Annapurna Family Hike and Nagarkot Tour
- 9 days
- moderate
- Up to 12
- Spring (Mar–May) & Autumn (Sep–Nov)
We guide families through the cultural sites of Kathmandu Valley, the hill station of Nagarkot, and the terraced ridges above Pokhara.
At a glance
Trip overview
Our nine-day itinerary combines cultural exploration across the Kathmandu Valley with a gentle, family-oriented trekking route in the Annapurna foothills. We designed this journey specifically for travelers with children or older members who want to experience Himalayan scenery without tackling high-altitude passes or remote wilderness camps. We balance days of city sightseeing—including UNESCO World Heritage sites in Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur—with rural walks past terraced fields, rhododendron forests, and traditional villages inhabited by Brahmin and Chhetri communities.
We begin our travels by exploring the shrines and stupas of the capital before heading to the hilltop rim of Nagarkot for expansive mountain panoramas. Afterward, our team drives west to Pokhara, where we set out on foot toward Australian Camp and Sarangkot. These trails involve manageable daily walking hours and low maximum elevations, reaching up to 1991m at Sarangkot. We stay in local teahouses and family-run lodges along the ridge, allowing us to interact directly with villagers and observe rural Nepalese farming life.
While this is our most accessible trek in the Annapurna region, participants should still expect uneven stone staircases, uphill climbs lasting one to two hours, and basic lodge facilities. Our experienced guides manage the pace closely to suit every member of the family, ensuring ample rest stops and hydration breaks. This trip serves as an ideal introduction to Himalayan trekking and Nepalese culture for all ages.
Why this trek
Trip highlights
Nagarkot and Sarangkot Sunrises
We wake early to watch dawn break over the Langtang and Annapurna ranges from two of the Kathmandu and Pokhara valleys' finest viewpoints.
Machhapuchhre Views
We enjoy striking perspectives of the sacred Fish Tail peak, Annapurna South, and Dhaulagiri from Australian Camp and Sarangkot.
Cultural Heritage Sites
Our team leads guided visits through Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, and Patan Durbar Square.
Ridge and Terrace Hiking
We walk along gentle hillside trails through Dhampus, Pothana, and Naudanda, passing through cultivated terraces and mixed forests.
Pokhara Lakeside
We explore the lakeside city of Pokhara, taking boat rides on Phewa Lake and visiting Devi's Fall and the International Mountain Museum.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu
Meals: B
Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu
Meals: B
A representative from our team greets you at Tribhuvan International Airport holding a company sign. We provide private transport to your hotel in Kathmandu for check-in and trip preparation.
Day 2
Kathmandu Sightseeing and Drive to Nagarkot
Meals: B / L / D
Day 2
Kathmandu Sightseeing and Drive to Nagarkot
Meals: B / L / D
Our morning tour starts at the Hindu temple complex of Pashupatinath on the Bagmati River, followed by a visit to the massive Buddhist stupa at Boudhanath. In the afternoon, we drive east to the ancient brick-paved city of Bhaktapur to view its palace courtyards and temples before continuing up to Nagarkot for the evening.
Day 3
Nagarkot Sunrise to Kathmandu via Patan
Meals: B / L / D
Day 3
Nagarkot Sunrise to Kathmandu via Patan
Meals: B / L / D
We step out early to watch the sunrise over the Himalayan horizon. Following breakfast at our hotel, we drive back toward the Kathmandu Valley and stop in Patan to explore Durbar Square, the Krishna Temple, and Golden Temple. We finish the afternoon touring Kathmandu Durbar Square and Swayambhunath.
Day 4
Kathmandu to Pokhara
Meals: B / L / D
Day 4
Kathmandu to Pokhara
Meals: B / L / D
After breakfast, our private vehicle heads west toward Pokhara, following the Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers through terraced valleys and rocky gorges. Upon arrival in Pokhara, we check into our hotel and take an evening boat ride on Phewa Lake while reflecting the Annapurna range.
Day 5
Pokhara to Australian Camp via Phedi and Dhampus
Meals: B / L / D
Day 5
Pokhara to Australian Camp via Phedi and Dhampus
Meals: B / L / D
We take a short morning drive to Phedi to begin our trek. The trail climbs stone steps through cultivated fields and Brahmin and Chhetri settlements to Dhampus, where we pause for lunch. Afterward, we walk upward through a rhododendron forest to reach Australian Camp at 1990m.
Day 6
Australian Camp to Sarangkot
Meals: B / L / D
Day 6
Australian Camp to Sarangkot
Meals: B / L / D
Our morning path descends gently through forest and ridge trails toward Naudanda, then contours along easy hillside paths past mixed-ethnic farming villages. We arrive at Sarangkot by afternoon to watch the valley lights appear below the Annapurna range.
