Flow Yoga Adventures: Nepal & Himalaya Journey
Introduction
An Immersive Himalayan Retreat
Nepal, nestled in the eastern Himalayas, is a land of breathtaking mountain vistas, vibrant culture, and spiritual heritage. Our journey begins in Kathmandu, the bustling capital city, where ancient temples, markets, and vibrant culture await. After exploring Kathmandu, a short flight takes us to Phaphlu, a picturesque village rich in tradition. It is here, amidst stunning mountain scenery, that The Happy House finds its home, offering a peaceful retreat far from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Surrounded by towering pine trees, vibrant rhododendron forests, and steeped in the history of ancient yak trading routes, this tranquil haven is a sanctuary for weary travelers and adventurous souls alike. Embark on daily excursions to explore the beautiful vistas and cultural treasures of the surrounding region, guided by knowledgeable locals who unveil the secrets of Nepal's incredible heritage.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Accommodation in a beautifully designed retreat in the Himalayas
Spa services including massage and sauna
Visits to nearby ancient Buddhist monasteries
Visit some of the most important historical sites in Kathmandu
Overnight trek/camping with stunning sunrise breakfast views over the Himalayas
An Immersive Himalayan Retreat
October 25- November 1, '27
What's Included
What's included
7 nights accommodation (2 in Kathmandu, 5 in the Himalayas)
All meals
All domestic transport including chartered airplane flights and private airport transfers
All activities and excursions
1-night camping trek
1 massage included, sauna, laundry
All permits, fees and taxes
Expert private guides
Plus all soft drinks & house wines at retreat in the Himalayas
What's not included
International airfare
Travel insurance
miscellaneous personal expenses & gratuities
Day 1 - Arrive Kathmandu and Settle In
Arrive in Kathmandu and Relax at Resort
Arrive Kathmandu
Once you arrive at Kathmandu airport, we will then transfer everyone to the Hotel, our base for 2 nights. Everyone will be assigned their room, and the afternoon is free time to relax. Those who prefer not to spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing may walk around and explore the property.
Gokarna Forest Resort & Spa
Gokarna Forest Resort offers a tranquil retreat in a historic forest reserve, just outside the city. Guests can enjoy a scenic golf course and indulge in diverse dining options. With its unique blend of luxury and nature, the resort features spacious accommodations and a wellness center for relaxation.
Welcome Dinner at Hotel
Welcome Dinner included in the hotel.
Day 2 - Guided Sightseeing Tour of Kathmandu Valley
Explore Patan Durbar Square and Boudhanath Stupa
Guided Sightseeing Tour of Kathmandu Valley
After breakfast, we drive to Patan Durbar Square. Patan, also known as ‘Lalitpur’, the city of artisans, lies 5 km southeast of Kathmandu, and is home to the valley’s finest craftsmen who have preserved such ancient art. The city retains much of the old charm with its narrow streets, brick houses, and multitude of well-preserved Hindu temples, Buddhist monasteries (Vihar’s), and monuments. Then, we drive to Boudhanath Stupa. Boudhanath Stupa, Asia, one of the largest Buddhist shrines. The stupa with a 100m (328 ft.) diameter and 40 m (130 ft.) height can be spotted from many viewpoints in Kathmandu. There are several Buddhist monasteries around, and the area is dominantly Tibetan and very much of the Barkhor area of Lhasa. After a lunch break in Boudhanath, we drive back to our hotel and prepare for our trip.
Gokarna Forest Resort and Spa
Stay at Gokarna Forest Resort and Spa, your base for 2 nights in Kathmandu.
Dinner at Hotel
Dinner included in the hotel.
Day 3 - Flight to Phaplu and Hike to Chiwong Monastery
Fly to Phaplu and Hike to Chiwong Monastery
Flight to Phaplu
Kathmandu Domestic Airport
35m
Phaplu Airport
We drive to the Kathmandu Domestic Airport and wait for our flight to Phaplu. The flight from Kathmandu to Phaplu is about 25 minutes. Flight is estimated between 9 am and 10 am if there are no weather issues or delays. Flight time is 35 minutes. *flight included in trip cost
Experience a unique stay at The Happy House, where stunning views of the Eastern Himalayas greet you. Located near the tranquil Dudhakunda Lake, this accommodation offers warm hospitality and traditional Nepalese architecture. Enjoy locally sourced meals and embark on guided treks to explore the breathtaking landscapes of the region.
Lunch at Happy House
We will have lunch at the Happy House.
Hike to Chiwong Monastery
After lunch, we will prepare to do a hike to the Chiwong Monastery. As you hike, marvel at the picturesque surroundings of small farms and a magnificent rhododendron forest. Upon arriving at the Chiwong Monastery, we may be able to sit among the monks for the late afternoon prayer. You have the option to either walk or take a vehicle transfer, which is also available upon well-advanced notice. Hiking from Happy to Chiwong Monastery is estimated 2.5hours to 3 hours one-way.
