Free day in Pokhara
Day 7: Drive from Pokhara to Bandipur
Day 8: Drive from Bandipur to Kathmandu
Day 9: Free day in Kathmandu
Day 10: Departure
Overview
Trip Type
Walking Tours
Activities Included
Accommodation
3-4* category hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara while village lodges/tea houses during the walking tour
Meal
Breakfast and dinner included
Best Seasons
All year round, best during Spring and Autumn season, but not advisable during the monsoon season.
Route
Kathmandu-Ghandruk-Landruk-Australian Camp-Pokhara-Bandipur-Kathmandu
Cost Information
Included
- All transfers by private vehicle.
- Accommodation in listed or similar category hotels in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Bandipur.
- Accommodation in basic tea house lodge during the trek with attached toilet where possible.
- Breakfast and dinner at the staying hotels and lodges.
- English-speaking licensed trek/tour guide through out the trip along with porter (1 porter for every 2 pax).
- Domestic airfare from Kathmandu-Pokhara.
- All sightseeing and monument entry fee as per the itinerary.
- All necessary paperwork and permits for the trek (ACAP/TIMS).
- Bottled mineral water in the vehicle.
- All government tax and service charges.
Not included
- Nepal Visa.
- International airfare.
- Meals other than listed (lunches).
- Personal expenses (laundry, telephone, bar, beverages).
- Tips and gratuities to Guide, 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 AllArrival 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.
Altitude:
1350 m
Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara & Drive to Ghandruk
Take a morning flight to Pokhara and from Pokhara begin your walking odyssey with a scenic drive to Ghandruk, passing through villages such as Nayapul, Lumle, and Kimche. Ghandruk is a charming Gurung village, renowned for its traditional stone houses and rich cultural heritage. While in Ghandruk, take a leisurely stroll around the village and visit the Gurung cultural museum, and gain insight into the cultural heritage of the Gurung people. Overnight in Ghandruk.
Altitude:
2010 m
Duration:
25 min flight/3 hrs drive
Tea house
Trek from Ghandruk to Landruk
The trail descends steeply through terraced fields and lush rhododendron forests towards the Modi Khola River. After crossing the suspension bridge, it is a steady ascent along stone steps leading to Landruk. Landruk, perched at around 1,640 meters, offers unique perspectives of the valley and panoramic views of Annapurna South and Machapuchare.
Immerse yourself in the local culture by exploring traditional homes and interacting with the locals. Overnight in Landruk
Altitude:
1640 m
Duration:
4-5 hrs
Tea house
Trek from Landruk to Australian Camp
Departing from Landruk, your journey goes through lush rhododendron forests and meticulously terraced hillsides. The trail ascends gently, guiding you past Pitam Deurali, a renowned viewpoint. From here, you’re treated to breathtaking vistas of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli
Continuing onward, you’ll arrive at the charming village of Pothana, celebrated for its scenic beauty and rich cultural tapestry. This popular rest stop offers a glimpse into the local way of life amidst the backdrop of the Himalayas.
From Pothana, the trail transitions into a relatively flat path meandering through verdant woodlands to Australian Camp. Australian camp provides you with a stunning 360-degree panorama of the Annapurna range, featuring majestic peaks such as Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, and Lamjung Himal . Overnight in Australian Camp.
Altitude:
2050 m
Duration:
4-5 hrs
Tea house
Trek from Australian Camp to Phedi & Drive to Pokhara
After breakfast, embark on a scenic descent through lush rhododendron forests and terraced fields. The trail leads you to the picturesque village of Dhampus, known for its traditional Gurung culture and panoramic mountain views.
Continuing downhill, navigating a series of stone staircases that wind through the lower Dhampus region, and eventually bringing you to Phedi. At Phedi, board on to the waiting vehicle and drive back to Pokhara. Upon arrival, spend the rest of the afternoon by relaxing by the serene Phewa Lake, or exploring the lakeside markets and cafes. Overnight in Pokhara
Altitude:
822 m
Duration:
Approx. 2 hrs trek/1 hr drive
Free day in Pokhara – Rest & Relax
Today is a free day in Pokhara with no scheduled sightseeing activities. You can take this time to simply rest and relax, enjoying the serene lakeside atmosphere, or choose to explore the city on your own.
