Day 1: Kathmandu
Kathmandu, capital and largest city of Nepal, is located in the heart of the country. Long considered as the fabulous and inaccessible Shangri-La, Kathmandu is today a holiday destination in development and for all budgets.
According to the legend, Kathmandu Valley was once a turquoise lake on which a lotus flower floated. Manjushree (Padmasambav), a Chinese holy patriarch would have cut the wall of the valley with his sword of flamboyant wisdom in Chovar in order to let the dry land appear. The lotus flower would have remained on the ground where Manjushree made build the great stupa of Swayambhunath.
The Kathmandu Valley includes the three ancient royal cities: Patan, Bhaktapur and Kathmandu, each with their own Palaces and all protected by UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In this Palace, you will be able to see alleys adorned with magnificent cobblestones, a fascinating labyrinth or temples and sanctuaries and markets full of life. One of our representatives will be there to greet you at the airport and you will be transferred directly to your hotel.
The rest of the day is free.
Overnight in the hotel.
Day 2: Kathmandu
Your day is devoted to the visit of Kathmandu Square, Swoyambhunath Stupa and Patan Durbar Square.
Kathmandu Durbar Square is located in the core of kathmandu’s old town and the founding of Durbar (Royal Palace) dates back to Licchavi times. Thanks to considerable renovations undertaken by Malla rules and later by the Ranas, the construction was gradually completed over several centuries. There are no fewer than 50 temples in the vincity.
You visit the 17th century Durbar Complex, Hanuman Dhoka, The Paravati Temple, Great Bell and Drum, Bhairav, Taleju Temple and other temples that encircle it. A little further on is the living goddess temple, where you will probably take a picture of the Kumari from one of the open windows overlooking the inner courtyard. In the surroundings you will have the opportunity to admire the splendor of the historical monuments in the lively market place. Sellers of vegetables, flute trees, sellers and their wares, vendors of street souvenirs, and street shops selling imported goods. Nestled in a quiet corner, you will find the sparkling pearls market to buy customized pearl necklaces.
At the top of a green hill to the west of Kathmandu stands the great stupa of Swoyambhunath, a site of more than 2500 years marking the point where the legendary Patriarch Manjushree discovered the lotus of the ancient Valley’s lake. Swoyambhunath offers a splendid view of Kathmandu city. This huge stupa is one of the most sacred sites of Buddhist in Nepal and its establishment is linked to the creation of Kathmandu. Patan, also known as Lalitpur or the "City of Fine Arts" is the oldest town in the valley and was founded by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BC. JC.
Patan, the cradle of art and architecture of the valley, is both a great center of the Newari Buddhist religion and traditional arts and crafts which number no less than 136 bahals and 55 major temples of which the best known are the Krishna MandirAndHiranya Varna Mahavihar (The Golden Temple).
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 3: Kathmandu
After breakfast, you visit Pashupatinath temple, Boudhanath Stupa and Bhaktapur Durbar Square.
The Pashupatinath Temple is considered as one of the holiest places of all Hindu temples in the world, while the Shiva Temple, Pashupatinath, with its golden roof and silver doors is known for its superb architecture. The entrance to the temple is reserved to Hindu but you can see it from the eastern bank of the Bagmati River overlooking the cremation sites.
These two magnificent golden temples with four silver doors is a unique example of the Nepalese temple architecture. It is one of the largest Hindu temples in South Asia containing hundreds of Shiva Lingons, sanctuaries enclosing icons of multiple Hindu Gods and Goddesses. Boudhanath, the largest Stupa in Nepal, is encircled by vast houses and monasteries, where Rinpoches resides.
Also known as "Little Tibet" by its unique atmosphere from the old market square of Barkhor in Lhasa, it is a place that many Tibetan visit as it is a place of pilgrimage and commerce. You have the opportunity to visit the surrounding monasteries and spend some time with the monks and be blessed.
