Spotlight On Nepal

Once considered as mystical and inaccessible as Hilton's Shangri-La, this landlocked country of valleys and peaks has attracted an astounding number of visitors for decades. From the endorsers of 'Flower Power' in the hedonistic 60s to the daring adventure traveller, Nepal has catered to the diverse needs of visitors in its own inimitable way.

The free-spirited hippies left their own mark here, a street that they named Freak Street. Kathmandu is situated in a valley full of historic temples, shrines and pagodas. It is a bustling, crowded city with hotels, bars and restaurants to suit all budgets.

The country extends from the Himalayan range in the North to the Indo-Gangetic lowlands in South. Mt. Everest, the highest point of the Himalayas is in Nepal and is a major attraction for serious mountaineers and tourists alike. The landscape offers a kaleidoscope of green paddy terraces, dense forests, marshy grasslands and mighty rivers. The plethora of options for adventure tourism include mountaineering, trekking, white water rafting, kayaking, jungle safaris, bungee jumping, paragliding and fishing.

Exciting wildlife tours are another attraction. Nepal is home to numerous national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. The Royal Chitwan Park is a favourite for its Elephants, Tigers, Leopards, Rhinos, Sloth Bears and 350 species of birds. The rich flora and fauna of the country is relatively undisturbed even today.

Beyond Kathmandu the smaller towns are easily accessible and spectacular in their own right. The natural scenic beauty of Pokhara and Dhulikhel is complemented by views of the most incredible sunrise and sunset. Bhaktapur is a devotee's delight, with its ancient temples built in the medieval style.

DETAILED ITINERARY

Day 01:
ARRIVE KATHMANDU
By: International flight

Arrive Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu in the morning. Our representative awaits you outside the arrival area and greets you by offering a *Khada (a traditional ceremonial scarf common in Buddhist culture, it symbolizes purity and compassion). Transfer for your hotel which is within 30 minutes’ drive on a regular day traffic.
After assisted check-in formalities you will have some time to freshen up.
(If time permits)
In the afternoon, you will visit two of the most important heritage sites of Kathmandu. Starting with the Boudhanath Stupa (a UNESCO World Heritage site); the 2500 years old Buddhist stupa in the valley was built in 5th century with four pairs of eyes of Lord Buddha in four cardinal directions keeping an eternal watch over the people and their doings. With a base of 82 meters in diameter, Boudhnath is claimed to be the largest Buddhist stupa in the world. Today, Bouddhanath bustles with Tibetan population, busy with carpet manufacture, trade, and prayers at the several monasteries belonging to different sects of Tibetan Buddhism. You will visit Thangka Gallery for an insight on the Buddhist Art of Thangka paintings.
Continue on to Pashupatinath in time to witness “Sandhya Aarati” – evening prayer performed by Hindu priests from across the river bank. Pashupatinath Temple (a UNESCO World Heritage site); the two-tiered pagoda with golden roofs and silver doors houses the sacred linga, or phallic symbol, of Lord Shiva. Until recently Nepal was officially a Hindu Kingdom, and Pashupatinath, which literally means “lord of all animals”, was considered the main protector deity of Nepal. As one of the forms of Lord Shiva, one of the three main gods of Hindu trinity, Pashupatinath draws many pilgrims and devotees from around the world especially on Mahashivaratri (the night of Lord Shiva) during spring. Entrance to the main temple is permitted to Hindus only, yet visitors can clearly see the temple and the activities performed on the temple premises from the eastern bank of the Bagmati River and the Arya Ghat cremation grounds. Near the Pashupatinath Temple on the banks of the Bagmati River lies Guheswari, where, according to mythology, a portion of Sati Devi, Lord Shiva’s consort, fell when a grief-stricken Shiva wandered aimlessly across the earth carrying her dead body on his shoulders following her self-immolation.
(The Bagmati River flows close by and the Arya Ghat cremation grounds are here. We strongly advise not to take photos of cremations and of bereaved families. Sadhus, sages who follow the lifestyle of Shiva, may be seen covered in ashes and loin-cloths. They ask for money in case you want to take their photos.)

