TNN’s Soul of the Himalayas

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Overview

TNN’s Soul of the Himalayas
Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
Oct 14 - 26, 2027
The Nomadic Network image
The Nomadic Network
$3,695
Deposit: $1,000

About this trip

Where the Mountains Meet the Soul... that's Nepal.

It begins with a feeling: thin mountain air, the distant rhythm of temple bells, and the first glimpse of the Himalayas rising beyond the horizon.

This journey through Nepal is an invitation to experience the country in layers—from ancient cities and hilltop villages to high mountain trails and the deep, whispering jungle. You’ll wander sacred sites in Kathmandu, move slowly through living history in places like Bandipur and Ghandruk, and trek through the Annapurna foothills where prayer flags flutter and sunrise paints the Himalayas in gold. Along the way, you’ll connect with artisans, farmers, and mountain communities whose traditions shape daily life, grounding every step in story and meaning.

The adventure deepens as you lace up your boots for one of Nepal’s most iconic trekking routes, complete with cozy teahouse stays, forested paths, and unforgettable moments like sunrise at Poon Hill. After days framed by snow-capped peaks and terraced fields, the pace softens in Pokhara, where mountain reflections shimmer across Phewa Lake and time seems to slow just enough to breathe it all in. This is active travel with heart—challenging, rewarding, and deeply human.

Then, just when you think Nepal has shown you all its sides, the landscape shifts again. Should you choose to stay on for our Jungle Extension, you'll trade mountain air for the Chitwan jungle lowlands' birdsong and candlelit evenings beneath the trees. Explore Tharu villages, cook with local families, glide along jungle rivers, search for rhinos and tigers on safari, and share laughter around the fire.

This is a journey that moves from sacred peaks to ancestral forests, designed for travelers who crave connection, curiosity, and experiences that stay with you long after you’ve returned home.

At a Glance

Trip Dates: October 14-23, 2027

Extension: October 23-26, 3 nights

Start Location: Kathmandu, Nepal (KTM)

End Location: Kathmandu, Nepal (KTM)

Accommodation: 9-12 nights 

Highlights

  • Explore Kathmandu’s sacred heart, including Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Durbar Square

  • Search for rhinos, crocodiles, and possibly a Royal Bengal tiger on a guided jeep safari

  • Enjoy three days of trekking on moderate trails through the iconic Annapurna foothills

  • Watch sunrise light up the Himalayas from Poon Hill

  • Experience authentic mountain life in Gurung villages like Ghandruk

  • Unwind in Pokhara with a peaceful boat ride on Phewa Lake

  • Connect with the Tharu community through village walks, cooking, and cultural traditions

  • Glide along the Narayani River by canoe and enjoy a sunset paint-and-sip experience

  • White-water raft the Trishuli River on your return to Kathmandu

  • Choose an optional 3-night jungle extension in Chitwan National Park

Single Occupancy Note

There are very limited single rooms available for the 3-day trekking portion of the tour. We recommend booking early if you’d like a single room during these nights, and don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions.

🥾Physical Expectations & Activity Level

Activity Level is MODERATE to HIGH. This journey is ideal for travelers who love culture, adventure, and hands-on experiences. You’ll enjoy three days of moderate trekking at varying elevations, covering trails approximately 7 km, 9 km, and 5 km in length, plus village walks, wildlife spotting, and jungle river adventures. You don’t need prior trekking experience, just comfort on your feet and a curiosity to explore. If you’re excited to connect with local communities and take in breathtaking mountain and jungle scenery, this trip is calling your name.

Additional Details

PAYMENT OPTIONS. We offer payment plan options. If you need a custom plan, please message us. 

DISCOUNTS. Only one discount or promotional code can be applied to this trip.

CARBON OFFSET. We care about the future of our planet, so our customers have the option to contribute towards carbon offsets at checkout. Thank you for your support.  


PHOTOS. We love to share our photos! Enjoy a shared photo gallery of pooled photos after every trip.  

GRATUITIES. Gratuities are not required but greatly appreciated by locals in the tourism industry. For your convenience, we work to handle most tipping for you. See "What's Not Included" for specifics.   

FLEXIBLE CANCELLATION. We offer a flexible cancellation policy: Read the full details in our Terms & Conditions.

🤝Our Group Travel Philosophy

At The Nomadic Network, we believe in creating a balance between group camaraderie and personal freedom.

Our small group tours are designed to foster deep connections with fellow travelers and the destinations we explore. While we encourage social interaction and shared adventures, we also respect your need for occasional solitude and personal reflection. There's no pressure to be social all the time—after all, this is your vacation.

We focus on meaningful, authentic experiences that allow you to connect deeply with locals and truly immerse yourself in each destination. Our goal is for you to leave with lasting memories,  newfound friendships, and a rich appreciation of the beauty we've experienced together. 

