Trip Itinerary
Please note: The October 2011 departure follows the same itinerary but trekking in the Everest region before the Annapurna.
Day 1: Rendezvous art the 5-star Yak and Yeti Hotel in Kathmandu. KE group package services begin with a complimentary airport transfer which is provided for all flights. After briefing by our guide the rest of the day is free to explore and we meet for dinner at the hotel.
Day 2: After breakfast, we take a 30 minute flight to Pokhara. This spectacular flight offers views of the Langtang, Manaslu and Annapurna ranges. On arrival we transfer to the start of our walk which follows a ridgeline in the lower foothills of the Annapurnas with surrounding views of the Pokhara Valley. Finally we descend to the valley of the Modi Kola, and our first night's accommodation.
Day 3: Our trek today follows the Modi Kola before climbing and contouring through forests to our next lodge which is built to resemble a traditional Nepalese village and every room has spectacular views of the surrounding valley and mountains. After lunch we have a day walk to the local village of Tanchok. Overnight at Gurung Lodge.
Day 4: Our walk today takes us through sub-tropical forests of tree orchids, rhododendrons and magnolias, past the village of Pothana where many Tibetan traders live and sell their wares. We reach our next lodge in time for lunch and afterwards there is an option to walk through the old village of Dhampus. From the lodge, there are sweeping views of the entire Annapurna Range.
Day 5: We descend wooded hillside and terraced farmland to reach the valley floor in 1.5 hours. We then have a 30 minute transfer to Pokhara where we check into our hotel. After lunch the afternoon is free to explore the lakeside with its array of colourful shops, or to take a boat out on the lake. Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 6: An early start for the flight to Lukla. This incredible flight is a highlight of the trip and follows the Annapurna, Manaslu, Langtang and Jugal ranges before entering the Eastern region where we pass Rolwaling, Gaurisankar and Menlungtse. After lunch in Lukla we trek mostly downhill to Phakding (8530ft) and we stay overnight at the Yeti Mountain Home.
Day 7: We continue up the Dudh Kosi Valley past many small farms and villages and with several ups and downs to reach the village of Monjo and our night's accommodation. After lunch at the lodge there is the option for a guided walk or we can simply relax and enjoy the spectacular location high above the river.
Day 8: A little way into our morning's walk we enter the Sagamartha National Park at Jorsale. After crossing and recrossing the river on three suspension bridges, we make a final steep climb to the Sherpa capital of Namche Bazaar (11280ft). The afternoon is free to explore the bazaar and we stay overnight at the Yeti Mountain Home - Namche.
Day 9: There is the option today of a day hike to the Sherpa villages of Khumjung and Kunde for views of Everest, Lhotse and Ama Dablam. Overnight at Yeti Mountain Home - Namche.
Day 10: The last morning of trekking is short but steep as we make the 1 hour climb up to Syangboche. There is a small airstrip here and we take our own plane back to Kathmandu. Arriving in the city around mid-day or early afternoon, we check into the Yak and Yeti hotel. The rest of the day is free for relaxing or souvenir buying. Overnight at the Yak and Yeti.
Day 11: We have a full day's sightseeing tour of Kathmandu Valley. In the morning we visit the ancient city of Bhaktapur and after lunch our tour will take in the ghats of Pashupatinath and the great stupa at Boudhanath. Overnight at the Yak and Yeti.
Day 12: Depending on flight times this morning is free for further exploration or shopping. KE group package services end after lunch. Complimentary airport transfers are provided for all flights.
