At a Glance
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Venture on an inspiring discovery into Nepal’s Annapurna Trails and Chitwan on this 13 days Himalayas expedition. It includes a 6-day lodge to lodge trek into the Annapurna Trails as you enjoy the comforts of carrying just a day pack with full porterage. Traverse the most picturesque villages in the region including Birethanti, Landruk, Majgoan and Gangruk as you stay in comfortable mountain lodges. Delve into the jungle paradise of Chitwan for sublime wildlife encounters from jeep safari to birdwatching walks.
Your adventure begins in Kathmandu where you’’ll explore remarkable landmarks including the UNESCO sites of Boudhanath and Kathmandu Durbar Square. Journey to Pokhara for an orientation walk where you’ll stay at the foot of the Annapurna Range in preparation of your trek. Day 4 see’s you beginning your thrilling lodge ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- All breakfast 8 x lunches, 7 x dinners
- 5 nights accommodation on a twin share basis from luxury resorts to comfortable mountain lodges
- Welcome drink and snack in each Mountain Lodges on trek
- Tips for local staff
- Named tour leader, chosen for their expertise and great customer feedback
- Transport and listed activities
- One internal flight
- Arrival and departure airport transfers
- Trek pack including a daypack, walking stick, rain poncho, souvenir hat and scarf
Itinerary
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Arrive in Kathmandu, the most populous city in Nepal and the capital of the country, which is also known officially as Kathmandu metropolitan city. Be greeted with a complimentary welcome transfer to your 5 star hotel. You’ll stay at the charming Hotel Yak & Yeti, situated in Durbar Marg, the vibrant city centre of Kathmandu Valley. A prime location, explore the former Royal Palace that is only a few minutes' walking distance. Take a refreshing dip in the picturesque pool, laze by the sun terraces or pamper yourself with a massage at the spa (at own expense). This evening, gather together with your leader for your trip briefing ahead. |
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After a hearty breakfast this morning, there is the possibility for adventure enthusiasts who are eager to jump into the air on an exhilarating sightseeing flight around Everest; reservations for this activity can be arranged locally through your tour guide on Day 1. During the later part of the morning, we will leave the hotel and begin our sightseeing tour of Kathmandu. Our first stop for today will be the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Boudhanath where you will get to see the Buddhist stupa with its enormous mandala. The Boudhanath Stupa is one of the largest spheres in Nepal in the globe. Standing at a lofty 36 metres, the location is nothing short of enchantment, with mysterious symbols and intriguing energies lurking around every corner. The noon sets in with a refueling lunch amidst fascinating views of the stupa. Continue on to the Kathmandu Durbar Square, one of the three royal palace squares located in the Kathmandu Valley and a site that has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Despite the shattering damage caused by the earthquake in 2015 to the Kathmandu Durbar Square, the various palaces, temples, and courtyards created in the Newari style still hold a high level of intrigue amidst the disaster. Spend time exploring the lively markets of Asan Tol. Awaken your senses from smell to sights from food and spices to clothing and gadgets, all of which can be found in the Asan Bazaar. To end a perfect day, simmer into the bustling nightlife that is the Thamel district. Here, you’ll experience Kathmandu's nightlife and is filled with an array of restaurants, cafés and live music. Today, you will receive a full trip briefing for your walking adventure ahead. |
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This morning we have an early departure from Kathmandu and will be driving to Pokhara, a picturesque lakeside resort located at the foot of the Annapurna Range. The ride can be difficult at times due to ongoing road expansion construction along the route as well as some bumpy conditions in certain locations; nevertheless, once you have climbed the hill out of Kathmandu city, the erupting vistas that unfold from here on promises to be a worthwhile diversion from the bumpy road. The trip can take anywhere from 8 to 10 hours, all depending on the amount of time spent whisking through the traffic (if any), lunch breaks and using rest stations along the way. Upon arrival in Pokhara, your guide will take you out for an orientation stroll along the shore of Phewa Lake. Have a look at the mountain Machhapuchhre and the other peaks of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges that are reflected in the lake's surface. |
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You’ll stay at the exquisite Atithi Resort & Spa, Pokhara. This resort is located in the centre of Pokhara, the "city of lakes," and its expansive grounds are characterised by the adoring snow-capped mountains, the verdant woodlands that cover the surrounding hills, the placid lake water, the serene atmosphere and the breathtaking panorama presented by the Annapurna and Himalayan Ranges, right in front of you. Take pleasure in the contemporary comforts that this luxurious lodging facility has to offer at your own leisure. The exquisite wild rosewood furniture, thoughtfully constructed swimming pool, and restorative spa, as well as separate sauna and Jacuzzi rooms, have helped to carve out a space for luxurious indulgence inside it. |
