Tribhuvan International Airport – Hotel Transfer

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be warmly welcomed by a representative of Nepal Voyage Treks. Our team will meet you outside the international arrival terminal, assist you with your luggage and transfer you directly to your hotel by a comfortable private vehicle. Depending on the number of guests, transportation can be arranged by private car, jeep, van, Hiace or tourist bus.

Kathmandu lies at approximately 1,350–1,400 metres above sea level and is the political, historical and cultural centre of Nepal. The Kathmandu Valley has been an important meeting point for Himalayan trade, religion and artistic traditions for centuries. Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur were once separate kingdoms, particularly under the Malla rulers, and their artistic competition helped create the extraordinary palaces, courtyards, temples and sculptures visible today.

After checking into the hotel, you can rest from your international flight. Depending on arrival time, there may also be an opportunity for a short orientation walk around the hotel area.

Altitude: approximately 1,400 m
Transport: Private car, jeep, van, Hiace or bus
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu

Today is devoted to the cultural and religious treasures of Kathmandu Valley. The proposed sightseeing program includes Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Patan Durbar Square and Bhaktapur Durbar Square.

Because all six are substantial heritage sites, visiting every one in a single day makes a long and fast-paced sightseeing program, normally around 9–11 hours depending on traffic, queues and time spent at each monument. For travellers who want a slower historical experience, the same six sites are better divided over two days.

Kathmandu Durbar Square – Hanuman Dhoka

Kathmandu Durbar Square was historically the royal and ceremonial heart of old Kathmandu. The complex developed over many centuries and includes former royal palaces, courtyards, pagoda temples, shrines and intricately carved wooden buildings. The architectural character visible today was heavily shaped by the Malla period, when the Kathmandu Valley became one of the great artistic centres of the Himalayan region.

The square contains Hanuman Dhoka Palace, Kumari Ghar, Taleju Temple, Kal Bhairav, Kasthamandap and numerous smaller shrines. Kumari Ghar is especially famous as the residence associated with Kathmandu's tradition of the Living Goddess. The monuments demonstrate the skill of Newar craftspeople in woodcarving, brick architecture, stone sculpture and metalwork.

UNESCO identifies Kathmandu Durbar Square as one of the seven monument zones that together form the Kathmandu Valley World Heritage property.

Swayambhunath Stupa – The Ancient Hilltop Stupa

From the old city, travel to Swayambhunath, situated on a prominent hill overlooking Kathmandu. The monument is one of the oldest Buddhist sacred sites in the valley and is widely known to international visitors as the Monkey Temple because of the monkeys living around the hill.

The main stupa consists of a white dome supporting a golden structure painted with the symbolic eyes of the Buddha. Prayer wheels, monasteries, shrines and religious sculptures surround the monument. From the hilltop, visitors also enjoy a broad view over Kathmandu Valley.

Swayambhunath has particular cultural importance because it reflects the close historical interaction of Buddhist and Hindu traditions in Kathmandu Valley. UNESCO identifies Swayambhu as the oldest Buddhist monument zone within the valley's World Heritage property.

Pashupatinath Temple – Sacred Hindu Heritage

The tour continues to Pashupatinath, one of Nepal's most important Hindu pilgrimage complexes. Situated beside the sacred Bagmati River, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Pashupati.

The wider religious complex contains temples, shrines, ashrams, courtyards and cremation ghats. Hindu cremation ceremonies are regularly performed on the banks of the Bagmati River, making Pashupatinath a powerful example of a living religious site rather than simply an archaeological monument.

The main sanctuary has restricted entry according to religious rules, but international visitors can view important parts of the complex and ceremonies from the opposite side of the river. Pashupatinath is one of Kathmandu Valley's UNESCO monument zones.

Boudhanath Stupa – Tibetan Buddhist Centre

Boudhanath Stupa is one of Nepal's most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites and is particularly associated with Tibetan Buddhist communities. Its enormous white dome and golden tower are among Kathmandu's most recognizable landmarks.

