Overview
CLIMBING TENT PEAK (THARPU CHULI) - 5663m
This outstanding trek includes fascinating trekking trail along an ascent to Tent peak [5663m.], also known as Tharpu Chuli. Tent peak is one of the most climbed trekking peaks in Nepal. Other major highlight of the trip is exclusive exploration of Annapurna sanctuary. The summit of Tent peak offers a stunning 360 degrees panoramic view of the surrounding Annapurna massif. The trek starts from Nayapul after an hour drive from Pokhara. Further on. The trail takes us to the Annapurna Sanctuary via Poon Hill; the trail follows a route, turning southtwards to follow a high ridge which eventually leads to Ghorepani and the Kali Gandaki Valley. From Poon Hill above Ghorepani, we experience the breathtaking views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges before heading back to the most spectacular high mountain amphitheatre, through charming Gurung villages and rhododendron forests.
During our trekking venture, we witness a variety of landscapes sprawling across sub-tropical forest, terraced rice paddies, pleasant ridges, grassy farmland and forests of bamboo and rhododendron. And finally we will be back to Pokhara on the shores of Phewa Tal again.
Duration:20 days Maximum Altitude:5663m Minimum Pax:2 Program Grading:
Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu, meet and transfer to hotel.
The Kathmandu Valley
It is surrounded by a tier of green mountain wall above which tower mighty snow-Capped peaks. It consists of three main towns of great historic, artistic and culture interest. (Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur). The Kathmandu valley covers an area of 218 sq. miles. It is actuated 4223 ft. above sea-level. The ancient Swasthani scriptures tell of Lord Shiva, supreme among Hindu gods, who came down to the Kathmandu valley to escape boredom. He came as a tourist, if that is the appropriate word, but he was neither among the first nor the last of the gods to visit the Valley. Visitors have come to Nepal since time forgotten. And though the country is much deferent today than it was in ancient times, it has not diminished in charm; the increase in the number of visitors over the years is a living proof. Those who came to the Valley today will appreciate a lot more then Lord Shiva did in his tour. The architecture started here by the Lichhavi and Malla Kings is one such example. Much of the greenery that Lord Shiva is gone, but the forest surrounding Pashupati, where he stayed, is still intact. The seven World heritage Sites in Kathmandu Valley designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and cultural Organization (UNESCO) are the highlights of the Valley.
Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley
Swayombohunath
The history of the Valley, according to the legends, begins with Swoyambhu, or the “the self-existent”. In times uncharted by history, Bodhisattva Manjusri came across a beautiful lake during his travel. He saw a lotus that emitted brilliant light at the lake’s center, so he cut a gorge in a southern hill and drained the waters to worship the lotus. Men called it the Kathmandu Valley. From then on, the hilltop of the Self-existent Lord has been a holy place.
Kathmandu Durbar Square
It is easy to be overwhelmed by the seemingly uncountable monuments in the Kathmandu Durbar Square. The house of the Living goddess, the ferocious Kal Bhairab, the red monkey god, and hundreds of erotic carvings are a few examples of the sights at the square! The building here is the greatest achievements of the Malla dynasty, and they resulted from the great rivalry between the three palaces of Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur. The valley was divided among the children of Yaksya Malla. For visitors today, and for the Nepalese, it was serendipitous that they, and later their off springs, began artistic warfare trying to outdo each other in splendid constructions. Kings copied everything their neighbors built in an even grander style. A visitor who wanders around the Square will see a round temple in the Pagoda architectural style, the temple of goddess Taleju (who played dice with King Jaya Prakash Malla), and an image of Shiva and Parbati sitting together among the many monuments.
Bouddhanath
Boudhanath is among the largest stupa in south Asia, and it has become the focal point of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. The white mound looms thirty-six meters overhead. The stupa is located on the ancient trade route to Tibet, and Tibetan merchants rested and offered prayers here for many centuries. When refugees entered Nepal from Tibet in the 1950s, many of them decided to live around Boudhanath. They established many gompas, and the “Lit the Tibet” of Nepal was born. This “Little Tibet” is still the best place in the valley to observe Tibetan lifestyle. Monks walk about in maroon robes. Tibetans walk with prayer wheels in their hands and the rituals of prostration are presented to the Buddha as worshippers circumambulate the stupa on their hands and knees, bowing down to their lord.
