Elevate Your Spirit ~ A Journey Through the Himalayas:

Grounding Through Yoga, Exploring Nepali Culture & Expanding Self Awareness on the Trail

March 14 ~ 27, 2026

with Katie O’Connell & Karin Conn

SOLD OUT!

We are so excited to guide you on an amazing cultural journey and trek into the forests and mountains of the Annapurna Region of Nepal, where you will see glorious views, reside in sweet mountain village tea houses, practice yoga, and become part of an intimate community of hikers, seekers, and yogis who relish the chance to be immersed in Nature and among the Nepali people as we explore.

Our adventure begins in Kathmandu where we gather for two days and nights to ground, prepare for the trek with our guides, practice yoga, and explore the marvel of Thamel Bazaar, a hiker’s and shopper’s paradise where we can buy supplies for the trek and souvenirs to take home. There is an opportunity for us to visit Patan, a UNESCO World Heritage sight dubbed the “City of Artisans,” another fun place to shop, sightsee, and visit numerous temples, pagodas, and museums. After a couple of good sleeps in Kathmandu, we hop a short flight to the beautiful lakeside town of Pokara, where we enjoy a day and night to investigate, sightsee, and acclimate for one more night before our trek begins on day 4. In the morning we practice yoga, enjoy a yummy breakfast, and then our private vans whisk us to the starting point of our hike into the forest.

The Ghandruk Trek is a scenic journey through the Annapurna region of the Himalayas, beginning in Birethanti and ascending to Ghandruk, a beautiful Gurung village offering stunning views of Annapurna and Machhapuchhre. There is a lot to take in here, so we get to linger a bit, integrate the first day of elevation, practice yoga and breath work, enjoy the hospitality of our hosts, explore the village with its delightful museum and monastery, and then rest deeply before moving on.

Here’s our view! (photo by Karin Conn)

We trek on to Tadapani, a glorious oasis that overlooks some of the most breathtaking views of the Nepal’s Annapurna region of the Himalayas. Tadapani means “far water” in Nepali, and it is known as a tranquil place–a haven for hikers who come here to rest amid the waterfalls and rivers on their way to some distant peak. We could just stay right here. The people who live here and tend the tea houses and mountain farms are some of the sweetest people on the planet. Expect to feel embraced in Nature and held in the quiet wisdom and beauty of the Nepali villagers.

Karin took this next photo of Annapurna on her most recent trek to Tadapani, and we all agree this capture looks more like a painting than a real photograph! No touch ups, no color alteration… just pure raw majesty. What an astounding vision to wake up to!

THIS RETREAT IS NOW FULL. Please fill out our application if you would like to be on our waitlist: READY TO JOIN US? APPLY NOW!

OUR AMAZING RATES:

USD $5,200 per person, twin room sharing.

If you require a single room, add $750 to your investment.

From Tadapani, we ascend to Chhomrong, the gateway to Annapurna Base Camp. This little town requires an extra walk, but it’s worth every step. Like going back in time, we will see mountain villagers in their daily routines; there are no roads here–the only way in or out is to climb up or back down. With mountains in every direction, it is easy to understand why the villagers practice a religion called “Bon,” which means they worship Nature. How wonderful that Nature and God are synonymous. You will certainly feel that in your heart right here.

Our route continues down across the Modi Khola, a snow-fed perennial river flowing from the Annapurna region and down into the lush valleys below Ghandruk. We will get to cross the river via suspension bridge to Tolka and Pitam Deurali, where we spend our final nights in the wilderness. On our final morning we pass through terraced rice fields, down through rhododendron forests, and eventually out of the woods where our vans collect us and take us into Pokara for a night of well-deserved rest, or perhaps a night out in this lively mountain town.

After a leisurely morning of yoga, breakfast, and shopping in Pokhara, we hop a flight back to Kathmandu, where we tuck in for another night in Thamel to enjoy a group dinner, shop, and gather all of our bags for one last adventure!

Bhaktapur is one of the most magical towns we have ever visited. This gorgeous brick city pre-dates the 12th century, and is often referred to as the “City of Dance and Music,” but Bhaktapur is also known for its pottery, paper making, handicrafts, festivals, and dedication to Dattatreya, the name of a Hindu deity that represents all the powers of the triumvirate representation of God: Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. There is so much to explore inside the ancient brick walls of this amazing place, and we are so happy to conclude our journey with you here where you will enjoy a cultural tour, opportunities to shop, culinary delights, and two sleeps in an ancient monastery turned hotel. Such a colorful town deserves an entire gallery!

READY TO JOIN US? APPLY NOW!

