Royal Trek Nepal – A Scenic & Easy Cultural Hike in Annapurna Followed by Prince Charles

Your first full day in Nepal’s capital city begins with a delicious breakfast at your hotel, followed by a day of cultural exploration and spiritual immersion. Today, you’ll discover the rich heritage of the Kathmandu Valley, a place where ancient traditions and sacred monuments stand as timeless guardians of history, art, and devotion.

Our licensed cultural guide will accompany you on a curated tour to four of the valley’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites:

🛕 Pashupatinath Temple: One of the most sacred Hindu temples in South Asia, nestled on the banks of the Bagmati River. Here, you’ll witness the rituals of life and death unfolding simultaneously—cremation ceremonies, devotees offering prayers, and the deep spiritual pulse of Nepalese Shaivism.

🕉️ Boudhanath Stupa: A towering white dome crowned by the all-seeing eyes of the Buddha, this stupa is a heart center of Tibetan Buddhism. You’ll feel a deep sense of peace and mindfulness as you join the kora (ritual circumambulation) with monks, pilgrims, and locals, spinning prayer wheels and listening to the fluttering mantras carried by the wind.

🦚 Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple): Perched on a hilltop, this legendary Buddhist shrine offers panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley. Surrounded by ancient chaityas, painted stone carvings, and playful monkeys, this spiritual site is said to have miraculously risen from a lake in ancient times.

🏯 Kathmandu Durbar Square: The historical royal palace complex of the Malla Kings, filled with intricately carved wooden temples, the Kumari Ghar (Living Goddess’s residence), and timeless architecture that whispers stories of Nepal’s royal past. This square reflects the soul of Newari culture, history, and artistry.

Throughout the day, you’ll walk among centuries-old monuments, hear the echoes of temple bells, and watch as devotees engage in rituals of devotion. These encounters will set the tone for the spiritual nature of your trek to come.

In the evening, return to your hotel with a heart full of impressions. You may wish to dine at one of Kathmandu’s fine restaurants offering traditional Nepali cuisine or international flavors. Reflect on the deep cultural roots of the land you are about to walk through.

🏨 Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu (Bed & Breakfast)
🗺️ Activities: Guided cultural and spiritual tour with private vehicle
📸 Highlights: Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath, Durbar Square
🎧 Guide: Government-licensed cultural guide with historical insights
🍽️ Meals: Breakfast included

After enjoying a peaceful morning in Pokhara with views of Phewa Lake and the Annapurna range shimmering in the early light, you begin your trekking journey with a short drive to Bijayapur Khola (approx. 820 m), the traditional starting point of the Royal Trek. This tranquil riverside village lies just a short distance from Pokhara, and it marks the beginning of your walk through the foothills of the Annapurna region, famously walked by Prince Charles in the 1980s—hence the name "Royal Trek."

The trek begins by crossing the lush green paddy fields and fertile farmland, where you may see farmers plowing their fields with oxen and children greeting you with cheerful smiles. The trail gently ascends through mixed forests and terraced ridges, offering occasional glimpses of distant snow-capped peaks, including Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal, peeking through the trees.

As you gradually climb, you’ll pass small settlements and traditional Gurung villages, where time seems to have paused. The soothing sound of birdsong and the occasional temple bell in the distance creates a serene rhythm to your walk. The air becomes cooler and fresher as you gain altitude and leave the lowlands behind.

After 3 to 4 hours of steady walking, you reach the peaceful ridge-top village of Kalikasthan (1,370 m), surrounded by blooming rhododendrons in spring and vibrant green forests during the monsoon. The name Kalikasthan means “the place of Goddess Kali,” and nearby you’ll find a small hilltop shrine dedicated to the fierce yet protective deity, revered by the local communities.

Upon arrival, settle into your teahouse or local lodge, from where you can enjoy panoramic sunset views over the Pokhara Valley and across to the majestic Annapurna range. As night falls, the stars shimmer above the tranquil hills, and you enjoy a warm, home-cooked dinner, marking the perfect start to your royal journey into Nepal’s rural heart.

📍 Starting Point: Bijayapur Khola (~820 m)
📍 Ending Point: Kalikasthan (1,370 m)
🥾 Trekking Distance: 8 km
🕓 Walking Duration: 3–4 hours
🍽️ Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
🏠 Accommodation: Local teahouse or lodge
🧭 Highlights: Easy gradual ascent, Gurung villages, terraced landscapes, shrine of Kali, ridge-top views of Annapurna and Lamjung Himal

After a peaceful night in Kalikasthan, your day begins with a nourishing breakfast amidst tranquil surroundings. Today’s walk takes you deeper into the rural beauty of the Annapurna region, offering a gentle blend of culture and nature.

The trail meanders through lush terraced fields, where local farmers tend their crops using traditional methods passed down through generations. As you ascend gradually, you’ll walk through vibrant rhododendron forests and serene ridgelines, with frequent panoramic views of the Annapurna and Lamjung Himal ranges peeking through the greenery. On clear days, the snowcapped peaks seem to float above the hills, creating postcard-perfect scenery.

You’ll also pass through several quaint Gurung and mixed-ethnic villages, where the friendly locals greet you with warm smiles. These quiet settlements offer a rare chance to observe authentic village life, unspoiled by commercial tourism.

After trekking for about 5 to 6 hours, you’ll reach Lipeni, a peaceful hamlet perched on a scenic ridge. The camp or tea house accommodation tonight provides a cozy setting to relax, recharge, and reflect on the experiences of the day.

