Trip Overview

Savor the cultural, spiritual and  natural delights of Nepal. This glimpse of Nepal tour takes you to some of the most popular destinations in Nepal. You begin your tour in Kathmandu, a modern city which was once divided into three medieval cities. Experience its rich culture and heritage. The picturesque lakeside city of Pokhara will  enthrall you with its spellbinding  natural beauty. Enjoy boating in the serene Lake Phewa, watched over by the mighty Himalayan peaks. Visit Lumbini, the birth place of Lord Buddha, the ‘Light of Asia’. Explore the lush jungles of Chitwan National Park.

During the course of this trip Glimpse of Nepal, you will have a professional guide at your disposal, and travel on a comfortable private tourist vehicle or a coach. Transfer across cities will be either via air or ground transportation (private vehicle). All accommodation during the tour will be at 2 or 3 star hotels and lodges available in the area. You will have ample opportunity to purchase authentic souvenirs, including carpets, handicrafts, carvings and Thankas (traditional painting) in this trip. 

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

Welcome to Kathmandu! Once you land at Kathmandu airport (Tribhuvan International Airport), retrieve your luggage and go through customs (visa, etc.). Then get to the arrival terminal. You will find our representative waiting to greet you. He/she will be holding an Accessible  Adventure   signboard with your name on it. A comfortable private transfer will take you to the reserved hotel. After checking in, we suggest you have a good rest for the remainder of the day to recover from the jet lag. Overnight in Kathmandu hotel.

 

Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing: Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swoyambhunath, Pashupatinath, Boudhanath

Today after breakfast we start a guided tour to these four medieval and spiritual sites in Kathmandu which are also listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

 

Durbar Square: Durbar Square is a complex of historic palaces, courtyards and temples, built between the 12th and 18th centuries, used to be the Royal palace compound of the ancient Malla kings of Kathmandu. Interesting pieces here to see are 17th century stone inscription set into the wall of the palace, Taleju temple-tallest of all structures built by king Mahendra Malla in 1549 A.D. , Jagannath temple- built in the 16th century, known for fascinating erotic figures carving I the wooden struts eaves, Kal Bhairav- one of the largest stone idol in Kathmandu representing the terrorizing aspects of Shiva, Statue of King Pratap Malla in praying gesture to Digu Taleju the royal family deity right across,  Kumari Ghar- 17th century Kumari temple, Kasthamandap- built from the timber of a single tree, Kathmandu derives its name from Kasthamandap. The entire Palace Complex is also known as Hanuman Dhoka named after a monkey god called Hanuman. One can see a huge stone statue of Hanuman painted all red right next to the main entrance (the golden gate) of the palace. Hanuman here is regarded as a powerful protector of the entire Durbar Square.

 

Bouddhanath: Bouddhanath, a Buddhist shrine in unique octagonal Mandala design with hundreds of prayer wheels and the 108 images of the Buddha set into the niches around the huge structure.  Bouddhanath Stupa is one of the large Stupas in the world.  Bouddhanath is also famous for over 50 Tibetan monasteries, thus the area is also known as ‘Little Tibet’. You can join the locals to circumambulate the Stupa, bargain for handicrafts in the shops or sit on a rooftop restaurant and absorb the atmosphere.

 

Swoyambhunath: Popularly known as Monkey temple due to profusion of monkey found in the shrine area, Swoyambhunath is a 2000 years ancient Stupa situated on a small hill. It is world’s most celebrated Buddhist shrine and its main temple is capped by a pinnacle of copper gilt and is painted on the four sides with all seeing eyes of Lord Buddha. Included Meal: B

 

Pashupatinath: Pashupatinath Temple is one of the most significant Hindu temples of Lord Shiva in the world located on the bank of the Bagmati River. It is a square two tiered pagoda temple built on a single tier plinth which is famous all over the world. Although entrance into the temple complex is allowed to Hindus only, you can clearly see the temple and the activities from the eastern bank of the Bagmati River. Besides being a place of worship, the bank of Bagmati River alongside Pashupatinath Temple is the most important cremation site for the Hindus in Nepal

