The recorded history of Nepal centred on the Kathmandu valley and begins with the Kirantis who are said to have ruled for many centuries beginning from the 7th or 8th Century B.C. with their famous king Yalambar who is even mentioned in the epic, “Mahabharata”. Around 300 A. D. The Lichavis arrived from northern India and overthrew the Kirantis. One of the legacies of the Lichavis is the fabulous Changu Narayan temple near Bhaktapur that dates back to the 5th Century. In early 7th Century, Amshuvarma, the first Thakuri King took over the throne from his father-in-law who was a Lichavis. The Lichavis brought art and architecture to the valley but the Golden age of creativity arrived with the Mallas who came to power around 1200A.D.
During, their 550year rule, the Mallas built an amazing number of temples and splendid palaces with picturesque squares that are lined with architecturally beautiful temples. It was also during their rule that society and the cities became well organized; religious festivals were introduced and literature, music and art were encouraged. Sadly after the death of Yaksha Malla, the valley was divided into three kingdoms: Kathmandu (Kantipur), Bhaktapur (Bhadgaon) and Patan (Lalitpur). The rivalry among these kingdoms led to the building of grand palaces and the uplifting of the arts and culture. Around this time, the Nepal as we know it today was divided into about 46 independent principalities.
One among these was the kingdom of Gorkha with the ambitious King Prithvi Narayan Shah in power who embarked on a conquering mission that led to the defeat of all the kingdoms in the valley by 1769. Instead of annexing the newly acquired states to his kingdom of Gorkha, King Prithvi Narayan Shah decided to move his capital to Kathmandu establishing the Shah dynasty which ruled unified Nepal from 1769 to 2008 when the last Shah ruler, Gyanendra relinquished his power to make way for total democracy under the rule of a Prime Minister.
Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan
Day1: Arrive in Kathmandu. Transfer to the hotel. Half Day sightseeing tour, overnight at Hotel Yak and Yeti.
Kathmandu
Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, after clearing immigration and Customs and obtaining your visa on arrival transfer to your hotel where you will check in , After a chance to freshen up , head out to begin exploring A harmonious amalgam of Hindu energy and Buddhist tranquillity, Kathmandu is synonymous with a far – flung outmost, and to this day it retains a mystical aura that may leave you feeling like you have stepped through a looking glass its narrow alleyways wind past eight World Heritage sites.
(Visit Pashupatinath and Bouddhanath)
Start with a drive to a UNESCO World Heritage site, Pashupatinath. This famous temple is locatednOn the banks of the Bagmati River. Much like the Ganges. The Bagmati River is a holy river and an auspicious place to be cremated. You may have even witness this ancient Hindu cremation ritual. The wrapped body is placed upon a mound of smouldering logs and bush. Then set alight. Hindus believe that the soul escapes through the skull, to be reborn again.
Bouddhanath
This stupa, eight kilometres east of Kathmandu city is one of the biggest in the world of its kind. It stands with four pairs of eyes in the four cardinal direction keeping watch for righteous behaviour and human prosperity. This Buddhist stupa was built by King Man Dev at the advice of Goddess Bajra jogini. It is built on an octagonal base inset with prayers wheels. The shrine is ringed by houses of Lamas or Buddhist priests.
Day 2: In Kathmandu, Day Hike from Nagarkot to Changu Narayan Temple. Half Day sightseeing tour to Bhaktapur. Overnight at Hotel Yak and Yeti:
Day Hike from Nagarkot to Changu Narayan Temple. Half Day sightseeing tour to Bhaktapur. Overnight at Hotel Yak and Yeti
Following breakfast you are met and transferred overland to Nagarkot. Start the day with a hike from Nagarkot to Changunarayan (approx.04-05 hours/8 ½ miles/13 ½ Km/ 270M of descent- walk depending on one’s pace.) At an altitude of 2175m above the sea level, Nagarkot is situated 35 km northeast of the Kathmandu city. From here one can see the majestic Mount Everest and other snow capped peaks of the Himalayas.