🌿 Trail Condition: Forest paths, village trails, and gradual ridges
🏡 Overnight: Tea house or tented camp in Lipeni
🍽️ Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
📷 Highlight: Sunset views over the Himalayas and remote hillside lifestyle

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After enjoying your warm morning tea and a hearty breakfast, you set off from Lipeni, continuing along the quiet ridgeline trail that gradually undulates through scenic hill landscapes. The path today is filled with birdsong, rustling forests, and soft breezes, offering a meditative and gentle trekking experience.

As you walk, you’ll pass through a patchwork of terraced rice fields and traditional villages, where life continues peacefully, untouched by modern development. Children wave from distant courtyards, and farmers go about their daily chores, giving you a closer look into the rural lifestyles of central Nepal.

The views today are especially enchanting. On a clear day, the snowcapped giants of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) ranges accompany you in the distance. The trail occasionally opens up to wide Himalayan vistas framed by hills and forests, making this section ideal for photographers and nature lovers alike.

After about 5 hours of relaxed trekking, you arrive at Chisapani, perched on a broad hilltop. The name Chisapani means “cold water,” and the fresh mountain air here lives up to the name. This peaceful village is surrounded by thick pine forests and open hills, providing a perfect resting spot for the evening.

You’ll spend the night in a local tea house or tented camp, where you can watch the sunset over the hills, sip on hot tea, and enjoy a delicious Nepali dinner served with care and hospitality.

🏔️ Trail Condition: Mixed forest trails, gentle climbs, and open hillside paths
📷 Highlight: Himalayan vistas and deep cultural immersion in traditional settlements
🏡 Overnight: Tea house or tented camp in Chisapani
🍽️ Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

Today you begin your descent from the cool hilltop village of Chisapani, trekking through lush forests and terraced fields as you wind down towards the tranquil shores of Begnas Lake. The trail is gentler and filled with the sounds of birds and rustling leaves, offering a peaceful end to your trekking adventure.

As you descend approximately 900 meters over 10 kilometers, you’ll pass through small villages where locals still live a traditional lifestyle, with children playing in the fields and farmers tending crops. The rich biodiversity of the region is evident in the variety of flora and fauna around you, making the walk both refreshing and invigorating.

Upon reaching Begnas Lake (650 m), one of the beautiful and less crowded lakes near Pokhara, you’ll enjoy a moment to relax by the calm waters, surrounded by forested hills and peaceful rural life. This serene setting provides a perfect contrast to the mountainous terrain you’ve traversed.

From here, you’ll board a private vehicle for a short 1-hour drive back to Pokhara (823 m). In Pokhara, you’ll have time to rest at your comfortable hotel and perhaps stroll along the lakeside promenade, enjoying views of Fishtail Mountain (Machhapuchhre) reflecting in Phewa Lake.

This evening, savor a well-deserved meal at a local restaurant or your hotel, reflecting on the beauty and culture experienced during your Royal Trek.

🥾 Trekking Distance: 10 km
⏱️ Trekking Time: Approx. 3 hours
📍 Elevation: Descending from 1,550 m to 650 m
🚗 Drive: Begnas Lake to Pokhara – approx. 1 hour
🏨 Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara
🍽️ Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
🌄 Highlights: Scenic descent, Begnas Lake tranquility, lakeside relaxation in Pokhara

After a restful night in Pokhara and a leisurely breakfast, you’ll embark on the scenic drive back to Kathmandu, traveling approximately 200 km along the picturesque Prithvi Highway. The journey takes about 6 to 7 hours, passing through beautiful riverside landscapes, terraced fields, and quaint towns.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, check into your hotel and relax before the evening’s special event. Join us for a memorable farewell dinner featuring authentic Nepali cuisine, accompanied by a vibrant cultural program showcasing traditional music, dance, and folklore from various ethnic groups.

This celebration is our way of thanking you for choosing Mountain King Treks and Expedition Pvt. Ltd. and for sharing this incredible journey with us. Enjoy the warm atmosphere and the chance to connect with fellow trekkers and staff one last time.

🍽️ Meals: Breakfast and farewell dinner included
🚗 Drive: Pokhara to Kathmandu, approx. 6–7 hours
🏨 Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
🎶 Cultural Program: Traditional Nepali music and dance
🎁 Farewell: Warm wishes and heartfelt thanks from our team

After enjoying a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, take some time to reflect on the unforgettable journey you’ve completed—the quiet trails of the Royal Trek, the warm smiles of the villagers, the serene beauty of Begnas Lake, and the stunning Himalayan vistas that accompanied you along the way.

Depending on your flight time, you may wish to explore a bit more of Kathmandu, visit a nearby temple, or simply relax at a café with a final cup of Nepali tea. Our team will be on hand to ensure a smooth and timely transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport, helping with luggage and bidding you a warm farewell.

Though your adventure in Nepal comes to a close, the memories of your trek, the friends you’ve made, and the beauty you’ve witnessed will remain with you for a lifetime. We hope your heart leaves fuller and your spirit more inspired.

From all of us at Mountain King Treks and Expedition Pvt. Ltd., thank you for choosing to travel with us. We wish you a safe journey home and hope to welcome you back to Nepal for another adventure in the future—perhaps to the higher Himalayas next time!

🍽️ Meals: Breakfast included
🚗 Airport Transfer: Private vehicle with guide/staff assistance
🙏 Farewell Note: “May your journey ahead be as beautiful and enriching as the mountains you leave behind.”