Day 7
Sarangkot Sunrise, Drive to Pokhara and Sightseeing
Meals: B / L / D
Day 7
Sarangkot Sunrise, Drive to Pokhara and Sightseeing
Meals: B / L / D
We take a short ten-minute walk from our lodge to the Sarangkot view tower for sunrise over the high peaks. Following breakfast, we drive back down to Pokhara for a full day of sightseeing, including visits to Devi's Fall, Gupteshwor Cave, and the International Mountain Museum.
Day 8
Pokhara to Kathmandu
Meals: B / L / D
Day 8
Pokhara to Kathmandu
Meals: B / L / D
We board our private vehicle for the return drive along the highway back to Kathmandu. The afternoon is free for final rest or independent exploration in the city.
Day 9
Departure from Kathmandu
Meals: B
Day 9
Departure from Kathmandu
Meals: B
Our driver picks you up from your hotel approximately three hours before your international flight time and escorts you to Tribhuvan International Airport for departure.
Inclusions
What’s included
Included
- Airport pickup and drop-off by private vehicle
- 3 nights 3-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
- 1 night 3-star hotel accommodation in Nagarkot with breakfast
- 2 nights 3-star hotel accommodation in Pokhara with breakfast
- Best available twin-share lodge accommodation during the trek
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek
- Experienced, licensed English-speaking guide and porter support
- Guided Kathmandu sightseeing tours with entry fees and private transport
- All ground transportation by private vehicle
- All government taxes and office service charges
Not included
- International airfare
- Nepal entry visa fee
- Meals not specified in the itinerary
- Travel insurance covering emergency evacuation
- Tips for guides, porters, and drivers
Before you go
Good to know
Altitude & Acclimatisation
The highest elevation we reach on this itinerary is 1991m at Sarangkot. At this modest altitude, the risk of acute mountain sickness is virtually non-existent, making it an ideal choice for families and travelers sensitive to altitude changes.
Fitness Expectations
This is classified as an easy trek suitable for children, parents, and seniors. Daily walking ranges from four to six hours over well-maintained trails with stone staircases and gradual ascents.
Accommodation & Facilities
In Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Nagarkot, we accommodate you in 3-star hotels with attached bathrooms and modern amenities. On the trek between Australian Camp and Sarangkot, we use the best available twin-share teahouses and lodges.
Food & Water
Breakfast is provided at city hotels. During the trek, our package includes all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) served at the lodges, offering a mix of local Nepali dal bhat, momos, and simple continental dishes.
Route
Route overview
Altitude
Altitude profile
Pack list
What to pack
Sturdy hiking bootsEssential
Footwear
Ankle support is recommended for uneven stone stairs.
Wool hiking socksEssential
Clothing
Merino wool helps prevent blisters.
Waterproof shell jacketEssential
Clothing
Essential for unexpected mountain showers.
Fleece jacket or wool sweaterEssential
Clothing
For cool mornings and evenings at Nagarkot and Sarangkot.
Daypack (25–30L)Essential
Camping
To carry your water, layers, and camera during daily hikes.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Camping
Hydration is important even at lower elevations.
UV protection sunglassesEssential
Safety
Useful during bright daylight hours on ridgelines.
Sun hat and sunscreenEssential
Safety
Strong mountain sun protection.
Passport and visa documentsEssential
Documents
Keep copies separate from originals.
Personal first aid kit
Safety
Include blister plasters and personal medications.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
Is this trek suitable for young children and elderly family members?
Yes. We designed this itinerary specifically for families, keeping daily walking hours short, ascents gradual, and maximum elevations low at under 2000m.
What is the maximum altitude reached on this trip?
The highest point on the hike is Sarangkot at 1991m, where there is negligible risk of altitude sickness.
What kind of accommodation is provided during the hike?
We use clean, family-run teahouses and lodges on a twin-sharing basis along the ridge trails between Australian Camp and Sarangkot.
Are airport transfers included in the package?
Yes, our staff will meet you at Tribhuvan International Airport upon arrival and provide all necessary private transfers throughout the trip.
What seasons are best for this family hike?
We recommend spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) for stable weather, clear skies, and optimal mountain visibility.
Do I need travel insurance for this trip?
Yes, we require all participants to carry comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical care and emergency evacuation.
Still have a question? Message us and our trip planner will reply within a working day.
Book your trip
Pick any start date on the calendar. We block the trip out over 9 days and confirm the plan with you before payment.
Start dateTrip runs
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