Highlights Nepal

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Kathmandu Arrival to Dhulikhel (D)

On arrival in Kathmandu, you will be greeted and assisted by our representative before being transferred to Dhulikhel. Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, lies at 1,400 meters above sea level, surrounded by the four hills of Fulchowki, Chandragiri, Shivapuri, and Nagarjun, and is home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites. En route, enjoy the scenic drive as you leave the bustling city behind. Dhulikhel, perched at 1,600 meters in Kavrepalanchowk District, is famed for its panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges, stretching from Cho Oyu in the east to Himalchuli in the west, and for its spectacular sunrises and sunsets. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and settle in. In the evening, enjoy a warm welcome dinner at the hotel accompanied by a pint of beer before spending the night in Dhulikhel.

Overnight in Dhulikhel Mountain Resort or similar.

Day 2: Dhulikhel to Kathmandu (B/ L)

After an early breakfast, set out on a gentle 4 km walk to Kavre Village, taking about 1.5 hours with only a slight altitude gain, making it an easy-grade walk. Begin with a 30-minute hike to Kali Temple, reached either by 1,000 stone steps or a forest trail. From the temple’s esplanade, take in breathtaking views of the Himalayas surrounding Dhulikhel and pause for tea or coffee. Continue with a 45-minute walk through plantations, village shops, and tea houses until you reach Kavre Village, where you can experience authentic rural life. Return by vehicle to your hotel for a short rest before checking out. On the way to Kathmandu, stop at Bhaktapur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for medieval art, temples, and crafts. Explore Bhaktapur Durbar Square with its 55-window palace, marvel at Nyatapola Temple, and try traditional pottery at Pottery Square. After lunch, continue to Kathmandu for check-in and overnight stay.

Overnight in Aloft by Marriott or similar.

Day 3: Kathmandu (B/ L)

Begin your day with an optional early morning scenic flight over the Everest region, a once-in-a-lifetime experience offering breathtaking views of Mt. Everest and surrounding peaks from just 200 meters away. After breakfast, explore Kathmandu Durbar Square, once the royal palace complex, filled with temples, courtyards, and monuments. Visit the Kumari Bahal, home of the Living Goddess, symbolizing divine energy, and see the striking idol of Kal Bhairava, carved from a single rock, representing Lord Shiva in his fierce form. Continue to Patan Durbar Square, a UNESCO site rich with 17th-century temples, royal courtyards, and statues, reflecting the city’s artistic heritage. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, followed by a rare cultural interaction with an Ex-Kumari, who shares her unique experience of being revered as a living goddess in Nepalese tradition.

Overnight in Aloft by Marriott or similar.

Day 4: Kathmandu (B)

This morning, visit Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, located on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River just 6 km from central Kathmandu. Admire its pagoda-style architecture with a gilded roof and ornate silver doors, and observe rituals along the riverbanks, as non-Hindus are not permitted inside. Continue to Boudhanath, one of the world’s largest stupas and an important Buddhist pilgrimage site, with its striking white dome, prayer wheels, and surrounding monasteries. Later, visit the Bamboo School, run by the Samta committee to provide affordable education for underprivileged youth, where you can interact with the children. The afternoon is at leisure, with an optional excursion to Swayambhunath, a 2,000-year-old Buddhist stupa perched on a hill offering panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley, famous for its golden spire and the painted all-seeing eyes of the Buddha.

Overnight in Aloft by Marriott or similar.

Day 5: Kathmandu to Pokhara (B)

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for a flight to Pokhara. The valley of Pokhara, located 210 km from Kathmandu at an altitude ranging from 780 to 1350 m, is renowned for its rare combination of snow-capped Himalayan peaks, serene lakes, and lush landscapes. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel. In the evening, enjoy a boat ride on Phewa Lake, the city’s main attraction and Nepal’s second largest lake. Its tranquil waters reflect the surrounding mountains, offering stunning views and peaceful boating. The vibrant Lakeside area, lined with shops, restaurants, and handicraft stalls, provides a lively atmosphere and is a popular gathering spot for travelers.

Overnight in Atihti Resort or similar.

Day 6: Pokhara (B)

Enjoy an engaging three-hour walk to the World Peace Pagoda, perched atop a hill on the southern shore of Phewa Lake. This serene pagoda features four Buddha statues facing each direction and offers sweeping views of the Annapurna range and Pokhara city. Next, visit Davis Falls, a dramatic waterfall that plunges into a deep, narrow canal, famously named after a tourist who tragically fell here. Explore the Tibetan Refugee Camp, where you can learn about the culture and history of the Tibetan diaspora and browse handcrafted jewelry, ornaments, carpets, and visit a local monastery. Conclude your day at the International Mountain Museum, which highlights the region’s mountaineering history and reveals fascinating details about Mount Everest.

Overnight in Atihti Resort or similar.

Day 7: Pokhara to Kathmandu (B/ D)

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Kathmandu and check in at your hotel upon arrival. Spend the rest of the day at leisure before enjoying a farewell dinner at a traditional local restaurant, accompanied by a cultural performance and a pint of beer. This evening offers a perfect way to celebrate the highlights of your journey and soak in the local atmosphere one last time.

Overnight in Aloft by Marriott or similar.

Day 8: Kathmandu Departure (B)

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward flight or journey home. Reflect on the memories created during this remarkable trip, from the serene Himalayan landscapes and vibrant lakeside Pokhara to the spiritual and cultural treasures of Kathmandu. The stunning vistas, historic sites, and local interactions you have experienced will leave a lasting impression, making this Nepal adventure truly unforgettable.

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