Nepal, Annapurnas | Walking & Trekking
- Grade:
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Strenuous
Suitable for fit individuals who have regular experience of mountain walking.
Find out more...
Strenuous
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- Duration: 18 days from the UK
- On trek: 10 days
- Private Departures Available
Flight inclusive from £3440, Land only from £2150
An exhilarating trek to the isolated villages of Naar and Phu in the little-visited northern reaches of the Annapurna mountains.
Highlights
- Trek in a truly remote region of Nepal far from the busier trails of the nearby Annapurnas.
- Discover magnificent, varied and unspoilt scenery from lush river valleys to dramatic high-desert terrain.
- Cross the Kang La Pass and enjoy sweeping vistas of the Annapurna Massif.
- Explore the Tibetan-style villages of Naar and Phu where life has remained little-changed for centuries.
- Stay in simple tea houses for an authentic Nepali trekking experience.
Reviews
In the shadow of the Annapurna mountain range, just south of the Tibetan border, lie the wildly beautiful valleys of Naar and Phu. Only opened to trekkers in the year 2000, they remain largely unknown and virtually untouched by the roads and development that have blighted the nearby Annapurna Circuit.
From its starting point at Dharapani on the eastern edge of the Annapurnas, this adventurous trek begins by heading north, away from the busy circuit trail, following the steep-sided gorge carved by the Phu River. Waterfalls, cable bridges and rock-cut paths mark your progress as the trail gradually ascends into a vast, barren valley encased by sheer mountain walls and headed by lofty, snow-dusted Himalayan peaks. It's simply breathtaking!
Over the course of five days you trek as far north as the isolated village of Phu where the traditional stone houses are stacked close together on ascending rocky terraces. You have a day to explore, meet some of the hardy locals and walk to its brightly coloured gompa perched high above the valley floor. You then retrace your steps for a day before turning west into a smaller river valley leading to the village of Naar. As with Phu, the strong Buddhist-Tibetan influence in the region is evidenced by mani walls, patterned chortens, ancient monasteries and the stone gateways that mark the village entrances. You'll also observe the timeless traditions of the local people, little-changed over many centuries.
From Naar, it's a steep climb to reach the dizzying heights of the Kang La Pass, but your exertions will be well rewarded by the remarkable panorama of mountain peaks that you can see from this 5,300m high viewpoint including mighty Annapurna II at almost 8,000m. A worthy successor to the Thorong La Pass of the Annapurna Circuit, you will gain an equal sense of fulfilment before heading sharply down to Ngawal and trek end at Upper Pisang beside the picturesque Marshyangdi River.
Staying in simple tea houses, the trekking on this trip is designed to give you the best acclimatisation with gradual ascent and a rest day before you reach the high pass. The trails are in a generally good condition although the path is narrow and exposed in places with challenging ascents and descents. The days vary from as little as 3 hours of walking to 6-9 hours on longer days. It is an excellent Himalayan adventure for the experienced trekker looking for something to rival the classic trails but that is genuinely off-the-beaten-track.
Private Departures
Naar Phu Circuit Trek - Private Departures
If you would prefer to travel just with your partner, friends or family, we can arrange a private departure of this holiday. You follow the same itinerary, but travel on dates that suit you. Alternatively we can include elements of this holiday in a bespoke Tailor Made itinerary. Contact our friendly team for details and prices, and to make a booking.
At a glance
Strenuous
Duration: 18 days from the UK
On trek: 10 days
Max. Altitude: 5,300m/17,389ft, Kang La Pass, Day 13
Private Departures Available
Guaranteed to run for a minimum of 4 clients
Maximum group size: 12
Accommodation types: Hotel, Tea Houses
Meal arrangements: All meals on trek, bed and breakfast in Kathmandu.
