Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, travelers are warmly welcomed by their guide and driver. After clearing immigration and collecting luggage, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in the city, where you can rest, refresh, and recover from your international flight. Depending on your arrival time, you may have the opportunity to explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, the main tourist hub, or enjoy a traditional Nepali meal at a local restaurant.

Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is a fascinating city that blends ancient culture with modern life. You’ll notice the bustling markets, colorful temples, prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and historic architecture as you walk through its streets. This day is primarily for adjusting to the city’s rhythm, resting, and preparing for your upcoming trekking adventure or sightseeing tour. Your guide will also provide a briefing on the trek ahead, including tips on packing, acclimatization, and local customs. Overnight stay is at a comfortable hotel in Kathmandu, offering a convenient base to begin your Nepal journey.

After breakfast at your hotel, the day is dedicated to preparing for your upcoming trek and optional Kathmandu sightseeing. Your guide will assist you with checking trekking gear, reviewing your itinerary, discussing acclimatization tips, and answering any last-minute questions to ensure you’re fully prepared for the adventure ahead.

For sightseeing, Kathmandu offers a wealth of cultural and historical attractions, including Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and the vibrant streets of Thamel. These visits provide a glimpse into Nepal’s rich heritage, spirituality, and local life, allowing travelers to connect with the country before setting off on the trek.

Note: You can choose to enjoy Kathmandu sightseeing either before your trek or after it concludes. Please note that only one day of sightseeing is included in your package. If you wish to explore the city on both days, additional costs may apply. This allows you to experience the highlights while keeping your trek schedule comfortable and focused.

Overnight stay is at a comfortable hotel in Kathmandu, giving you a chance to rest, enjoy city views, and finalize preparations for the adventure ahead.

After breakfast in Kathmandu, you’ll begin the journey to Pokhara, the gateway to the Annapurna region. If you choose to drive, the route takes you along the Prithvi Highway, winding through river valleys, terraced fields, and small towns, with glimpses of the Himalayan foothills in the distance. Along the way, you’ll pass by the Trishuli and Marsyangdi Rivers, see local villages with stone houses and terraced farms, and cross suspension bridges over rushing streams. Tea stalls and roadside cafés offer opportunities for refreshments, snacks, and photos of the scenic countryside.

If you choose to fly, the short 30-minute journey offers aerial views of the Trishuli River, terraced hills, forests, and distant mountains, giving a glimpse of the landscapes you’ll trek through in the coming days. Upon arrival in Pokhara, check into your hotel or lodge near Phewa Lake, enjoy a warm meal, and take a relaxing stroll along the lakeside to admire mountain reflections on the water, local shops, and boating activities. This day is primarily for travel and acclimatization, allowing you to prepare for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek ahead.

After breakfast at your Pokhara hotel, you’ll take a short drive or taxi ride to Nayapul, the official starting point of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. The trail begins along the banks of the Modi River, surrounded by lush subtropical forests, terraced fields, and small villages. Early on, you’ll cross wooden suspension bridges over the Modi Khola, hearing the water rushing below and spotting farmers working along the riverbanks.

The trail gradually ascends through local Gurung and Magar villages, passing stone houses adorned with colorful prayer flags. You’ll walk through dense rhododendron and oak forests, with occasional openings revealing views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) peaks in the distance. Midway, stop at a tea house in Hille or Ulleri to rest, refresh, and enjoy panoramic valley views. From Ulleri, the steep stone staircase climb to Tikhedhunga provides a good workout, winding through terraced farms and small hamlets, with glimpses of the Modi River far below.

By late afternoon, you’ll reach Tikhedhunga (1,540m), a charming village nestled in the hills. Check into a lodge, enjoy a warm Nepali meal, and take in the serene views of the surrounding forests and distant mountains, preparing your legs for the longer climb ahead to Ghorepani.

After breakfast at your lodge in Tikhedhunga, the day begins with the famous uphill stone staircase climb through Ulleri. This part of the trail is steep but scenic, as you pass terraced fields, small Magar and Gurung villages, and dense rhododendron and oak forests. Along the way, you’ll hear the chirping of birds, smell the fresh pine-scented air, and see local children walking to school and farmers tending their fields.

The trail gradually opens to beautiful valley views, with glimpses of the Modi River below and distant snow-capped peaks appearing through the trees. Halfway, take a short rest at a tea house, enjoy a cup of tea, and soak in the scenery. The final ascent to Ulleri or nearby Banthanti offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and distant mountains, rewarding your effort. Upon arrival, check into a lodge, enjoy a warm meal, and relax while admiring the peaceful village surroundings and mountain vistas as the sun sets behind the ridges.

After breakfast at your lodge in Ulleri/Banthanti, the trail continues steeply uphill through dense rhododendron, oak, and pine forests, offering shade and fresh mountain air. Along the way, you’ll cross small streams via wooden bridges, and occasionally glimpse terraced fields and small villages clinging to the hillside. Birds sing along the trail, and if it’s spring, the rhododendron forests are in full bloom, painting the path with shades of red and pink.

The climb gradually opens to panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, rewarding the effort with breathtaking scenery. Stop at a tea house en route for refreshments and photos of the valley below. By early afternoon, you’ll reach Ghorepani (2,860m), a charming village perched on a ridge. Check into your lodge, enjoy a warm meal, and prepare for the early morning hike to Poon Hill, one of the most famous viewpoints in Nepal. The sunset views over the mountains from Ghorepani are also spectacular, offering a peaceful evening surrounded by Himalayan peaks.