Location
Duration
Activities
Accomodation
Meals
Group Size
Best Time
KATHMANDU, CHITWAN, LUMBINI, POKHARA & BANDIPUR
Program Itinerary:
Day 1 |
Arrival in Kathmandu
Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, you will be met by our courteous representatives who will welcome you with Khada and assist you to your hotel. Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is a vibrant blend of ancient traditions and modern developments. Take this day to relax and unwind from your journey, allowing yourself to acclimatize to the new environment and time zone.
Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu
Day 2 |
Sightseeing of Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Stupa & Patan Durbar Square.
After breakfast at the hotel, you will commence your exploration of Kathmandu’s cultural riches. The morning will be dedicated to visiting Kathmandu Durbar Square, including Hanuman Dhoka, Parvati and Mahadev temple, Kumari Palace, Taleju temple, and more. Kathmandu Durbar Square, situated in the heart of Kathmandu, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning architecture, palaces, temples, and courtyards. It was once the royal palace of the Malla and Shah kings of Nepal. The square is a bustling hub of activity, with locals and tourists alike wandering amidst the intricately carved wooden buildings, ancient temples, and statues. It’s a vibrant showcase of Nepalese art, culture, and history.
After that continue with the exploration to Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, is one of Nepal’s oldest and most significant prehistoric Buddhist stupas. Located on a hillock two miles west of Kathmandu City, this world-renowned Buddhist chaitya was built over two thousand years ago. The hill of Swayambhunath is lush with evergreen trees bearing colorful, fragrant blossoms, and it contains various rocks and metal mines. The hill is lush with evergreen trees and vibrant blossoms, adding to its serene ambiance.
Swayambhunath attracts pilgrims, tourists, and morning walkers
alike, offering a mix of spiritual and natural beauty.
Lastly, you will visit to Patan Durbar Square, located in the city of Patan (also known as Lalitpur), is another UNESCO World Heritage Site It features a rich collection of temples, palaces, statues, and courtyards dating back to the medieval period. The square is renowned for its fine Newari architecture, with intricately carved wooden windows, doors, and struts adorning many of the buildings. Renowned for its intricate Newar architecture, the square features beautifully carved wooden windows, doors, and struts, as well as an array of stunning temples, statues, and shrines.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 3 |
Transfer to Chitwan. [Approx. 181 KM /5-6 hours’ drive]
After breakfast, you will depart Kathmandu and drive to Chitwan, a journey that takes approximately 5-6 hours. Upon arrival in Chitwan, you will check into your hotel and have a delicious lunch &some time to rest and freshen up.
In the afternoon, you will begin your jungle activities. You have the opportunity to visit a local village and learn about the traditional lifestyle of the Tharu people.In the evening, you will attend a cultural performance featuring traditional Tharu music and dance.
Tharu Cultural Dance
Guests will able to enjoy the local Tharus from the village showcasing their traditional Tharu stick dance. The dance is an age-old tradition of the Tharus and is usually performed to appease the gods during religious festivals.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Chitwan.
Day 4 |
Full Day Engage in Various Jungle Activities
After breakfast, you will continue your jungle adventure with a full day of activities. You will go on a canoe ride down the Rapti River, where you can observe various species of birds, crocodiles, and other
wildlife. You will also have the opportunity to go on a jeep safari to explore the jungle and see animals such as one-horned rhinoceroses, Bengal tigers, and sloth bears.
Canoe Safari: A canoe ride is an excellent way to enjoy the unique eco system around the rivers and floodplains. Mugger crocodiles and Gharials basking on banks, storks, ducks, kingfishers along with otters, turtles and if lucky, even a fishing cat, are some of the creatures to watch out for. The comfortable wooden oar boats glide noiselessly, maneuvered by expert oarsmen while naturalists explain the world around the water. The boats are equipped with life jackets and the boatmen are expert swimmers who also act as life guards.
Bird Watching: Chitwan is rightly considered a birdwatchers’ paradise. Exotic birds such as the highly endangered Bengal florican and the glorious paradise flycatcher, as well as a range of colorful sunbirds, kingfishers and jungle fowl, call this forest their home.
