Day 1: Arrival at TIA Kathmandu

Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, the vibrant capital of Nepal, our airport representative will warmly welcome you and escort you to your hotel. A city rich in history and culture, Kathmandu is a fascinating blend of ancient temples, bustling markets, and colorful traditions. Later, your tour leader will provide a detailed briefing about the upcoming journey.

Mountain of Nepal

Included: Airport pick-up & Accommodation at Kathmandu area

Day 2: Full Sightseeing day in Kathmandu

Begin your day in Patan, an ancient Newar city renowned for its rich cultural heritage. Explore the historic Patan Durbar Square, home to a stunning collection of temples, courtyards, and palaces. Highlights include the Golden Gate, the towering Taleju Temple, the statue of King Yogendra Malla, Krishna Mandir, Sati Temple, Hiranya Varna Mahavihar (Golden Temple), and Mahabouddha. As you stroll through the city’s narrow lanes, admire intricately carved wooden windows, bustling bazaars, and curio shops.

Patan Durbar Square, once the royal palace of the Malla kings, is the smallest yet often considered the most exquisite of the three Durbar Squares in the Kathmandu Valley. The square features three main courtyards—Mul Chowk, Sundari Chowk, and Keshav Chowk—with Sundari Chowk housing a remarkable example of stone architecture.

Afternoon Sightseeing: Swoyambhunath & Kathmandu Durbar Square
Next, visit Swoyambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple. This ancient stupa, believed to be over 2,000 years old, is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in Nepal. It is said to have been built during the reign of King Manadeva in 460 A.D. Over time, Swoyambhunath became a vital center for Buddhist learning and continues to be a revered pilgrimage site, offering panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley.

Continue to Kathmandu Durbar Square, located in the heart of the old city at Basantapur. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was once the royal residence before the construction of the Narayanhiti Palace. The square features around fifty temples, including the revered Taleju Bhawani Temple, Kumari Ghar (home of the Living Goddess), Kasthamandap, and Shiva-Parvati Temple. The inner courtyards contain the historic Hanuman Dhoka Palace and two museums. The square has hosted significant national ceremonies, such as royal coronations, and remains open to visitors throughout the week.

Scenery of Patan Durbar Square at Kathmandu, Nepal

Day 3: Drive to Chitwan

On arrival at the resort in Chitwan, check in and enjoy some free time before lunch, which will be served at the resort. In the afternoon, explore Royal Chitwan National Park, Nepal’s first national park established in 1973 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spanning 932 sq. km in the subtropical lowlands of south-central Nepal, the park is a remarkable conservation success, home to over 43 species of mammals including the endangered one-horned rhinoceros, Bengal tiger, gharial crocodile, and other rare wildlife such as pangolins, Gangetic dolphins, wild elephants, striped hyenas, and sloth bears. Later, take a 1.5 to 2-hour cultural tour of a nearby Tharu village, where you can experience the traditional lifestyle of this indigenous community. In the evening, enjoy an engaging slide show presentation led by a resident naturalist, sharing insights into the park’s rich history, diverse wildlife, and ongoing conservation efforts. Conclude the day with dinner and an overnight stay at the resort, with all meals included under the full board plan.

Nepal Wildlife

Day 4: Chitwan with full activities

Begin your day with a wake-up call followed by a refreshing cup of tea or coffee, then set out on an early morning bird watching tour. Royal Chitwan National Park is a haven for bird lovers, home to over 530 species of birds. Accompanied by a knowledgeable naturalist, you’ll explore on foot as the forest comes alive with birdsong. Keep an eye out for species such as cormorants, herons, cranes, ducks, egrets, storks, cuckoos, kingfishers, swallows, orioles, drongos, babblers, hawks, osprey, falcons, kestrels, parakeets, ibis, kites, woodpeckers, and many others. Breakfast will be served at the hotel.

In the afternoon, experience the thrill of a jeep safari deep into the national park. With an expert driver at the wheel and a naturalist guide by your side, this adventure takes you along rugged jungle tracks in search of wildlife. You may encounter various species including spotted deer, barking deer, hog deer, monkeys, wild boars, sloth bears, hyenas, leopards, and—if you’re fortunate—the majestic Royal Bengal tiger. As you journey through the forest, your naturalist will provide fascinating insights into the region’s diverse flora and fauna. Lunch will be served at the resort.

In the evening, enjoy a captivating performance of Tharu cultural dance, where local villagers showcase their traditional music, dances, and customs—offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Day 5: Chitwan to Rajko Danda

Your driver will take you on a scenic journey of approximately five hours to Rajko Danda, where you’ll experience a village homestay. The accommodation is simple yet clean and comfortable, offering a genuine glimpse into rural Nepali life. Highlights of your stay include experiencing the authentic lifestyle of the local community, enjoying home-cooked organic meals, and witnessing a culture that is rapidly disappearing. After lunch, you’ll set out on a guided walking tour of the village, including a visit to the local primary school. This district holds historical importance as part of Nepal’s last ruling Royal Family and is also one of the key recruitment regions for the legendary Gurkha soldiers.

In the evening, enjoy a lively cultural performance by the local women’s organization, and immerse yourself in the tradition by sampling a glass of locally distilled “hooch”—a customary drink offered during cultural gatherings.

Day 6: Pokhara

Begin your day with an early morning walk to the Shiva Temple—a peaceful 30-minute hike—to witness the sunrise over the Himalayas (weather permitting). This breathtaking moment is considered one of the highlights of the entire tour, offering a panoramic view of the Himalayas stretching over 300 kilometers.

