A day to recover from the journey, adjust to the time difference and settle in. No programme, no obligations. Tomorrow we get down to business.

Sightseeing

Want to go for a small walk today? Here are some ideas on walking distance from your hotel.

Visit Garden of Dreams

Just outside Thamel, the Garden of Dreams is a peaceful escape from the city. Stroll through the flower gardens, watch the squirrels and take a breath. A good spot for lunch or simply a quiet moment before the trek begins.

Swoyambhunath Stupa

Also known as the Monkey Temple, Swayambhunath sits on a hilltop about 20 minutes west of Thamel. The climb up the stone staircase is steep, but the reward is a panoramic view over Kathmandu and a stupa surrounded by dozens of resident monkeys. The all-seeing eyes painted on the tower watch over the city from every angle. One of the oldest religious sites in Nepal, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.

Kathmandu Durbar Square

About 15 minutes on foot from Thamel, Kathmandu Durbar Square is the historic heart of the old city. The square was the seat of the Malla and Shah kings for centuries and is still used today for religious ceremonies, including those of the Kumari, the living goddess whose residence is located within the complex. The temples, courtyards and wooden carvings date back to the 15th and 16th centuries. Walk there from Thamel and take the back streets: the journey is half the experience.

After breakfast, we have our pre-trip meeting. We go through the itinerary together and check our gear. Missing something? Your guide will take you to the outdoor shops nearby to get everything sorted. The rest of the day is yours.

Early morning, we board the jeep and head east towards the Solu Khumbu region, also known as the Everest region. The road winds through hills, river valleys and terraced farmland. By late afternoon, we reach Phaplu. This is a small town with a grass airstrip and the first taste of Sherpa country.

The trek begins! 🙌

We climb through forests of oak, rhododendron and pine, passing small Sherpa settlements along the way. The trail is quiet and well-maintained. Jhapre is a simple village with wide views over the surrounding hills.

We climb above the tree line into open alpine terrain. The air gets thinner and the views get wider. By afternoon, we reach Pikey Base Camp. It’s a raw, exposed spot with the summit directly above and the Himalayan range beginning to reveal itself on the horizon.

The alarm goes early. We climb to the summit of Pikey Peak in the dark, headlamps on, the cold sharp and still. At the top, we can see the Himalayan range: Everest, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, Numbur, all at once. 😍

Sir Edmund Hillary called this his favourite viewpoint of Everest. Standing here with a bright sky, it is easy to understand why. We descend to base camp for breakfast and rest.

A long descent back through forest and terraced fields to the valley floor. Junbesi is one of the most beautiful villages in the Solu region. It’s a cluster of stone houses, prayer flags and a monastery on the hillside above. We’ll spend two nights here.

Today’s a slower day.

In the morning, we hike up to Thupten Chöling Monastery, one of the most important Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in the region. It was founded after the 1959 Chinese invasion of Tibet by refugees who brought their traditions with them.

The afternoon is free to rest, explore the village or simply sit and watch the mountains.

We leave Junbesi and climb through rhododendron forest and Sherpa villages towards the Taksindu La pass. The views along the ridge are wide and open. On the other side, the Dudh Koshi valley comes into view.

We descend from the pass and climb again through remote terrain towards Saharsbeni. The trail becomes quieter here, with fewer settlements and more open sky. We spend two nights at Saharsbeni as the base for the Dudh Kunda hike.

Up early. We climb to Dudh Kunda, the Milky Lake, at the foot of Numbur Himal. The glacial silt gives the water its white, opaque colour. Sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists, pilgrims have come here for centuries to bathe in its waters and offer prayers. The silence here is complete. We descend back to Saharsbeni in the afternoon.

A descending day through forest and farmland. The altitude eases and the air warms. Ringmu is a quiet village, a welcome change of pace after the high terrain.

The final walking day. We descend to Phaplu, where the trek began. Tired, satisfied and with a full bag of memories. Tonight we celebrate.

Congrats! We walked through one of Nepal’s least visited trekking regions, stood on Sir Edmund Hillary’s favourite viewpoint and reached a sacred glacial lake at 4,600 m / 15,092 ft. Well done.  🎉 🙌

We board the jeep back to Kathmandu. Outside the window, the hills roll by and the city slowly reappears on the horizon. Back at the hotel: a hot shower, a soft bed and the quiet satisfaction of knowing what we just did.

After breakfast, we board our private vehicle with our tour guide for a full day of sightseeing in Kathmandu.

Sightseeing

Kathmandu is an ancient city with many UNESCO World Heritage Sites.  Today we’ll visit 3 of them.

Pashupatinath Temple

The holiest Hindu temple in Nepal, dedicated to Lord Shiva in his form as Pashupati, protector of animals. The temple complex sits on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River, about 5 km from Thamel. Non-Hindus cannot enter the main temple, but the surrounding complex is open to all. From the eastern bank of the river, you can watch the cremation ghats and the daily rituals that have taken place here for centuries.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

About 13 km east of Kathmandu lies Bhaktapur, a medieval city that feels like it has barely changed in centuries. The Durbar Square is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the Palace of 55 Windows, the five-story Nyatapola Temple and the ornate Golden Gate. Behind the square, Pottery Square is still a working craft centre where local artisans shape clay by hand, just as they have done for generations.

Boudhanath Stupa

One of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Boudhanath is the spiritual heart of the Tibetan community in Kathmandu. Walking the kora, the circular path around the stupa, alongside monks, pilgrims and locals is an experience that stays with you. The whitewashed dome, the prayer flags and the steady hum of chanting make this place unlike anywhere else in the city.

A free day in the city. Visit any sites we missed, pick up souvenirs or find a quiet restaurant and do nothing at all.

Your international flight departs from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.

Goodbye friends! We hope you will cherish the memories we’ve made together forever. And see you on the next adventure! 🙏🏽

Hopefully you had a good first night and recovered a bit from the journey to Nepal.

After breakfast, we have our pre-trip meeting. We go through the itinerary together and check our gear. Missing something? Your guide will take you to the outdoor shops nearby to get everything sorted. Got everything you need? Take the rest of the day to recover from the jetlag, explore Thamel at your own pace or venture a little further into the city.

Sightseeing

Want to go for a small walk in the afternoon? Here are some ideas on walking distance from your hotel.

Swoyambhunath Stupa

Also known as the Monkey Temple, Swayambhunath sits on a hilltop about 20 minutes west of Thamel. The climb up the stone staircase is steep, but the reward is a panoramic view over Kathmandu and a stupa surrounded by dozens of resident monkeys. The all-seeing eyes painted on the tower watch over the city from every angle. One of the oldest religious sites in Nepal, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.

Kathmandu Durbar Square

About 15 minutes on foot from Thamel, Kathmandu Durbar Square is the historic heart of the old city. The square was the seat of the Malla and Shah kings for centuries and is still used today for religious ceremonies, including those of the Kumari, the living goddess whose residence is located within the complex. The temples, courtyards and wooden carvings date back to the 15th and 16th centuries. Some structures are still being restored after the 2015 earthquake, but the square remains one of the most compelling places in the city. Walk there from Thamel and take the back streets: the journey is half the experience.

Early morning, we board the jeep and head west towards the Annapurna region. The road winds through hills, river valleys and terraced farmland.

By late afternoon, we reach Dharapani, the gateway to the Nar Phu Valley. The restricted area permit is checked here. From this point on, the trail belongs to us.

