We Love —
- Discovering Nepal, a sensational country bordering the Himalayas on a amazing 7-night tour.
- Experiencing the grandeur and majesty of Nepalese art and architecture, and immersing yourself in the diverse Nepalese culture.
- Encountering the wildlife of Chitwan Park, marvelling at the steep, snow-covered Himalayan peaks, and visiting serene temples in Kathmandu.
Your Itinerary In Brief —
Begin your tour in the exciting city of Kathmandu, which provides a riot for the senses. Vegetable and spice vendors clamour for attention, while you’ll also find havens of tranquillity in flower-filled courtyards, tiny workshops, and hidden temples.
Next up is Bhaktapur, renowned for its elegant art and colourful festivals. Continue on to Chitwan National Park, with over 932 sq km of protected nature reserves, home to elephants, rhinos, and even Bengal tigers.
The last stop of your trip will be Pokhara valley, with forest-clad slopes connected by hanging bridges, Tibetan monasteries, and splendid views of the Himalayas.
7-Night Tour:
Day 1: Kathmandu
Day 2: Kathmandu Valley
Day 3: Kathmandu - Chitwan (165 km - 4-5 hrs)
Day 4: Chitwan
Day 5: Drive to Pokhara (156 km - 4-5 hrs)
Day 6: Pokhara
Day 7: Pokhara - Kathmandu (210 km - 5-6 hrs)
Day 8: Departure Kathmandu
Please note that the order of activities can be changed without affecting the programme.
Your Itinerary In Detail —
7-night Tour
DAY 1: KATHMANDU
Upon arrival, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Early check-in before 2 pm is only subject to availability of the rooms.
Visit Bouddhnath Stupa, which is the largest Buddhist Stupa in the world, and is defined in a Mandala design. A total of 108 images of Buddha and 147 insertions of prayer wheels adorn the base of the huge circular building. The colony of Boudhanath has the largest community of Tibetans - twelve thousand in total.
Suggestion with extra charge: Experience a blessing with a senior Lama at the monastery.
Visit the temple of Pashupatinath - one of the most sacred Hindu temples in the world and among the top five pilgrimage sites. Pashupatinath is the reincarnation of Shiva in his most benevolent form as a shepherd of fertility, so flowers and vermilion are offered.
Suggested extra: Attend the arati ceremony at Pashupatinath on the banks of the Bagmati river.
Overnight at the hotel.
DAY 2: KATHMANDU VALLEY
Changu Narayan Temple is located on a ridge overlooking the valley, about 12 km east of the city, and is dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu - the curator. One of the most beautiful and ancient specimens of pagoda architecture, the temple is adorned with wood and stone carvings. It is considered the oldest pagoda temple in Nepal, built in 323 AD.
The sacred complex is a World Heritage Site. From the temple one can see the beautiful Manohara River flowing like a snake through the green fields, and to the north on clear days one can see many peaks of the Himalayas with a panoramic view of the surroundings. Experience Newari culture and tradition around Changu Narayan temple before embarking on a gentle hike from Changu Narayan to Telkot.
The hiking area is located along the green ridge between Changu Narayan and Telkot Hill. The path is spectacular with the magnificent view of the valley to Kathmandu, Sankhu and Bhaktapur. The walk follows the saddle of a ridge with superb views of the valley to the right and the Himalayas on the left, the Ganesh Himal, the Lantang Range and Gauri Shankar. The hike lasts 2 - 3 hours according to the pace of the participants.
Leave for a guided tour of the city of Bhaktapur. Literally known as the 'City of the Devout', Bhaktapur is renowned for its elegant art, fabulous culture, colourful festivals, traditional dances, and typical Newari lifestyle. Explore the Royal Palace, the Golden Gate and the entrance to the Palace of 55 Windows, known as the most significant work of art in Nepal. Then visit the highest temple in the Kathmandu Valley: Nyatapola Temple.
Walk around the square, where you will observe the centuries-old pagoda-style construction and the Nyatapolo and Datta-Traya temples.
Suggestion with supplement: Visit a Nepali topi (the traditional hat) factory (closed on weekends) and the Nepal Vocational Academy in Bhaktapur.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 3 Onwards: Kathmandu, Chitwan & Pokhara
DAY 3: KATHMANDU - CHITWAN
The road to Chitwan will take 5 to 6 hours under normal road conditions. This may take longer in case of traffic jams or landslides. Upon arrival, the naturalist will welcome you, and you'll be given refreshments, and information on camp programmes and facilities.