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Level 2, Approx. 8 km (5 miles), 2-3 hours walking, Elevation gain: 123 m (403 ft) Enjoy a delicious breakfast before a short drive to the starting point of our trek. From there, we will walk along a ridgeline in the Annapurna Mountains' lower foothills, which will afford us views of the Pokhara Valley. After that, you'll make your way down to the Modi River Valley, which is where you'll find the Sanctuary Lodge located at 1025 m/3363 ft, operated by Mountain Lodges of Nepal. Fishtail Mountain, which is considered sacred, may be seen in its entirety from the lodge's balconies (or Machhapuchhare, as it is locally known). Lunch will be served in the lodge, and in the afternoon, we will either have the opportunity to unwind in the beautiful garden or your guide will take you on a bird viewing trip to the nearby village of Birethanti. Come evening, gather together for dinner to a treat of classic Nepalese delights made with ingredients sourced from the organic garden. |
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Level 4, Approx. 11 km (7 miles), 5-6 hours walking, Elevation gain: 1184 m (3385 ft) Savour a delightful breakfast before leaving the lodge to begin your hike through the dispersed tiny farms. You will soon be climbing the valley towards the mountains as you follow the Modi Khola in the direction of the mountains. In the distance, you are thrown to uninterrupted views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre. We have a rather lengthy hike up stone steps today, and it takes us through the rice terraces and rhododendron forests; however, while the hike promises to be a timelapse of riveting vistas, there's room for frequent stops and lunch breaks as we tread the trail. The Himalaya Lodge in Ghandruk is where we will spend the night located at 2012m/6,601ft. You will be welcomed with tea and snacks upon arrival, all while taking in the breathtaking panoramas of Annapurna South, Huinchuli, and timeless peaks of Machhapuchhare. |
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Level 4, Approx. 6 km (4 miles), 4-6 hours walking, Elevation gain: 557 m (1827 ft) As much as Landruk, our destination for today lies on the other side of the valley, in order to reach there, we will need to travel down to the river and then climb up the other side. Once the hike leaves the settlement of Ghandruk, it begins a steep descent onto the banks of the Modi River. Next, we traverse the suspension bridge, our hike to Landruk village continues up a stone staircase. While on our way, marvel at the breathtaking views of the Annapurna Mountain range and pass directly beneath the cliffs where honey gatherers scale ropes to collect wild bee honey. Arrive at your lodge, La Bee Lodge, located at 1565 m/5135 ft, where a hearty lunch awaits. Spend the rest of the day relaxing and taking in the breathtaking views of Annapurna South and Huinchuli or venture on a tour of the hamlet with your guide to explore the local attractions. All of which are totally dependent on your choice. |
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Level 3, Approx. 12 km (7 miles), 3-5 hours walking, Elevation gain: 413 (1355 ft) Your hike today takes on an easier walk with no steep uphill or downhill climb. The trail goes through villages and farmlands while providing imposing views of the Annapurna Mountains in the distance. You’ll arrive at your lodge by lunchtime at Gurung or Mala Lodge located at 1400 m/4593 ft. Spend the afternoon relaxing in the magnificent garden with views of Annapurna South or taking in the mountain vistas from the comfort of your own room, which has a view of the surrounding mountains. For those in seek of more adventure can embark on a guided village walk to Thanchok, which is an old and traditional Gurung village that is home to many blacksmith families. (Occasionally, if Gurung Lodge is full, we continue walking for another 20 minutes to Tomijun hamlet to stay at the equally excellent Mala Lodge.) |
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Level 3, Approx. 10 km (6 miles), 4 hours walking, Elevation gain: 577 (1893 ft) After witnessing a beautiful sunrise on Annapurna South, our journey onward takes a fun twist with an averagely demanding trek for a couple of hours over a broad forest track that climbs steadily. We have now reached the main route at Potana after completing a brief segment of the forest trail. For another half hour, we will arrive at Australia Camp. The Australian Camp is a series of lodges that are located on the summit of a hill. From here, enjoy breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding valleys as well as the Annapurna Alps, Machhapuchhre Himal, Lamjung Himal, and Manaslu Hima. We are able to take a short rest here for some tea before descending the ridge to Dhampus. You’ll stay at Basanta Lodge located at 1525 m/5003 ft), where you’ll be treated to a delicious lunch before the opportunity to take a stroll through Dhampus village. For those in pursue of a more relaxed pace, can unwind at the lodge's garden for spectacular views of the sunset. The entire range is in view, from Annapurna South to Annapurnas 4 and 2, as well as Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, and the other peaks in the Annapurna range. |
