Classic Nepal

Nepal is sometimes unfairly cast as just a trekking destination. In truth, it offers something far more varied. So from the tropical lowlands of the Terai to the high Himalaya, you find jungles, rivers, historic cities and great peaks. Together, they make for an outstandingly varied journey. This classic route gathers a little of everything. As ever, it is fully private, with your own guides, sherpas and transfers.

Kathmandu: A Cultural Start

Begin in Kathmandu at the beautiful Dwarika’s. After a gentle first day, a private guide reveals the city’s hidden side. So you wander the alleyways around Durbar Square. Then visit Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath and Boudhanath. For an early thrill, you might add a mountain flight around Everest.

The Annapurna Trek

Next, fly to Pokhara, where your trekking team meets you. The trek in the Annapurna region begins gently along a ridgeline. Soon you drop to Birethanti and the lovely Sanctuary Lodge. The next day climbs to Ghandruk and Himalaya Lodge, about five hours. Ghandruk is the most picturesque of all Annapurna villages. So you stay two nights, with time for a day-walk. Then trek down a quieter trail to Gurung Lodge at Majgaun.

Pokhara: A Well-Earned Rest

After the trek, drive back to Pokhara for two nights. You stay at the Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge or Temple Tree. So you can simply put your feet up. Head down to a lakeside garden restaurant for lunch. Equally, take a boat on the lake or try paragliding. The dramatic Annapurna range towers above throughout.

Bandipur and the Seti River

Next, drive to Bandipur, a little town almost untouched by time. Helpfully, it bans vehicles from its centre. You stay just outside at the off-the-beaten-track Three Mountain Lodge. The following day, walk down to the Seti River for lunch at the camp. Then raft gently downstream, more a float than a thrill. Afterwards, you are driven on to Chitwan.

Chitwan: Into the Wild

At Chitwan National Park, you stay at Kasara Resort or Maghauli Serai. So you rise early for a game drive, by jeep, elephant or boat. The wildlife is wonderfully diverse here. The highlight, of course, is the one-horned rhino. There are tigers too, though the high grass keeps them well hidden.

A Final Himalayan View

Finally, fly back to Kathmandu and up to Dwarika’s Dhulikhel. It sits on the valley rim, with the whole Himalayan skyline beyond. So the last days are for relaxing. You might visit the medieval city of Bhaktapur. Equally, take a gentle day-walk or cycle. Then sit back and take in the view.

A Land of Contrasts

The joy of this route is its sheer variety. First come temples and medieval cities. Then misty mountain trails and luxury lodges. Soon after, a river float and a jungle safari. So no two days feel the same. In short, it captures the whole of Nepal in one journey.

Where You Stay

Naturally, the hotels are a real part of the pleasure. First, Dwarika’s grounds you in Kathmandu’s heritage. On the trail, the Annapurna lodges bring comfort and views. Then Three Mountain Lodge and Kasara add character. Finally, Dwarika’s Dhulikhel delivers serenity and spa.

Best Time to Travel

Generally, spring and autumn bring the clearest mountain views. They also offer the most comfortable trekking conditions. By contrast, the monsoon months are best avoided for walking. So we plan the route around the seasons. Either way, we advise on the ideal window for your dates.

The Wildlife of Chitwan

Chitwan brings a wilder note to the trip. So the game drives are a real highlight. By jeep, elephant or boat, you look for rhino and deer. Meanwhile, the birdlife and crocodiles add to the thrill. As a result, the jungle feels gloriously alive.

Who It Suits

Above all, this suits first-time visitors wanting the full picture. Equally, it rewards anyone who loves variety. Couples, families and small groups all enjoy it. As a result, it remains our classic Nepal tour.

Designed Around You

As ever, this route is only a starting point. So we shape the pace, the trek and the hotels to suit. In the end, the trip is entirely your own.

Easy to Combine

Finally, this route pairs well with more of the region. For example, extend to a beach in the Maldives. Equally, add more time on the trail or in Pokhara. As ever, every detail is shaped to suit your plans. For more ideas, browse our wider itineraries.

A Gentle Pace

Above all, the route never feels rushed. So you settle into each place for a night or more. Meanwhile, the short drives keep the days easy. As a result, you return refreshed rather than worn out.

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is the trek?

It is gentle, at four to five hours a day. Helpfully, porters carry the bags and the pace suits you. So it is about immersion rather than hard trekking.

Is the rafting safe?

Yes. The Seti is mostly a gentle float, with occasional easy rapids. So it suits all ages and abilities.

When is the best time to go?

Generally, spring and autumn are best for clear views and comfortable walking. We will advise on timing for your dates.

Can it be tailored?

Entirely. The trek, the pace and the hotels are all shaped around you. Simply share your dates and interests, and we will craft the rest.