Annapurna Heritage Trail

Welcome to Kathmandu, the gateway to the Himalayas. Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), the journey begins with ease. For those who have already arranged their visa, it’s a smooth process; if not, the on-arrival visa service is convenient and efficient. 

Your arrival is greeted with the sweet sounds of traditional Nepali music, an immediate sign that this will be no ordinary adventure. Your personal representative will meet you at the airport and guide you through the bustling streets of your hotel. After a restful afternoon, prepare to meet your Tour Expert for a welcome dinner, where you'll be introduced to the details of your upcoming journey. Expect to hear about the special experiences and moments we have planned for you, crafted to make this trek unlike any other. 

Explore the second day in Kathmandu in Bhaktapur, an ancient medieval town. Go for a short family visit to explore the culture. Visit the 55-windowed palace, the 5-storeyed Nyatapol Temple, and more. Later, visit an artisan at Pottery Square and get your hands muddy with the clay and learn about local pottery making.

Carry the pottery you made safely and stroll back by tasting the Ju: Ju Dhau (King Curd) in the streets of Bhaktapur.

Board a scenic 25-minute flight to Pokhara, where you’ll get aerial views of hills, rivers, and scattered villages along the way. 

Upon landing in Pokhara, a private vehicle takes you on a two-hour drive to Dhawa, passing through lush hills, traditional villages, and terraced farmlands. At Dhawa, begin a gentle two-hour trek to Birethanti, walking alongside the Modi Khola river, with occasional glimpses of dense forests and suspension bridges along the way. 

Arrive in Birethanti, a riverside village surrounded by greenery. 

Wake up to the soothing sound of the Modi Khola river flowing nearby. After a hearty breakfast at Sanctuary Lodge, set off on today’s trek, which takes you through a secluded forested trail, passing small hamlets and terraced farmlands. 

The path gradually ascends, offering glimpses of locals carrying bundles of grass for their cattle or collecting firewood for the day. Occasionally, you will cross a short stretch of dirt road, walking for about 10 minutes before rejoining the main trail. 

As you climb higher, the scenery changes—dense forests of oak and rhododendron provide shade, while open sections reveal views of rolling hills and scattered villages in the distance. The final stretch includes a gentle climb through stone-paved steps, leading to the beautiful Gurung village of Ghandruk.

Spend the evening soaking in the tranquillity of the mountains, watching the sunset cast golden hues over the peaks.  

Additionally, enjoy a cultural performance by the Mothers’ Community of Ghandruk. This is a part of our giving back to the community philanthropy, in which the aid that we provide to the organisation helps in building paved roads to Ghandruk. 

Wake up to a majestic sunrise over Mount Annapurna, as golden light touches the peaks. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in the garden of Himalaya Lodge, with Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre standing tall in front of you. 

Before setting off, take a short 10-minute downhill walk to the heart of Ghandruk village. Explore the Gurung Museum, where traditional artefacts, tools, and attire showcase the rich heritage of the Gurung people. Afterwards, visit a local homestay, where you will be welcomed with a warm cup of traditional Nepali chiya (milk tea), offering a chance to chat with the locals and experience their warm hospitality. 

From Ghandruk, begin the easy 2–3-hour trek to Landruk. The trail starts with a gradual descent through stone-paved paths, winding through terraced fields and small farmhouses. Along the way, you will see locals carrying grass for their cattle or collecting firewood, children playing in the courtyards, and villagers going about their daily chores. 

As you descend, the mountains remain in constant view, with Machhapuchhre’s sharp peak standing as a striking presence. After reaching the suspension bridge over the Modi Khola, cross to the other side and begin a short, gentle uphill walk to Landruk village. 

Landruk offers a quieter atmosphere than Ghandruk, with wide-open views of the Annapurna range.

Wake up to a tranquil morning in Landruk, with Mount Annapurna bathed in golden light. Enjoy breakfast in the lodge’s garden, taking in the fresh mountain air before setting off. 

The trek to Majhgaon is short and pleasant, passing through rhododendron forests, terraced fields, and scattered villages. Along the way, see locals carrying firewood, leading cattle, or harvesting crops. At times, the trail merges with a dirt road for a few minutes, but it soon returns to the quieter, scenic paths. Throughout the walk, Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli remain visible, creating a stunning backdrop. 

Arriving in Majhgaon, you will notice a local school and a public health care centre, giving insight into the self-sufficient village lifestyle. The school serves as a gathering place for children from nearby settlements, while the health centre provides basic medical support for villagers living far from city hospitals. These small yet essential institutions highlight the strong sense of community and resilience in the Himalayas.

After a peaceful morning in Majhgaon, you will bid farewell to the quiet village and begin your journey back to the lively city of Pokhara. The drive takes around 1.5 hours, descending through terraced hills and rural settlements with views of the Annapurna foothills unfolding along the way.

Upon arrival in Pokhara, enjoy a relaxed lunch before heading uphill to visit the World Peace Pagoda. Sitting high above the city, this white-domed stupa offers a tranquil space to reflect and take in panoramic views of Lake Fewa, Pokhara Valley, and the Annapurna range, including the iconic Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain), weather permitting.

In the evening, return to the lakeside for a peaceful boating experience on Lake Fewa. As the sun sets, the water reflects the warm glow of the hills, and the Tal Barahi Temple, sitting on an island in the lake, becomes a serene silhouette.

After breakfast in Pokhara, you will take a scenic flight back to Kathmandu, offering one last aerial glimpse of the Himalayas. Upon arrival, you’ll head to the beautiful city of Patan, known for its fine art, traditional architecture, and timeless atmosphere.

Spend your afternoon exploring the historic Patan Durbar Square, where intricately carved temples, palace courtyards, and ancient monuments tell stories of a rich past. A special meeting is arranged with a former Kumari, Nepal’s Living Goddess, where you’ll have the rare opportunity to hear her personal story and meet her family—a cultural exchange few travellers experience.

As the day winds down, gather for a fine farewell dinner at a carefully selected restaurant, where a blend of Nepali flavours and elegant ambience set the tone for reflection and celebration.

On your final day in Nepal, you’ll be escorted to the airport for your flight home. While the journey ends, the memories of the Annapurna region, the incredible landscapes, and the genuine hospitality of the locals will stay with you long after you’ve returned home. The Himalayas will always be there, waiting for your next adventure.