Depart for Nepal
Welcome to Nepal! Arrive in dynamic Kathmandu, Nepal, "The Roof of the World." Upon arrival, you'll be welcomed with a traditional flower garland. Transfer to the hotel with time to relax after your journey and acclimate to the new time zone
Overnight: Kathmandu
In the morning, at approximately 8 AM join your Tour Manager for an orientation meeting. After, visit Bungamati, the hometown of the deity Machhindranath, regarded as the patron of the valley. Then, on to Khokana, known for its production of rich mustard oil since ancient times. Continue to Tibetan Refugee Camp, also known as The Jawalakhel Handicraft Center, a pioneer of Tibetan carpet industry in Nepal and watch craftsmen at work. Next, drive to the ancient city of Patan known as the "City of Fine Arts." Your tour begins at the main square, filled with breathtaking Hindu temples and striking Buddhist monuments. View the old Royal Palace, dominating all others in grace and grandeur and the 16th century stone Krishna Mandir, with its 21 pinnacles dedicated to Lord Krishna. Other landmarks include the Golden Temple, and the terracotta temple of Mahabouddha. Tonight, dinner is at a local restaurant
Overnight: Kathmandu
Join the optional Mt Everest flightseeing and enjoy an hour of spectacular scenery over Mt Everest, during an early morning flight. Begin the day with a visit to Neydo Tashi Choeling Monastery, located in the southwest corner of the Kathmandu Valley, amidst the most scenic area. There are around 200 monks that live and study here. Time for some meditation before a city tour of Kathmandu, capital of Nepal. Visit Durbar Square, an amazing cluster of ancient temples and palaces epitomizing the religious and cultural life of the people. Stop at sprawling Hanuman Dhoka, ancient palace of Nepalese Royalty and the Temple of Kumari, home to Nepal's most important living goddess. See the stone carved statue of ferocious Kal Bhairav, a colorful memorial to the Hindu God of destruction, followed by a view of the magnificent Temple of the Goddess Taleju. Later continue to Swayambhunath, a 2,000-years old Buddhist stupa, celebrated as the oldest Buddhist shrine in the world, with its lofty copper spires adorned with fluttering prayer flags. This majestic ancient structure crowns the hilltop overlooking the Kathmandu Valley - the four sides painted with the compassionate eyes of Buddha. Swayambhunath is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Nepal, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tonight, do not miss out on the opportunity to partake in the optional dinner of traditional Nepalese cuisine
Optional: Mount Everest Flightseeing (AM)
Optional: Traditional Nepalese Dinner (PM)
Overnight: Kathmandu
After breakfast, board a short flight to Chitwan. Arrive at your hotel and meet your naturalist guide for a refreshing drink and briefing about the park and the many different activities available during your stay. Time to settle in and have lunch before this afternoon's very special adventure. Visit to an ethnic Tharu Village on ox- cart, where you will visit the homes of some of the indigenous people. Afterward, return to your hotel. Share stories of today's adventure during dinner
Overnight: Chitwan
Begin the day with a ride on a traditional dug-out canoe on the Rapti River. Chance to see aquatic birds and other animals along the river banks. Arrive at the Crocodile Breeding Center to see endangered Gangetic crocodiles. This decade-long conservation program has been a great success in releasing endangered species of Gharials and Mugars crocodiles back in the wild. Then, embark on a Jeep Safari that penetrates the dense grasslands to view wildlife in their natural habitat. After lunch, go on a jungle walk with a trained naturalist guide that introduces you to some of the wildlife and the various species of birds. Tonight, have dinner at the hotel's restaurant
Overnight: Chitwan
Depart Chitwan this morning and travel to the hilltop settlement of Bandipur, one of Nepal's most charming towns. Once an important stop on the trade route to Tibet, the beautifully preserved village is a living museum of Newari culture. Check into the hotel, and begin your exploration of Bandipur, boasting a glorious 18th century Newari architecture. Walk along the main street lined with traditional row houses, where time seems to have stood still. Visit temples and interact with the locals in order to understand their culture. Dinner at the hotel, caps a fascinating day of discovery
Overnight: Bandipur
After breakfast, drive to scenic Pokhara, the second largest city in Nepal and home to three of the highest mountains in the world. Visit the Gurkha Museum, showcasing the history of Gurkha troops, which were part of the British Army for over 200 years. Stroll through the galleries and view displays including guns, uniforms, photographs, medals and the famous Gurkha knives. Then on to Seti Gandaki River, that flows throughout the city and admire the Seto Gandaki Gorge. Relax during a cruise around serene Phewa Lake, the second largest lake in Nepal and marvel at the stunning views of Annapurna Range. The rest of the day is at leisure in Pokhara
Overnight: Pokhara
Early morning visit to Sarangkot, for panoramic views of the Himalayas (weather permitting). After breakfast, visit the International Mountain Museum. View the many exhibits focused on technique, equipment, and materials for hiking, of great interest in a country that is dominated by hikers and trekkers. The museum is in a perfect location, surrounded by the stunning Annapurna Mountain range. Then, explore one of the Pokhara Valley's natural wonders cascading Devi's Falls, (Hell's Falls) which drops out of sight and is hidden in an underground gorge. Following lunch at a local restaurant spend the balance of the day at leisure
Overnight: Pokhara
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, head to the World Heritage Site of Pashupatinath, to view one of the most sacred Hindu shrines in the world. On the banks of the holy Bagmati River, this temple is renowned for its beautiful architecture along with its cremation platforms spread along the river. View throngs of devotees meditating and praying on the steps throughout this sacred temple. Continue to the imposing Boudhanath Stupa, also called Khasti Chaitya, the largest stupa of its kind in the world. The unique aspect of this great Buddhist monument, dominating the skyline in the area, is that it's set in the octagonal Mandala design. After lunch at a local restaurant, travel to Nagarkot. Along the way, visit the medieval city of Bhaktapur, called the "City of Devotees," a UNESCO World Heritage Site, lined with palaces, temples, statues and squares connected by a maze of pedestrianized streets. The 14th century Dattatreya Temple and the world-famous Peacock Window at Tachapal keep visitors spellbound. Marvel at the intricately carved deities of the richly molded Golden Gate and enter the Palace of Fifty-Five Windows with its exquisite wood carvings. See the Lion's Gate with its guarding statues, Nyatapola, the five-storied temple in Taumadhi Square and the astonishing Bhairab Temple, dedicated to Lord Buddha. Then, visit the Pottery Center where you watch a demonstration of this fine craft by skilled potters. Later, drive to Nagarkot village, boasting stunning views of the Kathmandu Valley. Arrive at your hotel in time for dinner
Overnight: Nagarkot
Rise early this morning to observe the sunrise over the majestic Himalayas (weather permitting). After breakfast, embark on a tour of scenic Nagarkot, in the midst of snow-capped mountains. Walk around the village with its Buddhist temples and monasteries. Observe first-hand how everyday life begins in this Nepalese town from prayer rituals to market shopping. You will have a chance to interact with the local people and learn about the culture. Tonight, at dinner, bid a fond farewell to your Tour Manager with whom you shared this extraordinary journey in Nepal
Overnight: Nagarkot
Transfer to the airport in Kathmandu for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast