The Royal Trek
Trip Overview
Overview
The Royal Trek is a captivating and leisurely trekking experience in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Spanning around 20 kilometers, this short and delightful journey also offers an excellent opportunity to witness the stunning beauty of the Himalayas, pristine landscapes, and experience the unique culture of the local communities. The trek commences from the picturesque lakeside city of Pokhara, renowned for its tranquility and breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Accompanied by experienced guides and porters, trekkers also embark on a gentle hike through terraced fields, lush forests, and traditional villages. The Royal Trek derives its name from Prince Charles and his 90-member entourage, who explored this trail in the early 1980s. Since then, it has become a popular trekking destination, but it maintains its authentic charm and unspoiled nature. The route passes through the idyllic villages of Syaklung, Chisapani, and Kalikasthan, where trekkers can interact with the warm and hospitable Gurung and Magar communities. These encounters provide a unique glimpse into the local lifestyle, customs, and traditions. One of the major highlights of this trek is the awe-inspiring panoramic views of majestic peaks such as Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna, and Langtang. The trail's relatively low altitude ensures that trekkers do not face issues related to altitude sickness, making it an ideal choice for all fitness levels, including families with children. Throughout the journey, trekkers are treated to breathtaking sunrises and sunsets over the Himalayan horizon, creating magical moments etched in their memories forever. The trail's easy accessibility and the absence of challenging terrains make it suitable for those seeking a peaceful and rejuvenating adventure in the lap of nature.Conclusion and Summary
In conclusion, the Royal Trek is a short yet fulfilling journey that combines stunning mountain vistas, cultural immersion, and a sense of serenity amidst the Himalayan wonderland. Whether you are an experienced trekker or a first-timer, this trek offers an unforgettable experience that leaves a lasting imprint of Nepal's natural and cultural beauty.Trip Highlight
- Those who want to experience in a short period of time with amazing mountains scenery.
- Immerse yourself in the diverse cultures and customs of the ethnic groups residing in the region, such as the Gurung and Magar people.
- Sightseeing of UNESCO World Heritage sites of Kathmandu Valley
- Scenic Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara.
- The Royal Trek is relatively short and manageable, making it accessible to individuals of all ages and fitness levels.
- Trek alongside with Pokhara Three Lakes i.e Phewa Lake, Rupa Lake and Begnas Lake.
- Traverse through charming traditional villages like Syaklung and Chisapani, offering insights into the local culture and way of life.
- Adventurous Activity Like Paragliding, Boating and Ultralight Flight in Pokhara (optional).
- Through different ethnic groups’ villages and farmland to the north of the Pokhara Valley.
- Low Chances of Altitude Sickness due to Low Range of Altitude in this trek.
- Rafting in Rivers Like Seti and Trishuli River (Optional).
- Name after Prince Charles of Britain and his 90 associates visited this route in the early eighties.
- Can do even in wintertime and with children as well as family.
- Opportunity to experience an unforgettable trekking holiday in the Himalaya range.
- Breathtaking views of including Machapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Annapurna II, and Lamjung Himal, along with other peaks in the Annapurna range.
- Keep an eye out for a variety of wildlife, including the Danfe or Lopophorus (the national bird of Nepal) and Himalayan Thar.
- Mostly the trail goes through the incredibly dense rhododendron forests.
- Drive from beautiful city Pokhara to Kalikasthan.
Itinerary
After a quick luggage check, we proceed to a private transportation that will take you to the city within 25 to 30 minutes. Upon reaching the hotel, we facilitate the check-in process efficiently. Shortly thereafter, we provide a brief orientation about the upcoming program for your journey, setting the stage for an exciting adventure.
The following morning, Kickstart your day with a delicious breakfast, energizing you for the exploration that lies ahead. Our carefully curated program ensures a smooth transition from arrival to the commencement of your journey, making your stay in Kathmandu a memorable and enjoyable experience.
In the morning. Trekking preparation and permit organize day. Please, check your insurance details and have a copy of your Travel medical insurance policy with you.
