The itinerary is very well thought out with lots to see and do. Everyday had a highlight and the Nepalese are so friendly and inviting. The views of the Himalayas in Nagarkot and Pokhara were stunning. The hotels were in excellent locations throughout. There are walks for those who want to and options for those who don't. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone, regardless of physical ability. Our tour leader, Su, was excellent and worked tirelessly to ensure our safety, enjoyment and general happiness. He is the best leader I have had out of some 27 tours. This is Explore's strong point - they know how to pick and train tour leaders and Su was the best of the best.
Active and outdoorRafting
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Discover sacred culture and incredible natural landscapes as you venture deep into Tamang hinterland along the quiet Tamang Heritage Trail (restricted until 2004). On this 15-day trek, you’ll explore the wilds of Langtang National Park, uncover surprisingly verdant midlands and stay in villages that will teach you about the local culture. Connect with locals, share stories and fill your days with exhales (both in exhaustion and in awe). All this, paired with the soaring views of Manaslu Massif, Ganesh, Langtang and Jugal Himal. This trek is perfect for the adventurous and active traveller looking for something different well off the tourist trail.
ALTERNATE ITINERARY:
Due to the nature of trekking in Nepal, please be aware that this trip will operate on an amended itinerary in the event of high-risk weather conditions.
AdventureTrekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
This 11-day tour of Nepal offers a diverse and immersive experience, combining cultural exploration, natural beauty, and thrilling adventures. Starting in Kathmandu, you'll delve into the city's rich heritage with rickshaw rides, visits to ancient temples and squares, and a taste of local cuisine.
Venturing beyond the capital, you'll encounter the wildlife wonders of Chitwan National Park, embarking on jungle walks, river safaris, and jeep excursions in search of rhinos, elephants, and other fascinating creatures. A captivating Tharu dance performance adds a cultural touch to your jungle experience.
The journey continues to the charming hilltop village of Bandipur, where you'll wander through restored streets, hike to hidden caves, and soak in panoramic mountain views. The lakeside town of Pokhara awaits, offering a tranquil retreat with boat rides, hikes, and glimpses of the Annapurna range.
From Pokhara, you'll travel to Kurintar, where you can choose between an adrenaline-pumping rafting experience on the Trishuli River or a scenic cable car ride to the revered Manakamana Temple.
As the tour progresses, you'll witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas from Nagarkot, followed by a cultural immersion in Bhaktapur, with its ancient architecture and pottery lessons. The spiritual heart of Nepal unfolds with visits to the sacred sites of Pasupatinath and Boudhanath, providing a deeper understanding of the country's religious traditions.
If you're looking for a more active tour, you may consider our Classic Nepal Tour, which follows a similar itinerary with the addition of a 5-day trek in the Annapurna Mountain range.
Private tour option
If our scheduled departure dates don't work for you, or you would prefer not to travel with a group, then we can also run this Nepal tour package privately for you. Please contact us for more information and prices.
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Guest House, Home-stay
Age Range
8-75 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Kathmandu, Chitwan National Park
Kathmandu, Chitwan National Park, Bandipur, Pokhara
With inspiring cultural experiences and days spent trekking in the Himalayas, this women’s only expedition will give you a unique insight into the diverse lives of Nepalese women. Meet a range of female trailblazers, from chefs at a social enterprise to women campaigning to end menstruation discrimination to your all-female mountain guides and porter’s crew. Listen to personal stories shared by locals and spend time wildlife spotting in Chitwan National Park, where you’ll take a safari and a river canoe ride. Connect with Buddhist nuns as you get an inside look at an all-female nunnery challenging patriarchal traditions. Listen, connect and be inspired on this 13-day female-run adventure.
