Dhampus Trek 12 Nights 13 Days

Dhampus Trek 12 Nights 13 Days


Location: Nepal
Trip: 12 Nights 13 Days
Max People: 2-15
Duration: 12 Nights 13 Days
Start Location: Kathmandu
End Location: Kathmandu
Region: Annapurna
Max Altitude: 1,940 m
Group Size: 2-15
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

The magic of the Himalayas without sacrificing comfort on the Annapurna Luxury Lodge Trek. This carefully curated journey winds through Nepal’s breathtaking Annapurna region, where snow-capped peaks, terraced hillsides, and cascading waterfalls create a picture-perfect backdrop. By day, trek through rhododendron forests and traditional Gurung villages; by night, retreat to exclusive lodges offering plush bedding, rejuvenating hot showers, and gourmet meals paired with panoramic mountain views. The trek’s crowning moment comes at dawn on Poon Hill, where a short sunrise hike rewards you with golden alpenglow illuminating the entire Annapurna massif. Beyond the stunning landscapes, immerse yourself in local culture through warm interactions with the Magar and Gurung communities. Perfect for those seeking both adventure and indulgence, this trek redefines Himalayan travel by blending world-class hospitality with unforgettable mountain vistas.

Short Itinerary

Title Accommodation Meals
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu Hotel
Day 02: Kathmandu: Sightseeing and Trek Preparation [B/-/] Hotel
Day 03: Drive to Pokhara; trek preparation [B/-/] Hotel
Day 04: Drive to Nayapul; hike to Birethanti [B/-/] Simple Lodge
Day 05: Trek to Ghandruk [B/-/] Simple Lodge
Day 06: Trek to Landruk [B/-/] Simple Lodge
Day 07: Hike to Majgaun [B/-/] Simple Lodge
Day 08: Trek to Dhampus [B/-/] Simple Lodge
Day 09: Trek to Phedi; transfer to Pokhara [B/-/] Hotel
Day 10: Drive Pokhara to Chitwan [B/L/D] Hotel
Day 11: Full-day Jungle Activities [B/L/D] Hotel
Day 12: Fly back to Kathmandu [B/-/] Hotel
Day 13: Final Departure [B]

Tour Program

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After arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport, proceed through immigration and baggage claim. Once cleared up through customs, you'll be met by our representative who will transfer you to your hotel for check-in. We recommend using this free time to acclimate to your new surroundings or visit local points of interest.

Hotel

After breakfast, we'll visit Swayambhunath Stupa, an ancient Buddhist site offering panoramic views. Next, explore Kathmandu Durbar Square's historic temples and palaces. Enjoy lunch featuring Nepali specialties or international dishes before continuing to Patan Durbar Square, renowned for its exquisite Newari architecture.

Swayambhunath: Crowned as Nepal's most ancient Buddhist sanctuary, the revered Swayambhunath Stupa earns its playful nickname "Monkey Temple" from its resident primates. Its white dome, adorned with watchful eyes, overlooks Kathmandu, surrounded by shrines and lively monkeys. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it blends spirituality with breathtaking views.

Kathmandu Durbar Square:  The UNESCO-listed square is a living museum of Newari architecture, featuring palaces like Hanuman Dhoka and temples such as Taleju and Kal Bhairav. The Kumari Ghar, home to the living goddess, adds to its cultural richness, offering a glimpse into Nepal’s royal past.

Patan Durbar Square: A masterpiece in Lalitpur, Patan Durbar Square dazzles with Krishna Mandir’s stone carvings, the Golden Temple’s gilt facade, and Patan Museum’s treasures. This UNESCO site showcases Newari craftsmanship through its temples, courtyards, and intricate woodwork, preserving centuries of artistic heritage.

Hotel
[B/-/]

Your luxury trek begins with a scenic 200km journey through Nepal’s vibrant heartland. Travel in comfort in a private vehicle with large windows to admire the Trisuli River’s rushing turquoise waters and hillside villages where farmers tend emerald rice terraces. Stop for a gourmet lunch at a riverside lodge featuring organic local produce.

