Trip Overview

Experience the splendor of the Himalayas on a high-energy, low-altitude trekking tour in Nepal with river rafting and wildlife safaris. Head to Kathmandu for this unique opportunity to experience Nepal’s most magnificent sights!

Meet your fellow AdventureWomen travelers in Kathmandu and begin imagining the week ahead over a delicious welcome dinner. The next morning fly straight to Pokhara, the capital of western Nepal, and meet your Nepalese guides: experts in navigating your trek through the foothills of the majestic Himalayas.

Annapurna Mountains & Birethanti

Begin trekking beneath the sharp peaks and vertiginous valleys of the Annapurna Mountains. Get to know your fellow adventurers on a phenomenal hike of the lower foothills, trekking to 7,500 feet before dropping into the Modi River Valley. A challenging full-day climb follows, passing terraced farms, thick forests, and picturesque hamlets on your way to Ghandruk. This wonderful village, reachable only on foot, is built high on a mountainside and features picturesque stone walkways winding between homes and fabulous views of the surrounding Annapurna peaks. Join your fellow travelers walking to its beautiful temple or visit Ghandruk’s female weavers who create traditional Nepalese rugs.

Absorb the peace and energy of the snow-capped Himalayas on your hike to Birethanti, laughing your way along the trail. Meander the stone paths and stairways alongside passing laden donkeys, walk to the milky blue river, or hike to a nearby waterfall. To reach picturesque Majhgaon, cross a swaying cable bridge and trek up a series of paved steps and switchbacks, then set out for the city of Pokhara to celebrate the end of your trek! The adventure isn’t over yet though – repack tonight because tomorrow your adventure moves to the water!

Seti River & Kathmandu

Rafting on the pristine Seti River is a gentle ride that allows you to watch pastoral villages and stunning scenery float by. Stop at a river camp for one day to enjoy some peaceful downtime next to the water. You may also hike nearby local villages to see Nepalese culture untouched by tourism, a favorite of many Adventure Women.

Safari by canoe and jeep through Royal Chitwan National Park will cap your adventure in Nepal. This remote jungle has a wide variety of monkey, deer, and crocodile species; it’s also the habitat of the greater one-horned rhinoceros. Sightings of these elusive creatures are also few, but if you remain quiet and alert, you might be the lucky woman who spots one! The birdsongs and scents of nature will surround and enchant you. End your journey in Kathmandu, where you’ll have a chance to explore the city and visit Bhaktapur.

For women who crave the Himalayan experience, this low-altitude trek in Nepal provides momentous thrills and spectacular mountain views at altitudes every hiking enthusiast will love!

Main Attractions

  • Experience the exotic culture of Nepal and meet artisans and local villagers making their living in Nepalese villages
  • Trek through the breathtaking Himalaya Mountains on a low altitude route that boasts spectacular views of the snow capped peaks
  • Travel back in time as you raft the Seti River through Nepal’s pastoral countryside
  • Paddle through Royal Chitwan National Park on wildlife safari

What You'll See and Do

  • Buddhism
  • National Parks
  • Sightseeing
  • Trekking
  • Whitewater Raft/Float
  • Wildlife Viewing
  • Women-To-Women Exchanges

If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686

Trip Itinerary

The AdventureWomen itineraries are subject to change depending on the chosen departure date. To view a specific departure itinerary, simply click on the "Browse Detailed Itinerary" button above and select your date.

Day 1

Arrive in Kathmandu
Welcome to Nepal! Nepal’s towering mountains and verdant valleys, ancient cities and villages, and the exotic Nepalese people fascinate all who are lucky enough to visit this culturally and geologically rich country.

During your adventure, you’ll get to know your Nepalese guide who is an expert in navigating your trek through the foothills of the majestic Himalayas. You’ll meet incredible individuals on your journey who will help make your experience a fun and personally fulfilling adventure. They’ll cheer you on as you step outside your comfort zone, embracing new challenges in your own distinct way!

You will be met at Kathmandu Airport and transferred to your hotel. This afternoon at 3:00 pm, meet in the lobby of the Yak and Yeti Hotel. Have a full briefing on your adventure. You will be given your trek duffel bags and reminded how to pack for the trek.