Overnight in Kathmandu
Day 02:
KATHMANDU

EARLY MORNING OPTIONAL MOUNTAIN FLIGHT
After an optional early morning flight to Mount Everest, you will return to hotel for breakfast.
(The Mountain flight takes-off from Kathmandu airport in the mornings for an hour’s worth of spectacular mountain scenery)
Today you will discover what it was like to live in towns in medieval times. You will cover two ancient kingdoms of Kathmandu valley, Kathmandu Durbar Square and Patan Durbar Square from the time of the Malla Dynasty.
After driving for half an hour you will revel at this ancient satellite city exactly about time when people are just starting their day. Patan, also known as ‘Lalitpur’, the city of artisans, and home to the valley’s finest craftsmen who have preserved such ancient techniques as the repoussé and lost wax process used to produce exquisite sculptures. The city retains much of the old charm with its narrow streets, brick houses and multitude of well-preserved Hindu temples, Buddhist monasteries (vihars) and monuments. As in Kathmandu, Hinduism and Buddhism have co-existed here for ages, influencing each other, and the religious harmony is exemplary. Patan Durbar square is one of the seven monument zones that makes Kathmandu valley UNESCO World Heritage site.
You will visit Nepal’s living goddess Kumari in Patan. The word Kumari literally means “virgin” in Nepali. These living goddesses are young, pre-pubescent girls who are worshipped in Nepal by both Hindus and Buddhists as omnipotent deity and the manifestation of the Hindu goddess of power, Durga. They live a sheltered life until they reach puberty.
Your next stop is Kathmandu's central meeting area, Durbar Square, a profusion of temples reflecting the different architectural styles dating from the eleventh century. The area also includes the Royal Palace with its gilded gates and elaborate statues, all of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. The square is alive with a multitude of nationalities, intermingled with stalls displaying a wide variety of Nepalese and Tibetan handicrafts.
Later you will embark an exhilarating rickshaw ride of around 30 minutes from Hanuman Dhoka till Thamel through narrow alleys and observe local life from close range. Thamel becomes colorful & vibrant at this time of day with soft music played in shops, decorated shops with handicrafts, curio, silver jewelries, adventure gears and the list goes on. You will have some free time here to stroll around.
Overnight in Kathmandu

DAY 03:
: KATHMANDU - BHARATPUR (BY AIR) – MEHGAULI, CHITWAN
By: Surface

Flight hour: 20 min
Driving Distance: 32 km
Drive time: 1h 30 min
After breakfast, you will connect short domestic flight to Bharatpur, the gateway to Chitwan National Park.
The Chitwan National Park lies in the Inner Terai lowlands and consists of Sal forests, tall elephant grasslands, hills, ox-box lakes and flood plains of the Narayani, Rapti and Reu rivers. Enlisted as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (Natural) in 1984, the park spreads over an area of 932 sq.km. The park is home to 56 species of mammals, 49 species of amphibians and reptiles, and 525 species of birds. Wildlife found here include endangered species like the one-horned rhinoceros and the Royal Bengal tiger, gaur, wild elephant, four-horned antelope, leopard, sloth bear, wild boar, rhesus monkey, grey langur monkey, wild dog, small wild cats, and many other smaller animals. Also found here are cobras, kraits and pythons. The swampy areas and numerous oxbow lakes of Chitwan provide a home for the marsh mugger crocodiles. In a stretch of the Narayani River are found one of the few remaining populations of the rare and endangered fish-only eating gharial, or Gangetic crocodile. Also found here is one of the world’s four species of freshwater dolphins.
The park is a great place to watch colorful birds like woodpecker, hornbill, Bengal florican and red-headed trogon. Winter birds such as waterfowls, Brahminy duck, pintails and bareheaded geese are drawn by the sanctuary of the park’s rivers. In summers, the forest is alive with nesting migrants such as the fabulous paradise flycatcher, the Indian pitta and parakeets. Winter birds include migratory birds from Siberia.
In the afternoon, you will take an Elephant safari which remains a popular jungle activity in the Chitwan National park. Every elephant has a ‘Mahout,’ who serves as the animal’s caretakers, trainer and ‘driver.’ On the safari, the Mahout leads the elephant on a journey to seek out the forest’s wild animals in their natural setting. You may be lucky to go home with photographic proof of the prized one horned rhino, or even the Bengal tiger! For those who do not want to ride an elephant, a 4×4 Jeep Safari in another option to see the forest from closer to the ground. An experienced guide and naturalist will accompany the safari.
(Note: Jeep Safari is prohibited during monsoon season by the park authorities from June-September and in some season it can prolong till October)
In the evening, experience the vibrant traditional cultural performances of the Tharu community. The performances depict their culture, and the significance of their wardrobes in relation to their environment.

