Ker & Downey Mountain Lodge Trek

However, with the construction of four lodges in the Annapurna foothills above Pokhara, the legendary adventure company, Ker & Downey, has entirely changed the concept of Himalayan trekking. Only on foot can you really discover the entrancing personality of this mountainous kingdom, and now you can enjoy a warm bed and hot shower at the end of each day.

Each lodge is located some five hours' walk apart in an area of outstanding natural beauty within the Annapurna Conservation Area, and treks follow strict conservation guidelines. Trekking itineraries are entirely flexible and can include just one or a combination of mountain lodges. All treks allow time to visit local villages, photograph the scenery and absorb the spirit of the country, aided by the presence of the indomitable Ghurkhas who are the backbone of Ker & Downey's team, and keen to share their intimate understanding of Nepalese hill culture and tradition.

Sample Mountain Lodge Trek itinerary (Trek Grade 1)

Day 1: Depart London.  Days 2/3: Arrive Kathmandu & prepare for trek. Sightseeing of Kathmandu. Overnights Summit Hotel.  Day 4: Fly to Pokhara. Trek to Birethanti. Overnight Sanctuary Lodge.  Day 5/6: Trek to Ghandruk. Local exploration. Overnights Himalaya Lodge.  Day 7: Trek to Majgaun. Overnight Gurung Lodge.  Day 8: Trek to Dhampus. Overnight Basanta Lodge.  Day 9/10: Trek to Pokhara. Overnights Fishtail Lodge.  Days 11: Drive to Royal Chitwan National Park. Game viewing. Overnight Tiger Tops Jungle Lodge.  Day 12:  Game viewing on foot and elephant back.  Overnight Tiger Tops Tented Camp.  Day 13: Fly to Kathmandu. Overnight Summit Hotel.  Day 14: Fly to London.