Itinerary overview
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1-3 | Fly to Kathmandu. Walking tour of the city's main sights. |
| 4 | Drive to Dharapani.via Besishar. |
| 5-6 | Trek to Chhaucha Odar via Koto. |
| 7-8 | Trek to Kyang Via Meta. |
| 9-10 | Trek to Phu. Rest and exploration day. |
| 11-12 | Trek to Naar Gaon via Naar Phedi. |
| 13-14 | Cross the Kang la Pass and descend to Ngawal. Trek to Upper Pisang and end trek. |
| 15-17 | Return to Kathmandu via Besishar. |
| 17-18 | Overnight flight to London |
Leader: Local Leader, Nepal
Whether it's a cultural tour, gentle walking holiday or strenuous trek, our holidays in Nepal are led by professionally-trained English speaking leaders. They have an intimate and expert knowledge of the history, culture and nature of Nepal and will make your trip a memorable experience.
Holiday Itinerary
Day 1 - Fly London to Kathmandu
Depart London on your overnight flight to Kathmandu.
Overnight: In Flight
Day 2 - Arrive Kathmandu. Transfer to hotel.
On arrival in Kathmandu you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax at your hotel or explore the local area. You’re staying in the Thamel district of Kathmandu, the tourist heart of the city, so there are numerous shops, cafes, bars and restaurants to enjoy on your doorstep. Your hotel is also the home of the Musuem of Nepali Art (MONA) and you may like to browse their interesting collection of artworks during your stay.
Overnight: Kathmandu Guest House Or Similar, Kathmandu
Day 3 - Morning at leisure. Afternoon guided sightseeing tour.
After a leisurely morning you will head out head on foot for an afternoon of guided sightseeing. Your tour will encompass the most important cultural and historic sights in central Kathmandu. These will include Durbar Square which houses many ancient palaces and temples built in the classic Newari style. The entire square is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will also visit Swayambunath Temple (also known as the Monkey Temple) famed for its whitewashed dome and golden spire from which four all-seeing Buddha eyes look out in every direction. Once your tour is finished you will return to your hotel.
Overnight: Kathmandu Guest House Or Similar, Kathmandu
Day 4 - Drive to Dharapani, 1,860m/6,102ft, via Besishar – 9-10 hours driving.
This morning you will be picked up from your hotel for the drive to Dharapani. Your journey takes you through deep gorges as you trace the Trisuli River westwards. You will pass through the small town of Mugling where the Trisuli and Marshyangdi rivers meet. The town also serves as the crossroads between Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan in the south. Your road now follows the Marshyangdi River which will be your companion all the way to Dharapani, and soon you will gain your first sight of the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges.
Upon arrival at the town of Besishar you will swap to a 4x4 vehicle. The road becomes an exciting track which is quite rough and bumpy but offers spectacular scenery. As you are now on the traditional route of the Annapurna Circuit you will likely pass trekkers as you make your way to Dharapani.
It will be a welcome relief to get to Dharapani where your well-situated tea houselooks out onto a fast-flowing river, mountains and valley. There are great views across the river to the towering rock face that forms the other side of the valley. It will be an evening of anticipation and final preparations in readiness for the start of your trek in the morning.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 5 - Trek to Koto, 2,600m/8,530ft, 5-6 hours.
You will be woken this morning with tea in bed and the welcoming sight of the first morning rays of the sun on the high peaks. After breakfast you will start walking gently uphill, with the fresh morning air and the sights and sounds of nature all around you. As the sun warms the chill morning air you will hear birdcalls and see multi-coloured butterflies mimicking prayer flags gently fluttering in the breeze. Behind you the impressive sight of the snow-covered summit of Manaslu will come into view. From here the path zigzags and the views get better and better as you climb through the forest of towering pine trees. The trail soon opens up to a 360 degree panorama with Manaslu as the focal point. The eighth highest mountain on the planet, its distinctive 8,163m summit dominates the skyline.
For the rest of the afternoon your route contours around the valley until your reach Koto. This small village sits in the shadow of mighty Annapurna II which, when lit up by the moon, shines astonishingly brightly.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 6 - Trek to Chhaucha Oder, 3,010m/9,875ft - 4-5 hours.
This morning you will need your permits ready as you will be passing through the checkpoint that marks your official entry into the restricted Naar Phu region. It’s important to be topped up with water before you leave today as there are very few places to fill up en route.
