Easy Annapurna Foothills & Lower Mustang trek in Nepal

Kathmandu Airport - Arrival Transfer - Thamel Tourist Market

Day 1: Say Hello to Kathmandu

Upon arrival at Kathmandu International Airport, look out for the friendly face of your private transfer waiting for you in the arrivals hall.

After assisting you with your luggage, your driver will drive you to your hotel in the heart of Kathmandu - just over an hour’s drive. Don't forget to look out the window and be awed by the beautiful view of mountains and landscapes.

Once you've checked into the hotel, feel free to freshen up and relax before enjoying the rest of the evening at your own pace and leisure discovering the city, and in particular, the Thamel Tourist Market - who knows what you might find.

Kathmandu - Rafting/cable Car Ride - Pokhara

Day 2: Whitewater Rafting in the Himalayas

We hope after a delectable breakfast and comfortable sleep, you're excited by your trip's first adventure.

We're headed to Pokhara today, famous for picturesque views of the Himalayas and its snow-fed lakes. The reflection of Mt. Fishtail and Annapurna range on Lake Phewa is breathtaking, and here you can also find the base camp for the trekking on the Annapurna region with other day hike tours around the valley rim.

En-route, we'll stop for some whitewater rafting at
Trishuli river followed by Lunch. Alternatively, you can enjoy a Manakamana temple visit with a cable car ride if you'd prefer to stay on land.

After the excursion, we'll continue onto Pokhara, where after checking in at your hotel, you have the evening free to stroll around the Phewa Lakeside area.

Pokhara - Trek To Dhampus - Australian Camp

Day 3: Hike to the Top of the World

After breakfast this morning, you'll be picked up from your hotel and driven 30 minutes to reach to Baskot, the starting point of your trek to Dhampus village. En-route you will visit typical settlements like Dhital tole and Hyangakot village.

Dhampus is one of the most picturesque villages located in the Annapurna Foothill overlooking panoramic views of Mount Annapurna, Fishtail, and Dhaulagiri.

After lunch and spending some time at Dhapus we'll begin the hike to the Australian Camp, an open ground located at a hilltop overlooking the Annapurna mountain.

Upon arrival, check in at the local lodge and relax.

Trek To Panchase Village - En-route Kande Village

Day 4: Stay with the Locals in Kande

Our day begins early this morning at dawn to enjoy the spectacular sunrise and mountain views.

After breakfast, we'll hit the trails again to begin the hike to Kande. The first section of the trek today is slightly downhill and the rest of the trekking trail will be mostly uphill.

Follow the trekking trail slightly uphill to reach Panchase Bhanjyang, you'll check-in at a local lodge/homestay, before exploring the typical Gurung settlement located in Pokhara valley rim, popular for panoramic views of mountains in the western area including Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Manaslu, Lamjung, Gorkha and Ganeshhilma.

Panchase Bhanjyang - Drive Pokhara

Day 5: See A Local Side to Nepal

This morning, after breakfast at your homestay, we'll begin the trek down to Ghatichhinna. You will explore the local villages in the Pokhara valley rim accompanied by the excellent view of the mountains bypassing the trekking trail through villages and farmlands.

After spending some hours here, we will then head towards Pokhara, the city of lakes. Settle in for the drive and gaze out the window to truly appreciate the scenery.

Upon arrival, spend time basking and bathing in the beauty and tranquility of the Himalayas, where you will have the free time to continue exploring this natural jewel.

Fly Jomsom - Trek Kagbeni - Lower Mustang Area

Day 6: Venture into Deeper Nepal

This morning you'll be transferred to Pokhara airport in time to board your flight to Jomsom, the starting point for your trek to Kagbeni.

Jomsom is among the very few places in Nepal from where the Himalayan peaks can be admired at such a close range and yet from a safe altitude of only 2800 meters. Giant peaks like Nilgiri, Tilicho, and Dhaulagiri seem so close you could reach out to touch them.

After arriving at Jomsom, you will trek north to Kagbeni, arriving in time for lunch. It is an oasis of green fields amidst rocky, arid mountains, with Niligiri looming beyond.

