Nepal

[Adder]

Looking for some tips from the collective wisdom of HfP. Planning two and half weeks in Nepal in early October this year for two for a birthday trip (we both hit an unwelcome milestone this year!) and keen for any recommendations or suggestions for the best way to spend it.

We love trekking (but aren’t bothered by Everest BC on this trip) bookended by good food and culture. Happy to stay in anything from a basic homestay to luxury boutiques but prefer to avoid major chains. Budget is, within reason, flexible to suit what will make the trip memorable.

Some current thoughts:

2/3 days in Kathmandu
4 day hike (Poon Hill from Pokhara perhaps?)
2/3 days in Chitwan National Park

So we have a few days to play with. Very aware getting around can be a challenge by road, so will be flying internally where possible but also leaving time to adapt to weather if necessary.

Thanks in advance for your thoughts!

[can2]

I don’t understand what you mean by avoiding chains!

😉

[can2]

I don’t hike, but other than that I think 2.5 weeks sounds tad too much for Nepal.
I’ve been there before the quake, I am not sure what survived (not much) in Kath.

What I regretted skipping from my last time there was to combine that trip with Bhutan and Darjeeling.
And, visiting the birth place of buddha.

[ChasP]

Had 5 days in Chitwan – many moons ago but doubt if its changed much
TigerTops was superb although an American pair complained bitterly that the water wasnt hot enough!
Did the Elephant safaris etc but the highlight was a walk in the jungle with a local guide

[ChasP]

We combined it with 3 days total relaxation on a houseboat in Srinigar – not sure what the political situation is now

[BBbetter]

Bhutan is a great shout.

Another leftfield suggestion is Dharamshala. Probably the last chance to see Dalai Lama before China crush the institution. And watch some cricket if you are lucky.
You also have plenty of other hill stations like Darjeeling, Mussourie and Nainital.

[cin3]

So many good hikes even if you ignore BC. But strong disagree that 2.5 weeks is too long.

If you do go to India I can also strongly recommend a week or so in Dharamshala. Bir also very nice.

[Adder]

Thanks all, very helpful! Guide book has just arrived so will dive into that and get planning