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The ABC Heli Return Trek & Bhutan Highlights journey combines high-altitude adventure with deep cultural immersion across two Himalayan nations. Your experience begins in Nepal, where the trek to Annapurna Base Camp leads you through traditional Gurung villages, ancient rhododendron forests, and the dramatic natural amphitheater of the Annapurna Sanctuary. Each day is thoughtfully paced for safety and comfort, culminating in an exclusive helicopter return from ABC to Pokhara a spectacular and time-efficient way to conclude the trekking portion. Along the way, you also explore UNESCO World Heritage treasures such as Kathmandu Durbar Square, the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, and the serene Boudhanath Stupa, blending Himalayan landscapes with centuries of Nepal’s cultural heritage.
From the mountains of Nepal, the journey continues to the Kingdom of Bhutan, a land where spirituality and tradition define everyday life. You will explore Thimphu, cross the scenic Dochula Pass, visit Punakha Dzong- considered Bhutan’s most beautiful fortress and walk through the historic courtyards of Paro. The pilgrimage hike to the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery offers a profound and inspiring finale, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and prayer-flag-filled forests. Designed for travelers seeking a serious, meaningful, and elevated Himalayan experience, this itinerary blends adventure, UNESCO heritage, and cultural depth with exceptional attention to detail in both Nepal and Bhutan.
| Day | Route & Highlights | Highest Altitude | Walking / Hiking Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to hotel, optional walk to Kathmandu Durbar Square & local markets | 1,335 m | 3–4 hrs (easy city walk, optional) |
| Day 2 | Fly Kathmandu → Pokhara, drive to Hile, trek to Ulleri village | 2,000 m | 4–5 hrs |
| Day 3 | Trek from Ulleri through rhododendron forests via Banthanti & Nangethanti to Ghorepani | 2,875 m | 5–6 hrs |
| Day 4 | Sunrise hike to Poon Hill, return to Ghorepani, trek via Tadapani to Chuile | 3,210 m | 6–7 hrs |
| Day 5 | Trek from Chuile via Gurjung & Chhomrong, descend to river and climb to Lower Sinuwa | 2,360 m | 5–6 hrs |
| Day 6 | Trek from Sinuwa via Bamboo & Dovan through dense forest to Himalaya | 2,920 m | 6–7 hrs |
| Day 7 | Trek from Himalaya via Deurali & Machhapuchhre Base Camp to Annapurna Base Camp | 4,130 m | 6–7 hrs |
| Day 8 | Sunrise at Annapurna Base Camp, helicopter flight back to Pokhara, free lakeside time | 822 m | 3–4 hrs (easy walking) |
| Day 9 | Full day in Pokhara for spa, lakeside walk, shopping & optional sightseeing | 822 m | 4–5 hrs (flexible, easy) |
| Day 10 | Fly Pokhara → Kathmandu, visit Pashupatinath Temple & Boudhanath Stupa | 1,335 m | 4–5 hrs (sightseeing) |
| Day 11 | Fly Kathmandu → Paro, drive to Thimphu, visit Memorial Chorten, Tashichho Dzong & Buddha Point | 2,334 m | 3–4 hrs (sightseeing) |
| Day 12 | Thimphu sightseeing, drive via Dochula Pass & Druk Wangyal Lhakhang to Punakha Dzong & Pho Chhu Bridge | 3,100 m | 4–5 hrs (sightseeing & short walks) |
| Day 13 | Scenic drive Punakha → Paro, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, Paro Rinpung Dzong & Ta Dzong (National Museum) | 2,470 m | 5–6 hrs (drive & sightseeing) |
| Day 14 | Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang), visit Drukgyel Dzong, overnight in Paro | 3,120 m | 4–5 hrs (hike) |
| Day 15 | Fly Paro → Kathmandu, free afternoon, evening visit to Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) | 1,335 m | 3–4 hrs (sightseeing) |
| Day 16 | Bhaktapur sightseeing (Durbar Square, 55-Window Palace, Pottery Square) & evening in Thamel | 1,335 m | Sightseeing day |
| Day 17 | Free time as per flight schedule, transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for final departure | 1,335 m | – |
Timing your trek is key to enjoying the best of the Annapurna region. The two most popular seasons—spring and autumn—offer the clearest skies, pleasant temperatures, and rich natural and cultural experiences.