Nagarkot is located between Kathmandu valley in the west and Indrawati in the east. The top of Nagarkot encompasses more than 200 miles of snow capped peaks, from Annapurna in the west beyond Everest in the east. It also offers a panoramic view of the Kathmandu valley. Nagarkot is renowned international tourist destination with spectacular views of the whole Langtang range, sunrise over the mountains and sunset views. It is a popular over-night holiday destination for not just tourists but for the people of Kathmandu as well. This hike offers one to witness the villages along the trail that still exhibits countryside lifestyle of Nepal even though it is very close from the city.
The Himalayas in the backdrop provides the best possible natural settings. The first part of the hiking offers cultural encounter and the second part is more natural as the trail follows the ridge with deciduous forest. The walking is easy with gradual downhill and fairly levelled path.
Changunarayan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site; the temple of Changunarayan is dedicated to God Vishnu. The temple is a great example of Nepalese architecture. It is the oldest temple in Kathmandu valley and its existence dates back to the 4th century.
Bhaktapur
After Breakfast this morning pay a visit to the ancient royal city of Bhaktapur (formerly known as Bhadgaon), a history-soaked medieval town, which is also a UNESCO World heritage site found in the 9th century, fortified town in the Kathmandu Valley and a home of medieval art and architecture, also known as the “City of Devotees”. It is the best preserved of the three original cities of Kathmandu Valley, the other two being Kathmandu and Patan. Tread along 17th century cobbled pavements marvelling at the ancient architecture. Watch today’s bustling activity in the town square and see the Palace of Fifty-Five Windows. There are many impressive sights here including the ancient gateway, the statue of Bhuptindra Malla, and the famous Pagoda-style, five-storied temple of Nytapola-the tallest in Nepal. Bhaktapur is regarded as a showcase of “medieval “Nepalese town life and you have time to walk around and see potter’s spinning at their wheels and woodcarvers at work.
Day 3: Fly to Pokhara (Approx.25 minutes,), Half day sightseeing tour. And Hike to Peace Pagoda Temple (2 Hours) after boating in the lake Phewa. Drive back to the hotel. Overnight at Hotel Temple Tree.
Today you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight to Pokhara which takes approximately 25 minutes. Upon arrival at Pokhara, you will be received and transferred to Hotel Temple Tree.
Pokhara’s bewitching beauty has been the subject of many travel writers. Its pristine air, spectacular back drop of snowy peaks, serene lakes and surrounding greenery make it “the jewel in the Himalayas”, a place of remarkable natural beauty. With the magnificent Annapurna range forming the backdrop and the serenity of three major Lakes- Phewa, Rupa and Begnas- Pokhara is the ultimate destination for relaxation. Pokhara Valley is the end of the famous Annapurna Circuit and a gateway to some of the most famous long – distance treks in Nepal. It also offers plenty of rewarding short walks and day trips suitable for children and weary trekkers. It is the second largest city in Nepal and sits high on the list of “must visit” places in Nepal. Pokhara is the home for dense forests, gushing rivers, lucid lakes and the world famous view of the Himalayas Meet your guide and head out to explore, Pokhara has mesmerized visitors from all over the world with its snow-clad peaks and glacial lakes and rivers. The serenity of the Phewa Lake accompanied by the grandeur of Machhapuchhere (fishtail peak) creates an ambiance of peace and magic.
Start your sightseeing today at Devi’s falls, a unique waterfall that plunges directly into a deep and narrow chasm. It is believed that this deadly waterfall took the life of a tourist named Devi, who fell down into the chasm and was found after 3 days, and hence the name Devi’s falls. Then, in the afternoon boat trip on Phewa Lake, the second largest lake in Nepal. Crushing on the lake offers an excellent view of the Annapurna Range. On a calm day, the range is almost clearly reflected on the lake’s almost black and glassy water. It is the most famous water fall in Pokhara, which comes to its gushing best just before disappearing underground. The water following in this fall comes from Phewa Lake and the fall is worth visiting during the rainy seasons as it possesses its maximum velocity.
Gupterswor Mahadev Cave:
Gupterswor Mahadev Cave is one of the longest caves in Nepal. On the way to cave, there are shining stones seen everywhere and in the temple is big stone that looks like snake’s head and tortoise which is consider as the image of the lord Shiva. Second part is very beautiful and you see shining stones and different types of rocks like bee hives.
