Embark on Himalayan Ecstasy's Nepal Debut Trip for the ultimate Nepali experience. This package blends the rewarding Poon Hill Trek with a cultural tour of Kathmandu Valley and a visit to Bandipur's idyllic Newar settlement. Adding to the excitement, you'll enjoy paragliding in Pokhara and white-water rafting on the Marshyangdi River, culminating in a tranquil jungle safari at Chitwan National Park.
The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is a moderate hike that winds through vibrant rhododendron forests and picturesque mountain villages. With its highest point at just 3,210m, there is virtually no risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). The main highlight of this section is the vantage point of Poon Hill itself, which offers spectacular sunrise views with a panoramic backdrop of the Himalayas.
Your trek begins with a 3.5-hour drive to Ulleri, passing through small rural villages, beautiful rhododendron forests, terraced fields, and lush green landscapes. From Ulleri, you then ascend a steep trail to Ghorepani before hiking further to the viewpoint of Poon Hill (3,210m). As the sun rises over the Annapurna (8,091m) and Dhaulagiri (8,167m) massifs, along with a maze of other peaks, the Himalayas are bathed in a brilliant orange glow, creating a beautiful contrast with their unexposed flanks. Finally, you will retrace your steps back to Pokhara.
The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is a very popular destination due to its accessibility and relatively short duration. The lodges along the route are notably comfortable compared to other trekking destinations, making the Poon Hill trek particularly suitable for families.
After your trek, you'll embark on yet another adventure: a paragliding flight over Phewa Lake in Pokhara. Your flight launches from Sarangkot and ascends into the sky, treating you to breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna range, the tranquil lake shimmering below, and the vibrant Pokhara valley.
Bidding farewell to Pokhara, you'll then relax in the quaint town of Bandipur, where you can immerse yourself in traditional Newari culture - exploring its arts, savoring its food, and experiencing local festivities.
The Newars, originally indigenous inhabitants of the Kathmandu Valley (including Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan), were encouraged to migrate to different parts of Nepal during the Shah kings' rule. Some Newar groups from Bhaktapur, notably artisans and businessmen, settled in Bandipur and flourished, contributing to its unique heritage.
Before heading to Chitwan National Park from Bandipur for three days of exciting jungle activities, you'll experience another classic Nepali adventure: a one-day white-water rafting excursion on the Marshyangdi River. This rafting experience is truly an exhilarating highlight.
In Chitwan, you'll enjoy a relaxed yet insightful adventure, including an elephant jungle safari, a visit to an elephant breeding center, canoeing on gharial-inhabited waters, bird watching, and a cultural tour of a local village.
Himalayan Ecstasy Nepal invites you on the best 13-day family-friendly adventure for first time visitors to Nepal. Enjoy a moderate hike with a maximum elevation of 3,210m, cultural tours, jungle safari tour, and extreme adventure in Nepal.
The following are the list of services, also defined in the itinerary, included in the package cost for the Nepal Debut Trip:
We also offer the shorter Ghorepani and Poon Hill Trek only. Please email us for more details.
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek with Bandipur and Chitwan Tour; a 13-day journey, is meticulously crafted to offer you the very best of Nepal, combining accessible Himalayan trekking with enriching cultural immersion, thrilling adventures, and fascinating wildlife encounters. It's an ideal choice for first-time visitors to Nepal and families looking for a diverse and memorable experience without extreme high-altitude challenges.
Trip Overview: This multi-activity tour takes you from the historical wonders of Kathmandu to the serene hills of the Annapurna region for an enjoyable trek. You'll then experience the adventure hub of Pokhara, the cultural charm of Bandipur, and finally, the rich biodiversity of Chitwan National Park.
Best Time to Travel: The most favorable seasons for this tour are Spring (March-May), offering pleasant temperatures and blooming rhododendrons on the trek, and Autumn (September-November), known for clear skies and stable weather, providing excellent mountain views. These periods ensure the best conditions for all included activities.
