Kathmandu - 1 Night
Day 1 - Arrive in Kathmandu
You will be met and transferred from the airport to your hotel. Situated between India and Tibet, the Kingdom of Nepal is the country of Mount Everest, known as the Shangri La of the East. Kathmandu is the capital and largest city of Nepal and is rich with temples. Its festivals exceed the number of days in a year. The valley has seven sites that have been enlisted in cultural World Heritage Site list. The city uniquely blends culture with the modern world - it is the administrative capital of the country but yet is a treasure cove of history. This evening you have the option to explore Thamel, a colourful mixture of craft shops, boutique cafes, trekking gear, and rainbow prayer flags. Its clean narrow streets are full of mushrooming lodges and budget hotels. At night, Thamel is a twinkling mass of coloured lights, paper lanterns and neon restaurant signs.
Day 1 - Arrive in Kathmandu
You will be met and transferred from the airport to your hotel. Situated between India and Tibet, the Kingdom of Nepal is the country of Mount Everest, known as the Shangri La of the East. Kathmandu is the capital and largest city of Nepal and is rich with temples. Its festivals exceed the number of days in a year. The valley has seven sites that have been enlisted in cultural World Heritage Site list. The city uniquely blends culture with the modern world - it is the administrative capital of the country but yet is a treasure cove of history. This evening you have the option to explore Thamel, a colourful mixture of craft shops, boutique cafes, trekking gear, and rainbow prayer flags. Its clean narrow streets are full of mushrooming lodges and budget hotels. At night, Thamel is a twinkling mass of coloured lights, paper lanterns and neon restaurant signs.
Chitwan - 2 Nights
Day 2 - Arrive in Chitwan
Early this morning, drive to Chitwan (approximately 6 hours). Chitwan is Nepal's first national park, established in 1962 by the late King Mahendra, as a rhinoceros preserve. Prior to this, Chitwan was the venue for many a grand hunt to which the royalty of Europe, India and the top brass of the British Raj were invited. The Royal Chitwan National Park has been praised as being one of the most visually spectacular and animal rich wildlife sanctuaries in Asia. Arrive and proceed to your resort where the rest of the day is at leisure.
Day 3 - Chitwan
After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a morning Elephant Safari. This afternoon go on a canoe ride to Crocodile (Ghadiyal) breeding centre and go for a walk through the jungle. This evening you can enjoy a Tharu cultural dance.
Day 2 - Arrive in Chitwan
Early this morning, drive to Chitwan (approximately 6 hours). Chitwan is Nepal's first national park, established in 1962 by the late King Mahendra, as a rhinoceros preserve. Prior to this, Chitwan was the venue for many a grand hunt to which the royalty of Europe, India and the top brass of the British Raj were invited. The Royal Chitwan National Park has been praised as being one of the most visually spectacular and animal rich wildlife sanctuaries in Asia. Arrive and proceed to your resort where the rest of the day is at leisure.
Day 3 - Chitwan
After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a morning Elephant Safari. This afternoon go on a canoe ride to Crocodile (Ghadiyal) breeding centre and go for a walk through the jungle. This evening you can enjoy a Tharu cultural dance.
Lumbini - 1 Night
Day 4 - Arrive in Lumbini
The birthplace of Budha. Visit Maya Devi Temple. Visit other monasteries in Lumbini garden at your leisure.
Day 4 - Arrive in Lumbini
The birthplace of Budha. Visit Maya Devi Temple. Visit other monasteries in Lumbini garden at your leisure.
Pokhara - 2 Nights
Day 5 - Arrive in Pokhara
This morning, drive to the scenic town of Pokhara (approximately 5 hrs). Pokhara is a remarkable place of natural beauty with stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks. Situated at an altitude of 900m, the town is known as a center of adventure as the base point for many treks. The serenity of lakes creates a peaceful ambience. Arrive and proceed to your resort where the rest of the day is at leisure.