Adventure
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort, Guest House
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Kathmandu, Chitwan National Park
Kathmandu, Chitwan National Park, Pokhara, Yangjakot, Tanting, Sikles, Ghale Gaun, Madi
Embark on an unforgettable Himalayan adventure with a thrilling Langtang trek. Traverse lush forests, picturesque villages, and stunning alpine landscapes while experiencing authentic Tibetan culture. This guided expedition offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, high-altitude lakes, and the iconic Langtang Valley. Key highlights include visits to ancient monasteries, panoramic vistas from Kyanjin Gompa, and encounters with diverse wildlife. Perfect for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers, this trek promises an exhilarating blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Guest House
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Kathmandu, Syabrubesi, Lama Hote
Kathmandu, Syabrubesi, Lama Hotel, Langtang Valley, Kyanjin Gompa
Visit the mystical Shangri-La, the land of yaks and snow, of monks, monasteries and stupas. Explore Buddhist monasteries, including Drepung and Sera. Take a trip to the Jokhang Temple as well as Tashi Lhunpo, Phalkor, Yungbulakang and Thandruk monasteries. Explore the Kumbum Stupa, a three-dimensional mandala that portrays the Buddhist cosmos.
Enjoy the panoramic views of the soaring peaks of Mount Everest, Cho Oyu and Shisapangma from the Roof of the World. Stroll through the ancient Bharkhor, an area of narrow streets and bustling markets, and explore Potala Palace, once the abode of the Dalai Lama.
Get the chance to observe the socio-cultural life of the Tibetan people. See the Rongbas with their yaks and the popular street performances being carried out in its towns and cities. See pilgrims as they circumambulate holy Buddhist sites. Learn more about this once forbidden kingdom, where people have still preserved centuries-old practices.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Embark on an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Himalayas with the Annapurna Poon Hill Trek. Explore picturesque villages, trek through lush rhododendron forests, and witness breathtaking sunrise views over the majestic Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Perfect for both seasoned hikers and nature enthusiasts, this trek offers rich cultural encounters and panoramic landscapes. Experience the ultimate blend of natural beauty and cultural richness while trekking in one of Nepal's most iconic regions.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Our guide, Sudarshan kc, was the best guide I've had on any Explore trip I've done (4, so far). He was really knowledgeable, gentle, warm, funny, & friendly, he looked after our group fantastically. Nothing was too much trouble, his recurrent phrase was 'anything is possible'. The tour itself was brilliant & flowed really well, despite the longer road journeys due to the landslides that had occurred a few wks before. In fact, I'd go as far to say those journeys were actually quite an adventure in themselves! For me, it was a perfect trip, the 4 days trekking were amazing, challenging at times, but worth the effort to see the stunning views of the mountains. The teahouses were simple but really welcoming, & in fab locations for views. Pokhara was a beautiful place for a bit of a rest, the calm lake, great shopping, & places to eat. Chitwan was outstanding, especially with the rhino sightings, & close encounters!
I was lucky to have a great group of people to travel with too, which made the trip a lot of fun.
Kathmandu is exactly what you'd expect, a city full of life, bustling traffic & historic sights. People are very warm & friendly.
I'd recommend this trip wholeheartedly.
I wanted to stay longer, & shed tears when I left. Many thanks.
Active and outdoor
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Guest House, Resort
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Kathmandu, Chitwan National Park
Kathmandu, Chitwan National Park, Kurintar, Badauri, Panchase Bhanjyang, Bumdi, Pokhara
More than a simple trip, our fifteen days in Nepal and Tibet were an unforgettable experience and a wonderful discovery. A very big thank you goes to this local tour operator and its Managing Director, Mr. Kaum Bahadur Subedi, who provided us with expert drivers (absolutely essential on the roads of Nepal) and guides with great expertise and experience. I want to especially mention Rem Raj Gurung who introduced us to the wonderful temples of Kathmandu, now all restored after the 2015 earthquake. A very useful exercise for me also who had visited those temples in the past.
Even more exciting was traveling across the Tibetan plateau. We entered from the border with Nepal - which in itself is an adventure - and we traveled the long way that leads to Lasha, crossing a powerful and unforgettable landscape. Along the plateau we had the Himalayas on the right with its snowy peaks (we also went to admire the north face of Everest with a half-day detour) and on the left another long chain of mountains that outlined a landscape that is hard to find the words to describe.
And then the unforgettable discovery for me, thanks to the guide that Mr Kaum made available to us for Tibet, a profound expert on the religiosity of the Tibetans. The discovery of a people who still live in a deep connection with their past and traditions: in religion, in clothing, in language. But I also found a genuine willingness towards foreigners. And we were among the few Westerners to visit the country.
We also have a beautiful memory of Lasha, a modern city that lives with a past whose strength still seems very alive.
