Highlights of Nepal
Discover Ancient Tradition
Experience Local Culture
Stand in Awe of the Himalaya
Experience the highlights of Nepal
Days: 11 | From: $7,300/per person
- Stay in boutique hotels, jungle lodges, and mountain top retreats
- Expert private guides open doors to deep cultural experiences
- Sample the amazing diversity of Nepal- from ancient history in urban Kathmandu to wildlife filled jungles to soaring peaks
Nepal is famous for its mountains – and rightfully so- but this diverse nation offers so much more beyond its soaring peaks. This itinerary dives into the cultural, historic, and natural spaces of Nepal. In Kathmandu, see some of the city’s most iconic landmarks before flying to Pokhara where you’ll hike amidst mountains, visit a local coffee farm, and meet local community members. Arriving in Chitwan, safari through Nepal’s most iconic National Park where you’ll have the chance to spot one-horned rhino and maybe even Bengal tigers. Your trip ends in serene Dhulikel, a mountain retreat that allows you to see the countryside of Nepal and visit Namo Buddha, one of Buddhism’s most important pilgrimage sites.
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We tailor itineraries to your dates and interests, adjusting hotels, excursions and length as desired.
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At a glance
- Kathmandu
2 nights: Discover the ancient shrines and temples of Nepal's capital - Pokhara
2 nights: Sleep amidst towering peaks in Nepal's adventure hub - Chitwan National Park
3 nights: Safari by jeep, canoe, and on foot through jungle landscapes - Dhulikel
3 nights: Savor mountain views and countryside charm at one of Nepal's most spectacular resorts
All itineraries are fully customizable. We will send you a personalized variation that reflects your interests and travel dates at no extra cost. Call to discuss your travel plans with one of our Specialists who know this region firsthand.
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Sample itinerary
Welcome to Nepal!
Welcome to Kathmandu. Cradled by the Himalaya, Kathmandu is a vibrant city where ancient temples stand alongside modern buildings, and bustling marketplaces give way to narrow alleyways. You’ll be met at the airport before transferring into the city and to your hotel. The afternoon is free to rest and explore on your own.
Accommodations: The Dwarika’s Hotel, 2 nights
This award-winning hotel is inspired by Kathmandu Valley’s rich cultural heritage, featuring an extensive collection of artifacts from the 13th century. The peaceful courtyards display grand architectural wooden masterpieces, and the 80 spacious rooms are a tribute to Nepal’s artistic history. The rooms at Dwarika’s brings back the true essence of Nepali living where each room has a view of the Dwarika’s Courtyard. Enjoy farm-to-table cuisine at the onsite restaurants, as well as a large outdoor swimming pool, terraces and a spacious courtyard, and a Himalayan spa.
Alternative lodging options: Nepali Ghar Hotel, Hotel Barahi KathmanduHighlights of Kathmandu
Today’s tour offers a glimpse into Nepal’s rich religious diversity and its iconic historical sites. Meet your expert guide and start your day by immersing yourself in the artistic heritage of Patan, the oldest city in the valley. Witness the elegant architecture and enjoy lunch with a rooftop view. Head to Pashupatinath Temple after lunch. Observe the rituals at this revered Hindu temple from across the Bagmati River. Finish your day at Boudhanath Stupa, where you can join Tibetan pilgrims for a circumambulation (sacred walk) around this beautiful stupa, one of the largest in the world.
Pokhara
Fly to the mountain city of Pokhara. Nestled amidst the majestic Annapurna mountain range, Pokhara is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. After landing, meet your guide for a tour of the area, including the International Mountain Museum, a visit to a local coffee farm, a boat ride on serene Fewa Lake, and a visit to the Women’s Skills Development Organization to learn about their empowering work.
Accommodations: Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge, 2 nights
This award-winning lodge is set on a hilltop ridge 1,000 feet about Pokhara Valley, giving guests unmatched panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge is ideal base for guests to relax in a rural mountain setting, away from the bustle of Nepal’s cities. With a central lodge, bar and dining room, the 18 comfortable rooms are arranged in clusters of cottages resembling a Nepali village. All rooms have attached bathrooms, private verandas, and Himalayan views. Daily table d’hôte menus feature a range of Nepali dishes and continental specialties made from local fresh ingredients and home – grown herbs and garden salads. There's also a secluded swimming pool and spa for unwinding after a day of touring or trekking.
*Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAlternative lodging options: Sarangkot Mountain Lodge
Full Day Exploration of Pokhara
Take in the stunning mountain vistas before meeting your guide for a hike that offers views of the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges. This hike will also pass through charming villages inhabited by Brahmins, Chhetris, Gurungs, and Magars, allowing you the opportunity to learn more about local traditions and culture. Visit the Shiva Statue before having lunch at a restaurant with views over Fewa Lake. Continue your walk after lunch, descending to the Peace Stupa. Depending on time, explore Devi’s Fall or Gupteshwar Mahadev cave temple on your way back to the lodge.