 

Day 3: Bhaktapur and Patan sightseeing

We start our tour of two more UNESCO World Heritage Site cities adjacent to Kathmandu: Patan & Bhaktapur.  Patan is also known as The City of Fine Arts.  Patan Durbar Square is one of the places in the Kathmandu Valley where the medieval arts and architecture still remain in its original state.  The Durbar Square is full of ancient places, temples and shrines, noted for their exquisite carvings, mostly the Hindu and Buddhist monuments. Similarly, the medieval town of Bhaktapur, or the Town of the Devotees, preserves medieval arts, architecture, culture, and lifestyle to this date. One is sure to feel like travelling back into the past while walking along the Bhaktapur thoroughfares, squares and streets. Overnight at Kathmandu.  Included Meal: B

 

 

Day 4: Pokhara

We continue to Pokhara, a lake city 200 kilometers north-west from Kathmandu which is now about 6 hours drive from Kathmandu . Pokhra, also nicknamed as the Lake City, is not only Nepal’s but one of the most beautiful places on earth. The town offers magnificent views of Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Machhapuchhare, five peaks of Annapurna and others. Pokhara is also the gateway for trekking in the Annapurna Region. After arriving Pokhara, we spend free day hanging around Pokhara’s marketplaces, old bazaars, and landmarks. In the evening, we explore the surrounding of the lakeside areas and enjoy boating in Phewa Lake.  Overnight in Pokhara. Included Meal: B

 

Day 5: Sightseeing in Pokhara

We spend a full day to explore Pokhara. After breakfast, we make a full day sightseeing of Pokhara. Enjoy walking along the bank of Phewa Lake, admiring the stunning reflection of the Fish Tail Peak in the blue Phewa Lake waters. We also take a boat around the Phewa Lake which is the second biggest lake of Nepal. We take the boat across the lake to visit Bindyabasini Temple located at the center of the Lake and take an hour’s walk to the World Peace Pagoda. We also make a short visit to the Gupteshwar Gufa Cave (also called Shiva Gufa).  Some of the other places that we visit today include the Seti River Gorge, Devi’s Fall and the mountain museum etc.  Overnight at Pokhara. Included Meal: B

 

Day 6: Sarankot visit in the morning and drive to Chitwan

Early morning we drive/hike to the Sarangkot Hill to have the sunrise views over the Himalayas. We return to hotel and after breakfast we drive to Chitwan, 160 kilometers from Pokhara and a 5 hour’s drive into the mountains. All the way we descend down along the winding road on the river bank. This will be a journey along river banks with wonderful views of hills and rural Nepalese lifestyle. After checking in to the hotel and getting refreshed you will be briefed about full nature programs by our nature guide. Then we head on for activities. There will be a guided village walk and a walk on the banks of the Rapti River to watch the charming sunset views in the sub-tropical jungle. In the evening, dinner with cultural program by ethnic tribal people with their stick dance and tribal drums. Overnight at Chitwan. Included Meal: B, D

 

Day 7: Full Day at Chitwan National Park - Jungle activities

Early in the morning, we will be mounted on elephants for a jungle safari through dense grasslands to witness wildlife in its natural habitat. After breakfast, we visit the elephant stables and even enjoy bathing the elephants. During the afternoon we can drive through the jungles followed by a canoe ride down the Rapti River. While canoeing, we may get a close look at the Gharial and Mugger crocodiles along with fresh water dolphins, otters and varieties of water birds. Or,we may even go for bird watching or nature walks and come closer to a variety of wild flora and fauna found in the park. Overnight in Chitwan. Included Meal: B, L, D

Day 8: Drive back to Kathmandu (flight option is there with extra costs)

We drive back to Kathmandu today. Try to get left pane of your vehicle to enjoy the river gorges, greeneries, mountains, villages and terraces during the drive. In the evening, we will have a farewell dinner in a traditional Nepalese restaurant with cultural performance. Driving Time: 6-7 hrs. Accommodation: City Hotel. Included Meal: B, D