Pilgrims walk clockwise around the stupa, spin prayer wheels and offer prayers and butter lamps. Surrounding the monument are monasteries, religious schools, traditional shops and restaurants. The site historically stood near important routes connecting Kathmandu with the Himalayan and Tibetan regions.

UNESCO describes Boudhanath as the largest stupa within Nepal and includes it within the Kathmandu Valley World Heritage property.

Patan Durbar Square – Lalitpur, City of Fine Arts

Patan, traditionally known as Lalitpur, developed as one of the three major royal cities of Kathmandu Valley. The city became especially renowned for bronze casting, stone sculpture, wood carving and religious craftsmanship.

Patan Durbar Square contains the former royal palace, magnificent courtyards and numerous temples. Krishna Mandir, constructed of stone, is one of the most recognizable monuments in the square. Other highlights include palace courtyards and traditional water spouts.

The historical importance of Patan lies not only in its buildings but also in the continuation of Newar artistic traditions. Metalworkers and craftspeople still produce Buddhist and Hindu religious objects using methods that have been passed down through generations.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square – Ancient City of Devotees

Bhaktapur, historically called Bhadgaon, was another independent royal city before Nepal's unification. It retains a particularly strong traditional atmosphere, with brick streets, courtyards, temples, traditional houses and pottery areas.

Important monuments include the 55-Window Palace, Golden Gate, Nyatapola Temple, Bhairavnath Temple and the statue of King Bhupatindra Malla. Nyatapola is one of the most recognizable multi-tiered pagoda temples in Nepal.

The three ancient cities of Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur were separate kingdoms before Nepal was unified under Prithvi Narayan Shah in the eighteenth century.

Accommodation: Kathmandu
Sightseeing: approximately 9–11 hours for all six sites
Transport: Private vehicle

After breakfast, leave Kathmandu for beautiful Pokhara, one of Nepal's most famous tourism and adventure destinations. The road journey follows river valleys and passes terraced farmland, villages, forested hills and changing landscapes.

Pokhara is particularly famous because of the dramatic contrast between its relatively low valley and the enormous Himalayan mountains to the north. On clear days, the Annapurna massif, Machhapuchhre and other Himalayan peaks appear above the valley.

Pokhara also serves as one of the principal gateways to the Annapurna trekking region.

Distance: approximately 200 km, depending on road used
Driving: approximately 7–9 hours under normal touring conditions, but road works and traffic can increase journey time
Pokhara altitude: approximately 820 m
Accommodation: Pokhara

Overall Historical and Natural View of Pokhara

Pokhara developed historically as an important settlement and trading point between the Himalayan areas and Nepal's lower hills and plains. Today it is internationally known for Phewa Lake, caves, waterfalls, Buddhist monuments and Himalayan scenery.

Its unusual geology is one of its defining features. Limestone formations and underground water channels have created caves, gorges and disappearing rivers throughout the valley. Nepal Tourism Board highlights features such as the Seti Gorge, Devi's Fall and several limestone caves as major natural attractions.

Devi's Fall – Patale Chhango

Begin your sightseeing at Devi's Fall, locally known as Patale Chhango. The waterfall plunges through a narrow channel and disappears into an underground system.

The fall is particularly dramatic during periods of high water. The combination of surface water and underground limestone formations demonstrates the unusual geological character of the Pokhara Valley. Nepal Tourism Board identifies Devi's Fall as one of Pokhara's major natural attractions.

Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave

Continue to Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, located close to Devi's Fall. The cave has both geological and Hindu religious significance. A sacred shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva is located inside, while deeper sections reveal the natural underground environment created by water erosion.

Visitors should wear secure footwear because the cave stairs can be damp and slippery.

World Peace Pagoda

Continue to the World Peace Pagoda, a beautiful white Buddhist monument located on a forested hill above the southern side of Phewa Lake.

The pagoda has four Buddha images facing the four cardinal directions. Its elevated position provides outstanding views across Phewa Lake, Pokhara city and, on clear days, the Annapurna Himalaya.

Phewa Lake Boating

Later, enjoy peaceful boating on Phewa Lake, the natural centre of Pokhara tourism. Traditional rowing boats cross the lake, offering views of forested hills and the Himalayan skyline.

