Royal Trek
At a Glance
  • Duration9 Days
  • Difficulty Level Easy
  • Max Altitude 1800 M
  • Group Size Up to 10 Pax
  • Starts Kathmandu Airport
  • Ends Kathmandu Airport

The Royal Trek is a delightful and culturally enriching experience in the Annapurna region. Known for its heritage, this trek is named after Prince Charles, who explored the area in the 1980s. 

The Annapurna Royal Trek seamlessly combines cultural exploration with stunning mountain views, taking you through charming terraced fields, enchanting rhododendron forests, and diverse villages. Along the way, you'll be treated to breathtaking sights of the Annapurna range, Mt. Langtang, and the iconic Mt. Fishtail.

What sets the Royal Trek apart is its ability to immerse you in the essence of Nepal's village life and age-old traditions. Tailor-made for those with limited time, it's a brief way to embrace the natural allure and cultural tapestry of the Annapurna region.

Embarking on this 9 days journey begins with a scenic drive to Pokhara, a picturesque lakeside city. From there, the trail leads to Vijayapur and you will begin a refreshing hike to Kalikasthan. Throughout your journey, you'll pass through quaint villages like Syanglung and Chisapani, each offering a glimpse into the heart of local living. 

The Royal Trekking is a hidden gem in the Annapurna region, perfect for those seeking an authentic and visually captivating experience in the Himalayas of Nepal. Its off-the-beaten-path charm adds more beauty to the entire trail, making it a treasure for explorers seeking both culture and nature.

Major highlights of the Royal Trekking

  • Witness the panoramic view of Annapurna and the Dhaulagiri mountain range.
  • Explore the small ethnic villages along the way.
  • Witness and experience the unique culture and traditions of ethnic communities.
  • Embark on an off-beaten trail of the region.
  • Pass through terrace fields and rhododendron forests during the trek. 

Why should you choose the Annapurna Royal Trek?

The Annapurna Royal Trek is an adventure that offers cultural immersion and stunning natural vistas. This trek, named after Prince Charles' offers you a beautiful blend of heritage and scenic beauty in one journey. 

You'll get to wander through terraced fields, rhododendron forests, and charming villages, treating your eyes to breathtaking views of Annapurna, Langtang, and Fishtail mountains. If you are looking for a less popular trail in the Annapurna region that takes you through a culturally enriching experience, the Annapurna royal trek is an ideal choice. 

Is Royal Trek Nepal a right fit for you?

The Royal Trek Nepal is a perfect fit for those seeking an easy yet culturally significant trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal. If you're fascinated by local customs, diverse villages, and captivating mountain panoramas, this trek is a perfect fit. 

Tailored for travelers with limited time, this short journey is an opportunity to savor the beauty of the Annapurna region while immersing yourself in the cultural richness of the area. As it is a significantly less challenging trip, anyone with an average level of fitness can complete the trek successfully.

The difficulty level of the Royal Trekking in Nepal

The Royal Trek in Nepal is considered to be of moderate difficulty. It falls in the Grade B category, which includes treks that last around 7 to 10 days, typically at altitudes ranging from 3000m to 5000m. 

This level of trekking is suited for those with some hiking experience and a moderate level of fitness. The Royal Trek involves a mix of uphill and downhill trails, along with varied terrains like terraced farmlands and forest routes. 

Overall, the Royal Trekking offers a moderate and rewarding adventure for trekkers looking to explore the cultural and natural beauty of the Annapurna region in a short time without much physical work.  

How to get ready for the Royal Trek to Nepal?

Preparing for the Royal Trek involves getting engaged in a light workout before the trek to build stamina for walking around 4 to 5 hours each day on average. 

Packing light yet efficiently is another step to preparing yourself for the trip. Ensure you have comfortable trekking shoes, appropriate clothing, and essential gear. You can further familiarize yourself with tipping customs, local communities, and the trail. Finally, make sure you have a positive attitude and respect for local traditions and nature while traversing through the diverse villages throughout the trail.

Route for the Royal Trek Nepal

The route of the Royal Trek Nepal starts with a drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara. From Pokhara, you will have a short ride to Vijayapur which is the starting point of your walk. You will then start the walk to Kalikasthan, Syanglung, and Chisapani respectively while you also pass by several other traditional settlements along the route. 

The route overall offers you a cultural essence as you get to dive into the local lifestyle and traditions of the communities there. From Chisapani, you will trek to Begnas and then have a short ride to Pokhara that concludes your 9 days trip. 

