Kathmandu in 15 Days for Friends - Remote Ganesh Himal ridges and elephant‑like Pabil/Pabil Peak views
In Collaboration with Mountain Delights Treks & Expedition. Updated on February 8, 2026.
Complete 15‑day Ganesh Himal camping trek with Kathmandu sightseeing, remote village homestays, high ridgeline passes and tented camps. Designed for active groups and friends who want an authentic, off‑the‑beaten‑path Himalayan experience with local culture, campfire evenings and sweeping mountain views.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Mountain Delights Treks & Expedition, inspired by the tour Ganesh Himal Trekking. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Remote Ganesh Himal ridges and elephant‑like Pabil/Pabil Peak views
- Camping under the stars with full camp crew and kitchen
- Homestay in Jyamrung (Sharabensi) — real village life
- Historic Kathmandu sightseeing (Swayambhu, Boudhanath, Durbar Square)
- Shing La high pass and varied altitude trekking (1,000–3,660 m)
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu, airport pick up, hotel check‑in and welcome briefing.
Arrival & Airport pick‑up (Tribhuvan International Airport)
Meet your Mountain Delights representative at Tribhuvan International Airport; transfer to your Thamel hotel. Driver will handle luggage and introductions to the trekking guide.
Tips from local experts:
- Carry a small daypack with passport, cash (USD/NRs) and essentials — your main duffel will go in the vehicle.
- Tell the driver to drop you at the hotel entrance (Thamel streets can be narrow) to avoid carrying heavy bags.
- Sim card/data: if you want local SIM, ask the rep at the airport for a quick stop — best to sort out connectivity before heading to the hotel.
Hotel check‑in & trek briefing (Thamel)
Quick rest and a 45–60 minute introduction with your lead guide: itinerary, gear reminder, and packing the provided duffels for porters.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm that your duffel has the trek label and is sealed — the porters will distinguish bags by labels.
- Try on the sleeping bag/down jacket provided by the company so you know the fit and can swap if needed.
- Charge camera/battery banks now; electricity can be limited once on trek — keep cables in a small organizer.
Welcome dinner and group meet (Thamel — relaxed, social)
Casual welcome meal to meet the whole group and staff; good opportunity to ask last questions and sample Nepali/vegetarian options.
Tips from local experts:
- Go for communal dishes (dal bhat, vegetable curry) to try things you’ll see on the trek — great conversation starter with new groupmates.
- Bring some small cash for shared tips to kitchen/guide (common practice) so it’s ready when you leave.
- If you want a lively spot with good group seating, request a long table in advance — Thamel restaurants handle groups well in high season.
Day 2
Sightseeing around Kathmandu — Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, Garden of Dreams and cultural orientation.
Morning chill at Garden of Dreams
Start gently after arrival day — a leafy colonial‑era garden for a relaxed coffee and quick orientation about Kathmandu culture and etiquette.
Tips from local experts:
- Good spot to test altitude: sit, sip tea and monitor how you feel after travel before more active sightseeing.
- There are clean restrooms and shaded seating — useful for those packing last small items.
- Grab bottled water here; keep several small bottles for the next few days on the trail.
Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) — panoramic Kathmandu views
Short visit to the stupa complex with panoramic views over the valley and a chance for photos and light walking.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear modest clothing; spinners and circumambulation etiquette apply — keep a respectful distance from worshippers.
- Expect some steps; for a friend group, move slowly and regroup at the base if anyone prefers to skip stairs.
- Carry small change for offerings or to buy prayer flags — a meaningful way to support local craft sellers.
Boudhanath Stupa & lunch nearby
Visit the large Tibetan stupa and surrounding cafes. Lunch at a nearby restaurant offering Tibetan/Nepali food — good for groups.
Tips from local experts:
- Try a communal Tibetan thukpa or momos (great fuel for the trek start); many cafés are group‑friendly.
- This area has many Tibetan handicraft shops — bargaining politely is part of the experience.
- If you need last‑minute trek gear (gaiters, gloves), small shops around Boudha often stock basics.
Sunset rooftop debrief & live music (Thamel)
Early evening rooftop for drinks/refreshments; a casual social spot to relax and swap expectations for the trek.
Tips from local experts:
- Opt for non‑alcoholic hot drinks if you want to hydrate and acclimatize well before the trek.
- Rooftop sunset photos are great — charge phones/cameras during the day and arrive a little early for best light.
- Keep plans light tonight — early bedtime recommended to prepare for long drive/trek tomorrow.
Day 3
Drive from Kathmandu to Satdobato; meet trekking crew, final packing and short acclimatisation walk.
Jeep/4WD transfer: Kathmandu → Satdobato
Scenic 4‑wheel drive out of the Kathmandu valley to Satdobato (road & mountain drive, luggage in jeep/jeep convoy).
Tips from local experts:
- Seat‑belt and motion‑sickness advice: sit in the front where possible; drivers are experienced on mountain roads.
- Keep valuables and a small daypack with water/snacks accessible — luggage will be loaded onto the jeep.
- Expect dust — bring a light scarf or buff and sunglasses for the drive; store electronics in sealed bags.
Meet crew & final trek briefing (Mountain Delights office)
Finalize equipment, meet cooks, porters and guide, divide shared gear, and load tents to porters.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask the guide to demonstrate the difference between personal and shared gear so there are no surprises on the trail.
- Confirm daily water/purification routine with the cook (tea breaks, hot drinks schedule).
- Get the guide’s local phone number and a meeting time for departures — signal may be patchy beyond Satdobato.
Short afternoon hike / camp set‑up at Satdobato
Short trial walk to loosen legs, set up the first tented camp and meet the kitchen team.
Tips from local experts:
- Use this short walk to test boot comfort and break in any problem hot‑spots on feet.
- Guide will run through daily camp routine — ask which items are carried by porters vs. what you’ll carry.
- Take sunset photos if the weather clears — first mountain glimpses often come on the drive out.
Camp dinner & group campfire
Hearty camp dinner prepared by trekking kitchen; social campfire evening to meet the team and group stories.
Tips from local experts:
- Try the hot milk/tea the kitchen provides at night — great for warming up and socialising.
- Keep a small tip envelope for the camp crew if you plan to tip later — it’s customary for good service.
- Pack a small headlamp or borrow one — evenings are dark and headlamps are useful around camp.
Day 4
Trek Satdobato → Bhalche (approx. climb to 1,950 m). Full day trekking with scenic ridge walks.
Breakfast & morning warm‑up
Early breakfast in camp, checklist before hitting the trail.
Tips from local experts:
- Eat a solid breakfast (porridge/eggs) — long uphill sections demand energy.
- Clip on sun protection (hat, sunscreen) before leaving camp — sun is strong on ridges.
- Keep gaiters and rain jacket handy; micro‑weather can change quickly in October.
Trek: Satdobato → Bhalche (scenic ridge ascent)
Main walking block of the day: ridge paths, mixed forest and meadow; steady ascent to Bhalche.
Tips from local experts:
- Break every 45–60 minutes for fluids and photos; quick group breaks keep pace manageable for everyone.
- Use trekking poles on steep sections to save knees — they also help for loose or rocky ground.
- Watch for local farmers and yaks near villages — greet them with a smile and avoid sudden movements.
Arrive Bhalche & set up camp
Camp arrival, time to relax, short village stroll and hot drinks.
Tips from local experts:
- Walk into the village slowly — locals appreciate greetings and curiosity about daily life.
- Keep footwear clean when visiting home compounds to be respectful — some families prefer removing shoes.
- Ask the cook about local tea blends — perfect chance to taste regional flavors and compare to Kathmandu.
Day 5
Trek Bhalche → Gonga (reach approximately 2,900 m). Longer uphill day with expansive views.
Morning trek to higher ridgeline
Steady ascent through alpine meadows; expect sweeping mountain views on clear days.
Tips from local experts:
- Layer clothing for temperature swings — mornings can be cool, midday warm, and windy on ridges.
- Stop for frequent sips of water rather than gulping to maintain steady hydration.
- If anyone feels light‑headed, tell the guide immediately — they’ll adjust pace or rest as needed.
Afternoon arrival & acclimatization
Arrive at Gonga campsite, unpack and take a gentle walk around camp for acclimatisation.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep activity light for the first hour after arrival to aid acclimatisation.
- Try some ginger or lemon tea — helps digestion and feels warming after elevation gain.
- Charge batteries while you still have a tent light source available — arrange charging with kitchen staff.
Day 6
Trek Gonga → Rupchet (reach roughly 3,660 m) — highest overnight on the route, spectacular morning light.
Day 7
Rupchet → Shing La Pass → Sertunga Kharka (descent to ~2,440 m) — pass crossing day with summit views.
Summit Shing La Pass (high pass morning)
Early push to crest the Shing La pass — long but rewarding. Take extra layers for the pass summit.
Tips from local experts:
- Start well before sunrise; temperatures drop and wind increases at the pass—bring a warm hat.
- Take many small photo breaks to enjoy the panorama and to pace yourself for the descent.
- Bring snacks high in salt and carbs for quick energy during the steep sections.