At Afternoon, Go for Sightseeing of Kathmandu Valley. Kathmandu is the cultural hub of Nepal– a city of temples and monasteries. Today you have a cultural sightseeing tour of the historic Kathmandu city in the company of an experienced guide. After breakfast, we escort you to Pashupatinath– the largest Hindu Temple in Nepal, in a private vehicle. The temple dedicated to Lord Shiva along the Bagmati River has beautiful carved statues and idols of Hindu deities in its premises, including a long row of Shiva-Lings, series of small temples which are truly fascinating. Moreover, an opportunity to witness the Hindu funeral ritual at Aaryaghat may be a unique cultural experience. Next, a large dome-shaped Buddhist stupa entices us. Boudhanath holds huge religious significance among the Buddhists of Nepal. It was a major shrine along the ancient Indo-China trade route. Traders and scholars sought blessings for safe journey through the high Himalayan passes to Tibet. Saffron-robed monks circumambulating Boudhanath, colorful prayer flags touching the skyline from the dome pinnacle to the base, and outlets selling Tibetan souvenirs is reminiscent of a small Tibetan town. Post lunch, the sightseeing tour continues to Kathmandu Durbar Square. The exemplary wooden and stone craftsmanship at the site makes it a prominent place of attraction for tourists. The stone-paved streets and pagoda-styled religious monuments dedicated to different Hindu deities are the cultural delights of ancient and medieval Nepal at Kathmandu Durbar Square. Today’s final destination for a sightseeing tour in Kathmandu takes you to Swayambhunath. A self-emerged stupa lies on a hilltop overlooking Kathmandu with its watchful eyes. You get to experience more about Tibetan Buddhism at Swayambhunath. After the full-day sightseeing tour, you are escorted to your hotel.
Included: Breakfast and accommodation at Kathmandu hotel
Embark on a scenic journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara, a mesmerizing route that promises an unforgettable experience. Our overnight stay at a comfortable hotel includes a hearty bed and breakfast, ensuring a rejuvenating start to your day.
Our drive offers not just transportation but an immersive exploration of the picturesque landscapes that Nepal has to offer. As you traverse from Kathmandu to Pokhara, be captivated by the diverse scenery, quaint villages, and the natural beauty that unfolds along the route.
Upon reaching Pokhara, your overnight accommodation awaits at a carefully selected hotel. Enjoy the comfort of a restful night’s sleep and wake up to a delightful breakfast that energizes you for the adventures that lie ahead. Our commitment to your satisfaction extends beyond mere accommodation, as we strive to provide an experience.
Choose our comprehensive package for a seamless journey, blending comfort, convenience, and a touch of adventure. Trust us to make your Kathmandu to Pokhara drive an integral part of your overall travel experience. Elevate your journey with us and let the road from Kathmandu to Pokhara become a memorable chapter in your travel story.
Included: Breakfast at Kathmandu Hotel, Accommodation at Pokhara Hotel
Today, our trek begins. Initially, we drive to Bijayapur from Pokhara, which takes about an hour. From Bijaypur we begin our trek. We cross past the beautiful paddy fields and then ascend to Chautara via Rakhigaon. Beyond Chautara the ascent continues to a village mostly inhabited by Brahmins (one of the major castes of Nepal). The trail beyond the village finally connects us to Kalikasthan. The view of Pokhara from the village is fascinating and the mountain views to the north are equally enchanting. Overnight at Kalikasthan.
Included: Mountain lodge accommodation with a full board of meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
With excellent views of Annapurna and Lamjung Himal, The trek today traverses numerous villages. Throughout the day’s trek, we encounter diverse cultures, customs, and dialects, not to mention the flora and fauna aspects of the region. The villages we come across along the beautiful trail of Royal Trek include Thulokot, Mati Thana, and Naudanda. The final part of the day’s trek winds through the mountain route until we reach Shayklung, a popular Gurung village in the region. Overnight at Shyaklung.
Included: Mountain lodge accommodation with a full board of meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
In the morning we explore around the village to observe the traditional lifestyle of rural Nepal. Then we begin the day’s trek. We walk through the forest of Rhododendron and Sal trees. En route, we enjoy the views of soaring Himalayan peaks that include mountains like Annapurna II, Lamjung Himal, Manaslu, and Himalchuli. The unharmed trail through several houses at the end of the day slides up to Chisapani – the best viewpoint on the Royal Trek that caters to the paramount of widespread Himalayan Range. From Chisapani, we can see the magnificent views of Dhaulagiri to the west of Annapurna. Overnight at Chisapani.
