Hiking to the Himalayas

Nepal is a land of mountains, shaped by the beautiful geography and culture and traditions of its inhabitants. It is known for the Himalayan adventure, besides its awe-inspiring natural and cultural attractions. The Himalayas are the jewel of this country that reflects the beautiful mountain aura and provides the impeccable adventure that no other region in the world offers. Due to its mindblowing natural beauty, Nepal observes a lot of visitors and never fails to amaze them with absolute beauty - the authenticity that Nepal represents. 

Walking through the highlands of Nepal, one is struck by the contrast between a densely populated and bustling Kathmandu city and village life in the countryside. The Nepalese faith shapes both urban and rural architecture. It is hard to say who, or what beckons most to you. 

Nepal’s mountains can be daunting at first sight, but this massive range standing before you is like an insurmountable obstacle even as it eases your breath away with its magnificence. The Kathmandu Valley runs through the centre of this huge mountain range and is known as the mid-hills. Here the Mahabharat range rises gently to the north, while in the south, undulating hills extend as far as the eye can see, except in winter when they are cloaked in mist and snow. 

Hiking takes you past terraced fields, villages and hidden temples as it slowly climbs to higher altitudes. The open spaces seem endless as you pass through them on forested paths towards isolated monasteries, stupas and mountain valleys in Himalayan villages.

Hiking in the Himalayas is one of the best tour packages that is designed to facilitate the trekkers with the soft adventure amid the mountains. So, if you are willing to trek in the lower elevations of Nepal with the amazing natural and cultural mix, this tour fits you. The tour will take you to some of the most beautiful villages such as Changunarayan, Nagarkot, Ghandruk, and Lwang Ghalel. All of these places are culturally and naturally enriched and provide the finest trekking experience. Alongside the incredible village hospitality, you can explore the local lifestyle and the belongingness of locals to the earth. 

The tour encompasses amazing natural and cultural sites such as Nagarkot, Kathmandu and Pokhara. During the tour, you can explore a variety of landscapes, flora and fauna and some of the most stunning mountain vistas.

Trip Facts

The hiking to the Himalayas tour is curated to keep our travellers engaged with the natural beauty while engaging then with the cultural attractions of the various places. This also enables the visitors to explore communal and religious harmony while providing amazing exposure to the cultural diversity in the mountain villages. 

Hiking in the Mountain villages of Nepal

Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Nepal is a subtle land that knows how to be unnoticed amid a storm. There are towering peaks, deep valleys and winding rivers plunging down from remote heights. With experienced guides and horses to help you tackle some of the more challenging sections of the trail, these villages offer unparalleled trails for trekkers looking for something different from the traditional trekking routes. And while trekking excursions may be limited in number each year, the treasures and knowledge of the villages will last forever. Though all the places you will be visiting are part of the trekking route, you will be exploring the authenticity of the place during your short hiking. 

If you’re looking for a truly remote and breathtaking wildlife experience, then you should consider hiking in the villages of Nepal. You'll find it's easier to explore the lifestyle of people and other hikers because the trails are shorter,  but as a result, there is a more natural beauty. These villages are close enough to major towns that they have cellular and internet connections, so you won't be leaving without your smartphone or paper map nearby. And finally, these hikes offer both challenging days with steep climbs and flat surfaces along the trail.

Because the trails are shorter there is a higher chance of seeing some wildlife and flora and fauna along the way. If you're hiking in Nepal during migration season you'll have a better chance of spotting a wide array of birds. Besides exploring the birdlife, it is also an interesting way to inundate yourself in pristine landscape and talking with locals would provide you with insightful historical and cultural fundamentals that shaped the place. 

The way of life in these villages is simple, as are the distractions. You will meet locals, who can tell you tales of the gods and demons who have caused havoc on their hills throughout history. And the experience you get in the villages of Nepal is truly cultural. The lifestyle that is purely connected to mother earth and living standards that are far below the urbanity. By trekking in these villages, you will not only explore the beauty of the mountain land but also contribute to making the lives better for the village people of Nepal. 

Kathmandu 

Kathmandu is a city in Nepal, known as the cultural capital of the Himalayas and one of Asia's most cosmopolitan cities. Kathmandu is the gateway to other regions including Annapurna and Everest. The streets brim with street vendors selling colourful fabrics and trinkets along with delicious treats such as durum wheat biscuits called momo dumplings. Nepal’s rich culture, unique traditions and striking scenery will have you longing to return again and again.

Thousands of years old, Kathmandu is a place of ancient customs, religion and royal palaces. The city holds several attractions including the city's Durbar Square with temples that include the temple dedicated to Narayan, Kumari temple in the heart of Kathmandu which is home to a living goddess and sprawling Boudhanath. 

