Duration
11 days / 10 nights
Price Per Person
Destinations

This 11-day itinerary blends cultural immersion, breathtaking landscapes, and luxurious comfort. Begin in Kathmandu, exploring ancient temples and lively markets while staying in Dwarka's Hotel, Kathmandu. Continue to picturesque Pokhara, where serene lakes and Himalayan views set the stage for relaxation. Then journey into the remote and mystical regions of both Upper and Lower Mustang, a land of dramatic cliffs, ancient monasteries, and the former Forbidden Kingdom of Lo, with a stay at the luxurious Shinta Mani Mustang, developed by renowned designer Bill Bensley. 

This itinerary is an example. It’s designed to inspire you and provide you with thoughtfully curated ideas. You can choose to do this exact itinerary or completely personalize it. All trips are 100% bespoke.

Highlights

  • Annapurna Range: After flying from the picturesque city of Pokhara to the high altitude of Jomsom, travelers begin their long trek in earnest to see Chhusang, Ghami, and over Nyi La Pass at the edge of Mustang, found 13,000 feet above sea level.
  • Mustang: A true travel frontier in Nepal, this hard-to-reach area of the country features some of the most dramatic landscapes in the region, filled with medieval forts, caves, and culture.
  • World-Class Accommodation: Travelers will find plush accommodations such as Dwarika’s Hotel in Kathmandu, and Shinta Mani Mustang, developed by renowned designer Bill Bensley, a perfectly positioned base and haven for experiencing the hidden gems of Lower Mustang.

Day-by-Day

Day 1

Kathmandu

After a memorable arrival at Kathmandu’s dramatic airport – surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas in every direction – meet with a tour representative who is on hand to help with visa formalities. Next, transfer to your hotel in the capital before getting debriefed on the tour’s itinerary. Spend the rest of the day relaxing at the hotel or checking out your new surroundings at your own leisure.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: Dwarika's Hotel, Kathmandu, one of Kathmandu, Nepal’s most stunning pieces of architecture, sits within walking distance of the famous Pashupatinath temple, while also being just a short drive away from the airport.

History: The hotel hosts an impressive array of artifacts dating back as far back as the 13th century. The area itself is also teeming with ancient culture, with an impressive history that spans two millennia.

Service: Guests will love the warmth of traditional Nepalese hospitality for which this hotel is widely-praised.

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Dwarika's Hotel, Kathmandu Preferred Hotel

Day 2

Kathmandu

Wake up in time for breakfast at the hotel, heading out in the morning for sightseeing trips around Kathmandu city, Swayambhunath, and Patan. Around the capital, your guide shows you the famous Durbar Square – home to several of the city’s key temples, monuments, palaces, and courtyards. Venturing just outside of town, admire the brilliant 2,000-year-old ‘Swayambhunath’ Buddhist stupa, as well as another stunning historical square three miles away at Patan, which holds dozens of Buddhist and Hindu temples – the highlight being a three-story 12th-century monastery overlooking the hills.

Kathmandu
Kathmandu

Day 3

Pokhara

Today, you’ll depart Kathmandu and head to the Pokhara, a large city beside Phewa Lake, known for its incredible beauty and views of the Himalayan mountains. Enjoy a casual lunch and then take in some of the local sites, like the Bindebasini Temple and the Gurkha Memorial Museum, which honors the contributions Gurkhali soldiers made in the world. In the afternoon visit the hilltop World Peace Pagoda. Enjoy dinner at your hotel at the Tiger Mountain Lodge.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: Located on top of a majestic mountain in one of Nepal’s most stunning regions, with the Himalayas as a backdrop, this area offers views of a lifetime in a setting that is the stuff of dreams.

History: The area was only accessible by foot until the first road was built in 1968 when a highway was constructed, tourism grew rapidly shortly after the opening. The region is homed to three out of ten of the worlds tallest mountains meaning its is a haven for mountain trekkers and adventures alike.

Service: If guests are looking for a little bit of an extra special touch perhaps they will look to some dining within the comforts of their lodge, as you wait on server brings the finest nepalese dishes to your veranda simply relax and take in the natural beauty of Nepal.

