Nepal tour with the Chepang Hills trek

Upon landing at Kathmandu International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our local representative. During the drive to your hotel, you’ll get your first glimpse of the capital: colourful markets, bustling streets and the scent of spices in the air. Depending on your arrival time, you may have time for a short stroll around the neighbourhood or enjoy a quiet cup of tea in the garden. In the evening, you’ll meet our team and receive an initial introduction to the journey ahead.

Today you’ll immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Kathmandu Valley. You’ll visit the iconic Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple, with its fluttering prayer flags and stunning views over the city. Afterwards, you’ll visit the Hindu shrine of Pashupatinath, where pilgrims perform rituals along the sacred Bagmati River. Finally, you’ll admire the impressive Bouddhanath stupa, one of the largest in the world. Along the way, your guide will tell you more about the traditions and way of life of the Nepalese, so that you don’t just see the places, but truly understand them.

After a picturesque drive through green valleys and past small villages, you’ll reach the starting point of the Chepang Hills trek. The walk to Kaule Village takes you past terraced fields of rice and maize, offering views of the surrounding hills along the way. In the village, you will be welcomed by your host family and experience daily village life up close. Together with the family, you will cook a traditional dinner over a wood fire – a unique opportunity to discover the flavours of Chepang cuisine and share stories with your hosts.

Early risers can climb to the summit of Siraichuli, a vantage point where the Himalayas are visible in all their glory at sunrise. You then continue your route through forests and hills, passing through small villages where children come out to greet you with curiosity. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to learn more about the Chepang community and their unique way of life in harmony with nature. In Chauki Danda, another welcoming homestay awaits, where a simple but hearty meal and a cosy evening will round off your day.

The final day of hiking takes you downhill to Siddi. The trail winds through forests and past babbling brooks, and you’ll pass small waterfalls where you can stop for a moment’s rest. Once you arrive in Siddi, you’ll say goodbye to your host family and the Chepang Hills. A jeep will take you to Chitwan, where you’ll check into a charming lodge on the edge of the national park. After a long day’s walking, it’s wonderful to relax over a candlelit dinner whilst listening to the sounds of the jungle.

Today you’ll discover the unique natural beauty of Chitwan. In the morning, you’ll board a traditional wooden canoe and glide gently along the Rapti River, where you can spot crocodiles on the banks and watch colourful kingfishers skimming the water’s surface. Afterwards, you’ll explore the jungle on foot with a guide and learn more about plants, animal tracks and behaviour. In the afternoon, you’ll go on a jeep safari through the park, increasing your chances of seeing rhinos, monkeys and perhaps even a leopard.

After breakfast, you’ll head to Pokhara, one of Nepal’s most beloved cities. The journey takes you past rivers, green hills and villages where daily life flows peacefully by. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you’ll check in at your lakeside hotel and have the afternoon free to explore the city. Take a stroll along the promenade, hire a boat on Lake Phewa or enjoy a coffee with a view of the snow-capped mountain peaks. In the evening, you can take part in the Aarti ceremony, a religious ritual featuring singing and dancing on the shores of the lake.

Today you’ll take an inspiring walk to the village of Pandeli, near Sarangkot. Along the way, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Annapurna range and the surrounding valleys. In Pandeli, you’ll meet local coffee farmers and learn more about the traditional cultivation of Himalayan coffee. You’ll have lunch featuring organic local produce, freshly prepared by the villagers. This day offers a lovely balance between nature, interaction with the local people and sampling authentic flavours.

Today you’ll take an inspiring walk to the village of Pandeli, near Sarangkot. Along the way, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Annapurna range and the surrounding valleys. In Pandeli, you’ll meet local coffee farmers and learn more about the traditional cultivation of Himalayan coffee. You’ll have lunch featuring organic local produce, freshly prepared by the villagers. This day offers a lovely balance between nature, interaction with the local people and sampling authentic flavours.

In the morning, you’ll learn how to make momos, the much-loved Nepalese dumplings, in a Tibetan refugee camp. You’ll roll out the dough, fill the dumplings and steam them until they’re perfectly cooked. After this culinary experience, you’ll travel to a monastery near Pokhara. Here, you’ll experience the peace and serenity of monastic life. You’ll dine in silence with the monks and can attend part of their evening ritual – a special experience that will stay with you for a long time to come.

After breakfast, you’ll set off for Bandipur, a charming little town perched on a ridge with stunning views of the Himalayas. The town centre is car-free and is full of traditional Newari houses. Stroll through the narrow streets, visit the small temples and sample local delicacies in one of the squares. In the evening, you can enjoy a spectacular sunset from the hilltop and soak up the friendly atmosphere of this little town.

Today you’ll head back towards the Kathmandu Valley and visit Patan, also known as the ‘City of Artisans’. The old town is full of temples and palaces that transport you back to the time of the kings. You’ll stroll past Durbar Square and visit workshops where artisans still use centuries-old techniques. Patan is the perfect place to discover the artistic soul of Nepal.

The day begins in Kirtipur, a peaceful hilltop town steeped in Newari tradition. Here you’ll find ancient temples, narrow streets and an authentic atmosphere. You then travel on to Bhaktapur, Nepal’s best-preserved medieval town. Stroll through the squares, admire the pagodas and sample the famous local yoghurt, ‘juju dhau’. This day offers a glimpse into the valley’s ancient art and culture.

After two weeks full of discoveries and encounters, it is time to say goodbye. You will be taken to the airport for your return flight. You will take with you memories of the villages’ hospitality, the stunning natural scenery and the unique Chepang Hills trek – a travel experience you will never forget.

You’ll only need to bring a small daypack with your personal belongings. Your larger suitcase or bag will be safely stored in the transport or at your hotel. During the Chepang Hills trek, a porter will carry everything you need for the trek; you can also leave the rest safely at the hotel.

Sturdy walking boots with good tread are essential. Paths in the Chepang Hills can be muddy or steep.

Layering is ideal. It can get warm during the day, whilst it can cool down considerably in the hills in the evening. If you’re travelling during the winter months, it’s best to pack a winter coat for the evenings.

You will be staying in simple homestays offering basic amenities. There is a modern bathroom with a Western-style toilet. What makes this experience special is the hospitality of the Chepang families and the chance to experience their way of life up close.

Most meals are included during the Chepang Hills trek and in Chitwan. In cities such as Kathmandu and Pokhara, you can choose from the many restaurants available.

Always drink bottled water or use a water filter. You can have your water bottle filled with drinking water at any accommodation. Bring basic medication for stomach and gut problems and use insect repellent.

You will be travelling by private transport with a driver. Please bear in mind that journey times may be longer due to the mountain roads, but there is plenty to see and do along the way.

Spring (March–May) and autumn (October–November) are ideal. The air is clear, the temperatures are pleasant and there is little chance of rain. December and January are also perfectly suitable.

The Chepang speak very little English, but a smile, a few basic words of Nepali and an open attitude go a long way towards building a connection. Your host does speak basic English.

Yes. In Pokhara and Bandipur, you’ll have some free time to enjoy a boat trip, a bike ride or an extra walk, for example. You can arrange this in advance or on the spot.