Heading northwards, you cross the Marshyangdi River on a cable suspension bridge (the first of several today) and start the ascent of the Naar Phu Khola Gorge. At this point you will be leaving the Annapurna Circuit trail and you will notice that the track quickly changes into a narrow path, cut into the rock wall of the gorge in places, requiring careful attention.
You ascend through beautiful pine forest crossing the Phu Khola three further times on suspension bridges. The walk is mostly in the shade of a deep gorge with the views of the Annapurna Massif behind you. Be aware that a small amount of road building has begun in this area but so far works have progressed very slowly and there is limited activity.
You will reach your overnight stop at lunchtime and have the afternoon to relax. You are at a place called Chaucha Oder, in the middle of dense, mixed forest. This is not a village but was traditionally used as a place to shelter (‘oder’ means cave) by sheep herders and the people of Naar Phu travelling up the gorge. There is only one tea house here and you’ll experience a real sense of peace and remoteness.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 7 - Trek to Meta, 3,560m/11,680ft - 5-6 hours.
Today’s route meanders through a forest of pine and juniper trees and mixed scrub. You cross several suspension bridges and pass some hot springs to reach Dharmasala. From here you ascend through Juniper scrub to reach Meta Stream and pass beneath a waterfall which tumbles over a rock ledge above. You then climb to your first pass on loose moraine and glacier debris. From the pass you will be greeted by the welcome sight of tonight’s stop in front of you, the remote mountain village of Meta.
The village provides a great vantage point with views stretching all the way back along the valley where you have walked, and in front to the Kang La Pass which you are heading towards. You will have the remainder of the day to relax and enjoy the sensational views.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 8 - Trek to Kyang, 3,800m/12,468ft - 5-6 hours
As the skies clear and the sun rises this morning the mountains slowly reveal themselves in their full glory. It’s a magical way to start the day accompanied by a warming cup of chai. Stepping back out on the trail you again follow the Phu Khola on a fairly level or gently uphill path. As you progress, make sure to look to the left and you’ll see the settlement of Naar Phedi which you will reach in a few days time.
You will stop for lunch in a tea house in the tiny seasonal village of Chyako after which you climb to Upper Chyakao to reach a vantage point that gives you truly stupendous views of the Phu Valley and its surrounding peaks.
As you descend, you’ll be greeted with views of Kyang village which enjoys a spectacular location. Situated on a broad plateau, high above the river, Kyang is surrounded by parched grassland and sheer rock faces above which tower impressive, snowy peaks. A scattering of just few houses and a blue-stoned mani wall, the settlement is mainly used by families who migrate down from the higher summer pastures with their small herds of yaks to avoid the harsh winter weather. For the remainder of the year Kyang provides a beautiful overnight stopping point for the few trekkers who pass through en route to Phu. If the skies are clear tonight look to the skies as you may get views of the Milky Way.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 9 - Trek to Phu, 4,080m/13,386ft - 4 hours.
You head out this morning towards Phu starting off by descending towards the valley floor then following the Phu Khola River upstream. Your path is narrow in places, carved out of the steep walls of the river gorge, so be careful of your step. You will notice how stark the landscape now is with little vegetation of note, although keep an eye out for blue sheep who may be spotted clambering nimbly over the rock face.
From the valley floor you face a short, sharp climb past several chortens and mani walls to reach the stone gates of Phu that mark the start of the village territory. Don’t forget to add a stone to the cairn that has formed at the gate. From here it is a gentle walk into the beautiful village and your tea house accommodation for the next two nights. You’ll have time to explore the buildings and houses of this relatively large village which are built citadel-like on rock tiers. It is a remarkable and timeless place set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Kangla Himal mountain range.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 10 - Acclimatisation/rest day and walk to Tashi Choling Gompa, 4,746m/15,571ft – 2-3 hours walk.
Today you have time to rest and acclimatise with a leisurely walk around the village and up to the Tibetan style hilltop monastery (a second monastery lies on the opposite bank of the river), a sign of the shared history Phu has with Tibet. The border with Tibet is not much further north of Phu and in the past the local villagers would regularly trade with their neighbours. As a result the village is a fascinating mixture of cultures. The village itself resembles a hill fort and is a rabbit warren of little paths and tracks leading to people's homes and barley stores. The main crop here is barley which is harvested in early October, a time when the whole village is alive with activity. As you explore the village, and meet some of the local people, you may be offered a glass of raksi (barley liquor) or, alternatively, a cup of butter tea which is a Tibetan staple.