Included: Mountain lodge accommodation with a full board of meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
Today we begin the trek with a downhill climb to a ridge. Then we chase the stony staircases downhill that leads us to a small valley. We then begin to trek along the trail beside expansive paddy fields that stretch to Rupa Lake. The final section of the trek leads us to Sundari Danda from where we slide down to Begnas Lake. We can enjoy boating in Begnas Lake before we drive back to Pokhara. On arriving at Pokhara, we are transferred to our hotel. In the evening we may explore the beauty of Lakeside by the Phewa Lake. Overnight in Pokhara.
Included: Accommodation at Pokhara Hotel and meals (breakfast and lunch
We should be ready by 6:00 in morning in hotel lobby in order to have breakfast or seek advice from your trekking guide. We will drive back to Kathmandu through on the main road passing terraces, streams, rivers, local settlements, and high hills. It takes about 7 hours (conditional) to reach your hotel in Kathmandu. If you are interested to fly from Pokhara to Katmandu (bear in mind the extra cost of the plane tickets) please request Friendship World Trek to book your flight ticket in advance. It takes about 30 minutes flying time with spectacular views of the Himalayas, high hills, terraces, local settlements, and forests. This can indeed make it worth flying.
Included: Breakfast at Pokhara Hotel, Accommodation at Kathmandu Hotel
In this pleasant day you may have full day at leisure either relax at hotel or explore the around Thamel. Today is day of ending your journey, so we would like offer you farewell dinner in Nepali typical Restaurant and hand over you Trip Certificate, Trekking Permit and TIMS Card for memory of Nepal trip. Today is free or last minute shopping for souvenirs or gift to your family, friends or relatives for you until departure flight/drive. Your Annapurna Royal trekking ends here today. Bid farewell to Kathmandu as you depart from your hotel for a smooth journey and drop you at Tribhuvan International Airport three hours earlier to schedule flight. We are thankful to you as you gave us opportunity to serve. Cherish the memories of your time in Nepal as you embark on the next chapter of your journey. Safe travels!
Included: Breakfast at Kathmandu Hotel
Departures & Availability
The set departure dates listed are specially quoted and specified for group joining option. Let us know if the set departure dates are not suitable for you- another dates which are suitable for you can certainly be added by us.
Check Available Dates
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All trip prices are per person based on double occupancy, are subject to change without notice and do not include airfare. All prices and fares are quoted in U.S. dollars.
Price include
- Free Airport picks up and drops all transportation (airport to Hotel to the airport).
- Star level 3+2 nights Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara twin bed sharing basic.
- ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project), TIMS (Trekkers Information System) Cards.
- Pokhara to trekking starting point (Bijayapur) & trekking ending point to (Begnas Tal )Pokhara by private/Public Bus/Taxi/car/van/Bus.
- Transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara to Kathmandu by comfort tourist bus.
- Trekking pieces of equipment (worm down jackets, sleeping bag & Duffle Bag) during the trekking if needed.
- Friendship World Trek T-shirt /Cap and Appreciation Card of Trip (after trip end).
- 3 times meals (breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during the trek.
- Soft & comfortable private accommodation entire Mountain twin bed sharing with share toilet.
- Government license holder English Speaking experienced Local Guide with their food, accommodation, salary, insurance, and types of equipment.
- A porter (between every 2-person basic) carries a max.20-25 kg. Plus their food, accommodation, wage, insurance, and all transportation.
- One Person (assistance guide) if the group size is more than 10 people. Plus their food, accommodation, salary, insurance, and equipment.
- Guide & porters insurance for their happy journey.
- A Trekking Map of Annapurna Trip for a Group.
- Supplementary snacks (cookies, fresh fruits) on the trek.
- First Aid medical kit during the trip, including Oximeter to measure Oxyzen and pulse in high altitude.
- Welcome and farewell program.