Trek Jharkot Village

Day 7: Immerse Yourself in Jharkot

After breakfast, we'll begin the trek to Jharkot located in
lower Mustang area.

From Kagbeni to Jharkot it is approximately 3-4 hours walking, depending on how you are feeling in the dry air and the altitude. It's an uphill trek and you gain quite a bit of elevation, so it’s nice to stop to take the afternoon to explore an old fortified village.

The main feature of the village is the striking red Gompa (monastery) of the Sakya sect of Buddhism that sits prominently at the front of the village. This Gompa is more than 500 years old and has an active Tibetan Medicine school. There are stunning views down the valley and up towards the famous Thorong La (pass) which is the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit trek.

Muktinath Excursion - Lower Mustang Area

Day 8: Sojourn through Charming Villages

We hope that after a comfortable sleep and a delectable breakfast that you are ready for your next adventure in Nepal.

Today, we're headed for Muktinath, an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists and Hindus, and a great example of a sacred place shared in harmony by followers of two religions.

Local Buddhist nuns (belonging to the lineage of Lama Wangyal) care-take the site and every year, thousands of devotees from India, Tibet, and Nepal come here on pilgrimage for purification and salvation. It is said that throughout history many kings throughout Asia did the same.

It's well worth spending a day here to not only visit this sacred shrine but also to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. 

Trek Jomsom - Via Lurpa Village

Day 9: Find Peace in Jomsom

We'll descend to Jomsom via Lupra village today, visiting a local Bonpo monastery along the way. While we have to ascend the mountain again for a shortcut back to the trail, it is a great route that trekkers on the Annapurna circuit miss out on, so you will be far away from the crowds and the jeep trail to Jharkot and Muktinath.

Bonpo is an ancient pre-Buddhist religion not represented by many monasteries these days, so it is a rare and special chance to learn about this ancient animist religion while taking a stunning alternate route back to Jomsom.

Upon arrival in Jomsom, rest and relax in the comfort of your room.

Marpha Village - Dhumba Lake - Jomsom

Day 10: Discover Lakes at Great Heights

This morning we're headed for Marpha, one of the most famous villages of the Panch Gaun region in the Mustang district on the Annapurna Circuit Trek route of Nepal.

It is famous for its picturesque appearance and most importantly for its apple orchards and apple products. It lies in the trans–Himalayan rain shadow zone and therefore stays more or less untouched by the raging monsoon of the lower ranges.

If time permits, we'll also visit Dhumba Lake, the hidden gem of Mustang that is emerald green in color and lies at an altitude of 2900 m above sea level. 

Fly Pokhara - Pokhara Sightseeing - Boating

Day 11: Live Life by the Lake in Pokhara

Early this morning, you will board a flight headed to Pokhara, where upon arrival, you'll be met by the friendly face of our representative who will transfer you to your hotel, where you can check-in and freshen up.

In the afternoon, we'll embark on a Pokhara city tour covering Bindabashini Temple, Seti Gorge, Devis Fall, and Gupteshwor Cave before ending with a boat ride on Phewa Lake.

Once finished, you can utilize your free time strolling around the lakeside or why not indulge in the delectable food in some of the best cafes around the lakeside.

Fly Kathmandu - Farewell Dinner With Cultural Show

Day 12: One Final Night in Nepal

Transfer to Pokhara Airport this morning for your flight back to Kathmandu.

In the air, you will be welcomed by the scenic mountains which by now are almost like family, familiar but still able to stir something special every time you see them.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you’ll be transferred to your hotel where you can freshen up before using the free time to explore Kathmandu on your own.

In the evening, you will be treated to a traditional dinner at a Nepali restaurant to enjoy a final farewell dinner with entertainment showcasing the best of Nepalese culture.

Departure Transfer - Kathmandu Airport

Day 13: Say Farewell to Nepal

This morning you’ll have some free time to spend at your own pace and leisure, enjoying everything that this quaint city has to offer.

Depending on when your flight is, you may need to head straight to the airport.

Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end but we hope you have enjoyed your time exploring the very best that Nepal has to offer. The rich natural beauty, storied history, and the people make the county what it is.

We hope you have had a memorable trip and wish you pleasant onward travels!