Sightseeing ToursAdventure
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Guest House
Age Range
5-79 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Everest Base Camp trek, Kathmand
Everest Base Camp trek, Kathmandu, Lhasa, Shigatse, Rongbuk
Nepal beckons with its alluring charm, ancient heritage, and abundant natural beauty. This unforgettable 9-day journey through Kathmandu, Pokhara, Ghandrung, Dhampus, and Chitwan National Park promises an enchanting exploration of Nepal's diverse offerings. Kathmandu, the vibrant capital, captivates with its rich tapestry of cultural treasures. Immerse yourself in the spiritual ambience of Swayambhunath Stupa and explore the medieval architecture of Patan Durbar Square. Gaze in awe at the majestic Annapurna and Machapuchare peaks in Pokhara. Ghandrung and Dhampus, nestled in the Annapurna region, present an authentic cultural experience amidst lush landscapes. Discover the warm hospitality of the Gurung community, their traditional dances, and intricate handicrafts. From ancient heritage to serene lakes, from snow-capped peaks to lush jungles, Nepal's treasures are bound to leave you with cherished memories of a lifetime. So, pack your bags, and get ready to be spellbound by the wonders of Nepal with the Essential Nepal 2024 tour.
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Guest House, Resort
Age Range
18-75 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Kathmandu, Pokhara, Tolka, Dhamp
Kathmandu, Pokhara, Tolka, Dhampus, Chitwan National Park
40% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Are you ready to experience the unique beauty of the Nepalese Himalayas? This hefty but rewarding hike will see you hiking up high, through Noak forests and mountainside villages, with plenty of golden sunsets and mesmerising Himalayan panoramas along the way. The trek is tough, but as you reach the Sarangkot viewpoint and spot the world famous Annapurna peaks ahead, you'll realise it was all worth it.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Lodge, Hotel
Age Range
18-35 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Kathmandu, Pokhara, Dhampus, Aus
Kathmandu, Pokhara, Dhampus, Australian Camp, Sarangkot
8% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
From the autumn 2016 season the Mera Peak trek/climb by this tour operator changed from a camping based itinerary of previous years to lodge or tea house based accommodation. I/we departed in October 2016. Before commencing the trek Id convinced myself that the trek in to Mera would be broadly similar to the Everest Base Camp trek, I was very wrong. There is no gentle start and long days requiring sustained effort are the theme pretty much throughout. The route taken for the first few days is very quiet and had a feel of "going around the houses" for me. That quieter route also makes for much more basic lodges than those found on EBC for example but they were all adequate. The longer approach route does however allow for excellent acclimatisation, a major key to success. All the approach routes converge in Kote and it is then a straight shot up the now rocky Hinku valley. I didnt find the approach trek in to be very scenic and that wasnt helped by day after day of cloud cover. I wonder if a November departure would be worthwhile for clearer skies. Khare, which I thought of as base camp village, was a surprsingly busy place with climbers from all over the world either preparing for or returning from Mera. Stories of six groups having been beaten back by high winds the previous day brought about a realisation that nature could quite easily scupper our plans. Having left Khare and reached the snow line, those of us that brought our own mountain boots and crampons were reunited with them by virtue of some porters that had gone ahead of us. I was now using mountain boots and crampons on snow for the first time, I found I tired far quicker than I cared to admit at the time. After a short but steep climb things level out and then it was a relatively short walk to Mera La camp for the night. The sunset and night time stars were very nice. We were now in tents for the first time. I wish I hadn't binned off my Thermarest mattress as a weight saving effort for the Lukla flight. Foam mattresses were provided but I could still feel the cold coming up from the ground. The next day was a short one from Mera La to High Camp. It however is one of those sections where the destination never seems to get any closer despite feeling you're working like a steam train at full speed. The amusement of high camp's precarious position soon passes as you try to concentrate on getting some sleep for the upcoming 0030 wake up call. I got no real sleep. We then started our torch lit climb through the night in deeply sub zero temperatures. It was hard going, really hard going, there was little talking amongst us. It was just heads down and endure it. The group were imposing more rest stops on the guides than they wanted but I don't think there were any negative consequences when all said and done. My fingers were numb with cold. The sun slowly rose and Mera central summit