During clear and calm conditions, Machhapuchhre and sections of the Annapurna range may be reflected in the lake. A boating trip can also include Tal Barahi Temple, a small Hindu temple situated on an island.

Accommodation: Pokhara
Sightseeing: approximately 6–8 hours

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek – Overall Overview

The Ghorepani–Poon Hill–Ghandruk trek is one of the classic short trekking experiences of the Annapurna region. It combines mountain scenery with rhododendron and oak forests, stone staircases, traditional villages, terraced agriculture and Gurung and Magar culture.

The route reaches approximately 3,210 m at Poon Hill, which is high enough to provide outstanding Himalayan panoramas but considerably lower than treks such as Annapurna Base Camp or Everest Base Camp.

The trek's greatest natural attraction is its forest environment. Around Ghorepani and Tadapani, extensive rhododendron forests can be spectacular during the spring flowering season. Lower valleys contain terraced farms and subtropical vegetation, while higher sections transition toward cooler broad-leaved forests.

Possible wildlife includes monkeys, Himalayan birds, pheasants and small forest mammals, though wild-animal sightings are never guaranteed.

Mountain views vary according to weather but can include Dhaulagiri I, Tukuche Peak, Nilgiri, Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail).

After breakfast, travel from Pokhara toward the Annapurna foothills by private vehicle. Modern road development means the exact practical trekking start can vary according to weather and current road conditions, but for your itinerary Tikhedhunga is used as the first overnight destination.

The lower journey passes through villages and agricultural landscapes before entering the mountain trail system. Around Birethanti and the lower valley, trekkers encounter terraced fields, streams, traditional settlements and subtropical vegetation.

Tikhedhunga lies at approximately 1,480–1,550 m.

Approximate trek: 5–10 km depending on drive endpoint
Walking: approximately 2–4 hours
Final altitude: ~1,500 m
Ascent: approximately +200–450 m depending on starting point
Descent: small undulating sections
Trail: village roads, stone paths and riverside trails
Vegetation: subtropical forest, bamboo, agricultural terraces and mixed broadleaf vegetation
Overnight: Tikhedhunga

After breakfast, travel from Pokhara toward the Annapurna foothills by private vehicle. Modern road development means the exact practical trekking start can vary according to weather and current road conditions, but for your itinerary Tikhedhunga is used as the first overnight destination.

The lower journey passes through villages and agricultural landscapes before entering the mountain trail system. Around Birethanti and the lower valley, trekkers encounter terraced fields, streams, traditional settlements and subtropical vegetation.

Tikhedhunga lies at approximately 1,480–1,550 m.

Approximate trek: 5–10 km depending on drive endpoint
Walking: approximately 2–4 hours
Final altitude: ~1,500 m
Ascent: approximately +200–450 m depending on starting point
Descent: small undulating sections
Trail: village roads, stone paths and riverside trails
Vegetation: subtropical forest, bamboo, agricultural terraces and mixed broadleaf vegetation
Overnight: Tikhedhunga

Today begins with one of the most famous climbs of the Poon Hill trek. After leaving Tikhedhunga, the route crosses the stream and climbs steeply toward Ulleri.

Much of the ascent is on traditional stone staircases. This section is physically demanding even though the overall trekking distance is relatively short.

Ulleri is a traditional Magar settlement situated on the steep hillside. After Ulleri, continue higher toward Banthanti, where the environment becomes increasingly forested.

Tikhedhunga: ~1,500 m
Ulleri: ~2,000 m
Banthanti: ~2,200–2,300 m
Distance: approximately 6–8 km
Walking: approximately 4–5 hours
Ascent: approximately +700–800 m
Descent: minimal

The stone stairways can become slippery during rain, so trekking poles and good footwear are useful.

Mountains visible: occasional views toward Annapurna South and Hiunchuli from open sections, weather permitting.

Overnight: Banthanti

After breakfast, enter increasingly beautiful mountain forest. The route climbs through rhododendron, oak and mixed broadleaf woodland, passing small streams and settlements before reaching Ghorepani.

