Ancient craft, endless peaks.
Temples, artisans, and the highest peaks on earth — eight days at the roof of the world.
Nepal has always drawn travelers toward something larger than themselves — eight of the world's tallest mountains, some of the oldest living temples on earth, and artisans whose craft has been passed down for generations.
This is where you'll wander Kathmandu's ancient streets and Patan's workshops, learning traditions that have shaped this valley for centuries. You'll rise into the Himalaya for views that put everything back into perspective, and slow down beside glassy Pokhara lakes when it's time to rest.
Come expecting sacred stupas, handmade traditions, and mountains that touch the sky. Leave with a deeper respect for the artisans who make it, and the quiet reminder of how small — and how connected — the world really is.
Julie Grubb
Noonday travel is hands-down my favorite kind of travel. After ten official trips (plus a few extra journeys of my own), I've learned there's real magic in moving through a country with fellow travel and culture lovers. Walking into the workshops of the women who make our pieces is the most beautiful travel experience I know.
Breathe it all in.
Arrival
Arrive in Kathmandu and settle in. If time permits, a little exploring and/or spa time before a relaxed welcome dinner, where you'll meet your fellow travelers and begin the journey together.
Connection
Spend the day with Noonday's artisan partners, learning the stories and skills behind their craft. Take an optional early flight over the Himalaya for a rare glimpse of Everest, then explore Old Kathmandu by rickshaw as evening falls.
Culture
Begin the morning with a bit of shopping at Dhukuti, our artisan partner's fair trade store, before continuing on to Patan, the city of artisans. Learn the art of Nepali culinary in a local home, then meet an ex-Kumari, a former Living Goddess, for a rare glimpse into this centuries-old tradition.
Ascent
Fly to Pokhara, gateway to the Annapurna range. Explore an incredible waterfall and cave before a cable car ride up to your gorgeous hotel, framed by lakes and snowcapped peaks. Spend the afternoon soaking in the mountain views around you and indulge in some optional spa time.
Rest or Rush
Ease into the morning with spectacular sunrise views, then visit World Peace Pagoda for sweeping Himalayan panoramas followed by boating on the lake. If you're after more of a thrill, opt for paragliding or ziplining — then save time to wander the Old Bazaar before evening.
Light
Fly back to Kathmandu and visit Boudhanath Stupa, one of the most sacred sites in Tibetan Buddhism. Light a butter lamp at dusk before a rooftop sundowner.
Tradition
Explore Thimi and Bhaktapur, ancient towns where pottery and craft traditions have passed hand to hand for generations. Try your hand at the potter's wheel, then wander UNESCO-listed temple squares steeped in centuries of history. Keep an eye out for oil lamps and marigold garlands along the way — you'll be visiting during Laxmi Puja, one of the most important days of Nepal's Tihar festival. As evening falls, gather for a lavish, 9-course Nepalese dinner, to cap off our incredible time together.
Homeward
Share one last breakfast before departing Kathmandu, carrying home new stories, new friendships, and a deeper connection to the artisans who made it all possible.
Included
- All ground transportation
- Domestic flight Kathmandu–Pokhara (round trip)
- Boutique accommodations, including all breakfasts
- Most other meals (4 lunches, 5 dinners)
- All activities in the itinerary except optional add-ons
- Noonday Experience Guide
Not included
- International airfare
- Travel insurance (required)
- Shopping budget, spa services & alcohol
- Optional add-ons (Everest scenic flight, paragliding, ziplining)
- Airport transfers if you arrive outside of our group arrival/departure windows
- Gratuities for guides & drivers
Ready to go?
Good to know.
How physically demanding is this trip?
Nepal involves some walking on uneven, hilly terrain, particularly in Bhaktapur, Patan, and around Pokhara's temples and pagoda. If you are sensitive to elevation, Kathmandu & the Sarangkot Mountain Lodge are both around 5,000 feet above sea level. Optional add-ons like paragliding or the Everest scenic flight aren't required to enjoy the full experience.
Where will we stay?
In Kathmandu, you'll stay at the Hotel Yak & Yeti, a 5-star luxury heritage hotel partly housed in a 19th-century palace — the first hotel of its kind in Nepal.
In Pokhara, you'll stay at Sarangkot Mountain Lodge, a 5-star luxury hotel on a ridge with 360-degree panoramic views of the Annapurna range. They have a highly rated in-house spa.
Where will we fly in/out of?
Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu (KTM). International airfare is not included, so you can have flexibility in how and when you want to book.
Is this trip for ladies only?
Yes — this is a women-only journey, designed for connection and community among female travelers.
Can I travel by myself?
Absolutely — many of our travelers come solo and leave with lifelong friends. If you'd prefer a room to yourself, you can select a single supplement at registration. If you register for a double room without a roommate in mind, we'll do our best to match you with another traveler after registration.
Can I arrive early or extend my trip afterwards?
Yes, absolutely! We recommend arriving early if you can, especially for destinations with significant time changes, to give yourself a jump on adjusting. We'd love to help with recommendations on what to do, and can connect you with our on-the-ground tour operators if you'd like help organizing something bigger. Just ask!
Do I need to have traveled internationally before?
Not at all. Many of our travelers are brand new to international travel, and our guides are there to help every step of the way — from what to pack to facilitating the group moments that help us reflect, connect, and grow together.
What's included in the trip price?
All ground transportation, the domestic flight between Kathmandu and Pokhara, boutique accommodations with breakfast, most other meals, all itinerary activities, and your Noonday Experience Guide. We intentionally leave a few meals open, so you have some flexibility.
What is the cancellation policy?
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What is the required traveler's insurance?
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Ready to go?
Trips are intentionally small and fill quickly. Sign up now, or reach out and we'll help you choose the experience that fits.