Bindebasani Temple:
This is one of the oldest temples in Pokhara. Legends say that when Pokhara was a part of Kaski Kingdom, the main deity of the temple, Goddess Durga, was brought from India. Apart from the peace and tranquillity that can be felt in this region. The premises of the temple offer a good view of the Himalayas on a clear day. The temple is in the area of the Bazaar; hence, a journey of the old bazaar can be combined with a visit to the temple.
Day 4: Day Hike from NauDanda to Sarangkot (About 4 /5 hours). Overnight at Hotel Temple Tree.
We begin our walk from NauDanda, from where a pleasant 4/5hours ridge and level walk through the Brahmin and Chhetri villages takes us to the vantage point of Sarangkot. This is the perfect place for a rest, where we can admire the far-reaching views, and watch the acrobatics of the many paragliders that launch from here.
Day 5: Drive to Chitwan after breakfast (5 Hrs). After Lunch, Jungle activities in Chitwan National Park as per the package provided by the lodge. Over Night at Barahi jungle Lodge
Drive to Barahi Jungle Lodge, and spend the next two days exploring one of the finest national parks in Asia, renowned for its diverse and dense wildlife. Chitwan which literally means “the Heart of the jungle”. The Chitwan National Park is located in the lush valley of the Chitwan District, 75 miles south west of Kathmandu, in the foothills of the Churia Ranges. Formerly known as The Royal Chitwan National Park, Chitwan National Park was established in 1973 and is the first national park in Nepal. It was enlisted as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (Natural) in 1984.
The Chitwan National Park is rich in flora and fauna with different species of birds, mammals, butterflies, etc. And is ideal place for nature lovers. The Park is renowned for its variety of wildlife like various types of deer, monkeys, leopards, bear, crocodiles and particularly the Great Indian One Horned Rhinoceros and the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger. Exploring the park is made easy through several jungle activities like elephant back rides, jungle walks, canoeing, bird watching etc. This provides great opportunity to get closer to the diverse ecosystem of the forest of Nepal.
This afternoon, Climb atop an elephant for a safari through the golden grasses in search of animals. We might be able to see The Royal Bengal tiger, leopard greater one-horned rhinoceros, four kinds of deer, two species of monkey, two types of crocodile and 450 different birds all make their home in the park. This is the best way to explore the jungle without disturbing the animals. Dinner and overnight at the Lodge.
Day 6: Full day jungle activities as per the package.
Early morning, prepare yourself for the canoeing (a dugout canoe ride) in the Rapti River. It’s a good experience to see the birds coming to the riverside and will come back for breakfast. After breakfast we leave for another exciting journey of jungle safari inside dense forest for animal sighting. We then return back to the Lodge, freshen up and get ready for another interesting cultural program to see the locals of the tharu who perform The Tharu Cultural Program. Dinner and overnight at the Lodge.
Day 7: Fly back to Kathmandu from Chitwan (Approx.20 minutes,), Half day tour to Kathmandu Durbar Square and Swyambhunath Temple.
Kathmandu Durbar Square
Known as Kantipur, The capital of the Kingdom of Nepal. Here you will visit the temple of the living Goddess, who acknowledges the greetings of the devotees from the balcony of her temple residence. Kasthmandap- the source of the name Kathmandu and supposed to be made from the timber of a single tree and Durbar square are with its array of temples overlooked by the Hanuman Dhoka Palace, the ancient palace of the Nepalese Royalty.
Swyambhunath
Located approximately 4 Km/2.5Miles, Buddhist stupa this is said to be 2000 years old, the stupa which forms the main structure is composed of a solid hemisphere of brick and earth supporting a lofty conical spire capped by a pinnacle of copper gilt. Painted on the four sided base of the spire are the all seeing eyes of Lord Buddha. This hill is a mosaic of small Chaityas and Pagodas temples.