Descent to Sertunga Kharka & afternoon rest
Gentle descent to the kharka (pasture) where the team sets camp in a meadow area.
Tips from local experts:
- On descents, lengthen your poles and use the quads rather than letting knees take all impact.
- Look out for grazing animals and yak droppings on the trail — trail shoes that wash easily are useful.
- Try to arrive to camp with dry socks — change quickly to avoid chilling in the late afternoon.
Day 8
Sertunga Kharka → Shertung village (approx. 2,000 m). Descending into inhabited villages and more cultural contact.
Trail down into Shertung village
Scenic walk through mixed forests and terraced landscapes; closer contact with village life.
Tips from local experts:
- Carry small local currency for villagers selling snacks or tea along the route.
- If you enjoy photography, morning light in village terraced fields is excellent for portraits/landscapes.
- Be respectful: ask before photographing people, and an offering of sweets/candy is appreciated by children.
Evening village stroll & informal homestay visit
Short exploratory walk in Shertung and chance to meet local families and see daily life.
Tips from local experts:
- If a host invites you in, remove shoes before entering and follow their lead for seating/tea rituals.
- Ask about local crafts — small souvenirs help the local economy and make good group gifts.
- Enjoy simple local snacks with tea — an authentic way to build rapport with villagers.
Day 9
Shertung → Jharlang Phedi (approx. 1,450 m) — steady descent and warmer valley climate.
Morning downhill trek towards Jharlang Phedi
A more relaxed day with descending paths, terraced farms and richer vegetation.
Tips from local experts:
- You’ll notice temperature increase — wear lighter mid‑layers but keep a wind layer handy.
- Watch trail surfaces for switchbacks and loose stones on descents; poles help maintain balance.
- Enjoy local fruit stalls where available — fresh fruit is a welcome energy boost.
Camp arrival, laundry & relax
Settle into camp; small laundry may be possible (hand wash) and social time with crew.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a small clothesline clip — helpful for drying a few pieces before the next day.
- Ask the crew about hot‑water availability for a quick warm wash — refreshing after dusty trails.
- Charge devices where possible and conserve battery — phone signal becomes more available lower down.
Day 10
Jharlang → Kintang Phedi (~1,000 m). Gentle valley walking, more interaction with local hamlets.
Valley trek to Kintang Phedi
Enjoy lower altitude walking with local farm scenery and more open sunlit trails.
Tips from local experts:
- You’ll pass through small hamlets — carry small gifts (pens, stickers, sweets) if you want to share with kids.
- Sunscreen is important in open valley sections—reapply mid‑day.
- If anyone needs a lighter load, speak to the guide about shifting items to a porter for the last few days.
Evening: join guide for informal village tour
Short cultural walk around Kintang Phedi to see traditional houses and local life as the sun sets.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask about local crops and try to sample fresh produce — seasonal harvests change with altitude.
- Bring a small torch for evening walks — village paths are uneven and dimly lit after sunset.
- Respect privacy — ask before entering compounds and accept invitations politely.
Day 11
Kintang Phedi → Serabensi / Jyamrung approach (arrive around 700 m then stay overnight near Sharabensi area).
Downhill trek to Serabensi / Jyamrung approach
Final trekking approach into the Jyamrung / Sharabensi area with wider valley views and warmer climate.
Tips from local experts:
- Good day to air out boots and dry socks — take advantage of warmer lower altitudes.
- Practice basic Nepali phrases — locals appreciate attempts at hello/thank you and it leads to friendly exchanges.
- If you need to buy fresh snacks or batteries, small shops reappear closer to villages — bring small bills.
Afternoon rest — prepare for homestay
Light afternoon walk and briefing about homestay etiquette for the upcoming local stay night.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear modest clothing for homestay visits and be ready to remove shoes when invited into a home.
- Ask host families about local customs — sharing tea is a warm way to connect.
- Bring small tokens (tea, soap, school supplies) if you’d like to give a small gift to hosts.
Day 12
Jyamrung (Sharabensi) — stay in a local house / homestay and explore the village.
Homestay arrival & cultural welcome
Arrive at your host village, meet the family, and learn about local life; participate in daily chores if invited.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask your host about any dietary preferences — this is a great chance to taste home‑cooked Nepali dishes.
- Photography tip: ask before taking portraits; many locals are happy with a printed photo later as a gift.
- Respect sleeping arrangements — hosts may have specific areas for guests that are different from Western norms.
Village walk & local project visit
Light walk to local viewpoints and an optional visit to the company’s village development project (if available) — great cultural insight.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a notebook or small token to note what you learn about local projects — many trekkers take inspiration from these visits.
