Trip Overview

On this Private Journey, experience this extraordinary Himalayan beauty on a delightful lodge-based trek under the gaze of mighty Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare. And it's all at a comfortable elevation—no higher than 7,300 feet! As you hike from one village to another in the company of your own private guide, you enjoy exploring one of the most culturally rich and scenic regions of the Himalayas. Along the way, our selection of charming lodges offers you the comfort of private rooms, en suite baths, and hot showers—and the mountain views are amazing! After our trek, you'll head to a delightful resort near a lake in Pokhara Valley.

Trip Highlights

• Spectacular trek below the soaring peaks of the Annapurna Himalaya
• Beautifully located lodges with breathtaking vistas, picturesque villages
• Exotic Kathmandu, with its maze of ancient temples and lively marketplaces

Itinerary

Days 1-2: Kathmandu, City of Temples

In the hidden corners of fabled Kathmandu, the ancient past lingers on in an enthralling maze of narrow streets crowded with spice merchants, golden-roofed temples, wandering sacred cows, and traditional workshops. Enjoy a guided exploration of the extraordinary sights and sounds of Kathmandu, including Pashupatinath, with its temples to Shiva and devout sadhus (holy men).

Days 3-7: Lodge to Lodge Trek

Fly to Pokhara and set off into the Annapurna foothills with your guide and porters. Your trek route is designed to grant you superb views of the Annapurnas (so close they seem within arm's reach!) as you hike from one lodge to the next, visiting picturesque hamlets and villages. The Annapurnas are a treasure house of traditional cultures, and the mix of peoples is one of its delights. Hike through villages of Brahmins and Chettris as well as Newaris, Gurungs, and Tibetans as your trail contours along terraced fields and through forests of giant rhododendrons, with blue skies and stunning Himalayan vistas all around. Follow a ridgeline into the Modi Khola Valley, enjoying magnificent views of 22,943-foot Machapuchare, a sacred peak, and continue through brilliant green hills brightened by the splash of colorful saris of local women. Enjoy an exploration day at Ghandruk, a beautiful village of slate-roofed houses with a maze of cobbled streets and neatly terraced fields. Ghandruk is home to generations of Gurung men who have served in Britain's legendary Gurkha regiments, and in the lanes of this lovely village you'll have a chance to learn about the local handicrafts and fascinating Gurung culture. The unique Gurung faith encompasses both Hindu and Buddhist beliefs. Continue on beautiful trails to the remote villages of Lamakhet and Majgaun, where you can visit the local schools. All the trails are at altitudes below 6,600 feet, and the lodges are well-appointed and stunningly located. They offer ample comforts at each day's end, including private rooms with solar-heated showers and flush toilets. Delicious meals are served, including breakfast in landscaped gardens with the panorama of the snow-covered Himalaya before you.

Day 8: Enchanting Pokhara Valley

Descend through wooded hillsides and terraced farmlands to the floor of the lush Pokhara Valley for an overnight at the Temple Tree Resort and Spa. Enjoy a refreshing dip in the hotel's pool and gaze on panoramic Annapurna views from your room and from the spacious gardens.

Days 9-11: Kathmandu

Return to Kathmandu for forays through the lively bazaars of Thamel or enjoy a visit to Swayambu, the great hilltop temple with its painted “all seeing” eyes of Buddha. Swayambu is a great example of the religious harmony of Nepal, with Hindu and Buddhist shrines side by side throughout the temple complex. Depart on Day 11.