For those looking for a bit of adventure, there are a wide range of exciting outdoor activities such as paragliding, bungee jumping, zip lining, ultralight flights, or even a short hike to nearby viewpoints. Feel free to tailor the day to your interests. Overnight in Pokhara
Altitude:
822 m
Drive from Pokhara to Bandipur
Today, embark on a scenic drive to the hilltop village of Bandipur—one of the highlights of this Hilltops and Villages tour. Perched above the Pokhara–Kathmandu highway near Dumre, Bandipur is a beautifully preserved Newari town that feels like a living museum.
Wander through its cobbled streets lined with 18th-century architecture, traditional Newari homes, and charming cafes. The vibrant facades and intricate woodwork reflect the rich cultural legacy of the Newar people.
In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxed walk to a nearby viewpoint offering sweeping views of the Annapurna, Langtang, and Dhaulagiri ranges, along with the verdant valley below. Overnight in Bandipur.
Altitude:
1030 m
Duration:
3 hrs
Drive from Bandipur to Kathmandu
Today marks the final day of your Walking Odyssey as you journey back to Kathmandu from Bandipur. The drive follows the scenic Trishuli River, winding through lush valleys, terraced hillsides, and picturesque countryside.
Along the way, you’ll witness lush valleys, terraced fields, and the distant majesty of mountain ranges, providing a fitting end to your unforgettable Nepal walking odyssey. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Altitude:
1350 m
Duration:
4-5 hrs drive
Free day in Kathmandu– Rest & Relax
Today is set as a free day, giving you the freedom to rest and recharge at your hotel or explore the city at your own pace. You may choose to wander through the bustling local markets for souvenir shopping, enjoy a relaxing café visit, or explore nearby sites on your own.
If you are interested, you can also request an optional full-day guided tour of Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Altitude:
1350 m
Departure
Transfer to the airport in time for your departure flight.
Trip Photos
FAQs
- How active is this trip and who is it suitable for?
This is a gentle-paced walking tour through scenic villages and cultural highlights, involving light to moderate walking—typically a few hours each day on mostly flat or gently rolling paths with some uphill and downhill sections too. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy regular, relaxed outings and don’t require high-altitude trekking.
- What level of accommodation and meals are provided?
- 3–4* hotels in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Bandipur
- Teahouse-style lodges during village walks—comfortable and cozy, with basic amenities.
- Daily breakfast and dinner are included throughout your journey, while lunches are excluded giving you the freedom to choose according to your taste and pace.
- Is this tour customizable or only available as a group?
This tour can be arranged as a private departure on your preferred dates, and we can customize it based on your preferences. Whether you’d like a different daily pace, additional cultural excursions, or special lodging arrangements, just let us know and we’ll tailor it to your needs.
- Will we have any free or unstructured time?
Yes! You’ll enjoy leisure time in Pokhara, where you can relax by the lake, explore on your own, or opt for activities like a boat ride on Phewa Lake, a hike to the World Peace Pagoda, or any other optional excursion that interests you.
- What makes the Walking Odyssey unique?
- A seamless blend of cultural immersion and scenic walking through traditional Himalayan villages.
- Breathtaking mountain panoramas from the Annapurna foothills.
- A thoughtfully balanced journey featuring cultural sightseeing, light nature hikes, and moments for reflection and relaxation.
Overview
Trip Type
Walking Tours
Activities Included
Accommodation
3-4* category hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara while village lodges/tea houses during the walking tour
Meals
Breakfast and dinner included
Route
Kathmandu-Ghandruk-Landruk-Australian Camp-Pokhara-Bandipur-Kathmandu
Max Group Size
Any number of participant
Best Seasons
All year round, best during Spring and Autumn season, but not advisable during the monsoon season.