From ancient kingdoms to majestic mountain vistas, trek through the breathtaking Himalayan landscape of the Annapurna Ranges on this 15-day adventure. Pass awe-inspiring glaciers, stay on the banks of pristine rivers, cross mountain pastures, dip into natural hot springs and encounter mule trains carrying supplies to remote villages. Rest and revive in cosy mountain teahouses and meet friendly locals along the way. Time spent in Kathmandu and Pokhara completes the adventure with insights into Nepali culture and tradition.
ALTERNATE ITINERARY:
Due to the nature of outdoor travel, please be aware that this trip will operate on an amended itinerary in high-risk weather conditions.
I enjoyed every minute of this trip. The local staff (Gum K.C. our tour leader, and Chowang our sherpa leader, and all 5 of the porters) made the trip an amazing experience.
I had never been to Nepal or to high altitude so it was a challenge for me (at age 64) but I would most definitely do it all again in a heartbeat.
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.
Discover India's enchanting wonders with an unforgettable adventure through Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. Explore iconic landmarks like the Red Fort, Taj Mahal, and Amber Fort. Immerse yourself in rich culture, vibrant markets, and stunning architecture. Experience royal palaces, Mughal masterpieces, and delectable cuisine on this captivating journey across the Golden Triangle. Perfect for history buffs and culture enthusiasts, this tour promises a perfect blend of historical splendor and modern vibrancy for an unparalleled travel experience.
A really enjoyable trip led by Abhi our lovely young guide. Kerala is beautiful and we were able to experience the contrast between the mountains and the backwaters. The food provided on the trek by Sheila and her team was amazing.
Immerse yourself in tranquility with a rejuvenating yoga retreat in Rishikesh, India. Experience daily yoga sessions, meditation, and spiritual teachings amidst the serene foothills of the Himalayas. Explore sacred temples, partake in a Ganges River ceremony, and enjoy cultural excursions. This retreat is perfect for those seeking spiritual growth and mental clarity in a picturesque setting. Secure your spot now for an unparalleled wellness journey in the Yoga Capital of the World.
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.
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.
My first high-altitude hike - the Nubra Valley trek - and all I can say is WOW! With Valerie Parkinson as our tour leader, we were set up for an unforgettable adventure from day one. The incredible cook, knowledgeable guides, and fantastic camp crew made every moment a joy. If you’re thinking of exploring the Nubra Valley, you simply can’t go wrong with this trip. The only challenge now? Deciding on my next adventure!
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
Launched in 2023, the Pekoe Trail has taken the hiking world by storm – offering a cinematic journey through the emerald tea plantations and rural villages of Sri Lanka’s central highlands. Join us to hike its most beautiful stages, guided by an expert tour leader ready to share a land rarely seen by outsiders. To elevate your adventure, we also take scenic train rides and scale Kirigalpotta, the highest hikeable peak in Sri Lanka.
An unsurpassed journey: a unique trek combined with the vibrant Phyang Masked Dance Festival. Whether this is your first trek in Ladakh or a follow-up adventure, the Nubra Valley to Indus Valley trek offers a perfect balance of cultural immersion and high-altitude adventure. This itinerary reflects our decades of experience operating in India and takes you through some of Ladakh’s most breathtaking landscapes and historic sites.
Your journey begins in Leh at 3,500m (11,483ft), where we explore the ancient monasteries of Shey, Tikse, and Matho, gaining insight into Ladakh’s deep-rooted Buddhist traditions. From here, we drive over the Khardung La at 5,602m (18,379ft), the highest motorable road in the world, into the stunning Nubra Valley, where we visit Diskit Monastery before beginning our trek.
Over six days, we follow ancient trails through summer settlements and remote side valleys, encountering traditional ways of life while gradually ascending to the base of the Lasermo La. The highlight of the trek is the exhilarating crossing of Lasermo La Pass at 5,440m (17,847ft), offering spectacular views of the East Karakoram and the Stok Range. Descending into the Indus Valley, we reach Phyang, where we experience the vibrant two-day masked festival at Phyang Monastery, a true celebration of Ladakh’s living Buddhist culture.
Beyond the trek, we explore Ladakh’s most historic and remote monasteries, including Alchi, Lamayuru, and Likir, where ancient murals and monastic traditions provide a deeper understanding of this fascinating region. Returning to Leh, there is time to soak in the atmosphere of this unique mountain city, where Tibetan and Indian influences blend seamlessly.
With carefully planned acclimatisation, expert guides, and seamless logistics, this trek offers a rewarding mix of adventure and cultural discovery. The gradual approach to higher altitudes ensures a safer and more enjoyable experience. As part of our commitment to responsible travel, we support local communities, employ experienced Ladakhi staff, and ensure fair wages for porters and crew.
For those looking for a well-rounded Himalayan experience, the Nubra to Indus Valley trek combines the thrill of a spectacular pass crossing with the rich cultural heritage of Ladakh.
