When you arrive at the airport, our company representative will greet you warmly and ensure a smooth transfer to the hotel. At the hotel, you will have the opportunity to meet our team. We will organize a pre-trek briefing in the evening, between 6:00 and 7:00 p.m. This gathering is an excellent opportunity to become acquainted with the other members of your group before we all proceed to enjoy a delicious dinner. The welcome dinner will feature authentic Nepalese cuisine and captivating cultural dance performances, immersing you in Nepal's rich cultural traditions.

Today, you will have the opportunity to explore Kathmandu with our knowledgeable city tour guide. Our itinerary includes several notable sites:

• SWOYAMBHUNATH, also known as the Monkey Temple, is perched atop a hill and can be reached by climbing a long set of steps. From there, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Kathmandu.
• BOUDHANATH STUPA is adorned with traditional Gompas adorned with vibrant prayer flags. It serves as a focal point for Sherpas and Tibetans who partake in the spiritual practice of circumambulating the stupa (koras).
• PASHUPATINATH, a sacred Hindu temple, is situated on the banks of the Bagmati River and features ghats where cremation ceremonies take place, offering a unique glimpse into Hindu rituals.
• KATHMANDU DURBAR SQUARE, one of the ancient capitals of the Kathmandu Valley, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This vibrant square showcases a harmonious fusion of Hindu and Buddhist temples, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region.

With our knowledgeable guide, you will learn about the historical, religious, and architectural significance of these iconic landmarks. Prepare to be captivated by Kathmandu's unique charm and spiritual ambiance.

After an early breakfast in Kathmandu, your journey begins with a scenic drive along the winding Prithvi Highway toward Pokhara, following the roaring Trishuli River and passing terraced hillsides, charming villages, small market towns, and lush subtropical forests. Many trekkers stop near Mugling for a traditional lunch, and on a clear day, you may catch your first glimpses of the Ganesh Himal and Manaslu ranges. As you approach Pokhara, the breathtaking Annapurna Mountain range comes into view, and from there, it’s about an hour and a half drive to the village of Kande (1,740 m), the official starting point for treks such as the Mardi Himal and Annapurna Rhododendron Trek. From Kande, the trail begins with a gentle ascent through terraced fields and small houses, then leads into vibrant rhododendron forests. After a short but steady climb of 1.5 to 2 hours along stone staircases and forest paths, you. arrive at Australian Base Camp (2,165 m). The wide grassy plateau offers spectacular views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and the iconic Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) peak. In the evening, the snow-capped mountains glow golden and pink as the sun sets, and you spend the night in a cozy mountain teahouse, enjoying a warm meal and the crisp high-altitude air, making it a perfect start to your Annapurna Rhododendron Trek adventure.

An early morning wake-up at Australian Camp rewards trekkers with panoramic views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Annapurna South. After breakfast, the trail heads north, descending gently through the village before entering a lush forest. About 45 minutes in, you reach Pothana (1,890 m), where permits (ACAP and TIMS) are checked. From here, the trail climbs steadily through moss-covered oak and rhododendron forests to Pitam Deurali (2,100 m), a ridge-top lunch spot with stunning views. Leaving the main Annapurna Sanctuary trail, the route veers toward the Mardi Himal ridge along a quiet, off-the-beaten-path trail. The journey continues through dense oak, maple, hemlock, and rhododendron forests, winding along narrow trails with tree roots and stone steps, with chances to spot colorful pheasants (Danphe) and monkeys. After about four hours of trekking through this serene jungle, the trail emerges into a clearing at Forest Camp (Kokar), where trekkers spend the night. While Forest Camp doesn’t offer the wide Himalayan vistas seen from Australian Camp, the crisp forest air, peaceful atmosphere, and magical woodland surroundings make it the perfect base for the climb to Low Camp the next day, offering breathtaking views and the tranquil beauty of nature throughout the journey.

After breakfast at Forest Camp, the day starts with a morning climb through dense rhododendron and oak forests, which turn bright red and pink in March and April. The trail feels like a jungle, covered with moss and lichen, with natural steps made of tree roots and stones, so hikers should be careful on slippery spots. As we go higher, the forest thins, giving glimpses of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) framed between the trees—great for photos. Walking through these rich forests, full of Nepal’s wildlife and plants, we reach Low Camp, a small group of teahouses on a narrow ridge. More open than Forest Camp, Low Camp gives amazing, clear views of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South, letting trekkers enjoy the scenery and local life. We spend the night here, resting and getting ready for the next stage of the Mardi Himal trek, while taking in the peaceful forest and Himalayan beauty.

