Millennium Homestay Trek

This trip was exactly what I had envisioned. I think it is ideal for a reasonably fit traveller who wants to combine a trek with local experience. The trek was at lower altitude than the treks to Anapurna and Everest base camps. That meant that the trek was somewhat easier than at higher altitude, but was still enough to provide a challenge. In contrast to those treks, it was non-commercial. During the week of the trek we saw only local people. The lifestyle of the people we saw has changed little over time. Stays were in people's homes, where we shared the food that they cooked for their families. The people we met were universally friendly, although little English was spoken. They welcomed being photographed. This was very much a genuine experience where we were able to participate to a limited extent in the usual lives of the people we met. Ajay and Lesia, who operate the travel company were remarkably friendly and helpful. I had dinner with them on two occasions. The two guides Kumar and Chandra were both excellent and helpful. I have travelled to over 40 countries and this was definitely in the top few experiences. There are very few people who take this trek, which is unfortunate. Someone like me who enjoys being in places that other tourists are not will particularly enjoy the experience.

My itinerary: Pokhara for seven day six night Millennium trek, Chopper flight to Annapurna base camp from Pokhara, Guided tour of Kathmandu. First of all I would like to thank the team at Swotah travel: Ajay, Lesia, and my guides for the trek = Raj Kummar and Chandra, and my guide for Kathmandu = Bikash. You are kind and personable people. It is my pleasure to have met ya’ll. At the risk of sounding effusive this team is a collection of exemplary ambassadors; true emissary’s of Nepali culture and heritage. The Millennium trek takes a circuit through the Himalayan foothills that is off the beaten path. I believe that Raj kummar and Chandra know every: rock staircase, goat trail, and shortcut through a village there is to be had in a seven day ridge run; around the valley. Both men are upbeat and kind, so the days are full of laughter, surrounded by the ineffable views of the jungle and Annapurna mountain range. The family's at all the home stays where always kind and welcoming. These are rural areas, so do not expect resort stays. If you like cultural immersion and a good physical challenge then this trek is highly recommended. The guided tour of Kathmandu given by Bikash was most excellent. We saw four UNESCO world heritage sites. It was given in a private car with a driver. Bikash works for the National Art Museum and has a degree in art restoration. He is very knowledgeable about: Nepali history, art, and the religions of Nepal. He is a distinguished conversationalist and wealth of knowledge about his country. Although I may be biased, as this is my first trip to Nepal, and for what my opinion is worth to someone who does not know me. Swotah travel is highly recommended by me. They handled all my hotel bookings, tour bookings and helped me to prepare for the trek. All with personal attention to me and the minute details. They did what they said they would do, when they said it would be done.

Un guide - Kumar - 2 porteurs - Anil et Marc - très professionnels, attentifs, bienveillants, à l'écoute, pleins d'humour.......Une expérience que je peux recommander aux gens désireux d'être en contact avec la population népalaise ! l'accueil dans les familles fut très chaleureux......un bémol ? tous les jours les mêmes repas......Dommage.! ! !