Upon entering the park (Chitwan), meet with the naturalists/representatives of the jungle lodge, and cross the river on a small ferry and enter the Chitwan National Park. You'll be invited to lunch shortly upon arrival at the lodge to fuel up for an afternoon of activities in the jungle, such as canyoning, a Jungle Walk and visit to a Tharu dwelling.
The well-stocked bar caters to thirsty guests, and a hearty continental or Nepali meal is served around the campfire.
Dinner and overnight at the Jungle Lodge / Resort.
DAY 4: CHITWAN
Wake up early to observe wildlife early in the morning. It's the best time of the day to see the animals as you pass silently through the dewy grass (18-20 feet high), a habitat for rhinos, tigers and other wildlife. Spend 2-3 hours in the jungle, then return to the camp for breakfast.
Last chance to opt for more Jungle Activities before a pause for a refreshing drink in a small local bar while enjoying fresh fish and shellfish with a drink.
Dinner and overnight at the Jungle Lodge/Resort.
After breakfast, transfer to the exit point of the park, where you will your driver will be waiting for you. Enjoy a 4 - 5-hour scenic drive up to Pokhara, which is tucked away in a quiet valley behind the powerful Himalayan chain of Annapurna. Pokhara is also known as the holidaymaker's paradise.
While Kathmandu has medieval monuments and historic palaces, Pokhara leans more towards the natural side of life. In this picturesque city, mule trains travel through the centre, as they did for centuries, carrying food and other goods to remote Himalayan villages and to the Tibetan border. Join a morning walk to Sarangkot to see the glorious sunrise and the giants of the Western Himalaya range, while Lake Phewa offers a splendid view of Machhapuchare Peak.
Overnight at the hotel.
DAY 6: POKHARA
Begin your day with an early start and a refreshing tea or coffee at Sarangkot followed by a 30-minute walk to the ancient Kaski Fort. Located at the top of a hill, your viewpoint offers magnificent views of the Pokhara Valley, peaceful Phewa Lake and the various peaks of the Annapurna Range.
Back to the hotel for breakfast.
After breakfast at the hotel, your next destination is Kalimati, to visit the World Peace Stupa, located on a hill on the south shore of Phewa Lake. In addition to being an impressive sight in itself, the sanctuary boasts a magnificent vantage point, which offers spectacular views of the Annapurna Range and Pokhara below. Go down the hill through the wooded slopes, where the guide will explain the flora and fauna. Arriving at the shores of the lake, embark on an early evening cruise on Lake Phewa.
In the afternoon (weather permitting), take a guided tour of the city of Pokhara, which includes Davis Falls, Seti Gorge, and Bindabashini Temple.
Overnight at the hotel.
DAY 7: POKHARA - KATHMANDU
After breakfast, return to Kathmandu and check-in at the hotel. The evening is at your own leisure to explore the centre of Kathmandu in the district of Thamel.
Overnight at the hotel.
DAY 8: DEPARTURE FROM KATHMANDU
Breakfast at the hotel and at the appropriate time, you will be transferred to Kathmandu International Airport to embark on your return flight home.
9-night Tour
DAY 1: KATHMANDU
Upon arrival, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Early check-in before 2 pm is only subject to availability of the rooms.
Visit Bouddhnath Stupa, which is the largest Buddhist Stupa in the world, and is defined in a Mandala design. A total of 108 images of Buddha and 147 insertions of prayer wheels adorn the base of the huge circular building. The colony of Boudhanath has the largest community of Tibetans - twelve thousand in total.
Suggestion with extra charge: Experience a blessing with a senior Lama at the monastery.
Visit the temple of Pashupatinath - one of the most sacred Hindu temples in the world and among the top five pilgrimage sites. Pashupatinath is the reincarnation of Shiva in his most benevolent form as a shepherd of fertility, so flowers and vermilion are offered.
Suggested extra: Attend the arati ceremony at Pashupatinath on the banks of the Bagmati river.
Overnight at the hotel.