After breakfast at Low Camp, the trek begins with the final forest stretch, climbing steadily through the last rhododendron and oak trees, which turn bright red and pink in March and April. The trail is well-marked but can be muddy or icy depending on the season. About halfway, the forest ends as we reach Badal Danda (3,300 m), or Cloud Hill, a stunning ridge-top spot where, on a clear day, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre rise dramatically above valleys often filled with clouds. From here, the trail follows the crest of the Mardi Himal ridge, with the tree line disappearing and the path moving through hardy shrubs and scattered rhododendrons. The narrow trail includes stone steps and grassy slopes, and as we cross the 3,500 m mark, it’s important to keep a slow, steady pace (Bistari, bistari, as the locals say). Along the way, we may spot Nepal’s national bird, the Danphe (Himalayan pheasant). The day ends at High Camp (3,580 m), a small cluster of basic lodges perched on the ridge spine. It is colder and windier than Low Camp, with shared bathrooms and a communal dining area heated by a wood or yak-dung stove. From the teahouse porch, we can admire breathtaking, unobstructed views of the Annapurna range and Machhapuchhre, especially at sunset, before resting for the night in preparation for the next stage of the trek.

The day starts very early, around 4:00 AM, for the sunrise climb from High Camp (3,580 m) to the Upper Viewpoint (4,200 m). The trail is steep and narrow along the ridge, with uneven and sometimes icy ground, so a headlamp is needed. The climb is worth it for the amazing views: Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) stands right in front, while the south face of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli shine in the early morning light. If the weather is clear and you have energy, you can continue another 1–1.5 hours to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m), where the trail is rocky and alpine, the air is thin, and you are high above the forests in a huge mountain amphitheater. After enjoying the views and taking photos, the long descent begins. It takes about two hours to return to High Camp for a rest, a meal, and to pack bags. Then, the trek continues down the ridge, passing Badal Danda (Cloud Hill), through the rhododendron forest, and finally back to the cozy lodges of Low Camp (2,970 m), ending a challenging but unforgettable day.

After breakfast at Low Camp, the day starts with a beautiful forest descent through dense rhododendron and oak trees, following stone stairs and dirt paths of the “Cloud Forest.” In about 1.5–2 hours, you reach Forest Camp (Kokar), a quiet spot to rest and enjoy some refreshments. From there, the trail turns right toward Landruk, becoming steeper and narrower as it drops into the Modi Khola valley. This 4–5-hour journey is mostly downhill with a few gentle climbs, passing through changing scenery—from alpine meadows to green forests, ferns, bamboo, and terraced fields—while the sound of the river grows louder as you go lower. Along the way, you’ll get amazing views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Annapurna South, making the trek both beautiful and moderately challenging. At the end, you arrive in Landruk (1,565 m), a charming Gurung village with stone houses, terraced fields, and welcoming tea houses offering comfortable lodges, hot showers, and warm meals. This descent is a wonderful mix of nature, quiet trails, and local culture, making it a memorable part of the Annapurna region trek.

After breakfast in Landruk, the trek begins with a steep descent along stone-paved switchbacks and stairs through terraced fields and small houses down to the valley floor. At the bottom, you cross the Modi Khola on a long suspension bridge, a river that comes directly from the Annapurna Base Camp glaciers. After crossing, the trail climbs steeply on stone stairs to Ghandruk, one of Nepal’s most beautiful Gurung villages. You pass through the lower village before reaching the upper section, where most trekkers stop for lunch, enjoying stunning views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre and visiting the local Gurung museum. From Ghandruk, the trail continues through ancient rhododendron forests, gradually climbing past streams, mossy waterfalls, and Bhesi Kharka, a small clearing with a few tea shops perfect for a short break. The day ends at Tadapani, a small settlement on a high ridge made mostly of teahouses. Tadapani, meaning Far Water, is famous for its spectacular lodge-front views of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South, often considered some of the best in the Annapurna region. The trek from Landruk to Tadapani takes about 6–8 hours, ascending through lush rhododendron forests and terraced fields, with the sound of streams adding to the peaceful atmosphere. With fewer trekkers on this route, it offers tranquility, breathtaking mountain scenery, and comfortable teahouses where you can rest, enjoy local hospitality, and savor warm meals before continuing your Himalayan adventure.

