The Sherpa's trail: trekking in Nepal

Day 1 : International outbound flight

Today you begin your journey by boarding your international outbound flight to Kathmandu.

Day 2 : Kathmandu

Arrive in Kathmandu. If you have time this afternoon, you might like to explore the cafes around your hotel - try a local momo, a traditional dumpling.

Day 3 : Birethanti

Early morning flight to Pokhara. You'll be picked up and driven to the trek start point from Pokhara, which takes about one hour. After arriving at the trail head, you'll start your walk along fairly level terrain. Trek along a ridge which ends in the Modi Khola Valley. Reach the small village of Birethanti, where you'll cross the iron bridge, bedecked with prayer flags, over the Modi Khola River. Here you'll walk parallel to the river on a dirt track before arriving at Sanctuary Lodge, which is set close to the river.

Day 4 : Ghandruk

From Sanctuary Lodge, walk alongside the river before bearing left and starting the slow climb up to Ghandruk. You will be climbing fairly steadily upwards on well-paved steps, and at times will traverse across the paddy fields, where you will see rice and crops being grown, and the occasional goat or ox being driven by the local people. A picnic lunch on a shaded terrace will be a welcome refreshment. After five to six hours, you will reach the village of Ghandruk, which has fantastic views of the valley below. Himalaya Lodge is at one end of this village, and has the most wonderful views of the beautiful Annapurna mountains.

Day 5 : Tanchock

Today you can rise early to watch the sunrise illuminate the surrounding peaks, before breakfasting and setting off for the descent into the valley. After two to three hours you will reach Shauli Bazaar next to the river. Picnic lunch can be taken near here. After lunch, the trail continues parallel to the river. From here on you will be climbing fairly steadily upwards on well-paved steps. There is more shade on this side of the valley, as the land has been less-widely cultivated. After two to three hours, you will reach the small village of Tanchock and the welcome sign of Gurung Lodge.

Day 6 : Kathmandu

Finish the trek and drive to Pokhara to catch your flight to Kathmandu.On arrival in Katmandu you will be met and driven to your hotel in the city. You can relax in your hotel or explore some of the nearby markets.

Day 7 : Everest Region

Early morning flight to Lukla in the Everest region. On arrival you will be met and begin your trek to Phakding. A good introductory trek, you will arrive at your traditional tea house lodge in time for dinner.

Day 8 : Everest Region

Today's trek is a challenging one, so make sure you are well rested and have a good sized breakfast. The first hour or so of the trek today is on undulating paths, and you will pass many beautifully carved mani stones. Soon after you enter the national park you will go over a high steel cabled suspension bridge and begin the climb up to Namche. The path here becomes steep, uneven and rocky, and you will be climbing through a mixture of pine forested and open terrain. About two thirds of the way up you will have your first glimpse of Everest if the weather permits - ask your guide to point it out to you. Once you reach Namche Bazaar the best advice is to relax for the rest of the day.

Day 9 : Everest Region

Day at leisure to acclimatise. It's a good idea to do a little walking in the local area to get accustomed to the altitude.

Day 10 : Everest Region

Today's trek to Thame ia a three to five hour trek that takes you through villages that have trading links with Tibet. You'll be rewarded with spectacular mountain views right across the everest range today.

Day 11 : Everest Region

Trek to Khumjung Sherpa Villages today. You will have the chance to stop and take refreshments in a local tea house along the way.

Day 12 : Everest Region

Today you will trek to the small village of Monjo, this is a four to six hour trek that takes you via Syangboche Everest View Hotel and Namche Village.

Day 13 : Everest Region

Today is a relatively easy day as you trek back to Luckla. You will enjoy your last night in a tea house lodge before flying back to Kathmandu.

Day 14 : Kathmandu

Fly back to Kathmandu. The afternoon is free, you might like to visit Bodnath stupa - an important buddhist pilgrimage site and the funeral ghats at Pashupatinath. Both sights offer a unique and interesting taste of the religious diversity of the capital.

Day 15 : Kathmandu

Today is free to explore Kathmandu. You might like to take a walk around the ancient Durbar square, with it's atmospheric temples and intricately carved buildings, and a hilltop 'monkey' temple complete with stunning views over the city.

Day 16 : International return flight

Today drive to the airport for your onwards flight. Your return flight will arrive the same day.