Jeep Safari/Safari Drives: Safari drives are conducted by expert naturalists in specially designed 4X4 vehicles with theatre style seating. Along with the thrill of tiger tracking, is a memorable stop for a picnic breakfast. The dense jungles of Chitwan have large stretches of Sal with a closed canopy. A safari drive through these patches, with trees towering above and reams of sunlight breaking through the thick canopy is an enchanting experience. Seated in a specially designed safari vehicle, guests drive around the jungle, accompanied by a trained naturalist and an experienced tracker from the local community. The one horned Rhinoceros is the star of Chitwan and are usually spotted in open woods and grasslands. Along with mammals, the forest has 56 species of reptiles and amphibians, the most commonly spotted ones being the monitor lizards and pythons.
In the evening, you will enjoy specialty dinner and enjoy at your hotel for the night.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Chitwan.
Day 5 |
Drive to Lumbini. [Approx. 181 KM /6-7 hours’ drive] Half-day sightseeing tour in Lumbini.
After breakfast, you will start your drive to Lumbini, which is approx. 6-7 hour’s drive from Chitwan
Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and take some time to relax and freshen up. Then after some leisure time, start your exploration, you’ll proceed to visit the renowned Maya Devi Temple, the sacred site marking the birthplace of Lord Buddha. This historic temple, with its tranquil atmosphere, holds great significance for Buddhists worldwide. Inside, you’ll find the Marker Stone, believed to pinpoint the exact spot where Buddha was born, as well as ancient ruins and a sacred pond where Maya Devi is said to have bathed before giving birth.
Next, visit the Ashoka Pillar, a historical monument erected by Emperor Ashoka in 249 BCE. This pillar stands as a testament to Ashoka’s dedication to spreading Buddhism across his empire. Carved with inscriptions in Brahmi script, it marks Lumbini as Buddha’s birthplace. It’s an inspiring reminder of the deep-rooted legacy of Buddhism in the region.
Overnight at a hotel in Lumbini
Day 6 |
Transfer to Pokhara. [Approx. 200 KM / 6-7 hours’ drive]
The journey from Lumbini to Pokhara is a scenic drive that covers approximately 200 kilometers and typically takes around 6-7 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic. Start your drive early in the morning from Lumbini to make the most of the day. Upon arrival in Pokhara, check into your hotel and take some time to rest and freshen up.
In the late afternoon or early evening, head to the famous Lakeside area of Pokhara. This vibrant area is known for its picturesque views of Phewa Lake, bustling markets, and a variety of cafes and restaurants. Spend your time strolling along the lakeside, enjoying the serene atmosphere.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Pokhara.
Day 7 |
Sunrise excursion to Sarangkot. Visit Bindabasini, Devis Fall, Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave & World Peace Pagoda. Boating at Phewa Lake.
Rise early to experience the breathtaking sunrise at Sarangkot (subject to weather condition), a popular viewpoint offering stunning vistas of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. The sight of the sun illuminating the snow-capped peaks is a magical experience, and the tranquility of the early morning makes it even more special.
Begin your sightseeing after trip with a visit to Bindabasini Temple, an important Hindu shrine dedicated to the goddess Durga. Nestled atop a hill, this temple offers a peaceful atmosphere and a chance to witness local worshippers in prayer.
After Breakfast, you will visit to Devi’s Fall, a remarkable waterfall that descends into an underground tunnel. Named in memory of a Swiss tourist who tragically drowned here, this natural marvel is truly captivating.
Just across from Devi’s Fall lies the Gupeshwor Mahadev Cave, a sacred site with a shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. The cave is particularly unique for its underground waterfall, which serves as the outlet for Devi’s Fall.
Lastly, you will visit World Peace Pagoda which is the spectacular symbol of peace and is the 71st peace pagoda in the world standing 115 feet tall. Visitors need to climb a flight of stairs to reach the top of the striking monument. There are two tiers to the structure with separate passages to circumambulate.
Late afternoon or in the evening, we’ll enjoy a peaceful and scenic boat ride on Phewa Lake, the second-largest lake in Nepal, with the stunning Annapurna Mountain range as a backdrop.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Pokhara.