After breakfast, set off on a scenic drive to Pokhara (approximately 4 hours). Upon arrival, check in to your deluxe resort, then head out for a half-day sightseeing tour exploring some of Pokhara’s most iconic sites.

Your tour includes a visit to the Gurkha Museum, which offers deep insight into the bravery and history of Nepal’s famed Gurkha soldiers. You’ll also visit the sacred Bindabasini Temple, one of the city’s most important Hindu shrines.

Continue on to Devi’s Fall, a captivating waterfall located about 2 km southwest of Pokhara Airport. Also known as Devin’s or David’s Fall, it is named after a traveler who tragically disappeared into the underground canal below the waterfall, giving rise to local legend.

Next, explore Gupteshwor Cave, one of the largest caves in Pokhara and a sacred site dedicated to Lord Shiva. This natural wonder lies just across from Devi’s Fall and is a must-visit for its impressive limestone formations and religious significance.

Pokhara, set at an elevation of 900 meters and 200 km west of Kathmandu, is renowned for its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. With serene lakes and spectacular views of the Himalayan peaks, the city offers a perfect blend of adventure and peace. Overnight stay at a deluxe resort in Pokhara.

Day 7: Pokhara full day sightseeing

Begin your day with a visit to Bindabasini Temple, one of the oldest and most revered Hindu temples in Pokhara. Dedicated to Goddess Durga, a fierce manifestation of Bhagwati, the temple holds deep religious significance for local devotees. Located near Pokhara’s Old Bazaar, this white pagoda-style temple is a spiritual hub where locals gather daily for worship, often offering animal sacrifices as part of traditional rituals. Visitors may also have the chance to witness a Hindu wedding ceremony taking place within the temple grounds. Return to the hotel for breakfast.

Later, set out on a half-day sightseeing tour to the World Peace Pagoda, a serene Buddhist stupa built as a symbol of global harmony. Constructed under the guidance of Nichidatsu Fujii, a Japanese monk and follower of Mahatma Gandhi, the Peace Pagoda stands high on a ridge above Phewa Lake, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna mountain range and the shimmering lake below. Accessible by trail or boat, the pagoda is a peaceful place for reflection, welcoming visitors of all backgrounds and beliefs. After taking in the views, hike down to Lakeside (approx. 4 km / 1.5 hours), descending through scenic trails.

Then enjoy a boat ride across Phewa Lake, including a stop at the Barahi Temple, a two-storied pagoda-style temple located on an island in the lake. Phewa Lake is the heart of Pokhara—tranquil, vast, and surrounded by natural beauty. It’s the largest and most scenic of Pokhara’s lakes, perfect for a relaxing one-hour boat ride. Afterwards, you can explore the nearby Lakeside Market, a lively area filled with shops, cafés, and souvenirs. In the afternoon, enjoy free time for personal activities or relaxation. Return to the hotel after dinner. Overnight at your hotel in Pokhara.

Day 8: Pokhara to Kathmandu

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, then proceed to Pokhara Airport for your 30-minute flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. Afternoon is free to rest or explore at your leisure. Overnight stay at a mountain lodge in Kathmandu.

Day 9: Kathmandu

For those seeking a truly unforgettable adventure, you may choose to embark on an optional Mountain Flight experience.

Chartered Helicopter to Everest – USD 5,500 per helicopter (max. 5 passengers)
On Day 9, enjoy a breathtaking helicopter flight towards Mount Everest, with a brief stop at a mountain resort for a Champagne breakfast while gazing at the world’s tallest peak and the surrounding Himalayan range. The experience includes a 45-minute flight to Lukla, followed by 12–15 minutes flying towards Everest, and 30 minutes on the ground for breakfast with spectacular views before flying back to Kathmandu.

Alternative Option: Annapurna Helicopter Tour – USD 1,500 per helicopter (max. 4 passengers)
For a more economical yet stunning alternative, choose a chartered helicopter flight over the Annapurna Himalayas, available on Day 7 or 8. This includes 35–40 minutes of flying to a scenic viewpoint with a 30-minute stop to admire the awe-inspiring landscape.

Afternoon Sightseeing in Kathmandu

Visit two of the most significant spiritual landmarks in Nepal:

• Pashupatinath Temple (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
  Located on the banks of the Bagmati River, approximately 8 km from central Kathmandu, Pashupatinath is Nepal’s oldest and holiest Hindu temple, dating back to 400 A.D. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Pashupati, the Lord of Animals. The site is an important pilgrimage destination, and only Hindus are permitted inside the main temple complex. The surrounding area is also an important site for observing Hindu cremation rituals and spiritual traditions.

• Boudhanath Stupa (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
  One of the largest and most significant Buddhist stupas in the world, Boudhanath is a magnet for Tibetan Buddhist pilgrims and visitors alike. Built in the 14th century, the stupa represents the path to enlightenment through its symbolic architecture. Surrounded by 108 images of the Dhyani Buddha Amitabha, prayer wheels, and monasteries of the four major Tibetan Buddhist sects (Nyingma-pa, Kagyu-pa, Sakya-pa, and Gelug-pa), the stupa is a place of deep spiritual energy. You can walk the kora (circumambulation) alongside locals spinning prayer wheels and soaking in the peaceful ambiance.

Evening Farewell Dinner

Enjoy some free time before gathering for a farewell dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant. Delight in an array of authentic Nepalese dishes, accompanied by live folk music and cultural performances representing Nepal’s diverse ethnic heritage. Experience the warmth of Nepali hospitality through dance, costume, and cuisine. Overnight stay at your hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 10: Farewell

As your journey comes to an end, we sincerely hope you enjoyed every moment of your time in Nepal with us.