Kathmandu with Annapurna Trek 9 Days
Kathmandu with Annapurna Trek
8 Nights / 9 Days
5 STAR HOTEL PACKAGE PRICE
2-6 Person US$1,394 Per Person
1 Person US$1,595 Per Person
Single Surcharge US$400
4 STAR HOTEL PACKAGE PRICE
2-6 Person US$1,266 Per Person
1 Person US$1,466 Per Person
Single Surcharge US$360
3 STAR HOTEL PACKAGE PRICE
2-6 Person US$1,077 Per Person
1 Person US$1,277 Per Person
Single Surcharge US$176
STANDARD HOTEL PACKAGE PRICE
2-6 Person US$1,013 Per Person
1 Person US$1,149 Per Person
Single Surcharge US$80
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Price Includes:
Five night lodging in quality hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara on twin sharing with breakfast,
3 nights / 4 days trekking with overnights in comfortable lodge accommodation (en-route trek lodging will be as per local standards), hot shower,
Meals: 8 breakfast, 5 lunches and 3 dinners are included in the price,
Lunch is served en-route at local inns and restaurants and breakfast and dinners served at the lodge you stay overnight,
Tour activities as mentioned in the itinerary,
Domestic flight Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu including departure tax,
Transfers on arrivals, departures and during the tour,
English speaking local tour guide service on sightseeing tour,
Trekking guide and porter service while on trek,
Entrance fees to monuments and Annapurna Conservation Area Project,
Nepalese staff insurance.
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Explore the UNESCO declared seven Cultural World Heritage sites in the Kathmandu Valley (Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Patan Durbar squares (ancient palaces, temples and museums of great artistic and historical values to admire), Swayambu and Bouddha stupas, Changu Narayan and Pashupati temples); enjoy the breathtaking snowcapped Himalayan views and scenic vistas of the Kathmandu Valley and beyond; and then take a 30 minute scenic flight to Pokhara to see the awe-inspiring mountain views, scenic vistas, and the Nepali people’s way of life in the valleys of these majestic mountains; trek the scenic foothills of Annapurna Massif to sample yourself how fun it is to trek to enjoy the beauty of Annapurna Himalayan range. The four day trekking program included in this package from Pokhara is easy to moderate. Anyone in reasonable shape can do this hike to enjoy.
Weather: October-November and March-May is cool mornings and evening and warm day time temperatures; and December-February is cool to cold mornings and evening and warm day time temperatures
Trek Rating: Easy to moderate
Best Time: September to May
Lodging: Hotel and lodge
Kathmandu Valley:
Welcome to Nepal, the land of the Himalaya! Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is situated at 4,423 feet above sea level. The valley is surrounded by green hills, terraced fields and towering snow-capped peaks in the distant background. Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Patan are the major towns in the valley. All three are of great historic, cultural and artistic interests. The architectural history of the valley is said to have begun with the Lichhavi and the Malla kings. Today, the ancient monuments and temples are the center of attraction for visitors, particularly the seven World Heritage Sites, designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Brief description of each site is provided in the itinerary below.
Ancient temples and monuments and diverse cultural groups their home valley today.
It is the base camp for all visitors to Nepal and a perfect place to explore history and culture of this Himalayan country.
Pokhara:
Pokhara is an extraordinary landscape and one of the most attractive destinations in Nepal. The treasures of Pokhara include the tranquility of Phewa Lake, spectacular views of Annapurna range including Mount Machhapuchhare (Fish Tail), green hills, terraced farm slopes, countless species of vegetation, rushing rivers in a tropical-like environment. Pokhara is, since ancient times, the traditional export center for trade with India and Tibet. Merchants from remote Himalayan regions of Nepal, such as Muktinath and Mustang still come here with mule trains.
This calm city of Pokhara serves as a base camp for trekking and rafting trips through the regions of Annapurna and Western Nepal. Baidam, on the southeastern end of Phewa Lake, is dominated by restaurants, bars, hotels and shops. It is the gathering place for travelers in the western regions of Nepal. The island temple of Barahi is accessible from Baidam by dugout canoes. This two-storied pagoda is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Ajima. On Saturdays, devotees paddle across the lake carrying live animals for sacrifice.
