This is the ideal trek for those wanting to get "off the beaten track" and experience the beauty of the Himalaya without the crowds. On this Annapaurna 15-day trek we steer away from the more heavily populated trails, choosing instead a route, which winds through beautiful rhododendron forests, alpine meadows and boasts spectacular mountain views.
Our adventure begins when we arrive at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan airport and transfer to the domestic airport for a spectacular 30-minute flight to Pokhara. Pokhara is a beautiful town set on the banks of the Phewa Lake. It is smaller and much less hectic than Kathmandu and is the perfect starting point for our trek. Whilst in Pokhara we stay at the delightful Hotel Stupa run by Mrs Raj Kumari and her family. Upon arrival you will be free to relax in the hotel after your journey or explore this friendly easy-going town and take in the many shops and bazaars. The following morning a tour will be arranged for you to visit the Tibetan Refugee Camp and Devi Falls. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. You may wish to do some last minute shopping for our trek or pack your kitty bag for the following day’s departure.
Our trek begins under the awe-inspiring presence of the mighty Machhapuchhare Mountain (6993m) and then the trail continues to climb towards Annapurna South (7273m) and Annapurna Fang (7647m). We head towards our high camp at Kopra (3870m). From here we can see Mt. Nilgiri (7647m) to the North and to the East we see Annapurna One (8091m) with imposing views of the Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m) and the Dhaulagiri Range to the West. The views here are breathe-taking and the tranquility of this special place affords an inner peace and calmness not often found in today's busy lifestyle. We visit the Holy Lake of Bhaahre situated at 4825m where the local people come once a year to offer sacrifice to the mountain spirit.
On day 15 we return to Pokhara and head straight to the Hotel Stupa for a long awaited bath or shower. We spend 1 night in Pokhara before heading down by bus to begin our safari in the Royal Chitwan National Park. This is reward indeed as we spoil ourselves with 3 nights stay in the heart of the Chitwan Jungle where the spirit of the great explorer-adventurers live on. Here, from atop an elephant, we can search for the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger and the endangered Great one-horned rhino which roams the jungle together with leopards, sloth bears, bison and many, many more wildlife species. Hidden deep in the swamps are rare crocodiles and freshwater dolphins, which can be spotted when we journey down the River Rapti by traditional dugout canoe. Meanwhile back at the "Gol Ghar" Round House we can relate our day's adventures in front of the campfire surrounded by jungle sounds and good company.
After our fabulous stay in Chitwan we drive to Nargarkot via Kathmandu. Nargakot is a popular Hill Station situated 32 klms east of Kathmandu at an elevation of 2300mtrs. From here you can see the breathtaking 360deg aerial view of the major Himalayan peaks of Nepal including the famous Mt Everest. Our hotel is located on the top of Nargarkot and is beautifully situated between the sunrise and sunset. The following morning we will take a 3 hour walk to the Chanynarayan Temple where we will spend a couple of hours exploring one of Nepal’s oldest temples. After lunch we will take a short ½ drive to the medieval city of BHAKTAPUR: Bhaktapur meaning the City of Devotees, this place is the home of medieval art and architecture. Lying 14km/9 miles east of Kathmandu City, this place was founded in the 9th century and is shaped like a conch shell. In Bhaktapur you will visit the Durbar Square with its array of temples overlooked by the Palace of 55 Windows built by King Bhupatindra Malla, The Nyatapola Temple. This temple also built by King Bhupatindra Malla, is the best example of the Pagoda style and stands on five terraces on each of which stands a pair of figures, two famous strong men, two elephants, two lions, two griffins and two goddesses.
The following morning we will drive to Kathmandu and on the way visit the city of PATAN commonly names the city of art, then it's onto PASAPATINATH one of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated amidst a lush green natural setting on the bank of the sacred Bagmati River, the temple built in pagoda style has gilted roof and richly carved silver doors. Visitors will be permitted to view the temple from the east bank of the Bagmati River, entrance in the temple being strictly forbidden to all non-Hindus. Pashupatinath is the centre of annual pilgrimage on the day of Shivaratri which falls in the month of February/March. . Behind the temples are the cremation brounds. We will also visit BOUDHNATH STUPA (temple), which is one of the biggest in the world of its kind. It stands with four pairs of eyes in the four cardinal directions keeping watch for righteous behavior and human prosperity. The Buddhist stupa was built by King Man Deva at the advice of Goddess Mani Jogini. It is built on an octagonal base inset with prayer wheels.
The remaining 1-1/2 days is KATHMANDU is free for you to do that last minute shopping, take a walk to the famous Durbar Square and sample many of the delightful restaurants on the way. On your last day you will be transferred approx. 12pm to the airport to pick up your return flight.