Overnight in Chitwan
DAY 04:
CHITWAN

Early morning you visit the Jungle to refresh your spirit of adventure on a guided walk through the national park, returning to the lodge in time for breakfast.
You will follow a full day true jungle experience with the in-house expert naturalists including Bird watching, Elephant bathing and canoeing. You will also visit the small village of Tharu ethnic group to get a sense of what their world and lives are like through interactions with the locals.
A special sundowner can be suggested at the confluence of the Rapti River amidst spectacular sunset view.
Overnight in Chitwan

DAY 05:
CHITWAN – POKHARA (9200m)
By: Surface

Driving Distance: 195 km
Drive time: 6 h
After breakfast, board the awaiting vehicle to the lake city Pokhara. .
Pokhara is the third largest city in Nepal, located 200km to the west of Kathmandu. Three out of the ten highest mountains in the world, including the renowned Annapurna are within 30 miles of the city, making it Nepal’s top trekking destination. It is an ideal place to relax, take walks in the surrounding hills, or engage in the more energetic pursuits of trekking or white-water rafting.
Excursion to Matepani Gumba during afternoon prayer session
Established in 1960 by the Manang community, Matepani Gumba houses about seventy monks from a variety of backgrounds and economic class. Young monks study Tibetan, English, Nepali and Math and follow the Kagyu Buddhist tradition. Daily prayer ceremonies honor the goddess Tara and god Mahakala. Members of the local community, predominately Gurung and Manang tribes, participate in and host puja for important events such as weddings and birthdays. It is an important religious and cultural site or heritage site of Pokhara. Overnight stay at hotel
Overnight in Pokhara

DAY 06:
POKHARA – AUSTRALIAN CAMP - DHAMPUS

Drive time: 1 h
Walking involved: 2 – 3 h
Level Easy
Altitude 1350 – 2000 – 1650 m
Breakfast at Hotel
Australian Camp Dhampus Village Tour starts after hot breakfast in Pokhara, an hour smooth drive from Pokhara takes us to Kande, the starting point of this short trekking of Australian Camp and Dhampus

Village trek. Australian Camp set on the beautiful hill top offers striking views over the valleys and stunning views of the Annapurna Mountain range. After driving about an hour, we start our hike from Kande. The trail is steep; through stone staircase for about 1.5 hours gets to Australian Camp, located on the ridge and having an incredible view of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre and Lamjung Himal. From Australian Camp we will hike down to continue through perfect jungle trail with birds chirping sounds our trek to continue to beautiful village Dhampus, takes about an hour. Dhampus village is on the Annapurna trekking trail is blessed with majestic views of the Annapurna Himalayan Range. The village is attractive, a number of slate roofed house. The trek is best for those wishing to experience Nepal mountain scenery and ethnic culture within a short time.
Overnight in Dhampus

DAY 07:
DHAMPUS - POKHARA

Walking involved: 1 h 30 m
Level Easy
Altitude 1350 – 2000 – 1650 m
Breakfast at lodge
After breakfast, we depart along the ridge & descend through the wooded hillside and terraced farmland to the valley floor (3300ft/1000m). Trek time 1 ½ hours. We then transfer by vehicle to Pokhara (30 minutes).
Enroute, we will take you to Tibetan Refugee camp.
If time permits, we will organize a visit to International Mountain Museum.
Overnight in Pokhara

DAY 08:
POKHARA – KATHMANDU
By: Flight

Flight hour: 25 min
After breakfast, you will transfer to airport for AM flight to Kathmandu
Arrive Kathmandu and check in at Hotel.
Lunch will be served at hotel.