Day 8:
Final Departure with Thai air from Kathmandu /Bangkok
Kathmandu
Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, after clearing immigration and Customs and obtaining your visa on arrival transfer to your hotel where you will check in , After a chance to freshen up , head out to begin exploring A harmonious amalgam of Hindu energy and Buddhist tranquillity, Kathmandu is synonymous with a far – flung outmost, and to this day it retains a mystical aura that may leave you feeling like you have stepped through a looking glass its narrow alleyways wind past eight World Heritage sites.
(Visit Pashupatinath and Bouddhanath)
Start with a drive to a UNESCO World Heritage site, Pashupatinath. This famous temple is locatednOn the banks of the Bagmati River. Much like the Ganges. The Bagmati River is a holy river and an auspicious place to be cremated. You may have even witness this ancient Hindu cremation ritual. The wrapped body is placed upon a mound of smouldering logs and bush. Then set alight. Hindus believe that the soul escapes through the skull, to be reborn again.
Bouddhanath
This stupa, eight kilometres east of Kathmandu city is one of the biggest in the world of its kind. It stands with four pairs of eyes in the four cardinal direction keeping watch for righteous behaviour and human prosperity. This Buddhist stupa was built by King Man Dev at the advice of Goddess Bajra jogini. It is built on an octagonal base inset with prayers wheels. The shrine is ringed by houses of Lamas or Buddhist priests.
Day 2: In Kathmandu, Day Hike from Nagarkot to Changu Narayan Temple. Half Day sightseeing tour to Bhaktapur. Overnight at Hotel Yak and Yeti:
Day Hike from Nagarkot to Changu Narayan Temple. Half Day sightseeing tour to Bhaktapur. Overnight at Hotel Yak and Yeti
Following breakfast you are met and transferred overland to Nagarkot. Start the day with a hike from Nagarkot to Changunarayan (approx.04-05 hours/8 ½ miles/13 ½ Km/ 270M of descent- walk depending on one’s pace.) At an altitude of 2175m above the sea level, Nagarkot is situated 35 km northeast of the Kathmandu city. From here one can see the majestic Mount Everest and other snow capped peaks of the Himalayas.
Nagarkot is located between Kathmandu valley in the west and Indrawati in the east. The top of Nagarkot encompasses more than 200 miles of snow capped peaks, from Annapurna in the west beyond Everest in the east. It also offers a panoramic view of the Kathmandu valley. Nagarkot is renowned international tourist destination with spectacular views of the whole Langtang range, sunrise over the mountains and sunset views. It is a popular over-night holiday destination for not just tourists but for the people of Kathmandu as well. This hike offers one to witness the villages along the trail that still exhibits countryside lifestyle of Nepal even though it is very close from the city.
The Himalayas in the backdrop provides the best possible natural settings. The first part of the hiking offers cultural encounter and the second part is more natural as the trail follows the ridge with deciduous forest. The walking is easy with gradual downhill and fairly levelled path.
Changunarayan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site; the temple of Changunarayan is dedicated to God Vishnu. The temple is a great example of Nepalese architecture. It is the oldest temple in Kathmandu valley and its existence dates back to the 4th century.
Bhaktapur
After Breakfast this morning pay a visit to the ancient royal city of Bhaktapur (formerly known as Bhadgaon), a history-soaked medieval town, which is also a UNESCO World heritage site found in the 9th century, fortified town in the Kathmandu Valley and a home of medieval art and architecture, also known as the “City of Devotees”. It is the best preserved of the three original cities of Kathmandu Valley, the other two being Kathmandu and Patan. Tread along 17th century cobbled pavements marvelling at the ancient architecture. Watch today’s bustling activity in the town square and see the Palace of Fifty-Five Windows. There are many impressive sights here including the ancient gateway, the statue of Bhuptindra Malla, and the famous Pagoda-style, five-storied temple of Nytapola-the tallest in Nepal. Bhaktapur is regarded as a showcase of “medieval “Nepalese town life and you have time to walk around and see potter’s spinning at their wheels and woodcarvers at work.
Day 3: Fly to Pokhara (Approx.25 minutes,), Half day sightseeing tour. And Hike to Peace Pagoda Temple (2 Hours) after boating in the lake Phewa. Drive back to the hotel. Overnight at Hotel Temple Tree.