Our Nar Phu Trek begins! A shorter walking day to ease into the trek.

We follow the Marsyangdi river upstream through forest and past stone villages until we reach Koto, where the trail into the Nar Phu Valley begins.

We leave the Annapurna Circuit behind and follow the Phu Khola river upstream through a narrow, shaded gorge. Small stone settlements appear along the way, places where the owners cook and eat together in the kitchen and chickens wander past the door. The trail climbs steeply in the final hour before we reach Meta on its high plateau.

We leave the forest behind. The landscape opens up into wide alpine terrain, snow-capped peaks appearing on all sides. We pass through the tiny outposts of Chyaku and Kyang. With yaks on the hillside, a football field, and a handful of teahouses. Then the final climb to Phu Village, tucked dramatically into the hillside at 4,200 m / 13,780 ft. Above the village, a 600-year-old monastery watches over everything.

Today’s a rest day. But an active one; walk high, sleep low. So we hike up to Himlung Base Camp at 4,900 m / 16,076 ft, with views of the Himlung Himal and the surrounding peaks.

We return to Phu by afternoon, to explore the village, visit the monastery and let the altitude settle.

We leave Phu and retrace our steps to Meta, then cross a bridge over the gorge to the other side. The trail climbs to Nar Phedi Monastery, a good place to rest and explore. From here, a shorter climb brings us to Nar Village: stone houses with colourful roofs, horses and dogs roaming the lanes, and a sky that feels enormous. This is the highest village in Nepal.

The big day! We start early. The climb to Kang La Pass is long and exposed, about six hours to the top at 5,320 m / 17,454 ft. At the top, the entire Annapurna range stretches out in front of us … 👀

Then the descent begins: steep, loose and demanding. Microspikes may be needed in icy conditions. We reach Ngawal by late afternoon. Tired, proud and ready to eat.

A long descent back into the Annapurna Circuit. The air gets thicker and the vegetation greener. We join the trail at Manang and continue down to Chame, where the altitude finally eases and the body sighs with relief.

Congrats! We crossed the Kang La Pass and completed the Nar Phu Valley. That was something special. 🙌

We swap our boots for a seat in the jeep and head down the valley. The road follows the Marsyangdi river downstream through terraced farmland and river gorges. By midday, we reach Besi Sahar.

We board the bus back to Kathmandu. Outside the window, the mountains slowly give way to hills, then valleys, then the familiar chaos of the city.

Back at the hotel: a hot shower, clean clothes and a soft bed. And the satisfaction of knowing what we just completed. 😁

A buffer day in case anything shifted along the way; weather on the pass, a rest day needed, a delayed jeep.

Everything went smoothly? The day is yours. Visit Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple or the ancient streets of Bhaktapur, or simply find a quiet spot to just relax.

Sightseeing in Kathmandu

Kathmandu is an ancient city with many UNESCO World Heritage Sites.  Want to explore the city today? Here are some ideas.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

About 13 km east of Kathmandu lies Bhaktapur, a medieval city that feels like it has barely changed in centuries. The Durbar Square is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the Palace of 55 Windows, the five-story Nyatapola Temple and the ornate Golden Gate. Behind the square, Pottery Square is still a working craft centre where local artisans shape clay by hand, just as they have done for generations.

Boudhanath Stupa

One of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Boudhanath is the spiritual heart of the Tibetan community in Kathmandu. Walking the kora, the circular path around the stupa, alongside monks, pilgrims and locals is an experience that stays with you. The whitewashed dome, the prayer flags and the steady hum of chanting make this place unlike anywhere else in the city.

Pashupatinath Temple

The holiest Hindu temple in Nepal, dedicated to Lord Shiva in his form as Pashupati, protector of animals. The temple complex sits on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River, about 5 km from Thamel. Non-Hindus cannot enter the main temple, but the surrounding complex is open to all. From the eastern bank of the river, you can watch the cremation ghats and the daily rituals that have taken place here for centuries.

Your international flight departs from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.

Goodbye friends! We hope you will cherish the memories we’ve made together forever. And see you on the next adventure! 🙏🏽

Hopefully you had a good first night and recovered a bit from the journey to Nepal.

After breakfast, we have our pre-trip meeting. We go through the itinerary together and check our gear. Missing something? Your guide will take you to the outdoor shops nearby to get everything sorted.

Got everything you need? Take the rest of the day to recover from the jetlag, explore Thamel at your own pace or venture a little further into the city.

Sightseeing

Want to go for a small walk in the afternoon? Here are some ideas on walking distance from your hotel.

Swoyambhunath Stupa

Also known as the Monkey Temple, Swayambhunath sits on a hilltop about 20 minutes west of Thamel. The climb up the stone staircase is steep, but the reward is a panoramic view over Kathmandu and a stupa surrounded by dozens of resident monkeys. The all-seeing eyes painted on the tower watch over the city from every angle. One of the oldest religious sites in Nepal, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.

Kathmandu Durbar Square

About 15 minutes on foot from Thamel, Kathmandu Durbar Square is the historic heart of the old city. The square was the seat of the Malla and Shah kings for centuries and is still used today for religious ceremonies, including those of the Kumari, the living goddess whose residence is located within the complex. The temples, courtyards and wooden carvings date back to the 15th and 16th centuries. Some structures are still being restored after the 2015 earthquake, but the square remains one of the most compelling places in the city. Walk there from Thamel and take the back streets: the journey is half the experience.

Early morning. Your guide picks up the group and you board the bus towards the Gorkha region. You drive through villages and lively bazaars until you reach Seti Khola in the Budhi Gandaki valley. The mountains are waiting.

The trek begins. The trail descends gently before climbing to a ridge near Almara. Through forest paths you reach Riden Gaon, then descend into the valley. From Lambesi, you follow the riverbed of the Budhi Gandaki.

After crossing the Machha river and Khola Besi, you reach the hot springs of Tatopani. A well-earned soak before continuing along a forest path to Dovan, just above the Budhi Gandaki. From here, the altitude begins to climb and the landscape shifts noticeably.

The trail climbs over a rocky ridge with views of Sringi Himal. Past terraced fields of maize, potatoes and millet, then through bamboo forests into the Nupri region. Tonight you sleep in the Buddhist village of Deng.

Countless Tibetan mani walls line the path today, their stones carved by hand with Buddhist texts. The trail winds through narrow gorges and colourful forests of spruce, oak and rhododendron. At the end of the day, you reach Namrung.

You climb gradually into alpine terrain. For the first time, Manaslu North and Manaslu itself appear on the horizon. You spend the night in Lho Gaon.

A shorter day, designed to let your body adjust. You walk through a gorge thick with moss and rhododendrons. There is time to breathe, look around and arrive slowly in Samagaon.

Walk high, sleep low. Today you stay in the area around Samagaon. The day hike takes you to Pungyen Gompa and the glacial lake Birendra Tal, past the monastery destroyed by an avalanche in 1953, all the way to the ice-blue lake at the foot of the glacier.

Another shorter day above the tree line. Past yaks, marmots and high mountain meadows. Samdo is a yak-herding village at the junction of three valleys. On a clear day, you might spot traders from Tibet.

From Samdo, you follow a wide path, cross the Budhi Gandaki and walk alongside a long mani wall. The trail climbs towards the Larkya glacier. You reach Larkya Phedi with views over a deep gorge. An early night. Tomorrow is the big day.

