Nepal’s Annapurna Trails Lodge To Lodge Walk & Chitwan National Park 13D12N, Guided

Arrive in Kathmandu, the most populous city in Nepal and the capital of the country, which is also known officially as Kathmandu metropolitan city. Be greeted with a complimentary welcome transfer to your 5 star hotel.

You’ll stay at the charming Hotel Yak & Yeti, situated in Durbar Marg, the vibrant city centre of Kathmandu Valley. A prime location, explore the former Royal Palace that is only a few minutes' walking distance. Take a refreshing dip in the picturesque pool, laze by the sun terraces or pamper yourself with a massage at the spa (at own expense). This evening, gather together with your leader for your trip briefing ahead.

After a hearty breakfast this morning, there is the possibility for adventure enthusiasts who are eager to jump into the air on an exhilarating sightseeing flight around Everest; reservations for this activity can be arranged locally through your tour guide on Day 1. During the later part of the morning, we will leave the hotel and begin our sightseeing tour of Kathmandu.

Our first stop for today will be the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Boudhanath where you will get to see the Buddhist stupa with its enormous mandala. The Boudhanath Stupa is one of the largest spheres in Nepal in the globe. Standing at a lofty 36 metres, the location is nothing short of enchantment, with mysterious symbols and intriguing energies lurking around every corner.

The noon sets in with a refueling lunch amidst fascinating views of the stupa. Continue on to the Kathmandu Durbar Square, one of the three royal palace squares located in the Kathmandu Valley and a site that has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Despite the shattering damage caused by the earthquake in 2015 to the Kathmandu Durbar Square, the various palaces, temples, and courtyards created in the Newari style still hold a high level of intrigue amidst the disaster.

Spend time exploring the lively markets of Asan Tol. Awaken your senses from smell to sights from food and spices to clothing and gadgets, all of which can be found in the Asan Bazaar. To end a perfect day, simmer into the bustling nightlife that is the Thamel district. Here, you’ll experience Kathmandu's nightlife and is filled with an array of restaurants, cafés and live music.

Today, you will receive a full trip briefing for your walking adventure ahead.

This morning we have an early departure from Kathmandu and will be driving to Pokhara, a picturesque lakeside resort located at the foot of the Annapurna Range. The ride can be difficult at times due to ongoing road expansion construction along the route as well as some bumpy conditions in certain locations; nevertheless, once you have climbed the hill out of Kathmandu city, the erupting vistas that unfold from here on promises to be a worthwhile diversion from the bumpy road. The trip can take anywhere from 8 to 10 hours, all depending on the amount of time spent whisking through the traffic (if any), lunch breaks and using rest stations along the way.

Upon arrival in Pokhara, your guide will take you out for an orientation stroll along the shore of Phewa Lake. Have a look at the mountain Machhapuchhre and the other peaks of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges that are reflected in the lake's surface.

You’ll stay at the exquisite Atithi Resort & Spa, Pokhara. This resort is located in the centre of Pokhara, the "city of lakes," and its expansive grounds are characterised by the adoring snow-capped mountains, the verdant woodlands that cover the surrounding hills, the placid lake water, the serene atmosphere and the breathtaking panorama presented by the Annapurna and Himalayan Ranges, right in front of you.

Take pleasure in the contemporary comforts that this luxurious lodging facility has to offer at your own leisure. The exquisite wild rosewood furniture, thoughtfully constructed swimming pool, and restorative spa, as well as separate sauna and Jacuzzi rooms, have helped to carve out a space for luxurious indulgence inside it.

Level 2, Approx. 8 km (5 miles), 2-3 hours walking, Elevation gain: 123 m (403 ft)

Enjoy a delicious breakfast before a short drive to the starting point of our trek. From there, we will walk along a ridgeline in the Annapurna Mountains' lower foothills, which will afford us views of the Pokhara Valley. After that, you'll make your way down to the Modi River Valley, which is where you'll find the Sanctuary Lodge located at 1025 m/3363 ft, operated by Mountain Lodges of Nepal. Fishtail Mountain, which is considered sacred, may be seen in its entirety from the lodge's balconies (or Machhapuchhare, as it is locally known).