Day 6 - Pokhara
The day is at leisure to relax, shop and enjoy the town. You can go for a walk or the more daring can embark on one of the adventure activities available
Day 7 - Return home
Today you will be met and transferred from your hotel to the airport.
Day 5 - Arrive in Pokhara
This morning, drive to the scenic town of Pokhara (approximately 5 hrs). Pokhara is a remarkable place of natural beauty with stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks. Situated at an altitude of 900m, the town is known as a center of adventure as the base point for many treks. The serenity of lakes creates a peaceful ambience. Arrive and proceed to your resort where the rest of the day is at leisure.
Day 6 - Pokhara
The day is at leisure to relax, shop and enjoy the town. You can go for a walk or the more daring can embark on one of the adventure activities available
Day 7 - Return home
Today you will be met and transferred from your hotel to the airport.
- Embark on a morning Elephant Safari
- The Boudhanath Yoga Experience in Nepal
- Hike to Dhampus. Experience the local life with magnificent
view of Himalayas - Everest base camp Landing Helicopter Tour
- Nagarkot Sunrise View and Day Hiking from Kathmandu
- Explore Entire Pokhara (
Sarangkot - Stupa - Begnas Lake - Fewa Lake -Water fall) - City tour of Bhaktapur and Patan Durbar Square
- Kayaking on the Trishuli River
Overview of Nepal
Nepal sits in a region regarded as the uppermost place on earth. Way up in a land of majestic Himalayan scenery, it contains eight of the world's ten highest mountains, including Mt Everest. It's also known as a nation of good-natured and accommodating people.
From the hot Indian plains and steamy southern Tarai lowlands, the terrain crosses the Kathmandu Valley and rises to the frozen heights of the Himalayan peaks towards the Tibetan plateau known as the 'Roof of the World'.
Situated between India and Tibet, its position consequently reflected in the diverse range of ethnic groups, customs, and traditions that fill the wonderfully varied geography. Numerous colourful communities populate the land, as well as its animated cities, villages, and towns.
Life in Nepal revolves around an intricate intermingling of ancient Hindu and Buddhist religious rituals. Throughout the year, numerous festivals celebrate a diversity of religious and tribal traditions.
The capital of Kathmandu brings an assortment of these different societies together into a vibrant collection of brilliant sights and exotic smells, with modern shops co-existing with street sellers, while pyramidal Buddhist temples, holy Sadhus of the Hindu faith and medieval palace squares fill the urban landscape.
Nepal boasts many attractions. But the essence of the country is its smiling, friendly people with their heartfelt palm-pressed greetings. With its inspiring scenery, this beguiling kingdom is a place where one visit is usually not enough to satisfy the captivated traveller.
Nepal sits in a region regarded as the uppermost place on earth. Way up in a land of majestic Himalayan scenery, it contains eight of the world's ten highest mountains, including Mt Everest. It's also known as a nation of good-natured and accommodating people.
From the hot Indian plains and steamy southern Tarai lowlands, the terrain crosses the Kathmandu Valley and rises to the frozen heights of the Himalayan peaks towards the Tibetan plateau known as the 'Roof of the World'.
Situated between India and Tibet, its position consequently reflected in the diverse range of ethnic groups, customs, and traditions that fill the wonderfully varied geography. Numerous colourful communities populate the land, as well as its animated cities, villages, and towns.
Life in Nepal revolves around an intricate intermingling of ancient Hindu and Buddhist religious rituals. Throughout the year, numerous festivals celebrate a diversity of religious and tribal traditions.
The capital of Kathmandu brings an assortment of these different societies together into a vibrant collection of brilliant sights and exotic smells, with modern shops co-existing with street sellers, while pyramidal Buddhist temples, holy Sadhus of the Hindu faith and medieval palace squares fill the urban landscape.
Nepal boasts many attractions. But the essence of the country is its smiling, friendly people with their heartfelt palm-pressed greetings. With its inspiring scenery, this beguiling kingdom is a place where one visit is usually not enough to satisfy the captivated traveller.
