Hidden Himalaya: Nepal Trekking & Culture Tour
Apr 15-27, 2027
Min/Max: 8/12
Moderate +
Overview
Nepal has such a special place in my heart and it one of my absolute favorite places to hike. I’m so excited to share the Himalayan culture with you as we hike through some of the most beautiful mountain-scapes you’ll ever experience in the Annapurna region on this unique loop trek.
I’ve co-designed this trip with World Expeditions – a leader in Nepal trekking for over 50 years. It’s an incredible itinerary that takes you off the beaten path, at a slower time of year. You will have the opportunity to meet lots of locals, and really immerse yourself in the Nepalese culture!
We start with some unique hands-on experiences in Kathmandu while seeing a few of the sites and then fly to the quiet lakeside town of Pokhara where we start our journey into the Himalayas.
- Trek a quieter, less-traveled loop route to Kopra Ridge with panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges
- Enjoy the colorful rhododendron bloom throughout the region
- Visit the iconic Boudhanath Stupa and enjoy a special group dining experience in its vibrant surrounds
- Walk through traditional Gurung and Magar villages, gaining insight into rural mountain life
- Experience diverse landscapes, from lush rhododendron forests to high alpine terrain
- Stay in a combination of Eco-Comfort Camps and lodges, offering a higher level of comfort in remote settings
- Enjoy the support of an experienced local trekking crew throughout and female guide
This specially curated journey through Nepal’s Annapurna region is led by one of the few female trekking guides in Nepal – Yang Sherpa – aka Mama G. I had so much fun hiking the Everest region with her in 2025, I had to have her back for this special journey through Annapurna. Having a local female guide offers a richer, more immersive perspective on both landscape and culture.
The experience begins in Kathmandu with meaningful cultural encounters, including a hands-on workshop with a local social enterprise and time at the sacred Boudhanath Stupa, before transitioning into the foothills of the Annapurna. Moving beyond the main trekking routes, the itinerary follows a quieter path to the spectacular vantage point of Kopra Ridge, where sweeping views stretch across the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The trek unfolds gradually through terraced farmland, rhododendron forests, and traditional Gurung and Magar villages, building towards the dramatic alpine environment above.
A defining highlight is the optional journey to Khayer Lake, a sacred high-altitude site reached via ancient pilgrimage trails beneath Annapurna South—offering a rare sense of remoteness and spiritual significance. In addition, this time of year we will be able to enjoy the rhododendron bloom! Dozens of different species of rhododendrons spread in the mountain forests of the Himalayas up to an altitude of 4,000m and transform them in spring with their flowers – from bright white to purple – into a magical sea of colors!
Blending immersive trekking, authentic cultural connection, and thoughtful comfort, this journey offers a distinctive and inspiring way to experience one of Nepal’s most rewarding regions and many opportunities to meet locals.
Itinerary
Upon arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m), you will be met at the airport and transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax or explore the vibrant streets of the capital at your own pace. In the evening, you will meet your guide and fellow travelers for a welcome briefing, followed by dinner at the hotel.
Accommodation: Dusit Princess Kathmandu or similar
Meals included: Dinner
After breakfast, visit Creative Nepal, a local social enterprise in Golfutar, where you’ll take part in a hands-on bead bracelet-making workshop. This engaging experience provides a meaningful glimpse into traditional craftsmanship while directly supporting community initiatives. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure, or you may choose to further explore the vibrant streets of Kathmandu at your own pace.
In the evening, regroup for a special dinner near the iconic Boudhanath Stupa ; one of the largest and most significant Buddhist monuments in Nepal. Surrounded by prayer flags, spinning wheels, and a serene spiritual ambiance, this is a truly memorable cultural experience.
Accommodation: Dusit Princess Kathmandu or similar
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning, take a short 25-minute flight to Pokhara, Nepal’s second-largest city (820m). In clear weather, enjoy breathtaking views of the entire Annapurna range as you arrive.
From Pokhara, drive along the Modi River, passing through scenic foothills and lush valleys en route to Kimche. Upon arrival, begin a gentle one-hour trek to Ghandruk, a traditional Gurung village and your first overnight stop in the mountains.
Accommodation: Eco Campsite
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, continue your ascent along a scenic trail that winds through terraced farmland before entering dense forest. The path leads you through beautiful rhododendron and magnolia forests, with lichen-draped trees and occasional waterfalls adding to the atmosphere.
As you gain elevation, the surroundings become quieter and more remote, marking your transition into less inhabited areas of the trek. On arrival in Tadapani, a small mountain village nestled among the hills, settle into your lodge and enjoy a restful evening.