Lunch will be served in the lodge, and in the afternoon, we will either have the opportunity to unwind in the beautiful garden or your guide will take you on a bird viewing trip to the nearby village of Birethanti.

Come evening, gather together for dinner to a treat of classic Nepalese delights made with ingredients sourced from the organic garden.

Level 4, Approx. 11 km (7 miles), 5-6 hours walking, Elevation gain: 1184 m (3385 ft)

Savour a delightful breakfast before leaving the lodge to begin your hike through the dispersed tiny farms. You will soon be climbing the valley towards the mountains as you follow the Modi Khola in the direction of the mountains. In the distance, you are thrown to uninterrupted views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre.

We have a rather lengthy hike up stone steps today, and it takes us through the rice terraces and rhododendron forests; however, while the hike promises to be a timelapse of riveting vistas, there's room for frequent stops and lunch breaks as we tread the trail.

The Himalaya Lodge in Ghandruk is where we will spend the night located at 2012m/6,601ft. You will be welcomed with tea and snacks upon arrival, all while taking in the breathtaking panoramas of Annapurna South, Huinchuli, and timeless peaks of Machhapuchhare.

Level 4, Approx. 6 km (4 miles), 4-6 hours walking, Elevation gain: 557 m (1827 ft)

As much as Landruk, our destination for today lies on the other side of the valley, in order to reach there, we will need to travel down to the river and then climb up the other side. Once the hike leaves the settlement of Ghandruk, it begins a steep descent onto the banks of the Modi River.

Next, we traverse the suspension bridge, our hike to Landruk village continues up a stone staircase. While on our way, marvel at the breathtaking views of the Annapurna Mountain range and pass directly beneath the cliffs where honey gatherers scale ropes to collect wild bee honey.

Arrive at your lodge, La Bee Lodge, located at 1565 m/5135 ft, where a hearty lunch awaits. Spend the rest of the day relaxing and taking in the breathtaking views of Annapurna South and Huinchuli or venture on a tour of the hamlet with your guide to explore the local attractions. All of which are totally dependent on your choice.

Level 3, Approx. 12 km (7 miles), 3-5 hours walking, Elevation gain: 413 (1355 ft)

Your hike today takes on an easier walk with no steep uphill or downhill climb. The trail goes through villages and farmlands while providing imposing views of the Annapurna Mountains in the distance.

You’ll arrive at your lodge by lunchtime at Gurung or Mala Lodge located at 1400 m/4593 ft. Spend the afternoon relaxing in the magnificent garden with views of Annapurna South or taking in the mountain vistas from the comfort of your own room, which has a view of the surrounding mountains.

For those in seek of more adventure can embark on a guided village walk to Thanchok, which is an old and traditional Gurung village that is home to many blacksmith families. (Occasionally, if Gurung Lodge is full, we continue walking for another 20 minutes to Tomijun hamlet to stay at the equally excellent Mala Lodge.)

Level 3, Approx. 10 km (6 miles), 4 hours walking, Elevation gain: 577 (1893 ft)

After witnessing a beautiful sunrise on Annapurna South, our journey onward takes a fun twist with an averagely demanding trek for a couple of hours over a broad forest track that climbs steadily. We have now reached the main route at Potana after completing a brief segment of the forest trail. For another half hour, we will arrive at Australia Camp. The Australian Camp is a series of lodges that are located on the summit of a hill. From here, enjoy breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding valleys as well as the Annapurna Alps, Machhapuchhre Himal, Lamjung Himal, and Manaslu Hima.

We are able to take a short rest here for some tea before descending the ridge to Dhampus. You’ll stay at Basanta Lodge located at 1525 m/5003 ft), where you’ll be treated to a delicious lunch before the opportunity to take a stroll through Dhampus village.