Enjoy a lively welcome dinner as you get to know your fellow travelers this evening. Share stories and learn about why each woman on your trip is excited to explore Nepal!

Dinner

Overnight: Yak & Yeti Hotel

Day 2

Kathmandu to Birethanti
This morning you fly to Pokhara (3,300 feet), the rural capital of Western Nepal. Have a trek briefing before departing with your guides and porters for the one-hour drive to the trek’s starting point.

Your first day’s trek follows a ridgeline in the lower foothills of the Annapurnas, with surrounding views of the Pokhara Valley. The route then drops to the Modi River Valley, home to Sanctuary Lodge and your first night’s stay. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the village of Chandrakot before continuing your trek to the lodge.(Trekking time 4-6 hours, approx 4.5 miles, 1,532′ elevation gain)

Enjoy lunch with the group today.

Settle into your comfortable lodge this evening.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Sanctuary Lodge

Day 3

Birethanti to Ghandruk
Leave Sanctuary Lodge and walk through outlying farms along the Modi River Valley. After an hour of easy walking, you begin to climb out of the valley and up towards the mountains. Snacks are provided en-route. The trail passes through small hamlets, terraced rice fields, and forests. (Trekking time 6-8 hours, approx. 9 miles, 3,200’ elevation gain)

Arrive in the afternoon at the Himalaya Lodge in Ghandruk (6,600 feet) and enjoy a late lunch while taking in the spectacular close-up views of the surrounding mountains.

Take some time to freshen up and take a hot shower, change from your hiking clothes, and enjoy the evening Annapurna panorama before dinner.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Himalaya Lodge

Day 4

Ghandruk
Today you have a free morning to explore the mountain village of Ghandruk, a major recruitment center for the famous Gurkha soldiers. Meet and talk with the women of Ghandruk, who maintain a local industry weaving traditional Nepalese rugs.

This afternoon you may choose an optional walk to an altitude of 7,500 feet or relax in the beautiful garden area of the lodge. (Optional hike approx. 3 miles, 900’ elevation gain)

Meet and talk with the women of Ghandruk and participate in one of their daily activities.

Lunch and dinner are at the Himalaya Lodge today.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Himalaya Lodge

Day 5

Ghandruk to Birethanti
After breakfast, depart the Himalaya Lodge and return to Birethanti via the village of Kimche, about midway through the trek. Hike back to your Lodge. (Trekking time 4-6 hours, approx. 7.5 miles, 2,850’ elevation loss)

Enjoy lunch with the group today

This afternoon, you can relax by the river or in the landscaped gardens from which the magnificent 23,000-foot Machapuchare can be viewed. Alternatively, join an optional guided hike to a nearby waterfall.

Take some time to freshen up, take a hot shower and change before dinner. Enjoy the evening as the sun sets on the Annapurna panorama.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Sanctuary Lodge (2024 departures), Birethanti Lodge (2025 departure)

Day 6

Birethanti to Majgaun
After breakfast, leave your Lodge and follow the Modi River until arriving at a cable bridge about 20 minutes upriver. After crossing the bridge, ascend partly on well-paved steps and partly on switchbacks, until you reach the welcome sign of the Gurung Lodge. (Trekking time 2-4 hours, approx. 3 miles, 843’ elevation gain)

Spend the rest of the day exploring the nearby picturesque villages of Majgaun and Patleket. Enjoy dinner at the lodge tonight.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Mala Lodge (2024 Departures), Majhgaon Lodge (2025 departure)

Day 7

Majgaun to Pokhara
After early morning tea and coffee served on your veranda, you have the opportunity to photograph the stunning scenery of the Annapurnas from several different locations around the lodge.

Trek to the village of Lumle, situated at 5,300 feet, where a vehicle is waiting to transfer you to Pokhara and the Temple Tree Resort. (Trekking time 2-3 hours, approx. 2 miles, 689’ elevation gain)

This afternoon is free to wander among the shops on the lakeside or take a rowboat out on the lake.

Dinner is at a colorful local restaurant.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Temple Tree Resort & Spa

Day 8

Pokhara
Enjoy a day at leisure to explore Pokhara, do some shopping, or just relax.

