Embark on a comprehensive day of guided exploration to acquaint ourself with the captivating Kathmandu Valley. Our appointed expert will meet us in the hotel lobby, and we'll be chauffeured in a private vehicle to three notable UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Commence our journey in Patan, also known as Lalitpur, a historical hub of fine arts. Patan Durbar Square unveils beautifully restored temple and palace complexes. Following this, we'll encounter Boudhanath, the world's largest stupa, adorned with four pairs of eyes symbolizing vigilance over moral conduct and human well-being. Surrounded by the residences of Buddhist priests, monasteries, and businesses, the stupa stands on an octagonal base with integrated prayer wheels. Conclude our day at Pashupatinath, one of Hinduism's holiest shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, believed to be his birthplace. A constant flow of sadhus, Hindu pilgrims from India and other parts of Nepal, converges at this significant temple. Positioned on the banks of the revered Bagmati River, Pashupatinath serves as a primary Hindu cremation site in the Kathmandu Valley, with cremation ghats encircling the lake's edge.

This morning, we'll be chauffeured to the local airport for your flight to Pokhara. Brace ourself for a mesmerizing 30-minute journey along the Himalayan Range, where we'll be treated to breathtaking views of four of the world's colossal mountains towering above 26,247 feet (8,000 m): Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Manaslu, and Shishapangma. Upon landing in the charming lakeside town of Pokhara, the rest of the day is yours to either unwind at your hotel or explore the surroundings.

Pokhara offers a myriad of activities to cater to various preferences. Whether you fancy a leisurely boat ride on the lake, a hike to the World Peace Pagoda for stunning Himalayan vistas, a visit to Tibetan refugee communities for unique handicrafts, or a bike ride along the lakeshore, the options are plentiful. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, there's the opportunity to try zip-lining, mountain biking, tandem paragliding with a trained pilot, or embark on a vintage Enfield motorcycle tour. The town boasts numerous delightful stores, yoga studios, and lakeside cafés for a leisurely stroll, providing ample opportunities to soak in the scenic beauty. While lunch and dinner are at our discretion, our local experts are more than happy to recommend top-notch restaurants if we seek suggestions. We enjoy our time in Pokhara, embracing the diverse activities and the serenity it has to offer.

Today, we'll take a breathtaking mountain flight to Jomsom, Mustang's administrative hub. An early departure ensures our witness stunning vistas as we ascend to this unique destination. Explore the town upon arrival before heading to Kagbeni for the night. The trail offers panoramic views of nearby peaks, including Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. No rush to leave Jomsom, as the trek to Kagbeni takes only a few hours. Kagbeni, the final town in Lower Mustang, overlooks the Kali Gandaki and Jhong Khola rivers, serving as the gateway to Upper Mustang. Despite stony mountains, Kagbeni boasts lush greenery, tunnels, and the 800-year-old Sayka Gompa. Don't miss the dilapidated King's Palace with 100 rooms. Today's trek is 3-4 hours, allowing us to absorb Kagbeni's beauty at a comfortable pace.

The morning entails a scenic upriver journey through Upper Mustang's restricted area. Chuksang, at 9,678 feet (2,950 m), features a crumbling dzong and ancient cave settlements. Crossing a thrilling bridge over the Kali Gandaki, the cultural shift to a Tibetan influence is evident with sheep horns and protective Zor amulets. The route takes you to Samar, a former staging area for Khampa movements, passing through Shyangmochen ("the Truck Stop") to Geling. Geling showcases old gompas, meditation caves, and typical Mustangi homes amidst barley fields. From Geling, ascend to Nyi La, contour around to Ghami, a captivating village with narrow alleys and homes surrounded by tall walls. Ghami serves as our overnight stay before continuing on foot the next day.

This morning, our journey starts at Tangmar Chu river's bridge. Passing through the tri-colored stupas of the Kingdom of Lo, we'll encounter Nepal's longest mani wall with views of ochre, blue, and steel-grey cliffs. Dhakmar, nestled under massive red cliffs, is reached after passing through old chortens and colorful cliffs. The area holds significance in the introduction of Buddhism to Tibet, with the landscape reflecting a tale of triumph over demons. An extraordinary ascent from Dhakmar leads to a summit with views of Dhakmar Valley, offering untamed scenery. Descending to Marang and Tsarang, we'll encounter Lo Gekar and Ghar Gompa, built by Guru Rinpoche. Ghar Gompa, the first Tibetan Buddhist monastery, holds historical importance. After lunch, we'll travel down the valley towards Tsarang, passing through the old town, crossing a river, and going through a chorten. Tsarang, a sizable community built atop Tsarang Khola canyon, features the five-story Tsarang Dzong, a fortified palace, and the ochre-hued Tsarang Gompa with Lo's largest library. Take a stroll through the trails to witness the local life and twilight setting in.

Walking time: Approx 6-7 hours.