The Royal Trek Nepal 9 Days Itinerary

The 9 days journey of the Royal trekking starts with a scenic drive to Pokhara, a picturesque lakeside city. From there, the trail leads to Vijayapur, where your trek begins. On the way, you will pass through several other traditional villages.

This is an itinerary prepared to cater to every trekker's preference. However, if you would like to change the itinerary, or extend or shorten the trip, it can be tailored to your preferences, ensuring a personalized experience.

Itinerary

Show Detail ItineraryHide Detail Itinerary

    This is your arrival day in Nepal. One of our representatives will be at Tribhuvan International Airport to greet and welcome you during your arrival time. You'll then be escorted to the hotel in Kathmandu. After completing all the check-in procedures, you are free to take rest for the rest of the day at the hotel. Overnight stay at Kathmandu. 

    • Meet and greet at the airport.
    • Freshen up and rest at the hotel.

      It is a day for you to explore Kathmandu city. Today you'll be visiting some famous landmarks of the city which are also listed as UNESCO world heritage sites. All the places you'll be visiting today hold ancient history and showcase the beauty of Nepali arts and culture. You'll visit Kathmandu Durbar Square, a famous hangout spot for both tourists and locals. Other sites you'll be visiting are; Pashupatinath Temple, the oldest and biggest Hindu shrine in the country. And, the famous stupa, Swayambhunath. After exploring all the sites, you'll be escorted back to the hotel. There, you'll have a short briefing session about the trek with your guide. Overnight stay at Kathmandu.

      • A sacred Hindu temple, Pashupatinath.
      • Visit the famous stupa Swayambhunath.
      • Explore Kathmandu Durbar Square.

      During the evening briefing session, make sure to ask freely your guides if you've confused and have queries regarding the trek. 

        Today, the day starts with an early morning drive to Pokhara. The drive today is very smooth and fun through scenic sights. You can get some amazing views of landscapes, hills, rivers, and scenic settlements during the drive. After the drive of around 7-8 hours, you'll finally arrive at Pokhara. Once you arrive at Pokhara, you are free to choose to rest at the hotel or go around the lakeside to explore and stroll. You can also try boating at the serene Phewa Lake. Overnight stay at Pokhara.

        • Long scenic drive to Pokhara.
        • Boating at Phewa Lake.
        • Explore and stroll around Pokhara.

        Today, you can ask for your guide's help if you have any necessary things left to buy for the trek as it is the final city before you head to the countryside valleys.

          Today, you'll first head to Vijayapur through a drive. It is a short drive of around 45 minutes from Pokhara. After the drive, you'll start the hike on foot as you head to Kalikasthan. The walk starts through flat paddy fields alongside the river. Once you cross the river, the uphill walk to Kalikasthan begins. After walking for around 4-5 hours, you'll arrive at Kalikasthan where you'll be spending the night. Overnight stay at Kalikasthan. 

          • Short drive to Vijayapur.
          • Walk alongside the river.

            The trek continues as you head to Syanglung from Kalikasthan today. During the walk today, you can get some spectacular views of the Annapurna and Lamjung Himal. You'll pass through several small villages and lush rhododendron forests on the way. Finally, after 5-6 hours of walking, you'll arrive at Syanglung. Overnight stay at Syanglung. 

            • Scenic views of Annapurna and Lamjung Himal.
            • Small villages and rhododendron forests are on the way.

              Today, the trail will lead you to a village called Chisapani. The walk starts through Gurung village where you can witness the local culture and lifestyle of the Gurung community. Moving further, the trail takes a turn to a rhododendron forest and finally, after a few more ascents and descent, you'll arrive at Chisapani. From Chisapani you can get a panoramic view of the mountains. Overnight stay at Chisapani. 

              • Witness the culture and lifestyle of the Gurung community.
              • Panoramic views of mountains. 

                This is the final walking day of your trek as you first head to Begnas from Chisapani. You'll start the walk with a downhill to Rupatal and then ascend to Sundare Danda. Another 15-20 minutes of walk will lead you to Begnas Tal where you can enjoy boating. From Begnas, you'll drive back to the hotel in Pokhara. Overnight stay at Pokhara.

                  You'll get back to Kathmandu today through a short flight of 30 minutes. Once you arrive in Kathmandu, you'll be escorted to the hotel. You're free for the rest of the day to choose if you want to rest or explore and go shopping around the city. In the evening you'll have a farewell dinner with our team as it is your final day in Nepal. Overnight stay at Kathmandu. 

                  • Short scenic flight back to Kathmandu.
                  • Farewell dinner at Kathmandu.

