Compare 19 Days- Annapurna base camp with chitwan by Asian Heritage vs Nepal in 10 days - Kathmandu Valley & Captivating Himalayas - Charm by Exoticca

Day 1: Arrival at Kathmandu

Welcome! To Kathmandu Nepal.

Asian Heritage Treks & Travel Representative welcomes you at the Airport with your nameplate.  After Arrival at Nepal airport transfer you to the hotel. On the way Airport to Hotel, you will pass by the Open cremation Place (Pashupatinath temple), Royal Palace Museum i.e. Narayanhity, Garden Of Dream and reach the Thamel.

Your hotel will be in downtown of Touristic Hub. Our representative will facilitate you and discuss your travel itinerary. There will be enough time to stroll through the street of Thamel.

Overnight accommodation in the Hotel.

Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu.

Our tour guide will come to pick you up along with the private vehicle. Firstly you will be visiting the UNESCO world heritage site Kathmandu Durbar Square where you can observe the typical wood-carved temples and buildings reflecting the ancient Kathmandu city and then you will be heading towards Swyambhunath- the monkey temple where you can observe the religious harmony and tolerance between the Buddhist religion and

Hindu religion along with that enjoy the panoramic view of Kathmandu city and the Himalaya ranges from here. After that, you will be visiting the Pashupatinath Temple, one of the biggest pilgrimage sites for the Hindu religion people in south-east Asia, explore the surroundings and you can observe the ritual body cremating ceremony process of the Hindu people at the bank of holy Bagmati river and explore the surroundings.

Then you will go to visit another UNESCO world heritage site Boudhanath Stupa. It was built in 600A.D. and is the only one of a kind of stupa reflecting Buddhism in the world. Explore the surroundings of Boudhanath Stupa and after completing your sight seen get back to the hotel and rest.

Overnight accommodation in the Hotel.

Day 3: Kathmandu to Pokhara Drive Duration: 5-6 hours

Today, we will drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara. On the way, you can enjoy the greenery around and beautiful hills. What attracts most visitors to Pokhara is the natural richness of the valley.

Imagine the joy of observing the majestic Himalayas and it's a reflection on Fewa Lake. The Pokhara valley is outstanding with the elevated close-up view of snowy peaks. Pokhara is famous for sightseeing, and many adventurous outdoor activities. We will visit Davi's Waterfall, International Mountain Museum and GhuptesworMahadev.

Overnight accommodation at hotel in Pokhara.

Day 4: Pokhara – Nayapul – Ulleri (1940 m), Driving Duration: 2 hours, Hiking Duration: 6 hours

We wake up early in the morning and take a private vehicle to Nayapul. It takes around 1 to 1.5 hours to reach Nayapul. From Nayapul, we walk for around 6 hours, to reach our Ulleri, our destination for the night. On the way to Ulleri, we are pass typical Nepali villages and beautiful terrace rice fields. The last part of the walk is quite interesting as we have to climb up to approx 2500 stone stairs!

Overnight accommodation will be in a local lodge.

Day 5: Ulleri – Ghorepani (2860 m), Hiking Duration: 5 hours

We head up for Ghorepani via a slightly easier trail. We pass through amazing Rhododendron and pine forests while crossing little bridges. We continue our walk towards the beautiful, blue village of Ghorepani. After hours of walk, we will reach the village in the late afternoon. From Ghorepani, we can enjoy a great view of the magnificent Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167 m).

Overnight accommodation will be in a lodge.

Day 6: Ghorepani – Poon Hill (3210 m) – Tadapani (2630 m), Hiking Duration: 6 hours

We get up very early in the morning to hike to Poon Hill. Here you can see the beautiful sunrise with the view of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Fishtail, and the complete Annapurna range. After sunrise, we hike back to Ghorepani to our lodge. We then continue hiking through beautiful rhododendron forests, alongside wild creeks and waterfalls. We stop at Banthati to have some rest before continuing our trail to reach Tadapani (2590 m) in the late afternoon.

Overnight accommodation will be in a lodge.

Day 7: Tadapani – Chhomrong (2010 m), Hiking Duration: 5/6 hours

The trail leads us alongside terrace rice fields and many little settlements. We descend to cross the Kimrung Khola and then climb up to reach Chhomrong during the early afternoon. From Chhomrong we have a fantastic view of Fishtail and Annapurna South.

Overnight accommodation will be in a lodge.