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Level 1, Approx. 3 km (2 miles), 1-2 hours walking, Elevation gain: 500 m (1640 ft) Following breakfast, we make our way up the slope and then descend on a stone stairway to the valley floor, passing by a forested hillside and agricultural terraces along the way. The hike can take anything from one hour and a half to two hours. After that, we get in a van and head to our accommodation in Pokhara (one hour). Pokhara is yours to discover at your leisure in the afternoon. Pokhara provides a wealth of exciting opportunities to discover its breathtaking surroundings. Go on a boat trip and paddle amid scenic splendour while surrounded on all sides by mountains. Or, if you’d prefer, you can instead hire bikes and ride along the lakeside if that sounds more like your speed. |
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You may also choose to do nothing more than lounge by the hotel pool, unwind by the lush garden, take a stroll down the lakefront while bathing in the soothing lakefront breeze, or window shop at the many stores there. Your leader will enlighten you on the several choices you have at your disposal. |
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Depart Pokhara for a 4-5 hours drive to your lush Barahi Jungle Lodge in Chitwan. On a clear day, the Annapurna Mountain range may be seen in its entirety to the left as we travel away from Pokhara. We'll be returning to Mugling, where we'll be able to head south toward Nepal's lowlands and our jungle resort in Chitwan. Arrive at noon where you’ll meet with your naturalist guide and go over the day's plans. Our plan includes a boat ride down the river toward dusk. Do keep your eyes peeled for crocodiles and colourful, exotic birds. We wait until nightfall and then head back to the lodge in a car. |
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You will be staying at the five-star Barahi Jungle Resort, Chitwan, which is located on the bank of the Rapti river, which runs parallel to Chitwan National Park and is the site of the park's entrance. The Barahi Jungle Lodge is a luxurious retreat in the middle of the jungle that provides an exciting alternative to typical sightseeing. Take pleasure in the luxurious services and modern decor of your lodging. Unwind at the spa or a hot tub inside its plush confines, as well as a pool with glistening waters and expansive views of the surrounding landscape. Tonight, enjoy a cultural dance performance prior to dinner featuring an impressive array of culinary choices ranging from Nepalese to Asian cuisines. |
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The order in which activities are subject to changes, but in general, the schedule for today will consist of a jeep safari, a stroll through the village to enjoy the view of exotic birds, and a walk through the village. We will engage in the first part of the expedition in the morning and the second; each featuring an activity from the ones available. Your tours today will be in company of highly experienced and professional naturalists who are armed to the teeth with a wealth of information regarding the wildlife you'll be encountering. There will be a tour of a traditional Tharu home. This tour takes you on a historic encounter with the artistic traditional houses of Tharu people, made with wood and thatch. Your thrilling expedition continues with a safari jeep ride into the Chitwan National Park where you'll get a once-in a lifetime opportunity to encounter thriving exotic wildlife in their abundance. Amongst your encounter will be learning as well as getting to see a variety of species of deer, wild boar, the rare Bengal Tiger, and the one-horned rhinoceros, in addition to the abundant bird life on display. There will be a unique cultural program presented at the resort each evening before supper. Depending on the season, dinner can be enjoyed either inside or outside by the swimming pool. |
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This morning, you are welcome to take advantage of your accommodation and its various amenities. If, on the other hand, you're in the mood for something a little lighter yet relaxing, a bird-watching walk is being organised and is open to anyone who wants to join. Following that, we will make a quick trip to the airport in Bharatpur for our flight back to Kathmandu. |
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Savour a delightful breakfast and enjoy a lovely stroll by the lake, a perfect time to reflect on your incredible journey. For those wishing for one last adventure can venture on a bird watching walk early morning. Transfer to Bharatpur Airport for your flight to Kathmandu where your journey ends for your onward travels. NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. |
Dates & Prices
Please contact us for private departures and group bookings. Single Supplement is available on request.
More Info
- The departure and finish point is Kathmandu
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Kathmandu. Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport is the closest airport and receives airlines mostly from South-east Asia and Europe. A number of direct flights fly from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore and Varanasi to Kathmandu. Popular airlines that operate regularly are Jet Airways, Air India, IndiGo and Nepal Airlines.