                    You'll be going back to your home country today. One of our representatives will be there to drop you off at the airport and bid you farewell during your departure time.

                    Cost Details

                    Cost Includes
                    • All ground transport in a private vehicle, including airport transfers
                    • Three nights accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu
                    • Two nights accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star category hotel in Pokhara
                    • 3 standard meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) during the trek
                    • Snacks of seasonal fruits during the trek
                    • Best available twin sharing lodge for accommodation during the trek.
                    • Pokhara to Kathmandu by Tourist bus & Airfare from Pokhara to Kathmandu
                    • Himalayan Recreation’s experienced, government licensed, English speaking trekking guide during the trip.
                    • Porter services (1 porter = 2 trekkers)
                    • All costs of staff which includes food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment’s and medicines.
                    • Duffel bag use while trekking, Trekking map and trip achievement certificate
                    • Required Mardi Himal Permit fee and TIMS Fee
                    • First aid medicine kit
                    • Farewell dinner with Cultural show in a fine restaurant on second last day.
                    • Government taxes & office service charge
                    Cost Excludes
                    • Meals not specified in the 'Meal Inclusions' in the above itinerary
                    • Personal Travel insurance, which covers emergency Rescue and Evacuation.
                    • Personal trekking equipment or expenses
                    • Alcoholic drinks and beverages
                    • Tips for trekking guides, porters and drivers (tipping is expected)
                    • Any other expenses that are not mentioned in the 'Price Includes' section.

                    Dates & Prices

                    Select a departure month
                    Starts:Monday Dec 16, 2024
                    Ends:Tuesday Dec 24, 2024
                    Price US$599
                    Status Available
                    Starts:Wednesday Dec 18, 2024
                    Ends:Thursday Dec 26, 2024
                    Price US$599
                    Status Available
                    Starts:Friday Dec 20, 2024
                    Ends:Saturday Dec 28, 2024
                    Price US$599
                    Status Available
                    Starts:Sunday Dec 22, 2024
                    Ends:Monday Dec 30, 2024
                    Price US$599
                    Status Available
                    Starts:Tuesday Dec 24, 2024
                    Ends:Wednesday Jan 01, 2025
                    Price US$599
                    Status Available
                    Starts:Thursday Dec 26, 2024
                    Ends:Friday Jan 03, 2025
                    Price US$599
                    Status Available
                    Starts:Saturday Dec 28, 2024
                    Ends:Sunday Jan 05, 2025
                    Price US$599
                    Status Available
                    Starts:Monday Dec 30, 2024
                    Ends:Tuesday Jan 07, 2025
                    Price US$599
                    Status Available

                    Know Before You Go

                    Luggage and storage facility during the Royal Trekking

                    We offer the facility of storing your baggage and stuff while you hit the trail if you have any excess luggage. You will get to have your luggage stored in the hotel in Kathmandu or our office while you go for the trek. 

                    While you have the option to hire a porter for the journey, keep in mind that a single porter can carry 25 kg of weight, which will be shared by two trekkers.

                    Transportation facilities for the Royal Trek Nepal

                    For transportation, during the beginning of the journey, you will have a bus ride from Kathmandu to Pokhara, From Pokhara you will then head to the starting point of the trek at Vijayapur on a private vehicle. 

                    Similarly, after the completion of your trek, you will have a drive back to Pokhara from Begnas in a private vehicle. Once you arrive in Pokhara, you will then have a short flight back to Kathmandu.

                    Packing list and essentials for the Annapurna Royal trekking

                    When preparing for the Annapurna Royal Trek, make sure to pack wisely. Essential items for the journey include comfortable trekking shoes, appropriate clothing for different weather conditions, a warm jacket, gloves, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. A good camera that can capture breathtaking scenery, will further make your journey even more enjoyable. To have more idea about the Packing List and essentials for trekking in Nepal.  

                    Best time to embark on the Royal trek

                    Choosing the perfect time to embark on the Royal Trek enhances your experience. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are considered to be the best seasons to complete the royal trek. However, the trek can be completed throughout the year with proper preparations. 

                    During spring, the weather is pleasant, and colorful flowers decorate the trail, making the walk pleasing including the famous rhododendrons, bloom, which adds vibrancy to your journey. Similarly in autumn, the skies remain clear, offering uninterrupted views of the majestic mountains throughout the walk. The mild temperatures and stable weather during these seasons make your trek comfortable and provide you with breathtaking scenery. 