Today is the day. You start before sunrise and move steadily through ice and stone, past frozen lakes, towards the pass. At the top, prayer flags snap in the wind. You made it. The descent to Bhimtang is long, but the sense of achievement carries you through.

You cross a glacial stream and descend into a forest of rhododendrons and tall pines. With Manaslu still in view, you continue along the Dudh Khola through farmland to Tilje.

A fast descent towards the Marsyangdi valley. Through the forest, across a suspension bridge and onto the trail of the Annapurna Circuit. You spend the night in Chamje.

The final walking day. Tired, satisfied and with a pack full of memories, you reach the end point of the trek.

You board the bus back to Kathmandu.

In the evening, a well-earned dinner with the whole group. A toast to this adventure and the people you shared it with.

A free day in the city. It’s a great opportunity for sightseeing. There’s so much to explore! Or pick up souvenirs or find a quiet corner in one of the many restaurants nearby.

Sightseeing in Kathmandu

Kathmandu is an ancient city with many UNESCO World Heritage Sites.  Want to explore the city today? Here are some ideas.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

About 13 km east of Kathmandu lies Bhaktapur, a medieval city that feels like it has barely changed in centuries. The Durbar Square is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the Palace of 55 Windows, the five-story Nyatapola Temple and the ornate Golden Gate. Behind the square, Pottery Square is still a working craft centre where local artisans shape clay by hand, just as they have done for generations.

Boudhanath Stupa

One of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Boudhanath is the spiritual heart of the Tibetan community in Kathmandu. Walking the kora, the circular path around the stupa, alongside monks, pilgrims and locals is an experience that stays with you. The whitewashed dome, the prayer flags and the steady hum of chanting make this place unlike anywhere else in the city.

Pashupatinath Temple

The holiest Hindu temple in Nepal, dedicated to Lord Shiva in his form as Pashupati, protector of animals. The temple complex sits on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River, about 5 km from Thamel. Non-Hindus cannot enter the main temple, but the surrounding complex is open to all. From the eastern bank of the river, you can watch the cremation ghats and the daily rituals that have taken place here for centuries.

Your international flight departs from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.

Goodbye friends! We hope you will cherish the memories we’ve made together forever. And see you on the next adventure! 🙏🏽

Time to rest, adjust and prepare.

Today you meet your guide, go through the itinerary and check your gear. Missing something? Your guide will take you to the outdoor shops nearby to get everything sorted.

Got everything you need? Take the rest of the day to recover from the jetlag, explore Thamel at your own pace or venture a little further into the city.

Sightseeing

Want to go for a small walk in the afternoon? Here are some ideas on walking distance from your hotel.

Swoyambhunath Stupa

Also known as the Monkey Temple, Swayambhunath sits on a hilltop about 20 minutes west of Thamel. The climb up the stone staircase is steep, but the reward is a panoramic view over Kathmandu and a stupa surrounded by dozens of resident monkeys. The all-seeing eyes painted on the tower watch over the city from every angle. One of the oldest religious sites in Nepal, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.

Kathmandu Durbar Square

About 15 minutes on foot from Thamel, Kathmandu Durbar Square is the historic heart of the old city. The square was the seat of the Malla and Shah kings for centuries and is still used today for religious ceremonies, including those of the Kumari, the living goddess whose residence is located within the complex. The temples, courtyards and wooden carvings date back to the 15th and 16th centuries. Some structures are still being restored after the 2015 earthquake, but the square remains one of the most compelling places in the city. Walk there from Thamel and take the back streets: the journey is half the experience.

We board the bus to Pokhara. The road winds through hills, river valleys and terraced farmland. A journey that already feels like Nepal. By late afternoon, we arrive at our hotel. Dal bhat or pizza? The restaurants are right around the corner.

Early morning, we board our vehicle and drive from Pokhara to Kimche. This is where our trekking begins.

The trail climbs steadily through terraced fields and rhododendron forest until the stone houses and monastery of Ghandruk appear above us. This charming village is home to the Gurung people, known for the legendary Gorkha soldiers. In the afternoon, we explore the village at our own pace and settle in for the night.

We climb from Ghandruk through dense oak and rhododendron forests towards Tadapani. The higher we get, the closer Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre seem. A steady climb with a big reward at the top.

We leave Tadapani and trek through a quiet forest of moss-covered rocks towards Dobato. Views of the Annapurna range open up along the way. Dobato is simple, peaceful and basic. A good place to rest before the big morning.

Up before sunrise. We hike to Mulde Viewpoint for a panoramic view of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri and many more peaks, all at once. After breakfast in Dobato, we continue through rhododendron forests and small mountain villages to Ghorepani.

Headlamps on, and up we go! We climb to Poon Hill (3,210 m / 10,531 ft) in the dark and watch the snow-capped peaks turn from pink to gold at sunrise. If the small coffee shop is open, we can enjoy sunrise with a cup of coffee, chai tea or hot chocolate.

Then we go back to Ghorepani for breakfast, and descend to Ulleri.

It’s the final walking day of our trek. We walk down to Nayapul, board our vehicle and drive back to Pokhara.

The trek is done. Congrats! We walked through the heart of the Annapurna foothills, stood on two of its finest viewpoints and earned every step. 🎉

Pokhara feels warm and easy after the mountains.

The day is yours. Explore Lakeside, take a boat out on Phewa Lake or simply sit somewhere with the Annapurnas in view.

We head south. The landscape flattens and greens as we descend from the hills into the Terai, the lowland plain at the foot of the Himalayas. The air gets thicker and warmer. By the time we reach Sauraha, at the edge of Chitwan National Park, Nepal feels like a completely different country.

We spend the day in the jungle. Morning and afternoon, by boat on the Rapti River, on foot through the tall grass and by jeep through the park.

The one-horned rhinoceros is the most iconic resident of Chitwan. Gharials and mugger crocodiles bask on the riverbanks. Hundreds of rare bird species fill the trees. And somewhere in the tall grass, a Bengal tiger moves unseen. or … if we are very lucky, seen.

Early morning, we board the flight back to Kathmandu. Forty minutes in the air and the mountains are already behind us. Back at the same hotel where our trip began.

A free day in the city. Visit Boudhanath Stupa, the sacred Pashupatinath Temple or the ancient streets of Bhaktapur. Pick up souvenirs or find a quiet spot in one of the many restaurants nearby.

Exploring Kathmandu for at least 1 day is a must when in Nepal.

Sightseeing

Kathmandu is an ancient city with many UNESCO World Heritage Sites.  Want to explore the city today? Here are some ideas.

Pashupatinath Temple

The holiest Hindu temple in Nepal, dedicated to Lord Shiva in his form as Pashupati, protector of animals. The temple complex sits on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River, about 5 km from Thamel. Non-Hindus cannot enter the main temple, but the surrounding complex is open to all. From the eastern bank of the river, you can watch the cremation ghats and the daily rituals that have taken place here for centuries.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

About 13 km east of Kathmandu lies Bhaktapur, a medieval city that feels like it has barely changed in centuries. The Durbar Square is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the Palace of 55 Windows, the five-story Nyatapola Temple and the ornate Golden Gate. Behind the square, Pottery Square is still a working craft centre where local artisans shape clay by hand, just as they have done for generations.