The walk up to Tashi Choling Monastery, sitting high above the village, is well worthwhile both for the cultural interest of the gompa itself and the views of the summit of Pokharkan, 6,346/30,821ft. It's also valuable for acclimatisation ahead of your crossing of the Kang La Pass in a few day’s time.
Phu is also the gateway for climbers aiming to summit nearby Himlung Himal and, if you are feeling particularly energetic, there may be the option for a longer walk today to Himlung Base Camp situated further along the valley at 4,850m.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 11 - Trek to Naar Phedi, 3,490m/11,450ft - 6-7 hours.
You retrace your steps this morning passing once again through Kyang and Chyako, but before reaching Meta you turn to the west and cross the Phu Khola following the path to Naar Phedi.
Tonight’s accommodation is a little different as it’s a tea house run by a nearby monastery. The rooms here are often used by the monks from the monastery.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 12 - Trek to Naar Gaon, 4,200m/13,780ft - 4-5 hours.
It's a half day walk to Naar Gaon, but the morning still involves a fair amount of climbing so take it steady and enjoy the views. Later in the morning you reach a large stone gateway, topped by prayer flags which marks the outer limits of Naar Gaon.
As you pass through the gateway you will see a brightly coloured mani wall and get your first glimpse of Naar. It’s very different from Phu with several colourful gompas and a broad sweep of surrounding agricultural land. The houses themselves are built into the hillside, stacked one on top of the other and linked by small wooden ladders and narrow paths. It is fascinating to go for a walk, meet the friendly local people and see them living lives little changed over time.
Yaks play a central role in the livelihood of the local people, and you will therefore encounter a lot of yaks in the village; they are big creatures and should be treated with respect - don’t get too close!
Overnight: Tea House
Day 13 - Trek to Ngawal, 3,660m/12,008ft, via the Kang La Pass 5,300m/17,389ft – 8-9 hours.
Today you’ll cross the Kang La Pass so an early start is a good idea. It’s going to be a long, hard day so be sure to take plenty of water as there are limited options once you set off. It’s also a day for using trekking poles both to help propel you up and to lessen the impact of the downhill on your knees.
Leaving Naar through the village gates you soon start climbing, and the next four hours or so will be spent heading slowly up to the pass – a climb of around 700m. As you get higher you may encounter snow on the path and need to wear Yak-Trax over your walking boots. Your trek leader will supply these if necessary. Upon finally reaching the summit you will see a multitude of prayer flags that surround the sign marking the pass and the highest point of your entire trek.
As you reach the jagged crest at the top of the Kang La Pass you will have time to stop, rest and enjoy the truly spectacular views. Laid out before you is a sweeping panorama embracing the villages and peaks of the Upper Manang Valley and the looming giants of the Annapurna Massif: Annapurna II, Gangapurna and Tilicho Peak. Your camera will be working overtime!
From here it’s downhill all the way to Ngawal. The trail is quite steep and scree-like to start with so take care, but it does eventually level out somewhat. As you look back up to the pass it’s hard to grasp the scale of how far you’ve come as there are no trees to judge distances. You should expect a good three hours or more of descent to reach Ngawal and your welcoming tea house for the night.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 14 - Trek to Upper Pisang. Visit gompa in the afternoon - 4-5 hours 3,284m/10,774ft.
Today is the final day of your trek but there’s still plenty to savour. The scenery is now green and lush, especially as you descend to the picturesque Marshyangdi River Gorge. You’ll also notice the trail getting busier with other trekkers as you meet back up with the popular Annapurna Circuit trail. Your final overnight stop is at Upper Pisang where you will celebrate the end of your trek with your crew who will by now have become firm friends.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 15 - Drive to Besishar - 5-6 hours driving.
Saying farewell to your trek crew, it’s time to begin the long journey back to Kathmandu. You will be in 4x4 vehicles today as you make the return drive to your overnight stop in Besishar.