DAY BY DAY ITINERARY

DAY	Highlights
Day 1: ARRIVE! 14 Mar 2026	Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) Transfer to Hotel and Trek Prep Overnight in Kathmandu: Boutique Hotel. Included Meals: Dinner
Day 2 15 Mar 2026	Free Day in Kathmandu & Trek Prep Overnight in Kathmandu. Included Meals: Breakfast
Day 3 16 Mar 2026	Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara – 25 minutes flight. Overnight in Pokhara: Boutique Hotel. Included Meals: Breakfast
Day 4 17 Mar 2026	Drive to Birethanti & Trek to Ghandruk (1,540m/5,052ft) – 1.5 hr. drive & 4 to 5 hr. (10km) trek. Overnight in Ghandruk Accommodation: Tea House. Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 5 18 Mar 2026	Free Day in Ghandruk Overnight in Ghandruk. Accommodation: Tea House. Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 6 19 Mar 2026	Trek from Ghandruk to Tadapani (2,600m/8,528ft) – 4 to 5 hrs. (6.5km) trek. Overnight in Tadapani. Accommodation: Tea House. Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 7 20 Mar 2026	Trek from Tadapani to Chhomrong (2,170m/7,118ft) – 6 to 7 hrs. (10 km) trek Overnight in Chomrong. Accommodation: Tea House. Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 8 21 Mar 2026	Trek from Chomrong to Tolka (or Landruk) descending (1,700m/5,577ft) 6 to 7 hrs (10 km) trek. Overnight in Tolka. Accommodation: Tea House. Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9 22 Mar 2026	Trek from Tolka to Pitam Deurali – 3 to 4 hours (5.5 km) trek. Overnight in Pitam Deurali. Accommodation: Tea House. Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 10 23 Mar 2026	Trek from Pitam Deurali to Phedi & Drive to Pokhara – 3 to 4 hrs (8 km) trek & 30 min. drive. Overnight in Pokhara. Accommodation: Boutique Hotel. Included Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 11 24 Mar 2026	Afternoon Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu – 25 min. Overnight in Kathmandu: Boutique Hotel. Included Meals: Breakfast
Day 12 25 Mar 2026	Drive to Bhaktapur.  Overnight in Bhaktapur. Accommodation: Boutique Hotel. Included Meals: Breakfast
Day 13 26 Mar 2026	Free Day in Bhaktapur. Overnight in Bhaktapur: Boutique Hotel. Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 14 27 Mar 2026	Final Morning, breakfast and drive to Airport. Included meals: Breakfast.

INVESTMENT: To keep our footprint small and allow for an intimate experience with lots of personalized attention, this trip is limited to 14 guests. In addition to Karin and Katie, we have two expert trek guides, and there is a porter per every two guests. Our incredible all-inclusive rates include stay in double occupancy tea houses and boutique hotels, domestic flights, transfers, cultural tours, expert Trekking Guides, all yoga and guidance by Karin and Katie, and most meals! AMAZING!!! Single rooms are limited and offered for an additional rate.

ACCOMMODATIONS: We will stay in a variety of boutique hotels when in towns, but while on the trail we reside in Nepali “tea houses.” While picturesque and comfortable, lodgings along trek routes are often rustic, but this is part of the authenticity and adventure! Tea houses are unheated, but warm blankets abound. Hot water showers and bathrooms are readily available so you can snuggle in each night after hiking. When in towns, we reside in lovely boutique hotels equipped with all the modern amenities you desire. We are excited to share all of these hand-picked places with you!

YOUR INVESTMENT

• OUR AMAZING RATES: USD $5,200 per person, twin room sharing.
• If you require a single room, add $750 to your investment.

 WHAT IS INCLUDED:

• The loving attention of your two retreat guides, Katie & Karin, who have curated this retreat to include some of the most special experiences!
• Group Zoom meetings before the retreat to help us organize and prepare.
• Complimentary Yoga w/ Katie to limber up in the week or two before the trip!
• Daily yoga, meditation, and pranayama with Katie & Karin, plus support before and during, and after the trek each day.
• Airport pick up service in a private vehicle Day 1 of our retreat and return to airport on the last day of our retreat.
• 3 nights deluxe accommodation in boutique hotel in Kathmandu w/ breakfast
• 2 nights deluxe accommodation in boutique hotel in Pokhara w/breakfast
• 2 nights deluxe accommodation in boutique hotel in Bhaktapur w/ breakfast
• Tea house accommodation each night during the trek: clean, simple, authentic
• Tea house meals as specified in itinerary. Typical tea house meals include a variety of local and Western dishes to satisfy your hunger. The most common local dish on the trek is dal bhat, a hearty meal of rice, lentil soup, and vegetables.
• Domestic flights (Kathmandu to Pokhara to Kathmandu) as per itinerary
• One hightly-experienced, English-speaking, government-licensed, trained in first-aid Trek Leader (Guide)
• Porter service to carry your main bag during the trek (2 trekkers per porter)
• All ground transportation by comfortable private vehicle (from Pokhara to Birethanti & Phedi to Pokhara; Kathmandu to Bhaktapur) as per the itinerary
• Trekking permits – Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) entry fee and TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System)
• Patan and Bhaktapur Sightseeing Tours
• Staff cost including food, accommodation, salary, flight, insurance, equipment etc.
• First Aid kit, Pulse Oximeter and essential medicines (Paracetamol, Diamox etc.) carried by the Trek Leader
• Down jacket and sleeping bag (to be returned after trek completion)
• All Local and Government taxes, administrative charges

 WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED:

• Extra night(s) accommodation in case of early arrival or late departure.
• Additional cost to upgrade hotel in Kathmandu or Pokhara
• Extra meals not identified in the aforementioned itinerary
• Nepal Visa Fee
• Evacuation Medical Insurance REQUIRED TO PARTICIPATE. We suggest clicking here to learn more to compare insurance plans: InsureMyTrip.Com and to look at a company many of our guests have used: Travel Guard Adventure Travel Insurance. EVACUATION insurance MUST include confirmation that helicopter evacuation is included in the policy.
• Travel / Trip insurance that covers the cost of your flights and full retreat cost is strongly suggested by your retreat leaders.
• International flights
• Excess baggage fees
• Personal expenses: wifi, laundry, bar bills, snacks, battery recharge, souvenirs, extra porter, etc.
• Personal trekking gear and equipment
• Tips for Trek Guides, your personal porter, tour guides, and drivers (approx. $250)
• Any unforeseen expenses due to circumstances beyond our control
• There are no refunds for missed flights, missed days due to late arrival, injury, early departure, meals you choose not to take with the group, etc.

SUGGESTED PACKING LIST FOR TREKKING IN NEPAL 

• Day pack (25-40L)
• Personal first aid kit/Medications
• Sunscreen/Zinc oxide
• Sunglasses/glasses (extra pair)
• Sunhat/Ball cap
• Sturdy Hiking Boots
• “Camp Shoes”
• “Shower Shoes” or flip flops
• Warm winter hat
• Down Jacket and Down Vest/Warm fleece
• Rain jacket or poncho/ Rain pants
• Fleece Buff/Neck Warmer
• Winter Gloves/Lightweight glove liners
• Long underwear bottoms (can be great to sleep in)
• Long underwear tops (lightweight and medium weight)
• Hiking socks (lightweight and medium weight) x2-3 each
• Lightweight hiking pants/shorts
• Lightweight Polypro Hiking shirt (x2/3)
• Phone, charger, battery operated charger
• Converter
• Water Bottle/Camelback
• Personal water filter system
• Thermos for carrying hot water on the trail
• trail snacks
• electrolytes
• headlamp and extra batteries (for reading at night in shared room spaces)
• crisp NEW US bills for exchange and credit card
• additional:  moleskin, bandages, shammy towel, ziplock bags
• short gaiters

READY TO JOIN US? APPLY NOW!

DRAGONFLY YOGA CANCELLATION & REFUND POLICY:

Cancellations made more than 120 days prior to retreat start date allow a return of registration payment minus initial deposit. Inside 120-90 days prior to retreat start date, 50 percent of registration, minus initial deposit, will be issued to the registrant. Cancellations made less than 90 days prior to retreat start date will result in no refund to the registrant, unless you can fill your space, in which case financial exchange will happen between said registrant and the replacement guest. Reservations are not transferable without the explicit approval of your hosts, due to potential medical issues and Visa requirements. Non-refundable deposit is NON-TRANSFERABLE to another registrant, and transfer guest is required to pay a new deposit.

In the event that a refund is required from your retreat leaders, participant will be refunded within 30 days of cancellation. Cancellation on day of departure or during the retreat will result in no refund. No refund for unused portions of retreat, including, but not limited to, missed meals, hotel nights, and sightseeing. Cancellation of program by retreat hosts results in full refund to the participant. Cancellation of program due to acts of war, weather/climate-related catastrophe, or any other Act of God will result in no refund to registrants, as these are out of our control and payments have already been rendered to companies and vendors well in advance. We strongly suggest that you purchase comprehensive travel insurance to protect your investment. Neither Katie O’Connell nor Karin Conn or their affiliates accepts liability for any travel cancellation penalty incurred by the purchase of a non-refundable airline ticket to the destination or return to the US, or need for emergency transport or health issue of any kind.

We look forward to sharing this adventure with you!

Once you apply and are accepted for this retreat, we will be in touch with lots of information regarding Visas, Travel Terms & Conditions, suggested flights and travel plan, Flight Itinerary Form, and so much more!

with love and many blessings,

Katie & Karin

❤️