Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a friendly representative from Lost in the Himalaya will be there to warmly welcome you and assist with your transfer to the hotel. After you’ve had some time to rest and settle in, we’ll gather for a welcome dinner and a detailed trip briefing to officially kickstart your unforgettable Nepal adventure.

Today, we dive deep into the rich cultural and historical tapestry of Kathmandu. Our morning begins with a visit to the sacred Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, perched high on a hill overlooking the valley. This ancient site offers not only spiritual significance but also panoramic views of Kathmandu sprawling below. After soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and spinning the prayer wheels, we descend into the heart of the city to explore Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, centuries-old palaces, intricate courtyards, and stunning temples tell stories of Nepal’s royal past. As the day unfolds, we venture into the lively Asan Bazaar — a vibrant maze of narrow lanes teeming with local life, colorful spices, textiles, and hidden shrines. It’s a place where the ancient and modern worlds collide, offering an authentic taste of daily life in Kathmandu. Throughout the day, you’ll be immersed in the unique rhythm, colors, and soul of Nepal’s capital.

Today our journey continues to the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most revered Hindu pilgrimage sites, where devotees gather along the holy Bagmati River for ceremonies and rituals. Afterward, we marvel at the towering Boudhanath Stupa, a majestic and serene symbol of Tibetan Buddhism, where the eyes of the stupa seem to watch over all who pass by. To end the day, we venture out to the medieval city of Bhaktapur, renowned for its beautifully preserved architecture, cobbled streets, and timeless atmosphere, offering a perfect glimpse into Nepal’s rich heritage before returning to Kathmandu.

We leave the busy streets of Kathmandu behind and embark on a scenic drive toward the beautiful hilltop town of Bandipur. Although the distance is only around 140 kilometers, the journey takes approximately 5 to 6 hours, as we navigate through winding, single-lane mountain roads that offer dramatic views of rivers, valleys, and terraced hills along the way. Upon reaching Bandipur, a beautifully preserved Newari town known for its timeless charm and traditional architecture, we enjoy a relaxing lunch and take a short break to settle in. In the afternoon, we visit a local silkworm farm, where we learn about the fascinating process of silk production, and then wander through the cobbled streets of Bandipur Bazaar, filled with old houses, temples, and vibrant local life. As the sun begins to lower, we take a gentle hike up to Thani Mai Temple, a scenic viewpoint perched above the town, where we are rewarded with a spectacular sunset casting golden hues over the surrounding hills and distant Himalayan peaks.

After breakfast, we lace up our boots and set off on a warm-up hike down towards Siddha Gufa, one of the largest caves in Nepal. The trail descends gently through lush forests and peaceful villages, offering beautiful glimpses of rural life and terraced hillsides. After about an hour and a half of hiking, we reach the entrance of Siddha Gufa. After some time discovering the mysteries of the cave, we continue our descent, eventually finishing the hike near the highway. Our private vehicle will be waiting there to pick us up, and after a short and scenic drive, we arrive in the lively lakeside city of Pokhara. Upon arrival, the rest of the afternoon is free to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

We start the day with an adrenaline rush as we head out for a heart-pounding bungee jump, a thrilling experience with the stunning backdrop of Pokhara’s mountains and rivers, an unforgettable moment that will leave you feeling truly alive. After the excitement of the jump, we shift gears and explore the cultural side of Pokhara with a visit to the beautiful World Peace Pagoda. Perched atop a hill overlooking Phewa Lake and the Annapurna range, the pagoda offers a serene atmosphere and breathtaking panoramic views.

We then make our way to Davi’s Falls, a powerful and mesmerizing waterfall that disappears into an underground passage. After admiring the force of the falls from above, we continue to the nearby Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, one of the longest and most sacred caves in Nepal. As we explore the dimly lit chambers and visit the revered Shiva temple hidden within, the journey through the cave leads us to an incredible view of Davi’s Falls crashing down from the underground — a dramatic and unforgettable sight. After soaking in these spiritual and natural wonders, we return to the vibrant Lakeside district, where the rest of the afternoon is free to stroll through colorful streets lined with cafes, shops, and lively local markets, the perfect place to relax, shop for souvenirs, or simply enjoy the laid-back atmosphere by the lake.

