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Kathmandu Stupa

Nepal Explorer

Example 8 Day Tour
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Take an 8-day trip exploring the Kathmandu valley, one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the world. Discover the history, art, culture, and religious traditions at the center of Nepal. The city is considered the gateway to the Nepalese Himalayas and is home to several world heritage sites like the temple of Pashupatinath, the Stupas of Swyambhunath, Boudhanath, and the Kathmandu Durbar Square. Visit the pristine mountains and winding roads of Chitwan National Park and watch for a diverse array of wildlife. 
Prayer WheelsKathmandu SquarePatan Durbar SquarePashupatinath TempleInside the TempleSwayambhunath StupaElephant Ride in the ParkWild RhinocerosWildlife Safari TourKathmandu Stupa
Highlights
  • Visit Kathmandu, the temple city and capital of the Kingdom of Nepal
  • Explore the famous UNESCO World Heritage sites in the city
  • Watch Buddhist Newars and their religious practices in Swayambhunath
  • Stay in a wilderness camp in Chitwan National Park
  • Hike to the Peace Stupa and ride a boat on Phewa Lake
Places Visited
Activity Level: Relaxed
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu, Nepal

On your arrival at the international airport in Kathmandu and after clearing customs & immigration, a representative will escort you to your hotel. 

Kathmandu is the capital and the most populous city of Nepal and is located in the Kathmandu Valley, a large valley in the high plateaus of central Nepal. The city is one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the world, founded in the 2nd century CE. The valley was historically called the "Nepal Mandala" and has been the home of the Newar people, a cosmopolitan urban civilization in the Himalayan foothills. The Kathmandu valley (1450 M) is famous for its cultural heritage, scenic beauty, beautiful countryside, ethnic settlements, and pilgrimages to the holiest shrines for Hindus and Buddhists. With seven World Heritage Sites declared by UNESCO in the Kathmandu valley, this city is a cultural hub and the center of various multi-attractions for all Nepal visitors.

In the afternoon, take a drive to Boudhanath Stupa, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This Stupa is a spiritual home to the Tibetan exile community in Nepal. On the original trade route to Lhasa, it is one of the world's largest and oldest Buddhist stupas. Apart from its religious interest, the life around the Stupa is colorful, unique, and vibrant, and a wide array of Tibetan antiques, brocades, and jewelry.

After walking around the Stupa, embark towards Shechen Monastery for evening prayers, located near the Stupa in the alleys. This beautiful Monastery is famous for its architecture, founded by the late Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche. Most Buddhist monasteries welcome visitors and entering these atmospheric buildings can be a powerful and evocative experience. During the evening prayers, the lamas (high-ranking Tibetan Buddhist monks) and novices gather to chant Buddhist texts, accompanied by a cacophony of crashing cymbals, thumping drums, and booming Tibetan horns.

Day 2: Kathmandu, Nepal

After breakfast at the hotel, take a drive to Swayambhunath, one of the most respected Buddhist Stupas in the World. Set majestically high on a hill overlooking Kathmandu Valley, popularly known as the monkey temple, after the tribe of monkeys that inhabits the hills. With the symbolic all-seeing eyes of the Buddha, 17th Century frescoes help you understand why Kathmandu is a meeting point of ancient religions and cultures. 

Afterward, travel to Bhaktapur to learn more about the city's history and vibrant culture. Bhaktapur is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the Kathmandu Valley's best surviving medieval city. Meander past homes and courtyards that are ancient and revel in the sight of Hindu and Buddhist deities at every turn. Visit the Pottery Square to witness local artisans at work before taking lunch and trying your hand at a traditional local pottery.

In the late afternoon, visit the abode of the Shiva, Pashupatinath, the oldest and most holy Hindu temple in Nepal. This sacred Hindu temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, sits on the banks of the Bagmati River. The river plays a significant role in the life of the Nepalese as rituals center around this river that flows into the river Ganges. Only Hindus are allowed to enter the temple and its courtyard, while tourists can enjoy the sights and sounds of the temple from the eastern side of the river. 

Witness the magnificent Aarati, a beautiful Hindu lighting rite conducted by a Hindu priest every evening. The priests perform the Aarati by taking oil lamps, moving them in a circular motion, and dedicating their act to the Divine. This ritual allows everyone to be a part of it and creates an environment of the union of God and the devotees.

Optional Tour: A one-hour flight for a scenic Mount Everest flight using a small Twin Otter turboprop plane and a spectacular panorama of some of the world's highest peaks like Makalu, Lhotse, Gauri Shanker, and the Langtang. (Note-Mountain Flight is weather permitting)

Day 3: Chitwan National Park


Take a six-hours scenic drive through the pristine mountain and winding roads to Chitwan National Park, followed by a sumptuous lunch at the resort.