                    As for the other two remaining seasons monsoon and winter are not considered the best time for the journey. In the monsoon season, there might be some trouble along the walk as the trail can be blocked because of landslides and heavy rain. Similarly in winter, the cold can make it tough to complete the journey however, with proper preparation, it is still possible. 

                    Accommodation during the Royal trekking

                    Accommodation during the Royal trekking includes a stay in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara which can be customized according to your preference. 

                    As you hit the trail, you will be staying in teahouses and lodges. These lodges and teahouses offer you a comfortable place to rest after a day's journey. You'll find basic amenities such as beds, blankets, and shared bathroom facilities. 

                    As you ascend to higher elevations, the facilities might become more subtle due to the remoteness of the locations. While the comforts may be simple, the warmth of these lodges and teahouses provides a cozy environment to relax and rest after a day of adventure.

                    Food and drinking water during the Annapurna Royal Trek Nepal

                    You will be provided with three times meals during the trek which does not include the food during your stay in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Food choices you will get along the trail include traditional Nepalese dishes like Dal Bhat (lentil soup with rice and vegetables) and Momo (dumplings) for lunch and dinner. 

                    You can also find familiar international options like pizza and sandwiches in the lower parts of the trekking route. As for breakfast, you can savor local bread with curry, honey, and butter or enjoy bread with jam, butter, coffee, or tea. To keep your energy levels up, we recommend carrying some snacks like energy bars and biscuits. 

                    Ensuring proper hydration along the journey is equally crucial, and you can find bottled water along the trail. While tap water also is accessible, using water filter bottles or purification tablets is recommended to have safe drinking water and keep the environment clean.

                    Cost details for the Royal Trekking Nepal

                    The cost of Royal Trekking Nepal differs according to the facilities and services included, itinerary, length of the trip, route, and number of trekkers. In general, the cost can range from USD 400 to USD 1000 depending on the mentioned factors.

                    The cost usually includes all the expenses of the accommodation, three meals during the trek, guide and porter service, transportation, and permits required for the trip. Also, the overall cost can be affected depending on the trip you choose, that is whether a group trip or a private trip. For group trips, we offer certain discounts, so the cost can be relatively lower, whereas, private and solo trips can be costly.

                    Permits required for the Annapurna Royal trek

                    For the Trek, you need to obtain two permits, which are: 

                    • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): It costs NPR 3,000 (approximately USD 25)
                    • Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card: It costs NPR 1,000 (approximately USD 8)

                    Tipping Idea to Guide and Porter

                    Tipping is a customary practice to show appreciation for the hard work of guides and porters during your Annapurna Royal Trek. While the amount is your preference, a known guideline is around 10% of the total trek cost. 

                    It's a gesture of gratitude you can show for the assistance of staff and guides in making your trek safe and enjoyable. 

                    Travel tips for the Royal Trek Nepal

                    • Stay hydrated throughout the trek by drinking plenty of water.
                    • Acclimatize gradually and walk at a slow pace to higher altitudes to prevent altitude-related issues.
                    • Respect local customs and traditions as you get to engage with the friendly locals.
                    • Pack layers of clothing for varying weather conditions.
                    • Carry essentials like a reusable water bottle, purification tablets a headlamp, and a first aid kit.
                    • Practice responsible trekking by minimizing your impact on the environment.
                    • Carry enough cash for the entire trip and separate some for miscellaneous expenses. 
                    • Listen to the instructions of your guide along the trail. 

                    Booking Royal Trek with Himalayan Recreation in 2025/2026

                    Embarking on the Royal Trek with Himalayan Recreation offers you a well-organized and memorable experience. To ensure your convenience, we are available 24/7 to assist with your queries and booking process. 

                    For a smooth booking process, we have several multiple payment options, including online platforms and bank transfers. You can find detailed terms, conditions, and booking policies on our website to ensure a smooth and hassle-free booking process.

                    Last-minute booking with Himalayan Recreation

                    If you have unexpected plans for the Royal Trek, Himalayan Recreation offers last-minute bookings with flexibility. While booking in advance is suggested for a smooth process, we are here to guide you through the last-minute trip. Keep in mind that you need to make full payment before starting the journey for a last-minute trip with Himalayan Recreation. 

                    Responsible travel with Himalayan Recreation

                    Himalayan Recreation is committed to promoting responsible and sustainable travel practices in all our treks and expeditions. Similarly, in royal trekking Nepal, we aim to minimize our impact on the environment, support local communities, and preserve the natural beauty of the regions we explore. Join us now for the eco-friendly trekking experience in the Annapurna Royal trek route in 2025/2026. 

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