Welcome to Nepal! Your adventure begins in Kathmandu, the country’s exhilarating capital. On arrival, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Join an important welcome meeting with your leader and small group at 6pm. If you arrive with time to spare, perhaps take a walk around the Garden of Dreams, a neo-classical oasis in the heart of the city, or check out the futuristic Taragaon Museum, showcasing the intriguing history of Kathmandu’s architecture. After your meeting, head out into the hustle and bustle of the Thamel and Jyatha neighbourhoods for an included dinner with your leader and group. Eating in Nepal is never boring, and upon arrival at the authentic Nepali restaurant, you’ll discover a deliciously diverse array of dishes. Have a taste of some Woh, a pancake made from freshly ground black lentils, or Kukhurako Masu, chicken cooked Nepali style.
After breakfast this morning, explore Kathmandu on a sightseeing tour with your leader. Head to the lively Durbar square, the once glorious centre of Nepal’s royal power. Visit Bodhnath Stupa, one of the biggest Buddhist shrines in the world, where you can observe Buddhist monks in prayer in the surrounding monasteries. Stop by a Thangka painting studio and gain inside knowledge on this sacred and traditional form of Buddhist art and the training that gs into being a Thangka artist. Visit Pashupatinath, the most famous Hindu temple in the country, where you will see Hindu holy men meditating, pilgrims bathing, and occasionally funeral pyres burning on the ghats. The rest of your afternoon is free for further explorations.
This morning, set off for a truly special experience that is sure to be one of your enduring memories of Nepal. Visit the headquarters of Seven Women, a social enterprise that works to improve the lives of disadvantaged women in Nepal. Meet the local women and hear how the enterprise has changed their lives. Tour their greenhouse and learn about Nepali vegetables, then learn some traditional recipes that have been passed down from generation to generation. Master the local methods of cooking and put together some classic dishes, then sit down to lunch with your new friends. After lunch, begin the journey to Nagarkot. Along the way, stop off at Bhaktapur, a beautifully preserved ancient city and host to a wondrous range of temples and statues. Explore three of the most important squares, Durbar Square, Taumadhi Square and Pottery Square, before continuing to Nagarkot, where you'll prepare for an overnight stay at Club Himalaya, renowned for its unrestricted view of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Changu Narayan and the surrounding areas. End the day with a toast to your fabulous view over sunset cocktails.
Wake up and witness an early morning 180-degree sunrise view before travelling to Kathmandu airport by chartered coach. From here, you will fly to Pokhara – if you’re lucky you might catch a glimpse of the spectacular Himalayan mountain chain to the north. On arrival, take a boat ride across the lake of Phewa Tal, the second largest lake in Nepal. The visit to the Peace Pagoda afterwards grants excellent views of the mountains including the Annapurnas, the famous fishtail peak of Machhapuchhare and a glimpse back across to Pokhara. In the afternoon, perhaps take some time to enjoy Pokhara’s mellow atmosphere and wander its colourful streets, or take a stroll along the scenic lake and see the brightly painted paddle boats bobbing in the water. Pokhara has no shortage of restaurants to tempt your taste buds so be sure to ask your leader for some great local recommendations.
Start the day with a visit to Sarangkot Viewpoint for a sunrise over the snowcapped Himalayan peaks, from the Annapurna Ranges to Fishtail Mountain (Machhapuchhre). Your leader will be on hand to answer any questions about the inspiring landscape as you marvel at the sweeping vistas. Then head to the International Mountain Museum, which is full of fascinating tales and exploits from climbing expeditions of the past – some ending in triumph and others in tragedy. After some time at the museum, make a visit to a Tibetan community. Hear stories of their journey from Tibet to Nepal, learn about local life and take part in a traditional cooking demonstration to find out how to make delicious momos (steamed dumplings), which you will then eat together for lunch. Enjoy a free evening in Pokhara.
After breakfast, make the morning drive to Chitwan and arrive at your Feature Stay accommodation for the next two nights, Barahi Jungle Lodge. Perfectly positioned on the banks of the Rapti River, opposite Chitwan National Park, this jungle oasis offers first-class service and naturally warm Nepali hospitality. After settling in, there’s some flexibility with activities in the afternoon, which may vary depending on the time of year and known wildlife movements and locations. In the late afternoon, you might like to make your way down to the Rapti River and enjoy a cool beverage and snacks on the banks while you watch the sun set and the birds return home. Back at the resort, you’re in for a real treat with a delicious group dinner this evening. Feel a world away from it all while the chirping of crickets serenades your dinner and you swap stories with your fellow travellers.
After breakfast, leave the lodge for an early morning dugout can adventure on the Rapti River. Your tour leader will help you spot marsh mugger crocodiles along with the various birds that inhabit the riverbanks. Tiger sightings are rare these days, but the magnificent creatures inhabit the park so it’s not to be ruled out. Upon your return to dry land, set out on a late afternoon safari - an experience like none other, showing the varied and exciting flora and fauna of the park. In the evening, enjoy dinner with your group and relax at your accommodation’s fabulous bar while discussing the day’s sightings or listening to the song of the jungle.
Enjoy breakfast at the resort before driving back to Kathmandu. The afternoon is yours to enjoy, so perhaps engage in some shopping or learn more of Nepal’s cultural heritage during a visit to the Nepali Folk Musical Instrument Museum, home to more than 650 unique instruments. This evening, you may wish to join your leader and group for a farewell dinner at a fantastic local restaurant, leaving you with a final memory of Nepal’s beautiful and traditional food.
Your Nepali adventure comes to an end after breakfast today. If you would like to extend your stay in Kathmandu, additional accommodation can be arranged in advance (subject to availability), Your leader will be on hand to advise and assist with any onward travel arrangements.