Once at the Temple Tree Resort in Pokhara, your extra raft and Chitwan luggage (which you left in Pokhara before your trek departure) is waiting for you, to pack for tomorrow’s departure. Waterproof bags are provided. All items for the two-night raft trip are carried in the raft in these waterproof bags. The boats also have watertight drums to keep cameras, sunscreen, and any other small items you may need during the day. The remainder of your luggage/clothes for Chitwan is transported in a vehicle to the raft finish point.

Lunch is on your own today and dinner will be with the group. Your guide will coordinate the time and location for dinner with everyone.

Breakfast, Dinner

Overnight: Temple Tree Resort & Spa

 

 

Day 9

Pokhara to Seti River
After breakfast, leave the Temple Tree Resort for the two-day raft trip on the Seti River. From Pokhara, it is a one-and-a-half-hour journey through scenic countryside.

Upon arrival at Damauli, the starting point on the river, meet the experienced boat crew, who give a full briefing prior to launch.

On the way to camp, stop for a picnic lunch on a sandy beach.

Today, there are two small rapids of no more than grade 2 (about 165 feet long). The remainder of the trip is very much a float experience, all the way  to the river camp. Rafting time is about three hours, depending on the water levels.

Dinner Dinner is at camp tonight.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Seti River Camp

Day 10

The Seti River
Today is just for relaxing at this beautiful, lush camp on the river. There are “treehouses” you can sit in and read a book. Or, you can choose to take a hike to one of the nearby villages, the village of Darampani, about two hours above the river camp. Since no other trek companies hike to this village, it remains quite untouched by tourism. Forty-five minutes above the village there is a spectacular viewpoint where you can see the entire Annapurna as well as the Manaslu Range of mountains.

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are at camp. Enjoy exquisite local cuisine prepared by the camp’s own private chef.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Seti River Camp

Day 11

The Seti River to Royal Chitwan National Park

Spend this morning rafting and then journey by vehicle for approximately two hours to Chitwan National Park.

Enjoy a picnic lunch along the way.

Set out to explore the park by foot and by canoe.

Dinner is at the resort tonight.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Kasara Resort

Day 12

Chitwan National Park to Kathmandu
Enjoy a final morning in the park before departing. After breakfast, transfer to the airfield for the short flight back to Kathmandu. Enjoy lunch along the way.

You will be met upon arrival in Kathmandu. On the way back into the city, take a special tour of the exceptional Buddhist Complex of Boudhanath. After visiting the Stupa, the largest in Nepal, there is free time for shopping in this marvelous city of bargains.

In the late afternoon, transfer to the Yak and Yeti Hotel. Dinner is on your own tonight in one of the terrific local restaurants.

Breakfast, Lunch

Overnight: Yak & Yeti Hotel

Day 13

Kathmandu
This morning enjoy time on your own to explore the city of Kathmandu.

Lunch is on your own today.

After lunch, enjoy a half-day guided sightseeing trip to the ancient city of Bhaktapur. The rest of the afternoon is free for shopping and exploring.

Have a farewell dinner with your new AdventureWomen friends. Reminisce over all the memories you have made and celebrate the end of an amazing journey through this truly spectacular country.

Breakfast, Dinner

Overnight: Yak & Yeti Hotel

Day 14

Depart Kathmandu
Enjoy one last morning in Kathmandu before transferring to the airport for your flights home.

Breakfast

Please note: AdventureWomen will attempt to adhere to the itinerary as much as possible. However, certain conditions (political, climatic, environmental, and cultural) may necessitate changes in the itinerary. AdventureWomen reserves the right to alter any itinerary at any time, if necessary. We will attempt to notify participants of changes as far in advance as possible. Costs incurred by such changes will be the responsibility of the participants. 

If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686

Traveling to Nepal



Arrival and Departure Information

 

October 18, 2024 Departure:

Arrive: Arrive in Kathmandu, Nepal (KTM) on October 18, 2024 before 2:00PM

Depart: Depart Kathmandu, Nepal (KTM) on October 31, 2024 anytime

November 7, 2025 Departure:

Arrive: Arrive in Kathmandu, Nepal (KTM) on November 7, 2025 before 2:00PM

Depart: Depart Kathmandu, Nepal (KTM) on November 20, 2025 anytime

We are happy to help you make your flight and travel arrangements. If you’d like to do anything prior to or following the AdventureWomen trip, we’d be delighted to help you arrange any trip extensions you’re interested in.