Accommodation: You'll enjoy a blend of comfortable accommodations:
Meals: Most meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) are provided during your trek and safari activities as per the itinerary. You'll savor delicious Nepali cuisine, known for its hearty and nutritious qualities. While a wide selection of Western dishes might be limited in remote areas, vegetarian options are always fresh and highly recommended.
Difficulty & Physical Preparation: The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is classified as a moderate hike. With its highest point at just 3,210 meters (10,531 feet), there is virtually no risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), making it accessible for most fitness levels. The trail winds through picturesque villages and rhododendron forests, involving daily walking that is manageable with a basic level of fitness. The adventure activities (paragliding, rafting) require general good health and an adventurous spirit. No prior mountaineering or technical skills are required for any part of this trip.
Key Highlights:
What to Pack: Given the diversity of activities, your packing list will include items for moderate trekking (comfortable hiking boots, layered clothing), cultural sightseeing (modest attire), adventure sports (quick-drying clothes), and safari (light, breathable, neutral-colored clothing). A detailed packing list will be provided, but essentials include comfortable footwear, layers for varying temperatures, sun protection, and personal hygiene items.
Safety: Your safety is paramount. The tour is led by experienced guides who are trained in wilderness first aid. Accommodations are carefully selected for cleanliness and safety. For adventure activities, qualified and certified operators are utilized.
RELEASE AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK:
You should be content and willing to cope with the situations, conditions, and circumstances made clear to you by subsidiaries, associates, agents, and employees of Himalayan Ecstasy (H.E) Nepal. You should recognize and agree that the realities made clear in this website the inherent characteristics of adventure travel, and not least the matters of flexibility, adaptability, practical personal contribution to the lifestyle, and the fact that not all situations, conditions, or circumstances encountered on the trip are identical to those pre-existing and prevailing at the time of booking.
You should also recognize that you are undertaking a journey in a remote area and that there is a significant amount of personal risk that sometimes becomes a reality. You should fully understand the relative remoteness, the rough travel, weather conditions, landslides, the relatively limited medical services, as well as the greater potential dangers, which you have chosen, on your own accord, to undertake a journey of this nature. You should fully recognize "H.E Nepal" and the representatives of H.E Nepal in respect to the journey that you have applied to join.
Himalayan Ecstasy Nepal is not responsible for changes made to the program due to the following circumstances:
Embarking on a multi-activity journey through Nepal demands a versatile and thoughtfully packed gear list. The right equipment is crucial for your comfort, safety, and enjoyment across diverse landscapes – from the verdant trails of the Annapurna foothills and the serene wildlife of the Terai plains, to the thrilling adventures of Pokhara. This curated guide ensures you are well-prepared for varying climates, activities, and altitudes, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in every unique experience Nepal has to offer.
Personal First Aid Kit:
Nepal Debut Trip is a 13-day package offers a comprehensive taste of Nepal, combining a moderate Himalayan trek (Poon Hill) with cultural sightseeing in Kathmandu and Bandipur, thrilling adventure sports in Pokhara, and a wildlife safari in Chitwan National Park.
The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is a moderate hike. It does not involve technical climbing and, with its highest point at 3,210m, has virtually no risk of altitude sickness (AMS). It's suitable for families of all age groups as their first trek in Nepal.
Yes, absolutely! Due to the moderate difficulty of the Poon Hill trek, comfortable lodges, and the wide variety of engaging activities like paragliding (age/weight restrictions apply), rafting (grade 2-3), and jungle safaris, this trip is highly suitable for families with children who have a reasonable level of stamina and an adventurous spirit. We recommend discussing specific age groups with us for tailored advice.
The best times are during Spring (March to May) for pleasant weather and rhododendron blooms, and Autumn (September to November) for clear skies and excellent mountain views. But summer (vibrant green and lush forests and native flowering trees and shrubs in full blossom) and winter (less people but equally stunning) is also recommended.
You will stay in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara, comfortable local lodges/teahouses during the Poon Hill trek, and a safari camp/lodge in Chitwan National Park.
Most meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) are included during your trek and Chitwan safari, as specified in the itinerary, and breakfast is included in your hotel at Kathmandu and Pokhara. You'll enjoy hearty Nepali cuisine, with vegetarian options always available. Beverages and any extra snacks are usually at your own expense.