This is one of the most scenic forest days of the trek. In spring, flowering rhododendrons can cover entire hillsides with red, pink and white blossoms.

Ghorepani is situated at approximately 2,850–2,900 m and has long served as an important crossing point through the middle hills. Its name is often associated with historic travel and trading routes where horses and pack animals were watered.

Distance: approximately 8–10 km
Walking: approximately 4–6 hours
Starting elevation: ~2,250 m
Ghorepani: ~2,860 m
Ascent: approximately +600–700 m
Descent: around 50–150 m of minor undulations

Mountain views: Dhaulagiri range, Nilgiri, Annapurna South and surrounding peaks, depending on cloud and visibility.

Overnight: Ghorepani

Wake before sunrise for the famous climb to Poon Hill, approximately 3,210 m.

The climb normally takes around 45–75 minutes. At the viewpoint, weather permitting, the sunrise illuminates some of Nepal's most impressive mountains.

The panorama can include Dhaulagiri I (8,167 m), Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Hiunchuli (6,441 m), Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), Nilgiri and other peaks.

After sunrise, return to Ghorepani for breakfast. Then continue toward Tadapani.

The trail climbs through beautiful forest and crosses ridges before descending into valleys and climbing again. This means the day includes considerably more cumulative ascent and descent than the difference between the starting and ending elevations suggests.

Poon Hill: ~3,210 m
Ghorepani: ~2,860 m
Tadapani: ~2,630 m
Total distance: approximately 11–13 km
Walking: approximately 6–7 hours including Poon Hill
Cumulative ascent: approximately +600–800 m
Cumulative descent: approximately -800–1,000 m

The forest between Ghorepani and Tadapani is one of the most attractive areas for rhododendron and Himalayan birdlife.

Overnight: Tadapani

Today is shorter and primarily downhill.

From Tadapani, descend through forest toward Ghandruk, one of the most famous Gurung villages in Nepal.

The trail includes stone steps, forest paths and traditional village tracks. As you descend, the environment becomes warmer and agricultural terraces become more common.

Ghandruk is known for its traditional stone houses, narrow walking lanes, Gurung culture and excellent location beneath the Annapurna range. Gurung communities have maintained distinctive architecture, food, festivals and social traditions throughout the Annapurna foothills.

Tadapani: ~2,630 m
Ghandruk: ~1,940 m
Distance: approximately 6–7 km
Walking: 3–4 hours
Ascent: approximately +50–150 m
Descent: approximately -700 m

Mountains visible: Annapurna South, Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhre are especially impressive from Ghandruk when skies are clear.

Overnight: Ghandruk

Leaving Ghandruk, descend toward the Modi Khola valley before climbing again toward Landruk. This creates a day with both substantial descent and ascent.

Landruk is another traditional Gurung settlement located on the opposite side of the valley from Ghandruk. If the group has sufficient time and energy, the trek may continue farther to Tolka.

Ghandruk: ~1,940 m
Landruk: ~1,560 m
Tolka: ~1,700–1,800 m
Distance: approximately 8–12 km depending on overnight location
Walking: approximately 4–6 hours
Cumulative descent: roughly -600 to -800 m
Cumulative ascent: approximately +250–500 m

The route includes stone trails, terraces, forest sections and river-valley scenery.

Mountains: Annapurna South and Hiunchuli remain visible from some open sections.

Overnight: Landruk or Tolka

Today the trail continues through the lower Annapurna foothills toward Pothana.

From Tolka, the route climbs gradually through settlements and forest toward Deurali before descending toward Pothana. If starting from Landruk, the day is longer because of the additional climb.

Pothana lies at approximately 1,900–1,950 m and provides attractive views toward Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna region when weather is clear.

Distance: approximately 8–12 km
Walking: approximately 4–6 hours
Ascent: around +400–650 m
Descent: approximately -200–400 m
Trail: forest tracks, stone staircases, village paths and ridge walking

Flora: rhododendron, oak, pine, ferns and agricultural vegetation.

