Family Trekking in the Annapurnas | Wellness Adventure Tour

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, a representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. Your trek leader will provide a briefing on the next day’s program, including important information about the trek. Following the briefing, you will join an orientation walk around Thamel, a lively neighbourhood in Kathmandu. This walk will help you familiarise yourself with the area and allow you to explore local culture and prepare for the trek.

During your time in Kathmandu, you can take a walking tour of several notable attractions. The tour will commence with a visit to Ason. In this old bazaar, you can experience the traditional market atmosphere and witness local vendors selling various goods, including spices, textiles, and handicrafts.

Next, you will proceed to Patan Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This historic square is renowned for its architectural splendour, ancient temples, and intricately carved wooden structures. Exploring Patan Durbar Square will give you a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural and religious heritage.

The tour will culminate with a visit to the magnificent Boudhanath Stupa. This iconic and revered Buddhist monument is one of the largest spherical stupas in the world. It is a place of pilgrimage and a centre for Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. Here, you can partake in a serene and contemplative atmosphere while observing devotees engaging in prayer and rituals.

Additionally, this day presents an opportunity for any last-minute purchases of gear or equipment you may require for the trek. Thamel, a popular area in Kathmandu, offers numerous shops and stores that cater to the needs of trekkers. Your trek leader can guide and assist in selecting the necessary items to ensure you are well-equipped for the journey ahead.

Furthermore, your trek leader will take this opportunity to brief you on the program for the following day. They will provide essential details regarding the trek, such as the starting point, duration, difficulty level, and any specific instructions or considerations. This briefing will help ensure that you are adequately prepared and clearly understand the trek ahead.

In summary, your day in Kathmandu will include a walking tour of Ason, Patan Durbar Square, and Boudhanath Stupa, immersing yourself in the city’s rich cultural and historical offerings. You will also have the chance to make any last-minute gear purchases, and your trek leader will provide a comprehensive briefing on the next day’s program, ensuring a smooth transition into the trekking adventure.

On this day of your trek, you will fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara and then commence your tour to Banthanti. Here is a breakdown of the itinerary:

After a nutritious breakfast, you will head to the domestic terminal for a flight to Pokhara. The flight is approximately 30 minutes, offering aerial views of the stunning Himalayan landscape.

Upon arrival in Pokhara, you will embark on a two-hour scenic drive to the starting point of your trek. This drive will take you through picturesque valleys, charming villages, and lush green forests, providing a glimpse of rural Nepal.

Once you reach the starting point, you will begin your trek with a steep ascent to the village of Ulleri. This initial uphill climb will last for approximately two hours. Ulleri is a quaint village known for its traditional houses, terraced fields, and warm hospitality.

After reaching Ulleri, you will take a break for lunch, allowing you to refuel and rest before continuing your ascent. From Ulleri, you will continue climbing, albeit on a less steep gradient, towards your overnight stop at Banthanti.

Banthanti is situated at an altitude of 2300 meters and boasts panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and verdant landscapes. It is a lesser-known village on the trekking route, offering a more secluded and tranquil atmosphere.

In Banthanti, you will be accommodated in a lodge operated by a friendly and welcoming local family. These lodges provide comfortable facilities for trekkers, ensuring a pleasant stay amidst the region’s natural beauty.

It is worth mentioning that Banthanti is not a common stop for most trekkers, making it a unique and less crowded destination. This provides an opportunity to soak in the peaceful ambience and savour the area’s unspoiled beauty.

Overall, on this day, you will fly to Pokhara, drive to the starting point, and undertake a three-hour trek to Banthanti. This leg of the journey will include a steep ascent to Ulleri, a lunch break, and a continuation of the climb to Banthanti, where you will spend the night in a lodge run by a local family. The trek offers picturesque views and a chance to experience the lesser-known charm of Banthanti at an elevation of 2300 meters.

After breakfast, you will commence your hike from Banthanti to Ghorepani. This trek section will take you through dense forests of Oak and Rhododendron, accompanied by the soothing sounds of cascading streams. Here is what you can expect during this leg of your journey:

The trail will lead you through thick forests, providing a serene and picturesque environment. The Oak and Rhododendron trees will surround you, creating a natural canopy that adds to the beauty of the trek.

As you make your way up to Ghorepani, you will encounter varying gradients, making the trek more exciting and diverse in terms of terrain. Some sections may involve steeper climbs, while others offer more gentle slopes.

Upon reaching Ghorepani, you will be rewarded with a delightful settlement at the top of a ridge. The village offers stunning panoramic views, showcasing the majestic Himalayan peaks in the distance.

If the weather is clear, you can hike up to Poonhill for a mesmerising sunset experience. Poonhill is a popular vantage point that offers unobstructed views of Mount Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Barahi Shikhar, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machapuchare, and many other peaks to the east.