- Achievement Certificate and Token of Appreciation after Completing the Trek
- Attached bathrooms and hot showers wherever available
- Souvenir as Company’s T-shirt and Cap
- Tourist service charge, vat, Governments Tax, and official expanse if necessary.
Price Excludes
- All kinds of cold and hot drinks including drinking water, Tea, coffee, Chocolate, Cookies, dessert, Phone calls, laundry, and hot showers during the trek.
- Clients’ travel Insurance and evacuation (compulsory).
- If in case, the flight cancels and a charter helicopter or plane.
- Tipping for Guide & porter, your meals at Kathmandu & Pokhara.
- Personal expenses like Shopping, souvenirs or gift, and personal mountaineering gear.
- Optional trips and sightseeing if extend.
- Extra meals, extra porterage service, Wi-Fi, charging of your electronic devices, etc.
- International airfare, airport departure tax, and Visa fee.
- Things which don’t mention above, in our services (Trip Cost Includes).
- Visa fee, you obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport Kathmandu.
Gears And Equipment
Trip Information
Airport Reception:
Upon your arrival at the airport our representatives person with a Friendship World Trek (LOGO) sign board, to show you on your arrival exit gate. Who taking care of you with reception then safely drive to the hotel, Briefing about program details before going to Mountains. At the airport we cannot enter the interior of the airport because a person who doesn’t have a plane ticket is not allowed to enter.
Accommodations:
We give our first priority to serve the customers with the most standard level. As for the accommodation, we have been providing star hotels in Kathmandu and even Mountain guest houses during the trek according to their need and requirement. We provide convenient Guest House with sound environment and hygienic foods for the guest to make healthy their trip. Everest Region is popular and has wonderful accommodation facility compared to the condition of elderly times.
Meals:
We get a paradise of delicious food in Kathmandu valley. We have a lot of restaurants with different cuisine in city but during the Lodge trek we get to eat Continental, Indian and Nepali menu choices like Pasta, Pizza, Mo: Mo, Soup, Dal Bhat, Hot drinks Tea & Coffee etc. Our Guides (Leader) will manage and advice the Food for beloved Guests to be satisfy
Trekking Team:
Being homeland of Himalayas, it’s obvious to have challenging routes, dangerous weather, health issues; any of these situations is enough to ruin your trip. Leading around the steeply hills and rocky routes is not a job of common climbers and trekkers. Friendship World Trek have been providing native leaders and staffs working in this field perfectly since many years to overcome tough challenges and make your trip a golden memory. Our Guides are trained and well certified by the Government of Nepal. Our staffs have received proper emergency guidance and evacuation education in the Himalayas. They are also entirely aware of correct knowledge of first aid to the victims. We have never and will never compromise on the safety to our clients; therefore, we provide insurance and medical services during the trek and compensation when they needs.
Field Staffs Rules:
To pass through challenging routes and to ensure your safety and comfort, we need adequate number of staffs. It includes guide, porter, driver, assistant guide and so on. We provide guide in every trip while one assistant guide to every 4-9 group of guests and two with every 10 crew. As for the porters, we send 1 porter for every 2 guest. The number of porter also varies to the load of the clients; a porter’s maximum load is 25 kg. Our staffs are professional and expert guides (leader) who can speak languages like English, French, Germany, Italian, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, Korean and other as required. We can also manage any other staffs as per your demands.
Trekking Equipment:
Equipment does matter to make your trip comfortable and better so you must be serious about check list before going to trek. We advice to take general equipment for the trek.
General
- Four-season (-20 degree) sleeping bag (We provide rental sleeping bags available for an additional USD 35)
- Puffy down jacket (We provide rental jackets for an additional USD 35)
- Daypack (25-30 liters recommended) with rain cover
Upper Body
- Sun hat or cap (We’ll provide you with a trekking cap.)