As you reach Pokhara by mid-afternoon, your boutique lakeside retreat greets you with chilled eucalyptus towels and signature Himalayan stone massages - the perfect antidote to mountain travels. At sunset, gather for champagne and canapés during your trek briefing, where your expert guide outlines the coming days’ adventures against the backdrop of Fishtail Mountain’s reflection shimmering on Phewa Lake.

Travel Distance: 215 km

 

Driving: 7-8 hrs.

Hotel
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The trek begins with a private morning transfer through Pokhara’s misty valleys, stopping at a local organic farm for fresh-pressed juices. Arriving in Nayapul, your trekking team greets you with steaming towels before you cross the first of many artistically crafted suspension bridges over the roaring Bhurungdi Khola.

The gentle 2-hour hike to Birethanti (1,015m) unfolds like a living cultural exhibit, watch blacksmiths forge kukri knives, farmers thresh rice by hand, and children play in the terraced fields. Your boutique riverside lodge awaits with infinity-edge hot tubs overlooking the Modi Khola’s turquoise waters. As dusk falls, savor a five-course Nepali tasting menu featuring foraged Himalayan herbs while your guide shares stories of the Annapurna sacred valleys.


Hiking: 1-2 hrs. 


Travel Distance: 44 km 


Driving: 1 hr. 30 min

Simple Lodge
[B/-/]

Morning begins with a gentle ascent through emerald rice terraces, where farmers pause to share stories of their ancestral farming techniques. Crossing crystal-clear mountain streams on hand-carved stone bridges, the trail winds upward through rhododendron forests bursting with color (spring) or golden oak canopies (autumn). By midday, the first glimpse of Ghandruk’s slate-roofed homes appears, stacked like stairways up the mountainside.

Your lodge perches on the village edge, its floor-to-ceiling windows framing Annapurna South’s icy flanks. After a private guided tour of the Gurung museum’s traditional artifacts, unwind with a hot stone massage in your suite’s private garden. As dusk falls, the villagers join for an intimate cultural performance, the haunting melodies of sarangi violins accompanying dances passed down through generations. 

 

Hiking: 4-5 hrs.

 

Travel Distance: 8 km

Simple Lodge
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Today morning begins with a gentle descent through whispering bamboo groves, where sunlit trails reveal hidden waterfalls cascading down mossy cliffs. The path then winds along ancient stone staircases through terraced mustard fields, their golden blooms contrasting with the deep greens of the Modi Khola valley below. Stop at a family-run tea house where grandmothers demonstrate traditional wool dyeing using foraged indigo and madder root.

Landruk (1,565m) welcomes you with a luxury lodge carved into the hillside, its infinity pool seemingly merging with the Annapurna range. After a private thangka painting workshop with a local artist, join villagers for an authentic "Rodhi Ghar" evening—a Gurung tradition of storytelling and folk songs accompanied by homemade raksi (millet wine). As fireflies dance in the rhododendron trees, your private balcony offers front-row seats to the Milky Way arching over Fishtail Mountain.

Hiking: 3-4 hrs.

 

Travel Distance: 4 km

Simple Lodge
[B/-/]

Leaving the forest behind, the path descends gently between golden mustard and emerald wheat - nature's perfect color contrast beneath the Himalayan sky. Crossing the Modi Khola on a swaying suspension bridge adorned with prayer flags, we ascend through a hidden valley where langur monkeys chatter in ancient fig trees. The path then winds through emerald rice terraces so perfectly sculpted they resemble giant staircases to the sky.

By midday, Majgaun (1,400m) reveals itself, a cluster of slate-roofed homes nestled among terraced fields. Your luxury lodge blends seamlessly into the landscape, its stone walls and timber beams crafted by local artisans. Unwind with a signature "Himalayan Herbal Soak" in your private garden tub as the sun dips behind Fishtail Mountain. As evening falls, the lodge’s master chef prepares a gourmet tasting menu using heirloom grains and foraged morels from the surrounding hills.

 

Hiking: 3-4 hrs.