Overview of Kathmandu
Presided over by snowy mountains, the Kathmandu Valley sits surrounded by verdant agricultural hills scattered with traditional villages and brick houses. Rich in ancient holy temples and shrines for both Buddhists and Hindus, the area reflects the great wealth of culture and tradition in Nepal.
Most of Nepal's ethnic groups are represented in the Valley, particularly in Kathmandu itself. But it is the Newars who are the original inhabitants, responsible for much of the splendid art and architecture in the cities.
The Kathmandu Valley is the cultural, political, and commercial centre of Nepal and encompasses three cities: Kathmandu, the capital; Patan, which has been enveloped by the growing Kathmandu outskirts; and the medieval city of Bhaktapur.
For the unprepared visitor, the capital city of Kathmandu can trigger a sensory overload. It's a heavingcity of intriguing but unpleasant smells, incessant noise and pollution, and sights that etch themselves on the memory.
Cows wander the streets of the old city, while narrow alleyways overflow with spices, vegetables, and handicraft shops. Throngs of people thread their way along bustling cobblestone streets lined with structures from an ancient architectural heritage, leading onto open squares surrounded by temples.
The largest city in Nepal and the nation's historical centre, Kathmandu throws together a blend of the country's varied population and boasts a distinctive, age-old religious influence visible in the daily life of its inhabitants.
Many people choose to stay outside Kathmandu in one of the Valley towns or mountain resorts, restricting their visits to day trips. Otherwise, they base themselves in the tourist-orientated Thamel district of the city, offering modern bakeries, smart hotels, and upmarket restaurants.
Presided over by snowy mountains, the Kathmandu Valley sits surrounded by verdant agricultural hills scattered with traditional villages and brick houses. Rich in ancient holy temples and shrines for both Buddhists and Hindus, the area reflects the great wealth of culture and tradition in Nepal.
Most of Nepal's ethnic groups are represented in the Valley, particularly in Kathmandu itself. But it is the Newars who are the original inhabitants, responsible for much of the splendid art and architecture in the cities.
The Kathmandu Valley is the cultural, political, and commercial centre of Nepal and encompasses three cities: Kathmandu, the capital; Patan, which has been enveloped by the growing Kathmandu outskirts; and the medieval city of Bhaktapur.
For the unprepared visitor, the capital city of Kathmandu can trigger a sensory overload. It's a heavingcity of intriguing but unpleasant smells, incessant noise and pollution, and sights that etch themselves on the memory.
Cows wander the streets of the old city, while narrow alleyways overflow with spices, vegetables, and handicraft shops. Throngs of people thread their way along bustling cobblestone streets lined with structures from an ancient architectural heritage, leading onto open squares surrounded by temples.
The largest city in Nepal and the nation's historical centre, Kathmandu throws together a blend of the country's varied population and boasts a distinctive, age-old religious influence visible in the daily life of its inhabitants.
Many people choose to stay outside Kathmandu in one of the Valley towns or mountain resorts, restricting their visits to day trips. Otherwise, they base themselves in the tourist-orientated Thamel district of the city, offering modern bakeries, smart hotels, and upmarket restaurants.
Overview of Pokhara
Pokhara is the third largest city in Nepal, serving as the gateway to the Annapurna region. Known more for beautiful lakeside settings and panoramas of distant Himalayan peaks than its historical sights and culture, it's nevertheless a pleasant urban destination.
Phewa Lake is the second largest lake in Nepal. It's a picture of serene beauty as brightly painted wooden boats drift across the reflections of icy summits. It has become a popular base for some of the best treks in Nepal, as well as the main centre for white water rafting and kayaking trips.
Pokhara divides into two parts: the bazaar and the lakeside. The actual town or bazaar of Pokhara is set back from the lake, while the lakeside has become the main tourist and entertainment zone, brimming with bakeries, international restaurants, shops, souvenir and craft stalls, bookshops, hotels, and guesthouses.
