Nepal: Annapurna Hiking, Rafting and Chitwan National Park

Nepal has one of the most fascinating dynastic histories the world over-just ask our hotel hosts at the Baber Mahal Villas. What's more, it offers some of the most thrilling adventures you might ever find. Lucky for you, this trip explores it all. We welcome you to Kathmandu, and to Nepal, and we invite you to discover the adventure within each day.

After a welcome meeting with your CEO and fellow travellers, tuck into a delicious three course Royal Thali meal served on-site at the hotel. We can't guarantee that life will always be served up on a silver platter, but your very first meal in Kathmandu certainly will be.

TRANSPORT: You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.

ACTIVITY: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.

ACTIVITY: The grandeur of Rana Maharajas' feast with its kaleidoscope of flavours and textures welcomes you and your palate to Nepal. Sit down for a three-course meal served on the silver plate known as Royal Thali. Appetizers like momos and a potato dish will circle the table, along with a glass of a traditional Nepali alcholic beverage known as raksi.

With so much active adventure to come, a day to acclimatize and adjust to your new surroundings is the perfect opportunity to dive into the history and culture of Nepal before heading further afield to explore it on your own two feet. Located in the Kathmandu valley, Patan is home to the Patan Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage listed site. Renowned for its exquisite Newari architecture and ancient palaces, Patan Durbar Square is adorned with intricately carved wooden temples, pagodas, and statues that reflect the artistic and architectural brilliance of the Malla dynasty.

After a walking tour throughout the square, make your way to Kirtipur where your friendly hosts welcome you. Women from the Kirtipur community are eager to interact with you-providing a Newari script demonstration and serving you a delicious Newari lunch. Join your hosts and try your hand at Ranjana Newari Script writing.

ACTIVITY: Walk around Patan Durbar Square on a guided visit to this historic and cultural marvel in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal. Observe the Newari architecture and ancient palaces and gain a sense of the vibrant local culture and impressive craftsmanship.

ACTIVITY: Enjoy an immersive and meditative full body and mind wellness experience at Avata Wellness in Kathmandu. Afterwards, a six-course vegetarian meal will be served at Nourish by Avata. All dishes are prepared using traditional Nepali herbs and spices, a perfect blend of delicacies that will introduce you to the many different flavours of Nepal.

ACTIVITY: Travel by private vehicle to Kirtipur for a traditional welcome and presentation of Ranjana Lipi—the ancient script of Nepal—followed by a walk around the settlement and a Newari lunch served by the local community. Dive deeper into the culture present in Kirtipur with a script writing workshop given by local experts.

Rhododendron and oak trees line the stone pathways of the trails from Phedi to Dhampus. As you begin to settle into your trekking pace, take a pause to breathe in the fresh cool air and the mountain views that start to appear as you crest the peaks of the trails. Three hours of trekking brings you to the mountain lodge where you spend the night. Gorgeous mountain views from the lodge await.

A short flight brings you from Kathmandu to Pokhara, and after a short drive you arrive to the start of the trek. Grab your hiking poles provided, and join your guide for a 3 hour trek from Phedi to Dhampus. Upon arrival to the mountain lodge, relax with a cold drink and devour a delicious local lunch. Your CEO will take you on a fascinating walk through Dhampus village in the afternoon. Don't forget to grab a cold drink and take in the views of the Phedi valley.

TRANSPORT: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.

ACTIVITY: Check into your stay at Dhampus Lodge and take in the panoramic views of the Annapurna range in the distance. Sit down for lunch in the lodge restaurant and then walk around Dhampus Village with your CEO and locals before returning for a delicious sit-down dinner of Nepali cuisine at the lodge.

TRANSPORT: Roads? Where this rough-and-ready vehicle's going, we don't need roads.

ACTIVITY: Stretch your legs and get the blood flowing on a trek from Phedi (1130m) to Dhampus (1700m). Transition from farmland to denser forests and end with mountain views stretching up to the sky. The trek is a steady ascent with some stone staircases along the way.

Terrain: moderate, steady ascent, passing through dense forests of rhododendron, oak, and pine trees.
Length: 8km (5 miles)
Duration: 2-3 hours
Elevation: +570m

As the sun rises, wake and prepare for another stunning day of trekking. Your destination is the village of Tomijong and the Tomijong Mountain Lodge. Tomijong village is known for their unique history of bee-keeping and your trek from Dhampus begins after breakfast. Descend through stone steps and trails that wind through beautiful terraced fields and traditional villages. Keep your eyes peeled for birds, butterflies and occasionally a langur monkey or Himalayan monal.

The terrain during this 5 hour trek consists well maintained dirt trails and stone steps. Plenty of stops along the way allow for time to refuel with water and snacks and most importantly, to soak in the panoramic views of the Dhaulagiri mountain ranges before you. After a delicious lunch, explore Lumle village with your CEO.