Opting for a sunset hike to Poonhill instead of the usual sunrise visit will allow you to avoid the crowds. This allows you to enjoy the breathtaking panoramic vistas in a more peaceful and serene atmosphere.

The clear weather and panoramic views offered by Poonhill make this hike a highlight of the Ghorepani trek. Witnessing the sun setting behind the majestic peaks, casting a golden hue over the entire landscape, is an unforgettable experience.

In summary, the hike from Banthanti to Ghorepani will take you through enchanting forests, offering a variety of gradients. Ghorepani is a charming village at the top of a ridge, providing a wonderful setting to appreciate the panorama. If weather permits, the sunset hike to Poonhill will allow you to witness the magnificent Himalayan peaks in all their glory, away from the usual crowds.

We have an early-morning excursion planned for the next day of our trek. The objective is to reach Poon Hill (3210m) in time for a fantastic sunrise and to witness the breathtaking panorama of the high Himalayan peaks. The trek from our current location to Poon Hill will take approximately 45 minutes, covering a distance of 400 meters uphill.

Once we reach Poon Hill, we will be treated to mesmerising views of the surrounding mountains as the first light of the day bathes them in golden hues. This picturesque setting provides an exquisite backdrop for capturing stunning sunrise photographs and immersing ourselves in the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayas.

After soaking in the awe-inspiring sunrise and the panoramic vistas, we will return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast. This will allow us to refuel and gather our energy for the next phase of our trek.

Following breakfast, we will begin our journey towards Tadapani (2540m). While trekking towards Tadapani, you have the option to discuss with our trek leader the possibility of skipping the excursion to Poon Hill to avoid the expected crowds during sunrise. Instead, you can trek toward Tadapani and seek a high point along the trail to enjoy the light in solitude. This alternative will give us a peaceful and uninterrupted experience and shorten our overall trekking distance for the day.

We can assess the prevailing conditions and decide by discussing this alternative option with our trek leader. This flexibility allows us to maximise our enjoyment of the trek and tailor the schedule to our preferences, ensuring a memorable and rewarding experience.

In summary, our plan entails embarking on an early-morning excursion to Poon Hill for a breathtaking sunrise and panoramic views of the high Himalayan peaks. Afterwards, we will return to the lodge for breakfast before commencing our trek towards Tadapani. We can explore the possibility of witnessing the sunrise in solitude from a high point along the trail, avoiding the crowds and optimising our trekking itinerary accordingly.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast with the stunning panorama of the Annapurna range at Tadapani, we will commence the next leg of our trek. We will walk through a picturesque Rhododendron and Oak forest along a well-defined, wide trail. This section of the trail offers a serene and enchanting ambience as we immerse ourselves in nature’s beauty.

As we continue, we will pass through several settlements and encounter several lodges along the route. This provides an opportunity to experience the local culture and hospitality of the inhabitants. These settlements and lodges serve as welcome rest stops where we can replenish our energy and interact with fellow trekkers and locals.

Towards the end of our hike, we will emerge from the dense forest into an opening that unveils magnificent views of Annapurna South and Mount Hiunchuli. This panoramic vista is a rewarding sight, showcasing the grandeur of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.

To conclude our trekking day, we will descend using a series of stairs that lead us to the final stretch of our journey to Ghandruk. Ghandruk is renowned as the largest village along the trekking route. It is an incredibly charming village, showcasing traditional architecture with a harmonious blend of new lodges and hotels catering to trekkers. This combination of modern comfort and traditional aesthetics provides a delightful and comfortable stay for trekkers, allowing us to relax and soak in the unique ambience of this culturally rich village.

Our morning will commence with a delightful breakfast, accompanied by the awe-inspiring presence of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli towering above us. Following this energising start, we will embark on a downhill trek towards the captivating Ghandruk Village.

The initial phase of our descent will lead us through a gentle path for approximately 40 minutes, gradually revealing the picturesque landscape surrounding us. As we travel along our route, we will encounter mule caravans transporting goods to Ghandruk, a lively and bustling village. This intriguing sight offers a glimpse into the area’s local trade and economic activities.

After crossing the outskirts of the village, we will follow a broad trail, gently descending for about an hour. This trek section provides an opportunity to soak in the natural beauty and tranquillity of the surroundings while steadily progressing toward our destination. We will be treated to impressive vistas and a serene ambience as we progress towards the next phase of our journey.

Descending from the village of Kyumi, the trail becomes notably steeper, adding an element of adventure and thrill to our trekking experience. As we manoeuvre through this challenging stretch, we must exercise caution and take our time to ensure a safe and comfortable descent.

Depending on our progress by midday, we will stop for lunch to fuel our bodies and rejuvenate ourselves for the rest of the day’s journey.

