Nepal
Join us to experience the stunning scenery and culture of Nepal
18 March - 27 March
2024
SOLD OUT
We are going global
Nepal. A Culture so deep in Spirituality, Yogic lineage and Hindu philosophy. Not to mention the Buddhist temples and the majestic mountains surrounded by so much awe and wonder. It's got all the ingredients before we even begin our first step.
This is a bucket list 10 day retreat walking the foothills of the Annapurnas. As we explore there will be daily yoga, meditation, breathwork and workshops moving between each tea house on our pilgrimage. This is a spiritual journey where we’ll be doing the deep inner work and healing on ourselves as well as connecting with the cultural traditions.
Tuuli Vikstedt has spent the past 14 years at her 'home away from home' being its Ambassador and has generously created this itinerary to support a retreat style immersion. She's also an amazing 'wing woman' to have on walking trails always guiding (often from the back) with gratitude and good humour.
Please soak in Tuuli's words below and feel into whether this is the retreat for you next year...
It is always love at first sight with Nepal. Her incredible natural beauty, warmth, sincerity and cheekiness will pull you down on your knees at first Namaste. It will feel like you’ve never walked, before you walk the foothills of the Himalaya.
Like you’ve never breathed, before you fill your lungs with the fresh mountain air.
Like you’ve never seen, before you witness the first rays of sun gently touching the twinkling snow caps.
Like you’ve never heard, before you hear the Nepali way of life around you - the laughter and excitement, temple bells, singing bowls, chanting, loud crows and hooning motorbikes - and then a complete silence.
Like you’ve never tasted, before you taste your warm lentil curry after a day’s trek.
This one will sell out fast so don't hesitate if you want to walk with us.
Meet Tina Bruce
Tina Bruce is an author, intuitive mentor, rebirthing breathwork therapist, yoga & meditation teacher and spinal energetics practitioner.
Tina's expertise in trauma-informed modalities along with her own experience of birth trauma, burnout, shingles and the development of an opioid addiction to manage the subsequent chronic pain condition motivates her to create compassionate and supportive spaces for her clients. When you receive her stories and teachings, it is often described as 'speaking directly to your soul'.
Tina is the co-founder of Soul Wander Retreats and facilitates programs locally and internationally with integrity and cultural connection. She understands very well the growth challenges and mountains people face daily which is why Soul Wander Retreats has evolved. Tina's purpose is to empower humans to trust their intuition so they can step more confidently on their soul path and reclaim their authentic selves to live a life they love.
Meet Tuuli Vikstedt
Tuuli’s heart resides in the beautiful Himalayan Nation of Nepal where she’s dedicated her life to supporting disadvantaged communities. The serenity of the snow capped mountains mixed with the beautiful hustle and bustle of the cities and people’s passionate hearts stole hers 14 years ago. Together with her organisation Wind of Change International and team in Nepal, Tuuli’s been running projects that support children’s education and provide shelter and safety to those who don’t have a home.
“We might not believe in saving the world but we can believe in saving one smile at a time.”
TRAVEL is a beautiful and exciting way to do exactly that - to share the smiles, love, light and laughter, get curious about other cultures and together share experiences to enrich your life and others. Join us in Nepal – a country whose magic and awe will have you on your knees at the first Namaste!
Meet Hayley O’Rourke
The Managing Director of Journeys by Design and your retreat coordinator, Hayley has been in the travel industry for 21 years. She is passionate about building long lasting & meaningful client relationships. Her dedication to her work ensures the travel experience she delivers leaves you with life long memories and those WOW moments that travel is all about.
Her passion for the wellness travel space began on a whim with an opportunity to experience COMO Shambhala in Bali, it was there that she realised the transformative power of retreats. In 2018, the universe aligned with an opportunity to connect with Tina and our first wellness retreat was designed.
Soul Wander Retreat
Nepal
Itinerary Overview
(subject to change)
Day 1 ~ 18th March 2024
Arrive to Kathmandu - you will be met on arrival at Kathmandu airport and transported to your guesthouse in Boudhanath, the beating Buddhist heart of Nepal and the home for one of the largest Buddhist Stupas in the world.
Two Nights Guesthouse accommodation - Twin Share - Hotel Lotus Gems (or similar)
Day 2 ~ 19th March 2024
Wake up to life in Nepal. Get amongst the devoted pilgrims, Buddhist monks, bells, bowls and burning incense to experience the fascinating life and beautiful hustle and bustle of Kathmandu.
Tonight brings a perfect opportunity to visit Pashupatinath on the banks of the sacred river Bagmati, the oldest and holiest Hindu temple in Kathmandu (estimated to have been built before 400BC). While only Hindus are allowed to enter this temple, simply (soul) wandering the grounds of this astonishing Shree and watching people interact will fill you up with wonder and awe. The ancient architecture and art, cheeky monkeys and Holy men, the rites of cremation and burning ghats are only a stroll away from our guesthouse.