Overnight: Tea House
Day 16 - Drive to Kathmandu – approximately 7 hours driving.
Switching to more comfortable vehicles, you drive to your hotel in Kathmandu today. It will feel like pure luxury in comparison to the tea houses you’ve been staying in on the trail. The evening is free for you to enjoy a meal and perhaps a celebratory drink or two in Thamel as you reflect on your great adventure.
Overnight: Kathmandu Guest House Or Similar, Kathmandu
Day 17 - Transfer to airport. Depart Nepal.
You will have much of the day free before a late afternoon transfer takes you to the airport in time for your overnight flight home.
Overnight: In flight
Day 18 - Arrive UK.
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Single Room Supplement Kathmandu
From £125
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Flight inclusive holidays
The 'flight inclusive' holiday prices shown on this website are based upon our preferred airlines and the best priced economy class fares we are able to secure at the time of publication.
We will be able to advise on fares with alternative airlines, upgrades to Business Class, and the options for flights from regional UK airports, please contact us for more details.
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Deposit
From £400.00
For the majority of our holidays, a deposit payment of £400.00 per person is required to secure your place(s), however a small number of holidays require a higher deposit - please refer to the holiday itinerary for more details. If the holiday departs within 60 days, a deposit of £1,000.00 per person is required.
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- Book your small group holiday securely online – click the ‘Book’ button next to your chosen departure or visit our How to Book page
- Complete and return a Booking Form available to download here.
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What’s included
- A Sherpa leader
- All hotel/airport transfers
- Good standard hotel accommodation in Kathmandu, twin share basis
- Kathmandu half day sightseeing tour
- 11 nights in tea houses, on a twin share basis
- All road transport by private vehicles
- All meals on trek including tea and coffee
- An evening fill up of your water bottle with drinking water and morning 'bed' tea on trek
- Sleeping bag and down jacket hire.
- Trek staff and full porterage
- Sherpa/porters properly insured and equipped
- Park and permit fees
- Economy class return air fares from the UK & UK departure tax (flight inclusive option only)
- Carbon offset for flights (flight inclusive option only)
What’s not included
- Travel insurance
- Visa fees
- Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu
- Domestic departure tax (if applicable)
- Tips
Extend your holiday
- Spend two or more tranquil nights in rural Pokhara
- Sample the organic and locally sourced Nepali cuisine
- Idyllic setting with mountain views
- The resorts offers a swimming pool, spa and gym
- Eco-friendly
We are delighted to offer this new luxury stay in a rural location just outside Pokhara. We are sure this is set to become a favourite with our clients.
The Pavilions Himalayas is a luxury resort set in beautiful farmland amid paddy fields in a tranquil rural location approximately 5km outside Pokhara. There are dramatic mountain views from the resort as well as Pokhara’s famous Peace Pagoda seen on top of a nearby ridge.
The beautiful rooms are set in individual villas and are large and comfortable, all having whirlpool baths, separate rain shower cubicles, enormous beds and offering wonderful hand made soaps and shampoos made with herbs from their garden.
All facilities at the resort are top of the range and include a lovely swimming pool and spa. From the resort it is just a short drive to explore Pokhara or there are pleasant walks from the hotel or you can just chill at the resort, have a massage and enjoy the facilities.
- Observe traditional crafts such as pottery, woodcarving and thangka painting
- Choose from a selection of full and half day guided tours
- Travel in a private car with a driver and an English-speaking guide
The Kathmandu Valley has a long and rich history and a vibrant culture and there is much that is worthwhile to see there - crowded bazaars, ancient temples, Buddhist stupas, crumbling shrines and picturesque palaces. The Malla kings who ruled in the valley created three major cities in the valley, Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Patan and each of these cities has buildings that are showpieces for the art and architecture of local Newari craftsmen. We offer a selection of half day trips and full day trips to these sites the valley.
