Trip Dossier

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu 

As you fly into Kathmandu on a clear day, the views of snow-capped mountain peaks spread down below you are almost breathtaking. This begins a memorable experience that stays with you for a long time. An escort from our office will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel. At the hotel you will be briefed about your daily activities. Your first overnight in Kathmandu.
 
Day 2: Free at your own leisure

After your first night in Kathmandu, you will be well informed on arrival about what to do in your next free day.

The choice is yours: either you can stroll around the nearby market on your own or you can opt for a half/full day guided sightseeing tour in Kathmandu at places of interest. The cost for this extra tour is not added in the trek cost and you have to pay extra depending on the places you choose to visit. This extra tour gives you deep insights into Nepal’s iconic monuments that have been recognized by UNESCO as world heritage sites.  Sansui Treks will give you an orientation on your program & you will also get the opportunity to ask us any questions you may have regarding our upcoming adventure. When this is done, you might find time to shop around the city in the evening time if you need any gears for the trek. Overnight at your hotel

Day 3: Drive Kathmandu to Jagat [1100m] - 8-10 hours

We start up early as this is a pretty lengthy drive ahead of us. We begin our drive straight after breakfast and leave Kathmandu around 7 am in the morning. We get pretty views of Nepal’s rural countryside, lush greenery for miles, gentle flowing rivers, vibrant villages, well cultivated farms and sublime mountain vistas en route throughout the drive. After 8-10 hours of driving we reach Jagat via Besishahar. The Drive up to Besishahar will probably be smooth owing to black-topped roads but after Besishahar, the road get dusty and roughshod but the scenic views from the windows of our vehicle is more than a reward for the bumpy ride. Overnight in Jagat in tented camps
 
Day 4: Jagat to Dharapani [1960m] - 7-8 hours 

The trail from Jagat descends until it almost reaches the river and then begins to climb again through a forest. The sheer cliff on the opposite bank plunges downward but this side is also steep. When the climb ends, we follow a level track to Chyamje. There is a magnificent waterfall on the opposite bank. After descending to the river and crossing a suspension bridge, we begin a climb to Sattale on a path so steep that it seems one slip would send you hurtling down into the valley. We continue on an undulating path above the river, and at one point, where a tributary flows in from the opposite bank, the main river becomes covered with huge boulders that hide the water. Climbing the zigzag path to the top of the hill, we see the level, plain of Tal before us. Though it is enclosed by cliffs, the level area looks reassuring after the harrowing mountain paths just travelled on. We descend to a grassy riverbank which leads to Tal with its hotels and teahouses. Beyond Tal, the valley narrows and the path becomes high and winding, and in several areas seems hewn from the rock itself. Beyond the small village of Karte, there is a bit more cliff-walking before the path drops again to the river. We cross a suspension bridge, and climb the short distance to the stone mani marking the entrance to Dharapani. And this is where we spend our night
 
Day 5: Dharapani to Koto [2,610m] - 5-6 hours

We head out after breakfast towards Bagarchhap which takes about one hour passing through pine and fir forests. We can visit the white washed quiet monastery in this village. We then continue our hike till Danaque which takes about an hour. The trail is steeply ascending up to Timang. We get great views of Mt. Manaslu and Peak 29 from here. Now the trail continues through pine forests again till Latamarang which takes about one and half hour. We haul up for a lunch break hereabouts and again begin our walk through forests where we get little peeps of Annapurna II. Finally, we arrive at Koto village for our overnight in camps
 
Day 6: Koto to Meta [3,560m] - 7-8 hours

As we set out in the morning, we mark out our restricted area permits at the Police Check Post. Then we trek by the river banks of Soti Khola again through wonderful pine forests, streams and an airy suspension bridge to reach Dharamsala. We enjoy our packed lunch on the way. We then continue our walk through forests and ascend steeply towards Meta village. Finally, after a lengthy hike we arrive on the Tibetan Plateau where we have grandstand views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal. Overnight in our tented camps at Meta
 
Day 7: Meta to Phu Gaon [4,250m] - 7-8 hours

We start our day going back and forth with ups and downs and crossing airy suspension bridges over different streams. Its one of those hikes we’ll like despite the lengthy trek. After almost 4 hours of trekking we reach Kyang where we can see the remnants of an old rebellion, particularly the ruined forts of the Khampa settlements (the place which Khampa refugees from Tibet once captured and dwelled in). We further keep walking past the Phu Khola on a rocky trail and finally reach the village of Phu in another 3 to 4 hours. We camp overnight at Phu Gaon in tented camps
 
Day 8: Acclimatization at Phu Gaon

As per our trip plan, we use this day to acclimatize; it’s wise to rest and get acclimatized with the altitude and the thinning air. Since we are in the Lost/Hidden Valley, we can explore the culture, natural diversity, and religious traditions of the ethnic groups which include the Lama, Gurung and Ghale tribes hereabouts. Besides this, we also learn how the local folks survive depending on agriculture, animal breeding and seasonal migrations in such remote locations like the hidden valley.
 