Following the lunch break, we will continue our trek on a fairweather road for approximately 30 minutes before veering onto a trail that leads to Syauli Bazaar, our destination for the night. In the past, Syauli Bazaar served as a vital stop for trekkers before road construction. While it may be a quieter and less frequented area now, it offers a serene and secluded atmosphere, allowing us to enjoy a peaceful and tranquil evening. This small settlement is home to a few lodges that will provide us with comfortable accommodations.

After settling into our lodgings in the afternoon, we can explore the nearby Modi River. The river offers a serene environment where we can immerse ourselves in the soothing sounds of flowing water and enjoy moments of reflection and relaxation.

On our final trek day, we have a pleasant and relatively easy downhill walk along a fairweather road. The route will lead us parallel to the scenic Modi River, guiding us through small hamlets as we make our way to Nayapul.

As we hike, we can enjoy the serenity of the natural surroundings and soak in the last moments of the trekking experience. The picturesque views and tranquil atmosphere will accompany us during this leisurely walk. It’s a perfect opportunity to reflect on the journey and appreciate the beauty of the landscape.

Upon reaching Nayapul, a waiting vehicle will transport us back to Pokhara. We will bid farewell to our support team at either Nayapul or Pokhara, expressing our gratitude for their assistance throughout the trek.

Once we arrive in Pokhara, we will check into our hotel. You can rest and relax in the comfort of the hotel or take a leisurely walk around Lakeside. Lakeside is a vibrant area with various shops, cafes, and restaurants, offering an excellent opportunity to explore, unwind, and immerse ourselves in the local culture and atmosphere.

In conclusion, our final day involves an easy downhill walk along a fairweather road, passing small hamlets and the beautiful Modi River. Upon reaching Nayapul, we will be driven back to Pokhara, where we will check into our hotel. Afterwards, you can rest or stroll around the lively Lakeside area, enjoying its various shops and cafes.

In the morning, an exciting option for you is to embark on a tandem paragliding session. We will arrange for you to fly with a reputable company owned by the National Geographic Adventurers of 2012. The experienced team behind this company includes individuals who have climbed Everest and had the extraordinary adventure of paragliding from the summit and kayaking to the Bay of Bengal. This ensures a thrilling and memorable paragliding experience, accompanied by expert guidance and safety measures.

Following the exhilarating paragliding session, you can spend the afternoon on a sightseeing tour of various attractions in Pokhara. One notable place to visit is Devi’s Fall, a mesmerising waterfall that holds historical and cultural significance. You can witness nature’s splendid beauty and power as water cascades over the rocks, creating a captivating spectacle.

Next, you can explore the Tibetan refugee camp to learn about the rich Tibetan culture and heritage. This visit provides an opportunity to engage with the Tibetan community, understand their way of life, and appreciate their resilience and contributions to the region.

In addition, you can include a visit to the mountain museum, which offers insights into the history, geology, and mountaineering achievements of the Annapurna region. The museum provides information on the mountains, climbers, and expeditions that have shaped the area’s mountaineering legacy.

Alternatively, if you prefer a laid-back afternoon, you can relax, unwind, and enjoy your hotel’s amenities. Additionally, Pokhara offers a vibrant shopping scene where you can explore local markets and boutiques. Here, you can find traditional handicrafts, clothing items, and souvenirs to commemorate your time in Nepal.

After enjoying your time in Pokhara, you can fly back to Kathmandu in the morning or afternoon, depending on your preference and schedule.

If you choose to fly back to Kathmandu in the morning, you will have the opportunity to visit Bhaktapur Durbar Square in the afternoon. Bhaktapur Durbar Square is a renowned UNESCO World Heritage site often called a living museum. It holds immense historical and cultural significance, showcasing exquisite architecture, intricately carved temples, and traditional Newari craftsmanship.

Exploring Bhaktapur Durbar Square allows you to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Nepal. You can marvel at the impressive ancient structures, including the iconic Nyatapola Temple, Bhairavnath Temple, and the intricately designed 55-Window Palace. The square is also dotted with museums, art galleries, and traditional brick-paved streets, providing a unique and authentic experience of traditional Newari culture.

Visiting Bhaktapur Durbar Square offers an insight into the historical and artistic legacy of the region, as well as an opportunity to interact with the local community. You can witness traditional rituals, observe artisans at work, and explore the vibrant markets known for their exquisite pottery, woodwork, and hand-woven textiles.

In conclusion, depending on your choice of flight time, you can visit Bhaktapur Durbar Square in the afternoon if you fly back to Kathmandu in the morning. This UNESCO World Heritage site serves as a living museum, showcasing impressive architecture and traditional Newari culture, providing a unique and enriching experience before concluding your journey.