The city provides a peaceful place to relax before or after tackling the mountains or the rivers, and there are plenty of excellent shops supplying the necessary equipment for trekking expeditions. The city is a favourite for visitors to Nepal as a relaxing break from the temples, noise, and bustle of the Kathmandu Valley.
There are ample opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing, or lazing on the sunny lakeshore before the magnificent backdrop of some of the highest mountains on earth. Begnas Lak is quieter, cleaner, and more peaceful than the larger Phewa Lake.
Pokhara is a short way out of town and has a few hotels on its banks. Buses leave for Pokhara from Kathmandu every 15 minutes or so, and it is easy to get around once there. If you don't want to walk, then hiring a bicycle or a scooter is a fun option.
Customs in Nepal
Nepal has numerous cultural practices that may be unusual for foreigners. In the tourist areas, there is a high degree of tolerance towards visitors. But away from these places, foreigners should be sensitive to local customs. Never accept, offer, or eat anything with the left hand.
Do not eat from someone else's plate or offer food from one's own. Women should dress conservatively and cover up as much as possible. Permission should be sought before taking photographs, particularly at religious sites. Public displays of affection between men and women are frowned upon.
Tipping in Nepal
Restaurants and hotels may add 10 percent to bills, in which case no further tip is required. Otherwise, a 10 percent tip is customary in places that cater to tourists. It is customary to tip guides and porters on treks. Elsewhere, gratuities are not expected but always appreciated
Pokhara is the third largest city in Nepal, serving as the gateway to the Annapurna region. Known more for beautiful lakeside settings and panoramas of distant Himalayan peaks than its historical sights and culture, it's nevertheless a pleasant urban destination.
Phewa Lake is the second largest lake in Nepal. It's a picture of serene beauty as brightly painted wooden boats drift across the reflections of icy summits. It has become a popular base for some of the best treks in Nepal, as well as the main centre for white water rafting and kayaking trips.
Pokhara divides into two parts: the bazaar and the lakeside. The actual town or bazaar of Pokhara is set back from the lake, while the lakeside has become the main tourist and entertainment zone, brimming with bakeries, international restaurants, shops, souvenir and craft stalls, bookshops, hotels, and guesthouses.
The city provides a peaceful place to relax before or after tackling the mountains or the rivers, and there are plenty of excellent shops supplying the necessary equipment for trekking expeditions. The city is a favourite for visitors to Nepal as a relaxing break from the temples, noise, and bustle of the Kathmandu Valley.
There are ample opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing, or lazing on the sunny lakeshore before the magnificent backdrop of some of the highest mountains on earth. Begnas Lak is quieter, cleaner, and more peaceful than the larger Phewa Lake.
Pokhara is a short way out of town and has a few hotels on its banks. Buses leave for Pokhara from Kathmandu every 15 minutes or so, and it is easy to get around once there. If you don't want to walk, then hiring a bicycle or a scooter is a fun option.
Customs in Nepal
Nepal has numerous cultural practices that may be unusual for foreigners. In the tourist areas, there is a high degree of tolerance towards visitors. But away from these places, foreigners should be sensitive to local customs. Never accept, offer, or eat anything with the left hand.
Do not eat from someone else's plate or offer food from one's own. Women should dress conservatively and cover up as much as possible. Permission should be sought before taking photographs, particularly at religious sites. Public displays of affection between men and women are frowned upon.
Tipping in Nepal
Restaurants and hotels may add 10 percent to bills, in which case no further tip is required. Otherwise, a 10 percent tip is customary in places that cater to tourists. It is customary to tip guides and porters on treks. Elsewhere, gratuities are not expected but always appreciated
Must Eats
Dal bhat - The most common food found in Nepal is dhal bat which is a soup made of lentils, various spices and rice. A variation of this dish involves placing vegetables that have been fried with spices (tarki) on top of the dhal bat.