Day 8 |
Transfer to Bandipur [77km /Approx. 2-3 hrs. drive].
After breakfast, bid farewell to Pokhara as you embark on a journey to Bandipur, a charming hilltop town renowned for its well-preserved Newari architecture and panoramic views of the Himalayas. En route, you’ll pass through picturesque landscapes and winding mountain roads, offering glimpses of rural life in Nepal.
Upon arrival in Bandipur, check into your accommodation and immerse yourself in the timeless ambiance of this historic town. Spend the day exploring Bandipur’s quaint streets, visiting local temples, and admiring the traditional architecture. Don’t miss the opportunity to hike to the nearby viewpoints for stunning panoramic vistas of the surrounding hills and mountains.
Overnight at a hotel in Bandipur
Day 9 |
Drive back to Kathmandu [145km/Approx. 4-5 hrs drive].
After breakfast, we’ll drive back to Kathmandu, which takes around 4-5 hours. We’ll pass through scenic landscapes and small towns on the way.
Upon reaching Kathmandu, we’ll check into our hotel and have some leisure time to explore the city on our own.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 10 |
Sightseeing of Pashupatinath Temple, Bouddhanath Stupa & Bhaktapur Durbar Square.
After breakfast, today, we will start our tour with a visit to Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites in Nepal. Located on the banks of the Bagmati River, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its beautiful architecture and stunning surroundings.
Next, we will visit Bouddhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, we will explore the beautiful surroundings and observe the daily rituals and traditions of the local Buddhist community.
Finally explore the narrow alleys of Bhaktapur Durbar Square, where you can admire the intricately carved wooden structures and traditional Newari craftsmanship. This area is like an open-air museum, showcasing fascinating palaces, courtyards, royal baths, sculptures, pagodas, Shikhara-style temples, and a Buddhist monastery, all highlighting the unique architecture. In fact, this is one of the most stunning Durbar squares you will visit during your Nepal tour.
Following this, you’ll embark on a scenic drive during your visit, you will see the 55-Window Palace, Golden Gate, Nyatapola Temple, and other significant cultural landmarks in the area.
Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 11|
Final Departure
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight, concluding your unforgettable journey through the cultural and natural wonders of Nepal.
[Note: This program is given as an indication according to the indications known to date. It may be subject to changes on site due to local data. These changes will always be made in the best possible way, in the spirit of the original program.]
**END OF SERVICES**
***HAPPY JOURNEY***
The Kathmandu Valley’s prosperity is deeply rooted in its central position between India and Tibet. This factor has long contributed to its wealth and cultural richness. The valley’s fertile basin and mild climate have made it an ideal region for agriculture, allowing the land to flourish under the care of its inhabitants. The Newar people are known for their artistry and craftsmanship and have passed down their skills through generations. They are leaving a lasting legacy in the architectural wonders of Patan and Bhaktapur.
Our nine-day trek offers a comprehensive exploration of this culturally and naturally rich region. We will journey through picturesque ridges and charming villages to the north and east of Kathmandu. From Nagarkot and Dhulikhel, we’ll enjoy expansive views of the Himalayan range, spanning from Langtang to Everest. The trek includes detailed visits to important sacred sites, including the Boudhanath Stupa, the historic town of Bhaktapur, and the artistic treasures of Patan. Along the way, we’ll traverse through ridges, terraced fields, and lush pine forests, engaging ourselves in both the natural beauty and the rich cultural heritage of the Kathmandu Valley.
We start our day with a vehicle ride to Budhanilkantha, where you can see the famous Vishnu statue resting on a bed of serpents. The name “Budhanilkantha” is derived from the ancient Newari language, where “Budha” signifies “old,” “Nila” translates to “blue,” and “Kantha” means “throat.” This historic temple is filled with history, spirituality, and beautiful architecture. Also called the “Sleeping Vishnu” or “Jalakshetra,” it reflects the deep respect and devotion that characterize Nepal’s heritage. After visiting Budhanilkantha, we will hike to the entrance of Shivapuri National Park. We continue along the park trail, which winds through the forest and ascends in switchbacks to the foot of the Nagi Gompa nunnery.