- Koshi Tappu is home to over 500 species of birds
- Look out for exciting wildlife like jungle cats, crocodiles and rare water buffalo
- Explore the park by foot, raft and jeep
- Stay in the pleasantly located Koshi Camp
Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is one of the finest birdwatching and wildlife areas in all Asia. Located in south-east Nepal, the reserve covers 175 square kilometres with large expanses of open water created by the Koshi barrage, with marshes, lagoons, sandbanks and mudflats offering an outstanding wetland habitat. The reserve is home to over 500 species of birds, with the resident inhabitants being joined by large numbers of migratory species from Siberia and Tibet, which take up residence from November to February. The Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve provides one of the best places in Nepal to view migratory water fowl, waders and shore birds with many species seen here which are not recorded elsewhere in the region.
There is also much wildlife to be seen in Koshi Tappu including blue bull, golden jackal, Bengal fox, fishing cat, jungle cat, mongoose, civet cat, porcupine, Indian flying foxes and rare Gangetic dolphins as well as rare Marsh Mugger crocodiles. In addition, Koshi Tappu is the last habitat of the endangered Arna, a type of wild water buffalo.
During your visit you will explore the park with bird and animal spotting from a raft trip on the Koshi River, birdwatching walks, jungle walks and jeep trips. You will also have the opportunity to visit a family in one of the very interesting nearby local villages for a taste of rural Nepalese life. The Koshi Camp offers simple but comfortable accommodation and an expert staff of naturalists and birdwatchers to give you a comprehensive introduction to this wonderful area.
- Relax in luxuriously furnished accommodation with stunning Himalayan views
- Relax and rejuvenate in the top of the range spa
- Take a dip in the refreshing infinity pool
- Enjoy locally sourced organic food at the resort's restaurant
Dwarika’s Resort is a charming hotel located just an hour’s drive from Kathmandu city and set on a ridge above the town of Dhulikhel. At an altitude of 1,700m/5,600ft and enjoying panoramic views of the mountains, Dwarika’s Resort is the perfect way to relax and feel revitalised and rejuvenated. The resort promises ‘a Himalayan approach to well-being in rustic luxury.’
Built in Dwarika’s own inimitable style the resort offers a relaxing atmosphere of complete harmony in the tradition of ancient Buddhist and Hindu beliefs. The rooms are spacious and luxurious and are set in lovely gardens with inspiring mountain views. Facilities include an infinity pool overlooking beautiful countryside, top of the range spa facilities, a fitness centre, a Chakra sound therapy centre and a Himalayan salt room and meditation room all inspired by a blend of Vedic Philosophy and Buddhist Medicine.
The resort offers an impressive range of ayurvedic treatments as well as yoga and meditation and classes. Its wonderful restaurants offer delicious food, sourced locally and from Dwarika’s own organic farm, with delicious menus carefully created to complement Dwarika’s philosophy and treatments. Other activities include lovely walks to visit their farm or to explore the surrounding area and visit traditional villages such as the legendary Namobuddha Monastery or the Newari village of Panauti, to experience the simple joys of Nepalese rural life.
- Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara in the Annapurna range of Nepal
- The lodge is an ideal base for you to relax in a rural mountain setting
- Beautiful outdoor swimming pool reflecting view of the Annapurna range
- Delicious Nepali dishes & continental specialities made from local fresh ingredients, home-grown herbs & garden salads
Why not extend your adventure in Nepal by visiting the beautiful Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge. Tiger Mountain Pokhara lodge is a lovely place, situated on a ridge half an hour outside Pokhara and enjoying the most stunning mountain views over the Annapurna range of mountains.
The lodge is an ideal base for you to relax in a rural mountain setting, away from the bustle of town. With a central lodge, bar and dining room, the comfortable rooms are arranged in clusters of cottages resembling a Nepali village. All have attached bathrooms, private verandas and Himalayan views. Daily menus feature a range of Nepali dishes as well as continental specialities made from local fresh ingredients and home-grown herbs and garden salads. You may enjoy lovely walks through the forests and villages of the lovely countryside surrounding the lodge, escorted by trained local guides. The beautiful swimming pool reflects the distant white peaks of the Annapurna range. The lodge also offers a range of Ayurvedic and shiatsu therapy and yoga and meditation sessions are also available (at additional cost). You may also venture further afield to visit Pokhara, Nepal’s second city located on a lovely lake and also enjoying spectacular views.