Today marks the beginning of our much-anticipated trekking adventure. After breakfast, we set out on a short but scenic drive to Kande, a small village nestled at the base of the hills and serving as our trailhead. From here, we begin our gentle ascent on a well-marked trail that winds through terraced fields, quiet hillside settlements, and enchanting rhododendron and oak forests. As we gain elevation, the air becomes fresher, and glimpses of snow-capped peaks begin to peek through the trees. The trail steadily climbs (about an hour) to Australian Camp, perched at an altitude of around 2,000 meters. Upon arrival, we are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna range, including Machapuchare (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli, standing majestically in the distance. The peaceful surroundings, crisp mountain air, and sweeping Himalayan vistas make this a perfect spot to pause, acclimatize, and soak in the beauty of the landscape. We spend the rest of the afternoon enjoying the views and the tranquil atmosphere of the mountains.

Leaving the peaceful setting of Australian Camp behind, we continue our journey deeper into the heart of the forested hills. The trail gently meanders through a lush, tranquil landscape dominated by ancient rhododendron and oak woodlands, their moss-covered trunks and dappled sunlight creating a magical, almost storybook atmosphere. The sounds of the forest accompany us—birds calling, leaves rustling, and the occasional rustle of wildlife hidden in the undergrowth. With a bit of luck and quiet footsteps, we might catch glimpses of Himalayan langurs leaping through the trees or spot vibrant, exotic birds like the Himalayan monal—the national bird of Nepal—with its dazzling plumage. The air is cool and fresh, and every turn of the trail offers a new angle of beauty, whether it’s a quiet forest clearing, a bubbling stream, or distant views of snow-dusted peaks. This part of the hike is not just about getting from one place to another — it’s a deeply immersive walk through one of Nepal’s most serene natural landscapes.

We continue our gradual ascent, steadily climbing higher along the ridgeline as the trail opens up to even more expansive views. With every step, the distant sounds of the lowlands fade, replaced by the quiet rustle of leaves and the occasional call of a mountain bird echoing through the still air. Wildflowers and highland ferns dot the sides of the trail, adding bursts of color to the green hillsides. As we gain elevation, the horizon begins to widen, revealing a spectacular sweep of the Annapurna range, each peak more majestic than the last. The climb, though steady, feels energizing, and the sense of anticipation builds as we edge closer to the heart of the Himalayas. It’s a journey where the landscape becomes more dramatic and the connection to nature grows deeper with every step.

Today’s hike takes us from Low Camp (2,970m) to High Camp (3,580m), following one of the most scenic sections of the Mardi Himal trail. The trek takes approximately 4 to 5 hours and leads us along a dramatic ridgeline with jaw-dropping views on either side—deep valleys dropping into misty forests below and the towering, snow-clad peaks of the Annapurna range rising ahead. As we ascend steadily, the vegetation begins to thin, and the landscape transitions from lush rhododendron forests to alpine shrubs and rocky outcrops, signaling our approach to higher altitudes. Colorful prayer flags flutter in the breeze as each turn reveals more of the majestic Himalayan skyline. Upon reaching High Camp, a quiet and remote outpost perched on the ridge, we are surrounded by an amphitheater of peaks. The crisp mountain air and sense of solitude are invigorating. As evening approaches, we’re rewarded with an unforgettable sunset—golden light spills across the slopes of Annapurna South, Mardi Himal glows with fiery orange, and the sharp, iconic summit of Machapuchare stands silhouetted against the sky. We settle in for the night under a sky full of stars, deeply connected to the grandeur of the mountains.

Before dawn, we begin our ascent from High Camp (3,580m) to the Mardi Himal Base Camp viewpoint, located at around 4,200 meters. The early morning hike takes about 2 to 3 hours and leads us along a narrow ridgeline under a starlit sky, with the anticipation of sunrise driving us forward. As daylight breaks, the surrounding peaks come to life — Machapuchare, Annapurna South, and Mardi Himal are bathed in golden and pink hues, creating one of the most unforgettable scenes in the Himalayas. After soaking in the views and capturing the magic, we descend back to High Camp for breakfast. We then continue our journey downhill, trekking for another 2 to 3 hours to reach Badal Danda (3,210m), a peaceful ridge-top settlement often floating above the clouds, where we spend the night surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.

Today’s trek takes us from Badal Danda (3,210m) down to the traditional village of Siding (1,700m), with a descent that takes approximately 4 to 5 hours. We begin our journey along a scenic downhill trail, winding through dense rhododendron and bamboo forests, where sunlight filters through the trees and birdsong echoes in the quiet. As we lose elevation, the landscape becomes greener and more vibrant, with terraced fields and small farms marking our approach to the lower hills. We pass through a handful of peaceful mountain villages, where life flows slowly and locals greet us with warm smiles. Eventually, we arrive in Siding, a beautiful Gurung village nestled among hills and rice paddies. Tonight, we are welcomed into a warm local homestay, where the experience becomes more than just trekking, it becomes cultural immersion. We share a traditional meal with our hosts, enjoy live local music, and join in traditional dances with the villagers. It’s a heartfelt celebration of hospitality, culture, and community, offering a meaningful end to our mountain journey.