Today you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight to Pokhara which takes approximately 25 minutes. Upon arrival at Pokhara, you will be received and transferred to Hotel Temple Tree.
Pokhara’s bewitching beauty has been the subject of many travel writers. Its pristine air, spectacular back drop of snowy peaks, serene lakes and surrounding greenery make it “the jewel in the Himalayas”, a place of remarkable natural beauty. With the magnificent Annapurna range forming the backdrop and the serenity of three major Lakes- Phewa, Rupa and Begnas- Pokhara is the ultimate destination for relaxation. Pokhara Valley is the end of the famous Annapurna Circuit and a gateway to some of the most famous long – distance treks in Nepal. It also offers plenty of rewarding short walks and day trips suitable for children and weary trekkers. It is the second largest city in Nepal and sits high on the list of “must visit” places in Nepal. Pokhara is the home for dense forests, gushing rivers, lucid lakes and the world famous view of the Himalayas Meet your guide and head out to explore, Pokhara has mesmerized visitors from all over the world with its snow-clad peaks and glacial lakes and rivers. The serenity of the Phewa Lake accompanied by the grandeur of Machhapuchhere (fishtail peak) creates an ambiance of peace and magic.
Start your sightseeing today at Devi’s falls, a unique waterfall that plunges directly into a deep and narrow chasm. It is believed that this deadly waterfall took the life of a tourist named Devi, who fell down into the chasm and was found after 3 days, and hence the name Devi’s falls. Then, in the afternoon boat trip on Phewa Lake, the second largest lake in Nepal. Crushing on the lake offers an excellent view of the Annapurna Range. On a calm day, the range is almost clearly reflected on the lake’s almost black and glassy water. It is the most famous water fall in Pokhara, which comes to its gushing best just before disappearing underground. The water following in this fall comes from Phewa Lake and the fall is worth visiting during the rainy seasons as it possesses its maximum velocity.
Gupterswor Mahadev Cave:
Gupterswor Mahadev Cave is one of the longest caves in Nepal. On the way to cave, there are shining stones seen everywhere and in the temple is big stone that looks like snake’s head and tortoise which is consider as the image of the lord Shiva. Second part is very beautiful and you see shining stones and different types of rocks like bee hives.
Bindebasani Temple:
This is one of the oldest temples in Pokhara. Legends say that when Pokhara was a part of Kaski Kingdom, the main deity of the temple, Goddess Durga, was brought from India. Apart from the peace and tranquillity that can be felt in this region. The premises of the temple offer a good view of the Himalayas on a clear day. The temple is in the area of the Bazaar; hence, a journey of the old bazaar can be combined with a visit to the temple.
Day 4: Day Hike from NauDanda to Sarangkot (About 4 /5 hours). Overnight at Hotel Temple Tree.
We begin our walk from NauDanda, from where a pleasant 4/5hours ridge and level walk through the Brahmin and Chhetri villages takes us to the vantage point of Sarangkot. This is the perfect place for a rest, where we can admire the far-reaching views, and watch the acrobatics of the many paragliders that launch from here.
Day 5: Drive to Chitwan after breakfast (5 Hrs). After Lunch, Jungle activities in Chitwan National Park as per the package provided by the lodge. Over Night at Barahi jungle Lodge
Drive to Barahi Jungle Lodge, and spend the next two days exploring one of the finest national parks in Asia, renowned for its diverse and dense wildlife. Chitwan which literally means “the Heart of the jungle”. The Chitwan National Park is located in the lush valley of the Chitwan District, 75 miles south west of Kathmandu, in the foothills of the Churia Ranges. Formerly known as The Royal Chitwan National Park, Chitwan National Park was established in 1973 and is the first national park in Nepal. It was enlisted as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (Natural) in 1984.
The Chitwan National Park is rich in flora and fauna with different species of birds, mammals, butterflies, etc. And is ideal place for nature lovers. The Park is renowned for its variety of wildlife like various types of deer, monkeys, leopards, bear, crocodiles and particularly the Great Indian One Horned Rhinoceros and the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger. Exploring the park is made easy through several jungle activities like elephant back rides, jungle walks, canoeing, bird watching etc. This provides great opportunity to get closer to the diverse ecosystem of the forest of Nepal.