- Activities include; bird watching, elephant washing, canoe ride, elephant experience, landrover safari and jungle walks
- Choice of accommodation from budget to luxury
- Suitable to add to any holiday flying in/out of Kathmandu
Why not extend your adventure in Nepal by visiting Nepal’s jungle region for a complete contrast to the high mountains and the Kathmandu Valley. Chitwan is home to a rich and varied wildlife. Here are found wild elephant, rhinos, leopard, sambar, chital (spotted) deer, wild boar and arguably the most magnificent of cats, the Royal Bengal Tiger. You may even see sloth bear, gaur (wild cattle) and crocodiles. Chitwan is also wonderful for birdlife especially in the spring, when the jungle rings day and night to the calls of several kinds of Asian cuckoo.
- Jungle activities including an elephant experience, bird watching, rafting and nature walks
- See wild elephant, rhinoceros, leopard, deer, wild boar and if you are lucky, the famous Royal Bengal Tiger
- Stay at the delightful Tiger Tops Karnali Lodge situated on the edge of the park
After your adventurous time in the Himalaya why not add a relaxing Jungle Safari to your trip? The Royal Bardia National Park is situated in the west of Nepal. We use Tiger Tops Karnali Lodge, which is acknowledged to be the best lodge in the area. Bardia’s remote geographic location and the fact that the lodge has only 12 rooms, lends a degree of exclusivity to the experience, in comparison to other more popular parks. From the lodge you will be able to participate in safaris and have the chance of seeing some of the country’s wonderful wildlife, for instance, wild elephant, rhinoceros, leopard, deer, wild boar and if you are lucky, the famous Royal Bengal Tiger. There is also the possibility of visiting the villages of the Tharu tribal people that surround the lodge. With its abundant wildlife, relaxing lodge and first class service, our Bardia extension is an experience you will savour!
- 5-day cultural tour or 8-day gentle walking options available
- See the main sights in Paro, Thimphu and Punakha
- Bhutan is just a short flight from Kathmandu
Though only a short flight from Kathmandu, Bhutan offers a very different Himalayan experience to Nepal. Characterised by lush valleys, terraced hillsides and soaring peaks the landscape is endlessly picturesque, whilst the imposing dzongs (monastery/fortresses) and Swiss chalet style houses give each town or village a look that is distinctly Bhutanese. Here are just two options – if you would prefer something different please discuss with this office.
A taste of Bhutan - five-day cultural tour This five-day tour visits Bhutan’s key sights and cultural centres including magnificent Taksang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), the beautiful riverside dzong at Punakha and the fascinating treasures housed in the National Museum at Paro. The tour will be led by a knowledgeable Bhutanese guide and accommodation is in comfortable hotels with all meals included.
A short walk in Bhutan - eight-day gentle walking and cultural tour This eight-day gentle walking trip offers the perfect introduction to some of the cultural highlights and scenic delights of Bhutan. You begin with sightseeing om Thimphu and a walk to Cheri Monastery, one of Bhutan’s most historic temples before travelling over the Dochu La Pass to Punakha, the former winter capital. In Punakha you take a lovely valley walk and visit the beautiful riverside dzong. Driving back to Paro you take a pretty walk from the Dochu La through beautiful forest. You then drive up to the Chele La Pass and take the lovely walk to Kila Nunnery, before ending your trip with the walk up to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Bhutan’s greatest cultural treasure and a fitting conclusion to a superb extension. You will stay in good quality, comfortable hotels throughout and all meals are included.
- Escape the crowds and hustle and bustle of Kathmandu
- Walks available from the cottage - explore the nearby countryside
- Single and double rooms available, or exclusive hire of the entire cottage
- Breakfast and dinner included, plus unlimited tea and coffee
While in Kathmandu, why not experience an exclusive, private, home away from home? Shivapuri Heights Cottage is a “home-stay-style” property that offers a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the City. It is located in 2 acres of land at an altitude of 6,000ft /1,830m on the edge of the protected Shivapuri Reserve, with beautiful views looking down into the Kathmandu Valley.