Bhaktapur, also known as Bhadgaon, home of medieval art and architecture and recognized for pottery and weaving. It is the most charming and best preserved village in the valley of the three cities. You will visit the ancient gateway, Durbar Square, the Royal Residential Quarter of Bhupatindra Malla, Batsala temple, Bhairavnath temple, Duttatraya, Pujari Math and a palace with 55 windows. You will walk to the famous Nyatapole temple, the five-storey temple built in pagoda style, the largest temple in the country guarded by a series of mythical animals and divinities as well as the Bhairav temple dedicated to the Deity of Bhairav.
Overnight in the hotel.
Day 4: Kathmandu-Pokhara
In the morning, you take the road towards Pokhara passing by the mountain road winds (200Kms / 6Hrs)
Pokhara, a city of natural beauty, is a remarkable place. Located 900m above sea level and 200km west of the Kathmandu valley, the attractive town has a number of lakes and offers a splendid panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks. The serenity of the lakes and the resplendent beauty of the Himalayas which can be seen creates an atmosphere of peace and magic.
Transfer to the hotel.
In the evening you stroll around Phewa Lake (on your own)
Overnight in the hotel.
Day 5: Pokhara
Early in the morning, you leave for an excursion on the Sarangkote Mountain and thus witness the sunrise and a magnificent view of the mountains (if weather permits it).
Sarangkote is the best known Pokhara point of view. Located at 1592m altitude, you will be dazzled by the view you will have on Mount. Machhapuchhare and the Massif Annapurna (if weather permitting). At this location you will also have a beautiful view of the Pokhara valley.
After breakfast, your morning is spent exploring the city, David Falls, the Gupteshwor Cellar, the Old Bazaar, the Bindhyabasini Temple, etc.
Nicknamed "Patale Chhagho" by the locals, the enchanting David falls are about 2kms south-west of the center, on the Tansen highway.
In July 1961, a Swiss couple was bathing in Pardi Khola quiet waters, just above the waterfall when a sudden flood swept Mrs. David who mysteriously disappeared in the underpasses below the falls. This story gave the name of this woman to the waterfall: David's fall.
Just opposite the falls is the Gupteshwor cellars that you visit before discovering the colorful old bazaar of Pokhara. You can guess the style of the architecture of Newar craftsmanship expressed in its temples and windows that show the richness of the past. The Bindhyabasini temple is the center of the religious activities of the old bazaar. Dedicated to the goddess, Bhagawati and a Shati demonstration and Tuesdays and Saturdays, people sacrifice their animals thinking that it will help them fill with desires and wishes.
You continue your day with a boat ride on Phewa Lake. Largest lake in the Pokhara valley, Phewa Lake, 1.5 km by 4 km, is perfectly located if you want to go boating, admire the various birds there and photograph the magnificent view of the mountains. This excellent setting as well as the reflection of the Annapurna Mountains on the calm waters of the lake is something that visitors won’t miss for anything during this ride. Annapurna seems so close that it almost feels like you can touch it.
The afternoon is free.
Overnight in the hotel.
Day 6: Pokhara-Chitwan
After breakfast, you will pass by a winding road to join the Chitwan National Park (165kms about 5h drive). You settle in the hotel upon arrival.
Chitwan National Park is very proud to be recognized as one of the best managed parks in Asia. Counting no less than 50 species of mammals, 55 species of amphibians and reptiles and 525 species of birds, the flourishing wildlife here includes, the great one horn rhinoceros, wild buffalo, lazy bear, four different species of deer, the Rhesus Monkey and the Black Langur, the Spotted Leopard, the Gharial Fish Eater, the Flesh-Eating Crocodile and the Gangetic Dolphin among many others. It is also one of the last refuges where you can see the royal tiger of Bengal and the life of the birds is also very rich and varied: a great pleasure for ornithologists.
Your afternoon starts with an elephant safari to explore the jungle and wildlife of this reserve. The rhinoceros with a horn, several types of deer, monkeys, wild boars, the lazy bear of Himalayas, the spotted leopard and, if you are lucky, the famous Bengal tiger are some of the animals you will be able to see.