After breakfast in Tadapani, the day begins with a steady climb through a dense, fairytale-like forest of old-growth rhododendron and oak trees. The moss-covered trail feels remote, especially in spring (March/April) when the forests burst into red and pink blooms, and wildlife is abundant, with chances to spot the Danphe (Himalayan Monal, Nepal’s national bird) or langur monkeys. About halfway, you reach small clearings such as Meshar Danda and Isharu (3,100 m), ideal for a tea break with clear views of Pokhara Valley and Phewa Lake. Leaving the main trail, the path ascends through less-defined forest areas to a grassy clearing perfect for lunch, offering opportunities to admire the majestic mountains, lush vegetation, and diverse fauna. The vegetation gradually thins into high-altitude shrubs and alpine meadows as you continue along the ridge to Dobato, a small cluster of simple tea houses nestled in a high pasture. Climbing the hill behind the campsite provides breathtaking Himalayan views, and the secluded, tree-lined gully of the campsite adds a sense of tranquility and isolation. Wildlife such as Himalayan thar, hyrax, and langur monkeys can often be seen along the way, making this section of the trek a peaceful and unforgettable experience with stunning vistas of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli dominating the landscape.

The day starts very early, around 4:30–5:00 AM, with a steep 30–45 minute climb from Dobato to Mulde Peak (3,637 m). The summit is one of the best viewpoints in the Annapurna region, offering amazing 360-degree views of over 25 peaks, including the Dhaulagiri range, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, and even Phewa Lake in Pokhara far below. After watching the sunrise, you descend back to Dobato for a hot breakfast and to pack your bags. The trek then continues with a long, steady descent through open alpine meadows with grazing sheep and yaks before entering a dense forest of rhododendron and silver birch, reaching Bayeli Kharka (3,450 m) in about 1–1.5 hours—a good place for a short tea break. From Bayeli, the trail drops sharply into a deep, wild valley with untouched forest, where you might see Danphe (Himalayan Monal) or Himalayan Tahr. The path can be slippery with moss and damp leaves and leads to a small stream before climbing up again. The day ends at Chistibung (2,975 m), where most trekkers stay at Upper Chistibung—a few quiet, community-run lodges in a high clearing used by local buffalo herders. This peaceful, remote spot is a perfect base for the big climb to Khopra Danda the next morning.

After breakfast in Chistibung, the day starts with a steep climb right from the lodges along a narrow, well-marked trail. It’s a tough uphill walk, so it’s best to keep a slow, steady mountain pace. About an hour in, the rhododendron and oak forests thin out, giving way to hardy shrubs and open alpine meadows. Here, you’ll see the massive south face of Dhaulagiri (8,167 m) across the Kali Gandaki valley, and you might spot wildlife like the Himalayan Tahr or the colorful Danphe (Himalayan Monal). The final stretch follows grassy switchbacks up to the ridge, where prayer flags mark the crest, and the view opens up: you are eye-level with Annapurna South and Hiunchuli, with the deep Kali Gandaki Gorge below. At Khopra Danda (3,660 m), there is a single large community-run lodge perched on the ridge like a balcony over the Himalayas. The lodge is cozy and social, supports local schools and clinics, and offers incredible sunset views of Dhaulagiri and sunrise views of the Annapurna range—so beautiful you don’t even need to leave your room.