ACTIVITY: Trek from Dhampus (1700m) to Lumle (1432m) descending down stone steps and walking along trails that wind through terraced fields and remote villages with stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Keep an eye out for different species of birds, butterflies, and other local wildlife.

Terrain: Well maintained dirt trails, stone steps, and occasional rocky sections. Mostly downhill and some gentle ascents.
Length: 6-7km (3-5 miles)
Duration: 4-5 hours
Elevation: -302m

Departing for Ghandruk after breakfast, follow the trail down to the riverbank. Waterfalls dot the trail today as you trek to Ghandruk, a traditional Gurung village. Continue along the river and eventually cross a suspension bridge over the Kimrong river. Break for lunch and tea in villages throughout the afternoon's trek.

Today's 8 hour trek takes you from Lumle to Ghandruk on the longest day of your Annapurna adventure. Stop for lunch along the way, and a refreshing tea break in the village of Kimche. For your incredible efforts today, you are rewarded with beautiful views of the peaks of Annapurna South and neighbouring Hiunchu. Dinner is crafted by your local lodge hosts this evening.

ACTIVITY: Hike today from Lumle (1423m) to Ghandruk (1981m) through lush forests featuring oak, rhododendron, and bamboo trees. There will be a gradual descent finishing with a crossing over a suspension bridge on the Kimrong River before the final ascent to the village of Ghandruk. You will also encounter waterfalls along the trail providing a calming atmosphere for some short breaks.

Terrain: Winding trail through charming rural landscape, forests, and along the banks of the Modi Khola River.
Length: 16km (10 miles)
Duration: 7-8 hours
Elevation gain: +594m

It's all downhill from here. We only mean that literally of course, as there is plenty of incredible adventure to come, but this morning's trek is an easy and light 2 hours mostly downhill to the village of Syauli Bazar where your trek concludes. There is nothing quite like accomplishing a trek like this one that we do together on this trip, and you will have seen and experienced more than you could have ever done by staying on the beaten path.

After returning to Pokhara this afternoon, revitalize your muscles with a complimentary one hour massage at your hotel.

ACTIVITY: Get to know Ghandruk Village this morning on a walk with your CEO. Visit Gurung Museum with traditional artifacts, photographs, and other exhibits depicting the culture of the Gurung people.

ACTIVITY: Trek from Ghandruk to Phedi with a lunch stop in Sayauli Bazaar. Today's hike is a gradual descent downhill finishing with some stone steps down to Phedi where the vehicles will be waiting to transfer the group to Pokhara.

Terrain: Moderate, some rock sections, gradual descent.
Duration: 2 hours

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACTIVITY: Be pampered with a one-hour massage at the hotel spa to relax after trekking.

ACTIVITY: Breathe in the fresh air and take in the views of the Himalayas and Phewa Lake while getting your bearings around this scenic city.

Sunrise at Sarangkot is famous for its breathtaking sunrises over the peaks of the mountains. Rise early and join your CEO for sunrise at Sarangkot. OMG indeed. Waking at dawn for a life-affirming sunrise may have you feeling ready to take on the world. Or, you may be ready to take time to reflect on your accomplishments and give your body a chance to rest. We have options to suit either choice on your OMG Day in Pokhara. If you're ready for more adventure, join a cycle tour through Pame, along the river that feeds the Phewa lake. If you are looking for a slower pace today, choose to board a paddle boat ride across the lake and join a restorative yoga class with the Himalayas as your backdrop.

Your group comes back together this afternoon as you travel together to a Tibetan refugee village to engage in a fascinating momo making class with your local hosts. Momos were brought from Tibet to Nepal by the refugees who came during the Chinese invasion. The village you visit this afternoon are preserving their cultural heritage by continuing to tell their story and cook their cuisine. Engage with your hosts by getting involved in kneading the dough, filling the dumpling with their savoury filling, and sharing a delicious meal with your new friends.

ACTIVITY: Rise early and experience a spectacular sunrise with a panoramic view of the surrounding Himalayas. The highest altitude on this trek is at 1600 meters.

ACTIVITY: Option 1: Cycle through the village of Pame featuring stunning mountain views. Peddle along the river that feeds into the nearby Phewa Lake. The distance covered is 26km (16 miles) with an elevation gain of 300m, and a total time of 2-3 hours.

Option 2: Enjoy one of the most popular activities for visitors to Pokhara. Set off from the shore and paddle a wooden boat around Phewa Lake. Make a stop at Tal Barahi Temple along the way and enjoy a Yoga class with a spectacular view.

ACTIVITY: Drive to a village of Tibetan refugees who settled in Nepal. While here take part in a momo making session and lunch served by the local families.