Accommodation: Eco Lodge
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, leave the main trekking trail behind and ascend along a quieter, less-defined path through pristine old-growth forest. As you gain elevation, there may be opportunities to spot wildlife such as Himalayan thar or langur monkeys before emerging above the tree line. From here, expansive views unfold across the Annapurna range.
Lunch is often taken in an alpine pasture near Timuje, with stunning views of Annapurna South and Himul Chuli. Continuing on, a steeper climb brings you to a ridge with impressive views towards Dhaulagiri, before descending through rhododendron forest to reach your remote Eco-Comfort Camp at Bhaisi Kharka
Accommodation: Eco Lodge
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Setting off early this morning, descend towards the valley floor before entering an area of old-growth forest, surrounded by vibrant rhododendron. Along the way, pass the small settlement of Chistibung, where you’ll stop for lunch.
After a relaxing break, begin your ascent towards the spectacular setting of Kopra Ridge. Upon arrival, take in sweeping panoramic views widely regarded as some of the finest in the entire Annapurna range.
Accommodation: Eco Lodge
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today offers the option of a challenging full-day hike to Khayer Lake, following a high-altitude trail above Kopra Ridge. The route traverses steep hillsides along an ancient pilgrimage path leading to this sacred alpine lake, set beneath the towering slopes of Annapurna South. Along the way, enjoy increasingly close views of the surrounding peaks, including the striking Fang Face.
The lake itself holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for local communities. After reaching Khayer Lake, return to your lodge at Kopra Ridge. Alternatively, you may choose to spend the day at leisure, relaxing and taking in the spectacular mountain scenery.
Accommodation: Eco Lodge
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, descend steeply from Kopra Ridge towards the valley below, following a trail that leads down to a mountain stream. The route passes once more through the small settlement of Chistibung before continuing through dense forest. As you lose elevation, the landscape gradually transitions from alpine terrain to lush, vegetated foothills.
Upon arrival in Swanta, settle into your Eco-Comfort Camp. In the evening, visit a local women’s cooperative, offering a meaningful insight into community life and livelihoods in the region.
Accommodation: Eco Campsite
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, ascend to Chitre, joining a historic trade route that continues towards Ghorepani. The trail climbs steadily, offering views towards the Dhaulagiri range, before reaching Ghorepani a village on the main trekking route where you stop for lunch.
In the afternoon, continue to Poon Hill, a renowned viewpoint known for its panoramic mountain vistas. From here, leave the main trail behind and follow quieter paths towards Upper Phulbari. Upon arrival, settle into your lodge and take in sweeping views across the Dhaulagiri massif. Accommodation: Eco Lodge
Accommodation: Eco Lodge
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning, continue along forested trails with views across the surrounding foothills and distant Himalayan ranges. The route passes through a diverse mix of rhododendron, pine, fir, cedar, and bamboo, following quieter, less-frequented paths.
As you progress, the trail opens onto scenic ridgelines before descending into a valley where you stop for lunch. From here, follow the southern trail to Lespar (Sarga), arriving at your Eco-Comfort Camp set in a peaceful and secluded location. Accommodation: Eco Campsite
Accommodation: Eco Campsite
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, you begin your final trek descending toward Pathichaur. The route passes through charming countryside, forest trails, and scattered villages, with beautiful final views of the surrounding hills and mountains.
Upon reaching Pathichaur, you meet your vehicle and begin the scenic drive to Pokhara, Nepal’s beautiful lakeside city. As you leave the mountains behind, the road follows rivers and rolling hills before arriving in Pokhara.
The remainder of the day is free to relax and enjoy the comforts of your hotel. You may choose to stroll along the lakeside, explore local cafés and shops, or simply unwind after your trekking adventure while reflecting on the unforgettable journey through the Himalayas.
Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, take a short scenic flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure for last-minute shopping, sightseeing, or simply relaxing before your departure.
Accommodation: Dusit Princess Kathmandu or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
After breakfast, your arrangements conclude in Kathmandu. If you are departing today, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey. Alternatively, you may choose to extend your stay in Kathmandu. No further activities are included on this day.
Meals included: Breakfast
Details
What’s Included
- Accommodation: 4 nights in comfortable hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara, and 8 nights in Eco-Comfort camps and lodges during the trek.
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), welcome dinner in Kathmandu, special group dinner near Boudhanath Stupa, and dinner in Pokhara at the end of the trek.
- Lunch and dinner are included during the Day 2 cultural experience.
