We begin our journey in Kathmandu — a city where ancient culture, historic temples, and chaotic charm collide. Our base is a restored Rana-era palace tucked into a quiet courtyard. Together, we’ll explore the beautiful Patan Durbar Square, with its Newari temples and rich heritage, and enjoy a traditional Nepali dinner.
The next morning, we take a private charter flight to Phaplu — a remote region of eastern Nepal, ringed by pine forests and high Himalayan peaks. The hidden valleys here are considered sacred places of refuge, steeped in spiritual energy that’s said to stir a quiet awakening. Several important Tibetan monasteries are scattered across the landscape.
Our destination is a beautifully restored Sherpa lodge, once home to Sir Edmund Hillary. Nestled at 2,500 metres, this soulful retreat sits among pine trees and a rhododendron forest, with sweeping mountain views, log fires, a yoga and meditation shala, sauna and cold plunge pool, and forest paths right from the door. Over the week, this becomes our home.
Each day unfolds with a gentle rhythm. Mornings begin with Robby’s guided meditation, followed by Josie’s soulful yoga — weaving breath, movement, and grounded connection.
After breakfast in the garden, we head out to explore the mountains. We’ll hike to Chiwong Monastery, perched high on a ridge, where we share a simple lunch before joining the monks for their daily prayers and Buddhist teachings. Afterwards, we might be invited to play with a game of football with the monks, before walking or mountain biking home.
We’ll also visit Thupten Choeling, where nuns and monks live and study side by side, see the monastery school and Tibetan medicine hospital before walking on to Junbesi villahe for a home-cooked lunch with a Sherpa family. And there’s time to visit the Phaplu Mountain Bike Club — a non-profit project run by our hosts to support young people in Phaplu and neighbouring villages.
This retreat also offers some epic cold plunge moments and wild swims. We’ll hike to the peaceful village of Phera for a picnic lunch and an exhilarating dip in the river there. A slower day leads us through forest trails to Chyalsa, where we’re welcomed into a Tibetan family-run teahouse, followed by a drive to Solu Khola for another bracing plunge.
At the end of each day, we return to our quiet base with time to rest, read, or enjoy a sauna. You might book a massage, relax by the fire, and reflect on your day. Evenings are slow and cosy, with dinner by candlelight and a restorative yoga with Josie and a nidra session with Robby to ease you into a sound sleep.
A highlight of the week is our overnight adventure to Ratnange Ridge. We hike through a magical rhododendron forest to a remote mountain camp with jaw-dropping Himalayan views, where expedition tents await. Our chefs prepare a delicious meal, and as night falls, we gather around the fire beneath star-filled skies — sharing stories, tea, and stillness. At first light, we rise for a sunrise meditation on the ridge, watching the world’s highest mountains emerge from the dark. On clear mornings, Everest reveals herself in the distance. It’s a moment of quiet awe — of deep connection to nature, and to something far greater than ourselves.
We return from our camp adventure for one final day at our mountain home before flying back to Kathmandu. There, we spend a final afternoon soaking up the city’s spirit — visiting Boudha, where pilgrims circle the great white stupa beneath fluttering prayer flags, and wandering the winding lanes of Thamel for last cups of chai, and some shopping.
This retreat is a wellness journey like no other — a powerful blend of sacred landscapes, traditional mountain life, and immersive experiences designed to make you feel good inside and out. Are you ready to dive in?
