Duration(in days): 8
From: Kathmandu
To: Kathmandu
See more ideas for: Nepal
Discover the mountain country of Nepal, tucked under the Himalayas deep in the landmass of Asia. This itinerary will take you from vibrant Kathmandu to traffic-free Bhaktapur before admiring the vast Himalayas. You’ll relax in the lake-side town of Pokhara and try to spot a tiger in Chitwan National Park as you experience Nepalese culture and natural wildlife at its best.
This itinerary can be tailored to suit your requirements; please contact one of our consultants to start planning your dream trip.
After breakfast, you’ll be taken to the airport to catch the short flight to Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. On arrival, you’ll be met and taken to your hotel, checking in for two nights. Kathmandu is a beguiling city, with twisting alleys and bustling markets, as many idols as men and as many temples as houses. The concentration of art, culture and tradition that is found in the Kathmandu Valley, is hard to come across anywhere else in the world.
This morning, you’ll head out to explore Kathmandu with your guide. First you’ll visit Durbar Square, full of temples, monuments and ancient palaces in the heart of the city. You’ll see the Taleju Temple, towering over you at over 40m high, Kumari, the temple dedicated to Lord Ganesh and the giant pagoda, Kasthamandap, said to have been build from a single tree. Next, you’ll head to the famous monkey temple, Swayambhunath, which sits atop a hill overlooking the valley. The oldest reference to this stupa is from the 5th Century but it could date back even further. Finally you’ll visit Patan Durbar Square, around 5km from Kathmandu, where you can admire the Newari architecture and various temples, filled with stone carvings, metal statues and dozens of Hindu and Buddhist monuments.
If you’d like to, we can also book a scenic flight to see Mount Everest. You’ll soar over the Himalayas, looking down upon the tallest peak in the world, as well as the majestic ranges around the famous mountain. It’s a spectacular way to experience the Himalayas if you don’t have time for a trek. If you’d like to add on this experience, just ask!
After breakfast, you’ll be taken to the airport for the short flight to Pokhara. Known as the ‘jewel of the Himalayas’, Pokhara is nestled amongst a backdrop of snowy peaks, serene lakes and lush greenery, with something for every visitor, whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation. It’s the start point of many of Nepal’s most famous treks and has been luring mountain climbers for decades.
After checking into your hotel, you’ll head out to visit Tibetan Refugee Camp, to learn about the history of Tibet and their home in Nepal since the 1960s. It’s a wonderful way to interact with the community and learn about their plight. You’ll also take a short hike to the World Peace Pagoda, with spectacular views over Phewa Lake.
In the evening, you’ll take a boat ride on the lake – sit back and soak up the views of colourful boats along the shoreline, clear fresh water and the surrounding mountains. You’ll also have the chance to explore the lakeside souvenir shops and restaurants.
Today you’ll be up early to visit Sarangkot village, a small hill station near Pokhara. With panoramic views of the Himalayas you can enjoy the best sunrise views over the mountains, Pokhara City and Phewa Lake before returning to the hotel for breakfast.
After a delicious meal, you’ll head off to explore Pokhara, starting at the Nepal Mountaineering Association. Here, you’ll learn about the history of mountain climbing in this area before exploring the Bindabasini Temple with its colourful views over the city below. You’ll be able to explore the traditional bazaar, haggle over pretty bangles and scarves and enjoy friendly interactions with the locals.
In the afternoon you’ll leave the city and explore Seti River Gorge, where you can stand on the bridge and watch the turbulent river rush through the gap before visit Devi’s Falls, a beautiful waterfall nearby. Across the road, you’ll also see Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, with a huge stalagmite that is worshipped as a Shiva lingam.
After breakfast, you’ll be driven back to the airport for the short flight to Chitwan National Park. On arrival you’ll be driven to your accommodation, Bahari Jungle Lodge, where you’ll check in for two nights. This afternoon you’ll head out on a jeep drive to look for wildlife. Set in the foothills of the Churia Ranges, Chitwan is a wilderness of jungle and forest where elephants and rhino wander amongst the lush undergrowth. Tigers are rare but can be spotted if you are lucky!
You’ll spend the day searching for wildlife and exploring the lush forests of Chitwan. Birdlife is thriving here and bird watchers will have over 450 species to look for in the early mornings and magical twilight times. You’ll be able to enjoy a jungle walk, exploring different areas from the flood plain grasslands to the dense Sal forests. Walking around disturbs the animals less, as well as giving you the opportunity to learn about the plants and herbs in the forest. You’ll also get to go on a dugout canoe along the river, looking for gharials, a type of crocodile, as they float with their babies on their noses.
Chitwan is famous for its one-horned rhinos, as well as being a protected area for the Bengal tiger. Look out for elephants in the undergrowth, pulling down vines with their trunks while they eat, and hornbills soaring through the air in a rush of flight.
After breakfast, you’ll be driven to the airport for your flight to Kathmandu. On arrival, you’ll be driven to Bhaktapur, to explore the city. Named as the City of Devotees, this place is a hub oof medieval art and architecture. Around 9 miles away from Kathmandu, it is shaped like a conch shell, with the Durbar Square in the heart of the streets. You’ll visit the Nyatapola Temple, with five terraces making up the pagoda, as well as the 55 window palace that overlooks the square.
In the evening you’ll head back to Kathmandu for your final night in the city – why not head out for a delicious dinner to celebrate your final night in Nepal.
After breakfast, you’ll be taken to the airport for your flight to Kuala Lumpur.
The peak time to visit Nepal is March to May, and September to November. Accommodation is likely to fill early during these months so advance booking is necessary – especially during the popular festivals!
This itinerary is purely a suggestion and can be tailor-made to your requirements, so please contact us with your dates and requests, and we’ll put together a bespoke quotation for you.
Return airport transfers
Accommodation as mentioned in the itinerary
Meals as mentioned in the itinerary
Excursions as mentioned in the itinerary
Any meals not mentioned
Personal expenses
Tips & gratuities