Overnight: Pothana

Enjoy your final morning in the Annapurna foothills.

From Pothana, descend through the Dhampus area toward the roadhead. Traditional houses, agricultural terraces and wide valley views make this a pleasant conclusion to the trek. if you like you stay in dhumpush also very nice view and agriculture traditional nepali .....there is a lodge and agriculture villagae... or walk till dhumpush phedi all the way to dawon  the take vechicle traspotation from phedi...

From the roadhead, meet your private vehicle and return to Pokhara.

Walking distance: approximately 5–8 km depending on vehicle pickup
Walking: approximately 2–4 hours
Ascent: limited
Descent: approximately -500 to -800 m
Driving: approximately 1–2 hours depending on roadhead and traffic

After arrival in Pokhara, check into your hotel and enjoy a well-deserved rest.

Accommodation: Pokhara

After breakfast, drive south from Pokhara toward the Terai plains of Nepal.

The route is a dramatic geographical transition from the Himalayan foothills to the warmer lowlands. As altitude decreases, the vegetation, architecture and agricultural landscape change significantly.

Distance: approximately 200 km, route dependent
Driving: approximately 7–9 hours depending on traffic and road conditions
Lumbini altitude: approximately 150 m
Accommodation: Lumbini

Lumbini is internationally recognized as the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha, and was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1997. The archaeological and religious landscape preserves evidence of pilgrimage stretching back more than two thousand years.

Maya Devi Temple

The Maya Devi Temple marks the sacred birthplace area. Archaeological remains inside and around the temple document the long history of religious activity at Lumbini.

The site is traditionally associated with Queen Maya Devi giving birth to Siddhartha Gautama in the gardens of Lumbini.

Ashoka Pillar

One of Lumbini's most historically valuable monuments is the Ashoka Pillar.

Mauryan Emperor Ashoka visited Lumbini during the third century BCE and erected the pillar. Its inscription provides important historical testimony identifying the sacred location with Buddha's birth. Nepal Tourism Board dates Ashoka's pilgrimage and commemorative pillar to 249 BCE.

Sacred Garden and Monastic Zone

The wider Lumbini development area includes the Sacred Garden and an international monastic zone.

Monasteries and temples built by Buddhist communities from countries including Thailand, Myanmar, China, Japan, Korea, Sri Lanka and others represent a range of Buddhist architectural and religious traditions.

The peaceful environment makes Lumbini not only a historical destination but also a living international pilgrimage centre.

Accommodation: Lumbini

After breakfast, travel east toward Chitwan.

As the journey enters Nepal's Inner Terai, you pass tropical agricultural landscapes and broad river plains.

On arrival, check into the jungle lodge or hotel. Depending on arrival time, the afternoon may include a short village walk, sunset view or orientation program.

Driving: approximately 4–6 hours depending on road conditions
Accommodation: Chitwan

Chitwan National Park is one of Nepal's great wildlife destinations. It was inscribed as a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site and protects lowland tropical and subtropical forests, grasslands, wetlands and river environments.

Jeep Safari

A jeep safari provides an opportunity to explore forest, grassland and wetland habitats.

The park is particularly famous for the greater one-horned rhinoceros and also protects Bengal tigers, leopards, deer, wild boar, gaur, monkeys and many other mammals. Tigers are naturally difficult to see, so no responsible tour should guarantee a tiger sighting.

Canoe Ride and Crocodiles

Depending on water conditions and park operations, the program may include a canoe trip along the river.

The Chitwan ecosystem supports gharial and mugger crocodiles as well as numerous water birds.

Birdwatching and Nature

Nepal Tourism Board lists more than 500 bird species associated with the Chitwan ecosystem. Forest, grassland and wetland habitats make this an excellent destination for nature lovers and birdwatchers.

Tharu Culture

The Chitwan experience can also include a visit to a Tharu community and an evening cultural program.

The Tharu people have lived in Nepal's Terai region for generations and maintain distinctive architectural, agricultural, musical and dance traditions.