Bindabasini Mandir is a local Hindu temple on the northeast of Phewa Lake in the vicinity of the Old Bazaar. Devotees perform animal sacrifices and have picnics in the courtyard on Saturdays. The Old Bazaar area is still the commercial hub of merchants from the remote Himalaya while Phewa Lake is romantic scenery for holiday makers from around the world.
Itinerary:
Day 1 Arrive Kathmandu, Nepal
Meet on arrival in Kathmandu Airport and transfer to hotel.
Day 2 Kathmandu, Patan, Swayambu and Bouddha stupa (B)
Breakfast at hotel.
Depart to visit ancient palace of Kathmandu, Patan ancient palace, and Swoyambu and Bouddha stupa, four world heritage sites.
Lunch break en-route.
End of tour, transfer to hotel. Meals: B.
Kathmandu Durbar Square:
Kathmandu Durbar Square contains an elegant ancient wooden palace, the house of Kumari, the Living Goddess of Nepal, and various temples with intricate woodcarvings.
The fearsome Kal Bhairab, the Red Monkey god, the house of the living Goddess Kumari, not to mention hundreds of erotic carvings-only begin to unfold the square's cultural imagery!
The buildings here are the greatest achievements of various dynasties that ruled the Kathmandu Valley. They resulted from the great rivalry between the three realms of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Patan. According to legend, the valley was divided among the children of Yaksya Malla. His children and grandchildren began an artistic warfare trying to outdo each other in ever grander styles. As a result, the architectures of these cities look similar, particularly the palace squares. But the wood carvings, statues and architecture in particular-of Kathmandu's Durbar Square are exceptionally fine.
Then, we will visit the fine collections of the Royal Museum inside the old palace of Kathmandu.
Patan -The City of Beauty and Artistry:
We will drive to Patan, the ancient city, also known as "the city of Beauty", situated on the southern bank of the Bagmati River about five kilometers southeast of Kathmandu. Patan is a city of artists, craftsmen and metal workers. Full of Buddhist monuments, Hindu temples with fine bronze gateways, guardian deities and wonderful carvings are found here. Patan Durbar Square has many famous sites and unique architecture. Krishna Mandir in the Square was built to honor an incarnation of Vishnu and is Nepal's best example of stone architecture. The best place to see fine metal sculpture is Hiranya Varna Mahabihar, the "Golden Temple", a Newar monastery, which contains wall paintings, fourteenth century statues, and scriptures. Its facades are mostly covered in bronze.
Swayambu Stupa:
It is said that the history of the Kathmandu Valley began with Swayambu, "self-creating". According to legends, the Buddhist saint Manjushree came across a beautiful lake during his journey in the Valley. He discovered a lotus that emitted brilliant light at the center of the lake. So, he cut a gorge in the southeastern hill (known as Chobar gorge) and drained the water to worship the lotus. People settled in the dried up lake and called it Kathmandu, while the hilltop of the self-creating Lord has become a holy place. The valley being a lake bed is actually not only a fable, but a geologic reality. Clay mines and rich soil bear evidence of the Kathmandu valley's under water past.
Swayambu is not only the major landmark of the valley but also one of the best places to observe the religious harmony of Nepal. Ancient mini stupas and shrines of both Bhudhists and Hindus fill up the stupa complex. This stupa is among the most ancient in this part of the world and its worshippers are diverse. A monastery adjacent to the stupa houses the largest image of Sakyamuni Buddha in Nepal and many stone sculptures of different deities. There are numerous monasteries in the vicinity of the stupa with huge prayer wheels, fine Bhuddhist paintings, and special butter lamps which can be lite after offering a monetary donation. Since we will not spare time to visit all the monasteries, we will visit the main monastery in the stupa complex. On a clear day, this hilltop stupa complex offers excellent views of the Kathmandu Valley and the towering snowcapped peaks in the distant background.