could now be seen ahead. We left our rucksacks at the foot of the summit and using our Jumars went up the surprisingly short roped section fixed by our guides, it was easy and I was on the summit in a minute. It had taken around 7 hours from leaving High Camp with no sleep (for me) since Mera La the previous day. It was bitterly cold on the summit and very windy, there wasn't any open celebration. There now followed an extremely long walk all the way back down to Khare village with only a short pitstop at High Camp along the way. It was exhausting. Availability of water was a problem too since much if not all of our water was still frozen despite the now blazing morning sun. I was gasping for a drink. Ngima our leader had some warm water in a flask and I will definitely take a small flask when I find myself back on a high mountain again. What now remained was the trek "home" to Lukla. The third day of decent involved far more steep climbing than we were in the mood for but we gt where we were going. Conditions on the Zatrwa pass werent as bad as they could be. During our trek trail crampons or shoe grips weren't necessary. There were only a couple sections of ice a few paces long. The decent from the pass is long and steep, thankfully the national park authority have been building a stone staircase which makes things a little easier but you still have to watch your step. There is the potential for an overnight stay a few hours short of Lukla but depending on progress it can be skipped and we pressed on for Lukla and some comfort... relatively speaking
ClimbingTrekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Camping, Lodge, Tent
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Kathmandu, Tangnag, Mera Peak Ba
Kathmandu, Tangnag, Mera Peak Base Camp, Mera La, Mera Peak High Camp, Mera Peak, Zatrwa La Pass, Lukla, Piuyan, Pangkongma, Nashing Dingma, Chholem, Sukye La, Kothe
11% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
This comprehensive tour of Nepal takes you on a journey across one of the most spectacularly beautiful countries in the world. Amazing mountain scenery mixed with lush, wildlife rich jungles, ancient hilltop villages stand in contrast to the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu.
Our 15-day tour begins with a walking tour of Kathmandu before we drive to Chitwan National Park in the lowland Terai region of Nepal, close to the Indian border. There's an option available today to do an afternoon of exciting white water rafting on the Trisuli river, en-route to the park. We have two nights at a wildlife lodge at Chitwan, and enjoy a range of activities in the park, including a jungle walk, traditional river canoe trip and jeep safari. Outside the park we'll take a rural village walk to see how the local Tharu people live, and an early morning bird watching walk is also available for those keen. Chitwan is famous for its population of Asian rhinos, and there are also numerous other animals and birds to see including several species of deer and monkeys, wild boar, sloth bear, elephants, gharial and mugger crocodiles, and if you're very lucky you may catch a glimpse of a tiger too.
Next we head to the hilltop Newari town of Bandipur, the centre of which has been carefully restored and is well worth exploring. After some great mountain views from here we head to the lakeside town of Pokhara at the foot of the Annapurna range before starting a 5-day trek through the Himalayan foothills to the spectacular viewpoint of Poon Hill. We stay in locally owned trekking lodges and experienced guides and porters will accompany you on the trek. This is a moderate trek with a couple of long days and plenty of up and down, but you certainly don't need to be super-fit. You'll walk through a wide variety of landscapes and countryside including riverside trails, rhododendron forests, terraced farmland and grassy ridges, always enjoying different views of the mighty Annapurna range above you.
After a little free time to relax in Pokhara after the trek we return to Kathmandu and spend a night at the village of Nagarkot, perched on the rim of the Kathmandu Valley. After a morning sunrise and hopefully stunning views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest in the far distance, we return to Kathmandu via Bhaktapur, where we take time to enjoy the wonderful, intricately carved, wooden architecture of the traditional Hindu temples and surrounding buildings. The tour then ends back in Kathmandu.
For those looking for a less active tour of Nepal, you may consider our Nepal Exposed tour, which follows a similar itinerary, but without the 5-day trek.
Private tour option
If our scheduled departure dates don't work for you, or you would prefer not to travel with a group, then we can also run this tour privately for you. Please contact us for more information and prices.
Rafting
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Lodge, Home-stay
Age Range
8-75 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Kathmandu, Tikhedhunga, Pokhara
Kathmandu, Tikhedhunga, Pokhara, Chitwan, Chitwan National Park, Bandipur, Ghandruk, Tadapani, Ghorepani