The safari hardly takes 2 to 3 hours.
Overnight in the hotel.
Day 7: Chitwan
Several activities in the jungle such as a walk in the jungle, a canoe trip and the visit of a tribal village are on the program.
The jungle walk allows you to explore different habitats, from the flooded grassland to the wide forest, where you have the opportunity to spot animals at your own pace. During the walk, you will also have the chance to discover different types of plants and herbs. Naturalists will be able to give you detailed descriptions of the wildlife and flora of this park.
Floating on the river by canoe is the best way to discover the habitat of crocodiles on the riverbank. It is a relaxing way to see the different types of waterfowl and some animals when they approaches the river's edge to drink water.
You then go for a walk near the Tharu village where the inhabitants are indigenous people of Terai. Having all a different architectural style, the buildings are constructed with natural materials found in the vicinity; Straw, wood and mud. Villages are often peaceful, non-industrial refuges, where the inhabitants engage annually in an agricultural circle (The jungle activities are likely to be changed or staggered depending on demand and situation).
In the evening you are either invited to watch a slide show Chitwan Park fauna and flora or attend a folk dance performance of a local tribe. The inhabitants of the surrounding villages (Tharu) will show you their traditional and melodious tribal dance skills. Your participation is highly recommended.
Overnight in the hotel.
Day 8: Chitwan-Lumbini
In the morning you take the road to Lumbini via the Terai highway
Lumbini, located in the center of Terai in Nepal, lies at the foot of the Himalayan Mountains. For millions of Buddhists from all over the world, this city evokes a kind of holy feeling similar to the meaning of Jerusalem for Christians and Mecca for Muslims.
Lumbini is the place where the Lord Buddha - the apostle of peace and light of Asia –who was born in 623 BC. JC. In historical terms, the area is a precious treasure of ancient ruins and antiquities, dating from the pre-Christian era. The site (The Lumbini Garden) has been described as a beautiful garden in Buddha times and has always retained its legendary charm as well its beauty. Both of Shakyas and Kolias clans held the garden and its quiet surroundings at the same time that the birth of Buddha.
King Suddhodana, Buddha’s father, was from the Shakya dynasty belonging to the Caste of Kshatriya or Warrior.
You are transferred to the hotel where you settle upon arrival.
In the afternoon you will discover the sacred garden of Lumbini. It was here, in the garden of Lumbini, that Prince Siddhartha Gautam, who later became a Buddha, was born in 623 BC. The native site is marked by a commemorative pillar erected by Emperor Mauryan Ashoka of India during his pilgrimage to the holy site in 249 BC. JC
Overnight in the hotel.
Day 9: Lumbini-Khatmandu
In the morning, you are transferred to Bhairahawa Airport to catch a flight and return to Kathmandu
Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, you are transferred to the hotel where you settle.
You are free for the rest of the day.
Overnight in the hotel.
Day 10 : Kathmandu / Nagarkote
Morning, after breakfast drive to Nagarkote hill.
Nagarkote hill, situated 2175m above sea level, Nagarkote is a popular tour and hill destination of Nepal. It is famous mountain views. Five of the world’s 10 tallest Mountains: Everest(8,848m), Lhotse (8,516m), Cho Oyu (8,201m), Makalu (8463m) and Manaslu (8,163m) along with many other lesser summits can be viewed from this place (during clear weather). The place is surrounded by the terraced hillside and most beautiful scenery. Walk around Nagarkote village.
Transfer to the hotel in Nagarkote.
Possibility of Sunset/mountain view from the hotel (weather permitting)
Overnight at your hotel in Nagarkote
Day 11 : Departure: Nagarkote / Kathmandu / New Delhi
Early morning, possibility of mountain/sunrise view from the hotel (weather permitting)
After breakfast, drive back to Kathmandu
Transfer to the airport to connect your international flight.