This afternoon, Climb atop an elephant for a safari through the golden grasses in search of animals. We might be able to see The Royal Bengal tiger, leopard greater one-horned rhinoceros, four kinds of deer, two species of monkey, two types of crocodile and 450 different birds all make their home in the park. This is the best way to explore the jungle without disturbing the animals. Dinner and overnight at the Lodge.
Day 6: Full day jungle activities as per the package.
Early morning, prepare yourself for the canoeing (a dugout canoe ride) in the Rapti River. It’s a good experience to see the birds coming to the riverside and will come back for breakfast. After breakfast we leave for another exciting journey of jungle safari inside dense forest for animal sighting. We then return back to the Lodge, freshen up and get ready for another interesting cultural program to see the locals of the tharu who perform The Tharu Cultural Program. Dinner and overnight at the Lodge.
Day 7: Fly back to Kathmandu from Chitwan (Approx.20 minutes,), Half day tour to Kathmandu Durbar Square and Swyambhunath Temple.
Kathmandu Durbar Square
Known as Kantipur, The capital of the Kingdom of Nepal. Here you will visit the temple of the living Goddess, who acknowledges the greetings of the devotees from the balcony of her temple residence. Kasthmandap- the source of the name Kathmandu and supposed to be made from the timber of a single tree and Durbar square are with its array of temples overlooked by the Hanuman Dhoka Palace, the ancient palace of the Nepalese Royalty.
Swyambhunath
Located approximately 4 Km/2.5Miles, Buddhist stupa this is said to be 2000 years old, the stupa which forms the main structure is composed of a solid hemisphere of brick and earth supporting a lofty conical spire capped by a pinnacle of copper gilt. Painted on the four sided base of the spire are the all seeing eyes of Lord Buddha. This hill is a mosaic of small Chaityas and Pagodas temples.
Day 8:
Final Departure with Thai air from Kathmandu /Bangkok
Our service includes:
Meet at the airport and transferred to the hotel as booked.
3 Night’s accommodation at the Hotel Yak and Yeti in a twin sharing room on bed and breakfast plan.
2 Night’s accommodation at the Hotel Temple Tree in a twin sharing room on bed and breakfast plan.
2 Night’s accommodation at Barahi jungle Lodge in a twin sharing room on full Board with all activities.
All the sightseeing tours, hiking and transfers will be provided by A/C private vehicle with English speaking tour leader through the trip in Nepal.
All entrance and monument fees as indicated in the program.
Pack lunch will be provided during hikes.
Domestic flight tickets from Kathmandu/Pokhara/Chitwan/Kathmandu.
Our service doesn’t include:
Nepal visa fees.
Refreshments, bottled drinks.
Tipping to guide and driver.
Insurance and rescue of any form.
Cost arising out of flight cancellation/road blockades/landslides/riots and events beyond our control.
Expenses of personal nature and any other expenses not mentioned in the above cost.
Meals not mentioned in the Itinerary.
Photography charges in the monasteries and monuments.
Meet at the airport and transferred to the hotel as booked.
3 Night’s accommodation at the Hotel Yak and Yeti in a twin sharing room on bed and breakfast plan.
2 Night’s accommodation at the Hotel Temple Tree in a twin sharing room on bed and breakfast plan.
2 Night’s accommodation at Barahi jungle Lodge in a twin sharing room on full Board with all activities.
All the sightseeing tours, hiking and transfers will be provided by A/C private vehicle with English speaking tour leader through the trip in Nepal.
All entrance and monument fees as indicated in the program.
Pack lunch will be provided during hikes.
Domestic flight tickets from Kathmandu/Pokhara/Chitwan/Kathmandu.
Our service doesn’t include:
Nepal visa fees.
Refreshments, bottled drinks.
Tipping to guide and driver.
Insurance and rescue of any form.
Cost arising out of flight cancellation/road blockades/landslides/riots and events beyond our control.
Expenses of personal nature and any other expenses not mentioned in the above cost.
Meals not mentioned in the Itinerary.
Photography charges in the monasteries and monuments.
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