Spring is perfect for witnessing Nepal in full bloom. Rhododendron forests come alive with color, temperatures are mild, and mountain visibility is at its best.
Autumn is the peak trekking season in Nepal. Expect stable weather, crystal-clear views of the Himalayas, and vibrant festivals like Dashain and Tihar enhancing the cultural journey.
| Permit Type | Cost (NPR) | Issued By |
|---|---|---|
| TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System) | 2,000 per person | Tourism Board / Trekking Agency |
| ACAP Permit (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) | 3,000 per person | Tourism Board / Conservation Office |
| Note: All permits are arranged in advance by Himalayan Dream Team for your convenience. | ||
During your Annapurna Base Camp adventure, you'll experience a mix of comfort and simplicity in accommodation and meals. From hotel stays in Kathmandu and Pokhara to traditional teahouses in the mountains, the trek offers authentic Himalayan hospitality along the way.
Accommodation on the trail consists mostly of cozy teahouses and lodges run by local families, offering a warm place to rest each night. In Kathmandu and Pokhara, you'll stay in comfortable hotels arranged by Himalayan Dream Team.
Meals during the trek are hearty, nourishing, and freshly prepared in the mountain teahouses. Most lodges offer a simple menu with both Nepali and international options to keep you energized for each trekking day.
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is rated as a moderate difficulty trek, suitable for beginners and seasoned hikers alike. Reaching a maximum altitude of 4,130 meters, it does not require any technical climbing skills but does demand good physical fitness, steady pacing, and proper acclimatization to adjust to the elevation. With well-marked trails and teahouse accommodations along the route, it remains one of Nepal’s most approachable high-altitude trekking adventures.
1st Day – ABC Heli Return Trek & Bhutan Culture Highlights
Welcome to Nepal! A Himalayan Dream Team representative will greet you with a traditional Nepali flower garland at Tribhuvan International Airport and provide a private transfer to your hotel. After checking in, you may relax and recover from your journey. If you feel ready, enjoy a gentle stroll around the neighborhood to get your first impressions of Kathmandu. In the evening, we invite you for a welcome dinner at one of the city’s finest restaurants, offering authentic Nepali cuisine and warm hospitality.
Depending on your arrival time in Kathmandu, optional sightseeing may include:
2nd Day – ABC Heli Return Trek & Bhutan Culture Highlights
Following breakfast, your representative at Himalayan Dream Team will take you to the domestic terminal for another short 25-minute flight to Pokhara, where you will receive spectacular views of the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges for the duration of the flight.
Following your Pokhara landing, we will drive for 2 hours to Hile (1430 m), the starting point of your trek. The hillside village of Hile is the perfect introduction to the rustic, rural Nepal lifestyle of colorful, multi-storied homes, terraced farms, and warm communities.
From Hile, our trek begins along a scenic trail through subtropical forests, dotted with waterfalls and small villages. After lunch, we cross the Modi Khola River on a suspension bridge and reach Tikhedhunga, a small riverside settlement.
From here, we start our ascent up the famous Ulleri staircase, a steep climb of thousands of stone steps that test your stamina, but reward you with stunning mountain views and a true sense of accomplishment.
Overnight at a cozy teahouse in Ulleri Village, surrounded by rhododendron forests and the warm hospitality of the Gurung people.
3rd Day – ABC Heli Return Trek & Bhutan Culture Highlights
After breakfast, we leave the stone-built village of Ulleri and begin our gradual ascent through beautiful forests of rhododendron, oak and maple. The trail passes through the peaceful hamlets of Banthanti and Nangethanti, where we can rest and enjoy the refreshing mountain air.
As we climb higher, the scenery becomes even more enchanting. During spring, the entire forest glows with red and pink rhododendron blossoms, making this stretch one of the most picturesque in the Annapurna region.
After about five to six hours of walking, we arrive at Ghorepani, a welcoming mountain village that once served as a rest stop for traders traveling between Nepal and Tibet. The name Ghorepani means “horse water,” referring to its historical role as a watering point for caravans.
Today, Ghorepani is a popular resting place for trekkers, offering cozy teahouses, small shops and breathtaking views of Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Hiunchuli, and Nilgiri. As evening falls, the air turns cool and refreshing, inviting you to relax by the fire and enjoy a hearty dinner before resting for the night.
