Your Himalayan adventure begins today. You'll fly from Germany or Austria to Kathmandu in economy class. If you'd like a relaxed journey to the departure airport, you can add a Rail&Fly ticket from Deutsche Bahn when you book your trip (106 euros, 2nd class). Use the hours above the clouds to get in the mood for the next two weeks: the temples and pagodas of the Kathmandu Valley, the one-horned rhinos in Chitwan National Park, the Annapurna massif, and the royal cities of Bhaktapur and Patan.

You'll land in Kathmandu. You'll receive a warm welcome at the airport and be transferred to your accommodation. Settle in and look forward to a delicious dinner – perhaps you'll even meet someone from your small group. If you arrive at the hotel after 9 pm, your program will begin the following morning with a hearty breakfast.

Today you leave the capital for your first excursion into the surrounding countryside. In the morning, you travel to the Hindu temple of Dakshinkali, dedicated to the goddess Kali. It is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus who perform their sacrificial ceremonies here – an intense first glimpse into the lived religiosity of Nepal. On your way back to Kathmandu, you'll stop in the medieval villages of Kirtipur and Chovar. Both are situated on hills above the Kathmandu Valley, have remained largely untouched by mass tourism, and with their narrow lanes, old Newar houses, and temples, you'll immerse yourself in a Nepal that has hardly changed for centuries.

More UNESCO World Heritage sites in the Kathmandu Valley await you today. In the morning, you'll travel to Boudhanath, also known as "Little Tibet." The site became famous for its 40-meter-high 5th-century stupa adorned with the painted eyes of Buddha – since then, it has been one of the most important destinations for Buddhist pilgrims. Soak up the spiritual atmosphere as you observe the many worshippers murmuring prayers and circumambulating the stupa in its shade. Afterwards, you'll visit a nearby monastery and learn more about monastic life in Nepal from a monk. A visit to an arts academy will then give you insight into the spiritual skill of painting thangkas and mandalas – an art form for which individual pieces can take months to complete. To conclude the day, a stark contrast awaits you in Pashupatinath. Here, on the banks of the Bagmati River, stands the country's most important Hindu temple, which is also one of the city's main cremation sites. It's an intense place that vividly illustrates the Nepalese approach to life and death.

Today you'll leave the hustle and bustle of the big city behind and travel to the subtropical Terai region and the Royal Chitwan National Park. This 932-square-kilometer park was Nepal's first and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its sal forests, numerous rivers and waterways, swamps, and grasslands, it is home to the protected one-horned rhinoceros, the Bengal tiger, and a multitude of monkey and bird species. Deer, leopards, and gharial crocodiles also inhabit the park. In the afternoon you will visit a nearby ethnic village and gain authentic insights into the life and culture of the Tharu, who have lived in this region for centuries.

Today, the jungle lies at your feet. During a two-hour safari, you'll explore the national park. If the animals aren't hiding, you'll see rhinos, various cat species, crocodiles, and monkeys, while countless bird species provide the perfect soundtrack. You might even be lucky enough to spot the Bengal tiger or the Indian rhinoceros, the park's iconic symbol. Depending on the weather, further activities will take place in the afternoon – for example, a short canoe trip or a short hike. In consultation with the local park rangers, you can plan your day entirely according to your preferences. To conclude this eventful day, a special highlight awaits: a sundowner at an idyllic spot on the Rapti River. Enjoy some snacks and the local Raksi Pyala as the sun slowly sets. A cash bar with a selection of drinks is available on-site for refreshments.

Your journey continues today along a scenic route via Pokhara to Sarangkot. This viewpoint is situated on a ridge high above Phewa Lake and is famous for its views of the eight-thousanders of the Annapurna range. Once you arrive at your hotel, you can enjoy a relaxing evening on the terrace with a magnificent panoramic view – on a clear day, this is one of the most beautiful sunsets of the entire trip.

