850 ReviewsWellness Spa,
Ocean Adventures,
Secluded Luxury
Depart your home country for your flight to Nepal.
Most suited for
Couples, Solos
Ideal time to visit
March - November
Ideal for first-time visitors, this trip revels in the diversity of Nepal and gives you a proper feel for the country.
From exploring her culturally rich capital and her majestic mountains, to coming face-to-face with wondrous wildlife and being invited into the homes of warm people, you’ll experience it all while travelling overland and giving back to the communities you visit.
Nepal, the ETG Way: Iconic Sights with a Twist
As with all our holidays, this itinerary is just a starting point. We will create a bespoke package which will be completely unique for you.
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Day 1
Your adventure begins
Days 2 - 3
Kathmandu
Touch down in Nepal and meet your guide who will drive you to your hotel. Spend 3 days easing in and admiring the city’s intricate architecture, holy Hindu temples and sacred Buddhist stupas like Swayambhunath.
Wander her bazaars and crafts markets, stopping off at whichever stalls catch your eye, and enjoy some more unusual experiences that’ll immerse you in the history and culture of Nepal (from trying your hand at some pottery in Thimi to helping whip up traditional dishes like Nepali Dal, Bhat, or Tarkari).
Days 5 - 7
Chitwan National Park
On day 5, your driver will whisk you off to Chitwan National Park – a journey of around five hours. Have your binoculars handy to scan your surroundings for wonderful wildlife, from hundreds of birds to the elusive one-horned rhinos. You might catch a glimpse of sloth bears, and playful monkeys and if you’re particularly lucky, there’s a small chance of a Bengal tiger sighting.
Spend another day on the Narayani River travelling from Meghauli to Amaltari by boat, keeping an eye out for creatures great and small as you glide through serene landscapes. Your destination is the Barauli Community Homestay, where the warm-hearted Tharu villagers will welcome you with a delicious, home-cooked lunch.
Days 8 - 9
Pokhara and Hemjakot
On Day 8, it’s time to travel to the lovely ‘lake city’ of Pokhara. After a good night’s sleep, you’ll have the chance to explore your spectacular surroundings. Fuel up for your excursions by digging into lunch at a hospitality school – where you’ll actively be helping the younger generation train for their careers in this industry.
Head off on a 3-hour hike through the Himalayan hills to the World Peace Pagoda. This hillside monument is in an incredibly scenic spot overlooking the Phewa Lake with the snow-capped mountains scraping the sky. During your stay, you’ll go boating and cross the lake – hopping off to visit a pagoda on a small island on the way – and arrive in time to witness the atmospheric Hindu ritual of Aarti. It’s mesmerising to witness this enlightening evening ritual, where devotees express their gratitude and welcome happiness by pressing lit wicks against their foreheads.
Day 10
Hemjakot Community Homestay Experience
Be an early bird and head out of town to see the sun rise at Sarangkot. On a clear day, the views are just staggering – with the morning light bathing Pokhara lake in a golden glow and dancing through the multi-layered Annapurna mountain range.
Then, it’s on to Hemjakot Homestay. Here, the villagers of this farming community will take you under their wing and you’ll have a unique opportunity to learn about their traditional way of life. Even if cooking isn’t your forte, you’ll love preparing a meal with your hosts and dining all together as it’s great fun.
Days 11 - 13
Annapurna Trekking
Today, you’ll head to Lumle to begin your exciting Annapurna trek. Spend the next 4 days hiking through the diverse and dazzling mountains with a private guide and porter on hand.
Trekking in the Annapurna’s can be fine-tuned to your own fitness and interests. On this route, you’ll pass through river valleys, subtropical forests, terraced farmlands and picturesque villages, with glorious alpine views of Mt. Annapurna and Mt. Machhapuchhre… trust us, these mighty mountains will stop you in your tracks.
Throughout this immersive adventure, you’ll have the chance to interact with different rural communities and rest overnight at simple but comfortable mountain lodges (the higher you go, the more basic they get – but you’ll be rewarded by sweeping views and the most spectacular sunrises and sunsets you’re likely to see in the Himalayas).