Simple Lodge
[B/-/]

Leaving the forest behind, the path descends gently between golden mustard and emerald wheat - nature's perfect color contrast beneath the Himalayan sky. Crossing the Modi Khola on a swaying suspension bridge adorned with prayer flags, we ascend through a hidden valley where langur monkeys chatter in ancient fig trees. The path then winds through emerald rice terraces so perfectly sculpted they resemble giant staircases to the sky.

By midday, Majgaun (1,400m) reveals itself, a cluster of slate-roofed homes nestled among terraced fields. Your luxury lodge blends seamlessly into the landscape, its stone walls and timber beams crafted by local artisans. Unwind with a signature "Himalayan Herbal Soak" in your private garden tub as the sun dips behind Fishtail Mountain. As evening falls, the lodge’s master chef prepares a gourmet tasting menu using heirloom grains and foraged morels from the surrounding hills.

 

Hiking: 3-4 hrs.

Simple Lodge
[B/-/]

The morning descent from Dhampus winds through sun-dappled oak forests alive with birdsong, the trail carpeted with fallen rhododendron petals. Passing through traditional villages, farmers pause from winnowing grain to offer cups of steaming chiya, their warm smiles a final taste of mountain hospitality. At Phedi, your private transfer awaits with chilled towels and fresh mango smoothies for the scenic drive back to Pokhara.

Arriving at your lakeside sanctuary by midday, the infinity pool’s glass edge creates the illusion of swimming toward Machhapuchhre's iconic peak. Spend your royal finale indulging in a signature "Himalayan Stone Massage" at the spa, then toast your journey with sunset cocktails on the terrace as Phewa Lake mirrors the alpenglow dancing on Annapurna’s snows.

 

Hiking: 2 hrs.

 

Travel Distance: 47 km

Driving: 1 hr. 30 Min

Hotel
[B/-/]

The open road calls as you leave Pokhara’s misty peaks behind, trading mountain vistas for the wild allure of Chitwan. The Mahendra Highway unfolds like a ribbon through rural Nepal, 160 km of vibrant villages, golden fields, and the occasional wandering buffalo. Five hours melt away as the landscape shifts, the air thickens, and the promise of adventure hums beneath the jungle’s whisper.

Arrival feels like stepping into another world. A chilled welcome drink soothes the dust of the journey, but the real magic comes at dusk. Under a starlit sky, the Tharu cultural performance erupts in a riot of drumbeats and swirling colors, their stories echoing ancient ties to this untamed land. The jungle watches, silent but alive, tomorrow’s mysteries waiting just beyond the firelight.

 

Travel Distance: 160 km

 

Driving: 5- 6 hours.

Hotel
[B/L/D]

After breakfast, embark on a full-day jungle safari through Chitwan National Park, where you might spot rhinos, tigers, and exotic birds in their natural habitat.

 Begin your day early with an exciting jungle safari at Chitwan National Park, choosing a Jeep safari for a deeper adventure into the wilderness. Guided by experienced naturalists, explore the rich biodiversity of the park, keeping watch for the one-horned rhinoceros, deer, monkeys, and numerous bird species. Morning is ideal for wildlife viewing, as animals are more active in the cool hours. After the safari, visit the Elephant Breeding Center to observe baby elephants and learn about conservation efforts. Gain valuable insights into the lives of Asian elephants and the challenges they face in their natural habitat, a truly enriching experience.

Hotel
[B/L/D]

After breakfast, embark on a scenic 1-hour drive (31.6km) to Bharatpur. From here, board a 20-minute domestic flight covering the 90km aerial distance to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, enjoy a leisurely afternoon at your hotel, unwind by the pool, indulge in a spa treatment, or simply relax in your room. This easy travel day offers the perfect transition from jungle adventures to urban comforts, leaving you refreshed for Kathmandu's cultural explorations.

 

Flight: 25min

Hotel
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On your final day, enjoy a leisurely morning before we transfer you to Tribhuvan Airport with ample time for check-in. As Kathmandu fades below the wingtips, carry Nepal's magic in your memories until we welcome you back.

