Expedition Details
On a journey specially crafted with our expert, Carroll Dunham, delve into Nepal's unique culture while experiencing the natural splendor of the Himalaya and the Annapurna ranges. Explore the medieval monasteries and modern sights of vibrant Kathmandu, visit local villages in the Pokhara Valley, and discover the wildlife of Royal Chitwan National Park.Trip Highlights
- Set out on safari on an elephant's back on the lookout for leopards, monkeys, Indian one-horned rhinos, and the elusive Royal Bengal tiger.
- Take an optional scenic flight along the soaring Himalayan range, viewing eight of the ten highest mountains in the world, including magnificent Mount Everest.
- Meet monks, artisans, and healers to learn about Nepal's religious and cultural traditions.
Itinerary - 13 Days
Days 1 & 2 — U.S./Bangkok, Thailand or Delhi, India
Depart on an overnight flight to either Bangkok or Delhi, arriving late the next day.
Novotel Suvarnabhumi Hotel, Bangkok or Trident Gurgaon, Delhi
Day 3 — Bangkok or Delhi/Kathmandu, Nepal
This morning, fly to Kathmandu, a city that was closed to the outside world until the 1950s. Check into our hotel and gather for a festive welcome dinner.
Dwarika's Hotel (D)
Day 4 — Kathmandu/Patan
Begin the day at Pashupatinath, Nepal's most important Hindu temple. Tucked in among the houses that line the banks of the Bagmati River, this UNESCO World Heritage site draws pilgrims from all around the world. Continue to a home for the elderly established by Mother Teresa and learn about the good work being done here. Then head to Patan, known as the "town with a thousand golden roofs." Located just south of Kathmandu, Patan is one of the three ancient Malla kingdoms and a center for artisans dedicated to the preservation of ancient crafts. Enjoy an introduction to Buddhist and Hindu art and beliefs at the Patan Museum. Learn about the restoration of cultural heritage sites initiated by the Kathmandu Valley Preservation Trust.
Dwarika's Hotel (B,L,D)
Day 5 — Kathmandu
This morning, head to Swayambhunath temple, a Buddhist stupa built more than 2,000 years ago and considered the mythical origin of the city. Pay a visit to the nunnery where National Geographic expert Carroll Dunham first stayed when she arrived in Kathmandu more than two decades ago. Then visit Triten Norbutse, a Bon monastery where monks can be seen debating on the rooftops in their brightly colored robes. Venture into the heart of the city: Durbar Square and Hanuman Dhoka—a beguiling complex of buildings, temples, and courtyards thronged with street merchants, wandering holy men, and pilgrims from remote villages. After lunch, tour the largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal, the Bodhnath Stupa, and the thriving Tibetan community that surrounds it. Enjoy special access to a traditional medical clinic and learn about Sowa Rigpa healing practices.
Dwarika's Hotel (B,L,D)
Day 6 — Kathmandu/Pokhara
Rise early for an optional scenic flight (weather permitting), taking in spectacular views of Mount Everest and its neighboring giants—a rare opportunity to see eight of the ten highest mountains in the world. Then take a short flight to Pokhara, the gateway to the Annapurna region, passing over the glaciers and jagged peaks of several distinct mountain ranges. Stop in at a Tibetan refugee center and visit its schools, craft workshops, and monastery. Settle into your private bungalow at our hilltop lodge, and enjoy an afternoon at leisure to take a swim in the pool, stroll through the exquisite gardens, or just admire the breathtaking views.
Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge (B,L,D)
Day 7 — Pokhara
Spend a full day exploring the Pokhara Valley, ringed by the snowy crags of the splendid Annapurna range. From Pokhara, the frame of the Annapurnas is said to be the finest mountain view in the world. Set out on a variety of walks and hikes, and visit nearby villages to get a taste of local life.
Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge (B,L,D)
Day 8 — Pokhara/Royal Chitwan National Park
Journey from the mountains into the lush jungle on the way to Royal Chitwan National Park. Check into the renowned Tiger Tops Jungle Lodge, where rooms are perched high above the forest floor and built entirely from local materials. Before dinner, visit the elephant camp to learn about the creatures that will take us on safari the following day.
Tiger Tops Jungle Lodge (B,L,D)
Days 9 & 10 — Royal Chitwan National Park
Spend two full days exploring the stunning landscapes of Royal Chitwan National Park. Awaken early each morning and set out on a wildlife safari atop an elephant's back. As you move through the tall grasses, look for leopards, the rare one-horned rhinoceros, sloth bears, monkeys, crocodiles, the elusive Royal Bengal tiger, and some of the 450 species of birds that inhabit the park. In the afternoons, take a hike in the jungle, go bird-watching, or relax at the lodge.
Tiger Tops Jungle Lodge (B,L,D Daily)
Day 11 — Meghauli/Kathmandu
Transfer to the airfield at Meghauli for our flight to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure to explore the city on your own. Gather to toast our adventure at a farewell dinner at a renowned restaurant set within a restored palace.
Dwarika's Hotel (B,L,D)
Days 12 & 13 — Kathmandu/Bangkok, Thailand or Delhi, India/U.S.
Depart Kathmandu and fly to Bangkok or Delhi to connect with your return flight, arriving home the next day.
(B)
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What To Expect
This is an active exploration of Nepal with options for walks that range from one to five miles in distance. Elevations vary from approximately 500 feet above sea level in Royal Chitwan National Park to 4,600 feet above sea level in Kathmandu. Many sightseeing excursions involve stair-climbing and uneven footing. Participants should be physically fit. This trip is not suitable for those who suffer from a cardiac, respiratory, or circulatory disorder or a disability that limits mobility.
Please note: A State Department travel warning for Nepal is currently in effect (click here to view the State Department's information page on Nepal). We have taken the warning into account in developing this program and will continue to monitor events in the country.
