Nepal Introductory Tour

Your journey begins as you land at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, Nepal, greeted by the captivating views of the surrounding mountains and the bustling energy of the city. Upon disembarking and immigration and customs formalities, you will be welcomed with a traditional Nepali greeting, where our company representative will meet you at the arrival hall with Mala (a flower garland) or Khada (ceremonial scarf) and a warm smile. These are the symbol of respect and good wishes, offering you a glimpse into Nepali hospitality. 

After the greeting, you will be escorted to a private, air-conditioned vehicle for a comfortable transfer to your hotel. Enjoy scenic drive through Kathmandu’s streets, where the old and new blend seamlessly- an introduction to the unique charm of this city.

Upon arrival at your hotel, our representative will assist you with the check-in formalities, ensuring a smooth and quick process. Once you’re settled in, you can relax and refresh. 

Later in the day, you will meet with a company representative and fellow travelers for a trip briefing meeting. This session will give you an overview of your itinerary, tips for your stay and any important information about local customs, safety and things to keep in mind during your adventure in Nepal. You’ll have the opportunity to ask any questions about your upcoming sightseeing tours.

To cap off your arrival day, one of the company representatives will take you to a local restaurant for a welcome dinner and cultural show. Here, you will be introduced to typical Nepalese meal and dance, songs, music, and costume of various ethnic groups living in Nepal. This dinner is a perfect opportunity to  indulge in local flavors and immerse yourself in the culture of Nepal, while mingling with your fellow travellers. After dinner, you will be transferred back to your hotel in Kathmandu for overnight stay. 

Late Arrival Flight Consideration: In the case that your flight arrives late in the afternoon, evening, or even at night, the trip briefing and welcome dinner will be rescheduled for the following day. The meeting will take place after your sightseeing tour and the dinner will be organized in the evening after the day’s activities, ensuring that you can relax and enjoy the experience to its fullest. 

Please note: Hotel check in time is 2:00PM. Early check in charge will be applicable if your flight is scheduled to arrive early in the morning. 

Meals: Welcome Dinner

After breakfast at your hotel, get ready to explore the rich cultural heritage and historical significance of the Kathmandu Valley. This tour typically starts with pick up from your hotel around 9:30AM-10:00AM. You will visit 4 out of 7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These are  some of the most iconic landmarks not just in Kathmandu, but throughout Nepal. Each of these sites offers a unique insight into the country’s ancient traditions, architecture and spirituality. 

The tour begins with a visit to Swayambhunath, also popular as the Monkey Temple, perched atop a hill overlooking the Kathmandu Valley. This ancient stupa is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in Nepal and offers panoramic views of the valley. As you climb the steep steps to the stupa, you’ll encounter playful monkeys and vibrant prayer flags fluttering in the wind. The temple’s central stupa is adorned with the famous eyes of Buddha, symbolizing wisdom, and the entire site is a blend of Hindu and Buddhist sacredness. With a spiritual atmosphere and breathtaking vistas, this makes an ideal site to start your sightseeing tour. You will spend around half an hour to forty-five minutes exploring this site, before heading onto the next site, Kathmandu Durbar Square.   

Kathmandu Durbar Square is the heart of Kathmandu, as this royal complex is a treasure trove of ancient temples, shrines, courtyards, and palaces that were once a home to the Malla Kings. Here, you’ll marvel at the intricate Newar architecture, including the Kumari Ghar (the residence of the living goddess, Kumari), the Hanuman Dhoka Palace, and the Taleju Bhawani Temple. You will also wander through the square’s courtyards and narrow lanes, where the sound of worship and the hustle of daily life blend seamlessly. This is a place where the past comes alive, offering a glimpse into Nepal’s vibrant history and royal heritage. You will spend around 1.5 to 2 hours exploring this site, before moving on to your next site, Boudhanath Stupa.

=Boudhanath Stupa is one of the largest and most significant Buddhist stupas in the world. This massive, circular structure is surrounded by a bustling Tibetan neighborhood and is a focal point of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. As you circle the stupa, you’ll see pilgrims spinning prayer wheels, offering butter lamps and chanting mantras. The atmosphere is tranquil, and majestic stupa with its all-seeing eye of Buddha, is a sight to behold. It’s also a great place to soak in the Buddhist culture as you observe the rituals and the colorful Tibetan shops lining the streets. You will spend around one to one-and-half-hour exploring the site and having lunch, before moving on to the next destination, Pashupatinath. 

To complete the day’s journey, you’ll visit Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu temples in the world. Situated at the bank of the Bagmati River, Pashupatinath is dedicated to Lord Shiva and attracts pilgrims from all over Nepal and India. Non-Hindus are not allowed to enter the main temple, therefore, you will only visit the temple from outside. As you approach the temple, you’ll encounter the sight of the ghats, where the traditional Hindu cremation rituals are performed. You will explore the surrounding area and the many smaller temples and shrines in the complex. The peaceful, spiritual energy of this site is profound and it offers a unique opportunity to witness age-old rituals in their natural setting. 