The most sacred Buddhist site in Nepal is Swayambunath, the Monkey Temple on a hill overlooking Kathmandu Valley. It is believed if you make a wish at this site it will be granted and monkeys will protect you from harm. The Pashupatinath temple is another major attraction that is sacred to Hindus and popular for its Shaivik religious theme. 

Changunarayan is a world heritage site in Kathmandu, known for its rich history and religious attributes. This place is one of the most beautiful places from where the greenery still prevails. The popular hiking route towards Nagarkot also begins from this place. 

Nagarkot

Nagarkot, situated at an elevation of 2175 M above sea level, overlooking the Kathmandu valley and neighbouring districts is one of the popular vantage points in Nepal. It offers a wonderful experience to visitors as it provides a leisure experience accompanied by a natural touch. Best known for the sunrise and sunset views, you can witness a wide range of stretched mountain panorama from this place. The Annapurna range, Manaslu range, Ganesh Himal range, Mahalangur range (Everest range), Numbur range, Langtang range, Jugal range, and Rolwaling range can be seen during the time with clear sky. Hiking to this place allows you to explore the fragmented villages, and cultural diversity and a quick escape near the dense urban settlement of Kathmandu valley. 

Pokhara

A city that is at once historic and tradition-rich yet modern and vibrant, Pokhara offers a unique blend of customs to suit the many travellers that pass through its vicinity. Set in the shadow of the beautiful majestic Mount Annapurna on the western edge of Kathmandu, this city offers visitors a sense of history even as it embraces their adventure. With its lush green valley sitting below lush green mountains, it makes for an indescribable place to visit and explore. With its lush green valleys, Pokhara is famous for its hospitality, and several festivals throughout the year offer ample time for visitors to interact with the locals.

Nepal’s second-largest city, Pokhara is a popular tourist destination because of its close proximity to the Annapurna mountain range and Trekking region, its boating options on Phewa Lake, and the scenic views of Machhapuchhare (also known as Fish Tail), one of the most sacred mountains in Hinduism. It lies at an elevation of 822 meters above sea level. 

There are many attractions in Pokhara that you can explore in your leisure time. Fewa Lake is the major attraction that provides an important account of the city’s vibrance. The World Peace Pagoda, overlooking the entire Pokhara valley is also an important attraction and a vantage point. The mountain ranges are spectacular from the World Peace Pagoda. 

Nayapul

Nayapul is a small roadside village about 40 Km away from Pokhara valley on the Baglung  Highway. It is a place from where several trek route begins. There are several tea stalls and small restaurants. The locals are hospitable and Machhapuchre Mountain can be seen from this place. The greenery surrounding the village is astonishing. This place is accessible via drive. 

Ghandruk

Ghandruk village (1,940 m), a Gurung settlement in Nepal, is a culturally built-up area. The settlement is situated between Lumle and Dangsing villages in the Kaski district. It is one of the most well-known overnight rest stops in the Annapurna region. Additionally, the community draws citizens from all across the nation. From Ghandruk, you can see the magnificent Annapurna Mountain ranges, including Machhapuchre and Himchuli.

Ghandruk lies in the mountains of western Nepal. It had been a trade hub for centuries and was one of the more developed Nepalese villages. This place is known for the Gurung lifestyle, culture and traditions. The stone-roofed houses, beautifully adorned with spectacular views, rural lifestyle and hospitality provide an amazing experience in this village. The Macchapuchre and Annapurna mountains are clearly visible from the Ghandruk village. 

Dhampus

Dhampus is a beautiful place beneath the shadow of the Annapurna Himalayan Range. The community is beautiful, and magnificent, and provides the most peaceful Himalayan atmosphere. Dhampus village is the ideal location for your overnight hike with the beautiful sunrise in the morning and the charm of a village visit. Dhampus (1650 m) is located to the north of the Pokhara valley and offers stunning views of the majestic mountains and golden rice terraces. A magnificent view of the mountain, wildlife, landscape, and breathtaking scenery can be enjoyed during the hike to this village. The village of Dhampus is a seasonal destination for birdwatching since it observes different classes of migrating birds.

Lwang  Ghalel

A developing tourist destination, Lwang Ghalel hamlet gives visitors a taste of genuine Nepali village life. A thriving Gurung population still maintains a very traditional way of life in the area. It is an amazing experience to explore this lovely village if you want to understand what it's like to live in a traditional Nepali village. Also, during the hike, you can get an opportunity to explore the pristine River, landscapes, beautiful scenery and the hospitality of local people.