River rafting is not just for adventure seekers. Being on the river provides a new perspective on the lush jungle surrounding the river. Spot monkeys from below and watch birds move from branch to branch. Your first day of the river adventure is on mostly Class II rapids, which means there is plenty of time to relax and enjoy the float. Without the appearance of roads, villages or cars-your journey into this secluded part of Nepal offers a chance to disconnect and recharge your battery.

Kingfishers and egrets mingle about as you arrive to your remote tented river camp and settle in with the jungle soundtrack in the background. Rustic tented wooden cabins are dotted along the riverbank with a communal fireplace area to gather and sip a warm beverage after your days adventure. Get dry and fill up on a delicious meal, and settle in for an evening around the fire. Tonight you are fully disconnected from the world.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACTIVITY: Start the activity with a safety drill and demonstration and then raft on the river for 2 hours practicing your newly acquired skills. Stop for a picnic lunch before 3 hours of grade II rafting on the Seti River.

After your rafting practice yesterday, its time to test out your paddling skills. Class III rapids bring you swiftly through the final chapter of your rafting adventure, a thrilling way to conclude this remote wilderness experience. The adventure continues after you dry off-traveling a short distance to Chitwan National Park. Begin your exploration with a safari drive in the park-looking out for elephant, leopard and tigers.

Chitwan National Park, Nepal's first national park, covers an area of over 900 square kilometres. Spend a full afternoon exploring by vehicle with your local guide. Your lodge this evening welcomes you with a captivating cultural performance after dinner.

ACTIVITY: After breakfast the group will continue rafting on the Seti River for 2 hours. The class of rapids are grade III. Mid-morning the group will merge into the Trishuli River at Gai Ghat where the raft trip will end.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACTIVITY: Explore the diverse ecosystems of Royal Chitwan National Park from the comfort of a 4x4 vehicle. Keep your eyes peeled for the many animals that live there, including birds, monkeys, crocodiles, and rhinos. If you're lucky, you might get to see an elusive tiger.

ACTIVITY: Spend the evening listening to traditional song and watching cultural dance performances by Tharu community members. You will see dances like the Bhajayati and Thekara stick dance, the peacock dance, and the fire dance. Join with the dancers if you wish and learn the moves while adding your own flair. Dinner will be served buffet-style in the community dining hall following the performance.

Wooden canoes, seating only six people, carry you slowly down river, expertly paddled by your local guide. In relative silence, watch for kingfishers diving into the river. Keep your eyes peeled for crocodile on shore sunning themselves. Your boat ride brings you down the Rapti river until it meets with the Narayani. This morning river safari is an incredibly unique experience in Chitwan, and without the noise of the vehicle motor, witness as wildlife comes remarkably close.

Your river safari ends at midday as you approach the riverbank, greeted by welcoming new friends. Your hosts for lunch are from the Barauli Community homestay. This social enterprise provides meals, accommodation and much more to travellers visiting this remote part of Nepal. Dine on a delicious Tharu specialties and learn more about the community.

ACTIVITY: Row through the gentle run flowing Rapti River towards the Narayani River in a canoe on this unique way of visiting Chitwan. There will be ample opportunity at the leisurely pace to view the flora, fauna and wildlife around you.

ACTIVITY: AFTERNOON Enjoy the hospitality of the Tharu, an indigenous community from the Teral belt of Nepal who live in eco-friendly homes. Experience their unique culture through dances, songs, and a delicious traditional meal.

ACTIVITY: Cycle around the nearby paddy fields and Tharu Villages in this region. Helmets are provided and the activity lasts for around 45 minutes along a flat surface trail.

Kathmandu is calling. One final afternoon to explore beautiful Nepal. After so many thrilling adventures, your final afternoon and evening is spent in Bhaktapur, a small city just 5 miles from downtown Kathmandu. Bhaktapur is known for its cuisine and artisan craftsmanship. Choose to join your CEO on an informative walking tour of the town, and visit a traditional pottery workshop.

A relaxed morning and short flight from Chitwan back to Kathmandu brings you to your hotel by lunchtime. In the afternoon, your CEO will lead a walking tour of Bhaktapur town. In Bhaktapur, local people are predominantly farmers or engaged in the traditional crafts of pottery, metalwork, art and woodwork which have supported the city since its establishment in the 12th century. Visit an expert potter and try your hand using ancient techniques. This evening, join your CEO and fellow travellers for one final farewell feast.

FREE TIME: AFTERNOON You have the option this afternoon to join your CEO for a walk through Bhaktapur Town where you can interact with Bhaktapur potters and watch small sessions. The town is an important and fascinating World Heritage Site, made up of three large squares filled with shrines and temples. It is the essential Newari city with some of the finest architecture in Nepal, and during its heyday (between the 14th-16th centuries) Bhaktapur was the most powerful of the Kathmandu Valley kingdoms and its capital for 300 years.

TRANSPORT: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Your adventure has come to an end, you can depart at any time.

ACTIVITY: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with any onward travel arrangements you require.