4th Day – ABC Heli Return Trek & Bhutan Culture Highlights
Early in the morning, before sunrise, we hike to the legendary Poon Hill (3,210 m) to witness one of the most magical panoramas in the Himalayas. As the sun rises, the golden light illuminates the peaks of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, and more than twenty Himalayan summits - a breathtaking moment you will remember forever. Enjoy warm tea or coffee at the top while absorbing the incredible scenery.
After capturing the sunrise views, we return to Ghorepani for a hearty breakfast.
From here, our trek continues eastward through lush rhododendron and oak forests, passing sparkling streams and waterfalls. We walk through Tadapani, known for its close-up mountain views, and continue along a quieter, less-crowded trail toward the peaceful village of Chuile.
Chuile offers a serene atmosphere surrounded by forests, with views of the mountains peeking through the trees. It is a beautiful and restful place to end the day.
5th Day – ABC Heli Return Trek & Bhutan Culture Highlights
Today’s journey leads us through scenic forest trails and traditional Gurung villages, offering a perfect blend of nature and culture. After breakfast, we descend from Chuile through lush rhododendron and oak forests, following a peaceful trail toward the charming settlement of Gurjung. Along the way, enjoy terraced fields, small waterfalls, and glimpses of daily village life.
From Gurjung, the trail continues with gentle ascents and descents until we reach the large and vibrant village of Chhomrong (2,170 m)—the last major settlement on the way to Annapurna Base Camp. Chhomrong is famous for its breathtaking close-up views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), as well as its warm Gurung hospitality. We stop here for lunch, surrounded by spectacular Himalayan scenery.
After lunch, we descend a long stone staircase to the Chhomrong Khola and cross the river via a suspension bridge. The trail then climbs steadily through forested slopes to reach Lower Sinuwa (2,360 m), a peaceful village perched on a ridge. The cool air, forest surroundings, and quiet mountain atmosphere make it an ideal resting point for the night.
6th Day – ABC Heli Return Trek & Bhutan Culture Highlights
Today we enter the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary, walking through one of the most beautiful stretches of forest on the entire trek. After breakfast, we follow a gently descending trail through dense forests of bamboo, rhododendron, and oak, eventually reaching the small settlement of Bamboo (2,310 m). This area is cool, shaded, and peaceful — ideal for a short rest.
From Bamboo, the trail gradually ascends along a serene riverside path toward Dovan (2,600 m). The surrounding forest is alive with the sound of flowing water, and occasional openings in the trees reveal towering rock walls and glimpses of Himalayan peaks above.
Continuing upward, the landscape becomes more dramatic as the valley narrows and the mountains rise sharply on both sides. After a steady climb, we arrive at Himalaya (2,920 m) - a small cluster of teahouses nestled deep within the gorge. The air is cooler, the surroundings quieter, and the sense of being surrounded by giant peaks becomes stronger.
Himalaya provides a cozy and calming environment to rest before the next day’s journey toward Deurali and Machhapuchhre Base Camp.
7th Day – ABC Heli Return Trek & Bhutan Culture Highlights
Today is the highlight of your entire trekking journey — the day you walk into the legendary Annapurna Sanctuary.
From Himalaya, the trail gently climbs through a narrowing valley, eventually opening up toward Deurali with stunning views of towering rock cliffs and cascading waterfalls. As we ascend gradually, the vegetation becomes thinner and the air cooler.
We continue toward Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC – 3,700 m), surrounded by dramatic, close-up views of Fishtail Mountain (Machhapuchhre), one of the most iconic peaks in Nepal. After a well-deserved rest at MBC, the trail leads across open alpine terrain toward the breathtaking Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m).
Once at ABC, all you need to do is just stand; and enjoy the show. An entire natural amphitheater of snow-capped peaks will fill the stage (at ABC). Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Tent Peak, Gangapurna, Machhapuchhre all towering of you.
Spend the rest of the afternoon taking photos, exploring the base camp area and absorbing the incredible high-altitude atmosphere.
8th Day – ABC Heli Return Trek & Bhutan Culture Highlights
This morning we will wake up early, don our warm clothes, bundle up for the cold, and head outside to experience the sunrise rising over the mountains at Annapurna Base Camp. This is a memory you will cherish for the rest of your life - the morning light slowly rising over the Annapurna range illuminating the snow-capped peaks of Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and the rest of the towering giants. We will sit a while and soak up the warmth of the morning light.