 

Day 09: Final Departure -Airport drop

Your Best of Nepal Tour is complete today. If you have some time left before your departure flight home, you can shop around Thamel for souvenirs for your friends and relatives.  Our airport representative will drop you at the international airport in Kathmandu for your departure flight from Nepal. We hope beautiful Nepal, the awesome Himalayan sceneries, the cultural experience you got along your Annapurna Panorama Trek will stay in your memory lifelong and you will go back home with a sense of conquest. Included Meal: B

Included

  • Four   nights accommodation in Kathmandu inclusive breakfast in 3 star hotel (Kathmandu Suite Home or similar)
  • Two nights’ accommodation in Pokhara including breakfast (Hotel Lake Star or similar)
  • Two nights and
  • three days of wildlife warfare activities inside Chitwan national park including all meals (Hotel Parkland or similar)
  • All tour activities as per the above program.
  • Surface transfer Kathmandu-Pokhara-Chitwan-Kathmandu by private car/van.
  • All our government taxes.
  • Official expenses.
  • Price Exclude
  • International airfare to and from Kathmandu
  • Personal gears
  • Lunch and Dinner (except in Chitwan is full board)
  • Extra night accommodation if needed
  • Travel and rescue insurance
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, internet, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water etc.)

Excluded

Meals not specified in the 'Meal Inclusions' in the itinerary'
International airfare
Nepal entry visa: you can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. (a multiple-entry tourist visa good for 30 days can be obtained by paying US $ 50 or equivalent foreign currency. Similarly, multiple-entry tourist visas for 90 days can be obtained by paying US $ 100. Please bring 2 copies of passport-size photos.)
Tips for tour guide and Driver

Good to Know

Will there be anybody at the airport to pick us up?

Will we also get drop off services?

In Kathmandu, where will we be accommodated?

Will we be able to upgrade our Hotel in Kathmandu, Pokhara, Lumbini and Chitwan?

Can we fly instead of driving?

Would we be able to make changes in the tour itinerary?

Is this tour available for privately?

For Chitwan tours, can we do elephant back riding?

Will you provide mineral water on the tour?

How safe is it to take internal flights?

What type of vehicle do you use for the tour?

How knowledgeable are the guides for this tour?

When will be best time to do a glimpse of Nepal Tour?

Is entrance fee of the heritage sites included in the price or not?

Is it necessary to make a down payment to the reserve a place on these tours?

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

Welcome to Kathmandu! Once you land at Kathmandu airport (Tribhuvan International Airport), retrieve your luggage and go through customs (visa, etc.). Then get to the arrival terminal. You will find our representative waiting to greet you. He/she will be holding an Accessible  Adventure   signboard with your name on it. A comfortable private transfer will take you to the reserved hotel. After checking in, we suggest you have a good rest for the remainder of the day to recover from the jet lag. Overnight in Kathmandu hotel.

 

Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing: Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swoyambhunath, Pashupatinath, Boudhanath

Today after breakfast we start a guided tour to these four medieval and spiritual sites in Kathmandu which are also listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

 

Durbar Square: Durbar Square is a complex of historic palaces, courtyards and temples, built between the 12th and 18th centuries, used to be the Royal palace compound of the ancient Malla kings of Kathmandu. Interesting pieces here to see are 17th century stone inscription set into the wall of the palace, Taleju temple-tallest of all structures built by king Mahendra Malla in 1549 A.D. , Jagannath temple- built in the 16th century, known for fascinating erotic figures carving I the wooden struts eaves, Kal Bhairav- one of the largest stone idol in Kathmandu representing the terrorizing aspects of Shiva, Statue of King Pratap Malla in praying gesture to Digu Taleju the royal family deity right across,  Kumari Ghar- 17th century Kumari temple, Kasthamandap- built from the timber of a single tree, Kathmandu derives its name from Kasthamandap. The entire Palace Complex is also known as Hanuman Dhoka named after a monkey god called Hanuman. One can see a huge stone statue of Hanuman painted all red right next to the main entrance (the golden gate) of the palace. Hanuman here is regarded as a powerful protector of the entire Durbar Square.