Dinner at Happy House
Dinner included in the hotel.
Day 4 - Drive to Thupten Choeling Monastery via Junbesi and Return
Explore Thupten Choeling Monastery and Junbesi Village
Drive to Thupten Choeling Monastery
This morning, we plan to leave Happy House before 9 am. We start with an early morning breakfast, and then drive to Thupten Choeling Monastery, which will take 1.5 hours.
Visit Thupten Choeling Monastery
Thupten Choeling Monastery is one of the most important monasteries of Tibetan Buddhism outside of Tibet. It was the seat of the late Trulshik Rinpoche, the 31st reincarnated master of the oldest Buddhist school of Tibet. Thupten Choeling once served as the largest monastery in Nepal, housing some 900 monks and nuns.
Walk to Junbesi Village
After Thupten Choeling Monastery, we walk down to the village of Junbesi for a glimpse into Sherpa history. The first Sherpa village in Nepal, Junbesi, is considered the cradle of Sherpa culture. In the 1600s, some Eastern Tibetans escaped the Mongol invasion, making their way to the other side of the Himalayas following sacred scrolls and eventually settling in Junbesi.
Lunch in Junbesi at a Local Homestay
Lunch in Junbesi at a local homestay.
Return by Car & Yoga offered at Happy House
Return to Phaplu by car.
Dinner at Happy House
Dinner included in the hotel.
Day 5 - Hike to Ratnange Ridge and Camping Night
Hike to Ratnange Ridge and Camp Under the Stars
Breakfast & Yoga at Happy House
A slow morning today. After breakfast, we take a moment to connect, breath and move in our yoga practice.
Lunch in Happy House
Lunch in Happy House.
Hike to Ratnange Ridge and Camping Night
After lunch, we will walk up to Ratnange ridge (10,500 ft.) for our camping night. We get there in time to watch the sunset over the Himalaya from our tented camp.
Traditional Mongolian Yurt and Expedition-Style Tents
A traditional Mongolian yurt will be put up for communal space and dining. Sleeping will be in expedition-style tents. A fully cooked dinner will be served. Option to walk, mountain bike, or drive to Phaplu.
Tented Camp and Meditation at Ratnange
Stay at Tented Camp at Ratnange.
Dinner at Tented Camp Site
Dinner included in the Tented Camp Site.
Day 6 - Walk to Chyalsa and Return to Happy House
Sunrise, Chyalsa Village, and Farewell Dinner
Sunrise and Breakfast on Ratnange Ridge
An early morning wake-up for sunrise over the Himalaya. Breakfast on Ratnange ridge with panoramic view of the Eastern Himalaya, including Mt. Everest.
Walk to Chyalsa Village
After breakfast at camp, we will walk south along the ridge towards the village of Chyalsa, a settlement formed by Tibetan refugees. The village once used to be a sprawling center for Tibetan arts and handicrafts, but today we only get a glimpse of what it once was and learn about the quiet resilience of the Tibetan people in exile.
Lunch at Traditional Tibetan Homestay in Chyalsa
Lunch will be at a traditional Tibetan homestay in Chyalsa.
Walk or Drive Back to Happy House
Departure
Chyalsa
Destination
Happy House
Walk or drive back to The Happy House for an afternoon of traditional Arts & Crafts (wood block printing & prayer bead making), followed by a farewell dinner.
Traditional Arts & Crafts at Happy House
Afternoon of traditional Arts & Crafts (wood block printing & prayer bead making) at Happy House.
Farewell Dinner at Happy House
Dinner included in the hotel.
Day 7 - Flight Back to Kathmandu and Thamel District
Return to Kathmandu and Explore Thamel
Breakfast at the Happy House
Breakfast at the Happy House.
Flight Back to Kathmandu
After breakfast at the Happy House, we will take the flight back to Kathmandu. Flight is estimated between 10 am and 11 am if there are no weather issues or delays. Flight time is 35 minutes. *flight included in trip cost
Transfer to Hotel in Thamel
Upon arrival at the Kathmandu Airport, we will transfer you to the hotel in the tourist district of Thamel.
Hotel Barahi Kathmandu
Experience the charm of Hotel Barahi Kathmandu, situated in the lively Thamel district, ideal for discovering local shops and eateries. Enjoy breathtaking Himalayan views from the rooftop terrace and unwind at the luxurious spa after your adventures. With its traditional Nepali decor and on-site dining, this hotel offers a unique blend of comfort and culture.
Free Time in Thamel
The remaining day is free on your own to explore and relax.
Farewell Dinner in Kathmandu
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu.
Day 8 - Departure