After enjoying your final moments at base camp, we board a scenic helicopter flight back to Pokhara. This short but unforgettable journey offers dramatic aerial views of the Annapurna Range, hanging glaciers, deep river valleys, and terraced landscapes — an experience that perfectly concludes the trekking portion of your adventure.
Upon landing in Pokhara, your guide will transfer you to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax and enjoy the lakeside atmosphere at your own pace.
9th Day – ABC Heli Return Trek & Bhutan Culture Highlights
Today is your well-deserved recovery and enjoyment day in Pokhara, the most beautiful lake city in Nepal. After the challenging but rewarding trek, this day is designed for comfort, relaxation, and gentle exploration.
You have the option to spend the day exploring any of the following:
Shopping:
Pokhara offers excellent opportunities for:
Optional Activities
Spend the evening enjoying Pokhara’s calm atmosphere before your upcoming cultural journey to Bhutan.
10th Day – ABC Heli Return Trek & Bhutan Culture Highlights
After breakfast, you fly back to Kathmandu on a short and scenic flight offering panoramic views of the Himalayas, rolling hills, and river valleys. Upon arrival, your Himalayan Dream Team guide will meet you for a cultural tour of two of Nepal’s most important spiritual sites.
First, you visit Pashupatinath Temple, the holiest Hindu pilgrimage site in Nepal. Located on the banks of the Bagmati River, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its ancient shrines, spiritual rituals, and the open-air cremation area where families come to perform last rites. You will also see holy sadhus and devotees engaged in prayer and meditation.
Next, you continue to the peaceful Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest and most sacred Buddhist stupas in the world. The calm energy of the great white dome and the watchful Buddha eyes create a powerful sense of serenity. You may join pilgrims walking kora (circumambulation), spin prayer wheels, or spend a quiet moment in one of the surrounding monasteries before relaxing at a rooftop café overlooking the stupa.
This meaningful spiritual tour offers a gentle cultural transition before your upcoming journey to Bhutan.
11th Day – ABC Heli Return Trek & Bhutan Culture Highlights
Your day will begin with one of the most beautiful and scenic flights to Thimphu, with beautiful aerial views of the Himalayas including the heart-stopping Kanchenjunga and Everest! Warm and friendly Bhutanese guides will meet you upon arrival, and you will have the pleasure of Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital city.
Once you’re checked in to your hotel, you will start your city tour with a light tour at the National Memorial Chorten, a place of peace, and to honor the 3rd King of Bhutan. Your next destination is Tashichho Dzong, a spectacular fort which is also the King’s office. The fort also contains many government ministries. Your day will end at Kuenselphodrang Buddha Point, a hill that has the largest sitting Buddha statue in the world, and fabulous views of the Thimphu Valley.
Before your dinner this evening, you will have the opportunity to peacefully walk through the streets of the city and admire the silence and calmness of the area.
12th Day – ABC Heli Return Trek & Bhutan Culture Highlights
After a warm breakfast, your day begins with a guided sightseeing tour of Thimphu, followed by a scenic drive to Punakha.
Thimphu Highlights:
Drive to Punakha:
- Stop at Dochula Pass (3,100m) to admire the 108 memorial chortens and, on a clear day, stunning views of the eastern Himalayas.
- Visit Druk Wangyal Lhakhang, a temple built in honor of Bhutan's fourth and fifth kings.
- Explore the magnificent Punakha Dzong, beautifully set at the meeting point of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers.
- End the day with a walk across the Pho Chhu Suspension Bridge, the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan, offering beautiful river and valley views.
13th Day – ABC Heli Return Trek & Bhutan Culture Highlights
After breakfast, we leave Punakha and enjoy a beautiful scenic drive back to Paro, passing through lush valleys, winding mountain roads, and traditional villages along the way. Our first visit in Paro is to Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples, believed to have been built in the 7th century.
Following lunch, we explore the impressive Paro Rinpung Dzong, a striking fortress-monastery that showcases classic Bhutanese architecture and holds deep historical and spiritual significance. We conclude the day with a visit to Ta Dzong, once a watchtower and now home to the National Museum of Bhutan, where ancient relics, art, and artifacts offer deeper insight into thecountry’s rich cultural heritage.