The next destination is Boudhanath, which has one of Nepal’s biggest spherical stupas. The town is built around this massive mandala. Buddhists come here in the evenings from all over the nation to perform mantra recitations and circumambulations. The act of walking around a stupa is known as a ‘Kora’ in Tibetan and Sherpa culture. At Boudhanath, you’ll meet a smiling and comforting crowd consisting of Sherpas, Tamang, exiled Tibetans, and Bhutanese, all connected by their Tibetan heritage. After exploring the area, check-in at a nearby hotel close to the stupa. You can also visit the Buddhist monasteries of the Gelugpa (yellow hat) school, the Nyingmapa (school of the ancients), and the Kagyupa. We will spend the night at the Rokpa Guest House near the stupa. The hike takes approximately 5 to 6 hours.
We start our day with a vehicle ride to Budhanilkantha, where you can see the famous Vishnu statue resting on a bed of serpents. The name “Budhanilkantha” is derived from the ancient Newari language, where “Budha” signifies “old,” “Nila” translates to “blue,” and “Kantha” means “throat.” This historic temple is filled with history, spirituality, and beautiful architecture. Also called the “Sleeping Vishnu” or “Jalakshetra,” it reflects the deep respect and devotion that characterize Nepal’s heritage. After visiting Budhanilkantha, we will hike to the entrance of Shivapuri National Park. We continue along the park trail, which winds through the forest and ascends in switchbacks to the foot of the Nagi Gompa nunnery.
The next destination is Boudhanath, which has one of Nepal’s biggest spherical stupas. The town is built around this massive mandala. Buddhists come here in the evenings from all over the nation to perform mantra recitations and circumambulations. The act of walking around a stupa is known as a ‘Kora’ in Tibetan and Sherpa culture. At Boudhanath, you’ll meet a smiling and comforting crowd consisting of Sherpas, Tamang, exiled Tibetans, and Bhutanese, all connected by their Tibetan heritage. After exploring the area, check-in at a nearby hotel close to the stupa. You can also visit the Buddhist monasteries of the Gelugpa (yellow hat) school, the Nyingmapa (school of the ancients), and the Kagyupa. We will spend the night at the Rokpa Guest House near the stupa. The hike takes approximately 5 to 6 hours.
We start our day with a vehicle ride to Budhanilkantha, where you can see the famous Vishnu statue resting on a bed of serpents. The name “Budhanilkantha” is derived from the ancient Newari language, where “Budha” signifies “old,” “Nila” translates to “blue,” and “Kantha” means “throat.” This historic temple is filled with history, spirituality, and beautiful architecture. Also called the “Sleeping Vishnu” or “Jalakshetra,” it reflects the deep respect and devotion that characterize Nepal’s heritage. After visiting Budhanilkantha, we will hike to the entrance of Shivapuri National Park. We continue along the park trail, which winds through the forest and ascends in switchbacks to the foot of the Nagi Gompa nunnery.
The next destination is Boudhanath, which has one of Nepal’s biggest spherical stupas. The town is built around this massive mandala. Buddhists come here in the evenings from all over the nation to perform mantra recitations and circumambulations. The act of walking around a stupa is known as a ‘Kora’ in Tibetan and Sherpa culture. At Boudhanath, you’ll meet a smiling and comforting crowd consisting of Sherpas, Tamang, exiled Tibetans, and Bhutanese, all connected by their Tibetan heritage. After exploring the area, check-in at a nearby hotel close to the stupa. You can also visit the Buddhist monasteries of the Gelugpa (yellow hat) school, the Nyingmapa (school of the ancients), and the Kagyupa. We will spend the night at the Rokpa Guest House near the stupa. The hike takes approximately 5 to 6 hours.
We start our day with a vehicle ride to Budhanilkantha, where you can see the famous Vishnu statue resting on a bed of serpents. The name “Budhanilkantha” is derived from the ancient Newari language, where “Budha” signifies “old,” “Nila” translates to “blue,” and “Kantha” means “throat.” This historic temple is filled with history, spirituality, and beautiful architecture. Also called the “Sleeping Vishnu” or “Jalakshetra,” it reflects the deep respect and devotion that characterize Nepal’s heritage. After visiting Budhanilkantha, we will hike to the entrance of Shivapuri National Park. We continue along the park trail, which winds through the forest and ascends in switchbacks to the foot of the Nagi Gompa nunnery.