Chitwan National Park: This park has numerous lakes and streams that form lifelines for animals and enable a rich floral diversity. The Chitwan valley is characterized by tropical and subtropical forests, with Sal trees being the dominant tree species. Plants like wild ginger, wild turmeric with beautiful inflorescence, and other medicinal herbs grow in profusion, and the locals are allowed to harvest them from the community forests. The atmosphere of Chitwan is very conducive to wild orchids, with over 100 species recorded here. The grasslands are mainly located in the floodplains of the rivers and form a diverse and complex community with over 50 different types of grasses. The Kaleidoscope of different habitats and sub-eco-systems all come together to make a whole that is most favorable to supporting rich biodiversity.

Here one can find the world’s largest terrestrial mammal, a five-tonne elephant. The pygmy shrew is one of the tiniest animals, weighing only seven grams. Tigers, leopards, sloth bears, gaur, rhinos, and wild dogs are among the 68 mammals documented in Chitwan National Park. Porcupines, otters, martens, and shrews are the smaller species. The proximity of Chitwan to the Himalayas gives the park a geographical advantage, making it an ideal shelter for birds migrating both in winter and summer. Indigenous and migrant species like Great Hornbill, Painted storks, Pied Kingfishers, and Red Headed Trogon are a few of the most exotic birds seen here. Chitwan is a high-priority destination for birders as the total tally of birds recorded in the park is over 600.

Stay overnight at the lodge, and in the evening, relax and make yourself familiar with your surroundings.

Day 4: Chitwan National Park

Take part in activities at the park, including a jeep safari, jungle walk, bird-watching, river safaris, wildlife viewing, and photographing with highly experienced naturalists. Journey into the habitat of the greater one-horned rhinoceros, spotted deer, hog deer, Sambar deer, barking deer, and an abundance of flora and fauna. Get prepared for the rare sightings of a leopard, sloth bear, or even the Royal Bengal Tiger.
 

Day 5: Pokhara

After breakfast, start the scenic drive for about 5 hours to Pokhara. This picturesque lakeside town and Nepal's second most important tourist destination after Kathmandu.

Pokhara: Sub-Metropolitan City is the second-largest city of Nepal and is situated about 200 km west of the capital Kathmandu. It serves as the headquarters of the Kaski District, Gandaki Zone, and the Western Development Region. Pokhara is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Nepal. Three out of the ten highest mountains in the world — Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, and Manaslu — are situated within 30 miles (linear distance) of the city. Because of its proximity to the Annapurna mountain range, the city's northern skyline provides a close-up view of the Himalayas. The city is also a base for trekkers undertaking the Annapurna Circuit through the ACAP region of the Annapurna ranges in the Himalayas.

In the afternoon, visit the Mountain Museum, Bindybasini Temple, Tibetan Camp, Devi's fall, and the old bazaar of Pokhara.

Day 6: Pokhara

Hike to the Peace Stupa for about 2 hours, from where one can have panoramic mountain views of the Fishtail, Annapurna ranges, Manaslu, and the Phewa Lake with valley (subject to weather). Hike down through the forest and take a boat on Phewa Lake, and visit the Barahi Temple, located on a small island in the lake. 

Day 7: Kathmandu

  • Hotel
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Dinner
Transfer to the Pokhara airport for your journey to Kathmandu after breakfast. Upon arrival at Kathmandu airport, get ready for a sightseeing tour of Patan City and stroll the nooks and corners of the Patan Durbar Square and the exquisite Patan Museum, set within the restored royal palaces of the Malla Era. Enjoy the old city of Patan, which is known for its carved temples, royal courtyards, water spouts, public baths, and traditional neighborhoods. A walk through the heritage and culture of the Newari architecture and ancient urban designs. 

In the afternoon, visit Kathmandu Durbar Square, the epicenter of historic Kathmandu. Explore the ancient temples, palace squares, narrow alleyways, and architectural marvels with a guide while witnessing the local people offering libations and prayers to various gods and goddesses. At Ason, take a tour of the bright, charismatic spice market and ancient commercial center.

In the evening, transfer to Dwarika’s Hotel for a farewell 6-course Nepali Dinner at Krishnarpan Restaurant. 

Day 8: Return Home

  • 1 Breakfast
After breakfast, on-time departure transfer to the airport to board the flight for home.

Accommodations

Hotel Shanker Kathmandu

Hotel Swimming Pool Area
Hotel Interior
Hotel Shanker Kathmandu

Jungle Villa Resort

Jungle Villa Resort
Dinning Area
Jungle Villa Resort

Temple Tree Resort & Spa

Temple Tree Resort & Spa
Temple Tree Resort & Spa
Temple Tree Resort & Spa

Dates & Prices

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Included
  • 7 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 2 Dinners
  • 7 Nights Accommodations
  • 5 Days Locally Hosted Guide Service
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • English Speaking Expert Guides During the City Tour
  • Entrance Fee to Places of Visit and Monuments.
  • Hotel, Airports and Railway Assistance
Excluded
  • Gratuities
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Internal and International Airfare
  • Electronic Visa upon Entry
  • Personal Expenses (such as laundry, telephone, tipping, etc.)
  • Any Travel Insurance Fee
  • Mount Everest Flight

Map

When to Go

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Dec
Good to ideal period to travel, and many people choose to visit at this time.
Chance for unpredictable weather but with fewer visitors.

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