- warm woolen hat
- Scarf/Neck Buff (highly recommended to get saved from wind and cold)
- Headlamp or mobile torch light for nighttime
- Polarized sunglasses
Torso
- Technical fabric base layer thermals are light for warmer months, heavy for colder months
- Technical fabric t-shirts and sleeve sweaters or high-necks
- Waterproof rain jacket
- windproof jacket for the walk as it gets windy
- Fleece jacket or down jacket
Lower Body
- thermals inner
- Hiking pants at least 3
- Comfortable pants for teahouses
- Waterproof, windproof shell
- Hiking shorts
Hands
- Woolen gloves for the tea house
- Hard-shell windproof outer gloves for the walk
Feet
- Marino Wool or comfortable, warm socks
- Hiking socks
- Liner socks
- Trekking/hiking boots (waterproof recommended)
- Crampons (For passes)
- Casual shoes or sandals that are comfortable for the time in the tea house
- Gaiters (lightweight for rain and snow)
Undergarments and inner wears
- Technical fabric/quick drying (can be washed during the trek)
- Sports bras (women)
- sleeping clothes as per the comfortability
First Aid Kits and Medications
- Sunscreen SPF- 50+
- Lip balm or Vaseline
- ointment cream
- Cough Syrup and strepsils (recommended for Khumbu Cough)
- Creams and medicines (for any allergies or diseases)
(Note: Our guides carry medications, oxygen cans, and first aid kits during the trip. However, personal kits and medications are recommended.)
Safety & Security:
Security is our primary concern from your first day you will be under our service and protection. Our staff will pick you up at the airport and will assist you to your hotel. We have proper remedial services during the trek with professional staffs and services like first aid, and we will help to arrange oxygen bag and helicopter service for emergency rescue. We also focus on acclimatization days to get rid of altitude sickness. We will take care of you on arrival to till on in your final departure date airport drop services
Best Season to Trek in Nepal:
Autumn (September – November) and spring (March – May)
Autumn (September – November) and spring (March – May) is the best season for trekking and mountaineering in Nepal. Weather is mostly clear and temperature is moderate in these seasons which offer beautiful views without any obstruction. Spring grants you beautiful flowers, plants and rare animals. Walking is favorable during these seasons.
Summer (June – August) and winter (December – February).
Though summer has heavy monsoon rainfall, it is very much clearer to trek around Upper Mustang Trek , Upper Dolpo Trek and Nar Phu Valley Trek since they are rain shadow areas. Everest Trek , Langtang Trek , Annapurna Trek , Manaslu Circuit Trek , Kanchenjunga Trek as well as Nepal Tour Packages are always better to trek in winter season.
Experience & Fitness:
Trekking can be challenging and exhausting. So you might need some fitness training and experience for some tough trial. Nepal Trekking in Everest Base Camp does not require past experience or extreme fitness even though we have more challenging routes in different region compared to that of Everest. Trekking in Himalayas always takes us to challenging altitudes and rocky routes. You could ask for proper rest time and acclimatization to sustain your strength. Mountains can never be achieved in a day. We always provide the detail in our itinerary. However certain training like running, skipping and other workouts will definitely be beneficial in such challenging routes.
Acclimatization:
Altitude sickness is a major risk when trekking. You might experience it on any trails above 2,500 m however; good health, proper care and drinking plenty of water will definitely help you to prevent from altitude sickness. Every trekkers needs to be familiar with the heights and altitude so, for this we have life saving appropriate acclimatization days during the trek, We also provide certain medical support for your relief and emergency rescue through helicopter whenever the situation gets worse.
Eco Friendly:
Our only goal in the Himalayas is to leave the memories and foot prints Friendship World Trek is concerned on environment pollution issue and global warming. We are always serious and genuine about our garbage during the trek especially during camping. We collect the rubbish and dump it to the proper place to protect our environment and also appeal our clients to do the same. We partake in every program conducted in KEEP (Kathmandu Environmental Education Project) and other environmental conservation programs. We want to promote Safe environment act and stand against pollution & global warming.
Tailor-Made Itinerary:
Sometimes trekking in the Himalayan Region passes through unexpected complication like natural calamity, health challenges and many other problems that might result to the changes of the itinerary. So, we kindly request you to cooperate with your guide and the team in such situation
The Royal Trek Route Map
Gallery
FAQS
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Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry’s standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged. It was popularised in the 1960s with the release of Letraset sheets containing Lorem Ipsum passages, and more recently with desktop publishing software like Aldus PageMaker including versions of Lorem Ipsum.
Traveler Reviews
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