The Nepal Debut Trip includes thrilling paragliding over Phewa Lake in Pokhara and an exhilarating white-water rafting excursion on the Marshyangdi River.
In Chitwan, you'll enjoy 3 days of exciting jungle activities, which typically include a jungle safari (e.g., jeep safari), a visit to an elephant breeding center, river canoeing (often on the Rapti River to spot gharials and birds), and a cultural tour of a local Tharu village.
You'll need a versatile packing list. This includes comfortable hiking boots and layered clothing for the trek, modest attire for cultural sites, quick-drying clothes for rafting, and light, breathable, neutral-colored clothing for the safari. A detailed packing list will be provided upon booking.
Yes, a visa is required for Nepal and can typically be obtained upon arrival at Kathmandu airport. Travel and medical insurance (covering all activities) is highly recommended and usually mandatory for your safety and peace of mind.
Your safety is paramount. All treks and activities are led by experienced, first-aid trained guides. Reputable and certified operators are used for adventure activities like paragliding and rafting. Accommodations are carefully selected for cleanliness and safety.
For elderly participants in good health with reasonable mobility, this trip can be a wonderful experience. The Poon Hill trek is moderate, and daily walking distances can be managed at a comfortable pace. The diverse activities outside the trek (cultural tours, Bandipur exploration, Chitwan safari) are generally less physically demanding. We encourage elderly participants or those with specific health concerns to consult their doctor and discuss their individual capabilities with us before booking.
Welcome to Nepal! Settle in and prepare for your adventure.
Depending on how you plan to arrive at Kathmandu, we will arrange for you to rendezvous at your hotel in Thamel. In most cases, you will arrive at Kathmandu via Tribhuvan International Airport where you will meet your guide.
In the evening, you will join for a program briefing with your group members. In case you arrive late at night, you will meet your group members next day at breakfast during which you will also be briefed about your program.
Your second day in Nepal begins with a nourishing breakfast at your hotel, fueling you for an immersive cultural journey. Between 08:00 and 08:30 AM, your dedicated guide will meet you, and you'll embark on a short, scenic 20-minute drive to the revered Pashupatinath Temple. This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most sacred Hindu temples in Nepal, a vibrant spiritual hub along the banks of the Bagmati River.
For about an hour, you'll be enveloped in a profound atmosphere of devotion and ancient rituals. Observe Hindu devotees, colourful sadhus, and the poignant cremation ceremonies performed on the ghats, offering a unique insight into the circle of life and death as per Hindu traditions. Your guide will provide explanations about the temple's intricate pagoda-style architecture and the spiritual significance of the activities unfolding around you, allowing you to respectfully witness this deeply moving site.
You’ll then embark on a short drive to Boudhanath Stupa, another UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest stupas in the world. Here, you'll step into the heart of Nepal's Tibetan Buddhist community. The colossal white dome, adorned with the watchful eyes of the Buddha and fluttering prayer flags, creates an undeniably serene and powerful ambiance.
After this rich morning of cultural exploration, you'll return to the bustling streets of Thamel for a well-deserved lunch. The late afternoon marks a pivotal moment as you'll meet your experienced trek guide for the highly anticipated Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek with Bandipir and Chitwan Tour. This is your opportunity to go over every detail of your upcoming adventure, ensuring you are fully prepared. You'll conduct a thorough gear check, reviewing your packing list and identifying any missing items. Thamel boasts numerous gear shops where you can easily purchase or hire any necessary equipment. This session is also the perfect time to ask any last-minute questions, clarify expectations, and ensure you feel confident and ready to embark on your epic Himalayan journey.
Prepare for an exhilarating aerial prelude to your Poon Hill trek as you take flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara. This isn't merely a transfer; it's a short, incredibly scenic journey that dramatically unveils the grandeur of the Himalayas and sets the stage for your trekking adventure.