14th Day – ABC Heli Return Trek & Bhutan Culture Highlights
After an early breakfast, you begin your hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), perched dramatically on a cliff 900 meters above Paro Valley. The trail passes through pine forests filled with prayer flags and takes about 4-5 hours round trip, with the option to ride a horse up to the halfway viewpoint café. As you ascend, the first clear view of the monastery appears -a striking sight that symbolizes Bhutan’s spiritual heart. Inside the complex, you explore sacred meditation caves where Guru Rinpoche is believed to have meditated after flying here on the back of a tigress.
After descending and having lunch in Paro, your afternoon continues with a visit to the newly restored Drukgyel Dzong, originally built to commemorate Bhutan’s victory over Tibetan invaders. On clear days, you may also enjoy distant views of the majestic Mount Jomolhari. The accommodation will be at Paro to relax and have a good night sleep.
15th Day – ABC Heli Return Trek & Bhutan Culture Highlights
In the morning, you are transferred to Paro Airport for your scenic flight back to Kathmandu. On clear days, this route offers magnificent views of the Himalayas, including Everest and other towering peaks. Upon arrival, our Himalayan Dream Team representative will welcome you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. The rest of the afternoon is free to relax, unwind, or enjoy the city at your own pace after your Bhutan journey.
In the evening, we visit Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, one of Nepal’s oldest and most revered Buddhist sites. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the entire Kathmandu Valley, this sacred stupa is adored by both Buddhists and Hindus. As you walk around the prayer wheels and colorful prayer flags, enjoy panoramic sunset views and soak in the peaceful spiritual atmosphere that makes Swayambhunath truly special.
16th Day – ABC Heli Return Trek & Bhutan Culture Highlights
After breakfast, we drive to the medieval king’s city of Bhaktapur, located 13 km from Kathmandu. Known as the best-preserved ancient city in the valley, Bhaktapur is famous for its cobbled streets, narrow alleys, exquisite temples, and beautifully crafted architecture. During our tour, we explore several cultural highlights:
In the evening, we return to Kathmandu and visit the vibrant neighborhood of Thamel, known for its colorful streets, handicraft shops, cafés, live music, and lively nightlife. You can explore at your own pace, pick up souvenirs, or enjoy a final dinner in one of the area’s many restaurants.
17th Day – ABC Heli Return Trek & Bhutan Culture Highlights
Depending on your flight schedule, we will arrange a timely transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your journey back home. Our team will assist you with all departure formalities, ensuring a smooth and comfortable conclusion to your unforgettable Himalayan and Bhutan adventure. We wish you a safe flight and hope to welcome you again to Nepal and the Himalayas.
Nepal Part – Includes
Bhutan part: Including
© 2011 - 2025 All rights reserved. Himalayan Dream Team
Elizabeth H.
5th April, 2025
Our ABC Heli Return Trek + Bhutan Highlights with the Himalayan Dream Team was the trip of a lifetime. As soon as we landed in Kathmandu, we were taken care of like family. Every step of the way, the team organized everything with care and made us feel like family not far from home. The trek to Annapurna Base Camp was amazing, and hopping on a helicopter after the trek to Pokhara is something we will always remember. Bhutan was just as amazing in a different way - it was a lot more quiet and tranquil, and the guidance was exceptional.
Our sincere appreciation goes to Indira and also to Sameer, Om, and the whole local team based in Kathmandu. Your professionalism, hospitality and kindness, made the whole experience smooth, safe and meaningful. We will recommend Himalayan Dream Team to all of our friends and family and we will no doubt be returning. Thank you for the priceless memories.
Greetings from
Didi Elizabeth H. and Dai Rob
Jan V. Elst
3rd May, 2025
This was our second time traveling with Himalayan Dream Team, and our experience on the Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp - return by helicoptor with Bhutan Culture Highlights was nothing short of extraordinary. What a perfect combination of adventure and culture. Just like last year, when we trekked Everest Gokyo Lake with them, everything was organized with incredible care. From beginning to end, the whole trip felt smooth, safe, and expertly managed.A special thank you to Indira, who stayed in close contact throughout our journey, always making sure everything was going well. Her knowledge and guidance gave us the confidence to fully enjoy every moment, knowing we were in safe and capable hands. We were also happy to have Mingma as a guide . Our porter, too, was attentive, kind and always ready to help. They truly go above and beyond to ensure you are well looked after, and they are such enjoyable company on the trail.
We already know we’ll be returning in 16 months, and without hesitation, we will be booking again with Himalayan Dream Team.
Thank you for another unforgettable adventure, you all are just amazing!
Namaste!
Jan & Helena