DAY 2: KATHMANDU - BHAKTAPUR
After breakfast at the hotel, take a guided tour to the ancient city of Patan, we will visit Kumari: - The living Goddess of Patan for her blessing and Tika.
Optional extra: Mountain Flight to view the Himalayas (day 2 or 3).
This ancient city of Patan, also known as Lalitpur or the City of Fine Arts, is located about five kilometres southeast of Kathmandu. The city is full of Hindu temples and Buddhist monuments. The main tourist attractions in Patan are: Durbar Square, Krishna Mandir, Mahaboudha and Hiranya Verna Mahavihar.
Meet a master of singing bowls therapy and visit a workshop to see how gold and silver jewellery is made.
Thimi: the most famous temple in Thimi is the 16th century Balkumari temple, dedicated to one of the Bhairab shaktis. The peacock vehicle of the goddess is depicted on a column in front of the temple, as well as on each corner of the temple. This is the main attraction of the Balkumari Jatra, a festival where Thimi welcomes the new year (around mid-April) with stirring scenes, as the 32 khats (palanquins) circle the temple while red powder is thrown at them.
A walk along the south side of Balkumari Temple Square leads to Thimi Potters' Square, which is full of ash-covered straw kilns. Continue for a tour of Bhaktapur.
Arrive and check into the hotel and enjoy free time in the late afternoon.
Overnight at the hotel.
DAY 3: BHAKTAPUR
Changu Narayan Temple is located on a ridge overlooking the valley, about 12 km east of the city. It is dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu - the preserver. One of the finest and oldest specimens of pagoda architecture, the temple is adorned with wood and stone carvings. It is considered the oldest pagoda temple in Nepal, built in 323 AD. The sacred complex is a World Heritage Site. From the temple we can see the beautiful Manohara River flowing like a snake through the green fields, and to the north on a clear day we can see many Himalayan peaks through a panoramic view of the surrounding area. We can see the Newari culture and tradition around the Changu Narayan temple. Gentle trek from Changu Narayan to Telkot.
The hiking area is located along the green ridge between Changu Narayan and Telkot hill. The path is spectacular with the magnificent view of the valley up to Kathmandu, Sankhu and Bhaktapur. The walk follows the saddle of a ridge with great views of the valley on the right and the Himalayas on the left, the Ganesh Himal, the Lantang range and Gauri Shankar.
The road passes through small villages and farmlands that are almost always bustling with the activity of farmers working their fields. There are few Tamang villages between Changu Narayan and Telkot. On the way to Chamling, Ban Gadi is also home to a Baba saint - Anga Nath, who has been surviving amazingly on fruits, vegetables, milk and water for the past 16 years along with the shrines of various deities, the largest trident of Shiva weighing more than a ton. The trek takes 2-3 hours, depending on the pace of the participants. The village of Telkot is at an altitude of 1560 m and is located 20 km from Kathmandu and 5 km from Bhaktapur on the way to Nagarkot. It is a small village with a few small houses, some of which have small stalls selling tea to travellers on the way to Nagarkot.
Hike to Telkot village at 1560 m altitude and 5 km from Bhaktapur.
After breakfast, we will go on a guided tour of the town of Bhaktapur. Situated to the east of the two Durbar Squares of Kathmandu and Patan, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, where the kings of the Malla dynasty lived until 1769, has left some of the finest examples of architectural excellence. Known literally as the 'city of devotees', renowned for its elegant art, fabulous culture, colourful festivals, traditional dances and typical Newari lifestyle. Here, explore the Royal Palace, the Golden Gate and the entrance to the 55 Window Palace, known as the most significant work of art in Nepal. Then visit the highest temple in the entire Kathmandu Valley, the Nyatapola Temple. Walk around the square, where you will observe the centuries-old pagoda-style construction and the Nyatapolo and Datta-Traya temples.
Suggestion with supplement: Visit a Nepali topi factory, the traditional hat (closed on weekends), and the Nepal Vocational Academy.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 4: Bhaktapur - Chitwan
The drive to Chitwan will take 5-6 hours in normal road conditions. It may take longer in case of traffic jams or landslides. On arrival, the naturalist will greet the participants, refreshments will be served and information on the camp programmes and facilities will be given. On arrival at the park entry point (Chitwan), meet the naturalists / jungle lodge representatives, and we will cross the river on a small ferry and enter Chitwan National Park.