You’ll be replaying the magic in your head forevermore.
Day 14
Summit River Lodge
After finishing the final leg of your awe-inspiring Annapurna trek, you’ll meet your driver who will take you to Summit River Lodge in Kurintar. This spot sits between Pokhara and Kathmandu, making it a great place to break up your journey from A to B.
Relax at this rustic retreat, unwinding by the pool and dining at the homely restaurant, before drifting off to sleep.
Day 16
Patan (Kathmandu)
After breakfast, hop in the car and continue on to Kathmandu. End your memorable holiday by exploring a different side of the capital city, taking in the cultural richness of Patan. Enjoy a special meal in your heritage hotel to toast and reflect back on your holiday.
Day 17
Fly home
Wave goodbye to Nepal and take your flight back home.
Experience in Nepal
Our itinerary was stimulating and varied. It coincided with the festival of Tihaa or Diwali and therefore allowed us to experience a special family time of year. Our guide, Anup, was charming and knowledgeable. He invited us to join his family for their special Diwali celebrations ,which was such a memorable experience and also a privilege. Trekking in the Annapurna foothills was a significant part of our two week visit. The chance to trek from Lodge to Lodge, and to see the village way of life was fascinating. We would thoroughly recommend ETG for their attention to detail in creating a perfect holiday.
Bob Williams
Excellent
850 Reviews
What’s included:
With ETG, what’s included goes well beyond the basics. From the moment your trip begins to your final farewell, the essentials are already taken care of, leaving you free to immerse, explore and enjoy without the hassle of hidden extras.
Here’s what comes as standard in all of our holidays:
All flights (unless you’ve booked your own!)
Expert guides and drivers
All accommodation
Many meals and snacks
Immersive experiences throughout
All regional transfers
Tips
24/7 In-Country support
Personal travel consultant throughout
Pricing:
As every holiday is bespoke, prices vary depending on destination, flights, hotel choices, inclusions and travel dates. We aim to include as much as possible upfront, so you know exactly where you are. As an approximate guide:
Bespoke Holidays £4,500 - £8,500pp
Bespoke Luxury Holidays £8,500 - £14,500pp
Bespoke Family Holidays from £4,000 - £7,500pp
Meet Our Nepal Experts
Sara has a deep love for Nepal’s mix of mountains, culture, and calm. She knows how to craft trips that balance adventure with moments of pure stillness and charm.
“Nepal is at its most rewarding when you slow down and experience its variety. This trip combines wildlife, culture and trekking, with warm community stays that give you a genuine sense of life in the Himalayas.“
Sara
Regional Expert
Explore Our Hotels & Villas
Wherever you go, and whatever you do, at the end of every day you can always be sure of a comfortable rest. Every location on our list of hotels is handpicked, and in its own way, shares the history, the hospitality, and the soul of Nepal. Below are some examples of the different hotels we use.
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India, Kerela
Windermere Estate
An intimate, relaxing property set among tranquil gardens along the River Periyar.
Highlights
Highlights
Sweeping mountain views
Best for
Couples,
Solo Travellers
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Jodhpur
Umaid Bhawan Palace
Perched above the Blue City, Umaid Bhawan Palace fuses regal grandeur with Art Deco flair and first-class comfort. A landmark stay with real presence.
Highlights
Highlights
Landmark hotel,
Fabled history
Best for
Couples
Gallery
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Indonesia, Raja Ampat
Misool Eco Resort
A true tropical hideaway. Private-island escape lapped by crystal-clear waters and vibrant reefs.
Highlights
Highlights
Castaway feeling,
Superb snorkelling & diving
Best for
Solo
Couples
Families
Gallery
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The Maldives, Thimarafushi (Thaa) Atoll
Como Maalfushi
COMO Maalifushi offers remote five-star luxury with a wellness focus, top-tier snorkelling and surfing, and elegant design in the Maldives’ Thaa Atoll.