 

Bouddhanath: Bouddhanath, a Buddhist shrine in unique octagonal Mandala design with hundreds of prayer wheels and the 108 images of the Buddha set into the niches around the huge structure.  Bouddhanath Stupa is one of the large Stupas in the world.  Bouddhanath is also famous for over 50 Tibetan monasteries, thus the area is also known as ‘Little Tibet’. You can join the locals to circumambulate the Stupa, bargain for handicrafts in the shops or sit on a rooftop restaurant and absorb the atmosphere.

 

Swoyambhunath: Popularly known as Monkey temple due to profusion of monkey found in the shrine area, Swoyambhunath is a 2000 years ancient Stupa situated on a small hill. It is world’s most celebrated Buddhist shrine and its main temple is capped by a pinnacle of copper gilt and is painted on the four sides with all seeing eyes of Lord Buddha. Included Meal: B

 

Pashupatinath: Pashupatinath Temple is one of the most significant Hindu temples of Lord Shiva in the world located on the bank of the Bagmati River. It is a square two tiered pagoda temple built on a single tier plinth which is famous all over the world. Although entrance into the temple complex is allowed to Hindus only, you can clearly see the temple and the activities from the eastern bank of the Bagmati River. Besides being a place of worship, the bank of Bagmati River alongside Pashupatinath Temple is the most important cremation site for the Hindus in Nepal

 

Day 3: Bhaktapur and Patan sightseeing

We start our tour of two more UNESCO World Heritage Site cities adjacent to Kathmandu: Patan & Bhaktapur.  Patan is also known as The City of Fine Arts.  Patan Durbar Square is one of the places in the Kathmandu Valley where the medieval arts and architecture still remain in its original state.  The Durbar Square is full of ancient places, temples and shrines, noted for their exquisite carvings, mostly the Hindu and Buddhist monuments. Similarly, the medieval town of Bhaktapur, or the Town of the Devotees, preserves medieval arts, architecture, culture, and lifestyle to this date. One is sure to feel like travelling back into the past while walking along the Bhaktapur thoroughfares, squares and streets. Overnight at Kathmandu.  Included Meal: B

 

 

Day 4: Pokhara

We continue to Pokhara, a lake city 200 kilometers north-west from Kathmandu which is now about 6 hours drive from Kathmandu . Pokhra, also nicknamed as the Lake City, is not only Nepal’s but one of the most beautiful places on earth. The town offers magnificent views of Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Machhapuchhare, five peaks of Annapurna and others. Pokhara is also the gateway for trekking in the Annapurna Region. After arriving Pokhara, we spend free day hanging around Pokhara’s marketplaces, old bazaars, and landmarks. In the evening, we explore the surrounding of the lakeside areas and enjoy boating in Phewa Lake.  Overnight in Pokhara. Included Meal: B

 

Day 5: Sightseeing in Pokhara

We spend a full day to explore Pokhara. After breakfast, we make a full day sightseeing of Pokhara. Enjoy walking along the bank of Phewa Lake, admiring the stunning reflection of the Fish Tail Peak in the blue Phewa Lake waters. We also take a boat around the Phewa Lake which is the second biggest lake of Nepal. We take the boat across the lake to visit Bindyabasini Temple located at the center of the Lake and take an hour’s walk to the World Peace Pagoda. We also make a short visit to the Gupteshwar Gufa Cave (also called Shiva Gufa).  Some of the other places that we visit today include the Seti River Gorge, Devi’s Fall and the mountain museum etc.  Overnight at Pokhara. Included Meal: B

 