After exploring these iconic sites, you’ll return to your hotel to relax and reflect on the rich cultural experience of the day. Each of these sites offer its own unique atmosphere, from the peaceful vibe of Boudhanath to the bustling energy of Kathmandu Durbar Square and together they provide a deep connection to Nepal's history, culture and spirituality. Overnight in a hotel in Kathmandu.  

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast at the hotel, today you will depart from Kathmandu for a scenic drive to Chitwan, located in the southern plains of Nepal. The journey takes 5-6 hours, passing through picturesque countryside, terraced fields, and river valleys. The landscape is ever changing with majestic views of the Himalayas in the distance and lush greenery surrounding you. The route offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and a chance to witness rural Nepal in its purest form. 

Upon arrival in Chitwan, you will check into the lodge and enjoy a delicious lunch at your hotel, featuring a mix of regional and national dishes and be prepared for an exciting afternoon. After lunch, you will meet your local guide, who will provide you with a thorough briefing regarding the activities that you will participate in during your time in Chitwan. You will also receive important information about safety, conservation efforts and significance of the local culture and ecosystem.

The briefing will be followed by a village walk to explore the traditional lifestyle of the Tharu people, the indigenous community of the region. As you stroll through the village, your guide will share insights into the Tharu culture, their custom, and their close relationship with nature. You will have a chance to interact with the locals, observe their daily activities, and experience the peaceful atmosphere of rural life here. 

After the village tour, you will continue to walk to the sunset view point, where you can relax and enjoy a panoramic view of Rapti River and the surrounding jungle. Do not miss to  capture the golden hues of the setting sun creating a breathtaking backdrop. After spending some time here, you will return to the hotel for a special dinner featuring a mix of local and international cuisine, perfect for reflecting on the day’s experiences. 

End the day on a cultural note by enjoying the Tharu cultural show. These people are known for their rich cultural heritage. The rhythmic drumbeats and traditional dances will transport you into the heart of Chitwan’s cultural spirit, creating a memorable and lively end to your evening. Overnight in a hotel in Chitwan. 

Add on: To make the day more exciting, you can also choose to add 2-3 hour whitewater rafting in the Trishuli River on the way to Chitwan or a quick visit to Manakamana Temple taking a cable car ride (extra charges applicable).

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

You will start your day early after breakfast with a peaceful canoe ride along the Rapti River. This serene boat ride offers the chance to witness the natural beauty of Chitwan from a unique perspective. As you glide through the river’s calm waters keep an eye out for wildlife sightings - crocodile, water buffaloes as well as a variety of birds, including colorful kingfishers and herons. This river is also home to the endangered Gharial crocodile, which makes this ride an exciting opportunity to observe these ancient reptiles in their natural habitat. The canoe ride will be followed by a jungle walk. 

Take a guided jungle walk through the lush Chitwan National Park. Your experienced naturalist guide will lead the walk and take you through the dense forest explaining the ecology of the region. Apart from sighting the vibrant wildlife that inhabits this UNESCO World Heritage site in Nepal, you will also learn about the park’s flora and fauna, including medical plants and towering trees. This walk offers a true immersion into the park’s wilderness, allowing you to experience its beauty up close. 

You will get back to the hotel for lunch after which you will embark on one of the most exciting experiences of your day- either with a jeep safari or an elephant safari, depending on your preference. 

Hop in to an open-top 4x4 jeep for a thrilling ride through the jungle if you choose jeep safari over elephant safari. The jeep safari is longer and offers the opportunity to cover more ground and visit the deeper parts of the park. From grasslands to dense jungle, you will drive through a variety of terrains as you search to spot wildlife such as the one-horned rhinos, bengal tigers, sloth bear and different species of birds. The experienced driver and naturalist will help spot and identify animals from distance. However, if you prefer a higher vantage point and traditional safari, choose elephant safari. 

After one of these safaris, you will either visit elephant breeding center or crocodile breeding center to get insight on the wildlife conservation efforts of the national park. 

Around late afternoon, you will return to your hotel to unwind after a full day exploration. You can relax by the pool or take a peaceful evening stroll around the hotel property. Enjoy a flavorful dinner before hitting the bed. Overnight in a hotel in Chitwan. 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

You will start this day early, before breakfast, with a peaceful and immersive bird-watching trip in the serene environment of Chitwan National Park or the surrounding birding areas. The morning hours are perfect for birdwatching, as many species are most active during dawn. Led by an expert naturalist guide, you’ll head to the park’s best bird-watching spots, which will either be along the Rapti River, in the dense forest or in the marshy wetlands. Your guide will help you identify birds, explain their habits and share information about their migration pattern and nesting sites. After this excursion, return to your lodge for a refreshing breakfast and prepare for your journey to Bandipur.

Bandipur is a picturesque hilltop town known for its preserved cultural heritage, traditional Newar architecture, and stunning mountain views. The drive from Chitwan takes about 3-4 hours (depending on road condition). The drive is scenic. Leaving Chitwan, as you drive to Bandipur, you’ll notice the gradual change in landscape, from flatlands of Chitwan to now rolling hills that lead up to Bandipur. 