Highlights
Highlights
Best for
Couples,
Honeymooners
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Indonesia, Bali
Amankila
A lovely, luxurious retreat in a peaceful part of Bali with a dramatic beachside setting at the foot of Mount Agung.
Highlights
Highlights
Cascading swimming pool,
Cliffside setting,
Serene atmosphere
Best for
Couples
Gallery
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India, Kerela
Windermere River House
An intimate, relaxing property set among tranquil gardens along the River Periyar.
Highlights
Highlights
Gorgeous setting
Best for
Couples,
Solo Travellers
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Thailand, West Coast Islands
Koh Jum Beach Villas
Highlights
Highlights
Beachfront villas, Kayaking, Yoga
Best for
Solo
Couples
Friends
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Mai Chau Valley, Vietnam
Avana Retreat
Avana Retreat is a hidden gem nestled in the lush, green mountains of the Mai Chau Valley in Northwest Vietnam.
Highlights
Highlights
Serene mountain setting,
Cool ‘Cloud’ pool
Best for
Couples,
Families,
Solos
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Hue, Vietnam
Anhill Boutique Hotel
Anhill Boutique Hotel offers a serene base near Hue with garden views, spacious rooms, and a tranquil spa. A peaceful stay for cultural travellers.
Highlights
Highlights
Hilltop serenity,
Zen garden
Best for
Couples,
Families
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The ETG Guarantee
We guarantee you an experience no one else has ever had.
The travel magic you’ll remember won’t be found on a well-trodden – or over-Instagrammed – itinerary. It will be the surprises, discoveries and secrets that you’ll uncover along the way with us.
Do you ever feel like people aren’t listening to you?
We get it. And we will – that’s a promise. Your holiday starts with with a proper, no-pressure call to understand what you want, what you don’t want, and what matters to you.. From there, we create a completely unique adventure, inspired by our conversation together.
And because of our long-standing relationships with trusted partners across Asia, you’ll have access to experiences you can’t find on Google. The kind of special experiences that are literally impossible to find on your own.
Experiences of Nepal
Immersive experiences sit at the heart of what we do. Each one is specially designed to confound preconceptions and create moments that are magical and memorable.
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Nepal
Community Homestay Experiences
Experiencing a community homestay in Nepal is like being let in on the country’s best-kept secrets.
The landscapes are staggering, of course, but what will really stick with you is how warmly the host families welcome you into their homes.
Spending time with the communities dotted around Nepal – whether that’s in the rural reaches of Kathmandu Valley, amid the Annapurna Region or down the river from Chitwan National Park – is as genuine and memorable as travel experiences go.
It’s a privilege to slot into the rhythm of their distinctive day-to-day life and get an insider’s glimpse into their cultural traditions. From rolling up your sleeves to help cook family meals to trying your hand at local handicrafts with your gracious hosts, there are plenty of chances to really connect with the people and transcend language barriers.
While you can visit a community as a day trip, we urge you to stay a night or two in a homestay to experience true cultural immersion.
We’re so proud to work with our partners out in Nepal as this social enterprise not only enriches your adventure but also empowers local families – especially the women – through sustainable tourism.
It’s a beautifully balanced experience that’s unforgettable, personal, and powerful.
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Kathmandu, Nepal
Sound Bath Experience
Step into a wonderful wellness centre for a soothing sound bath session with traditional Nepalese singing bowls.
As the gentle vibrations flow through you, they work wonders on your mind and body: melting away stress, easing deep-rooted tension, and rebalancing your chakras.
Afterwards, enjoy a nourishing meal at the centre’s vegetarian restaurant in a peaceful setting.
It’s a deeply restorative experience that will leave you refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready for the next part of your adventure.
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Pokhara & Annapurna Region, Nepal
Peace Pagoda Hike Pokhara
Lace up your walking boots and set off on a 3-hour hike through the Himalayan hills to the Pokhara World Peace Pagoda, perched up high.