The day starts very early, around 6:00 AM, leaving Khopra Ridge to reach Khayer Lake while the skies are clear, as the weather can change quickly by afternoon. The trek follows a high, rocky ridgeline for 4–5 hours, with no forest—just alpine shrubs, stones, and wide-open views. The narrow trail can be slippery if there is leftover snow, and along the way, you may spot Himalayan Tahr (mountain goats) or Griffon vultures soaring above. You’ll cross several small ridges, each seeming like the summit before the lake appears, so patience is needed. Khayer Lake is a sacred glacial lake for both Hindus and Buddhists, with a small temple dedicated to Khayer Barahi, and local pilgrims visit during the Janai Purnima festival for blessings. The lake sits at the base of the Annapurna Massif, with the vertical rock wall of Annapurna South rising above, creating a peaceful and powerful atmosphere. For those who prefer a shorter trek, it is possible to walk from Khopra in about half a day. We will bring a packed lunch for the day. The return trek to Khopra Ridge takes 3–4 hours; although mostly downhill, the first hour can feel tiring due to the high altitude. We will spend the night back at Khopra Ridge, enjoying a warm dinner and, if the weather allows, a beautiful sunset view of Dhaulagiri.

After your last breakfast at the Khopra Community Lodge, the day begins with a steep drop from the ridge edge, giving one final view of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna South on a clear morning. The trail descends along a grassy spur with rocky switchbacks and open pastures, where you may see yaks or sheep grazing. After about two hours, you reach the fork where you had turned toward the ridge earlier in the trek, but this time you follow signs toward Swanta. Dropping below 3,200 m, the wind eases as you re-enter the shaded rhododendron and oak forest, a peaceful and quiet section compared to the main Ghorepani trail, with a large waterfall visible across the valley. The forest eventually opens to the stone terraces of Swanta Village (2,270 m), a traditional Magar settlement with children playing in stone alleys, locals tending buffalo, and a warmer climate than the ridge. The village lodges are welcoming, offering warm hospitality and organic meals from village gardens, making it a perfect place to rest after the descent.

After breakfast in Swanta, the trek begins with a descent through terraced fields and thin forests down to the Swanta Khola, which you cross via a suspension bridge. From there, the trail climbs steeply through forest and farmland to Chitre (2,400 m), a great spot for a tea break or early lunch, where it joins the main trail from Tatopani. The path then continues along stone stairs and forested trails, entering dense rhododendron forests that are especially beautiful in March when the trees bloom with bright reds and pinks. The climb eventually brings you to the blue-roofed houses of Upper Ghorepani (2,860 m). Along the way, trekkers enjoy stunning views of surrounding mountains and valleys while passing through picturesque villages, and there are chances to experience the local culture and meet welcoming communities. In March, daytime temperatures are usually 10–18°C, and while the trail is mostly dry and well-maintained, shaded forest sections may be damp or muddy from melting frost. Ghorepani is a busy trekking hub, with a lively bazaar and vibrant atmosphere, marking a memorable end to this scenic and culturally rich journey.

The day begins with an early pre-dawn trek from Ghorepani to the summit of Poon Hill (3,210 m), a steep 45–60-minute climb along a well-paved stone staircase that rewards you with breathtaking sunrise views of Dhaulagiri I (8,167 m), Annapurna I (8,091 m), and the Nilgiri range, framed by lush, forested foothills. After returning to Ghorepani for a quick breakfast, the trek continues for 3–5 hours along a quieter, less-traveled ridgeline to Mohare Danda (3,313 m), passing through ancient rhododendron and oak forests and traditional Gurung villages, where the warm hospitality of the local community adds to the journey. Mohare Danda, part of a community lodge network, offers a more authentic, eco-friendly experience than the busier Ghorepani, with uninterrupted panoramic mountain views, vibrant landscapes alive with birdsong, and a peaceful atmosphere that makes it an ideal spot to relax and fully appreciate the beauty of the Himalayas, with sunsets often rivaling the sunrise at Poon Hill.

The morning at Mohare Danda begins with a sunrise that rivals Poon Hill, offering an intimate view of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Annapurna South. After a hearty breakfast at the community lodge—often local Gurung bread or porridge—you set off on a 4–6-hour trek southward, descending from the exposed ridge into dense forests of giant rhododendrons. In March, the forest bursts with red Lali Gurans, forming a tunnel-like Garden of Eden, while soft forest floors and stone steps guide you along the well-marked Eco-Community Trek route, where Himalayan Monals, deer, and other wildlife may appear along the way. The trail winds through terraced fields and small villages, offering glimpses of Gurung and Magar culture and warm local hospitality. As you approach Nangi Village, the landscape opens to panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, culminating in a charming ecotourism hub celebrated for Magsaysay Award winner Mahabir Pun’s initiatives. Here, you can explore the paper-making workshop, community-run school, and wireless internet project, then relax in a lodge or homestay with mostly organic, locally sourced meals, soaking in the serene Himalayan atmosphere.