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Tiger Mountain Lodge Preferred Hotel

Day 4

Jomsom

Begin your day with an early morning flight to Jomsom. Upon arrival your BENSLEY guide will escort you to Shinta Mani Mustang. At 2,800m, the resort is among the few places in Nepal where giant Himalayan peaks can be admired at such close proximity. Take this day to adjust to the high altitude. Unwind and rejuvenate with some pampering in the resort’s spa or enjoy the resort’s serene surroundings which offer the perfect opportunity for a leisurely walk, enjoying the magnificent views and discovering the facilities the resort has to offer. Depending on your energy level, hike and/or drive to Marpha, stopping to visit monasteries and points of interest with a Thakali cuisine lunch where you will meet the proprietor who is a well-known Thakali chef.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: Known as The Forbidden Kingdom and a gateway to Tibet, this magical and spiritual destination affords dramatic landscapes with some of the highest snow-capped peaks in the world, and is rich in Buddhist culture with many monasteries.

Activities: Guests receive a highly personalized privately guided experience honoring the traditions of Sherpa hospitality. These include unique cultural excursions, trekking, horse riding, rock climbing, cycling, archery, hiking, helicopter tours and wellness.

Service: Your personal Bensley Butler are always available to provide guests with world-class service and a genuine smile.

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Shinta Mani Mustang - A Bensley Collection Preferred Hotel
Jomsom
Jomsom

Day 5

Jomsom

After breakfast take a 1-hour drive to the historical Tibetan village of Jharkot where you will embark on a hike into the valley, through ancient orchards, crossing suspension bridges and ascending the opposite side to ancient Jhong village. Tour a traditional home and enjoy a freshly prepared lunch by the Shinta Mani culinary team at the monastery, set against the backdrop of 360-degree breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and majestic mountains. After the meal, choose between an exhilarating mountain biking adventure down a less traveled trail or a comfortable jeep ride towards Kagbeni village, the gateway to Upper Mustang. Here, visit the Kag Chode Thupten Samphel Ling Monastery, an important Buddhist site, attracting visitors interested in Buddhism and its teachings. This day blends history, culture, adventure, and natural beauty, providing an immersive experience of the Nepal countryside. If you seek an even more enriching cultural experience, you can include an optional tour of the revered Muktinath Hindu pilgrimage site (requiring a 2-hour earlier departure from the hotel). The highlight of the Muktinath visit is the sacred 108 fountains, also known as Mukti Dhara. According to Hindu belief, bathing in these fountains washes away one’s sins and brings salvation. Hence, we recommend bringing your bathing suit to partake in this unique spiritual ritual.

Day 6

Jomsom

Spend the day trekking to the beautiful Chhyama Lake, an alpine glacial lake at the base of Nilgiri Himal. The Nilgiri Himal is a range of three peaks in the Annapurna massif in Nepal. It is composed of Nilgiri North (7061 m), Nilgiri Central (6940 m), and Nilgiri South (6839 m). Once at the lake your guide will prepare a proper “alpine backpacking lunch”. On the return to the lodge, you will stop for a walking tour of Thini Village, renowned for its traditional architecture, which showcases the unique blend of Tibetan and Nepali influences found in the Mustang region. The village is characterized by stone houses with flat roofs, intricately carved wooden windows and doors, and white-washed walls. From here you can choose to trek back to the lodge on foot or go by car.

Jomsom
Jomsom

Day 7

Jomsom

Today you’ll further explore the Jomsom Valley, journeying through carefully selected sites based on conditions for an optimal outdoor experience. Traverse rugged landscapes, cross streams, and navigate forests, while admiring the breathtaking views of the snowcapped Himalaya and lush surroundings. You’ll have many opportunities to stop at vantage points that capture the panoramic views of this landscape. Midway through the trek, pause for a mountaineer-inspired picnic to rest and refuel amidst the valley’s beauty. Enjoy high-energy foods, a glass of chilled Rosé, and the unique experience of dining in the wilderness. Continue your exploration post-lunch, concluding your trek back at the starting point. Return to the lodge for leisure time.

