Day 1 : Kathmandu
Hey there, welcome to Nepal! Get ready for an exhilarating adventure through the world’s tallest mountains. We’ll pick you up at the airport and drop you off at the hotel, where you’ll meet El and the rest of your crew. The high-on-life vibes are peaking, but make sure to get a good night’s sleep cuz our epic trek begins tomorrow!
Accommodation : Hotel Shanker (or similar)
Day 2 : Kathmandu to Pokhara
Our adventure begins today as we meet amongst the charming chaos of Kathmandu. We'll bond with our new trekking crew as we make the drive up to Pokhara. This beautiful lakeside settlement is framed by the spectacular Himalayas. We'll check into our hotel tonight ready for a day of trekking tomorrow.
Accommodation : A conveniently located hotel
Day 3 : Pokhara to Dhampus via Phedi
After an included breakfast this morning - and we'll need all the fuel we can get -we'll drive our van up to Phedi. We'll start our trek from Phedi, where steep stone staircases snake their way up the rhododendron hillsides. We'll start our steep ascent, reaching lower Dhampus in 1 to 2 hours. Gently climbing up again past the terraced fields and small houses and rhododendrons, we'll reach our lodge, admiring the spectacular Annapurna Range and Machhapuchhre (fishtail) in the distance. After an included dinner we'll turn in for the night.
Accommodation : Hiking Lodge (or similar)
Day 4 : Dhampus to Australian Camp
Sip your tea this morning with your breakfast as you watch the sun illuminate the mountains ahead. A short trek today brings us to our lunch stop, after which we'll climb up through the beautiful oak forests, reaching Pothana. We'll stop here for a brief recharge before we climb the stone staircases up towards the Australian Camp. Enjoy another magical sunset as it alights the Himalayas this evening.
Accommodation : Hiking Lodge (or similar)
Day 5 : Australian Camp to Sarangkot
After breakfast in Australian Camp this morning we'll resume our hike through the dense forests, on a slight descent towards Naudanda (Nine hill). After a stop for lunch we'll continue the hike to Sarangkot. The trail here is fairly relaxed, as we ease along a ridge to a dense settlement with lots of mixed indigenous groups. Sarangkot offers spectacular mountain scenery of Mt. Dhaulagri, Annapurna, Machhapuchre, Nilgiri and more. As the night draws in, you can see lights illuminating the beautiful Pokhara Valley below. We've seen plenty of spectacular views, but this might just be the best so far.
Accommodation : Hiking Lodge (or similar)
Day 6 : Sarangkot to Pokhara
After breakfast this morning we'll make our way to the legendary viewpoint at Sarangkot. Through terraced farms and villages we'll finally reach the summit, offering spectacular Himalayan panoramas that are simply unforgettable. This is what we came for, and it makes the hard work so worth it. After posing for some photos we'll make the hike back to Pokhara. Upon arrival we'll have a free afternoon to chill by the lake and try the local foodie delights.
Accommodation : A conveniently located hotel
Day 7 : Pokhara to Kathmandu
After a heavenly sleep and breakfast we'll make our way back to Kathmandu this morning. Back to the city where it all started, you’ve got some time today for some R&R. Best part? You’ve also got all the oh-so-divine views to keep you company.
Accommodation : Hotel Shanker (or similar)
Day 8 : Kathmandu
Mornin’ trekkers! It’s our last full day here. But we're not done yet. After a guided tour of the city's best spots, get ready for an epic afternoon of vibrant festivities as we celebrate Holi! The rest of the day is all yours to spend exploring this Himalayan wonderland with your crew, however you like.
Accommodation : Hotel Shanker (or similar)
Day 9 : Kathmandu
Aaand with that, our trip has come to an end (sob). Hop on for a ride to the airport and say goodbye to El & your Contiki fam. Don’t forget to exchange deets! We have a hunch that there’s another trip on the radar…