We can also explore the Tashi Lakhang Monastery – the old Buddhist Monastery listed out of the 108 world’s great Buddhist Monasteries; it is assumed to be the last monastery constructed by Karmapa Rinpoche. Apart from discovering the cultural importance of the lost valley, the valley also offers us fantastic views of Himlung Himal and other snow laden peaks in the region. We hang out for another night at Phu Gaon.
 
Day 9: Phu Gaon to Naar [4,110m] - 6-7 hours

The trail descends passing many streams and suspension bridges until Mahendra Pul which takes about 4 hours. We pass the high suspension bridge at 80m over the Gorge of Lapche River. We haul up for lunch at Mahendra Pul. After lunch, the trail steeply ascends passing many Buddhist stupas until Naar Village which takes about 2 hours. We find several Buddhist Monasteries here to visit and include superb vistas of Pisang Peak and other smaller peaks. Overnight in tented camps at Naar
 
Day 10: Acclimatization and preparation at Naar

Our itinerary planning includes a second scheduled day for acclimatization/rest day for this journey. We don’t remain idle while resting; we spend our time taking a day hike nearby and exploring Naar village and get a closer look into the local culture and lifestyles of these ancient villages. We also prepare for our hike the next day. Overnight in our tented camps at Naar
 
Day 11: Naar to Kang La Pass at [5,322m] to Ngwal [3,660m] - 7-8 hours 

Today is one of those high and wild adventurous days with a lengthy hike so we get up early in the morning and head to Kangla pass. From the pass we get some stunning views of the Annapurna massif. We further trek down to Ngwal from here. Overnight in the village of Ngwal in our tented camps
 
Day 12: Ngwal to Manang [3,540m] - 4-5 hours

From Ngwal, we get set for Manang today. We pass through the cut off village of Paugh overlooking breathtaking views of the Annapurna range. We then move gently uphill to Mungli and then to the main trail of the Annapurna Circuit at Mungli. We finally reach Manang, where we set up our camps for our overnight stay in Manang.   
 
Day 13: Manang to Yak Kharka [4,110m] 3-4 hours

Heading out from Manang village, our trail crosses a stream, climbs to a village of Tenki above Manang, and then continues to climb out of the Marshyangdi Valley turning northwest up the valley of Jarsang Khola.
 
From here, the trail follows this valley northward, passing a few pastures, a scrub of juniper trees, steadily gaining elevation. The trail further passes near the small village of Ghunsa, a cluster of flat mud roofs just below the trailhead. Now the trail goes through verdant meadows where horses and yaks graze. After crossing a small river on a wooden rickety bridge, the trail passes an ancient old Mani wall in a pleasant meadow and then reaches another small village of Yak Kharka. Overnight at Yak Kharka in our tented camps
 
Day 14: Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi [4,600m] - 3-4 hours

We make a beeline for the foot of the pass at Thorong Phedi today. Thorong Phedi is a small hectic settlement which serves the needs of weary trekkers and climbers. Guide Trekkers like us use this point as a base camp. Some visitors also attempt a hike to the High Camp today so that the next day can be easier for them. However, group leaders at Incentive Holidays prefer to avoid this unnecessary rush. Despite the harsh day tomorrow, we haul up at Thorong Phedi so that we can have a naturally good sleep at lower altitudes rather than risk sleeping on higher elevations at High Camp. We crash out for the night in tented camps at Thorong Phedi.
 
Day 15: Thorong Phedi to Thorong La [5,416m] to Muktinath [3,800m] - 7-8 hours

Crossing the grueling Thorong La Pass at a heady height of 5,416m/17,764ft is another notable part of this venture. Setting out at the break of dawn is important to go through the icy high-altitude trail. But the pleasing mountain vistas are an absolute reward for the exhausting walk through the taxing trail. We reach the Himalayan pilgrimage site of Muktinath by dusk; this is a venerated pilgrimage spot for both Hindus and Buddhist. We can amble around the area which hosts a Vishnu temple and a Monastery nearby. Overnight in our tented camps at Muktinath
 
Day 16: Muktinath to Jomsom [2,715m] - 5-6 hours 

We begin descending down the striking Kali Gandaki Gorge through parched territory. We pass by Jharkot and Khingar villages which have typical Tibetan architecture. Following the valley floor most of the way sprawled along the banks of the Kali Gandaki, we reach Jomsom for a night’s halt.
 
Day 17: Jomsom to Pokhara Flight [823m] 30 min flight

After breakfast we check into the airport for our Pokhara flight. The scenic flight takes us through the gorge of the two huge mountains, Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. On arrival at Pokhara airport, we will be transferred to a hotel down by the lake. We chill out for some time and explore the beauty of Pokhara Valley at eventide. We kick back alongside Pokhara’s café s by the banks of Fewa Lake, the second biggest lake of Nepal and soak up the mountain views of Machhapuchhare peak. We can also go for a boat-ride on the tranquil Fewa or take a short hike to the World Peace Pagoda. We can wrap up our day with a romantic stroll around the hypnotic lakeside. Overnight in the city of lakes
 
Day 18: From Pokhara, we drive back to Kathmandu
 
We catch a morning coach from Pokhara to Kathmandu. From Pokhara the drive takes approx 6-7 hours. This is a highly scenic drive through lush rural countryside via the main highway to Kathmandu. On reaching Kathmandu, your day is free to do what you would like to do best. Maybe you could go in for some last minute shopping to pick up some souvenirs for the loved ones at home, or maybe you could just chill with a few beers at your hotel. At eventide, we visit an upscale Nepalese restaurant for a delicious Nepalese supper to celebrate a trip well enjoyed. While savoring our meal, we will be entertained to a scintillating cultural dance performed by the local belles, we are going to enjoy this evening to the hilt. Overnight at your hotel
 
Day 19: Departure for that lovely place we call ‘home’ – Ciao Buddies!

