Elevate Your Spirit ~ A Journey Through the Himalayas:

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

March 13 ~ 27, 2027

 w/ Katie O’Connell & Karin Conn

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 three 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.

All photos above by Katie O’Connell

After a few days to rest and acclimate in Kathmandu, we hop a short flight to the beautiful lakeside town of Pokara, and a private van drops us to the start of our Annapurna View trek. From Banthanti we ascend to the scenic village of Ghorepani where we rest on our first night. The next morning, a pre-dawn hike up to Poon Hill offers astounding views of Annapurna and the Dhaulagiri Ranges. 

We then trek on to Tadapani, a glorious oasis that overlooks some of the most breathtaking views of 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 (below) of Annapurna on her last 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!

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From Tadapani, we descend to Ghandruk. There is a lot to take in here, so we get to linger a bit, 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.

From Ghandruk, we hike up to the secluded village of Chomrong, 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 natives 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. Here we cross the river via suspension bridge to Tolka and Dhampus, where we spend our final nights in the wilderness.

On our final morning we pass through terraced rice fields and down through rhododendron forests that will make you believe you are inside a fairy tale!

Eventually we wander out of the woods and down a hillside through villages and farms where our van collects us and takes us into Pokhara for two days and nights of well-deserved rest, touring, shopping and dining in this lively lakeside town. Rent a boat and paddle around the lake or join a half-day excursion with the group before a morning flight to Kathmandu and short drive to Bhaktapur.

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, Thangka paintings, 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 a charming boutique hotel just inside the gates of this iconic Newari city. Such a colorful town deserves an entire gallery! Photos by Katie O’Connell

Photos by Katie O’Connell & Michael Ashmore

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2027 ITINERARY

DAY	Highlights
Day 1: ARRIVE! 13 March 2027	Arrive in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) Transfer to Hotel and Trek Prep Overnight in Kathmandu: Boutique Hotel. Included Meals: Dinner
Day 2 14 March 2027	Day in Kathmandu & Trek Prep Overnight in Kathmandu. Morning orientation. Group trip to the ancient city of Patan. Included Meals: Breakfast
Day 3 15 March 2027	Free Day in Kathmandu Overnight in Kathmandu.  Shopping, touring and packing day. Included meals: Breakfast
Day 4 16 March 2027	Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara, drive to trailhead, Trek to Ghorepani (2,874 m, 9,429 ft) Overnight in Ghorepani. Meals: All
Day 5 17 March 2027	Optional pre-dawn hike to Poon Hill for sunrise (3,210 m/10,531 ft). Trek from Ghorepani to Tadapani (2,600m/8,528ft) Included Meals: All
Day 6 18 March 2027	Trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk (1,940 m/6364 ft) – 3 to 4 hrs. Overnight in Ghandruk. Included Meals: All
All itinerary subject to adjustment, as needed
Day 7 19 March 2027	Trek from Ghandruk to Chomrong (2,170m/7,119 ft) – 5 to 6 hours trek. Overnight in Chomrong. Included meals: All
Day 8 20 March 2027	Morning Walk & Explore village of Chomrong. Overnight in Chomrong. Included Meals: All
Day 9 21 March 2027	Trek from Chomrong to Tolka descending (1,700m/5,577ft) 6 to 7 hrs (10 km) trek. Overnight in Tolka. Included Meals: All

Day 10 22 Mar 2027	Trek from Tolka to Dhampus – 5-6 hours trek (elevation 1,750 m/5,713 ft). Overnight in Dhampus. Included Meals: All
Day 11 23 Mar 2027	Trek from Dhampus to Phedi & Drive to Pokhara – 1 – 2 hrs trek & 30 min. drive. Overnight in Pokhara. Accommodation: Boutique Hotel. Included Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 12 24 Mar 2027	Free Day in Pokhara w/ option for ½ day tour Accomodation: Boutique Hotel. Included Meals: Breakfast
Day 13 25 Mar 2027	Fly to Kathmandu, Drive to Bhaktapur.  Overnight in Bhaktapur. Accommodation: Boutique Hotel. Included Meals: Breakfast
Day 14 26 Mar 2027	Morning guided tour and free afternoon in Bhaktapur. Overnight in Bhaktapur. Boutique Hotel. Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 15 27 Mar 2027	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 shared double occupancy rooms. 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 for 15 days and 14 nights include accommodation in 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 available (sometimes en suite, sometimes shared by multiple rooms) so you can relax and snuggle in each night after hiking. When in bigger 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: $5,300

• OUR AMAZING RATES: USD $5,300 per person, twin room sharing.
• If you require a single room, add $750 to your investment.
• RATES increase by $100 July 15th.

 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.
• 2 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 the 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 – two highly-experienced, English-speaking, government-licensed, trained in first-aid Trek Leaders
• Porter service to carry your main bag during the trek (2 trekkers per porter)
• All ground transportation by comfortable private vehicle from Pokhara to Banthanti & Phedi to Pokhara; Kathmandu airport 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 
• First Aid kit including essential medicines (Paracetamol, Diamox), Pulse Oximeter, and Satellite Phone carried by Trek Leader
• Down jacket and sleeping bag (to be returned after trek completion)

 WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED:

• Extra night(s) accommodation in case of early arrival or late departure.
• Extra meals not identified in the aforementioned itinerary
• Nepal Visa Fee (approximately $50)
• Evacuation Insurance REQUIRED TO PARTICIPATE. This mandatory insurance must include helicopter evacuation in the policy. This can be purchased up until the month before the retreat. More details available in our application.
• Travel / Trip insurance that covers the cost of your flights and full retreat cost, although not required, is strongly suggested by your retreat leaders. Some Travel/Trip insurance covers medical insurance, and others do not. Please check your Purchase within ten to fourteen days of making your deposit to insure the travel insurance you choose covers all of your expenditures, including deposit.
• Medical Insurance: Check your current policy to see if you are covered abroad.
• International flights
• Excess baggage fees
• Personal expenses: wifi, laundry, bar bills, snacks, battery recharge, souvenirs, extra porter, etc.
• Personal trekking gear and equipment purchased in Nepal
• Tips for Trek Guides & your personal porter (approx. $250); tips for cultural tour guides is at your discretion and humbly received.
• 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.

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. Please refer to our complete cancellation policy and insurance requirement in the application form for this trip.

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

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