After a hearty village breakfast in Siding (1,700m), we say goodbye to the hills and begin our journey back to Pokhara (822m) by vehicle. The drive takes approximately 2 to 3 hours, winding through scenic rural landscapes, past terraced farms, river valleys, and small villages that gradually lead us back to the hustle and charm of city life. Upon arrival in Pokhara, we check into our hotel and indulge in the comforts we’ve missed, a long, hot shower, a soft bed, and the chance to unwind. In the evening, we come together for a well-earned celebratory dinner, sharing stories from the trail, reliving highlights from the trek, and reflecting on the unforgettable journey through the Himalayas. Surrounded by the buzz of Lakeside Pokhara, the contrast between the remote mountain trails and the vibrant city feels both surreal and rewarding.

Today is all about rest, recovery, and optional adventure in Pokhara (822m). After days on the trail, it’s time to treat your body with a well-earned trekkers’ massage — a soothing therapy that helps relieve sore muscles and rejuvenate your energy. For those looking to keep the adrenaline going, Pokhara offers some of Nepal’s most thrilling activities. You can take to the skies with tandem paragliding, soaring above Phewa Lake with panoramic views of the Annapurna range and the city below. Or, if you’re seeking the ultimate thrill, try the ZipFlyer Nepal — the world’s longest and fastest zipline. This high-octane experience launches you from Sarangkot and drops 600 meters in elevation over 1.8 kilometers, reaching speeds of up to 120 km/h. Whether you choose to unwind with a book beside the lake or dive headfirst into adventure, today offers the perfect balance of leisure and excitement in one of Nepal’s most beautiful and lively towns.

We leave Pokhara (822m) in the morning and begin our journey south toward the lowlands of Chitwan (150m), a dramatic change in both landscape and climate. The drive takes approximately 6 to 7 hours in total, but we break up the journey with an exciting stop for white-water rafting on the Trishuli River, one of Nepal’s most popular and scenic rivers for adventure. After a thorough safety briefing, we gear up and paddle through a series of fun, bouncy rapids surrounded by forested hills, rocky gorges, and quiet stretches where we can float and take in the natural beauty. The rafting experience lasts about 2 to 3 hours, offering both thrills and refreshing moments on the water. After changing into dry clothes and enjoying a riverside lunch, we continue our drive toward Chitwan. Upon arrival, we check into a comfortable jungle resort, where a welcome drink and peaceful surroundings await. The evening is free to relax and unwind, whether by strolling through the gardens, enjoying a quiet sunset, or simply listening to the sounds of the nearby forest as night falls.

At just 150 meters above sea level, Chitwan offers a completely different side of Nepal, lush, warm, and teeming with wildlife. Today is all about jungle adventure. We begin with a peaceful canoe ride along the Rapti River, where we may spot marsh mugger crocodiles and a variety of birdlife. Afterward, we set off on a guided jungle walk, learning about the region’s rich ecosystem while keeping our eyes open for deer, wild boars, and rhinos. Later in the afternoon, we embark on a thrilling jeep safari deep into the national park in search of more wildlife, and with a bit of luck, perhaps even the elusive Bengal tiger. In the evening, we enjoy a lively Tharu cultural performance during dinner at the lodge, offering a colorful glimpse into the traditions of the local indigenous community.

After breakfast in Chitwan (150m), we bid farewell to the jungle and begin our journey back to Kathmandu (1,400m). The drive takes approximately 6 to 7 hours, winding through scenic countryside, past lush hills, terraced farmlands, rivers, and small rural towns that offer a final look at Nepal’s diverse landscapes. As we ascend gradually from the southern plains to the Kathmandu Valley, the air cools and the pace of life begins to shift. Upon arrival in the capital, we check into our hotel and enjoy a free evening to unwind. Whether you choose to explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, revisit a favorite café, browse local handicraft shops, or simply relax with a warm drink and reflect on your journey — tonight is yours to enjoy Kathmandu at your own pace.

After breakfast in Kathmandu (1,400m), it’s time to say our goodbyes. Depending on your flight time, you’ll have a few final moments to enjoy the peaceful morning, pack up your memories, and take in one last breath of Himalayan air. At the appropriate hour, a representative from Lost in the Himalaya will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport. With warm hugs and heartfelt farewells, we send you off with unforgettable memories, new friendships, and stories to last a lifetime. For those wishing to continue their journey to the other parts of Nepal can be arranged, just let us know, and we’ll help design the next chapter of your adventure.