Day 8

Mustang

This morning you will begin a 10-hour drive that includes touring of some of the highlights as you make your way to Lo Manthang. En-route, visit Tangbe village, known for its black, white, and red chortens; Chhusang, with its narrow alleys and cave-dwelling cliffs; and the Nyi-La Pass (3,950 meters), offering stunning views of Nilgiri and Annapurna. Continue through Ghami, the third-largest village in Lo, and visit the sacred 308-meter long Mani wall. A detour to Dragmar reveals a picturesque valley, with contrasting pastel hills and a dramatic red cliff. Ascend to the Chingye-La pass (3,870 meters) before reaching the village of Tsarang, surrounded by fields and stone walls. Finally, enjoy a view of the walled city of Lomanthang from a ridge at 3,850 meters, marking the end of the day’s journey.

Hotel Options
About

Located outside the walls of Lo Manthang, a former capital of the Mustang region dating back to the 14th century, rests the Royal Mustang Resort at nearly 4000 meters above sea level. The heirs of past royalty constructed the opulent hotel with the assistance of a Japanese architect by the name of Kurumitsawa.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Mustang
Mustang

Day 9

Mustang

Today will be a fascinating exploration of the area’s rich history and stunning landscapes. Begin with a visit to the main walled city of Lo Manthang, including its ancient monasteries. Next, take a scenic excursion to the Korala Pass for a breathtaking view of the Tibetan plateau. Continue with a short drive to Choser village, where you can explore the remarkable 2,500-year-old cave dwellings, accessed by ladders and small tunnels—an unforgettable experience.

Day 10

Kathmandu

This morning you will take a helicopter return to Jomson and on to Pokhara. Another commercial flight takes you back to Kathmandu, arriving back in the city with plenty of time left some more sightseeing on this penultimate day. Your guide takes you on to see the gorgeous 1,600-year-old temple at Pashupatinath, as well as the world-famous Boudhanath monument – one of the largest of its type in the whole country.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: Dwarika's Hotel, Kathmandu, one of Kathmandu, Nepal’s most stunning pieces of architecture, sits within walking distance of the famous Pashupatinath temple, while also being just a short drive away from the airport.

History: The hotel hosts an impressive array of artifacts dating back as far back as the 13th century. The area itself is also teeming with ancient culture, with an impressive history that spans two millennia.

Service: Guests will love the warmth of traditional Nepalese hospitality for which this hotel is widely-praised.

See Hotel
Dwarika's Hotel, Kathmandu Preferred Hotel
Kathmandu
Kathmandu

Day 11

Departure

Have breakfast at your hotel in Kathmandu before packing your bags and checking out. A representative is on hand to show you on to the international airport where you’ll catch a flight to your next destination of choice.

Suggested Hotel For Days 1–2

Dwarika's Hotel, Kathmandu
Preferred Hotel

Dwarika's Hotel, Kathmandu

Located just outside Kathmandu, near Pashupatinath, Nepal’s most sacred mountain, Dwarika’s Hotel, Kathmandu is the recipient of a prestigious World Heritage Award given for outstanding historical preservation. The 80 guest rooms and suites are decorated with intricately carved wood and terracotta work in the traditional Newari style and are equipped with wi-fi access. Krishnarpan, one of the hotel’s two restaurants, offers six- to 22-course authentic Nepali meals, Toran has Chinese and Indian specialties, while Fusion has live blues and jazz in a bar setting. Dwarika’s Hotel, Kathmandu has a spa with massage treatments and a swimming pool. The business center is fully equipped with broadband Internet access and secretarial services. The hotel is approximately a 10-minute drive from the airport in Kathmandu.

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Suggested Hotel For Day 3

Tiger Mountain Lodge
Preferred Hotel

Tiger Mountain Lodge

Tiger Mountain Lodge is located on a hilltop ridge a thousand feet above the Pokhara Valley and just a half hour drive from town. With spectacular views of the Annapurna Range, the lodge has also been touched by history: Sir Edmund Hilary, the first man to scale Everest, led the hotel’s opening ceremony in 1998. The 19 rooms are arranged around the hilltop in hand-cut stone bungalows that blend into their surroundings. All the bungalows have spacious verandas, adjoining bathrooms, and elegantly traditional décor that blends Tibetan hand-knotted wool carpets with British watercolor wall paintings. The lodge offers a range of in-room massage treatments, personal yoga sessions, and meditation training. There is a mountain-view swimming pool for post-hike relaxation. The hotel serves organic produce and locally supplied products, including at its authentic Nepali lunch buffet, and at the dinner with a table d’hôte menu that features European and Nepali selections. The Main Lodge has a cozy central fireplace, comfortable seating areas, and a bar, arranged around a Nepali-style courtyard. Another special feature of the lodge is Colonel Jimmy's Library, with an impressive collection of Himalayan mountaineering literature and photographs. There is no business center. The hotel is located 40 minutes from Pokhara Airport.