Note: The recent trend in travel is for travelers to finalize their plans much closer to departure time than was customary in the past. While we try to be as flexible as possible booking last-minute registrants, we must release hotel rooms two to three months prior to departure! Please keep this in mind when making your travel plans.

Preparation and Packing  

Please use the following guides as a reference when preparing for your adventure. We also encourage you to adapt the guides to your travel style as well as the destination’s forecasted weather.  

Gratuities  

Gratuities are a personal decision and are at your own discretion based on your level of satisfaction with the service provided. Gratuities are dependent upon the number of guests on your departure, and they vary greatly from trip to trip. As a general reference, AdventureWomen suggests you plan for $350-$450 (or more) worth of gratuities for this adventure. Specific tipping recommendations for your trip will be provided to you closer to your departure date and may fluctuate due to inflation, exchange rates, and the number of travelers on your trip. 

Passports and Visas

Citizens of the United States must have a passport valid for six months beyond your travel dates with at least two blank facing pages. If you do not have a passport, please apply now!

US Passport holders will need a visa to visit Nepal. We will provide detailed information before your departure on how to obtain your visa.

Activity Level

We rate this trip as High Energy. Our High Energy adventures are designed for women who enjoy a physical challenge and crave being on the go! You should be prepared for itineraries that include (but are not limited to): a full day of biking on rolling terrain, hiking 5-8 miles on moderate to steep trails, being active at high altitudes, whitewater rafting, or skiing. Our Challenging adventures get your heart rate pumping, these are demanding yet deeply rewarding and designed for seasoned outdoor enthusiasts. You should be in excellent physical condition, and be able to hike up to 10 miles, in steeper, more rugged terrain. Please note that this is a general description of what you might encounter; for specific details about your trip, please consult the itinerary.

We recommend training before your trip (with your doctor’s permission) to make the most of your adventure. With this itinerary in mind, we have a partnership with Trailblazer Wellness, a woman-owned, women-run company that will design an individualized fitness plan just for you! Best of all, AdventureWomen guests get a 10% discount with the code AVW. Learn more on the Trailblazer Wellness website.

Health Considerations

Make an appointment with a travel clinic, as they may have recommendations for vaccines and medications based on the destination as well as your age, health, and past vaccination history.

For more health information, go to www.cdc.gov/travel and navigate to the page about Nepal.

How to Register

Call the AdventureWomen office at (800) 804-8686 to determine space availability and register for this trip. We can complete your registration, including taking your credit card deposit over the phone.

If you prefer, you can register online by clicking “Sign Up for this Trip” on the trip page.

Please be sure to read the AdventureWomen policies before registering!

Forms and Final Payment

The deposit for this trip is $800. You can transfer your deposit to another trip with no additional fee if you notify us within 120 days of the original trip departure date. We can hold your deposit for up to six months as a credit. Failure to book a new trip within this timeframe will result in the forfeiture of your deposit.

Once you book, you will need to fill out and return to AdventureWomen:

  • Information Form
  • Booking Conditions Form
  • Copy of Flight Information
  • Copy of Issuing Page of Passport (Photo Page)
  • Supplement Health and Safety Form
  • Additional supplemental whitewater rafting release form
  • Additional supplemental trekking release form

Final payment is due to AdventureWomen in a cash form (check, money order, or wire transfer). A maximum of $1,500 per person can be put on a credit card, which includes your deposit.

