Streets & temples of Kathmandu, Rickshaw Ride, Local towns of Patan, Kirtipur and Bhaktapur with pottery class, Sunrise mountain views from Nagarkot,
Highlights
An immersive 6-day Nepal tour. Explore Kathmandu's culture, ancient towns, scenic Nagarkot, and experience a homestay in Panauti. Visit sacred sites and immerse yourself in Nepal's rich heritage.
Itinerary
We greet you on your arrival in Kathmandu airport today and transfer you to your hotel in the Thamel tourist disctrict of the city. Our rep will help you settle in and familiarise you with the local area before the rest of your day is free. In the evening our rep will take you on an evening walk through Thamel to check out the numerous bars, restaurants and nightlife on offer. You may have your first taste of Nepal's traditional dish tonight - Dal Bhat (rice and lentil curry).
OVERNIGHT:
Kathmandu hotel
MEALS:
None
EXTRAS:
Single room supplement (NPSHSH)
Extra day in Kathmandu - pre-tour
Our Nepal tour starts with an exciting Rickshaw ride through the backstreets of Thamel, to Durbar Square. We'll pass through small back streets full of numerous tiny shops, workshops, temples, and stupas to Durbar Square with its array of wooden and stone carved temples and palaces, where we'll have plenty of time to walk around and explore. After lunch at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the square, we drive to the important Swayambunath Stupa which sits on a hilltop overlooking the city, visible from miles around. Also known locally as the 'monkey temple', we'll see these nimble inhabitants scampering in and around the trees and temple.
OVERNIGHT:
Kathmandu hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast
EXTRAS:
Everest Mountain Flight
Wake up today in Kathmandu before embarking on a tour to visit the nearby towns of Patan, Kirtipur and Bhaktapur.
Patan is often referred to as Lalitpur, the "City of Beauty", Patan is renowned for its rich artistic heritage and architectural marvels. The heart of Patan is its Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you'll find an exquisite collection of temples, palaces, and courtyards showcasing the intricate artistry of the Newar people. Our next stop is Kirtipur which is located on a hilltop, overlooking the Kathmandu valley, here you'll be offered a glimpse into traditional local life.
Next we'll visit the centre of Bhaktapur, which has been designated a World Heritage Site, and hosts the best preserved ancient buildings and temples in the Kathmandu valley, with some great examples of traditional wooden architecture to be seen. Our tour here will really give you a taste for how life has been led in the valley for centuries, and you'll see several traditional crafts still taking place, including a whole square dedicated to pottery where you'll have the opportunity to join an included pottery class.
Later, we head into the hills surrounding the valley and spend the night in the village of Nagarkot. The village is perched on a ridge and is known for having some of the best views in the Kathmandu Valley.
OVERNIGHT:
Nagarkot hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast
EXTRAS:
None
This morning we hope for spectacular sunrise views from Nagarkot before walking downhill through the Tilkot Forest Reserve and along a ridge with classic terraced farmland on either side to Changu Narayan Temple, perched on a hilltop east of Kathmandu. This is Nepal's oldest temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Revered by Hindus and Buddhists alike, it boasts a rich history dating back to the 4th century.
From here we travel to nearby Panauti, nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Nepal, our homestay offers a unique and immersive cultural experience. Located in the historic town of Panauti, this experience allows you to step back in time and embrace the authentic Newari way of life. You'll reside in a traditional Newari house, have a tour of the local village, savour home-cooked meals (with the option to participate in cooking), and have lots of opportunities to interact with the warm and welcoming locals.
OVERNIGHT:
Panauti homestay
MEALS:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
EXTRAS:
None
After breakfast in the village, we leave Panauti and drive back to Kathmandu, stopping en-route at two of the cities most important, and contrasting religious pilgrimage sites. Our first stop is at Pasupatinath temple, the most sacred Hindu temple in Nepal, which sits on the banks of the Bagmati River, where pilgrims come to pay homage to Lord Shiva. Witnessing the sacred rituals and cremation ceremonies can be a powerful experience, providing a glimpse into the cycle of life and death.
Nearby, Boudhanath, one of the largest stupas in the world, stands as a beacon of Tibetan Buddhism, its massive white dome and all-seeing eyes radiating peace and tranquility. The constant hum of prayers, the colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and the devout pilgrims circumambulating the stupa create a mesmerizing atmosphere.
The evening is free for you to explore Kathmandu and Thamel one last time and enjoy a farewell meal together.
OVERNIGHT:
Kathmandu hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast
EXTRAS:
None
Your tour ends after breakfast this morning, and your time is free until we transfer you to the airport for your departure flight. If you will be staying on in Nepal, then our local rep will be happy to help you with information, advice and any onward arrangements.
OVERNIGHT:
N/A
MEALS:
Breakfast
EXTRAS:
None
included with
3-star hotels in Kathmandu and Nagarkot
Community homestay experience in Panauti
All transfers, including 24-hour airport arrival transfer service vehicle transport
Services of a local escort throughout the tour
Specialist city guides in and around Kathmandu
All national park entry and activity fees
Meals as indicated in the itinerary
All entrance fees to sites visited in the itinerary
Added Experiences: Kathamandu Rickshaw Ride, Pottery class, Community Experience and stay in Panauti
excluded by
International flights (available on request)
Visa fees (available on arrival for most nationalities)
Travel insurance (compulsory, available on request)
Meals not indicated in the itinerary
Drinks, snacks and other personal expenses (e.g. laundry)
Tips for guides, drivers & tour leader
Any other items not mentioned above
Extras /
Upgrades
Optional Single Room Supplement
Extra nights in Kathmandu pre and post-tour
Detailed Description
This captivating 6-day tour of Nepal unveils the country's cultural and spiritual treasures, beginning with an exploration of Kathmandu's bustling Thamel district, where you'll encounter a vibrant tapestry of shops, restaurants, and nightlife. You'll then embark on a journey through time, visiting iconic landmarks like the historic Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the revered Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the 'monkey temple'.
Venture beyond Kathmandu to discover the ancient towns of Patan, Kirtipur, and Bhaktapur, each steeped in history and artistic traditions. In Patan, marvel at the intricate architecture of Durbar Square, while Kirtipur offers a glimpse into traditional local life. In Bhaktapur, wander through well-preserved ancient streets, witness traditional crafts, and participate in a hands-on pottery class.
Experience the serenity of Nagarkot, a picturesque village nestled in the hills, where breathtaking mountain views await. Embark on a scenic walk through the Tilkot Forest Reserve to Changu Narayan Temple, Nepal's oldest, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, steeped in both Hindu and Buddhist traditions.
Immerse yourself in the authentic Newari way of life during a homestay in Panauti. Reside in a traditional Newari house, savor home-cooked meals, and connect with the warm and welcoming local community.
Conclude your journey with visits to two of Nepal's most sacred sites: Pasupatinath Temple, a significant Hindu pilgrimage destination, and Boudhanath Stupa, an iconic Buddhist monument radiating peace and tranquility.
This tour offers a unique blend of cultural exploration, spiritual encounters, and natural beauty, leaving you with lasting memories of Nepal's rich heritage and captivating landscapes.