Day 8: Chhomrong – Bamboo (2300 m), hiking duration: 5/6 hours

We start our hike with a steep way down until we cross the Chhomrong Khola. After the bridge, we climb up to reach Sinuwa. After some rest, we continue our walk through the rocky steps. We reach the settlement Bamboo (2300 m) in the early afternoon. Bamboo is famous for its large Lemurs colonies and lodge surrounded by trees.

Overnight accommodation will be in a lodge.

Day 9: Bamboo – Deurali (3220 m), Hiking Duration: 5/6 hours

We start our hike to Deurali through Dovan village and the Himalayan hotel. In the trail, we cross beautiful rhododendron and bamboo forests. After a little settlement called Hotel Himalaya, there is a steep climb to the much drier forest. From here, we can see the trail drop closer to the river before climbing again to Deurali (2920 m).

Overnight accommodation will be in a lodge in Deurali.

Day 10: Deurali – Annapurna Base Camp (4130 m), Hiking Duration: 5/6 hours

Continuing our trekking, the trail goes alongside the beautiful Modi Khola River. On the way, we have an amazing view of the holy mountain of Machapuchare (Fishtail) which changes its shape the closer we come. After ascending for about 40 minutes we reach MBC. Catching our breath, we then continue our hike to ABC, this setting of the Annapurna Base Camp is absolutely unique and incredibly spectacular. It is also called Annapurna Sanctuary because of its oval-shaped plateau which is surrounded by a ring of mountains. Arriving at ABC we find ourselves face to face with the magical Annapurna I (8091 m). The sunrise there is truly breathtaking and worth every step. Overnight accommodation will be in a lodge.

Continuing our trekking, the trail goes alongside the beautiful Modi Khola River. On the way, we have an amazing view of the holy mountain of Machapuchare (Fishtail). After ascending for about 40 minutes we reach MBC.

Catching our breath, we then continue our hike to ABC. This setting of the Annapurna Base Camp is absolutely unique and incredibly spectacular. It is also called Annapurna Sanctuary because of its oval-shaped plateau. Arriving at ABC we find ourselves face to face with the magical Annapurna I (8091 m). The sunrise there is truly breathtaking and worth every step.

Overnight accommodation will be in a lodge.

Day 11: Annapurna Base Camp ABC (Rest Day)

Enjoy the mesmerizing sunrise view of Annapurna Base Camp. Later, you can hike to Himchuli Base Camp. It’s a rest day for your body.

Overnight accommodation will be at a lodge.

Day 12: ABC- MBC - Bamboo, Hiking Duration: 7 hours

We will find yourself facing the magical Annapurna I (8091 m). The oval shape sanctuary offers amazing views of the surrounding mountains. This is the morning you will never forget. The sunrise and views at ABC cannot be compared to anything else in the world. After breakfast at ABC, we go back to MBC and descend to Bamboo.

Overnight accommodation will be in a lodge in Bamboo.

Day 13: Bamboo – Jhinu Danda (1780 m), Hiking duration: 7/8 hours

Leaving Bamboo, we continue our walk on the same trail which we used before to reach Chhomrong. We leave our previous path and walk steeply down to a nice place called JhinuDanda. We leave our bags in the lodge and climb down to the take a relaxing bath in the hot springs of the Modi Khola River.

Overnight accommodation will be in a local lodge in Jhinu Danda.

Day 14: JhinuDanda to Pokhara via Syauli, Hiking Duration: 6 hours, Drive Duration: 2 hours

On the last day of the trek, we begin walking through a beautiful landscape with many little villages. We enjoy the flora of the region and meet numerous colorful butterflies on our way. We need to walk almost ninety minutes to get to Kyumi and again from Kyumi walk to Syauli Bazar.

From Syauli Bazaar walk two more hours to get to Nayapul. Our Annapurna Base Camp Trek ends here at Nayapul. We arrive in Nayapul in the late afternoon where we take a car back to Pokhara.

Overnight accommodation at hotel in Pokhara.

Day 15: Chitwan drive & Activities drive duration: 5-6 hours

Today, we drive to Chitwan National Park. You will visit the Tharu village and enjoy their traditional dance. You will enjoy the tea made by the Tharu community in clay teapot. Later on, enjoy the Tharu stick dance and Dhaan Naach. You will enjoy the beautiful sunset relaxing at riverside offering a glimpse of wild-life.

Overnight Accommodation: Hotel in Chitwan.