The next destination is Boudhanath, which has one of Nepal’s biggest spherical stupas. The town is built around this massive mandala. Buddhists come here in the evenings from all over the nation to perform mantra recitations and circumambulations. The act of walking around a stupa is known as a ‘Kora’ in Tibetan and Sherpa culture. At Boudhanath, you’ll meet a smiling and comforting crowd consisting of Sherpas, Tamang, exiled Tibetans, and Bhutanese, all connected by their Tibetan heritage. After exploring the area, check-in at a nearby hotel close to the stupa. You can also visit the Buddhist monasteries of the Gelugpa (yellow hat) school, the Nyingmapa (school of the ancients), and the Kagyupa. We will spend the night at the Rokpa Guest House near the stupa. The hike takes approximately 5 to 6 hours.
We start our day with a vehicle ride to Budhanilkantha, where you can see the famous Vishnu statue resting on a bed of serpents. The name “Budhanilkantha” is derived from the ancient Newari language, where “Budha” signifies “old,” “Nila” translates to “blue,” and “Kantha” means “throat.” This historic temple is filled with history, spirituality, and beautiful architecture. Also called the “Sleeping Vishnu” or “Jalakshetra,” it reflects the deep respect and devotion that characterize Nepal’s heritage. After visiting Budhanilkantha, we will hike to the entrance of Shivapuri National Park. We continue along the park trail, which winds through the forest and ascends in switchbacks to the foot of the Nagi Gompa nunnery.
The next destination is Boudhanath, which has one of Nepal’s biggest spherical stupas. The town is built around this massive mandala. Buddhists come here in the evenings from all over the nation to perform mantra recitations and circumambulations. The act of walking around a stupa is known as a ‘Kora’ in Tibetan and Sherpa culture. At Boudhanath, you’ll meet a smiling and comforting crowd consisting of Sherpas, Tamang, exiled Tibetans, and Bhutanese, all connected by their Tibetan heritage. After exploring the area, check-in at a nearby hotel close to the stupa. You can also visit the Buddhist monasteries of the Gelugpa (yellow hat) school, the Nyingmapa (school of the ancients), and the Kagyupa. We will spend the night at the Rokpa Guest House near the stupa. The hike takes approximately 5 to 6 hours.
We start our day with a vehicle ride to Budhanilkantha, where you can see the famous Vishnu statue resting on a bed of serpents. The name “Budhanilkantha” is derived from the ancient Newari language, where “Budha” signifies “old,” “Nila” translates to “blue,” and “Kantha” means “throat.” This historic temple is filled with history, spirituality, and beautiful architecture. Also called the “Sleeping Vishnu” or “Jalakshetra,” it reflects the deep respect and devotion that characterize Nepal’s heritage. After visiting Budhanilkantha, we will hike to the entrance of Shivapuri National Park. We continue along the park trail, which winds through the forest and ascends in switchbacks to the foot of the Nagi Gompa nunnery.
The next destination is Boudhanath, which has one of Nepal’s biggest spherical stupas. The town is built around this massive mandala. Buddhists come here in the evenings from all over the nation to perform mantra recitations and circumambulations. The act of walking around a stupa is known as a ‘Kora’ in Tibetan and Sherpa culture. At Boudhanath, you’ll meet a smiling and comforting crowd consisting of Sherpas, Tamang, exiled Tibetans, and Bhutanese, all connected by their Tibetan heritage. After exploring the area, check-in at a nearby hotel close to the stupa. You can also visit the Buddhist monasteries of the Gelugpa (yellow hat) school, the Nyingmapa (school of the ancients), and the Kagyupa. We will spend the night at the Rokpa Guest House near the stupa. The hike takes approximately 5 to 6 hours.
