Nepal, the ETG Way: Iconic Sights with a Twist

Depart the UK by catching your overnight flight to Nepal.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Wave goodbye to Nepal and take your flight back to the UK.