Pashupatinath
One-day lord Shiva got tired of this magnificent palace on Mt. Kailas, his armies of ghosts and spirits, and even Parbati – his beautiful wife. Through his cosmic powers, he searched for a perfect place where he could holiday. Without telling anyone, he ran away from his palace and came to live in Slesmantak forest in the Kathmandu valley. He gained great fame here as Pashupati – Lord of the Animals – before other gods discovered his hiding place and came to fetch him. The Pashupati where he stayed has received the attention of worshippers for at least fifteen hundred years; it is the holiest Hindu pilgrimage destination in Nepal
Day 03: Full day Sightseeing in Kathmandu
Dakshinkali
Drive Kathmandu to Dakshinkali is 45-minute drive south from Kathmandu. Located in a dark valley at the confluence of two streams, the shrine of Dakshinkali is the most spectacular of all Kali temples. Animal sacrifices are offered to this deity signifying fertility and the procreative powers of the Female, every Tuesday & Saturday. The animals are presented to the priest who will ritually decapitate them with a khukuri knife & bathe the black stone image of Kali in blood.
Chobar Gorge
The village of Chobar is situated west of Patan above the legendary Chobar Gorge, which Bodhisattva Manjushri is said to have cut in the rocks with a sword, so draining the Kathmandu Valley. Chobar, a former outpost of Patan, stands at the top of the deceptively tall hill overlooking the Bagmati River. Chobar huddles around its idiosyncratic Adinath Mandir , the front of which is completely decorated with pots, pans and jugs. Various explanations are cited for the practice of offering kitchen utensils to Lokeshwar, the temple's deity: newlyweds will say it ensures a happy union, others claim it's a necessary rite to send a recently departed loved one off to a prosperous next life. Lokeshwar is worshipped here in the form of a red mask, which bears a close resemblance to Patan's Rato Machhendranath.
Bungmati and Khokana and many temples
About 9km. South of Patan lies the two medieval village of Bungmati and Khokana. To reach these villages one has to follow the straight road from Jawalakhel. We are making a day hike from Kritipur to Bungmati via Chover Gorge is one of the cultural place, and you can have great experience to walk through the village and farmland can be very enjoyable. About 5000 people live in Bungmati and 3000 inhabitants in Khonkana. Most of the people are Newars. From Khokana, Bungmati is 15 minutes walk. In these villages on can see typical Newari houses. Also these villages are popular for chilly and mustard oil. The best time to visit Bungmati and Khokana is in October and November because at that time the whole village looks colorful. They hand red chilly garland from the top floor to the ground floor in the whole village. Most of the farmers in these villages are either involved in spinning or oil pressing business. The mustard oil of Khokana is still popular in Kathmandu valley
Annapurna Base Camp trek with Tharpu Chuli
Trek Summary:
Annapurna Areas {4/21days} this is very popular trekking area in Nepal. It is very beautiful for its mountain scenery, section of Nepal. Trek can start Beshisahar & many option s places for those who like to do long & short [easy & adventure] Trek. Trekkers they have to walk through Green fields of paddy & banana groves, into oak bamboo, pine, rhododendron, & many kinds of tree lines. Eventually emerging into high desert places, high passes, religious place, holly place [for Hindu & Buddhist] & historic furriers town. This trek gives you ample opportunity to observe the Culture & life style of at least a half dozen ethnic groups and exposition more than any other trek. But if any person like crossing the Throng la passes [5416mt] required to acclimatize & to have excellent physical fitness. Mountains views of Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Annapurna and many more…
Tharpu Chuli
CLIMBING TENT PEAK (THARPU CHULI) - 5663m This outstanding trek includes fascinating trekking trail along an ascent to Tent peak [5663m.], also known as Tharpu Chuli. Tent peak is one of the most climbed trekking peaks in Nepal. Other major highlight of the trip is exclusive exploration of Annapurna sanctuary. The summit of Tent peak offers a stunning 360 degrees panoramic view of the surrounding Annapurna massif. The trek starts from Nayapul after an hour drive from Pokhara. Further on. The trail takes us to the Annapurna Sanctuary via Poon Hill; the trail follows a route, turning southtwards to follow a high ridge which eventually leads to Ghorepani and the Kali Gandaki Valley. From Poon Hill above Ghorepani, we experience the breathtaking views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges before heading back to the most spectacular high mountain amphitheatre, through charming Gurung villages and rhododendron forests.
During our trekking venture, we witness a variety of landscapes sprawling across sub-tropical forest, terraced rice paddies, pleasant ridges, grassy farmland and forests of bamboo and rhododendron. And finally we will be back to Pokhara on the shores of Phewa Tal again.
This trip is tailor made for anyone who is physically fit and has adventure spirit. After proper acclimatization, this trip can be undertaken at any time of the year except monsoon [July & August].
Day 04: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Overnight in Pokhara.
After Breakfast drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara on the Prithvi Highway 208 km. It will take 5 to 6 hours drive.