October 18, 2024 Departure Final Payment Due Date July 24, 2024

November 7, 2025 Departure Final Payment Due Date August 9, 2025

If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686

What's Included

Included

  • Accommodations as per itinerary based on double occupancy
  • All meals as listed in the itinerary
  • All ground transportation
  • Airport transfers
  • Domestic flights (priced separately from the main trip)
  • Fully-guided sightseeing as indicated in the itinerary
  • Entrance fees
  • Professional, English-speaking guide throughout the trip
  • Drinking water in large jugs to refill personal bottles
  • All local beverages while on trek and on the Seti River
  • Loan of duffels for trek and raft trip
  • Loan of day pack, rain gear, walking sticks while on trek
  • In trekking lodges, loan of down jacket, wool hat, gloves
  • Gratuities for drivers, assistant guide, river guide, Chitwan guide, porters, and airport representative in Kathmandu

Not Included

  • International airfare to and from Nepal
  • Optional activities
  • Meals not specified in the itinerary
  • Alcoholic beverages (unless otherwise specified)
  • Fees for passport, visas, immunizations, or travel insurance
  • Cost of hospitalization or evacuation
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Gratuities for the main guide

If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686

Accommodations

Hotel Yak & Yeti 

The restored 19th-century palace houses two restaurants, several grand banquet halls, and the Casino Royale. In the lobby, granite floors, carved wood pillars, and gleaming brass and copper provide a suitably exotic feel, and through a wall of glass you can see the hotel’s extensive gardens. All of the guest rooms are comfortable and nicely equipped to give a feeling of being home while away from home. It is THE place to stay in Kathmandu!.

Amenities:
Soap, shampoo, conditioner, hair dryer; electricity; Wifi available for a fee

Sanctuary Lodge

The lodge has stunning views of the sacred and unclimbed “Fishtail Mountain,” or Machapuchare, as it is locally known. Set in lush surroundings with colorful flower gardens and the river nearby, the Sanctuary Lodge has twin bedrooms, solar heated showers, and Western toilet facilities. There is also a central reception and dining area with a fireplace, comfortable chairs, books, and magazines.

Amenities:
Soap, shampoo, electricity, limited Wifi

Himalaya Lodge

From the garden of the lodge, some of the highest peaks in the world can be seen in their snowcapped glory. The lodge is centered around a 150-year-old traditional Gurung village house, which now serves as the dining room and main reception area. New bedrooms with covered verandas, solar-heated showers, and western toilet facilities have been added to this traditional house.

Amenities: Soap, shampoo, electricity, limited Wifi

Mala Lodge (2024 Departures)

The Mala Lodge is nestled in the lowland valley among rice terraces off the main trekking route. Set among beautiful gardens, the lodge is a place of peace and tranquility.

Amenities: Soap, shampoo, electricity; limited Wifi

Birethanti Lodge (2025 Departure) 

Nestled on a promontory with breathtaking views of the Modi Khola, MLN Birethanti graces the landscape, accessible via a suspension bridge adorned with prayer flags. The property spans half a mile along the river, boasting flourishing lawns adorned with marigolds, poinsettias, and fluttering butterflies. Featuring 18 rooms meticulously crafted by local artisans, this elegant retreat also offers amenities such as Ayurvedic massage services, laundry facilities, and wifi.

Amenities: electricity, Wifi

Temple Tree Resort & Spa

Temple Tree Resort & Spa is a boutique hotel combining western standards with the distinctive architecture and culture of Nepal’s Western Himalayas. Named after the fragrant temple tree plant frangipani found in the area, the Temple Tree offers a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere and attentive service. Nestled close by Fewa Lake in the Pokhara Valley, Temple Tree is framed by the foothills and majestic peaks of the Annapurna Mountain Range.

Amenities: Soap, shampoo, conditioner, hair dryer; electricity; Wifi

Seti River Camp

Accommodation at the camp is in comfortable safari-style tents, each with its own changing room, veranda, and attached bathroom with western-style toilets and hot showers. Tents are set up to have fabulous views of the river. The camp is fully staffed, with a central dining room that provides a veritable feast at each meal. The surrounding countryside is truly magnificent.

Amenities: Soap, shampoo; electricity

Kasara Resort

Accommodations at Kasara Resort are in air-conditioned, twin-bedded, spacious rooms, each with en suite private bathrooms. There is a swimming pool at the resort. Each room comes with a private water-garden courtyard, a private garden, an indoor-outdoor bathroom space, and a sun deck. The resort’s proximity to the national park ensures a close interaction with the nature and the community forests of Chitwan.

Amenities: Soap, shampoo, conditioner, hair dryer; electricity; Wifi

Please note that all amenities were current when written and are subject to change at any time.

If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686