Boudhanathh stupa

One of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Boudhanath is the spiritual heart of the Tibetan community in Kathmandu. Walking the kora, the circular path around the stupa, alongside monks, pilgrims and locals is an experience that stays with you. The whitewashed dome, the prayer flags and the steady hum of chanting make this place unlike anywhere else in the city.

Your international flight departs from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.

Goodbye friends! We hope you will cherish the memories we’ve made together forever. And see you on the next adventure!

Time to rest, adjust and prepare. Today is the pre-trip meeting. Together with your guide and group, you go through the itinerary and check that everyone has the right gear. Missing something? No problem. The streets around your hotel are lined with outdoor shops.

Sightseeing

Want to go for a small walk in the afternoon? Here are some ideas on walking distance from your hotel.

Swoyambhunath Stupa

Also known as the Monkey Temple, Swayambhunath sits on a hilltop about 20 minutes west of Thamel. The climb up the stone staircase is steep, but the reward is a panoramic view over Kathmandu and a stupa surrounded by dozens of resident monkeys. The all-seeing eyes painted on the tower watch over the city from every angle. One of the oldest religious sites in Nepal, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.

Kathmandu Durbar Square

About 15 minutes on foot from Thamel, Kathmandu Durbar Square is the historic heart of the old city. The square was the seat of the Malla and Shah kings for centuries and is still used today for religious ceremonies, including those of the Kumari, the living goddess whose residence is located within the complex. The temples, courtyards and wooden carvings date back to the 15th and 16th centuries. Some structures are still being restored after the 2015 earthquake, but the square remains one of the most compelling places in the city. Walk there from Thamel and take the back streets: the journey is half the experience.

In the morning, we board our jeep to Chamje (1,410 m / 4,626 ft), the starting point of our trekking. The drive takes about 7 to 8 hours. Gradually, the scenery changes: from the bustle of the city to rolling hills, rice terraces, and more rugged nature.

The adventure has begun! We start the trek with a steady climb along the wild Marsyangdi River. After passing through Tal and Dharapani, where the Manaslu and Annapurna routes converge, we hike onward to Bagarchhap (2,160 m / 7,087 ft). A quiet mountain village surrounded by apple trees, dal bhat, and views of snow-capped peaks.

Today, we climb through forests and along the river toward Chame (2,650 m / 8,694 ft). Along the way, we can hear the sound of yak bells, see Annapurna II suddenly loom in the distance, and meet locals with Tibetan roots. In Chame, a small hot spring awaits our tired legs.

We start early, following a rugged path through a narrow valley filled with cliffs, forests, and rivers. Crossing suspension bridges, we ascend to Upper Pisang (3,300 m / 10,827 ft), a quiet mountain village of stone houses, a monastery, and magical mountain views.

Explore Pisang

Pisang is a beautiful place to explore. From your teahouse it’s a small hike to the Monastery. Well worth the visit!

Visit the monastery

The monastery in Upper Pisang dates back around 250 years and is one of the oldest in the Annapurna region. It sits above the village on a ridge, with views that make the climb up worth every step. Inside, butter lamps flicker in front of ancient thangkas. Time moves differently up here.

We hike through the dry, high-altitude Manang district today. This region lies in the rain shadow of the Annapurna massif, which provides clear weather and endless views. We follow one of two routes to Manang (3,540 m / 11,614 ft), situated deep within the impressive high mountains.

We take it easy today. No major elevation gain, but plenty of time to acclimatize. If you like, we can go for a short hike. Or, just kick-back and relax in the village.

Day hike

Climb high, sleep low. It helps your body acclimatize. Today, the group can hike to one  of these lakes.

Gangapurna Lake

On your acclimatisation day in Manang, there is an optional hike up to Gangapurna Lake. It's located at an altitude of approximately 3,700 meters near the village of Manang.

Ice Lake

Or, the more challenging hike to Ice Lake at around 4,600 m / 15,092 ft. It takes about three to four hours to climb and rewards you with a glacial lake and a panorama over the entire Manang Valley.

After our rest day in Manang, we push on toward Tilicho Lake. We pass the quiet village of Khangsar and climb along rugged slopes. By the end of the day, we reach Shree Kharka: cold, silent, and pure. Time to recharge.

We trek higher into the mountains, passing a deserted monastery and crossing a steep ridge. After an exciting descent, we reach Tilicho Base Camp (4,200 m / 13,780 ft). Raw, silent, and impressive.

Before you crawl into your sleeping bag, we step outside. At 4,150 m / 13,615 ft, far from any city light, the sky above Tilicho Base Camp is vast and uninterrupted. Stars from one ridge to the next … 🤩

We set off early, as the wind picks up quickly here. In about 3 to 4 hours, we climb to Tilicho Lake (4,920 m / 16,141 ft). Ice-blue water surrounded by vast emptiness. Magic. Afterward, we return to Base Camp, where we soak it all in.

We leave Tilicho and return to the Annapurna route. The path ascends gradually, and the landscape becomes more rugged. Less green, more stone. In the afternoon, we reach Yak Kharka (4,000 m / 13,123 ft), a quiet place amidst yaks, wind, and mountain peaks.

We continue our slow ascent. The air gets thinner, and every step feels heavier. We stop for lunch at Thorong Phedi (4,450 m / 14,600 ft) before climbing further to High Camp (4,850 m / 15,192 ft). Less sleep, perhaps, but a head start on the pass.

Today is the day: we cross the Thorong La (5,416 m / 17,770 ft). Up early, moving slowly but steadily. Every step counts. At the summit, the prayer flags flutter in the wind. We made it!

Afterward, we descend to Muktinath: warm water, more air, and a shared sense of victory.

Today, we trek down to Kagbeni and then follow the Kali Gandaki river to Jomsom. This is a large town with many facilities. It is also headquarter and official town for the Mustang district, where all the district government offices are present.

We rise early for the jeep ride to Pokhara. Heading toward warmer air, soft beds, and the silhouette of the Annapurnas reflected in the lake. We’ve reached the Tilicho Lake, and we’ve crossed the Thorong La pass!

Cheers to this beautiful adventure and the memories we’ve made.

Mountains set their own schedule. If we needed an extra dag to cross Thorong La Pass, or if anything else shifted along the way, this extra day gives us the buffer we need.

Everything went smoothly? The day is ours. Explore Lakeside, take a boat out on Phewa Lake or simply sit somewhere with the Annapurnas in view.

We board the bus back to Kathmandu. A long but easy ride through the hills, with the mountains slowly giving way to the valley.

A buffer day in case anything shifted along the way; weather on the pass, a rest day needed, a delayed jeep.

Everything went smoothly? The day is yours.

Sightseeing

Kathmandu is an ancient city with many UNESCO World Heritage Sites.  Want to explore the city today? Here are some ideas.

Boudhanath Stupa

One of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Boudhanath is the spiritual heart of the Tibetan community in Kathmandu. Walking the kora, the circular path around the stupa, alongside monks, pilgrims and locals is an experience that stays with you. The whitewashed dome, the prayer flags and the steady hum of chanting make this place unlike anywhere else in the city.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

About 13 km east of Kathmandu lies Bhaktapur, a medieval city that feels like it has barely changed in centuries. The Durbar Square is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the Palace of 55 Windows, the five-story Nyatapola Temple and the ornate Golden Gate. Behind the square, Pottery Square is still a working craft centre where local artisans shape clay by hand, just as they have done for generations.