Bouddha Stupa:
Bouddha Stupa is located thirteen kilometers north of downtown Kathmandu or about four kilometers from Pashupati temple area, and is one of the largest stupas in Nepal. It is said that the Bouddha stupa was built by the Lichhavi King Man Dev in the fifth century. Ever since then Tibetan merchants and Buddhist pilgrims have rested and offered prayers here.
Monks, nuns and lay people alike walk around the stupa with prayer wheels in their hands, whispering "OM MANE PADME HUN" meaning "hail to the jewel in the lotus" while extreme devotees undergo rituals of prostration to the Lord Buddha. The Bouddha area is a unique place with full of visual attractions. Vividly colored thankas (tantric Buddhist paintings), hand-woven carpets, jewelry, masks, khukri knives, readymade garments of different ethnic groups, and many other modern and antique crafts are sold here. The visitors and residents around the stupa are as varied as the physical objects one will encounter. The Tamangs were the original inhabitants. Then, refugees entered Nepal from Tibet in the 1950s and many settled around Bouddha stupa. Today, different ethnic groups make their home here.
Day 3 Pashupatinath temples, Bhaktapur city and Changu Narayan temple
Breakfast at hotel and depart to visit three more world heritage sites,
Pashupatinath temple, the Holiest place for the Hindus, Bhaktapur – The city of Devotees, and Changu Nayan temple. All of the above are cultural world heritage sites recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
Lunch break in Bhaktapur.
End of tour, transfer back to your hotel. Meals: B.
Pashupatinath Temple:
This temple is the holiest Hindu pilgrimage destination in Nepal. The shrine of Lord Shiva has existed for at least fifteen hundred years in the Kathmandu Valley. A temple dedicated to Shiva existed at this site in 879 AD. However, the present temple was built by King Bhupatindra Malla in 1697. A gold-plated roof, silver doors, and woodcarvings of the finest quality decorate the pagoda construction.
Rajrajeswari Temple built in 1407, Kailash with Lingas more than 1,400 years old, Goraknath temple, the courtyard of Biswarup, rows of Shiva shrines and Hindu pilgrims from all over South Asia offering worship to Shiva, the Hindu cremation grounds known as Arya Ghat along the Bagmati River are some of the sites that we see on this tour. You may encounter cremation along the bank of the river. Please be cautious in taking pictures of such scene as you might offend the mourning relatives.
Bhaktapur -the city of Devotees:
Here, we walk through the Palace square, visit the palace museum, monuments and the pottery kiln. The name Bhaktapur, means the "city of devotees", and was founded in 889 AD by King Anand Dev.
It is the most enchanting of Kathmandu Valley's three ethnically Newar cities. Newar art and architecture of the Malla periods from about 12th to 18th century are among the best attractions here. The palace complex in the middle of the city portrays the prosperity of the Malla years and the detailed craftsmanship of the period. The Palace of fifty-five Windows stands in the square and was home to many of Bhaktapur's kings. The square's gate was built by King Bhupatindra Malla (1696- 1722) and was among the biggest in the Valley. Among other monuments in Bhaktapur, the big bell, the Nyatapola temple, the golden Gate, the Bhairab Temple, the five-tiered temple, the Dattatreya Square with its wood-carving, and metalwork museum are the most interesting places.
Bhaktapur is not as modernized as Kathmandu and Patan and stands in sharp contrast. Therefore, visitors can still observe people making clay sculptures and utilities in the city alleys. Its elaborate ancient monuments and the surrounding valley with beautifully terraced farms make Bhaktapur a unique destination to visitors.
Changu Narayan Temple:
Perched on a hill and visible from miles around, the Changu Narayan temple stands majestically above the rice fields of Bhaktapur. Dedicated to Vishnu, the Preserver the temple’s origins go back to the 4th century. A fifth century stone inscription in the temple proclaims it as one of the oldest shrines of the Kathmandu Valley. The temple is a showcase for Newari art and architecture of the early century. The stone, wood, and metal craft found here are exemplary.