Pokhara is beautiful city
Pokhara is a place of remarkable natural beauty. The serenity of Phewa Lake and the magnificence of the fish-tailed summit of Machhapuchhre (6,977m) rising behind it create an ambiance of peace and magic. At an elevation lower than Kathmandu, it has much more tropical feel to it, a fact well appreciated by the beautiful diversity of flowers which prosper in its environs. Indeed, the valley surrounding Pokhara is home to thick forests, gushing rivers, emerald lakes, and of course, the world Famous views of the Himalaya. Clearly the most the most stunning of Pokhara's sights in the spectacular panorama of the Annapurna range which forms its drop. Stretching from east to west, the Annapurna massif includes Annapurna I to IV and Annapurna South.
Lake
Pokhara is a city of fine lakes with crystalline water. Phewa Tal is in the immediate vicinity of the city is with an island temple dedicated to Goddess Barahi in the middle. With its serene water reflecting the Annapurna range and a nicely preserved forest on the adjoining southern slope, this legendary second largest lake of the Kingdom remains a major source of attraction for the visiting tourists. This lake can also be enjoyed by swimming. Begnas & Rupa, these twin lakes lie in the north-east of Pokhara valley about 15 km away from the airport. The road to Begnas follows Kathmandu-Pokhara Highway as far as Sisuwa near the police check post and branches off the road towards north. It is possible to take a bus ride or car to the dam side of Begnas from the city and visit the area.
Next day trek start
Day 05: Trek start from Nayapul to Tikhedhunga
After breakfast, from Pokhara drive to Nayapul and trek to Tirkhedhunga, (1577M)
About one and half-hours to Nayapul (42 km.). The drive gives you wonderful chance to see the view of Pokhara valley with Mt. Annapurna & Fishtail in background. Start walk from Nayapul (1050m.), after half an hour walk stop for lunch at Birethanti. After lunch, it is an easy walk for two hours following the Bhurendi khola (river) and you will meet Gurung village. Those people are busy in their fields. The environment is pretty to see there. You will reach to Bhuk Deaurli (1500m) after one and half-hour walk. The Tikhedhunga is your night camp.
Day 06: Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani, after breakfast, trek to Ghorepani (2850 m.)
You have to walk 3 hours are serious uphill through the different villages and terraces. After one and half-hour walk you will get chance to see the view of mount Annapurna south (7219m) and Himchuli (6444m). That view does not move away from your eyes for another one and half hours. The name of place Banthanti is our lunch stop for that day, being just before the forest walk will start. After lunch, walking through rhododendron, bamboo, and pine forest makes your walk will be more interesting even you will have chance to see white monkeys and birds around. The walk feels little bit difficult, but that is great experience and good for next day, because the next morning the Poon hill (3200m.) is great panoramic view point for 12 peaks including Dhaulagiri (8167m), very close view of Annapurna south (7219) Machhapuchre (6993), and other famous peaks. The spring season is great time to visit there, because forest with colorful rhododendron flowers make you wonderful feelings then overnight camp at Ghorepani.
Day 07: Ghorepani to Tadapani
After breakfast trek to Tadapani (2700m): Today You will wake up early in the morning at 5am, after having tea, one-hour Excursion up to Poon hill 3210m. to observing sunrise, views a large mountain range including mount Dhawalagiri, Fishtail, Annapurna south, Annapurna I, Nilgiri, Lamjung Himal range etc. you can take Photos of the different views and having hot drink will be unforgettable great experience in your lifetime. After spending one and half- hour up on the Poon hill you will descend down back to Ghorepani about 8 am. You will have breakfast and continue walk towards the Tadapani (2700m) about 9 am. The trail leads uphill for one and half-hour through jungle that walk provides you great view of Dhawalagiri, Nilgiri, Annapurna south, Gangapurna, Himchuli and Fishtail. The trail leads you Gurung hill (3290 m), down to Deurali (3100 m) and Banthanti, then lunch spot of that very day. Most of the walks will be through the jungle for this day. After having lunch at Banthanti another one and half-hours to go up hill to Tadapani for another view point. The town Tadapani is small newly built business center with 10-12 lodges. You will have camp at Tadapani
Day 08: Trek to Chhumrung (1950M.) and continue to Sinuwa Danda
After breakfast, start walk towards steep down to Kyumru Khola, crossing a suspension Bridge, we will stop for lunch at Gurjung village. After lunch we have to walk gradual up and flat way to Chhomrong village. At Chhomrong you will find only Gurung ethnic group of people. We continue walk to Sinuwa danda and stayed overnight.
Day 09: Trek to Himalaya hotel [2680m]
After dropping down to the Chomrong Khola on steep stone steps, the trail climbs again, initially through terraced fields and then through a forest of bamboo and rhododendron. Today's walk is always either up or down on steep paths which are often paved. Sometimes there are views of the Annapurnas and Machhapuchhare ahead, but often the forest is too thick to allow more than a tantalizing glimpse. After reaching the village of Khuldigar, we descend a stone staircase to a section of exceptionally thick bamboo forest which leads to the settlement known as "Bamboo Lodge". From here, we climb steeply through bamboo and rhododendron forest, following the trail high above the river to day's end at Himalaya Hotel. [5-6 hours walking].
