Nepal - A Deep Off-Road Journey to the Annapurna Range - Barak's Trip - 11 Days

A journey to Nepal is not just a trip to East Asia. A journey in Nepal is an exploration of breathtaking landscapes, peaks of the world's highest mountains, a spiritual experience with magnificent Buddhist temples combined with the rich Hindu culture. Our young journey in Nepal is an experiential trip that moves between off-road vehicles for those who want to explore the famous trekking routes but in a more accessible and simpler way. Experience the beauty of trekking in a journey through off-road travel that turns the Nepal travel experience into an unforgettable life experience.

Important Note:

This journey is an example of a successfully executed trip organized by Aurora Journeys and can serve as a model for building a comprehensive route for independent travelers and organized tour groups.

Day 1 | Kathmandu

Upon arrival, transfer to our hotel in Kathmandu for a light dinner.

Day 2 | Kathmandu and its sites

This morning, we will explore the city of Kathmandu and its surroundings. In the morning, visit Durbar Square, the center of the ancient capital, surrounded by an impressive complex of temples, statues, and palaces. We will visit the fascinating square and hear the many stories of the Hindu deities that adorn the area. We will also dedicate time to the Kumari Temple, the residence of the living goddess. We will then proceed to the Kasthamandap Temple, a historic wooden structure, and then to the Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the "Monkey Temple," with its panoramic and picturesque square. After the tour, settle into our hotel and explore the main shopping street of the city, Garden of Dreams. Overnight and dinner in Kathmandu.

Day 3 | Kathmandu - Pokhara

This morning, we leave the capital Kathmandu and take a flight to Pokhara, a city situated on the banks of a stunning lake, with reflections of the Annapurna mountain range towering above. In Pokhara, where most of the inhabitants still hold onto the roots of the Hindu religion, we will embark on a serene boat ride on Lake Phewa and visit a cave formed by the seepage of the lake. We'll return to the town, considered by many as the backpacker capital of Nepal, and wander among the coffee shops and numerous stores. Overnight and dinner in Pokhara.

Day 4 | Pokhara - Towards the Himalayas - Tatopani

This morning, we will wake up to the stunning peaks of the Annapurna range and take in the views of the highest summits. Meeting local jeep drivers, we will travel north along rivers, waterfalls, local villages on cliff-top peaks, breathtaking viewpoints, stone-built houses that dot the landscape, and the views of the towering ridge. Towards the beginning of the ascent to the peaks of the range, we will connect to the long Kali Gandaki River, one of the longest and most significant rivers in Asia, which becomes a narrow and turbulent channel at this point. Around noon, we will reach the village from which we will begin the climb to the heights of the Annapurna. In the afternoon, we will arrive at the hot spring town of Tatopani, where we will relax in the warm springs located right on the riverbank. Overnight at a guesthouse in Tatopani.

Day 5 | Tatopani to Marpha

This morning, we will leave the hot spring town of Tatopani and continue our off-road journey along the narrow and stunning channel of the Kali Gandaki River. We pass through villages and towns, gradually ascending to the heart of the Annapurna range. Along the way, we admire the picturesque stops adorned with monasteries and mountain peaks that reach over 8,000 meters above sea level—the highest point possible. From here, we proceed on a special trekking route through the magnificent Dana waterfalls and descend to the beautiful Tibetan village of Marpha. The village is characterized by whitewashed walls and slate roofs. Overnight and dinner in Marpha.

Day 6 | Marpha to Titi Lake to Jomsom

A splendid day dedicated entirely to easy hikes amidst the enchanting landscapes of the Himalayan mountain range. In the morning, we cross the river along which we traveled in our jeeps in recent days and begin climbing the slopes of the majestic Nilgiri range, suspended above us and entirely adorned in white due to the glaciers flowing from its summit. We continue on a walking route to Titi Lake, a small lake nestled in a narrow valley. From the lake, we embark on a trek to an authentic village where we spend the night. Overnight and dinner in Jomsom.

Day 7 | Jomsom and its surroundings

One of the most beautiful days of our journey in Nepal. This morning, we will ascend to the heights of the ridge, cross the long river again, and reach the village of Muktinath. Muktinath, a picturesque Tibetan village, is situated at an altitude of 3,760 meters above sea level, providing breathtaking views of the highest peaks in the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, along with the magnificent glaciers flowing from the mountaintops. Before the opening of the path leading to the village, Muktinath was one of the most remote and secluded areas in Nepal, allowing the village to preserve its unique charm. We explore the village and enter the special monastery where local monks bathe in icy water ponds. Those feeling adventurous might want to try it themselves. Overnight and dinner in Jomsom.

Day 8 | Jomsom to Flight to Pokhara

This morning, we bid farewell to Jomsom and the Annapurna range, taking a flight, weather permitting, to Pokhara, where our journey began. Upon landing, we embark on another tour of the town, walking into a cave where an impressive waterfall emerges from the stone. We ascend to the Peace Stupa, offering a panoramic view of the region and Lake Phewa. Those interested can trek down a spectacular trail to the lake and boat back to the town, while others can return to the bustling city of Pokhara to explore its shops, coffee houses, and restaurants. Overnight and dinner in Pokhara.

Day 9 | Pokhara to Trisuli to Kathmandu

This morning, we will leave the city of Pokhara and embark on the long road leading to Kathmandu. On our way south, we stop at one of the most beautiful and fascinating trekking areas in Nepal: Manakamana Temple. Pilgrims ascend daily to offer sacrifices via the world's only cable car designed for foot passengers, with separate cabins for the carriage of livestock brought to the site for sacrifice. From here, we continue to the Trisuli River, where we engage in an exhilarating rafting experience. By late evening, we reach Kathmandu for overnight and dinner.

Day 10 | Kathmandu Valley - Bhaktapur

This morning, we set out for Bhaktapur, adjacent to Kathmandu, which was the ruling center of Nepal from the 14th to the 16th century. We stroll through its ancient streets with wooden-carved windows and explore the ornate temples, some of them erotic in nature. We embark on a walking tour through the hills of the region, passing through fields and villages to the charming Pashupatinath Temple, the most significant Hindu temple in Nepal. Although the central part of the temple is closed to tourists, we can explore other areas and witness the religious ceremonies taking place, including occasional cremations. We conclude with a visit to the sacred stop for Tibetan Buddhists in Bodhnath and rotate the stupa the required number of times. In the afternoon, we will return to Kathmandu for a free stroll in the tourist center of Thamel. Overnight and dinner in Kathmandu.

Day 11 | Kathmandu 

In the morning, we take advantage of our last moments in Kathmandu—transferring to the airport for a flight.