What's included

All accommodations

Locally owned hotels, mountain teahouses, and jungle lodge stays

Transportation

Private transport with driver

Transfers

Airport arrival and departure transportation

Meals and dining

Daily breakfasts, plus all meals during the trekking portion and jungle stay as noted in the itinerary - (10) Breakfasts, (4) Lunches, (5) Dinners. Extension: (3) Breakfasts, (4) Lunches, (3) Dinners

Entrance fees & permits

All trekking permits, entrance fees, and national park fees

Expert guides

Expert local guides, trekking guides, and naturalists throughout the trip

Trekking experience

Three days of moderate-rated trails, covering 7 km, 9 km, and 5 km per day, with teahouse accommodations and rest breaks

Porter service

Porter service during the trek, 1 porter shared between 2 travelers

Gratuities

Gratuities for experiences & activities listed, at hotels, & included meals

Domestic flight

Flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu, with aerial views of mountains and lakes

Exploring villages

Guided sightseeing in Kathmandu, Bandipur, Pokhara, and mountain villages

Sunrise at Poon Hill

Sunrise hike to watch the Himalayas glow in gold and pink

Rickshaw rides

Glide through bustling streets and markets of historic Kathmandu neighborhoods

World Peace Pagoda

Climb to this serene hilltop spot for panoramic views of Pokhara and the surrounding mountains.

Int'l Mountain Museum

Explore the International Mountain Museum - discover Himalayan culture, mountaineering history, and the stories of legendary climbers

Cooking class

Hands-on Nepali cooking class with dinner

Boat ride

Boat ride on idyllic Phewa Lake

Sunset from Bandipur

Take in sweeping views over terraced hillsides as the sun dips behind the mountains.

Jeep Safari Adventure

(Extension) Explore Chitwan National Park in a 4WD with trained naturalists, spotting rhinos, deer, crocodiles, and possibly a Royal Bengal tiger.

Tharu Village Experience

(Extension) Walk through local Tharu villages, meet residents, learn traditions, cook with local families, and participate in cultural activities.

Canoe & River Exploring

(Extension) Glide along the Narayani River in traditional dugout boats, observing riverbank wildlife and lush scenery.

Cultural Evening & BBQ

(Extension) Enjoy a Tharu dance performance followed by a BBQ dinner under the stars, celebrating the region’s music, culture, and flavors.

Painting class

(Extension) Relax by the Narayani River banks with a canvas and paints as the sun sets

Guided Birdwatching

(Extension) Join expert-led birding walks to discover the diverse birdlife of the jungle, including rare and endangered species.

White-water rafting

(Extension) Paddle through scenic rapids and gorges of the Trishuli River with expert guides. 3-3.5 rating, considered intermediate or "Class Fun"

Trekking Supplies

Duffel Bag For trekking if required, rental of down jacket if required

What's not included

International flights

Int'l travel insurance

Any passport fees

Travel visa

15-day tourist visa is USD $30, 30-day tourist visa is USD $50 (prices subject to change)

Alcoholic beverages

Meals not listed

Optional fees

Any optional activities not listed

Optional gratuities

Tour Leader gratuities

Tour Leader, Trekking Guide, and Porter. We generally recommend $100 total, per traveler

Day 1 | Oct 14

Day 1 | Oct 14 image

Arrival in Kathmandu

Arrive in Kathmandu and settle into your cozy, locally owned hotel. In the evening, meet your fellow travelers over a traditional Nepali dinner, swapping stories and getting a taste of the adventure ahead.

Meals: D

Day 2 | Oct 15

Day 2 | Oct 15 image

Kathmandu Valley cultural immersion

Dive into Kathmandu’s spiritual heartbeat with visits to the monumental Boudhanath Stupa and the sacred Pashupatinath Temple. Wander Durbar Square and ride a rickshaw through the colorful lanes of Swayambhunath, stopping to chat with local artisans and shopkeepers along the way.

Explore Kathmandu’s spiritual and historic heart with visits to Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Durbar Square, ending with a rickshaw ride through Swayambhunath’s winding streets.

Meal: B

Day 3 | Oct 16

Day 3 | Oct 16 image

Bandipur | Hilltop Village

Wind through the hills to the charming town of Bandipur, perched above terraced fields. Stroll its quiet streets, meet Newari villagers, and watch the sunset behind the Himalayan peaks.

Meals: B, L

Day 4 | Oct 17

Day 4 | Oct 17 image

Drive to Pokhara | Culture & Nature

Travel to lakeside Pokhara, where the mountains meet shimmering waters. Visit the serene World Peace Pagoda, explore the International Mountain Museum, and pause at Pumdikot Mahadev to take in sweeping views before evening leisure by the lake.

Meal: B

Day 5 | Oct 18

Day 5 | Oct 18 image

Ulleri | Trek to Ghorepani

Venture into the Annapurna foothills and begin trekking from Ulleri, climbing stone stairways through lush forests and small villages.

Along the trail, stop to meet villagers and savor glimpses of traditional Himalayan life before reaching Ghorepani.

Overnight in local teahouse.