On the struts of the two-tiered Changu Narayan Temple, are ten incarnations of Narayan. And a 6th Century stone statue shows the cosmic form of Vishnu. Garuda, half man and half bird, is the vehicle of Vishnu, and his life-size statue kneels before the temple.
Day 4 Flight to Pokhara and trek to Dhampus (BLD)
Early morning breakfast, drive to Kathmandu Airport and take a 30 minute scenic flight to Pokhara. Upon arrival at Pokhara Airport, meet our trekking crew at the airport, and drive Phedi, unload and trek to Dhampus Village.
The trek from Phedi to Dhampus is uphill through semi-forest to villages with scenic views. Lunch served en-route.
Overnight at lodge.
Dampus Village is situated on a hill slope and is a mix of Gurung and Magar ethnic village with guesthouses and teahouses. The mountain views and scenic valleys seen from here are superb. We will see spectacular views of the majestic mountains and the valleys at sunset and sunrise.
Day 5 Trek to Landruk (BLD)
wakeup early to view the sunrise over the Himalaya. Breakfast will follow once you are ready. The morning part of the trek is a gradual uphill and goes through a thin forest all along the trail. Some parts of the trek, we will see Himalayan orchids on the trees, different types of vegetation including some tropical broadleaf vines. We will also pass by teahouses, lodges and small scattered villages as we trek. We will see spectacular views of the majestic mountains and the valleys throughout the day. Lunch will be served on the way. Overnight in Landruk, a small Gurung village with several lodges.
Overnight at lodge.
Day 6 Trek Ghandruk (BLD)
Breakfast and trek to Ghandruk, a big Gurung village. The trek takes you down to the Modhi Khola (river) and uphill until you reach Ghandruk. You will see scenic valleys with terraced farmlands and snowcapped peaks towering above. Once you reach Ghandruk, you will have spectacular views of Annapurna Himalayan range. Overnight at lodge in Ghandruk. Afternoon, visit Annapurna Conservation Office, schools and homes (time permitting). Overnight at lodge.
Day 7 Trek to Nayapool and drive to Pokhara (BL)
Early breakfast, and trek to Nayapool and drive to Pokhara.
Today's trek is scenic and easy downhill.
Overnight at hotel by the Phewa Lake.
Day 8 Pokhara tour and afternoon flight to Kathmandu (BL)
Breakfast and trek to Peace Pagoda above the Phewa lake.
Then, trek back and take a canoe to visit the temple of Barahi situated on a small island. This two-storied pagoda is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Ajima. On Saturdays, devotees paddle across the lake carrying live animals for sacrifice. Then, return to hotel, check out, have lunch, and transfer to Pokhara Airport for a flight to Kathmandu. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to hotel.
Day 9 Departure from Kathmandu (B)
Breakfast at hotel and transfer to airport for your flight.
Price Includes:
Five night lodging in quality hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara on twin sharing with breakfast,
3 nights / 4 days trekking with overnights in comfortable lodge accommodation (en-route trek lodging will be as per local standards), hot shower,
Meals: 8 breakfast, 5 lunches and 3 dinners are included in the price,
Lunch is served en-route at local inns and restaurants and breakfast and dinners served at the lodge you stay overnight,
Tour activities as mentioned in the itinerary,
Domestic flight Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu including departure tax,
Transfers on arrivals, departures and during the tour,
English speaking local tour guide service on sightseeing tour,
Trekking guide and porter service while on trek,
Entrance fees to monuments and Annapurna Conservation Area Project,
Nepalese staff insurance.
Price Does Not Include:
Visa fees, international airfares and departure tax,
Lunch and dinners in Kathmandu and Pokhara are not included,
Personal medical and travel insurance, personal expenses for alcohol and soft beverages including bottled water, telephone, laundry, tips,
Charges for delays caused by situations beyond our control such as bad weather, natural disasters, political unrest, accidents and emergency rescue fees are not included in the trip price.
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