Activities: Jeep safari, canoe ride, birdwatching, nature activities and Tharu culture, subject to season and park conditions. Nepal Tourism Board identifies these among the major visitor experiences in Chitwan.

Accommodation: Chitwan

After breakfast, drive back toward Kathmandu.

The route leaves the lowlands and follows major river valleys before climbing into the Kathmandu Valley. farwell dinner by company nepal voyage treks, very delicius nepali 

Distance: approximately 150–170 km depending on road used
Driving: approximately 5–8 hours, with traffic or road works sometimes extending the journey
Accommodation: Kathmandu

After arrival, check into the hotel. The evening can be used for shopping, relaxation or a farewell dinner.

Today marks the conclusion of your Nepal holiday.

According to your international flight schedule, a representative of Nepal Voyage Treks will meet you at the hotel and arrange your private transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport.

The vehicle will be selected according to the number of travellers and luggage:

Private Car • Jeep • Van • Hiace • Tourist Bus

Our team will assist with luggage and arrange the departure transfer with enough time for international check-in.

Hotel → Tribhuvan International Airport → International Departure

Thank you for travelling with Nepal Voyage Treks. We hope you return home with unforgettable memories of Nepal's Himalayan landscapes, ancient heritage, warm hospitality, wildlife and mountain cultures.

Trip at a Glance

Best Time for This Nepal Tour

For the trekking section, spring and autumn are generally the most attractive periods. Spring offers rhododendron flowers and warmer conditions, while autumn commonly provides clearer mountain views after the monsoon.

Winter trekking is possible but mornings around Ghorepani and Poon Hill can be cold and occasional snow or ice may occur. During the monsoon, heavy rain can make stone stairs and forest trails slippery and cloud can obscure mountain views.

Chitwan has a much warmer climate than the trekking region. Nepal Tourism Board describes October through March as a particularly comfortable period, with very hot conditions possible from April through June and rainy conditions during July through September.

Trekking Route Conditions and Difficulty

This Annapurna foothill route is usually considered moderate, but that does not mean effortless.

The most challenging components are the stone-stair climb toward Ulleri and the numerous ups and downs between Ghorepani and Tadapani. The trek does not reach extreme altitude, with Poon Hill at about 3,210 m, but good walking fitness still improves the experience.

Paths include stone staircases, forest trails, village tracks, mud paths and occasional road sections. Rain, snow, landslides, construction and seasonal road changes can affect exact route conditions, so daily distances should always be treated as approximate.

Flora and Fauna of the Trekking Region

One of the main attractions of the trek is the transition through different ecological zones.

Lower elevations around Tikhedhunga contain warm-temperate and subtropical vegetation, agricultural terraces, bamboo and mixed woodland. As the trail rises toward Banthanti, Ghorepani and Tadapani, rhododendron and oak forests become dominant.

During spring, flowering rhododendrons are one of the iconic features of the route.

Forest wildlife can include monkeys, Himalayan birds, pheasants and smaller mammals. Birds are generally easier to observe than large mammals, and wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed.

Mountains Visible During the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

On clear days, prominent mountain views may include:

• Dhaulagiri I – 8,167 m
• Annapurna I – 8,091 m
• Annapurna South – 7,219 m
• Machhapuchhre / Fishtail – 6,993 m
• Hiunchuli – 6,441 m
• Nilgiri
• Tukuche Peak
• Additional peaks of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges

The most extensive panorama is generally experienced from Poon Hill, while Ghandruk and Tadapani provide particularly beautiful close views toward Annapurna South, Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhre.

Why Choose This Nepal Tour?

This itinerary is especially suitable for international travellers who want more than a trekking-only holiday. It combines the UNESCO cultural heritage of Kathmandu, lakes and Himalayan views of Pokhara, an eight-day Annapurna foothill trek, the sacred Buddhist history of Lumbini and the wildlife of Chitwan National Park.

Rather than rushing from one attraction to another, the trip introduces several different geographical regions of Nepal: Kathmandu Valley, the middle Himalayan hills, the Annapurna foothills, the southern Terai plains and the forests of Chitwan.