Today is free to relax and do your own things; perhaps some last minute shopping or pen a few post cards to the loved ones at home, until your departure or to commence any additional trips or activities you may have booked. If you are departing, you’ll be transferred to the international airport in time for your return flight home. Meeting you has been a wonderful experience that Incentive Holidays will cherish for a long, long time; & on your way home, you’ll be thinking of a trip that will linger in your memories for a whole lifetime which we are sure will become fireside stories to be told to your loved ones on a cold winter night for the generations to come. Till we meet again one day…its bye for now.

Trip Information

Accommodation

A ‘Camping trek’ is a term used for sleeping in tents. The tents we provide are ‘Two men or couple domes’ or ‘A’ shaped. A foam mattress with insulation underneath is used for sleeping. Clients need to have their own sleeping bag. Bags or cloth packs are used as pillows. It’s a matter of choice, if you want, you bring your own ‘Air pillow’ and freak out anyways, and this is adventure in the wild…the rougher it gets the better.

We have a pool of hotels in Kathmandu under 3 Star categories which we provide to clients in connection with this program, unless it is mentioned otherwise or clients have a choice of their own. You can check on the description of such hotels through our website. Accommodation is never a problem, the choice exclusively yours.

Dining

At ‘Incentive Holidays’ – its zero tolerance on cutting of cost when it comes down to feeding our trekking guests, because we know how tough it is on the trails; we provide three tasty, bountiful and nutritious meals daily with a variety of local and Western dishes. To start the day, breakfast is ‘king size’ [the first meal of the day] consisting of a choice of porridge, muesli and cereals followed by omelet, fried or scrambled eggs with chapattis or bread. Lunch is generally a selection of salad, cooked vegetable dishes, pasta and traditional breads. 

After a lengthy gritty day on the trail, dinner is a hearty 3 course meal - soup, followed by a variety of vegetables, meat, rice and pasta dishes completed with a simple dessert. We use as much fresh produce as possible and special diets are regularly catered for. The local trek leaders are able to maintain very tight controls on health and hygiene in the kitchen with respect to general cleanliness and food preparation and also within the group with respect to personal hygiene. This has allowed us to maintain extremely high standards of health over many years of planning treks - and good health is vital to an enjoyable and successful trek and climb. All foods are well cooked and vegetables are treated by potassium permanganate or iodine. Boiled water is served for drinking. Antiseptic soaps and potassium or iodine treated water are provided for washing. Special dietary requirements can always be catered for. ‘Gluttony is a sin’ but there are no restrictions on the grub we serve to our guests on the mountains; we leave it up to our trekking guests who are the best judge of their own appetites.

Cost Inclusion / Exclusion

Cost Inclusion

• 3N Hotel accommodation on twin sharing basis at KTM on BB plan     
• 1N Hotel accommodation on twin sharing basis at PKR on BB plan                  
• 14N accommodation in a Normal Hotel /lodge/ home stay/ tented camps  during trekking 
• One English speaking guide 
• Porter (1Porter for 2Pax)
• 3 meals (Breakfast, Lunch & dinner) during Trekking 
• Farewell  Nepali cultural dinner during trekking 
• National park fees
• TIMS
• Airport pick up and drop 
• All ground transfer as per itinerary
• Domestic Air Fare ( Jomsom – Pokhara)
• PKR-KTM  By tourist coach or Micro bus
• KTM-Jagati ( Micro bus/ Coach / 4 Wheel)

Cost Exclusion

• International Air Fare
• Domestic Air Fare
• Entrance Fees
• Daily Meals (Lunch & Dinner) during Kathmandu
• Tips to Guide & Driver
• Bar Expense
• Telephone, Laundry and Internet
• Personnel Insurance
• Emergency Evacuation
• All other personal expenses
• Nepal visa fee

Popular Sightseeing places in Kathmandu:

• Kathmandu Durbar Square
• Bhaktapur Durbar Square
• Patan Durbar Square
• Pashupatinath Temple
• Boudhanath Stupa
• Swayambhunath Stupa

Half day sightseeing includes visit two of these places and full day sightseeing includes three of these places inside the ring-road of Kathmandu. Besides the above mentioned places, the charges will apply depending on the distance accordingly.

Travel Date

The best time to visit for a trip of this kind would be in the Spring and Autumn.  It is wonderful duringthis time of the year when an overall beauties of the landscapes found in these trips are so distinct & stunning, due to clear weather pattern & sunny blue skies. Our program could be changed to accommodate individual group choices and preferences in order to give you proper holidays that become signature ventures for a lifetime.