Day 6: Sarankot visit in the morning and drive to Chitwan

Early morning we drive/hike to the Sarangkot Hill to have the sunrise views over the Himalayas. We return to hotel and after breakfast we drive to Chitwan, 160 kilometers from Pokhara and a 5 hour’s drive into the mountains. All the way we descend down along the winding road on the river bank. This will be a journey along river banks with wonderful views of hills and rural Nepalese lifestyle. After checking in to the hotel and getting refreshed you will be briefed about full nature programs by our nature guide. Then we head on for activities. There will be a guided village walk and a walk on the banks of the Rapti River to watch the charming sunset views in the sub-tropical jungle. In the evening, dinner with cultural program by ethnic tribal people with their stick dance and tribal drums. Overnight at Chitwan. Included Meal: B, D

 

Day 7: Full Day at Chitwan National Park - Jungle activities

Early in the morning, we will be mounted on elephants for a jungle safari through dense grasslands to witness wildlife in its natural habitat. After breakfast, we visit the elephant stables and even enjoy bathing the elephants. During the afternoon we can drive through the jungles followed by a canoe ride down the Rapti River. While canoeing, we may get a close look at the Gharial and Mugger crocodiles along with fresh water dolphins, otters and varieties of water birds. Or,we may even go for bird watching or nature walks and come closer to a variety of wild flora and fauna found in the park. Overnight in Chitwan. Included Meal: B, L, D

Day 8: Drive back to Kathmandu (flight option is there with extra costs)

We drive back to Kathmandu today. Try to get left pane of your vehicle to enjoy the river gorges, greeneries, mountains, villages and terraces during the drive. In the evening, we will have a farewell dinner in a traditional Nepalese restaurant with cultural performance. Driving Time: 6-7 hrs. Accommodation: City Hotel. Included Meal: B, D

 

Day 09: Final Departure -Airport drop

Your Best of Nepal Tour is complete today. If you have some time left before your departure flight home, you can shop around Thamel for souvenirs for your friends and relatives.  Our airport representative will drop you at the international airport in Kathmandu for your departure flight from Nepal. We hope beautiful Nepal, the awesome Himalayan sceneries, the cultural experience you got along your Annapurna Panorama Trek will stay in your memory lifelong and you will go back home with a sense of conquest. Included Meal: B

Included

  • Four   nights accommodation in Kathmandu inclusive breakfast in 3 star hotel (Kathmandu Suite Home or similar)
  • Two nights’ accommodation in Pokhara including breakfast (Hotel Lake Star or similar)
  • Two nights and
  • three days of wildlife warfare activities inside Chitwan national park including all meals (Hotel Parkland or similar)
  • All tour activities as per the above program.
  • Surface transfer Kathmandu-Pokhara-Chitwan-Kathmandu by private car/van.
  • All our government taxes.
  • Official expenses.
  • Price Exclude
  • International airfare to and from Kathmandu
  • Personal gears
  • Lunch and Dinner (except in Chitwan is full board)
  • Extra night accommodation if needed
  • Travel and rescue insurance
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, internet, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water etc.)

Excluded

Meals not specified in the 'Meal Inclusions' in the itinerary'
International airfare
Nepal entry visa: you can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. (a multiple-entry tourist visa good for 30 days can be obtained by paying US $ 50 or equivalent foreign currency. Similarly, multiple-entry tourist visas for 90 days can be obtained by paying US $ 100. Please bring 2 copies of passport-size photos.)
Tips for tour guide and Driver

Good to Know

Will there be anybody at the airport to pick us up?

Will we also get drop off services?

In Kathmandu, where will we be accommodated?

Will we be able to upgrade our Hotel in Kathmandu, Pokhara, Lumbini and Chitwan?

Can we fly instead of driving?

Would we be able to make changes in the tour itinerary?

Is this tour available for privately?

For Chitwan tours, can we do elephant back riding?

Will you provide mineral water on the tour?

How safe is it to take internal flights?

What type of vehicle do you use for the tour?

How knowledgeable are the guides for this tour?

When will be best time to do a glimpse of Nepal Tour?

Is entrance fee of the heritage sites included in the price or not?

Is it necessary to make a down payment to the reserve a place on these tours?