- Guiding & Crew: Accompaniment by your host,Sherry Ott, experienced local trekking guides, full trekking support crew including porters, porter wages and food, and equipment.
- Flights & Transfers: Domestic flights: Kathmandu – Pokhara – Kathmandu, airport transfers, and ground transportation (private vehicles).
- Cultural workshop with a local social enterprise (Creative Nepal).
- Visit to Boudhanath Stupa
- All guided sightseeing and group activities as per the itinerary.
- Permits & Fees
- National Park entry fees
- Use of a World Expeditions trek pack, including a quality sleeping bag, down or fibre-fill jacket, and insulated mat (valued at over $500 USD).
What’s Not Included
- International flights
- Visa
- Travel insurance
- Meals not listed as included
- Personal expenses such as laundry, etc.
- Bottled water, aerated, and alcoholic drinks
- Tips and gratuities
- Any items not listed as included
Lodging
Exclusive Eco-Comfort Camps. Four decades of feedback and experience have proven that camping provides the most authentic trekking experience in Nepal. On this trek, you will enjoy the extra comfort of our exclusive camps, which feature standing height tents, clean beds with mattresses and pillows, a heated dining room, composting sit-down toilets, and more.
Meals at our Exclusive Eco-Comfort Camps. Did you know that meals on a 2-week tea-house-based trek in Nepal could cost you more than US$800 per person?! Value for money, peace of mind, looking after your health, as well as the local landscapes, are just some of the reasons why we believe it’s a wise decision to choose a Nepal trek with all meals included. Watch ‘7 Reasons Why We Include Meals On Our Nepal Treks’ video below to learn even more.
Dusit Princess Kathmandu is a contemporary 5-star hotel located in the heart of the city, offering a comfortable and stylish base with easy access to Kathmandu’s cultural highlights. The property features modern, well-appointed rooms, many with city views—alongside facilities including a rooftop swimming pool, spa, fitness centre and multiple dining options, creating a relaxing retreat before and after your trek.
Booking
Send me an email at [email protected] letting me know about your interest. We will set up a call to discuss any questions you have. This will be on a first-come, first-served basis – there are only 12 spots available on this tour.
I will then provide you with a link to deposit your money and reserve your space with World Expeditions. Upon booking this trip, a dedicated World Expeditions Reservations Consultant will immediately begin securing services related to your adventure.
Do not book any flights or any other non-refundable travel arrangements until your Reservations Consultant advises you that the trip has been confirmed. (min. 8 people)
Other Booking Notes:
A non-refundable deposit of USD$700.00 per person is required for this booking.
Single supplement: $330 USD
Balance of payment is due on 4 February 2027.
For the tour to run, a minimum of 8 people are required. Please wait to purchase airfare until we can confirm 8 guests.
Cancellation:
If you wish to cancel your tour, you must notify WE in writing whereafter the cancellation will take effect subject to the following:
• If cancellation takes place more than 70 days prior to your departure date your full deposit, and any additional non-refundable deposits or permit paid, will be forfeited.
• If cancellation takes place between 70 & 35 days prior to your departure date 50% of the tour price will be forfeited.
• If cancellation takes place less than 35 days prior to your departure date 100% of the tour price will be forfeited.
Extras – Add ons
Chitwan 3-day Wildlife Safari – An exciting wildlife experience to combine with your trek
- Search for the Asiatic Rhino and Bengal Tiger in Chitwan National Park
- Journey down-river in a traditional dug-out canoe and spot exotic birds and wildlife
- Experience the ‘Terai’ on the fringe of the Indian plains
- Embark on a guided jungle adventure walk
- Watch rural life unfold around Chitwan
Chitwan 3-day Elephant Immersion – An ethical way to enjoy the majesty of these noble creatures
- Interact with and observe the magnificent Asian elephant in an ethically sound manner
- Embark on a walking safari through the jungle with the elephants and spot the various game species that inhabit the area
- Comfortable and atmospheric safari-style accommodation
World Animal Protection classifies an elephant-friendly venue as one that doesn’t “use elephants for entertainment or allow direct tourist-elephant contact”. In line with World Expeditions Animal Welfare Code of Conduct, the elephants at Tharu Tiger Tops Lodge are free to behave naturally. This is why this venue has been listed by World Animal Protection as an elephant-friendly. You will learn about the complex needs of elephants and how we can best ensure their welfare and conservation.
Reviews
April 15-27, 2027
$3,590 USD
$700 USD Non-refundable deposit
$330 USD Single supplement
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Still Have Questions?
Contact Sherry about OttsWorld Tours