Day 10: Trek to Machhapuchhre base camp [3480m]
Climbing steeply; we soon reach a fire-blackened overhang which has been walled-in to make a small lodge. This place is known as Hinku Cave. The trail rises continually now, as we near the entry to the Sanctuary. Passing the lodges at Deurali and Bagar, we arrive at the level and grassy moraine platform known as Machhapuchhre Base Camp. [3 to 5 hours walking].
Day 11: Trek to Annapurna base camp [3900m]
Another short day today, and a fairly gentle ascent through tranquil meadows brings us to Annapurna Base Camp. Increasingly impressive views reward us for our efforts as we climb the last steep section before reaching the base camp area. From here there are fantastic views of the south face of Annapurna I. [2 hours walking].
Day 12: Trek to Tent peak Tharpu Chuli high camp
This morning we make our way up to our high camp and prepare for the following day's assault on Tent Peak. For those who do not wish to do the climb there is enormous potential for day hikes from camp or, if you'd prefer, it's an inspiring place to simply sit around camp and admire the breathtaking scenery.
Day 13: Ascent of Tent peak Tharpu Chuli [5663m]
Early in the morning we begin our ascent of the peak and after a hard climb, we are rewarded with breathtaking views of the Annapurna range. We then return to Annapurna Base Camp and over night at Annapurna base Camp.
Day 14: Spare day
We take a complete break from trekking to avoid adverse climatic conditions. This also allows us to rest after our strenuous trekking to enhance our health and for incase of the bad weather on the previous day we will Ascent Tharpu Chuli today and will be back to the ABC.
Day 15: Annapurna Base Camp to Sinuwa Danda
The route begins on a broad grassy path, before climbing over lateral moraine and down to the beautiful ablation valley. We soon reach the British Expedition Annapurna South Face Base Camp (4234m.) The best views are probably obtained from the crest of the moraine, which we follow until it is cut through by the glacier flowing down from Himal Chuli to the north.
Descend and follow the same route to a pleasant camp spot at Dovan will continually walk to Sinuwa and over night.
Day 16: Modi Khola New Bridge and end of trek at Nayapul and drive back to Pokhara.
The trail passes the small village of Khuldi Bikas, before continuing through rhododendron and bamboo fields to the Alpine-style village of Chhomrung. Stony steps climb steeply to Kabre Chautara and soon after we turn off for Landrung, leaving the Ghandrung path dropping away towards the river. But we will continually walk to sauli bazaar and ends our trek Nayapul and drive back to Pokhara.
Day 17: Drive from Pokhara to Chitwan, Overnight in Chitwan
After breakfast we will drive to Chitwan about 160 Kilometer and4-5 hrs drive. After arrival lunch and some jungle activities according to the camp management.
Royal Chitwan National Park
Nepal’s first and most famous national park is situated in the Chitwan Doon or the lowlands of the inner Terai. Covering an area of 932 sq. km. the park includes hilly areas of the Siwalik Range covered by deciduous sal forest. A fifth of the park is made up of the floodplains of the Narayani, Rapti and the ReuRivers and is covered by dense tall elephant grass interspersed with reverine forest of silk cotton, acacia and sisam trees. This ecologically diverse area is the last remaining home in Nepal for more than 500 of the endangered Asian one-horned Rhinoceros and harbors one of the largest populations of the elusive and rare Royal Bengal Tiger. Besides Rhino and Tiger, Chitwan also supports a great variety of flora and fauna. There are 4 species of deer, including the spotted Chittal, Leopard, Sloth bear, wild boar, rhesus monkey, Gray langur monkey, wild dog, small wild cat, the white stocking gaur and many other smaller animals. The swampy areas and numerous ox-bow lakes of Chitwan provide a home for marss crocodiles. In a stretch of the Narayani river is found one of the few remaining of populations of the rare and endangered fish – only eating gharial, or gangetice crocodile. Here also is found one of the worlds 4 species of fresh water Dolphin. For the ornithologist and the amateur bird – watcher the park offers excellent possibilities with more than 452 species. Some of the resident specialties are peacocks, several species of woodpecker, hornbills, Bengal florican, and red headed trogons. Winter bird such as water fowl, brahmini duck, and pintails and bar headed geese, all must many other cold weather visitors are drawn by the sanctuary of the Parks Rivers.
Day 18: Full day Jungle activities in Chitwan
Today you will be doing an Elephant ride and Canoe trip and other jungle activities you will be fully busy for different activities.
Day 19: Drive back to Kathmandu from Chitwan. Overnight in Kathmandu.
After some activities in the morning you will have breakfast and drive back from Chitwan to Kathmandu and over night in Kathmandu.
Day 20: Final Departure from Kathmandu.