The main trekking season in Nepal is from October to mid-May when daytime temperatures at most altitudes are generally comfortable for walking, the sky is clear much of the time, and rain and snow are occasional occurrences. Daytime temperatures will vary from 15C to 30C (59F to 86F).
Different seasons offer different advantages for trekking:
Mid-September to November: This is the main trekking season in Nepal. Daytime temperatures will be up to 20C (68F). Skies are usually clear and days on trek are sunny and mild with clear mountain views. Nights will be colder with temperatures dropping to about 5C (41F).
December to end of February: Despite the cooler conditions, this is an ideal time to trek in Nepal. For this particular trip December is the best month to go to this area as the skies are usually very clear, the days are sunny, and the mountain views are at their best. Early mornings and evenings are cold with temperatures down about 5C but once the sun is out days are pleasant and sunny with temperatures up to 22ºC. The trails are much less busy at the time of year. Chitwan will be cold in the early mornings and evenings but pleasantly warm in the daytime.
March to May: Both day and night temperatures will be warmer in general but haze will often build up in the afternoons and there can be rain. It is very hot in Chitwan and temperatures rise to 30C (86F) and above in Chitwan and in Kathmandu. On trek the days will be hot (up to 25C/77F). Nights will be a bit cooler. Flowers bloom in this season and this is one of the reasons people chose to trek at this time. The Annapurna region is famous for its rhododendrons at this time.
Please remember that in any mountain area the weather is never wholly predictable; you should be prepared and equipped to deal with any differences in weather beyond the conditions described above.
The walking level on this trip is rated Level 3 Moderate.
Level 1 Leisurely: Experience is not necessary; anyone fit and healthy enough to complete a weekend walk will thrive. Walks are often optional. Trails are seldom flat, so expect a reasonable number of ascents and descents. You normally walk for two to five hours per day; daily ascents will likely be around 985ft to 1,640ft (300m to 500m), perhaps with the odd day around 1,970ft (600m).
Level 3 Moderate: Expect easy, medium-length walks or harder, shorter walks. Some experience is useful, but not essential. Good health and reasonable fitness are important. There will be walks at higher altitudes and some longer, harder days. Generally, though, the underfoot conditions will be fair. A walking day is normally five to seven hours; daily ascents will likely be around 1,640ft to 2,625ft (500m to 800m), perhaps with the odd day around 2,955ft to 3,280ft (900m to 1,000m).
Level 5 Challenging: Fitness is vital with extended walking in mountainous terrain. You might also experience high altitude, challenging climates and remote locations. Trekking experience is desirable, but not vital if you are confident in your physical condition. Walking days are usually between six and eight hours, although they may be longer for passes or peaks. Daily ascents can be around 2,955ft to 3,280ft (900m to 1,000m), perhaps with the odd day around 3,610ft to 3,940ft (1,100m to 1,200m).
Level 7 Tough: Trekking experience is essential and preferably at altitude. You need complete confidence in your ability to trek for many days over difficult terrain. You may encounter extreme altitude and weather conditions and may need to use ice axes and crampons. Stamina is essential as walking days last six to nine hours (sometimes more on occasions). Daily ascents will likely be around 2,955ft to 3,280ft (900m to 1,000m), perhaps with the odd day around 3,610ft to 3,940ft (1,100m to 1,200m).
Split and optional grades: Where a trip falls between two grades, an intermediate or ‘split’ grade is used. For example, Level 2 (Leisurely/Moderate). Occasionally there are optional ascents available; in this case, the grade will be highlighted.
The lodges used are of the highest level of comfort in the Himalaya and are luxurious compared to the teahouses. The trekking is a good introduction to Himalayan trekking and has been graded Activity Level 3 (Moderate), with six days walking and full porterage throughout, so you need only carry a daypack. In the Annapurna region, many of the trails consist of stone steps. A fairly decent level of fitness is required, as there are quite a few steep uphill walks and some quite long descents. Altitude is not a factor on this trip as the maximum height you will reach is 6,415ft (2,000m) with an average of 4,265ft (1,300m). There are three to five hours of walking on most days.
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 90 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 90 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 90 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 90 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. The tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The walks take place in very special wilderness settings. The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a walk with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the walk has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any walk up to 60 days prior to departure if a minimum of 4 walkers are unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the walk or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.