For those in pursue of a more relaxed pace, can unwind at the lodge's garden for spectacular views of the sunset. The entire range is in view, from Annapurna South to Annapurnas 4 and 2, as well as Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, and the other peaks in the Annapurna range.

Level 1, Approx. 3 km (2 miles), 1-2 hours walking, Elevation gain: 500 m (1640 ft)

Following breakfast, we make our way up the slope and then descend on a stone stairway to the valley floor, passing by a forested hillside and agricultural terraces along the way. The hike can take anything from one hour and a half to two hours. After that, we get in a van and head to our accommodation in Pokhara (one hour). Pokhara is yours to discover at your leisure in the afternoon.

Pokhara provides a wealth of exciting opportunities to discover its breathtaking surroundings. Go on a boat trip and paddle amid scenic splendour while surrounded on all sides by mountains. Or, if you’d prefer, you can instead hire bikes and ride along the lakeside if that sounds more like your speed.

You may also choose to do nothing more than lounge by the hotel pool, unwind by the lush garden, take a stroll down the lakefront while bathing in the soothing lakefront breeze, or window shop at the many stores there. Your leader will enlighten you on the several choices you have at your disposal.

Depart Pokhara for a 4-5 hours drive to your lush Barahi Jungle Lodge in Chitwan. On a clear day, the Annapurna Mountain range may be seen in its entirety to the left as we travel away from Pokhara. We'll be returning to Mugling, where we'll be able to head south toward Nepal's lowlands and our jungle resort in Chitwan. Arrive at noon where you’ll meet with your naturalist guide and go over the day's plans.

Our plan includes a boat ride down the river toward dusk. Do keep your eyes peeled for crocodiles and colourful, exotic birds. We wait until nightfall and then head back to the lodge in a car.

You will be staying at the five-star Barahi Jungle Resort, Chitwan, which is located on the bank of the Rapti river, which runs parallel to Chitwan National Park and is the site of the park's entrance. The Barahi Jungle Lodge is a luxurious retreat in the middle of the jungle that provides an exciting alternative to typical sightseeing.

Take pleasure in the luxurious services and modern decor of your lodging. Unwind at the spa or a hot tub inside its plush confines, as well as a pool with glistening waters and expansive views of the surrounding landscape.

Tonight, enjoy a cultural dance performance prior to dinner featuring an impressive array of culinary choices ranging from Nepalese to Asian cuisines.

The order in which activities are subject to changes, but in general, the schedule for today will consist of a jeep safari, a stroll through the village to enjoy the view of exotic birds, and a walk through the village.

We will engage in the first part of the expedition in the morning and the second; each featuring an activity from the ones available.

Your tours today will be in company of highly experienced and professional naturalists who are armed to the teeth with a wealth of information regarding the wildlife you'll be encountering. There will be a tour of a traditional Tharu home. This tour takes you on a historic encounter with the artistic traditional houses of Tharu people, made with wood and thatch.

Your thrilling expedition continues with a safari jeep ride into the Chitwan National Park where you'll get a once-in a lifetime opportunity to encounter thriving exotic wildlife in their abundance. Amongst your encounter will be learning as well as getting to see a variety of species of deer, wild boar, the rare Bengal Tiger, and the one-horned rhinoceros, in addition to the abundant bird life on display.

There will be a unique cultural program presented at the resort each evening before supper. Depending on the season, dinner can be enjoyed either inside or outside by the swimming pool.

This morning, you are welcome to take advantage of your accommodation and its various amenities. If, on the other hand, you're in the mood for something a little lighter yet relaxing, a bird-watching walk is being organised and is open to anyone who wants to join. Following that, we will make a quick trip to the airport in Bharatpur for our flight back to Kathmandu.

Savour a delightful breakfast and enjoy a lovely stroll by the lake, a perfect time to reflect on your incredible journey. For those wishing for one last adventure can venture on a bird watching walk early morning. Transfer to Bharatpur Airport for your flight to Kathmandu where your journey ends for your onward travels.

NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.