Chitwan National Park
Venture farther South today, to Chitwan National Park. Chitwan is one of Asia’s finest and richest wildlife sanctuaries. Chitwan National Park was established in 1973 and was granted the status of a World Heritage site in 1984. A true wilderness, Chitwan has lush riverine grasslands, densely forested hills, and is home to a plethora of wildlife including one-horned rhino and the majestic and elusive Royal Bengal Tiger. On arrival at your hotel, take some time to settle into your room. In the afternoon, embark on a boat safari with sundowner. Dinner and evening lectures will take place at the lodge nightly.
Accommodations: Barahi Jungle Lodge, 3 nights
Situated on the banks of the Rapti river opposite Chitwan National Park, Barahi Jungle Lodge’s extensive 30 acres of grounds provides a truly authentic jungle experience for guests, with an array of local bird and wildlife often freely coming and going to the property. 28 individual huts and three double huts with interconnecting rooms are available, and all boast locally sourced materials, WIFi, air-conditioning, and views into the jungle. Guests can enjoy evening sundowners overlooking the river, nightly cultural dances, "bush" dinners by lantern-light (upon request), massages in the onsite spa, a sprawling stone-paved swimming pool, a library, and cozy bar and lounge spaces.
*Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerChitwan Safari
The next two days will be on safari schedule. Wake up early for a morning jeep safari with your resident naturalist guide before returning to the lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, you can choose to head out on a walking safari or jeep safari. Keep your eyes peeled for one-horned rhinos, Bengal tigers, Asian elephants, spotted deer, and numerous bird species. You can also choose to visit one of the local Tharu villages where you can learn about their traditions and witness their unique way of life in harmony with nature.
Bhaktapur Ancient City. Arrive to Dhulikel
Head out on one final morning safari before transferring to the airport for your flight to Kathmandu. Drive to Bhaktapur, an ancient city filled with historical monuments like the royal palace, Golden Gate, and various temples. Immerse yourself in the medieval architecture and try your hand at making pottery in the Pottery Square. Continue to Dhulikel, where you’ll check into Dwarika’s Resort for the next three nights. This resort offers stunning views of the Himalayas and the architecture is a testament to Nepal’s rich cultural heritage. Inspired by traditional Newari style, the buildings are adorned with intricate wood carvings and terracotta facades, offering a glimpse into the region’s artistic legacy. With an organic farm on-site, meals at Dwarika’s are a real treat.
Accommodations: The Dwarika’s Resort, 3 nights
Set in the Himalayan foothills outside Kathmandu, this resort offers spectacular panoramic view of the Himalayas. All rooms at Dwarika's Resort are in suite-style, and offer mountain views, climate control, WiFi, and have ensuite bathrooms. The resort offers a large outdoor swimming pool, yoga and meditation classes, a spa, a gym, a bar and lounge with 360-degree views, and multiple dining areas featuring organic ingredients grown at the onsite farm.
*Includes: BreakfastFree Day
Today is a free day to relax and enjoy Dwarika’s. Visit the organic garden, embark on a hike, take part in a yoga or meditation session, or try your hand at a pottery, cooking, or a mandala class.
Namobuddha
Namo Buddha is one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Nepal. Meet your guide and driver for a short drive to Namobuddha. Alternatively, you can choose to hike 3 hours to reach Namobuddha.
Immerse yourself in this revered pilgrimage site, visiting a monastery and witnessing the serene chanting of monks. Explore the monastery grounds and other significant sites within Namo Buddha before enjoying a leisurely walk through a local village. Return to Dwarika’s in time for lunch and a free afternoon.
Departure
Bid farewell to Dhulikel. Transfer to the Kathmandu airport. Board your flight headed home or onward to your next destination.
Popular Ways to Customize This Itinerary
Choose from a selection of carefully curated, best in class hotels to fit your individual travel style.
Consult with your Vaya Specialist and expand your trip to combine with other parts of Nepal. Add a trek in the Annapurna region or journey to remote Mustang
Contact us to learn about more options for designing and customizing your trip!
Why Travel with Vaya?
We're TRUE specialists
We’ve not only traveled there, we’ve lived there. Our smart and engaging specialists are all current or former expatriates with years of experience in the region.
Uplifting service
From the first phone call to after you get back, we're here for you every step of the way. We listen, create, customize and advocate for you, and design experiences that go beyond the expected.
Thoughtful travel
Our discerning sensibility and good taste go beyond just choices in hotels and top guides; we have a walk the walk commitment to the environment and are genuine leaders in conservation efforts.