Nepal: Harmony of Heritage, Wilderness, and Culture

Upon your arrival, one of our representatives will be waiting to greet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. As you settle , we will arrange a convenient time to meet, depending on your arrival schedule. At the hotel, we will gather for a detailed briefing of your upcoming journey, providing you with an overview of the exciting experiences ahead. To make the evening even more special, we’ll conclude with a delightful welcome dinner, where you can savor a taste of authentic local cuisine. 

We will immerse ourselves in the historically and culturally rich Kathmandu Valley, home to some of Nepal's most iconic landmarks. Our journey will take us to the heart of the valley, where we’ll explore its treasured sites, each offering a unique glimpse into the country’s spiritual and architectural heritage.

Swayambhunath Temple (Monkey Temple)

Our adventure begins with a visit to Swayambhunath, affectionately known as the Monkey Temple due to the playful monkeys that roam its grounds. Perched atop a hill, this ancient stupa offers panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley. The temple is one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Nepal, with its iconic golden spire and painted eyes of Buddha that gaze out in all directions. The site’s rich history, dating back over 2,000 years, is complemented by the peaceful ambiance of its prayer flags, shrines, and stupas.

Bouddhanath Stupa

Next, we will visit Bouddhanath Stupa, one of the largest and holiest Tibetan Buddhist stupas in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a sacred hub for both locals and Tibetan Buddhists, featuring a massive mandala design and surrounded by monasteries. The stupa’s peaceful atmosphere, combined with the prayer wheels that encircle it, invites visitors to walk in meditation. The vibrant hustle of pilgrims, the fluttering prayer flags, and the scent of incense all add to the spiritual energy of this sacred place.

Pashupatinath Temple

Our next stop is the revered Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu temples in Nepal. Situated on the banks of the Bagmati River, Pashupatinath is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is a major pilgrimage destination for Hindus from around the world. The temple’s intricate wooden carvings, sacred ghats, and the constant rhythm of prayer make it a profound spiritual experience. Witnessing the evening Aarti (ritual of worship with fire) along the river is a particularly moving experience, as the flames illuminate the sacred waters and create an ethereal atmosphere.

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Finally, we will explore the Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the historic heart of the city. This vibrant square is home to grand palaces, intricately carved temples, and beautiful courtyards. It was once the royal palace complex, where kings were crowned and ruled, and it still stands as a testament to the splendor of the Malla period. Key highlights include the Hanuman Dhoka Palace, the Kumari Ghar (residence of the living goddess), and the Jagannath Temple. As we wander through the square, the beauty of the architecture, the bustling atmosphere, and the deep sense of history will transport us back in time.

Today, we will explore the medieval city of Bhaktapur, also known as the City of Devotees. As we wander through this enchanting destination, we will visit numerous shrines, temples, and palaces, allowing ourselves to feel as though we are traveling back in time.

In the afternoon, we will make our way to the beautiful monastery of Namo Buddha, where we will spend the night. This serene setting offers a wonderful opportunity to immerse ourselves in the rich Buddhist culture and traditions.

After breakfast, we will embark on a scenic drive from Namo Buddha to Chitwan, a journey that takes approximately 6-7 hours.

In the evening, we'll take a leisurely walk through the village to witness a breathtaking sunset. This is also a perfect opportunity to spot wildlife, including rhinoceros, elephants, and crocodiles.

Later, we will enjoy a vibrant cultural dance performance by the Tharu people.

The Tharu are the indigenous inhabitants of the region, with their own rich traditions, cultural practices, and religious beliefs. Historically, they lived in the dense forests, relying on hunting and fishing for their livelihood.

Today, our adventure begins after breakfast with a canoe ride along the serene Rapti River. As we glide through the calm waters, we’ll have the chance to observe a variety of wildlife, including crocodiles, vibrant bird species, and perhaps even a rhinoceros. Our journey will also take us to the Elephant Breeding Centre, where we can learn about the conservation efforts for these majestic creatures.

After lunch, we’ll embark on a thrilling jeep safari through the jungle. The wilderness here is teeming with life, and we may encounter some of the region's most iconic animals, including the elusive Bengal tiger, wild elephants, the famous one-horned rhinoceros, bears, and gaur (Indian bison). The safari offers opportunities to spot leopards, wild boars, and both gharial and mugger crocodiles, as well as various species of turtles and birds. Deer of different kinds will also make their presence known, adding to the richness of this wild, untamed experience.

After a leisurely breakfast, we will begin our scenic drive from Chitwan to Kathmandu. The journey spans approximately 150 kilometers and takes around 7-8 hours, offering us the chance to enjoy the changing landscapes of Nepal. As we travel, we will pass through lush green fields, rural villages, and winding mountain roads, giving us a glimpse into the heart of Nepalese life. The drive offers picturesque views of the countryside, with the Himalayas often peeking through the clouds in the distance.

Upon our arrival in Kathmandu, the rest of the afternoon will be yours to relax and explore at your own pace. You’ll have the opportunity to indulge in some shopping, whether you're looking for handcrafted souvenirs, local spices, or traditional textiles. Kathmandu’s vibrant markets and bustling streets offer a treasure trove of unique items, perfect for capturing the essence of your journey. Take your time to wander through the colorful bazaars, soaking in the lively atmosphere and perhaps finding that perfect memento to take home.

Today we will visit the two UNESCO heritage site Patan.

Patan, also known as Lalitpur, is one of the most historically and culturally significant cities in Nepal. Situated just a few kilometers south of Kathmandu, Patan is renowned for its rich heritage, ancient temples, stunning palaces, and intricate Newar architecture. The city is often regarded as a living museum, where history and tradition seamlessly blend with daily life.

On the day of your departure, we will ensure a smooth and comfortable journey to the airport. A private car or jeep will be at your service, ready to escort you to the airport in plenty of time before your flight. Whether you’re reflecting on the unforgettable experiences of your trip or simply enjoying the last glimpses of the city, we will make sure your journey is as relaxed and hassle-free as possible, allowing you to depart with ease and peace of mind.