Pashupatinath Temple

The holiest Hindu temple in Nepal, dedicated to Lord Shiva in his form as Pashupati, protector of animals. The temple complex sits on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River, about 5 km from Thamel. Non-Hindus cannot enter the main temple, but the surrounding complex is open to all. From the eastern bank of the river, you can watch the cremation ghats and the daily rituals that have taken place here for centuries.

Your international flight departs from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.

Goodbye friends! We hope you will cherish the memories we’ve made together forever. And see you on the next adventure!

Time to rest, adjust and prepare.

Today you meet your guide, go through the itinerary and check your gear. Missing something? Your guide will take you to the outdoor shops nearby to get everything sorted.

Got everything you need? Take the rest of the day to recover from the jetlag, explore Thamel at your own pace or venture a little further into the city.

Today the adventure begins. Depending on the season, we fly from Kathmandu or Ramechhap to Lukla. Flying from Ramechhap? Then the day starts early. Very early. Between 1:00 and 3:00 in the morning, we get on the bus. From Kathmandu it’s a little more relaxed, with an early morning start.

The flight to Lukla is an experience in itself. A small plane, spectacular mountain peaks and a runway you won’t forget in a hurry. After landing, the walk really begins, heading towards Phakding. It’s a relaxed, pleasant walk along the Dudh Koshi river.

Today we walk to Namche Bazaar, the beating heart of the Everest region. Along the way, we cross the Dudh Khosi river several times via impressive suspension bridges decorated with colourful prayer flags. After passing through the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park, the trail climbs steeply upward. The views along the way more than make up for it.

Namche itself is a lively mountain village that surprises many first-time visitors. It has everything: good restaurants, shops and even bakeries. Take some time to explore it at your own pace.

A rest day, but certainly not a dull one. Your body needs time to adjust to the altitude, and today we take that time. A short hike to the museum or the viewpoint at Syangboche is a great way to spend the day. The views across the Khumbu peaks are simply spectacular. Especially at sunrise and sunset.

Today we leave the busy trail towards Base Camp and take a quieter path. We climb up via Khumjung Hill and then descend through a wide valley towards the Dudh Khosi river. Along the way we pass a chorten on a mountain ridge and the village of Mohang, the birthplace of a reincarnated lama said to have introduced Buddhism to the Khumbu region. A place with a lot of history.

Today we walk through a beautiful rhododendron forest. In spring, it’s an explosion of deep pink and green. The trail runs past a waterfall and through a small village before we reach Dole. The altitude is now really starting to make itself felt, and the landscape becomes wilder and quieter.

A steady climb today, along the Dudh Khosi river. We pass a chorten and walk through small villages. The surroundings grow quieter and more rugged as you gain altitude. Machhermo itself is a small, remote settlement.

This is a day that will stay with you. We leave the inhabited world behind and step into the rugged high mountains. The trail passes chortens on a mountain ridge, with views of Kantega (6,782 m) and the mighty Cho Oyu (8,188 m), the sixth-highest mountain in the world.

Then we reach the Ngozumpa Glacier — the longest glacier in the Himalaya. We walk along its edge and pass the first and second sacred lakes before arriving in Gokyo, on the shore of the third lake, Dudh Pokhari. The mirror-smooth surface reflects the mountain peaks all around.

An early start today. Before the sun rises, we step outside and begin the ascent of Gokyo Ri. It’s about two hours of climbing at a steady pace, until we reach the summit, marked by an enormous tangle of prayer flags.

In clear weather, the view from the top is beyond words. Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, four of the highest mountains in the world, right in front of you. And below you, the Ngozumpa Glacier cuts through the landscape like a giant scar. These are views you normally only see in expedition photographs.

A short day today. And intentionally so. We cross the Ngozumpa Glacier and follow the mountain wall to the small settlement of Dragnag. The afternoon is yours to rest and recharge. Because tomorrow we cross the Cho La pass.

This is probably the toughest day of the entire trip, and also an unforgettable one. The Cho La pass is not technical or difficult, but it is steep and can be slippery and icy. It requires concentration.

At the top of the pass, colourful prayer flags flutter in the wind. In clear conditions, the views here are breathtaking. You can see the pyramid-shaped Ama Dablam, Cholatse, Lobuche East, a panorama you won’t forget. After crossing a few glacier crevasses, we descend to Dzonglha, from where you look out over an endless mountain landscape.

After the intense day yesterday, this is a welcome, more relaxed day. We descend from Dzonglha via a green trail with views of Lobuche Peak and follow the wide river valley to Lobuche. The rest of the day is yours, for a good book, or simply soaking up the views.

Today we reach another highlight of this adventurous trek: Everest Base Camp. The trail leads through the former Gorak Shep lake, past memorial monuments and over rocky moraine. The thin air makes itself felt. So we take our time.

At Base Camp, you see the colourful tents of expeditions against a backdrop of grey rock and ice. And the giant Nuptse, Khumbutse and Pumori towering above you. After exploring Base Camp, we make our way back to Gorak Shep.

Another early start. In the dark, in the cold. The temperature here can easily drop to -10 or even -15 degrees Celsius. But when you reach the top of Kala Patthar and Everest unfolds before you, the cold somehow seems to disappear for a bit. Mount Everest feels even closer than you might have imagined.

After this moment, we descend to Pheriche. For a warm meal and hopefully a good night’s sleep.

The descent begins. We pass Pangboche and the oldest monastery in the region, where the skull and bones of a yeti are said to be kept… Then we continue to the monastery at Tengboche, high on a mountain ridge with views of Ama Dablam, before returning to the familiar surroundings of Namche Bazaar.

Today is our last day in the mountains. We walk back to Lukla, the place where everything began.

You didn’t take the shortest route to Base Camp. You made an incredible journey via Gokyo, over the Cho La pass and through places very few people ever reach.

From the air, you get one last look at the peaks you’ve spent the past weeks getting to know up close. After landing in Kathmandu or Ramechhap, our team takes you to your hotel.

Mountain flights depend on the weather and delays can happen. If the flight from Lukla is delayed, this extra day gives you the buffer you need.

Smooth flight back? The day is yours. It’s a great opportunity for sightseeing. There’s so much to explore in the Kathmandu Valley!

Sightseeing

Kathmandu is an ancient city with many UNESCO World Heritage Sites.  Want to explore the city today? Here are some ideas.

Boudhanath Stupa

One of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Boudhanath is the spiritual heart of the Tibetan community in Kathmandu. Walking the kora, the circular path around the stupa, alongside monks, pilgrims and locals is an experience that stays with you. The whitewashed dome, the prayer flags and the steady hum of chanting make this place unlike anywhere else in the city.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

About 13 km east of Kathmandu lies Bhaktapur, a medieval city that feels like it has barely changed in centuries. The Durbar Square is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the Palace of 55 Windows, the five-story Nyatapola Temple and the ornate Golden Gate. Behind the square, Pottery Square is still a working craft centre where local artisans shape clay by hand, just as they have done for generations.

Pashupatinath Temple

The holiest Hindu temple in Nepal, dedicated to Lord Shiva in his form as Pashupati, protector of animals. The temple complex sits on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River, about 5 km from Thamel. Non-Hindus cannot enter the main temple, but the surrounding complex is open to all. From the eastern bank of the river, you can watch the cremation ghats and the daily rituals that have taken place here for centuries.

Your international flight departs from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.

Goodbye friends! We hope you will cherish the memories we’ve made together forever. And see you on the next adventure!

