Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, you'll be greeted with a warm welcome from our Ethic Himalaya representative, who will assist you with a smooth transfer to your hotel. To begin your journey on a delightful note, we've organized a special welcome dinner for you in the evening. This memorable dinner will showcase a selection of authentic Nepalese dishes, accompanied by a comforting welcome drink to immerse you in the local culture.

Transfer: 30-45 min | Accommodation: Hotel | Meal: Welcome Dinner

Today, you will have the chance to discover Kathmandu alongside our knowledgeable and experienced city tour guide. Our itinerary features some incredible 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 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 gain insights into these iconic landmarks' historical, religious, and architectural significance. Prepare to be captivated by the unique charm and spiritual ambience of Kathmandu.

Sightseeing: 7-8 Hours | Accommodation: Hotel | Meal: Breakfast

After breakfast, we set off for Pokhara, situated 200 km west of Kathmandu and renowned for its many lakes, earning it the title "The Lake City." Our journey follows the Trishuli River until it converges with the Marsyangdi, winding through terraced fields, charming hill towns, and colorful suspension bridges, with rafters adding a lively touch to the riverside scenery. Departing early to avoid city congestion, the drive climbs to the Nagdhunga Pass before descending steep switchbacks into the lush Trishuli Valley, with a midday stop at Mugling or a riverside resort in Kurintar for a traditional Dal Bhat, where you can admire views of the Manakamana Cable Car soaring toward its hilltop shrine. Continuing along the Marsyangdi River through open valleys and terraced rice fields, the road eventually rewards travelers with a spectacular reveal of the jagged Machhapuchhre and Annapurna peaks on the horizon. We are greeted by tranquil lake views and the breathtaking Himalayan backdrop when we arrive in Pokhara's Lakeside district in the late afternoon. After settling into the hotel, you can enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Fewa Lake and wander through the city’s charming streets, ending the day savoring the beauty and experiences of this tranquil mountain escape.

Transfer: 200 km, 6-7 hours | Accommodation: Hotel | Meal: Breakfast, Lunch

After an early breakfast at the hotel, we leave Pokhara to capture the golden hour over the Annapurna Massif. We take a scenic westward drive on a paved road toward Beni, with a beautiful detour through the slate-roofed village of Dhampus, which provides front-row views of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South. After a short stop in Nayapul, the starting and ending point for the Annapurna Trek, the drive continues along the roaring Modi Khola and onward to Beni, passing terraced farmlands, traditional villages, and river valleys, with the opportunity to see dramatic suspension bridges near Kushma before arriving in Beni to clear ACAP permits and stock up on supplies. From Beni, the route follows the Kali Gandaki River upstream, gradually transitioning into a rugged yet picturesque off-road adventure through the Kali Gandaki Gorge—the world's deepest—dramatically carved between the towering peaks of Dhaulagiri I (8,167 m) and Annapurna I (8,091 m). The rewarding full-day drive culminates in the lush, tropical surroundings of Tatopani, where natural riverside hot springs provide the ideal opportunity to relax, enjoy local culture, and unwind after a day spent immersed in ever-changing mountain scenery.

Transfer: 110 km, 5-6 Hours | Accommodation: Lodge | Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, an early departure from Tatopani begins a dramatic day of driving as the road climbs steeply along cliffside routes, pausing at the thundering Rupse Chhahara waterfall before entering the world's deepest gorge between the 8,000-meter giants Annapurna I and Dhaulagiri. As the subtropical landscape gives way to alpine pine forests around Ghasa and Kalopani, the journey opens into the wide, windswept Kali Gandaki riverbed, with time to explore the charming whitewashed village of Marpha, known for its apple farms and vibrant local culture, before continuing to the bustling hub of Jomsom. The route then ascends into a high-altitude, Tibetan-like landscape, passing through the traditional village of Jharkot before arriving at the sacred Muktinath Temple (3,800 m), where pilgrims can visit the revered complex of 108 water taps dedicated to Lord Vishnu and witness the natural flame of Jal Devi. You can also visit the nearby Buddhist monastery in Jharkot, which offers breathtaking views of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Tukuche Peak, before descending to Kagbeni for an overnight stay amidst the stark beauty and spiritual atmosphere of the Himalayan highlands.