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Suggested Hotel For Days 4–6

Shinta Mani Mustang - A Bensley Collection
Preferred Hotel

Shinta Mani Mustang - A Bensley Collection

Designed by Bill Bensley, Shinta Mani Mustang perches high above the town of Jomsom at the gateway of Mustang, an isolated kingdom in Nepal that was once forbidden to outsiders for centuries. Each of its 29 environmentally-friendly guest rooms are designed using local materials and based on traditional Tibetan homes with the interiors adorned with locally-sourced, soft natural fabrics and upcycled unique furniture. The well-appointed rooms feature huge floor-to-ceiling windows delivering panoramic views, and an open-plan bedroom combined with a living area and a separate full bathroom. For dining, the Nilgiri Restaurant offers modern Nepali and western cuisine using locally sourced and foraged produce for indoor or al fresco dining from the large outdoor patio, while also providing dramatic views of its namesake mountain. Delicious cocktails are served in the Aara Bar, named after the local Tibetan/Sherpa liquor. For pampering, guests can relax at the wellness center which offers two treatment suites with floor to ceiling windows facing the mountains; each with a hot plunge pool, steam room, sauna, shower and massage beds. The hotel provides an all-inclusive experience, in which the guests’ journey is curated to provide the most remarkable 360-degree luxury experience in one of the most unique and preserved regions in the world with activities such as mountain biking, hiking, archery and horse riding as well as cultural exploration to ancient villages, sky caves, and temples.
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Suggested Hotel For Days 8–9

Royal Mustang Resort

Royal Mustang Resort

Located outside the walls of Lo Manthang, a former capital of the Mustang region dating back to the 14th century, rests the Royal Mustang Resort at nearly 4000 meters above sea level. The heirs of past royalty constructed the opulent hotel with the assistance of a Japanese architect by the name of Kurumitsawa. Today, the hotel provides superior comfort in an otherwise intimidating environment. Its 20 rooms and suites are cleanly designed with wooden floors, lattice screens, simple artworks, and wide, inviting beds. Additionally, they are heated and hot water is reliable. The kitchen is supplied by an organic farm and offers a seasonal menu with Tibetan and international dishes. There is a collection of wines, spirits, and beers available for guests as well. Wi-Fi is available and 15% of the resort’s income is donated to cultural preservation.

Suggested Hotel For Day 10

Dwarika's Hotel, Kathmandu
Preferred Hotel

Dwarika's Hotel, Kathmandu

Located just outside Kathmandu, near Pashupatinath, Nepal’s most sacred mountain, Dwarika’s Hotel, Kathmandu is the recipient of a prestigious World Heritage Award given for outstanding historical preservation. The 80 guest rooms and suites are decorated with intricately carved wood and terracotta work in the traditional Newari style and are equipped with wi-fi access. Krishnarpan, one of the hotel’s two restaurants, offers six- to 22-course authentic Nepali meals, Toran has Chinese and Indian specialties, while Fusion has live blues and jazz in a bar setting. Dwarika’s Hotel, Kathmandu has a spa with massage treatments and a swimming pool. The business center is fully equipped with broadband Internet access and secretarial services. The hotel is approximately a 10-minute drive from the airport in Kathmandu.

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Exclusively Asia

With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.

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Three Couples - Montreal, Canada

Three Couples - Montreal, Canada

We especially enjoyed meeting the business people in Kathmandu and the professor in Paro which we could never have done on a regular tour.

Bhutan, Nepal

A family from Norway

A family from Norway

Everything was excellent. Another Remote Lands trip in a few weeks!

India, Nepal, Bhutan, Thailand

A couple from Texas

A couple from Texas

My wife and I traveled to Nepal with Remote Lands, and had an incredible time. This was our fourth trip with Remote Lands and the trip was planned perfectly with every detail accounted for.

Nepal

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