We leave Kathmandu and head west towards Pokhara. The city chaos gives way to green hills and open countryside. A long but rewarding drive with the Annapurna range appearing on the horizon as we approach the lake city.

We enter the Lower Mustang, gateway to the Upper Mustang and one of Nepal’s most dramatic landscapes. Ancient monasteries, traditional Thakali villages and the deep Kali Gandaki gorge pass by the window. The sacred temple of Muktinath is one of the highlights along the way. The landscape shifts from subtropical green to something altogether more austere.

The road climbs higher and the landscape becomes wilder. The Upper Mustang has a distinctly Tibetan character. Vast, rugged and extraordinary.

The destination is Lo Manthang: a walled city on Nepalese soil, right on the border with Tibet. Closed to the outside world until 1992, today only accessible with a special permit. We spend a full day here to experience the Tibetan atmosphere and, for those who want to, drive further towards the Chinese border.

We drive back through the mountains towards Pokhara. Temperatures rise, greenery returns and the snow-capped peaks remain in view the entire way. A night in our 4-star hotel in Pokhara — time to wash off the dust and rest.

We head south into the jungle. The Terai lowlands are a world apart from the mountains: flat, warm and teeming with wildlife. We spend a full day on safari at a top-class resort on the banks of the Rapti River — by boat, on foot and by jeep. One-horned rhinos, crocodiles and gharials are almost certain. A Bengal tiger is always possible.

A spectacular mountain road brings us back to Kathmandu. Hundreds of bends, narrow passes and no heavy traffic. A final full day in the city with a guided tour of Kathmandu’s highlights. Then the flight home, with a full head and heart.

If the skies are clear on approach, the Himalayas appear above the city like a wall at the edge of the world. Then the plane descends and Kathmandu unfolds: woodsmoke, incense, prayer flags, horns, chaos, life. What is the chaos in your own life?

A transfer takes us to our hotel in the city. We check in, freshen up and come together for a welcome dinner. The first meal. The first evening. The Inner Expedition has begun.

Hotel Barahi Kathmandu

Hotel Barahi Kathmandu is a five-star hotel on the edge of the travelers neighborhood Thamel, steps away from the neoclassical Garden of Dreams and within easy walking distance of the ancient Kathmandu Durbar Square. The location strikes the right balance: quiet enough to escape the bustle of the city, central enough to explore it on foot.

After breakfast, we drive to Namo Buddha. Hills, terraced fields, the city falling away. At the top, the monastery appears. Prayer flags. Chanting. Something shifts.

This place carries a story of pure compassion. We slow down, let the silence do its work and go deeper in an optional Kundalini session. The evening ends with dinner alongside the monks. Simple food. A sky full of stars.

Guest House at Namo Buddha Monastery

The guest house sits directly on the grounds of Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery, one of Nepal’s most sacred Buddhist sites. At roughly 1,500 metres, the hilltop setting offers open views over the surrounding valleys.

This is as close to monastery life as you can get: meals are shared with the monks, morning prayers start at 6 AM and the rhythm of the day follows the monastic schedule.

Today we stay. A day of silence. No agenda, no words, just presence. An optional Kundalini session for those who want to go deeper. For the rest: hike, sit, breathe, look at the mountains.

In the evening, we gather again. Not to talk, but to arrive. What lives between the inhale and the exhale? Today may have offered a first glimpse.

Guest House at Namo Buddha Monastery

The guest house sits directly on the grounds of Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery, one of Nepal’s most sacred Buddhist sites. At roughly 1,500 metres, the hilltop setting offers open views over the surrounding valleys.

This is as close to monastery life as you can get: meals are shared with the monks, morning prayers start at 6 AM and the rhythm of the day follows the monastic schedule.

After breakfast, we say goodbye to the monastery and drive back to Kathmandu. From the domestic airport, a short flight takes us to Pokhara, about 30 minutes, with the Himalayan range visible from the window on a clear day.

Pokhara receives us differently than Kathmandu. Quieter. Softer. And then there is Phewa Lake. Still, mirror-flat, reflecting the snow-capped peaks above. The outer world and the inner world, side by side. What does the water show when you look long enough?

TBD

Follows

After breakfast, we meet our porters and drive into the mountains. About 45 minutes later, we step out and … there it is. The foothills of the Himalaya, all around us. The air is cleaner here. The pace slower. The body notices before anything else does. It’s moving.

The trail descends through rhododendron forest, the sacred double-peaked Machhapuchhre rising ahead. With every step, the ground feels more solid. The breath deeper. By afternoon, we arrive in Landruk. Simple rooms, local food, a warm welcome.

Homestay

During the trek we sleep in homestay’s: simple mountain homes with firm mattresses, pillows and blankets against the cold, and dal bhat in the shared dining room.

Expect a twin room, a shared bathroom and cold water. A hot shower, wifi and charging your electronics is usually possible, for a small extra fee. And then there is the warm fire in the dining room, friendly hospitality and views no hotel can match. This is the Himalaya.

PS: even though pillows and blankets are provided, we recommend bringing your own warm sleeping bag. The nights at altitude get cold, and your own bag makes a real difference. After booking, you’ll receive a detailed packing list from By Mountain People that helps you prepare for both the trek and the nights in the lodges.

The trail drops to the Modi Khola river, crosses a suspension bridge and climbs again through terraced fields and Gurung villages until Ghandruk appears on the hillside. Stone houses, narrow alleys, mountains close enough to feel rather than just see.

Walking through a place like this asks a quiet question: what does home really mean to you?

Homestay

During the trek we sleep in homestay’s: simple mountain homes with firm mattresses, pillows and blankets against the cold, and dal bhat in the shared dining room.

Expect a twin room, a shared bathroom and cold water. A hot shower, wifi and charging your electronics is usually possible, for a small extra fee. And then there is the warm fire in the dining room, friendly hospitality and views no hotel can match. This is the Himalaya.

PS: even though pillows and blankets are provided, we recommend bringing your own warm sleeping bag. The nights at altitude get cold, and your own bag makes a real difference. After booking, you’ll receive a detailed packing list from By Mountain People that helps you prepare for both the trek and the nights in the lodges.

After breakfast, we walk down to Nayapul, the final steps of the hike. Then we board our vehicle and drive back to Pokhara.

In the afternoon, we reach a Tibetan monastery and refugee camp on the outskirts of the city. From mountain stillness to human story. The transition is part of the journey. What has moved in you these past days, in the body, the heart, the mind?

Tashi Palkhel

The guest house sits directly on the grounds of Tashi Palkhel, in one of Nepal’s most Tibetan Refugee Camps.

Again, just like at Namo Buddha, this is as close to monastery life as you can get: meals are shared with the monks, morning prayers start at 6 AM and the rhythm of the day follows the monastic schedule.

Today we spend the day in stillness at Tashi Palkhel. Rest, breathe, write. Attend an optional Kundalini session with Rosalie, join a Buddhist ceremony in the monastery, or contribute to the community through a donation or voluntary work.

No agenda. Just presence.

Tashi Palkhel

The guest house sits directly on the grounds of Tashi Palkhel, in one of Nepal’s most Tibetan Refugee Camps.

Again, just like at Namo Buddha, this is as close to monastery life as you can get: meals are shared with the monks, morning prayers start at 6 AM and the rhythm of the day follows the monastic schedule.

