Walking, wildlife, food and culture: this tour ticked a lot of boxes for me. It is true that the poor visibility at this time of year (March) meant that the Annupurna mountains weren't visible during much of the trek, but the landscape with its flora, fauna and small farms still made the walking interesting and enjoyable. A special highlight was seeing the one-horned rhinoceros at the Chitwan National Park, and the cultural events staged at the Green Chwadi Retreat at Chitwan were an unexpected bonus. There was a wealth of birds to see throughout the tour, and our tour leader, Su, was very knowledgeable in identifying them. As someone who is unable to eat gluten, I had been worried about how I would cope with the food; and I am extremely grateful to Su for helping me to navigate this, as well as ensuring that there were always things available for me to eat.
Sudarshan KC, our tour leader was a very kind and thoughtful person. He was very attentive to everyone’s needs. Being the only vegan in the group, he was very helpful to let me know which foods contained animal products. He also explained to the kitchen staff what my needs were. He did his best to talk about his country but sometimes he was hard to understand because of our language barrier and his accent but he tried extra hard to make things clearer. I would definitely recommend him to others who go on this tour or tour with Su.
Trek through the incredible Annapurna region and be awed by the Nepalese Himalayas on this 15-day adventure. These snow-capped peaks, mist-shrouded valleys, isolated communities and remote monasteries will inspire those with a bold spirit and a yearning for a definitive nature experience. Reach altitudes of more than 5000 metres, discover the ancestral traditions of the local people and immerse yourself completely in the spectacular mountain wilderness of the Annapurna Circuit. This is a challenging trip, but the sense of accomplishment will leave even the most seasoned trekker with some unforgettable memories.
This 12-day adventure immerses you in the vibrant cultures and stunning landscapes of Nepal and Bhutan. Your journey begins in Kathmandu, where you'll explore the bustling streets of Thamel by rickshaw, wander through the historic Durbar Square, and marvel at the ancient Swayambhunath Stupa, affectionately known as the "monkey temple". From there, you'll take a breathtaking flight over the Himalayas to the mystical kingdom of Bhutan.
In Bhutan, you'll delve into centuries-old traditions and explore majestic fortresses known as dzongs. You'll witness the art of incense making, hike to sacred temples nestled in breathtaking valleys, and even experience the unique hospitality of a Bhutanese homestay. A highlight of your trip will be the challenging but rewarding hike to Taktsang Monastery, the iconic Tiger's Nest clinging to a sheer cliff face. This journey offers a unique blend of cultural immersion, natural beauty, and spiritual exploration.
Returning to Nepal, you'll witness a spectacular sunrise over the Himalayas from Nagarkot, a picturesque village in the Kathmandu Valley. You'll then delve into the ancient city of Bhaktapur, with its well-preserved temples and traditional crafts, and even try your hand at pottery. The tour culminates with visits to significant religious sites in Kathmandu – the Hindu temple of Pasupatinath and the Buddhist Boudhanath stupa – offering a glimpse into the spiritual heart of Nepal. This itinerary promises an unforgettable experience filled with vibrant colors, ancient traditions, and breathtaking scenery.
For those looking for a longer adventure, featuring India, please see our Temples, Dzongs and Taj Tour
Start your day with a convenient hotel pick-up in Kathmandu, where your friendly guide will give you a brief overview of the tour. First, visit Pashupatinath Temple, one of Nepal’s most sacred Hindu temples, located by the holy Bagmati River. Watch the traditional rituals and admire the temple's unique architecture.
Next, head to Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest stupas in the world. Enjoy the peaceful Tibetan Buddhist atmosphere as you walk around the stupa and explore nearby monasteries and shops. Stop for a relaxing lunch near Boudhanath, where you can savor tasty Nepali or Tibetan dishes.
After lunch, visit Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), located on a hill with amazing views of the Kathmandu Valley. Explore the stupa and meet the playful monkeys that live there. Then, continue to Kathmandu Durbar Square, a historic royal complex filled with old temples, palaces, and rich history.
Finally, enjoy a leisurely walk to Thamel, a lively neighborhood full of shops, cafés, and local life.