This domestic flight typically lasts a mere 25 to 30 minutes, yet it packs a punch of breathtaking beauty. As your plane ascends from Kathmandu, you're immediately treated to panoramic views – a thrilling preview of the landscapes you're about to explore. On the right side of the aircraft, keep a keen eye out for an awe-inspiring parade of snow-capped Himalayan giants. You'll witness the majestic Annapurna range, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and the Langtang range, often appearing incredibly close and clear. Below, the terrain swiftly transforms, revealing a patchwork of lush green hills, terraced farmlands, winding river valleys, and scattered rural villages. The entire flight offers a unique bird's-eye perspective of Nepal's diverse geography, providing a thrilling sense of scale and beauty as you transition from the bustling capital to the serene lakeside city of Pokhara – your vibrant launchpad into the heart of the Annapurna region and the renowned Poon Hill trek!
Today, your Ghorepani Poon Hill adventure truly kicks off as you depart from the serene lakeside city of Pokhara. Your journey begins with a scenic private transfer to Ulleri. The drive itself is a delightful transition, winding through small, charming rural villages, past beautifully terraced fields, and amidst lush green landscapes and vibrant rhododendron forests, offering your first glimpses of Nepal's rural heartland.
Upon reaching Ulleri, a picturesque village nestled into the hillside, you'll prepare to begin your trek. The path from Ulleri is famous for its steep ascent, often characterized by countless stone steps that wind their way upwards through dense rhododendron forests. This initial segment of your hike is physically demanding but incredibly rewarding, as you immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Annapurna foothills. You'll gain significant elevation, pushing deeper into the tranquil trekking trails. Your day of trekking culminates upon arrival at Banthati (2,210 m), a small and welcoming settlement that offers a peaceful overnight stop after your inaugural trek segment.
From Banthati, your Ghorepani Poon Hill trek continues its ascent, leading you deeper into the enchanting landscapes of the Annapurna region towards the bustling hub of Ghorepani.
The trail predominantly winds its way through magnificent, dense rhododendron and oak forests. In spring, these woodlands burst into vibrant colors, creating a truly magical atmosphere. While the path involves a continuous uphill trek, it's generally a more gradual climb than your initial ascent to Banthati, offering a sustained but manageable effort. You'll pass smaller hamlets and isolated teahouses, providing brief resting points along the way. Although the dense foliage may intermittently obscure direct panoramas, you'll catch tantalizing glimpses of towering peaks like Annapurna South and Himchuli through the trees, constantly reminding you of the majestic giants surrounding you.
As you near Ghorepani, you'll feel the growing anticipation of reaching this significant trekking milestone. Your journey culminates upon arrival at Ghorepani (approximately 2,800 m), a vibrant village bustling with trekkers. Its numerous lodges offer a warm welcome, and its strategic location provides a clear sign that you are now perfectly poised for the iconic Poon Hill sunrise experience tomorrow, promising the grandest views of all.
The magic of your Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek truly culminates this morning with your essential pre-dawn hike to Poon Hill (3,210 m). Leaving Ghorepani in the cool, crisp darkness, the trail leads you steadily upwards through the silent rhododendron forest, guided by the beams of headlamps and the growing anticipation.
As you reach the summit of Poon Hill, find your vantage point and witness the sky begin its grand transformation. With the first light, a truly unparalleled 360-degree panorama of the Himalayas unveils itself. To your west, the colossal Dhaulagiri range dominates, with Dhaulagiri I (8,167m) piercing the dawn sky. Stretching across the north and northeast, the mighty Annapurna range reveals itself in all its glory, including the imposing Annapurna South and Hiunchuli nearby, the iconic Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Peak) with its distinct summit, and further peaks like Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna II, Annapurna III, and Annapurna IV. On clear days, you may even spot Nilgiri South and North to the northwest, and the distant Manaslu range far to the east. As the sun rises, these snow-capped giants are bathed in a brilliant orange and golden glow, creating an unforgettable spectacle of light and shadow that captures the very essence of the Himalayas.
After soaking in this awe-inspiring sunrise and capturing indelible memories, you'll descend back to Ghorepani for a well-deserved breakfast. Following your meal, your trek continues with a descent towards Nangethathi. The trail winds through familiar dense rhododendron and oak forests, providing a peaceful backtrack and continued immersion in the serene mountain environment.