Upon arrival, check into the hotel, take a moment to settle in and relax and set out to explore the old town of Bandipur. Bandipur is famous for its well-preserved Newar architecture, cobbled streets and peaceful atmosphere. You will explore Bandipur on your own, therefore, start your exploration by  strolling through the main street, lined with wooden buildings, temples and ancient shrines. Visit Bindhyabasidi Temple- dedicated to goddess Durga, one of the oldest temples in the town. This temple situated on a hill, offers a sweeping view of the surrounding landscape. Stop for leisurely lunch at one of the town’s local eateries and sample some local traditional cuisine. In the afternoon, take a short hike to Thani Mai Temple or head to the viewpoints near the town to enjoy panoramic sights of the Annapuran and Langtang ranges and on clear days Manaslu as well. These viewpoints make ideal places for photography and relaxation. Every Friday, in the evening, you can also enjoy cultural shows (Gurung and Magar) from 7:00PM to 11:00 PM. However, if you are there some other day of the week and want to enjoy a cultural show, we can arrange that at extra cost. These performances offer a glimpse into Bandipur’s rich traditions and customs. Enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants and get back to the hotel for overnight stay. 

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, prepare for a scenic drive from Bandipur to Pokhara, which takes approximately 3-4 hours. As you leave Bandipur’s hills behind, the road will wind down into the Pokhara Valley, one of the most beautiful valleys in Nepal offering magnificent views of Annapurna and Machhapurchhre. This drive is through terraced fields, small villages, and lush forest, gradually bringing you closer to the serene lakeside town. 

Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel, take a moment to settle, relax and freshen up. After enjoying lunch, you will set out to explore the International Mountain Museum in Pokhara. This museum dedicated to mountains offers an insightful exploration into the region’s rich mountaineering history and Himalayan culture. It showcases exhibits on famous expeditions, including those to Everest and Annapurna, along with displays of climbing gears, local Sherpa culture, and the flora and fauna of the high mountains.

As the day comes to close, you will head back to the lakeside for a relaxed evening. Enjoy a one hour boat ride and the sunset over Phewa Lake, where the changing colors of the sky reflect on the water, creating a magical atmosphere.  Get back to the hotel for overnight stay. 

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, get ready to explore the highlights of Pokhara on a full-day sightseeing tour.

Beginning with a visit to Pumdikot, that features a towering statue of Lord Shiva as well as the breathtaking panoramic views of the Annaputna range, Pokhara valley and the Phewa Lake, you will continue down to serene World Peace Pagoda, a hilltop Buddhist stupa that overlooks Phewa Lake and the beautiful city below. After spending some time here exploring the site and taking in the beautiful surroundings, you will head down to the underground mystical cave, Gupteshwor Cave, which is also a home to sacred Shiva shrine and astonishing rock formation. Just across the street from the cave, witness the power of nature at Devi’s Fall, where water from the Phewa Lake plunges into a deep, narrow george- creating one of Pokhara’s most iconic and dramatic sights. 

Spend the evening at leisure and call it an early, as next morning you will have to wake up early for the sunrise view from Sarangkot. Overnight in a hotel in Pokhara. 

Meals: Breakfast

You will start this day 45 minutes before sunrise and drive to Sarangkot to witness one of the most beautiful mountain sunrise views. After spending some time here, you will get back to the hotel for breakfast.

After breakfast, you will drive back to Kathmandu. The drive time is 6-7 hours (provided the road condition is good and not affected by highway traffic, construction or natural disaster). In Kathmandu, you will be dropped back to the hotel in Kathmandu. 

Overnight in a hotel in Kathmandu. 

Meals: Breakfast

Enjoy a scenic day trip to Nagarkot and Bhaktapur, two cultural and natural gems just outside Kathmandu. Begin your day after breakfast with a drive to Nagarkot, a peaceful hill station renowned for its panoramic views of the Himalayan range, including Mt. Everest on clear days. Enjoy a relaxing walk or simply take in the stunning mountain vistas and fresh air. Afterward, you will continue to the ancient city of Bhaktapur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautifully preserved medieval architecture, traditional Newari culture and iconic landmarks like Nyatapola Temple, Bhaktapur Durbar Square and Pottery Square. Stroll through its charming streets, explore centuries-old temples and courtyards, and immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural heritage before returning to Kathmandu.  

In the evening, a company representative will take you to a farewell dinner. After dinner, get back to the hotel for overnight stay. 

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner 

Breakfast at the hotel and as per your airport reporting time you will be transferred to the airport to help you board your onward flight. If your flight is scheduled later in the afternoon, evening, or night, we can also arrange a day trip for you or you can spend your time exploring the local market and souvenir shopping. 

Please note: The hotel check out time is 12:00 noon; therefore, a late check out charge will apply if you wish to extend your stay beyond this time. A 50% late check-out charge will apply for departures before 5:00 PM and 100% will be applicable for check-outs after 5:00PM.