Built in 1996, the pagoda stands 35 metres tall, with 37 steps leading you to its second tier. Here, four Buddhas, each from a different cultural tradition, gaze out in all cardinal directions. The south is watched over by a standing bronze Buddha, while a meditative Sri Lankan Buddha faces the west. To the north, you’ll find a Thai Buddha, and looking east is a serene Japanese Buddha.
This serene monument is well worth the walk and offers staggering views over Phewa Lake all the way to Sarangkot on a clear day. Trust us, it’s a scene that’ll linger in your memory long after you’ve left.
But the adventure doesn’t end there. After soaking in the phenomenal panorama, you’ll walk down to the lake to go boating. As you gently glide across it, you’ll hop off onto a tiny island to visit another gem of a pagoda.
It’s the ideal blend of active exploration and quiet reflection, surrounded by the natural beauty of Nepal.
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Chitwan National Park, Nepal
Boat ride and lunch with the Tharu community
Glide down the Narayani River from Meghauli to Amaltari, keeping an eye out for creatures big and small – if luck’s on your side, you might spot a one-horned rhino by the riverbank.
After three leisurely hours on the water, you’ll arrive at a Community Homestay in Barauli, where your hosts will welcome you with a warm smile and a tasty home-cooked lunch.
Barauli is a hidden gem, far from the typical tourist trail. You’ll have the privilege of fitting into the daily life of the ethnic Tharu community, taking in their vibrant rice paddies and immaculate mud houses with towering haystacks.
As dusk falls, you’ll drift back downstream and are likely to be surrounded by a deep-orange sunset. You’re also likely to be the only tourist in sight. Magic.
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Pokhara & Annapurna Region, Nepal
Day Treks in the Annapurna Range
Experiencing the Himalayas in Nepal doesn’t mean that you have to go on overnight treks. You can base yourself in or near Pokhara and we can arrange guided day hikes in the foothills to suit different fitness levels, always with fantastic views. Ideal if you have limited time, don’t fancy staying in mountain lodges or simply don’t want to spend every day walking! You can begin tour treks by taking a short road journey out of the town itself, alternatively if staying outside of town at properties like Tiger Mountain Lodge or Pavilions The Farm, you can begin tour trek directly from the hotel.
Tiger Mountain offers a variety of treks catering to different interests and fitness levels. For an introduction, short walks through local villages and forests provide glimpses into traditional agriculture and rich birdlife, with guides available for bird-watching tours. For more strenuous options, full-day treks like the Gurung Village Walk and Khahare/Naudanda Walk offer cultural insights and stunning views of the Himalayas. The Pokhara Valley Rim and Thulakot & Ramchekot treks explore historical sites and offer panoramic valley views. For gentler options, the Bijaypur River and Shanti Stupa walks provide scenic, relaxed routes.
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Important FAQs about Nepal
Nepal is a land of awe-inspiring peaks, ancient traditions, and warm hospitality. Travelling with ETG means experiencing this remarkable country with the insight of expert local and mountain guides who bring the landscapes and culture to life.
Whether it’s walking through quiet Himalayan villages, exploring the temples and markets of Kathmandu, or spotting wildlife in Chitwan National Park, we ensure your Nepal experience is rich, authentic, and stress-free. Our carefully planned routes and knowledgeable guides help you uncover Nepal’s beauty without the rush of standard tourist trails.
The best seasons for Nepal are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the skies are clear, mountain views are at their best, and trekking conditions are ideal. Spring offers blooming rhododendrons across the hills, while autumn brings crisp, cool weather after the summer rains. Winter (December to February) can be cold at higher altitudes but is perfect for cultural exploration and lowland regions, while summer (June to August) is monsoon season, with fewer visitors and lush, green landscapes.
Every ETG holiday to Nepal is carefully designed to be seamless, immersive, and stress-free. Your journey typically includes international flights (if requested), guide throughout and accommodation in hand-picked, characterful hotels or homestays.
You’ll enjoy incredible, immersive experiences unique to you, all planned by dedicated Nepal specialists, with the added reassurance of 24/7 in-country support from our local team.