We start our day with a vehicle ride to Budhanilkantha, where you can see the famous Vishnu statue resting on a bed of serpents. The name “Budhanilkantha” is derived from the ancient Newari language, where “Budha” signifies “old,” “Nila” translates to “blue,” and “Kantha” means “throat.” This historic temple is filled with history, spirituality, and beautiful architecture. Also called the “Sleeping Vishnu” or “Jalakshetra,” it reflects the deep respect and devotion that characterize Nepal’s heritage. After visiting Budhanilkantha, we will hike to the entrance of Shivapuri National Park. We continue along the park trail, which winds through the forest and ascends in switchbacks to the foot of the Nagi Gompa nunnery.
The next destination is Boudhanath, which has one of Nepal’s biggest spherical stupas. The town is built around this massive mandala. Buddhists come here in the evenings from all over the nation to perform mantra recitations and circumambulations. The act of walking around a stupa is known as a ‘Kora’ in Tibetan and Sherpa culture. At Boudhanath, you’ll meet a smiling and comforting crowd consisting of Sherpas, Tamang, exiled Tibetans, and Bhutanese, all connected by their Tibetan heritage. After exploring the area, check-in at a nearby hotel close to the stupa. You can also visit the Buddhist monasteries of the Gelugpa (yellow hat) school, the Nyingmapa (school of the ancients), and the Kagyupa. We will spend the night at the Rokpa Guest House near the stupa. The hike takes approximately 5 to 6 hours.
We start our day with a vehicle ride to Budhanilkantha, where you can see the famous Vishnu statue resting on a bed of serpents. The name “Budhanilkantha” is derived from the ancient Newari language, where “Budha” signifies “old,” “Nila” translates to “blue,” and “Kantha” means “throat.” This historic temple is filled with history, spirituality, and beautiful architecture. Also called the “Sleeping Vishnu” or “Jalakshetra,” it reflects the deep respect and devotion that characterize Nepal’s heritage. After visiting Budhanilkantha, we will hike to the entrance of Shivapuri National Park. We continue along the park trail, which winds through the forest and ascends in switchbacks to the foot of the Nagi Gompa nunnery.
The next destination is Boudhanath, which has one of Nepal’s biggest spherical stupas. The town is built around this massive mandala. Buddhists come here in the evenings from all over the nation to perform mantra recitations and circumambulations. The act of walking around a stupa is known as a ‘Kora’ in Tibetan and Sherpa culture. At Boudhanath, you’ll meet a smiling and comforting crowd consisting of Sherpas, Tamang, exiled Tibetans, and Bhutanese, all connected by their Tibetan heritage. After exploring the area, check-in at a nearby hotel close to the stupa. You can also visit the Buddhist monasteries of the Gelugpa (yellow hat) school, the Nyingmapa (school of the ancients), and the Kagyupa. We will spend the night at the Rokpa Guest House near the stupa. The hike takes approximately 5 to 6 hours.
We start our day with a vehicle ride to Budhanilkantha, where you can see the famous Vishnu statue resting on a bed of serpents. The name “Budhanilkantha” is derived from the ancient Newari language, where “Budha” signifies “old,” “Nila” translates to “blue,” and “Kantha” means “throat.” This historic temple is filled with history, spirituality, and beautiful architecture. Also called the “Sleeping Vishnu” or “Jalakshetra,” it reflects the deep respect and devotion that characterize Nepal’s heritage. After visiting Budhanilkantha, we will hike to the entrance of Shivapuri National Park. We continue along the park trail, which winds through the forest and ascends in switchbacks to the foot of the Nagi Gompa nunnery.
The next destination is Boudhanath, which has one of Nepal’s biggest spherical stupas. The town is built around this massive mandala. Buddhists come here in the evenings from all over the nation to perform mantra recitations and circumambulations. The act of walking around a stupa is known as a ‘Kora’ in Tibetan and Sherpa culture. At Boudhanath, you’ll meet a smiling and comforting crowd consisting of Sherpas, Tamang, exiled Tibetans, and Bhutanese, all connected by their Tibetan heritage. After exploring the area, check-in at a nearby hotel close to the stupa. You can also visit the Buddhist monasteries of the Gelugpa (yellow hat) school, the Nyingmapa (school of the ancients), and the Kagyupa. We will spend the night at the Rokpa Guest House near the stupa. The hike takes approximately 5 to 6 hours.