From Nangethathi, your Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek continues its journey back towards Pokhara. This segment marks your final day of trekking, a predominantly downhill path that allows you to retrace familiar steps through the enchanting Annapurna foothills.
You backtrack on the now descending trail taking in the intermittently obscure direct panoramic views though the dense canopy as you complete this final stretch of your hike.
Upon reaching Ulleri, your trekking journey ends. From here, you'll return to Pokhara, and spend the rest of the day at leisure.
After the rewarding efforts of your trek, prepare for a completely different kind of adventure as you take to the skies of Pokhara. Your paragliding experience promises an exhilarating perspective and an unforgettable thrill.
The adventure typically begins with a short drive to Sarangkot, the famous launch point perched high above Pokhara Valley. Here, after a briefing from your certified tandem pilot, you’ll take a few running steps and suddenly, you'll be airborne! You'll ascend gracefully into the sky, effortlessly soaring like a bird. Your flight over Phewa Lake treats you to breathtaking panoramic views of the entire Annapurna range stretching majestically before you, the tranquil lake shimmering below, and the vibrant Pokhara valley unfolding beneath your feet.
This incredible aerial journey usually lasts around 20-30 minutes, depending on thermal conditions, offering an unparalleled sense of freedom and a unique vantage point of Nepal's stunning landscapes. As you gently descend for a soft landing near the lakeside, you’ll carry with you the exhilarating sensation of flight and memories of truly spectacular mountain vistas from above.
Leaving behind the adventurous spirit of Pokhara, your journey continues with a comfortable private transfer to the scenic town of Bandipur, through Nepal's verdant hills and rural landscapes.
Upon your arrival in Bandipur, you'll be charmed by its unique ambiance. Known as an idyllic Newar settlement, Bandipur feels like a step back in time, preserving its traditional architecture and vibrant cultural heritage. With no guide accompanying you within the town, the remainder of your day is entirely at your leisure to explore Bandipur by yourself. This offers you the freedom to wander its historic cobblestone streets at your own pace, admire its intricate Newari arts and crafts, savor local delicacies, and perhaps even experience local festivities firsthand. Immerse yourself in the tranquility and timeless beauty of this quaint town, discovering its hidden gems independently.
Your unforgettable Nepali adventure draws to a close with your return to the capital. The morning begins with a convenient flight from Chitwan (Bharatpur Airport) back to Kathmandu. This swift aerial journey, typically lasting around 20 minutes, offers a final, unique perspective, as the lush jungle landscapes of the Terai give way to the rolling hills and the expanding urban sprawl of the Kathmandu Valley below.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you'll be transferred to your hotel. The afternoon is dedicated to a fascinating guided tour of two more iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites, offering a profound dip back into Nepal's rich history and spirituality.
First, you'll visit Swayambhunath Stupa, often known as the "Monkey Temple." Perched atop a hill, this ancient stupa offers not only spiritual tranquility but also panoramic views of the entire Kathmandu Valley. Witness devotees circumambulating the stupa, spinning prayer wheels, and observing the resident monkeys, which add a unique charm to this sacred site.
Next, your guide will lead you to Patan Durbar Square, the ancient royal palace complex of Patan city. Here, you'll step into a living museum of intricate Newar architecture, stunning temples, and exquisite carvings that adorn every corner. Explore the historic palaces, visit the Golden Temple, and absorb the vibrant atmosphere of this culturally rich square, marveling at the craftsmanship of centuries past. This final immersion into Kathmandu's heritage provides a perfect reflection on the diverse adventures you've experienced.
Departure from Kathmandu, carrying unforgettable memories of your Nepal adventure.
Today marks the end of your incredible Nepal Debut Trip. You will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your international departure, carrying with you unforgettable memories of Nepal's stunning landscapes and warm hospitality.
Sujan and his team are doing great job! First of all, it’s the energy which come from these people - positive, always ready to help, understanding your needs. Our group had amazing experience in rafting which was safe, adventurous and...