Transfer: 95 km, 5-6 hours | Altitude Gain: 2,950 m | Altitude Loss: 500 m | Accommodation: Lodge | Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, you will visit the Kagbeni Monastery and Buddhist School while your guide arranges the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit. The high-altitude drive continues along the Kali Gandaki River toward Chhusang, where towering red organ-pipe cliffs and ancient sky caves dominate the skyline, before crossing a steel bridge into Chele's steep ridges. The journey continues over the Taklam La and Dajori La passes, which provide panoramic views of Nilgiri, with stops at the lush oasis of Samar and the tiny settlement of Bhena as the route winds through increasingly rugged gorges. Crossing the high plateau of Syangboche and the 3,850m Yamda La Pass, you'll arrive in the striking village of Ghami, known for Nepal's longest Mani wall and vibrant green fields against a stark desert backdrop. Along the way, you'll pass through Chele, Samar, Syangboche, Bhena, and Ghiling, immersing yourself in Upper Mustang's distinct culture and natural beauty while keeping an eye out for hydration and the powerful "Mustang Wind," which can stir up dust in these vast high-altitude landscapes.

Transfer: 32 km, 3-4 Hours | Altitude Gain: 2,230 m | Altitude Loss: 1,560 m | Accommodation: Lodge | Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After an early breakfast in Ghami, your journey begins with a drive past the region's longest Mani wall before continuing to the striking red cliffs of Dhakmar, where local legend says the earth was stained by the blood of a vanquished demoness. From there, you'll climb toward the Mui La pass, stopping at Ghar Gumba, one of the world's oldest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, built in the eighth century. Then you'll descend into the old capital of Tsarang to see its massive white fortress and gompa on the side of a canyon. The final stretch takes you across a high-altitude desert plateau to the Lo La pass, offering a breathtaking first view of the walled city of Lo-Manthang rising like an oasis from the barren landscape, where you will pass through the ancient gateway and explore some of Mustang's most important landmarks. During your journey, you can see domestic yaks and cattle caravans, take in the breathtaking mountain vistas from the passes, visit the local Buddhist school, appreciate traditional arts, see the king's palace, and participate in the vibrant local activities in Lo-Manthang.

Transfer: 24 km, 4-5 Hours | Altitude Gain: 1,250 m | Altitude Loss: 990 m | Accommodation: Lodge | Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The first day of the Tiji Festival begins with a quiet morning of private Vajrakila prayers at Chhode Monastery to empower the performers. The village of Lo-Manthang bustles as locals dressed in traditional chubas prepare the palace square, while many visitors seize the opportunity to visit the ancient Chhoser Caves. The public celebration begins in the afternoon at Tashi Gephel Palace with the sacred unfurling of a 400-year-old silk Thangka, which is believed to cleanse the valley of negative energy. The Tsowo, who has spent months in retreat, leads the monks in colorful silk brocade and "Black Hats" as they perform the Tsa Cham dance to the deep resonance of Dungchen horns and rhythmic cymbals filling the air. This meditative performance of 52 graceful steps serves to "tame" the ground and summon the deities, formally setting the spiritual stage for the upcoming ritual battle. Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy lively dances and festivities, such as horse racing and a giant tug-of-war. At the same time, the vibrant atmosphere is enriched by Tibetan women's colorful traditional clothing and jewelry, monks' robes, and dancers' intricate costumes, making the Tiji Festival an unforgettable and truly immersive cultural experience. 

Accommodation: Lodge | Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The second day of the Tiji Festival begins with a morning of cultural immersion, allowing visitors to explore Lo-Manthang’s walled city and its ancient Thubchen and Jampa monasteries to admire meticulously preserved 15th-century murals or observe the royal family preparing for the day’s ceremonies at the palace. Families from all over Mustang come together in the tiny lanes to share butter tea, bringing the village to life and weaving a colorful social tapestry before the afternoon's public rituals change the mood. Known as the Nga Cham, the second day’s dances are far more aggressive and energetic, featuring monks in animal-headed masks representing protector deities tasked with cornering the demon. The presence of female Dakinis and the growing crowd indicate that the forces of Dharma are winning the legendary battle, while the dancers use ritual swords, bows, and arrows to symbolically destroy ego and ignorance, as the King of Mustang watches from his balcony. Visitors can witness this lively ceremony by Tibetan lamas, which aims to ward off malevolent spirits and involves a large turnout of locals participating in the purification and renewal rituals. A day that combines spiritual ritual, cultural richness, and immersive local life can be completed by exploring the city's quaint courtyards and alleyways after the ceremony or by renting a horse to tour neighboring villages.