On arrival, you will be invited for lunch.
Jungle Activities Canyoning, Jungle Walk and visit to a Tharu dwelling. The well stocked bar caters for the thirsty, and a hearty meal of continental or Nepalese cuisine will be served around the campfire.
Dinner and overnight at the Jungle Lodge / Resort (or similar).
DAY 5: CHITWAN
This is the best time of the day to see animals as we silently pass through the dewy grass (18-20 feet high), a habitat for rhinos, tigers and other wildlife. Spend 2-3 hours in the jungle, then return to camp for breakfast. Jungle Activities Canyoning, Jungle Walk and Tharu Home Tour
Suggestion with supplement: Have a refreshment in a small local bar, enjoying fresh fish and shellfish with a drink.
Dinner and overnight at Jungle Lodge / Resort.
DAY 6: POKHARA
After breakfast, transfer to the exit point of the park, where a vehicle will be waiting for you for the 4-5 hour scenic drive to Pokhara, which is 156 kms away - nestled in a quiet valley (827 m) behind the mighty Annapurna Himalayan range. Pokhara is also known as a holidaymaker's paradise.
While Kathmandu offers its medieval monuments and historic palaces, Pokhara leans more towards the natural side of life. Lying almost in the lap of the Western Himalayan range, this town is located 200KM west of Kathmandu. In this picturesque town, life slows down and everything moves faster. Mule trains pass through the town centre, as they have done for centuries, carrying food and other goods to remote Himalayan villages and the Tibetan border as modern ultra-light aircraft hum and paragliders soar even higher as if in defiance of the mountains that dominate the northern horizon. A morning walk to Sarangkot to see the glorious sunrise and the giants of the Western Himalayan range will be a treat, while Phewa Lake offers a splendid view of Machhapuchare Peak.
Overnight at the hotel.
DAY 7: POKHARA
After tea/coffee at Sarangkot (1,592 m) follow by a 2.5 km walk (approx. 30 minutes) to the ancient Kaski fort on top of a hill 5 km west of the Pokhara valley. This small hill offers a magnificent view of the Pokhara Valley, the peaceful Phewa Lake and the various peaks of the Annapurna range.
After breakfast at the hotel, board the vehicle to Kalimati to visit the World Peace Stupa, located on a hill on the southern shore of Phewa Lake. As well as being an impressive sight in its own right, the sanctuary has a magnificent vantage point, offering spectacular views of the Annapurna range and Pokhara below. Walk down the hill through the wooded slopes, where the guide will explain the flora and fauna. On reaching the shores of the lake, embark on an early evening cruise on Lake Phewa.
Overnight at the hotel.
DAY 8: POKHARA
After breakfast, drive to Phewa power station (07 km / 15 min drive).
We start walking from the Car Park and after crossing the suspension bridge, cross the small village of Damsadi (20 min), the 1st Viewpoint, enjoying the scenery of the Pardi River, Annapurna, Manaslu Himalayan range and the whole Pokhara valley. Further on foot to Ambot village (950m). Gentle uphill walk - about 30 minutes and return to Damsadi village, cross the suspension bridge and return to Pokhara.
Highlights of the Damsadi village hike:
- The longest suspension bridge in Kaski district (276 meters long).
- Enjoy the scenery of Pardi River, Annapurna, Manaslu, Dhaulagiri range
- Pokhara Valley (weather permitting)
- Damsadi Bridge (224 metres long)
- Location: South Pokhara
- Place Name: Damsadi Village
- Walking distance: 05 km
- Walking time: approx. 03 hours (including driving but not including rest time)
- Highest elevation: 950 m (view of Ambot village, Annapurna and Mt. Dhaulagiri)
- Lowest elevation: 800 m (starting point of the hike, Phewa power station)
In the late afternoon, visit the Jangchub Choeling Tibetan Monastery.
You will go to Hemja The Tibetan refugee camp located 5 km away. Once there, you will interact with a Family with a cup of tea, then go to the monastery meeting, then attend prayers. You will explore the whole camp on foot. Monastery, monk school, Buddhist temple, Tibetan market. Explore the whole village, your guide will keep you updated with the latest information. After the prayers, you will return to the hotel.
Overnight at the hotel.
