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Arrive
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Day 1 Arrive in Kathmandu
Upon arrival in Kathmandu airport you will be met by your private driver and transferred to Dwarika's, an exquisite heritage hotel that exudes character and charm. The rest of the day is at leisure for you to recover from the journey, perhaps with a nurturing treatment in the hotel spa.
Overnight: Dwarika`s Hotel
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Day 2 Travel to Pokhara - afternoon explorations
You will be driven to the airport this morning in time for your short flight to Pokhara. Gain an introduction to this spectacular region with a visit to the International Mountain Museum, which recounts the development of mountaineering in the Himalayas and some its most momentous feats. You will then take to the waters of Phewa Lake, the second largest in Nepal, where the snowcapped Himalayan peaks are reflected in its mirror-like waters. Visit Barahi Temple, located on an island in the middle of the lake, before being transferred to the serene Pavilions Himalayas for the evening.
Optional upgrade: Travel to Pokhara by private helicopter (price on application)
Overnight: Pavilions Himalayas, The Farm
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Day 3 Flight to Jomsom & Marpha tour
Today you will fly north to Jomsom, gateway to the kingdom of Mustang. After checking into your comfortable base for the coming days, you will set out to explore in earnest. Travelling to Marpha on a scenic walk, you will be guided through the most intriguing sights of this beautifully preserved stone village. Stop for a lunch of delicious Thakali cuisine prepared by a highly regarded chef, before continuing your explorations of Marpha, the 'apple capital of Nepal', with a visit to the apple brandy factory.
Optional upgrade: Fly to Jomsom by private helicopter (price on application)
Overnight: Shinta Mani Mustang - A Bensley Collection
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Day 4 Nilgiri Himal & Chhyama Lake
Gain a full immersion into Mustang's spectacular and untouched landscapes today as you set out on a guided trek to Chhyama Lake, a glacial lake found at the base Nilgiri Himal. Take in the magnificent views while your guides prepare a gourmet picnic lunch. The afternoon takes you to a remote village, seemingly untouched by time, before you return to Shinta Mani by road or on foot - the choice is yours.
Overnight: Shinta Mani Mustang - A Bensley Collection
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Day 5 Muktinath Temple & Kagbeni Village
Begin the day with a visit to the kingdom's most sacred pilgrimage sites, Muktinath. This Vishnu temple is of immense significance for Hindu pilgrims, but is also recognised by Buddhists as an important spiritual site. After touring the temple and making a butter lamp offering, you will move on to the Tibetan village of Kagbeni. Arriving by vehicle - or mountain bike if you prefer - explore the charming village and refuel with a delicious local lunch. After some free time to shop for crafts, return to the hotel by car or mountain bike.
Overnight: Shinta Mani Mustang - A Bensley Collection
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Day 6 Bon Village Discovery
Set out with your guide this morning to the Bon Village Valley. Originating from Tibet, the Bon culture is steeped in its own distinctive traditions such as shamanism and, despite attempts at expulsion and forced conversion, Bon communities can still be found holding strong in the Himalayas. You will enter the village on a scenic walk across a suspension bridge, and then explore with a local guide. Visit the temple, the cave monastery and then enjoy a traditional Bon lunch in a local teashop. Revived from lunch, take a scenic walk to the fortress ruins to enjoy sweeping views of the mountains and valley. Return to the hotel by car or mountain bike this afternoon. Later, you may wish to venture out on a scenic ride on a Mustang horse.
Overnight: Shinta Mani Mustang - A Bensley Collection
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Day 7 Zharkot Gompa & Jong Village
Your final day in Mustang takes you first to Zharkot, a remote Tibetan village displaying remnants of a defensive fort, and home to a striking red monastery. After time to explore, take the scenic descent on foot to the village of Jong. The stone houses here are typical of the Mustang region, and you will be able to enjoy a scenic, freshly prepared lunch at the top of the monastery, taking in the panoramic views. This afternoon you will once again have the opportunity to return to the hotel by car or mountain bike.
An alternative activity today might be to visit some of the Sky Caves typical of the region. Thought to date back over 2,000 years, and constructed initially as burial chambers, these caves display evidence of later use as dwellings and even meditation caves, with remains of Buddhist sculptures and paintings still found inside.
Overnight: Shinta Mani Mustang - A Bensley Collection
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Day 8 Return to Pokhara
Bid farewell to Mustang today as you take a morning flight to Pokhara. Transfer to the delightful Pavilions Himalaya and enjoy an afternoon at leisure, perhaps unwinding by the swimming pool or in the spa.
Overnight: Pavilions Himalayas, The Farm
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Day 9 Bhaktapur & Kathmandu
Fly to Kathmandu this morning where you will have the opportunity to visit ancient city of Bhaktapur. This pristine gem is known for its beautifully preserved houses, craftsmanship and its UNESCO recognised Durbar Square. Discover the many fascinating sights of the city before being transferred to Kathmandu for your final night in Nepal.
Overnight: Dwarika`s Hotel
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Day 10 Depart
You will be driven to the airport today in plenty of time for your flight home.
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Depart