Momo - The most common snack food found in Nepal is known locally as momo. A momo is a meat dumpling that is served with spicy soup as well as a tomato based dip.
Thukpa - Thukpa is a Tibetan noodle soup, which originated in the eastern part of Tibet. Amdo thukpa (especially thenthuk) is a famous variant among Tibetan people and himalayan people of Nepal. The dish became popular in various parts of Nepal, Bhutan, and the states of Sikkim, Assam, Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh in northeast India. It is also popular in the Ladakh region and the state of Himachal Pradesh. The food is widely available in these regions.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thukpa
Food
The cuisine of Nepal is known worldwide for the high nutritional value it offers as well as for the taste. Spices like ginger, garlic, coriander, pepper, cumin, chili, cilantro and mustard oil are common and most recipes are quick to cook. Throughout Nepal there is a wide variety of Chinese and Japanese fast food restaurants available.
Other popular dishes include:
Gundrock-Dheedo: a sugar-free dish made of wheat, maize and dried green vegetables.
Masu: this dish involves a spiced or curried meat (can be chicken, mutton, buffalo or pork) which is served with gravy.
Chatamari: this is often referred to as Newari pizza because it is flat bread or rice crepe made by the Newars people from the Kathmandu Valley. It can be eaten with or without topping, with traditional toppings including meat, eggs, vegetable and even sugar.
Vegetable Pulao: also known as fried Nepali rice, the rice in this dish is seasoned with turmeric and cumin and has become a very popular way of serving rice at parties.
Drink
Regarding drinks in Nepal, it is advisable to stick with bottled water rather than tap water. Tongba is a special Limbu cultural drink. It is a homemade wine that is traditionally served warm which makes it a popular choice during the winter. Another popular option is Rakshi which is a millet based alcoholic drink that is considered very important in religious rituals and has become a staple at social events.
Dal bhat - The most common food found in Nepal is dhal bat which is a soup made of lentils, various spices and rice. A variation of this dish involves placing vegetables that have been fried with spices (tarki) on top of the dhal bat.
Momo - The most common snack food found in Nepal is known locally as momo. A momo is a meat dumpling that is served with spicy soup as well as a tomato based dip.
Thukpa - Thukpa is a Tibetan noodle soup, which originated in the eastern part of Tibet. Amdo thukpa (especially thenthuk) is a famous variant among Tibetan people and himalayan people of Nepal. The dish became popular in various parts of Nepal, Bhutan, and the states of Sikkim, Assam, Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh in northeast India. It is also popular in the Ladakh region and the state of Himachal Pradesh. The food is widely available in these regions.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thukpa
Food
The cuisine of Nepal is known worldwide for the high nutritional value it offers as well as for the taste. Spices like ginger, garlic, coriander, pepper, cumin, chili, cilantro and mustard oil are common and most recipes are quick to cook. Throughout Nepal there is a wide variety of Chinese and Japanese fast food restaurants available.
Other popular dishes include:
Gundrock-Dheedo: a sugar-free dish made of wheat, maize and dried green vegetables.
Masu: this dish involves a spiced or curried meat (can be chicken, mutton, buffalo or pork) which is served with gravy.
Chatamari: this is often referred to as Newari pizza because it is flat bread or rice crepe made by the Newars people from the Kathmandu Valley. It can be eaten with or without topping, with traditional toppings including meat, eggs, vegetable and even sugar.
Vegetable Pulao: also known as fried Nepali rice, the rice in this dish is seasoned with turmeric and cumin and has become a very popular way of serving rice at parties.
Drink
Regarding drinks in Nepal, it is advisable to stick with bottled water rather than tap water. Tongba is a special Limbu cultural drink. It is a homemade wine that is traditionally served warm which makes it a popular choice during the winter. Another popular option is Rakshi which is a millet based alcoholic drink that is considered very important in religious rituals and has become a staple at social events.