Accommodation: Lodge | Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The final day of the Tiji Festival begins with a sense of high-stakes preparation as the lead dancer, or Tsowo, performs secret inner meditations at Chhode Monastery to harness the power required to destroy the demon's influence, while the palace square fills with villagers seeking blessings on this spiritually charged morning. The ritual culminates in the afternoon when a dancer representing Dorje Jono symbolically slays a tsampa effigy of the demon Ma Tam Ru Ta, causing a massive, raucous procession of monks, villagers, and the King of Mustang out of the city gates. The demon's remains are cast into the desert to expel drought and misfortune from the kingdom, and the grand exorcism concludes with a celebratory return to Lo-Manthang, where the air lightens with collective relief as the sacred Thangka is rolled up, marking the triumph of Dharma and the restoration of peace for the coming year. Following the festival, visitors can take a walk up to Namgyal Gompa, a monastery perched on a hilltop that also serves as a local court, before exploring Tingkhar, the last village northwest of Lo-Manthang, and returning to the city in the evening to continue enjoying the festival's final festivities.

Accommodation: Lodge | Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast in Lo-Manthang, the drive begins with a climb over the Lo La pass for a final panoramic view of the "Plain of Aspiration" before descending into the medieval charm of Tsarang, which features a massive white fortress and a canyon-side monastery. The journey becomes more technical as you cross the Syangboche La and arrive at the green oasis of Samar, before plunging into deep gorges and navigating steep switchbacks to the ancient gateway of Kagbeni. After checking out of the restricted area at the police station and exploring Kagbeni's mud-brick labyrinth, the day concludes with a notoriously windy and bumpy drive across the expansive Kali Gandaki riverbed, arriving in Jomsom late afternoon. Along the way, passing through local villages offers knowledge about the region's traditional lifestyles, while Buddhist stupas and monasteries add a spiritual and architectural dimension to the journey. When you arrive in Jomsom, you can explore the vibrant local market, participate in daily village life, and discover unique cultural treasures, making this scenic drive an enriching experience that seamlessly blends breathtaking landscapes with a deep appreciation for the region's heritage.

Transfer: 50 km, 7-8 hours | Altitude Gain: 2,320 m | Altitude Loss: 3,400 m | Accommodation: Lodge | Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Your day starts with a 20-minute flight from Jomsom to Pokhara in the early morning. The Twin Otter plane makes its way through the narrow space between the tall Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs before landing in the warmer, greener valley. As soon as you land at the airport, you'll be taken to the Lakeside district. After a well-earned hot shower at your hotel, you have the whole day to rest and recover from the rough conditions in Upper Mustang. You can take a walk along the shores of Phewa Lake, look around the lively bookstores and coffee shops in the area, or row a brightly colored boat out to the Tal Barahi Temple on its quiet island. Many travelers also get a professional trekker's massage to relax before ending the day with dinner by the lake and watching the sun go down while they watch the famous reflection of Machhapuchhre dance on the water. During the day, the beautiful mountain views and lush surroundings provide a peaceful backdrop. You can also visit nearby natural attractions like Mahendra Cave, David's Fall, and the area's charming lakes, which will help you relax and recharge after your Upper Mustang adventure. 

Flight duration: 20 min    |  Accommodation: Hotel l Meal: Breakfast, Lunch

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.  

Distance: 200 km l Transfer Duration: 6-7 Hrs l Accommodation: Hotel l Meal: Breakfast, Lunch

Today, we have some free time to explore Kathmandu at our own pace. You might want to spend the day shopping for souvenirs, wandering through the vibrant streets and bazaars, or trying out the local cuisine. There are also popular tourist spots to visit, like Bhaktapur and Patan, which showcase Nepal's rich cultural and historical heritage. If you're feeling adventurous, you could go hiking, biking, or try some adventure sports, or simply unwind at one of the city's many spas and wellness centers. Whatever you choose, be sure to soak in the unique sights, sounds, and flavors of this amazing city.

Accommodation: Hotel l Meal: Breakfast

Today, we will make our way to Kathmandu International Airport for our departure. After enjoying a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we will gather our belongings and head to the airport. We’ll arrive on time to take care of all the necessary formalities before boarding our flight. Before we say goodbye to this beautiful country, take a moment to soak in the stunning views of the Himalayas and appreciate the warm hospitality and kindness of the Nepalese people. This wraps up our tour, and we hope you had a memorable and enjoyable experience in Nepal.

Transfer 25-30 min | Meal: Breakfast