Even if it's not easy for you: You should get up early today so you don't miss the sunrise. From your accommodation, it's spectacular against the backdrop of the snow-covered mountain giants, weather permitting. After breakfast, you'll begin today's hike (moderate, approx. 3 hours, +/- 400 meters elevation gain/loss). First, you'll travel by vehicle to Kande at 1,770 meters. From there, you'll hike for about 1.5 hours up to 2,220 meters to the Australian Base Camp. Afterwards, you'll continue to Pothana at around 1,900 meters and then through dense forest to the village of Dhampus at approximately 1,650 meters. In Dhampus, you'll visit Pokhari Village, a typical village of the Gurung farming community. Here, you'll be welcomed by the locals at the Peace Karma View Hotel and enjoy a traditional Nepalese lunch. You'll also visit a local school (closed on Saturdays and public holidays). The entire village visit lasts about an hour and a half and gives you a very direct impression of the lifestyle of these resilient people. Throughout the entire trek, you'll be treated to magnificent views of the Annapurna massif, including Annapurna I (8,091 m) and Manaslu (8,163 m), the eighth highest mountain in the world. Afterwards, it's all downhill to Phedi, where the bus will be waiting to take you to Pokhara. The rest of the day is for relaxation. Note: Those who do not wish to complete the entire hike can, after consulting with the tour guide, cover the route by jeep for an additional fee (bookable on site). The descent covers approximately 1,100 meters of elevation and is steep in places.

The beautiful city of Pokhara is particularly captivating due to its enchanting location on Phewa Lake, set against the backdrop of the snow-capped Annapurna massif. This morning you will dedicate entirely to the sights in and around Pokhara: you will stroll through the bustling bazaar in the old town and admire the 17th-century Bindebashini Temple with its colorful, striking decorations. The highlight of the day is a roughly one-hour boat trip across Phewa Lake. The afternoon is free for you to explore on your own.

After a leisurely breakfast, you'll travel through beautiful scenery to Bandipur, situated at an altitude of around 1,000 meters. This small town is known for its Newar architecture and has remained largely untouched by tourism. Enjoy this authentic experience and explore the town on your own – interesting encounters here happen almost effortlessly. Those who wish can hike with the tour guide up to the Thani Mai Temple, from where you have a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains. Enjoy the sunset from the viewpoint with a refreshing cold drink and some snacks.

Today you'll continue your journey towards Dhulikhel, a place renowned for its exceptionally beautiful views of the Himalayan panorama. Especially at sunrise and sunset, you'll experience a truly special atmosphere here. But the old town with its beautiful old houses is also well worth seeing. Admire the craftsmanship of the Newar people as you gaze at the intricately carved windows and doors, and let these impressions sink in.

In the morning, you'll hike to the famous Namobuddha Monastery (moderate, 2.5 to 3 hours). Along the way, you'll pass through small villages and beautiful, expansive landscapes. The monastery is situated at an altitude of 1,705 meters and is one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Nepal. Another authentic experience awaits afterwards: During a visit to a village school, you will encounter bright children's eyes (not during holidays and on weekends). The rest of the day is yours to enjoy as you wish. Stroll through Dhulikhel, admire the mountain panorama, or simply relax with a cup of tea and a good book.

Today's itinerary includes the two royal cities of Bhaktapur and Patan. In Bhaktapur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a fascinating open-air museum awaits you, with magnificent temples and palaces. Explore the city on a leisurely stroll and be sure to try the delicious Juju Dhau, the famous "king of yogurts," from a local shop on Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Next, you'll travel to Patan, the second largest royal city. Here you can stroll through the colorful markets and the lively Durbar Square before returning to Kathmandu.

Although the 2015 earthquake changed Kathmandu, its impact is barely noticeable in today's sights. Many buildings in Durbar Square remained undamaged, allowing you to still experience the unique charm of the old city. Together with your tour guide, you'll wander through the narrow streets, explore the many intact temples and palaces, and witness the meticulous reconstruction efforts of the ambitious Nepalese people. Next, you'll overlook Kathmandu from the city's landmark and one of the holiest sites in the country: the Swayambhunath Stupa complex. Perched high on a hill, the "Monkey Temple"—so named because of the troops of monkeys that inhabit the hill—offers a magnificent view over the Kathmandu Valley. In the afternoon you will travel to Budhanilkantha. Surrounded by flickering butter lamps and incense lies the sleeping Vishnu, one of the most important and extraordinary Hindu statues in Nepal. In the evening, you will meet for a traditional Nepalese farewell dinner in a typical local restaurant and review all the impressions of the trip together.

After a final breakfast, it's time to say goodbye. You'll be transferred to the airport for your flight home. If your flight leaves Kathmandu early in the day, you'll arrive home the same day.

Welcome back – with many pictures of stupas, mountain panoramas, rhinos and the friendly people of Nepal in tow.