[B]

Tour Includes

  • Our representative will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your booked hotel. 
  • 03 nights hotel stay – Kathmandu, in a double or twin room with a bed and breakfast plan. 
  • 1-night stay in a hotel in Pokhara on a bed and breakfast plan in a double or twin room. 
  • 6 nights in Simple Lodge (includes breakfast and necessary trekking staff) 
  • 1-night stay at Hotel Chitwan in a double/twin room with JP plan 
  • Your trek will be accompanied by English-speaking local staff and porters (1 porter for every 2 guests, carrying up to 30 kg). 
  • All ground transportation will be carried out according to the itinerary in a private, air-conditioned vehicle equipped with bottled water and wet wipes. 
  • TIMS card.

Tour Excludes

  • Nepal visa fees 
  • Domestic and international airfares and taxes. Separately cited. 
  • Meals not listed in the itinerary.  
  • Snacks, tips, bottled drinks, and bar bill. 
  • All types of insurance and rescue. 
  • Costs incurred due to flight cancellations/road blockages/landslides, and reasons beyond our control.  
  • Personal and other expenses are not included in the above costs. 
  • Tips for hiking staff, hiking guides, city guides, and drivers. 
  • Excess baggage charges 
  • Personal Insurance – Comprehensive travel insurance is recommended to cover travel and flight cancellations, loss of valuables, theft, illness, accidents, and hospitalization.  
  • Replenish your food supply while hiking. Freshly ground coffee and Darjeeling tea were brought to us. 
  • Entrance fees to the monuments listed in the program above. 

It’s a comfortable trekking experience in the Annapurna region of Nepal that combines scenic mountain walks with overnight stays in high-end lodges offering private rooms, hot showers, and gourmet meals, ideal for those who want adventure without roughing it.

The trek is rated easy to moderate. Daily walking hours range from 2 to 5 hours with well-marked trails. It’s suitable for beginners with a reasonable fitness level and no prior trekking experience.

The highest point of the trek is Ghandruk at 1,940 meters (6,365 feet), which is safe from altitude sickness for most people.

The best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) for clear mountain views and comfortable weather. Winter is possible but colder, and monsoon (June–August) is not recommended due to rain.

You will stay in luxury lodges during the trek, offering private rooms, en-suite bathrooms, hot showers, and quality meals. In Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan, you’ll stay in high-standard hotels or resorts.

Not usually. The trek stays below 2,000 meters, which is generally considered a low risk for altitude-related issues.

Pack comfortable trekking clothes, hiking boots, a daypack, sunscreen, a hat, and a water bottle. Since porters carry your main bag, keep essentials like a jacket, snacks, and a camera in your daypack.

Yes. You’ll need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card. These are usually arranged by your tour operator.

Yes! The gentle pace and luxury accommodations make it suitable for families, seniors, or travelers who prefer comfort with moderate activity.

You’ll enjoy a jeep safari in Chitwan National Park, visit the Elephant Breeding Center, and experience a Tharu cultural dance performance. Accommodation, meals, and activities are usually included.

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Things to know

1. Moderate Trekking with Comfort
This trek is suitable for travelers with a moderate fitness level. Daily hikes range from 2 to 5 hours and are designed to be leisurely. The key highlight is staying in luxury lodges with private rooms, hot showers, and excellent meals, making it a comfortable way to experience the Himalayas.
 
2. Rich Cultural Encounters
Along the route, you'll interact with Gurung and Magar communities, known for their hospitality, unique traditions, and heritage. Villages like Ghandruk and Landruk offer immersive cultural experiences, local museums, and traditional architecture.
 
3. Chitwan Safari Extension
This itinerary includes a Chitwan National Park visit after the trek—perfect for wildlife enthusiasts. You can spot rhinos, deer, birds, and possibly tigers during the jeep safari. The Tharu cultural show adds a vibrant finish to your jungle adventure.
 
4. Best Seasons to Go
The best time for this trek is autumn (Sept–Nov) and spring (Mar–May), offering clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and blooming rhododendrons. Winters are quieter but colder; monsoon season (June–Aug) is less ideal due to rain and leeches.
 
5. Light Packing Required
Since you’ll be staying in comfort lodges, there’s no need for heavy camping gear. A good pair of hiking boots, layered clothing, sun protection, and a daypack are essential. Porters usually carry your main luggage, so you only need to carry the daily essentials.

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