Discover the timeless beauty and cultural richness of Nepal on this immersive ten-day journey through its most iconic landscapes and heritage sites. From the sacred temples and medieval squares of the Kathmandu Valley to the serene hilltops of Nagarkot and the tranquil lakeside setting of Pokhara, this tour offers a perfect balance of culture, nature, and adventure. Experience centuries-old traditions in Newari villages, explore UNESCO World Heritage monuments, witness spiritual rituals along holy rivers, and enjoy breathtaking sunrises over the Himalayas. Venture deep into the jungles of Chitwan National Park in search of rare wildlife, then unwind amid the majestic Annapurna range. This unforgettable journey reveals Nepal in all its diversity – spiritual, scenic, and spectacular.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Kathmandu Valley: Capital region of Nepal, home to historic Durbar Squares in Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur, featuring palaces, temples, and traditional Newari architecture. UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Nagarkot: Hill station with panoramic views of the Himalayan range, including Everest and Annapurna on clear days.
Boudhanath Stupa: One of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world, a major center of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Chitwan National Park: UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Terai region, known for Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinoceros, gharial crocodiles, and rich subtropical biodiversity.
Pokhara & Phewa Lake: Lakeside city in western Nepal, gateway to the Annapurna range. Phewa Lake is the second-largest lake in Nepal, with Barahi Temple on an island and the World Peace Pagoda nearby.
Sarangkot: Hilltop vantage point near Pokhara, famous for Himalayan sunrise views and views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Peak).
Day 1: ARRIVAL KATHMANDU
On arrival in Kathmandu, you will be welcomed by our local representative and transferred to your hotel.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2: KATHMANDU
After breakfast at the hotel, depart for an excursion to Bungamati, a small Newari village that has preserved its traditions and way of life remarkably well. Located only a few kilometers from Kathmandu, the village remains largely untouched by modern influences and offers an authentic glimpse into Nepal’s ancient culture. Your visit begins at a viewpoint overlooking Bungamati and the neighboring village of Khokana.
Stroll through the narrow lanes of Bungamati, where you will encounter local Newar artisans carving intricate designs in wood and stone. Bungamati is also historically important as the starting point of the Machindranath chariot procession, one of the most significant Newari festivals. Nearby lies Khokana, another traditional Newari village, known for its important Durga temple.
In the afternoon, visit Patan, also known as Lalitpur, the “City of Beauty.” One of the most important historical cities of the Kathmandu Valley, Patan was once a royal capital and a major center of Buddhist learning, evidenced by numerous monasteries scattered throughout the city. According to tradition, Emperor Ashoka erected one of the four great stupas marking the cardinal points of the city, making Patan possibly the oldest Buddhist city in Asia. Explore Durbar Square, said to be shaped like a conch shell, a symbol of Vishnu, and admire the royal palace with its inner courtyards, attributed to King Siddhi Narasimha.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 3: KATHMANDU – BHAKTAPUR – NAGARKOT (35km – 1.5hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Bhaktapur, also known as Bhadgaon, considered the most beautiful city in the Kathmandu Valley. Renowned for its exceptionally preserved medieval character, the town is filled with palaces, temples, and traditional Newari houses.
Visit Bhaktapur Durbar Square, the heart of the old city, including the Royal Palace and the Palace of 55 Windows with its exquisitely carved wooden frames. Continue to Taumadhi Square to visit the majestic Nyatapola Temple, the tallest temple in the valley, standing 30 meters high. Built in 1702, it is the finest example of Nepalese religious architecture.
You will also discover Dattatreya Temple, built in 1427 and dedicated to an incarnation of Vishnu, and Pujari Math, also known as the Peacock House, a former monastery famous for its finely carved wooden window.
Continue to Changunarayan Temple, dedicated to Vishnu and renowned for its exceptional Licchavi-era stone carvings. Situated on a hill east of Kathmandu, it is one of the oldest Hindu temples in Nepal.
Proceed to Nagarkot, a hilltop village famous for its panoramic Himalayan views and check in at your hotel.
Overnight in Nagarkot.
Day 4: NAGARKOT – KATHMANDU (30km – 1.5hrs)
Early morning wake-up to enjoy the sunrise over the Himalayan range (weather permitting).
After breakfast, drive back to Kathmandu. Visit Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest stupas in the world, built in the 5th century. This important pilgrimage site is the spiritual heart of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal.
Continue to Pashupatinath Temple, the most sacred Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, located on the banks of the Bagmati River. While entrance to the main temple is restricted to Hindus, visitors can observe the temple complex and the cremation rituals taking place on the river ghats.
In the afternoon, explore Kathmandu Durbar Square, the historic center of the old city. Wander among palaces, temples, pagodas, statues, and cobbled streets that create a timeless and vibrant atmosphere. Visit Kumari Bahal, home of the Living Goddess, famous for its remarkable wood carvings; Kashthamandap, the legendary wooden pavilion built from a single tree; Shiva Parvati Temple; Kal Bhairab, a fierce manifestation of Shiva; and the temple of Seto Machhendranath, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.
End the day with a visit to Swayambhunath, the iconic hilltop stupa also known as the Monkey Temple. Dating back over 2,500 years, it offers a panoramic view over Kathmandu Valley and features the all-seeing eyes of Buddha symbolizing wisdom and compassion.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 5: KATHMANDU – CHITWAN (150km – 6hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Terai lowlands and known as the “Heart of the Jungle.” The park is home to endangered species, including the Bengal tiger and the one-horned rhinoceros, as well as leopards, deer, bears, crocodiles, gharials, and even the rare Ganges dolphin.
Over the next two days, enjoy jungle activities accompanied by a local naturalist guide (depending on time and conditions), such as a canoe ride on the Rapti River to observe crocodiles and birdlife (over 450 bird species), guided jungle walks, and jeep safaris.
Overnight in Chitwan.
Day 6: CHITWAN
After breakfast, the entire day is devoted to jungle activities according to the lodge’s program.
Overnight in Chitwan.
Day 7: CHITWAN – POKHARA (135km – 4hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Pokhara, beautifully set between lakes and the Annapurna mountain range. On arrival, check in at your hotel.
In the afternoon, explore Pokhara: visit Devi’s Falls, Gupteshwor Cave, Bindebasini Temple, and the Tibetan Refugee Camp. Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Phewa Lake (about one hour), the second-largest lake in Nepal. Discover Barahi Temple, located on an island in the middle of the lake, and admire the World Peace Pagoda, offering spectacular views of the Annapurna range. The tranquil waters of Phewa Lake combined with the dramatic backdrop of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain, 6,977 m) create a magical atmosphere.
Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 8: POKHARA
Early morning departure to Sarangkot to witness the sunrise over the Himalayas and the iconic Fishtail peak (weather permitting).
Return to the hotel for breakfast or enjoy breakfast at a local restaurant. Later, drive to Khade Khola and begin a scenic uphill hike to Kalabang via a Gurung village (approximately 4–5 hours).
The remainder of the day is free at leisure.
Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 9: POKHARA – KATHMANDU (210km – 6.5hrs)
After breakfast, drive back to Kathmandu through scenic countryside. On arrival, check in at your hotel. The rest of the day is free for leisure, shopping, or personal exploration.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 10: KATHMANDU DEPARTURE
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your return flight.
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