Welcome Dinner back home in Boudhanath, on the rooftop of one of the many little restaurants that surround the magical stupa. B,D
Days 3-6 ~ 20th March - 23rd March 2024
Today after a slow breakfast we’ll start our (air-conditioned) journey towards the Annapurna’s by a comfortable minibus. On the way you get to enjoy the lush green hills and the rugged river banks and just admire the way locals live and travel. We’ll stop for lunch en route at the beautiful Riverside Spring Resort by the Trisuli river before reaching the town of Pokhara by late afternoon. The tranquil lakes and the earthy ambiance of Pokhara will welcome us before we jump on jeeps to start our Himalayan adventure above Pokhara, in the mountain village of Astam where the sunrise view over the Annapurna is simply amazing on a clear morning.
For the next 3 days we hike on the foothills of the breathtaking Himalayas. Wake up to yoga and the mountains and spend your days submerged in the local village life. Walking, talking, aweing, laughing and loving every weird and wonderful moment.
Major highlights of this trek include the expansive mountain views and the local village life experienced with the best local guides. Our first base is the Astam Eco Village where we start our trek through the local villages of Hyangjakot, Dhampus and Little Deurali and stay overnight in their comfortable teahouses. B,L,D
Small Group - Max 16 people
Yin Yoga & Meditation
Breathwork Energetics
Dharma Workshops & Mantra
Visit of Boudhanath, the Buddhist heart of Kathmadu
Explore Pashupatinath, the sacred grounds and rituals of ancient Hindu Temples on the Burning Ghats
Trekking the Foothills of the Himalayas with your experienced local guides
Discovering the beautiful town of Pokhara
Boat Tour and Trek to the World Peace Pagoda
An overnight visit to the Ancient Kingdom of Patan to explore the Durbar Square and sleep in a traditional Newari heritage home
Shopping/Spa expedition to Thamel
Day 7 ~ 24th March 2024
Today we land back in Pokhara - where the whole world of endorphins will join us. You will be enjoying the luxury of hot showers and comfortable beds! Tonight you are free to relax.
Two Nights accommodation - Hotel Temple Tree Resort & Spa (or similar) - Twin Share B,L
Day 8 - 25th March 2024
Today is the Holi Festival in Nepal. Holi is a lively and colourful celebration marking the arrival of spring. The festival is characterised by vibrant street celebrations where people joyfully throw coloured powders and water balloons at each other. Music, dance, and special foods contribute to the festive atmosphere.
Early Morning Boat Tour across the serene Phewa Lake and arguably our most challenging Trek to the World Peace Pagoda & Shiva Temple.
Your afternoon in Pokhara Lakeside is free for exploring, chilling, spa treatments, shopping or just feeling the awe with a fresh smoothie or a decent coffee. Temple Tree Resort already in itself is an oasis for relaxation with a tranquil pool and spa treatments available. B,D
Day 9 - 26th March 2024
Fly to Kathmandu - last night in the Ancient Kingdom of Patan. We’ll stay overnight in a traditional Newari heritage home, just a stone throw away from the famous Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site full of ancient Newari temples from the time of the small kingdoms. For the young at heart this evening will feel like being a superhero in a Marvel movie set..
We’ll enjoy our Farewell Dinner up on a rooftop overlooking the ancient temples, watching the evening settle in below us.
One Nights accommodation – Boutique Heritage Home Patan (or similar) - Twin Share B,D
Day 10 - 27th March 2024
On your last morning in Nepal you'll wake up surrounded by the beautiful Newari architecture of our 150-year old family owned guesthouse.
Today you have the opportunity to explore Thamel, the fun heart of Kathmandu with the best pre-flight shopping and dining. We will also have access to a Spa house should you want one last pampering before the Final Namaste and flight home. B
The finer details
This is an authentic cultural travel experience
• Our nights are staying in a Nepalese Guest Houses in the cities and Local teahouses and Eco Lodges on the hiking trail. Accommodation is Twin or Triple Share, clean and comfortable with basic amenities on the trail.
• Accommodation in the cities have private bathrooms. Accommodation whilst hiking with have shared toilet facilities and basic shower facilities.
• Sleeping arrangements will be in comfortable hotel rooms some with Western style beds in the cities. We have chosen smaller, locally owned properties to ensure an authentic cultural experience and to support local business owners. In the tea houses while on the trek the bedding will also be rustically comfortable. We do recommend you bring a sleeping bag insert and pillowcase for your journey, all other bedding is provided.
Your Retreat Package
Small group - Max 16 people
March 2024 - $6,598 Per person
**All Accommodation is TWIN SHARE in hotels - whilst on the trek the bedding may be up to triple share in the local Tea Houses.