Day 16: Chitwan Activities

Today we will first walk around the jungle of Chitwan. Then, and we will dive deep down in the forest in the local jeep to trace the footprints of the tiger. Further, get prepared for the glimpse of the one-horned rhino, Asian elephant, Spotted Deer (Chital), Barking Deer, Hog Deer, Samber, Swamp Deer, Black Buck, Bull, Wild Boar, Wild Dog, Leopard, and many other wild animals.

After completing the jungle safari, we will head for the canoe trip. You will canoe ride along the Rapti river. You will see the varieties of birds in the river along with the canoe trip.

Overnight Accommodation: Hotel in Chitwan.

Day 17: Chitwan – Kathmandu Drive duration: 6-7 hours

You will drive from  Chitwan to Kathmandu. On the way, you can see the beautiful hills and slopes. Later, you can stroll through the streets of Thamel for shopping. you can also buy souvenirs for your friends and family. overnight accommodation in a Yatri Suites & Spa.

Today we will drive back to Kathmandu. Later on, you can stroll through the street of the Thamel. You can buy gifts as a token of love for your friends and family.

Overnight accommodation in the Hotel at Kathmandu.

Day 18: Sightseeing in Patan & Bhaktapur.

Today, our guide will receive you and then drive you to Patan for sightseeing. In Patan, you will be visiting other heritage like Krishna Temple and Patan Durbar Square. Later on, we visit the Patan Museum, where you can learn more about the history of Patan and the kings. We also visit the Golden Temple and Banglamukhi Temple, a major attraction for both Hindu and Buddhist people.

Then after we will be visiting Bhaktapur where you will be amazed by the architecture. Observe the old wood carved buildings all around Bhaktapur. Explore the surroundings and visit the Nyatapola Temple, the biggest temple in Nepal. Here, you can also take the pottery making class using the traditional methods. You will visit the Pottery Square. You will be taught to design and adorn your pot with beautiful patterns and inscriptions.

Overnight accommodation at the Hotel at Kathmandu.

Day 19: Departure

Your trip will come to an end today. First, you will be advised and assisted with your onward travel arrangements. Then, we shall transfer you to Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport. You will reach the airport 3 hours before your flight schedule.

Day 1: US - Night on board

Arrive at your US departure airport ready to check-in for an overnight flight to Kathmandu. Night on board. * If either your outbound or inbound flights depart in the early hours (before 4:00 a.m.) you must arrive at the airport the night before the indicated departure day.

Day 2: Kathmandu

Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel. The largest urban area in Nepal, with 2.5 million inhabitants, consists of the core of the metropolitan city of Kathmandu and its sister cities Patan, Kirtipur, Thimi and Bhaktapur, including the urban areas of Shankhapur, Karyabinayak, Champapur, Banepa, Dhulikhel and Panauti. The capital of the country is located at 1,400 meters above sea level in a picturesque bowl-shaped valley in central Nepal. Spend the day discovering the city at your leisure. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Day 3: Kathmandu - Bhaktapur - Kathmandu

Breakfast at the hotel. Today, visit Bhaktapur, known as the 'City of the Devotees', to admire the great architectural beauty of the third of the three royal cities of the Kathmandu Valley. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bhaktapur's Durbar Square is the best preserved in the valley. The Royal Palace stands out, whose entrance door is a masterpiece in embossed art, as does the Nyatapola Temple, known as the Temple of the Five Roofs for it's five magnificently sculpted floors, making it one of the highest in the country. Later, continue to the oldest temple in the Kathmandu Valley, Changu Narayan Temple located in the Changu village and dedicated to the god Vishnu. From here, take in the amazing views of the surrounding valley. Return to the hotel and overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Day 4: Kathmandu - Patan - Kathmandu

Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning we recommend an optional Mount Everest flight-seeing excursion.* Head to the Kathmandu Valley through Asan Tole, the main street of the capital's oldest shopping area, which offers a vivid display of local Nepalese life. Discover Nepalese culture and experience everyday life through the bustling and narrow streets and courtyards of the city. Visit Durbar Square in Kathmandu, where you can see the Kumari Temple and the exteriors of the Taleju Temple and Kala Bhairav. In the afternoon, explore Swayambhunath Stupa, located at the top of a hill, to contemplate the beautiful landscape of the Kathmandu Valley. Later, discover the old city of Patan and visit its Durbar Square, the oldest of the three in the valley. See the Royal Palace, home to beautiful patios and ornate windows and sanctuaries dedicated to Shiva, Ganesh and Vishnu. Afterwards, head to the Temple of the Living Goddess Kumari, who looks out onto the balcony to receive the greetings of the devotees. Return to the hotel and overnight stay in Kathmandu. * Optional Mount Everest flight-seeing excursion: One-hour long sightseeing on a fixed-wing aircraft for an experience of a lifetime. All the spectacular glaciers, snow-capped peaks and gorges glide below as you fly towards Mt. Everest. Includes a flight certificate awarded at the end of the excursion. Return to Kathmandu to begin the rest of the days sightseeing.

Day 5: Kathmandu - Chitwan

Breakfast at the hotel. Set off by road to Chitwan, passing by scenic landscapes during the approx. 4-hour journey. Arrive and get settled at the hotel. In the afternoon, set off on a 1-hour nature walk to explore the beautiful surrounding area, scattered with cabins inhabited by the indigenous Tharu tribe, who have lived in the forests surrounding Chitwan for hundreds of years. After a delicious dinner, enjoy a Tharu Stick Dance Show, performed by local farmers, for an insight into Chitwan’s cultural roots. Overnight stay in Chitwan.

Day 6: Chitwan

Rise early in the morning and enjoy a coffee/tea break before heading off to Chitwan National Park to seize the day and the tranquillity of the natural environment during the quiet hours of the morning. The area surrounding Machan Country Villa is a true paradise for birdwatchers, so keep your eyes peeled for some of the rarer species. Enjoy a nature walk with a naturalist expert who can point out the abundant birdlife before returning to the hotel for a well-deserved breakfast. Afterwards you will get to know the behaviours and characteristics of the majestic Asian elephant. Lunch included. Continue your adventure with a 3-hour jeep safari through the jungle until arriving at the shores of the Narayani River where a traditional boat awaits to take you on a tranquil boat cruise. Look out for local wildlife such as crocodiles and water birds before returning to the shore. In the evening, enjoy an informative presentation by a jungle expert to learn more about this unique eco-system. Return to the hotel for dinner. Overnight stay in Chitwan.

Day 7: Chitwan - Pokhara

Breakfast at the hotel. This morning, set off for Pokhara, a journey of around 3.5-hours long. En route, visit Bandipur Village, a small hilltop settlement and an amazing example of Newar culture. This charming village is home to precious 18th-century architecture, a number of small cafes and shops. Continue to Pokhara, nestled in a quiet, forest-covered valley. Arrive, get settled at the hotel and spend the remainder of the day at your leisure, soaking up the fantastic views of the Himalayas and the five Annapurna peaks. Overnight stay in Pokhara.

Day 8: Pokhara

Breakfast at the hotel. Set off early in the morning to Sarangkot to see the sunrise over the Himalayas, if weather conditions permit. Located at 1592 meters above sea level, it is the most popular spot to enjoy the magnificent views of the Pokhara Valley and the mountains. Afterwards, take a boat ride on Phewa Lake, see the beautiful Devi Waterfall and explore the Sacred Cave of Gupteshwor. Continue to the bustling Old Bazaar of Pokhara, a pleasant traditional place, full of merchants selling fabrics, food and gold, among other authentic Nepalese products. Return to the hotel and overnight stay in Pokhara.

Day 9: Pokhara - Kathmandu

Breakfast at the hotel. Today, head back to Kathmandu, enjoying the spectacular scenery along the way. Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel. The rest of the day is free to enjoy the city at your leisure. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Day 10: Kathmandu

Breakfast at the hotel. Today, enjoy a guided visit to Boudhanath and Pashupatinath. The Buddhist stupa of Boudhanath, one of the largest in the world and icon of Nepal, sits on an octagonal base and is surrounded by the houses of Buddhist Lamas. Afterwards, discover Pashupatinath Hindu Temple on the east bank of the river, the most important and oldest of the Kathmandu Valley, dedicated to Shiva and surrounded by an exuberant natural environment. Enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure to stroll through the city or make some last-minute souvenir purchases. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Day 11: Kathmandu - Night on board

Breakfast at the hotel. It's time to bid farewell to captivating Nepal. At the indicated time, transfer to the airport and check-in for your return flight back to the US. Night on board.* * Dependant on the choice of flight, you may arrive back in the US today.

Day 12: US

Arrive in the US and end your trip.