Exploring Nepal
Posted By Maurizio Pittau —

About

This travel experience was organised by Avventure nel Mondo, a historic Italian travel network known for its group expeditions worldwide. The itinerary mixes discovery, local culture, and a healthy dose of unpredictability.

The “TUTTO NEPAL” journey by Avventure nel Mondo was a 16-day group adventure (19 April – 4 May 2025) that comprehensively explored Nepal’s rich cultural heritage, breathtaking natural landscapes, and warm local hospitality. Coordinator: Alessio Maragno. Tresurer: Maurizio Pittau. 

🧭 Itinerary Highlights

Days 1–5: Cultural Immersion in the Kathmandu Valley

The journey begins in Kathmandu, delving into Nepal’s spiritual and cultural heart. Travellers explore ancient cities like Bhaktapur, renowned for its medieval architecture, and visit sacred sites such as Pharping and Kirtipur. The experience includes interactions with local artisans and participation in traditional rituals, providing deep insights into Nepalese culture.

Days 6–10: Trekking in the Annapurna Region

The adventure continues with a trek through the Annapurna Conservation Area. Starting from Nayapul, the route passes through Ulleri and Ghorepani, culminating at the panoramic viewpoint of Poon Hill. Trekkers are rewarded with stunning views of snow-capped peaks and vibrant rhododendron forests. The trek offers a blend of physical challenge and cultural encounters with local communities.

Days 11–16: Return to Cultural Exploration

After the trek, the journey transitions back to cultural exploration. Visits to towns like Bandipur and Patan showcase Newari architecture and heritage. The itinerary includes significant religious sites such as Pashupatinath and Swayambhunath, reflecting on Nepal’s spiritual traditions. The trip concludes with shared experiences and memories of Nepal’s diverse landscapes and cultures.

Tutto Nepal

ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS

Day 1 (19/04/2025): Arrival in Nepal (Sharjah)

  • Depart from Ireland and arrive in Nepal.

Day 2 (20/04/2025): Kathmandu and Surroundings

  • Visit Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) and Durbar Square.
  • Transportation: Minibus.
  • Distance: 20 km (Full day).

Day 3 (21/04/2025): Kathmandu’s Sacred Sites

  • Explore Budhanilkantha, Gokarna Mahadev Temple, Boudhanath, and Pashupatinath (Hindu cremation site).
  • Transportation: Minibus.
  • Distance: 30 km (Full day).

Day 4 (22/04/2025): Spiritual and Historical Exploration

  • Visit Dakshinkali, Pharping Monastery, Chobar (Adhinath Temple), and Kirtipur.
  • Transportation: Minibus.
  • Distance: 25 km (Full day).

Day 5 (23/04/2025): Kathmandu to Pokhara

  • Fly to Pokhara and transfer to the hotel.
  • Kayaking, River Rafting and Meditation session at the Matepani Gumba Monastery
  • Transportation: Airplane and minibus.

Day 6 (24/04/2025): Trek to Ulleri

  • Drive to Nayapool (1,070m) and trek to Ulleri (1,960m).
  • Transportation: Minibus and trekking.
  • Distance: 40 km (1 hour by minibus).

Day 7 (25/04/2025): Ulleri to Poon Hill

  • Trek from Ulleri to Ghorepani (2,860m) and Poon Hill (3,210m).
  • Witness sunset or sunrise from Poon Hill.
  • Transportation: Trekking.

Day 8 (26/04/2025): Poon Hill to Ghandruk

  • Trek back to Ghandruk (1,940m).
  • Transportation: Trekking.

Day 9 (27/04/2025): Return to Pokhara

  • Trek from Ghandruk to Nayapool, followed by a visit to Tashi Palkhel (a Buddhist village and monastery).
  • Transportation: Trekking and minibus.
  • Distance: 50 km (1 hour 15 minutes by minibus).

Day 10 (28/04/2025): Pokhara to Bandipur

  • Enjoy a scenic drive to Bandipur.
  • Transportation: Minibus.
  • Duration: 4 hours.

Day 11 (29/04/2025): Bandipur to Bhaktapur

  • Journey to Bhaktapur, a medieval city known for its rich cultural heritage.
  • Transportation: Minibus.
  • Distance: 155 km (5 hours 45 minutes).

Day 12 (30/04/2025): Bhaktapur and Surroundings

  • Visit Changunarayan and Thimi Village.
  • Transportation: Minibus.
  • Distance: 25 km (Full day).

Day 13 (01/05/2025): Dhulikel and Namobuddha Monastery

  • Explore Dhulikel (Newari town) and Namobuddha Monastery.
  • Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay with monks.
  • Transportation: Minibus.
  • Distance: 30 km (Full day).

Day 14 (02/05/2025): Trek to Panauti and Patan

  • Trek from Namobuddha to Panauti and transfer to Patan.
  • Transportation: Trekking and minibus.
  • Distance: 40 km (Full day).

Day 15 (03/05/2025): Patan and Return to Kathmandu

  • Explore Patan’s artistic landmarks before heading back to Kathmandu.
  • Transportation: Minibus.
  • Distance: 10 km (30 minutes).

Day 16 (04/05/2025): Departure

  • Return.

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About the author

Maurizio Pittau is a travel blogger, storyteller, and tireless explorer. After organizing more than 60 independent trips across four continents, he recently began discovering the world through organized tours as well. Tutto Nepal was his second trip with Avventure nel Mondo, following Uganda Breve, where he served as treasurer, filmmaker, and blogger.

Based in Dublin, Maurizio has lived and worked in Morocco, Costa Rica, Albania, the United States, and Ireland, gaining extensive experience in international cooperation, marketing, and media. Between trekking across Icelandic glaciers and riding the Trans-Siberian Railway, he founded a radio station, a multicultural festival, and a hiking club—always with a camera in hand and a story to tell.

Find out more at www.mauriziopittau.it