- If you want to support the project, ask your guide for recommendations on best practices to donate or help responsibly.
- Wear comfortable shoes; trails to viewpoints can be short but steep in places.
Homestay dinner & storytelling
Shared evening meal with hosts; music, stories and chance to swap travel tales around the hearth.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a few conversation starters — travel photos, music on your phone or simple games go down well with groups.
- Offer to help with clearing plates or washing — small gestures are appreciated and memorable.
- Prepare small thank‑you notes from the group (handwritten) — hosts value the personal touch.
Day 13
Walk from Jyamrung to Sukaura and drive back to Kathmandu across mountain roads.
Morning walk: Jyamrung → Sukaura (scenic final trail)
Short walk to the roadhead at Sukaura; say goodbye to the crew and local friends.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep your daypack light — the drive starts soon after arrival at Sukaura.
- Confirm luggage pickup arrangements with the team before leaving homestay.
- Buy any last small local crafts at village stalls — it's the last chance on this route.
Jeep transfer: Sukaura → Kathmandu
Long scenic drive back to Kathmandu; expect dusty roads and spectacular valley-to-valley views.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring motion‑sickness remedies if you are prone to it; the road is winding but the views are worth it.
- Keep cameras ready for village scenes and river valleys — the return drive has great spontaneous photo stops.
- Take earplugs or a light travel blanket if you plan to nap during the long transfer.
Check‑in at Kathmandu hotel & rest
Arrive in Kathmandu, settle into hotel, shower and rest after many days on trail.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask the hotel to arrange a hot shower quickly — after camping it’s the best morale booster.
- Check your kit list and set aside rental items (down jacket/sleeping bag) to return to the company.
- A short group stroll in Thamel is a good gentle first evening back in the city.
Day 14
‘Love Kathmandu’ day — relaxed city highlights (Patan/Lalitpur or Bhaktapur), last shopping and farewell evening with cultural dinner.
Patan Durbar Square (Lalitpur) — cultural strolling
Visit the historic Patan Durbar Square for artisans, carved temples and friendly squares — great for group wandering and photos.
Tips from local experts:
- Look out for traditional metal‑work shops and pick up small handicrafts as unique group gifts.
- Wear comfortable shoes — cobbled squares can be uneven but are gentle compared to mountain trails.
- Hire a local guide for an hour if you want deeper historical context; group rates are affordable.
Lunch & light shopping in Patan (traditional Newari cuisine)
Group lunch to sample Newari dishes and some last shopping in artisan lanes.
Tips from local experts:
- Try samaya baji or local Newari thali for a cultural meal; great chance to swap trekking memories over food.
- Carry smaller bills for purchases; vendors sometimes don’t have change for large notes.
- Confirm opening times for artisans you want to visit — many close early afternoons.
Return to Thamel for final shopping & rest
Free time to browse Thamel, buy any remaining items and rest before the farewell evening.
Tips from local experts:
- Haggle politely on souvenirs — a 10–20% negotiation is common for handcrafts.
- Ask shop owners for recommendations on local snack stands — cheap and tasty group snacks are abundant.
- Keep receipts for larger purchases if you plan tax‑free export (ask seller for details).
Farewell cultural dinner with music (Dwarika’s or similar)
Special final evening with a traditional Nepali meal and cultural performance — a memorable group send‑off.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve seating in advance for your group to secure the best table and performance view.
- Try a tasting of Newari sweets as a special desert — pairs well with light local tea.
- If someone prefers a quieter table, ask the restaurant for a corner spot away from the stage.
Day 15
Departure day — airport transfer and last goodbyes.
Hotel check‑out & transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport
Group transfer arranged to the airport; allow ample time for Kathmandu traffic and international check‑in.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep passport and boarding pass easily accessible in a secure travel pouch for smooth airport formalities.
- Leave at least 3 hours before international flight time in case of Kathmandu traffic delays.
- Confirm hotel settles any outstanding bills in local currency; keep small change for final tips to drivers/guides.
Farewell — end of Ganesh Himal Trekking program
Trip officially concludes on arrival at the airport; say goodbye to guides and staff and check in for flights.
Tips from local experts:
- Exchange contact details with your guide and fellow trekkers — many groups form lasting travel friendships.
- Leave a short group review or note for Mountain Delights staff — it helps local teams and supports future village projects.
- If you have time, pick up a last cup of Nepali tea at the airport cafe — a final taste of the valley.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 15 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | 4 |
| Restaurants | 6 |
| Total Activities | 34 |
| Total Places | 34 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Hotel, Meal, Neighborhood, Attraction, Nightlife, Experience, Outdoor, Break, Culture |