We leave Pokhara behind and transfer back to Kathmandu. The mountains slowly give way to the valley. The inner journey and the outer world begin to meet again.

How do we carry what we have found here, back into the noise, the pace, the ordinary?

Hotel Barahi Kathmandu

Hotel Barahi Kathmandu is a five-star hotel on the edge of the travelers neighborhood Thamel, steps away from the neoclassical Garden of Dreams and within easy walking distance of the ancient Kathmandu Durbar Square. The location strikes the right balance: quiet enough to escape the bustle of the city, central enough to explore it on foot.

After breakfast, we visit Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa. Two of Nepal’s most sacred sites, and two very different encounters with the same truth.

At Pashupatinath, the cremation fires burn at the edge of the Bagmati River. Life and death, side by side, without apology. At Boudhanath, we walk the kora, the circular path around the stupa, alongside monks and pilgrims. Every step a small letting go.

This is the theme of the day: impermanence. What the river carries away. What the circle brings back.

Hotel Barahi Kathmandu

Hotel Barahi Kathmandu is a five-star hotel on the edge of the travelers neighborhood Thamel, steps away from the neoclassical Garden of Dreams and within easy walking distance of the ancient Kathmandu Durbar Square. The location strikes the right balance: quiet enough to escape the bustle of the city, central enough to explore it on foot.

This morning, we gather one last time before the journey home. Rosalie and Govinda close the expedition with a final ritual, a small gesture of blessing for the road ahead.

You do not leave as the same person who arrived. Something was left behind. Something was found. The Inner Expedition does not end today, it continues in how you return.

Kort het afscheid en de terugkomsessie benoemen?

Hopefully you had a good first night and recovered a bit from the journey to Nepal.

After breakfast, we have our pre-trip meeting. We go through the itinerary together and check our gear. Missing something? Your guide will take you to the outdoor shops nearby to get everything sorted.

Got everything you need? Take the rest of the day to recover from the jetlag, explore Thamel at your own pace or venture a little further into the city.

Sightseeing

Want to go for a small walk in the afternoon? Here are some ideas on walking distance from your hotel.

Swoyambhunath Stupa

Also known as the Monkey Temple, Swayambhunath sits on a hilltop about 20 minutes west of Thamel. The climb up the stone staircase is steep, but the reward is a panoramic view over Kathmandu and a stupa surrounded by dozens of resident monkeys. The all-seeing eyes painted on the tower watch over the city from every angle. One of the oldest religious sites in Nepal, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.

Kathmandu Durbar Square

About 15 minutes on foot from Thamel, Kathmandu Durbar Square is the historic heart of the old city. The square was the seat of the Malla and Shah kings for centuries and is still used today for religious ceremonies, including those of the Kumari, the living goddess whose residence is located within the complex. The temples, courtyards and wooden carvings date back to the 15th and 16th centuries. Some structures are still being restored after the 2015 earthquake, but the square remains one of the most compelling places in the city. Walk there from Thamel and take the back streets: the journey is half the experience.

An early start. We board the tourist bus to Pokhara. The ride takes about 6 hours through hills, river valleys and terraced farmland.

Private vehicles take us from Pokhara to Nayapul. From there, the walking begins.

We follow the Modi Khola river to Birethanti, then climb steadily through Hille and Tikhedhunga. The final section is a steep stone staircase up to the Magar village of Ulleri. Hard work on day one. The views make it worth it.

The trail eases. We climb gently through oak and rhododendron forests, past Banthanti and Nangethanti, until we reach Ghorepani. A shorter day, well earned.

Up before sunrise. A one-hour climb to Poon Hill (3,210 m / 10,531 ft), where the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges light up in the morning sky.

Back to Ghorepani for breakfast, then on through pine and rhododendron forests to Tadapani.

A steep descent through a rhododendron forest, easing as we approach the Gurung village of Gurjung. From there, an easy walk brings us to Chhomrong, perched on a ridge with views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre.

The trail drops steeply on stone steps to the Chhomrong Khola river, then crosses a swaying suspension bridge. On the other side, we climb through small settlements into the upper Modi valley. Doban comes into view below. The mountains are getting closer.

The trail crosses streams and an avalanche chute, passing a small forest temple where locals leave offerings of flowers and leaves. A rocky climb through a steep ravine leads past Hinku Cave and across glacier remnants to Deorali. The Sanctuary is close.

First, the trail climbs to Machhapuchhre Base Camp. Then two more hours to Annapurna Base Camp.

YES! We made it. 🎉

The mountains close in on all sides. Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Gangapurna, Machhapuchhre. We are in the middle of it all.

The same trail back down. We drop 1,700 metres to the bank of the Modi Khola and spend the night at Bamboo.

Back through Chhomrong and down to Jhinu Danda. At the bottom of the valley, a natural hot spring sits beside a raging river. After ten days of walking together, we ease in, enjoy the warm water and celebrate that we made it to ABC.

An easy walk along the Modi Khola to Birethanti and on to Nayapul. It’s one of the most relaxed sections of the entire route.

From Nayapul, we drive back to Pokhara in 1.5 hrs.

An early start. We board the bus back to Kathmandu.

A free day in the city. It’s a great opportunity for sightseeing. There’s so much to explore! Or pick up souvenirs or find a quiet corner in one of the many restaurants nearby.

In the evening, the group heads out for dinner together. A toast to this great adventure we shared!

Sightseeing

Kathmandu is an ancient city with many UNESCO World Heritage Sites.  Want to explore the city today? Here are some ideas.

Visit Boudhanath Stupa

One of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Boudhanath is the spiritual heart of the Tibetan community in Kathmandu. Walking the kora, the circular path around the stupa, alongside monks, pilgrims and locals is an experience that stays with you. The whitewashed dome, the prayer flags and the steady hum of chanting make this place unlike anywhere else in the city.

Visit Bhaktapur Durbar Square

About 13 km east of Kathmandu lies Bhaktapur, a medieval city that feels like it has barely changed in centuries. The Durbar Square is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the Palace of 55 Windows, the five-story Nyatapola Temple and the ornate Golden Gate. Behind the square, Pottery Square is still a working craft centre where local artisans shape clay by hand, just as they have done for generations.

Visit Pashupatinath Temple

The holiest Hindu temple in Nepal, dedicated to Lord Shiva in his form as Pashupati, protector of animals. The temple complex sits on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River, about 5 km from Thamel. Non-Hindus cannot enter the main temple, but the surrounding complex is open to all. From the eastern bank of the river, you can watch the cremation ghats and the daily rituals that have taken place here for centuries.

Your international flight departs from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.

Goodbye friends! We hope you will cherish the memories we’ve made together forever. And see you on the next adventure!

Hopefully you had a good first night and recovered a bit from the journey to Nepal.

After breakfast, we have our pre-trip meeting. We go through the itinerary together and check your gear. Missing something? Your guide will take you to the outdoor shops nearby to get everything sorted.

Got everything you need? Take the rest of the day to recover from the jetlag, explore Thamel or venture a little further into the city.

Sightseeing

Want to go for a small walk in the afternoon? Here are some ideas on walking distance from your hotel.

Swoyambhunath Stupa

Also known as the Monkey Temple, Swayambhunath sits on a hilltop about 20 minutes west of Thamel. The climb up the stone staircase is steep, but the reward is a panoramic view over Kathmandu and a stupa surrounded by dozens of resident monkeys. The all-seeing eyes painted on the tower watch over the city from every angle. One of the oldest religious sites in Nepal, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.