In the morning, we can arrange a visit to the Kathmandu Zoo, which will provide an enjoyable experience for your children. They can have fun observing various animals and learn more about wildlife conservation efforts in Nepal. If your children are interested, they can even take an elephant ride, which can be an exciting and memorable activity.

Afterwards, if your children are still enthusiastic and not too tired, visiting Patan Durbar Square in the afternoon would be a great option. Patan Durbar Square is another UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its unique architectural marvels and the area’s rich cultural heritage. While exploring the square, you and your children can witness skilled artisans demonstrating their craftsmanship through metalwork, woodwork, stone carving, and traditional art.

Patan Durbar Square offers a glimpse into the rich history and artistry of the region, allowing you and your children to appreciate the intricate details and cultural significance of the buildings and structures. The square is home to ancient palaces, temples, and courtyards, including the famous Krishna Mandir, Bhimsen Temple, and the Golden Temple (Hiranya Varna Mahavihara). There are also several museums and galleries further to explore Patan’s art, history, and heritage.

Visiting Patan Durbar Square provides an educational experience for your children and an opportunity to witness the living traditions and crafts of the local community. They can observe the artisans working on intricate designs, creating masterpieces passed down through generations.

To summarise, you can take your children to the Kathmandu Zoo in the morning for a fun-filled experience, watching animals and possibly enjoying an elephant ride. In the afternoon, if your children are up for it, visiting Patan Durbar Square presents the chance to witness skilled artisans and explore the area’s rich cultural heritage. These activities will entertain your children and provide valuable insights into Nepal’s wildlife, art, and history.

You will be brought to the airport three hours before your international flight.

A Responsible promise

Despite the exceptional circumstances in which we find ourselves at the moment, we don’t want you to give up your holiday – and we want you to be able to book your trip without any worries.

To provide additional security for your booking, we have introduced a new rebooking and cancellation policy so that you can easily rebook or cancel your trip free of charge if the worst comes to the worst.

Free Cancellation With the Responsible Promise 100% Money-Back Guarantee

For new bookings made between May 10th 2021, and December 31st 2021, you may cancel your complete package (activities, hotels, tours, excl. flight) free of charge up to 30 days before your departure and get 100% of your money back. However, to stay flexible, we recommend that you choose a flexible fare when booking your flight.

Total flexibility on your booking

Stay flexible with our new rebooking service until shortly before your departure. For new bookings made between May 10th and December 31st, 2021, you may rebook your package (activities, hotels, tours) free of charge up to 30 days before your departure (subject to availability). Rebooking is only allowed once, and you must inform us 30 days before your planned departure. Any additional costs incurred due to changes in your schedule or upgrades, such as additional fees in high season or upgrades to your accommodation, will still apply. To remain flexible, we recommend that you choose a flexible fare when booking your flight.

Trek FAQ

What’s included in the Nepal family holiday?
Twelve breakfasts, nine lunches, and nine dinners, flight Kathmandu/Pokhara, airport transfers, expert bilingual guide, group, boutique-quality accommodation in Kathmandu, two nights accommodation at a lovely resort in Chitwan, trek pack including trek kit bag, a complimentary T-shirt, private transportation, all park entrance fees, and trekking permits, porters to carry all personal and group equipment, porter’s insurance, sightseeing in Kathmandu, and all entry fees.

Am I too young or old?

Most of our clients have completed their treks from 3 years old to some in their 70s with almost no exercise or training.

Do you offer hotel/airport pick-up?

We offer hotel and airport pick-up. As you continue with your booking, there will be an option to input flight details or hotel names.

Do I need a Visa?

A visa for Nepal can be acquired on arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, and at border entry points in Kakadvitta, Birgunj, Bhairahawa, Nepalgunj, Gaddachowki on the Nepal-India border, and Kerung on the Nepal-China border.

A visa can also be obtained outside of Nepal at the nearest Nepal Embassy or Diplomatic Mission.

For more information, visit the Department of Immigration, Kalikasthan, Kathmandu.

What should I bring on a Trek?

Being adequately equipped is one of the keys to a successful trek. For information to help you select the best type of clothing and equipment for your trip, please see our Clothing and Equipment Guide.

Also, see our Links page for details of specialist retailers who will offer further advice and assistance with purchasing new clothing or equipment.

If you have more questions, please check this article to reference equipment to pack or contact us.

Here are some helpful articles:
Am I too old to go trekking?
Arriving at Kathmandu airport.
Should I bring cash or ATM cards?
What to pack for a trek?
Do I need to train for a hike?
What is a typical day on a tour like?
What is the food like on the tour?
The Benefits of Using Trekking Poles.
What do I need to know about high altitudes?
High altitude myths.
How to trek safely?
For more articles, you can go to our blogs.