**International Flights are NOT INCLUDED
INCLUSIONS:
Hosted by Retreat Leader, Tina Bruce
Hosted by Nepal Expert, Tuuli Vikstedt
Journeys by Design retreat coordinator on tour
Local Expert Hiking Guide
Yin Yoga
Meditation
Breathwork Energetics
Mantra
Dharma Workshops
Return airport transfers in Kathmandu
3 nights accommodation, Guest House Accommodation Kathmandu (Twin share with ensuite)
City Tour
Domestic flights with Buddha air - Pokhara/Kathmandu/Pokhara
Return airport transfers in Pokhara
4 Night Trekking package, including private guide & support staff, all meals, hiking & accommodation in local Tea Houses and Eco Lodges (whilst on the trek the bedding may be up to triple share in the local Tea Houses)
2 Nights accommodation, boutique Guest House Accommodation in Pokhara
Boat Tour and Trek to World Peace Pagoda
Breakfast Daily, 5 Lunches, 7 Dinners
NOT INCLUDED:
International Flights to & from Kathmandu
Airport taxes
Drinks & Snacks
Alcohol
Personal spending money
Travel Insurance
A $1500 NON REFUNDABLE deposit will secure your place on this wonderful retreat. Spaces are strictly limited and we expect places to fill up quickly.
Ask us about our payment plan options
***Minimum Age - 18 years***
Conditions apply.
TRAVEL INSURANCE IS COMPULSORY AND MUST BE PROVIDED TO JOURNEYS BY DESIGN WITHIN ONE WEEK OF THE DEPOSIT PAYMENT
Watch the Video
Video of Nepal Retreat October 2023. Created by Abiskar Tripathi
Testimonials
Hear the experiences from the Soul Wander Nepal Retreat, Oct 2023:
“Goddess’s Tina, Hayley and Tuuli. WOW. Our Nepal retreat was the most breathtaking and soul freeing adventure. There was magic that followed us every step of the way. We were welcomed and nurtured at the home stays and guest houses, and the food was delicious. Mmm, fried Gurum bread! Nepal and its mountains has a piece of my heart. this was the perfect retreat and most wonderful group of women to share it with.”
- Vanessa
“As someone who heals and teaches coping strategies to children it was my turn to be the student. I incorporate a lot of mindfulness into my work but have not practised a lot of yoga or breathwork myself, but this retreat was the perfect fit. The group of ten women was a perfect size and such a supportive, empowering group of women they are. Sisters for life!! Everyone was at a different stage in their healing journey, however the retreat was tailored to ensure everyone was benefitting. Thank you Tina! The travel was seamless and the ability to leave the mental load at home and not need to think about the travel logistics added to my ability to relax and focus on me. Thanks Hayley! Tuuli's knowledge of the country and connection with the locals was inspiring and added to the depth of the trip. Thanks Tuuli! Changed for life!!!!”
- Cam
“This retreat changed my life in all the very best ways. Not only was the experience itself incredible from the hiking, to the people, to the spiritual practices along the way but I have come home with a wealth of tools I can integrate into my everyday life. Thank you!”
- Michelle
“NEPAL Tina, Hayley & TuuliYOU have OPENED ME UP, an unforgettable experience. From the MAGIC of the Kathmandu, with its rich cultural of Buddhism and Hindu sights, to the TREKKING from Village to Village on the breathtaking ANNAPURNA Mountain, with it’s Gorgeous Sunrises and Sunsets. Every moment was filled with GIFTS. I know look at the world thru open eyes! Waking up with the Mountain Beauty, infused with Tina’s Energy Medicine, Tuuli’s Nepalese Wisdom and Hayley’s Back Of House Magic, what a WONDERFUL SOULFULNESS RESET! Words CANNOT describe jape Transformative this trip really has been. 10 Wise Women, holding each other FIRECLY! What a GIFT! I will be BACK NEPAL, with 3 boys and a husband in tow, my Soul feels the call to you introduce these Souls to YOU!”
- Topaz
“I adored your terrific trio:
Tuuli's deep love and connection with the Nepalese people made us all feel so very warmly welcome anywhere we went. And enabled us to meet all these joyful and caring characters, especially up in the mountains! It really made the Nepalese experience much deeper and more meaningful. The care put into the itinerary planning is not lost on me either. Two words: Respect and awe.
Combined with Hayley's meticulous planning and 'nothing is a problem' mentality, this trip was an absolute treat as a rare opportunity to detach from our normal lives and make near zero decisions ourselves - such a rare opportunity to be relished. Taking care of the 'back office' responsibilities might not be the sexiest job, but hugely appreciated. Two words: Appreciation and love.
And Tina - your incredible gift of teaching without preaching, holding space for vulnerability and allowing us to safely face our fears, being authentic and letting us heal in our own unique ways - was and is beyond special. And showing in real life that miracles DO happen when people gather to let their souls wander - or how the hell did you otherwise organise the timing of the dog, the mules and the sun on the mountain ; ) - was a powerful sign of the importance of this work. Two (actually three) words: Heart full and gratitude
Lastly, and this goes beyond planning and might be one of the miracles - the soul sistas I had the privilege to wander with - oh my days, what and eclectic mix on the outside, in unison on the soul level - love youse all.”