Kathmandu Durbar Square

About 15 minutes on foot from Thamel, Kathmandu Durbar Square is the historic heart of the old city. The square was the seat of the Malla and Shah kings for centuries and is still used today for religious ceremonies, including those of the Kumari, the living goddess whose residence is located within the complex. The temples, courtyards and wooden carvings date back to the 15th and 16th centuries. Some structures are still being restored after the 2015 earthquake, but the square remains one of the most compelling places in the city. Walk there from Thamel and take the back streets: the journey is half the experience.

We take an early flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, a bustling town in the western Terai. The south of Nepal. It’s hot, flat and alive with colour. A world away from what is coming. We spend the night here, ready for the early morning flight tomorrow.

An early morning flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal, a short airstrip surrounded by mountains. The moment the plane lands, the remoteness is palpable. We meet our camping crew and porters, load the bags and begin walking to Dunai, the administrative centre of the Dolpa district.

The trek begins in earnest. We follow the Suli Gad river upstream through pine forest and small settlements. The valley narrows as we climb. Chhepka is a quiet settlement at the edge of wilder terrain.

We continue upstream through increasingly dramatic gorges. Waterfalls appear on the cliffs above. The forest deepens. Saijol is a small settlement where the outside world feels very far away.

A shorter day with an extraordinary ending. The trail rounds a ridge and Phoksundo Lake appears below, a vast body of impossibly turquoise water set against bare rock walls and the first snow. Nepal’s deepest lake. Nothing can prepare you for it. We camp near Ringmo village.

We have a full day by the lake. Visit the ancient Bon monastery above the village, walk to the waterfall at the lake’s edge or simply sit and watch the light move across the water. The altitude here is real. Rest is not optional.

We leave the lake behind and follow the Phoksundo Khola river north into wilder terrain. The landscape strips back to rock and sky. Sallaghari is a basic camp at the edge of the high plateau.

A long, steep climb to the camp below the Kang La Pass. The air thins noticeably. Above us, the first great pass of the trek. We eat early, rest and prepare. Tomorrow demands everything.

Up before dawn. The climb to Kang La is steep and exposed. Loose rock, thin air, views that grow with every step. At the summit, the entire Upper Dolpo plateau unfolds below. The descent to Shey Gompa is long but extraordinary. Shey Gompa, known as the Crystal Mountain monastery, is one of the most sacred sites in all of Dolpo. We spend two nights here.

A day to explore and breathe. The monastery complex is ancient and still active. Monks live and practice here year-round. Walk up to the Crystal Mountain viewpoint, visit the caves above the gompa or simply sit in the courtyard and let the silence do its work.

The second pass. The Shey La is demanding after days at altitude but shorter than the Kang La. On the other side, the trail descends to Namgung Gompa — a monastery built directly into a cliff face, one of the most dramatic sights of the entire trek.

We descend from the monastery and follow the trail through remote valleys to Saldang, one of the largest villages in the Dolpo region. Stone houses, prayer flags and people who have lived here for generations with almost no contact with the outside world.

We climb again, passing through Yangjer Monastery on the way to Musi Village. It’s one of the last settlements before the Tibetan border. The views here are vast and the silence is total.

The third pass today. The Muri La is a long approach across open plateau before the final climb to the summit. The descent to Simen is steep and rewarding.

Three passes crossed. Three more to go! 💪

A shorter day through wide, open terrain. The landscape here is unmistakably trans-Himalaya. Dry, vast and almost lunar. Tinje is a traditional village with a monastery.

We leave the village behind and climb steadily to the high camp below the Choi La. The nomad camps along the way are a reminder that this plateau has been home to herders for centuries.

Tomorrow is another pass day.

The fourth pass! The Choi La is challenging but the views from the summit are extraordinary. The descent to Tokyu winds through pastureland and high meadows where yaks graze in silence.

A relaxed day through open terrain. We move at a gentler pace, following the trail through wide valleys with big skies. A good day to look around and take it all in before the next push.

The fourth pass and the second highest of the trek. The Jhyargo La is a serious crossing. A long approach, a demanding summit and a descent to the yak pastures of Yak Kharkha. Camp tonight in the open at nearly 4,800 m.

Today’s the day of the fifth  pass. We cross the Mola and descend to Chharka Bhot, a village that marks the end of the most remote section of the trek. We spend two nights here.

This is a day to explore Chharka and its Bon Buddhist monastery. Or, we can visit the caves above the village, talk to the monks or simply walk the surrounding hills. The hardest section is behind us. Your body deserves a full day of rest.

We leave Chharka and follow wide, flat trails upstream. Streams and nomad camps appear along the way. The terrain is raw and open. Camp tonight at Molumsumna, high on the plateau.

Today’s we cross the sixth and highest pass of the entire trek. The Junbeni Pass demands everything the previous weeks have been building towards. At 5,550 m, the views stretch beyond anything we have seen so far. The descent to Ghaldeng Ghuldung is steep and long. We made it!

Congrats! Six passes crossed. The full Upper Dolpo traverse is complete. This is something very few people in the world have ever done. 💪

The landscape begins to shift. We are entering the Mustang region now. It’s drier, more open, with the distinctive red and ochre cliffs that characterise this part of Nepal. Sangda is a traditional Tibetan village where the culture feels as old as the mountains.

We continue descending through rocky terrain and wide valleys. The Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges appear on the horizon. After weeks in the remote west, familiar peaks feel like old friends.

Today is our final walking day.

We follow the Kali Gandaki river, the deepest gorge on earth, south to Jomsom. The wind picks up in the afternoon, as it always does here. Tonight we sleep in a teahouse for the first time in weeks.

Early morning we board a jeep to Pokhara.  To a hot shower and a soft bed.

We catch the bus back to Kathmandu. In the evening, a well-earned dinner together. A toast to this extraordinary adventure and the people we shared it with.

A free day in the city. It’s a great opportunity for sightseeing. There’s so much to explore! Or pick up souvenirs or find a quiet corner in one of the many restaurants nearby.

Sightseeing  in Kathmandu

Kathmandu is an ancient city with many UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Want to explore the city today? Here are some ideas.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

About 13 km east of Kathmandu lies Bhaktapur, a medieval city that feels like it has barely changed in centuries. The Durbar Square is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the Palace of 55 Windows, the five-story Nyatapola Temple and the ornate Golden Gate. Behind the square, Pottery Square is still a working craft centre where local artisans shape clay by hand, just as they have done for generations.

Boudhanath Stupa

One of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Boudhanath is the spiritual heart of the Tibetan community in Kathmandu. Walking the kora, the circular path around the stupa, alongside monks, pilgrims and locals is an experience that stays with you. The whitewashed dome, the prayer flags and the steady hum of chanting make this place unlike anywhere else in the city.

Pashupatinath Temple

The holiest Hindu temple in Nepal, dedicated to Lord Shiva in his form as Pashupati, protector of animals. The temple complex sits on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River, about 5 km from Thamel. Non-Hindus cannot enter the main temple, but the surrounding complex is open to all. From the eastern bank of the river, you can watch the cremation ghats and the daily rituals that have taken place here for centuries.

If this is the final day of your trip in Nepal, your international flight departs from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.

Goodbye friends! We hope you will cherish the memories we’ve made together forever. And see you on the next adventure! 🙏🏽