DAY 9: POKHARA - KATHMANDU
After breakfast, return to Kathmandu and check into the hotel.
Free evening in the centre of Kathmandu in the Thamel district
Overnight at the hotel.
DAY 10: DEPARTURE FROM KATHMANDU
Breakfast at the hotel, then take a group transfer to the Kathmandu International Airport to board your return flight.
Your Hotels —
Just for you:
- Sightseeing tour of Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle (as per itinerary)
- English-speaking guide in Kathmandu and local English-speaking guide in Pokhara
- Local guide in Chitwan (guide will be from the lodge/resort and your guide will interpret)
- Included New Year's Eve Gala Dinner for guests staying on 31/12/2022
- Included Christmas Eve Gala Dinner for guests staying on 24/12/2022
- Entrance fees to monuments and sites in Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan National Park
- One bottle of water per day per person will be provided during the tour
HAND-PICKED JUST FOR YOU
Maximum room capacity
During this tour, you will stay in Standard Rooms in carefully selected 4* or 5* hotels or lodges (depending on the chosen offer). In each city stop, you will settle down comfortably to recharge your batteries before setting out again to discover the wonders of Nepal.
Your 4* hotels during the 7-night tour:
In Kathmandu: Dom Himalaya Hotel 4* or Ghangri Boutique Hotel 4* (or similar),
In Pokhara: Hotel Pokhara Batika 4* (or similar)
In Chitwan: Hotel Park Land 4* or Park Safari Resort 4* (or similar)
Your 5* hotels during the 7-night tour:
In Kathmandu: Aloft-Kathmandu-Thamel 5* (or similar)
In Pokhara: Himalayan Wildlife Sanctuary 5* (or similar)
In Chitwan: Himalayan Wildlife Sanctuary 5* (or similar)
In case of unavailability of the hotels listed above, you will be accommodated in a hotel of similar category.
Your dining choices
Benefit from meals included according to the itinerary. Enjoy Breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara and Full Board Basis (excluding drinks) in Chitwan for the 7-night tour.
You can also enjoy a Christmas gala dinner (excluding drinks) on 24/12/2022 or a New Year gala dinner (excluding drinks) on 31/12/2022 to celebrate the end of the year in style.
Guests staying on New Year's Eve (31st December) will have an additional fee added to the cost of their booking, payable for mandatory gala dinners on this date.
Guests staying on Christmas Eve (December 24th) will have an additional fee added to the cost of their booking, payable for mandatory gala dinners on this date.
Guests staying on New Year's Eve (31st December) will have an additional fee added to the cost of their booking, payable for mandatory gala dinners on this date.
Guests staying on Christmas Eve (December 24th) will have an additional fee added to the cost of their booking, payable for mandatory gala dinners on this date.
Your Optional Excursions —
Optional Mountain Flight to see the Himalayas by Plane
Take an optional flight to the top of the mountains and see the steep cliffs of the famous Himalayan range. Be impressed by the snow-capped peaks and climbing trails that the most daring of explorers have walked.
Please note: This optional Mountain Flight to See the Himalayas by Plane is only available on either day 2 or day 3 of the tour.
Optional English Speaking Guides Available From Day 3 to Day 7
Let yourself be accompanied by a guide so that you can enjoy your stay with complete peace of mind.
Your Journey to Nepal —
Flights:
You may choose from Economy, Premium or Business class flights on sectors that they operate, at the next stage of the booking process. The flights included are with either a scheduled or no-frills airline and are subject to live availability and prices can change. You can choose your preferred departure times during the booking process. Please select your flight options carefully as departure and arrival airports may differ.
Your Destination —
Kathmandu
The magic of the Himalayas is condensed in Kathmandu. The capital of Nepal is a city with an undeniable charm that envelops its visitors, offering them unique memories. You will feel that time flies by on your walks through Kathmandu. In this city, the aroma of tradition, rich culture, and the lights of progressive modernization are mixed in a unique way.
Kathmandu is located in the centre of a valley where up to seven Unesco World Heritage sites are counted. These sites offer you the opportunity to observe, first-hand, the complex geometry, grandeur, and majesty of Nepalese art and architecture and the respectful simplicity of the two dominant religions in Nepal: Hinduism and Buddhism. Kathmandu is worth it!