Discover Kathmandu & Conquer the Dudh Kunda Trek - 10 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu, Explore Nepal's Capital 

Welcome to Kathmandu, Nepal's bustling capital. Meet your driver outside the airport and transfer to your hotel to check in and freshen up. The rest of the day is free for you to spend as you wish, so if you want to do a bit of sightseeing, a great place to start is Buddha Stupa. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the largest and most sacred Buddhist stupas (shrines) in the world. Look up at the massive white dome, crowned with the all-seeing eyes of Buddha, as you walk around the stupa in a clockwise direction. While you walk, spin the prayer wheels and observe the monks chanting. 

Then, continue to Pashupatinath Temple, situated on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River. The main temple is restricted to Hindus only, but if you're not Hindu, you can explore the extensive grounds and watch the religious ceremonies, such as the traditional cremations that take place along the river. In the evening, head to Thamel, a lively neighborhood full of shops, restaurants, and street food stalls selling everything from local Nepali dishes like momos (dumplings typically filled with meat or vegetables) and dal bhat (lentil curry) to international cuisines. 

Day 2: Full-Day Tour of the Kathmandu Valley's Sacred Sites

Join your guide on a tour of the Kathmandu Valley today, starting at Swayambhunath, better known as the Monkey Temple for its resident free-roaming macaques. Climb a steep flight of steps up the hill to the temple and look up at the iconic white stupa surrounded by prayer wheels, smaller shrines, and fluttering prayer flags. Enjoy panoramic views of the valley from the top before continuing to the UNESCO-listed Patan Darbar Square in Lalitpur. The square is surrounded by intricate temples and the Royal Palace, which now houses the Patan Museum. 

Your last stop is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bhaktapur, one of three royal cities within the valley. Stroll through the ancient squares, particularly Bhaktapur Durbar Square, where you'll be captivated by the intricate wood carvings, towering pagoda-style temples, and the iconic 55-Window Palace. As you wander the winding streets, you'll also pass plenty of bustling markets and artisans engaging in traditional crafts, such as pottery-making, wood carving, and weaving. After the full-day tour, return to your hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 3: Full-Day Transfer to Phaplu

Get ready for an early wake-up call as you set off on a 10-hour transfer to Phaplu this morning. This charming town, situated at an altitude of around 8,200 feet (2,500 m), serves as a gateway to the Everest region and is known for its picturesque mountain views and vibrant Sherpa culture.

As you leave the capital, watch the scenery shift from urban chaos to serene countryside, with charming villages, rolling hills, and terraced fields dotting the landscape. Break up the long drive with stops in quaint towns like Khurkot and Ghurmi to stretch your legs and eat. When you approach Phaplu, the roads may be less developed, so prepare for a bumpy ride. Upon arrival, check in at a local lodge and unwind after the long drive.

Day 4: Trek to Thaksindo (10,075 ft/ 3,071 m)

Lace up your hiking boots and get ready to start your five-day Dudh Kunda trek into the Himalaya. Set off with your crew and helpful porters north through the foothills, passing forests, fields, and Sherpa villages. As you ascend, you'll be greeted by unparalleled views of the towering mountains. Join the Everest trail coming from Jiri, then cross over Thaksindo La, a picturesque pass offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. After 4-6 hours, you'll end today's hike in the village of Thaksindo, situated at an elevation of 10,075 feet (3,071 m).

Day 5: Trek to Beni (13,031 ft/ 3,972 m)

After a nourishing breakfast, start today's hike to Beni, located at the confluence of the Kali Gandaki and Myagdi rivers. This scenic route takes you through the small town of Sahasrabeni and offers views of towering peaks like Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Khatang, and Machapuchare. You'll also pass through dense pine and rhododendron forests and alongside bubbling streams, giving you a glimpse of local flora. When you start to see yak farms and a monastery, you'll know you're getting close to Beni, where you can settle into your lodge after 6-8 hours of hiking. 

Day 6: Trek to Dudh Kunda (14,960 ft/ 4,560 m)

Today's six-hour hike is sure to be memorable, as it culminates at Dudh Kunda, a glacial lake renowned for its milky blue waters and religious significance. Meander through terraced fields, tiny villages, and dense forests, getting another look at the surrounding mountains, including Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. As you approach the lake, you'll be greeted by alpine meadows and tranquil waters. When you arrive, your guide will teach you about the lake's spiritual importance and rituals that are performed here before taking you to a nearby lodge to relax.

Day 7: Trek to Ringmo (8,858 ft/ 2,700 m)

Say goodbye to the sacred glacial lake this morning as you start the 5-6-hour trek to Ringmo, a picturesque village known for its friendly locals and traditional lifestyle. Along the route, you'll get another perspective of the surrounding peaks, like Khatang and Kumbhakarna. Keep an eye out for flora and fauna, such as alpine flowers, colorful birds, and Himalayan monkeys. When you arrive, learn about the local Sherpa community and sample some apple wine and yak cheese before settling into your lodge. 

Day 8: Trek to Phaplu

The final leg of your journey takes you back to your starting point, Phaplu. Begin with a trek through the forest to get to Thaksindo. From there, the path winds through pine and rhododendron forests and terraced fields. When the landscape opens up, you can get one last look at the sacred peaks of the Himalaya. After five hours, you'll arrive in Phaplu, where you can relax at your lodge and celebrate your accomplishment. 

Day 9: Full-Day Transfer to Kathmandu

Say goodbye to Phaplu and the Himalaya this morning as you meet your driver for the 10-hour transfer back to Kathmandu. When you arrive in the evening, explore more of the capital on foot, bicycle, or rickshaw to discover any landmarks you may have missed at the beginning of your trip. Then, visit one of the city's bustling night markets, like New Road Gate Market, to indulge in delicious street food and shop for souvenirs among the array of textiles, handicrafts, and jewelry. 

Day 10: Depart Kathmandu

Now that you've completed the Dudh Kunda trek and explored Kathmandu, it's time to head home. If you have a later flight, enjoy a final stroll through the capital or visit more landmarks, like the National Museum of Nepal. The museum features several buildings, each showcasing exhibits that highlight the country's artistic heritage, weaponry, and ethnography. One of the highlights is a 16th-century statue of the goddess Taleju. When it's time, return to the hotel to grab your bags, meet your driver, and transfer to the airport for your flight home. Safe travels!