Culture and heritage tour in Nepal
955,00 €
The Kathmandu Valley can surprise visitors with its rich heritage of artistic brilliance, its cultural richness within a modern city and traditions that refuse to die. A tour of the monuments begins with centuries-old temples and stupas and visits to old palace squares, all designated as World Heritage Sites. Outside the valley, there are delightful resort towns and the enchanting Pokhara valley to visit.
Nepal’s cultural treasure trove
From the bustling historic cities of the Kathmandu Valley to the tranquil Pokhara Valley, this journey of discovery gives us many moments of joy and contemplation as we go from centuries-old monuments to placid lakes and gaze at giant snow-capped peaks in the horizon. A tour of Kathmandu Valley will charm you with its rich tapestry of interwoven cultures and architectural wonders. The fascinating stupas of Swoyambhu and Boudha, the two most important Buddhist shrines in the valley, then Pashupatinath, a Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva dating back to the 12th century. All these shrines display the religious harmony prevalent in the valley for centuries. Bhaktapur, the most beautiful of the historical cities of the valley on the other hand retains much of its old-world charm. Wind off the tour with a drive to Pokhara for two days of exciting excursions amongst the villages in the shadow of Mount Macchapuchare.
- Nepal Country
- Culture and discovery Thématique
- Easy Difficulté
- 10 days Duration
- 3 days Hiking days
- 1 750 m Max. altitude
- Yes Guide
- Kathmandu → Pokhara via shanti stupa Departure / Arrival
- Pokhara – Kathmandu Domestic flights
Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu and check-in at the hotel. Rest and local tours.
Begin with a tour of Patan, one of the three ancient royal cities of the valley, known for excellent statue makers. We drive on to Bungamati, a 15th-century village populated by typical, traditional Newari craftsmen. Walk across terraced rice fields to reach the peaceful village of Khokhana. Drive back to the hotel in the late afternoon.
We visit one of Hinduism’s major shrines, Kathmandu’s Pashupatinath, where Hindu cremations take place by the holy Bagmati River. Dating back to the 12th century, this temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, is where pilgrims come to bathe in the holy river. Then we drive to Bhaktapur, 15 km away from Kathmandu, a laid-back pedestrian town and the most beautiful of the three royal cities of the valley. Overnight in Bhaktapur to enjoy a peaceful stay!
In the morning, take a stroll down the alleys of the old city of Bhaktapur, discovering its secrets. Then drive to nearby Changu Nararayan, the oldest pagoda temple still standing in the valley. Enjoy panoramic views and check out the old stone carvings that are a highpoint of this temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The next stop is Dhulikhel from where the panoramic views of the Himalayan mountains are incredible. Then move on to Namo Buddha, a Buddhist pilgrimage site and beautiful viewpoint over the snowy peaks. (It is possible to hike up to Namo Buddha).
This morning’s hike takes us to the village of Balthali where we enjoy our lunch. Then another walk to Khopasi, followed by a short drive to Panauti, a delightful settlement with remarkable temples that were recently renovated. We return to Kathmandu and head for the great stupa of Boudha located in the heart of the Tibetan district. The massive stupa is surrounded by many Buddhist monasteries where monks teach Tibetan Buddhism.
We drive for 4 ½ hr from Kathmandu to Bandipur, a charming little village of Newari traders with many tourist facilities; superb views of the Himalayan range.
Take an easy stroll from Bandipur to Chirkini via Ramkot, a typical Magar village. Then drive to Pokhara. Overnight in a hotel by the Phewa Lake.
Take a morning drive to the Gurung village of Bhumdi, and climb up to the heights. We enjoy superb views of the Annapurna range and the Machhapuchhare along with views of the verdant valley below. Then head for the Shanti Stupa, a.k.a. “The Peace Pagoda”. Then we descend to Phewa Lake where we take a boat across the lake and head back to lakeside. Free time in Pokhara.
Catch the mid-morning flight to Kathmandu from Pokhara Airport. Once in the city, visit the great, old Buddhist stupa of Swoyambhu overlooking the Kathmandu valley. Afterward, visit the old quarter of the city of Kathmandu with its narrow streets and tiny, mysterious alleys, the crowded, noisy market place and then walk up to Thamel, the tourist district where you can do some intense souvenir shopping. Free time in town.
In the morning, free time in Kathmandu. In the afternoon, transfer to TIA (Kathmandu Airport) for your return flight.
Practical Info
What is included
- All transfers by Air-conditioned private vehicle as per the itinerary
- 3 night in hotel Manaslu 3* on BB in Katmandu
- 1 night Shiva guest house on half board in Bhaktapur
- 1 night in an old inn on half board in Bandipur
- 2 nights in Lakeside retreat on BB in Pokhara
- English speaking cultural guide for the entire trip
- Monument Entrance fees as per visit program
What is not included
- Lunch and dinner in Katmandu and Pokhara
- Nepal visa ($30 + photo)
- insurance
- Flights
- Personnel expenses, tips, drinks, etc …
FAQ
In just ten days, this Nepal discovery tour offers a concentrate of Nepalese experiences and landscapes, combining historic cities, traditional villages, sacred places and gentle hikes. Far from a quick overview, the itinerary immerses you in turn in the spiritual fervour of Hindu and Buddhist shrines, the architectural richness of former royal cities such as Bhaktapur and Patan, and the tranquillity of the mountains around Pokhara. This balanced pace alternates cultural discovery, local encounters and moments of contemplation, for a complete immersion that suits even less active travellers.
This tour combines Nepal’s must-sees with more confidential sites for a rich, nuanced experience. You will of course visit the great spiritual symbols of the Kathmandu Valley – Boudhanath, Swayambhunath and Pashupatinath – but also hidden treasures such as Namo Buddha, perched on a peaceful hilltop and a major centre of Buddhist meditation. The stop in Bandipur, a perfectly preserved former Newar trading post, immerses you in a timeless atmosphere. Combining listed heritage and off-the-beaten-track discoveries, this journey gives you a taste of a diverse Nepal, between living traditions and unspoilt landscapes.
Designed to be easy, with no physical difficulty or altitude constraints, this journey is aimed at all curious travellers, whether keen walkers or simple culture lovers. The itinerary peaks at just 1,750 metres, letting you enjoy superb views of the Himalaya without fatigue or acclimatisation. With its easy level, short stages and gentle hikes, the tour is perfect for a first introduction to Nepal. It can be enjoyed almost all year round, especially in the mildest seasons (autumn and spring), with a dry climate and clear skies. An ideal journey to explore the soul of Nepal in complete serenity.
