A TASTE OF NEPAL
An 11 Day Tour
KATHMANDU – POKHARA – CHITWAN NATIONAL PARK – KATHMANDU
Discover the highlights of Nepal on an encompassing 11-day itinerary designed the unveil the magic of the wonderful Himalayan Kingdom. Explore the historic and spiritual districts of the Kathmandu Valley and hike in the world-renowned trails in the foothills of the Himalayas. See how the many cultures of Nepal intertwine throughout your journey with many visits included to sacred sites, rural villages, and remote communities who live amongst the primeval tiger-inhabited jungle terrain of Chitwan National Park.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:
- Explore the captivating historic durbars of the Kathmandu Valley
- Embark on a scenic boat cruise on Lake Phewa in idyllic Pokhara
- Hike in the valleys shadowed by the Annapurna Mountain Range
- Spot endangered one-horned Rhinoceros in the verdant Chitwan National Park
ITINERARY OVERVIEW
| Day | Activity | Location | Deluxe Accommodation | Luxury Accommodation |
| Day 1 | Arrive in Nepal’s charming capital and check into your centrally located hotel. The afternoon is spent familiarising yourself with the city on a short walking tour of the wonderfully chaotic Durbar Square and the nearby UNESCO world heritage site of Swayambhunath. The Durbar Square will provide your first glimpse of the cultural and artistic side of Nepal, as you wander through its labyrinth of narrow streets and open areas, observing the myriad of temples and engaging with the characterful locals. Swayambhunath is believed to have been established more than 2,500 years, the most sacred pilgrimage site in the country. | Kathmandu | Kantipur Temple House | Dwarika’s Kathmandu |
| Day 2 |
Today head into the Kathmandu Valley to discover the medieval districts of Bhaktapur and Patan, both of which provide a remarkable contrast in style to Kathmandu. Begin in Bhaktapur’s own Durbar Square, where the Kings of the Malla dynasty lived until the mid-18th century, leaving behind some of the finest examples of Newari architecture in the country. Take in the views at the highest temple in the Valley at Nyatapola and visit a paper making factory before travelling the short distance to Patan. Characterised by its many Pagoda style temples, Patan is a serene town epitomising Nepal’s spiritual ambience. Stroll through the Durbar Square and explore the bustling bazaars on a gently paced afternoon tour. This evening, dine with a local family in Patan and learn about Newari cuisine. |
Kathmandu | Kantipur Temple House | Dwarika’s Kathmandu |
| Day 3 |
Spend a spiritual morning at two of Nepal’s most sacred religious sites. Attend the morning prayers at Bouddhnath, one of the largest Buddhist Stupas in the world, observing the procession of monks carrying butter lamps and prayer wheels. Continue to Pasupatinath, idyllically located on the banks of the River Baghmati. A holy Hindu shrine, this is the oldest Hindu temple in Nepal and draws thousands of pilgrims from around the world to pay tribute to the deity of Shiva. The afternoon is at leisure to explore the bazaars and enjoy the gems of Kathmandu at your own pace. |
Kathmandu | Kantipur Temple House | Dwarika’s Kathmandu |
| Day 4 | A full day drive is required today to reach Pokhara. The views en-route though are spectacular as you observe how urban landscapes transfigure into rural plains and then mountainous verdant valleys. Pokhara itself is a beautiful destination and an enchanting town perched scenically on the idyllic Phewa Lake in the shadows of the majestic Himalayas. Check-into your hotel and enjoy an evening at leisure strolling through Pokhara’s peaceful streets. | Pokhara | Temple Tree Resort & Spa | The Pavilions Himalayas |
| Day 5 | Embark on a guided tour of Pokhara beginning with a drive to the summit of the World Peace Stupa which offers spectacular views of the Annapurna Range and of Pokhara. Descend on foot, hiking through the dense forest clad slopes and via a Tibetan Refugee Camp and several villages until you reach the banks of the enchanting Phewa Lake. Enjoy a boat ride on it’s calm waters and visit the island temple in its centre. | Pokhara | Temple Tree Resort & Spa | The Pavilions Himalayas |
| Day 6 |
This morning a 25-minute drive will take you to the town of Milan Chowk, the starting point of a gentle trek through chestnut forests towards Astam. The views along the way are wonderful with panoramic vistas of the Hemja and Mardi valleys throughout and a great insight into rural life in Nepal can be attained as you pass through many villages. The best views are reserved to Astam though, where 360-degree uninterrupted views of the Annapurna range await. Return to the Pokhara to enjoy your last evening in this remarkable destination at leisure. |
Pokhara | Temple Tree Resort & Spa | The Pavilions Himalayas |
| Days 7 – 9 | Travel to the Chitwan National Park, a remarkable ecosystem situated in the subtropical inner Terai lowlands in central Nepal. More than 43 species of mammals can be found in the park although many visitors come to see the endangered one-horned Rhinoceros and Tigers in their native habitat. Whilst the first day is largely spent travelling and meeting your expert naturalists, two full days are left for immersive jungle experiences. Take 4×4 safaris for close wildlife encounters and embark on boat safaris to spot water dwelling species. A visit to a local Tharu ethnic village is also afforded to engage with the communities who thrive within the boundaries of the park. | Chitwan National Park | Barahi Jungle Lodge | Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge |
| Day 10 | Return to Kathmandu for one final night in the capital. | Kathmandu | Kantipur Temple House | Dwarika’s Kathmandu |
| Day 11 | This morning check out of your hotel and transfer to the airport for your return flight home. |
Prices for the Deluxe Hotel version start from £1725.00 per person and from £2325.00 for the luxury upgrade.
Price do not include international flights.
by Applenet 