Trek to Ghorepani (length 7km/4.35 miles) (highest point 2,860m/9,383ft) (4 hours)

Meals: B, L, D

Day 6 | Oct 19

Day 6 | Oct 19 image

Poon Hill Sunrise | Trek to Tadapani

Rise before dawn for the iconic Poon Hill for sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

After breakfast, continue trekking through rhododendron forests toward Tadapani. Afternoon free to rest, journal, and talk with locals.

Overnight at a teahouse.

Trek to Tadapani (length 9km/5.5 miles) (highest point 2,630m/8,628 ft) (6 hours)

Meals: B, L, D

Day 7 | Oct 20

Day 7 | Oct 20 image

Trek to Ghandruk | Gurung Village Experience

Trek through forest trails and terraced farmland to Ghandruk, a Gurung village alive with culture and history. Explore the village on a guided walk, learning about local architecture, customs, and mountain life while enjoying sweeping Himalayan views.

Evening at leisure with mountain views, overnight at tea house.

Trek to Ghandruk (length 5.5km/3.4 miles) (highest point 1,940m/6,364ft) (2.5 hours)

Meals: B, L, D

Day 8 | Oct 21

Day 8 | Oct 21 image

Pokhara | Phewa Lake Boating

Return to Pokhara and enjoy a serene 1-hour boat ride on Phewa Lake, with the reflection of the mountains dancing on the water.

Remainder of day is free to spend the afternoon wandering lakeside cafés, browsing shops, or just soaking in the relaxed atmosphere.

Meals: B

Day 9 | Oct 22

Day 9 | Oct 22 image

Kathmandu | Cooking Class

Take a short scenic flight back to Kathmandu and enjoy a free afternoon to explore or rest. In the evening, roll up your sleeves for a hands-on Nepali cooking class, then savor the dishes you’ve made at our farewell dinner with your new friends.

Meals: B, D

Day 10 | Oct 23

Day 10 | Oct 23 image

Departure | Extension Day 1

After breakfast, if you're planning to return home today you'll bid farewell to Nepal as you transfer to the airport, taking with you wonderful memories of Nepali life.

Meal: B

If you're staying on for our Jungle Extension, the adventure continues!

Arrive at your jungle resort and settle into your tranquil room, surrounded by birdsong and leafy greenery. After a refreshing welcome drink and lunch, step into a nearby Tharu village to meet locals, explore traditional longhouses, and hear stories of ancestral life. Immerse in a slideshow about local conservation efforts.

You'll finish the evening with a candlelit dinner beneath the trees—and a seasonal bonfire to share travel tales under the stars.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 11 | Oct 24

Day 11 | Oct 24 image

Extension Day 2 Jungle Exploration

Wake to the symphony of the jungle and set off on a guided birdwatching walk, spotting kingfishers, hornbills, the elusive Bengal florican, among 500 other species.

After lunch, a half-day 4WD jeep safari takes you through Chitwan National Park. exploring forests, riverbanks, and open plains in search of rhinos, deer, and if luck is on your side, a Royal Bengal tiger.

Return to the lodge for a Tharu photoshoot in traditional attire, then dine beside the serene Macha Pokhari pond.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 12 | Oct 25

Day 12 | Oct 25 image

Extension Day 3 Cooking, Painting, BBQ

Begin the day cooking with Tharu women, crafting traditional dishes and learning to distill local millet liquor before enjoying your creations for lunch.

In the afternoon, glide along the Narayani River in dugout canoes, then as the sun dips low, enjoy a "paint and sip" experience by the riverbank, capturing the golden light of the Chitwan sky on canvas.

The night ends with an exciting Tharu cultural dance and a BBQ dinner under the stars—a festive jungle farewell.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 13 | Oct 26

Day 13 | Oct 26 image

Extension Day 4 River and Return

Savor a final breakfast amidst the calm jungle, then check out and begin the scenic drive to Kathmandu.

We're not done yet! Midway, experience the thrill of 3-3.5 class white-water rafting on the Trishuli River, paddling past gorges and gentle rapids, followed by a riverside lunch before continuing back to the capital.

You can opt to return home this evening or choose to stay another night. We're happy to help you with additional lodging arrangements.

Rafting: 3-3.5 rating, considered intermediate or "Class Fun"

Meals: B, L

Location

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1. Kathmandu 44600, Nepal

Kathmandu 44600, Nepal

About your organizer

We are The Nomadic Network, a tour company built for people who truly love to travel, not just vacation. We create intimate small-group journeys to incredible destinations around the world, bringing together curious, open-hearted travelers who crave meaningful experiences, genuine connection, and maybe the occasional life-changing street food moment.

Our tours go far beyond the typical tourist path, immersing you in local culture through authentic experiences, unforgettable meals, and off-the-beaten-path discoveries you probably won’t find in a “Top 10 Things To Do” article. We believe travel should inspire, connect, and leave you with stories far better than souvenirs. With thoughtfully curated itineraries, amazing local partners, and a focus on quality and value, we make adventure feel exciting, seamless, and deeply human. Come with us, and see what it really means to travel!

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