This morning, depart Tsarang and descend the trail crossing Tsarang Khola. After a challenging ascent to a cairn on the opposite ridge, continue on the fresh dirt road along Thuling Khola towards Lo. Marvel at the Tibetan-like landscape with vast desert expanses and multicolored canyons. Approaching Lo La at 12,992 feet (3,960 meters), catch glimpses of distant snow-capped peaks. Pass through the rock tunnel adorned with colorful prayer flags from Tibet at the pass. Climb the ridge for stunning views down to Lo Manthang and the "Plain of Aspiration" below. Take a short trip today to explore Lo Manthang. Access to the walled city is restricted, limited to the King, Queen, and Kempo (Abbot). Others pay respects at the Chenrezig statue. Inside the walls, discover four important temples: Jampa Lhakhang (built in 1387), housing a 50-foot-tall clay figure of "Jamba"; 15th-century Thubchen Gompa; Chhoede Gompa, residence of the Khempo; and Choprang Gompa. Explore the maze-like village of current Kings Palace and the fascinating surroundings.

In the morning, explore the ancient city's monasteries. The best time for this is in the morning when the light is good for viewing religious artwork. Remember, photography inside the monasteries is usually not allowed unless you have formal permission, so bring a flashlight just in case. In the afternoon, check out the interesting surroundings of Lo. We can ride a horse to relax and explore the city streets. Discover the two schools, two new stores, a coffee shop, and the Tibetan herbal medicine clinic run by an Amchi in the community. Another option is to go up the valley northwest of Lo to Namgyal Gompa, a monastery perched above a barren ridge. Its design is different from the monasteries in Lo. If we follow the stream and climb through irrigated fields, we'll reach the extensive settlement of Thinggar, where the King's summer palace is located, along with historic forts, monasteries, and ruins.

Today, leave Lo Manthang via a broad canyon track, passing dry gullies and an old deserted castle. Head to the deep-red Gharphu Gompa carved into the rock face in Chosar's cave town. This gompa focuses on teaching young initiates the basics of monasticism, so we might encounter some charming students. Explore the 2,500-year-old Jhong Cave behind the gompa, accessible by descending ladders and passing through tiny tunnels. The trail features bubbling streams, lush meadows, and views of the small peaks that mark Tibet's border. Enjoy the Himalayan vistas on the way back to Lo, with a special focus on Annapurna, Tilicho, and Nilgiri.

Walking time: Approx 4-5 hours

Heading south from Lo Manthang, embark on a new journey by returning towards Tsarang. Take a shorter detour leading to the Kali Gandaki and up a side valley to Yara. Start your walk from Yara, descending to the Puyang Khola on a narrow track. Navigate east through amazing sculpted canyons, witnessing ruins of ancient caves. Arrive at the magnificent Luri Gompa and its intricate cave system about two hours later, some of which are accessible. Explore the upper prayer chamber, the famed Kabum Stupa, and a modest gompa in the lower area, all open to visitors. The Luri caves feature Buddhist frescoes and massive, delicately painted chortens believed to have been built during the 13th or 14th centuries, related to the interconnected Tashi Kumbum caves. The tangka paintings by the Newar people resemble this technique, believed to be commissioned by Tibetans and executed by Nepali craftspeople. On the way back to Yara, walk the steep trail via the interesting town of Ghara, surrounded by terraced farms.

Walking time: Approx 3-4 hours.

Today, we'll begin our journey back to Jomsom by heading south toward Ghami. Despite retracing our steps, the Himalayan views ahead will remain spectacular, so stay attentive to the road and enjoy the scenery. Be ready for the afternoon winds as you return to the Kali Gandaki river. The deep Kali Gandaki gorge functions like a wind tunnel, carrying warmer air from the lowlands to the mountains. Upon reaching Jomsom in the late afternoon, unwind with a delightful celebratory dinner, savoring our last night in the mountains.

As we say goodbye to the lush middle hills, get ready for an exhilarating 30-minute journey to Pokhara by waking up early. Once we arrive, the day is ours to explore, offering a variety of activities such as water sports (kayaking and paddleboarding), yoga studios, and trendy stores. If we're feeling adventurous, consider trying paragliding or explore different options for a relaxing moment during happy hour at a lakeside cafe with a view of Phewa Lake.

Yield in the morning in Pokhara before our journey to Kathmandu. Upon arrival in the capital, our representative will greet us at the airport and transport us to our accommodation. Utilize the rest of the day for relaxation or embark on a final adventure in the lively city of Kathmandu. In the evening, we'll gather for a special farewell dinner to celebrate the successful completion of our journey. We'll spend the night in Kathmandu.

It's time to say goodbye to Nepal. Make the most of your last morning in Kathmandu with a leisurely breakfast in a café, a city stroll, and/or some souvenir shopping. A representative will pick us up from the hotel, ensuring we reach the airport on time for our journey back home. Safe travels!