After breakfast at the Nangi Community Lodge, you set out on a 4–6-hour trek through pine and rhododendron forests, where March brings the lower-elevation Lali Gurans into vivid red bloom, painting the hillsides beautifully. The trail begins with a gentle descent through terraced fields and lush forests, offering views of traditional wooden houses and local farmers at work, before reaching Danda Kateri about 2.5 to 3 hours in—a serene halfway point with panoramic vistas of the Dhaulagiri massif and Annapurna South, perfect for a lunch or tea break. From there, the path descends more steeply through terraced farmland and mixed forests, transitioning from high-altitude alpine air to a warmer subtropical climate, while passing Magar settlements and honey-hunting cliffs. Approaching Banskharka, the trail enters the village’s renowned orange and tangerine orchards, with late-season fruit or lush greenery in March, culminating at a community homestay where your stay supports the local school and health clinic, and evening meals in the communal dining hall offer an immersive cultural experience in Magar traditions amidst the tranquil Himalayan landscape.

After breakfast at Banskharka, the trek to Galeshwor is a pleasant 2–3-hour descent that offers a gentle cool-down after your mountain journey, winding through terraced fields and lush forests while passing small Magar settlements and providing glimpses into rural Himalayan life. The sound of the river grows louder as you approach the gorge, culminating in a crossing of the long suspension bridge over the Kali Gandaki Gorge, one of the deepest in the world, before arriving in Galeshwor, where you can visit the Galeshwor Mahadev Temple, a significant pilgrimage site built on a single massive rock. The trail offers stunning views of surrounding hills and valleys, accompanied by the gentle sounds of nature, and upon reaching Galeshwor, the serene riverside atmosphere provides a perfect spot to rest and soak in the scenery. From there, the journey continues by road back to Pokhara, covering approximately 90 km in 3.5–4 hours, passing through Beni, following the banks of the Kali Gandaki and Modi Khola rivers, and passing through Kushma—famous for its high suspension bridges and bungee jumping—before joining the Baglung Highway into Pokhara, concluding your trek with time to relax and reflect on the memorable Himalayan experience.

After breakfast, we say goodbye to the charming lake city of Pokhara and set off on a picturesque drive to Kathmandu along the scenic Prithvi Highway, which winds alongside the Marsyangdi and Trishuli Rivers through terraced hills and riverside villages. Departing early at 7:00 AM to beat the valley traffic, the first few hours offer views of rolling green hills and the famous junction at Mugling, where the route continues alongside the turquoise waters of the Trishuli, known for its white-water rafting and suspension bridges. A midday stop at Malekhu provides a chance to enjoy fresh river fish before the road begins its steady climb, offering final glimpses of the Ganesh Himal and Langtang ranges on clear days. The drive reaches its climax at the Nagdhunga Pass, where the countryside gives way to a sweeping view of the Kathmandu Valley, followed by a final drive through the city’s vibrant streets to reach your hotel in the heart of the capital. Upon arrival, the remainder of the day is free to relax, recharge, or explore the lively markets for souvenirs, making the trip a perfect transition from scenic landscapes to the bustling energy of Kathmandu.  

Today we have free time to explore Kathmandu on our own. You could spend the day shopping for souvenirs, exploring the colorful streets and bazaars, or sampling the local cuisine. You could also go to some of the city's popular tourist attractions, such as Bhaktapur and Patan, which highlight Nepal's rich cultural and historical heritage. You could also participate in other activities such as hiking, biking, or adventure sports, or simply relax and rejuvenate at one of the city's many spas and wellness centers. Whatever you decide, make sure to take in the unique sights, sounds, and flavors of this wonderful city.

Today, we will transfer to Kathmandu International Airport to depart. After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we will collect our belongings and head to the airport. We will arrive at the airport on time to complete all of the necessary formalities and board our flight. Before we leave this enchanting country, take one last look at the breathtaking Himalayan views and appreciate the Nepalese people's warm hospitality and kindness. This concludes our tour, and we hope you had a memorable and enjoyable experience in Nepal.