In the afternoon, you will proceed to Bhaktapur - "city of devotees" in Nepali to discover the stories behind the temples and courtyards. Founded in the 12th century by King Ananda Malla, Bhaktapur rose to be city renown for culture, crafts and trading due to being a part of the ancient Indian trading route through to Tibet. The city retains much of its medieval charm and way of living and houses some of the best examples of Nepalese craftsmanship on wood and stone. Considered a living museum one can witness ancient traditions carried out even today in Potters square where the local potters use age-old techniques to make clay utensils. Bhaktapur Durbar square is one of the seven monument zones that makes Kathmandu valley UNESCO World Heritage site.
Overnight in Kathmandu

DAY 09:
DEPART KATHMANDU
By: International flight

Assisted transfer to the airport to connect your flight to onward destination.
                                                                      
                                                           End of services

Option - A

Hotel Envisaged or similar:

City

Hotels – Option A

Nights

Kathmandu   Hyatt Regency (Deluxe) 2
Chitwan Taj Safari (Meghauli ) 2
Pokhara Pavilions Himalaya (Pavilions Classic ) 1
Dhampus Basanta Lodge (Basic ) 1
Pokhara Pavilions Himalaya (Pavilions Classic ) 1
Kathmandu Hyatt Regency (Deluxe ) 1

Validity: 01 October To December’ 2016

Cost basis Prices – Option A
02 person on twin share basis USD 1840
03 person on twin share basis USD 1865
04 person on twin share basis USD 1785
05 person on twin share basis USD 1725
06 person on twin share basis USD 1685
Single room supplement (Single supplement is only applicable if you are travelling solo and/or have a room to yourself) USD 710
Half Board supplement (5 Dinner at Hotel) USD 170
Full Board supplement (5 Dinner at hotel & 5 Lunch at local restaurant) USD 310

Validity: 01 January To September’ 2017

Cost basis Prices – Option A
02 person on twin share basis USD 1865
03 person on twin share basis USD 1885
04 person on twin share basis USD 1810
05 person on twin share basis USD 1750
06 person on twin share basis USD 1710
Single room supplement (Single supplement is only applicable if you are travelling solo and/or have a room to yourself) USD 730
Half Board supplement (5 Dinner at Hotel) USD 175
Full Board supplement (5 Dinner at hotel & 5 Lunch at local restaurant) USD 325

Option - B

Hotel Envisaged or similar:

                                                                                 Hotels - Option B

City

Option B

Room Category

Nights

Kathmandu

Soaltee Crowne Plaza

Deluxe

2

Chitwan

Kasara

Lodge

2

Pokhara

Atithi

Deluxe

1

Dhampus

Basanta Lodge

Basic

1

Pokhara

Atithi Resort

Deluxe

1

Kathmandu

Soaltee Crowne Plaza

Deluxe

1

Validity: 01 October’ 2016 – 30 September’ 2017

Cost Basis  

Prices - Option B

02 person on twin share basis

USD 1290

03 person on twin share basis

USD 1315

04 person on twin share basis

USD 1240

05 person on twin share basis

USD 1185

06 person on twin share basis

USD 1150

Single room supplement (Single supplement is only applicable if you are travelling solo and/or have a room to yourself)

USD 540

Half Board supplement
(5 Dinner at Hotel)

USD 118

Full Board supplement
(5 Dinner at hotel & 5 Lunch at local restaurant)

USD 236

Option - C

Hotel Envisaged or similar:

                                                                                 Hotels - Option C

City

Option C

Room Category

Nights

Kathmandu

Himalaya Hotel

Deluxe

2

Chitwan

Jungle Villa

Lodge

2

Pokhara

Glacier

Deluxe

1

Dhampus

Tea House Lodge

Basic

1

Pokhara

Glacier

Deluxe

1

Kathmandu

Himalaya

Deluxe

1

Validity: 01 October’ 2016 – 30 September’ 2017

Cost Basis 

Prices – Option C

02 person on twin share basis

USD 960

03 person on twin share basis

USD 980

04 person on twin share basis

USD 910

05 person on twin share basis

USD 855

06 person on twin share basis

USD 820

Single room supplement (Single supplement is only applicable if you are travelling solo and/or have a room to yourself)

USD 295

Half Board supplement
(5 Dinner at Hotel)

USD 104

Full Board supplement
(5 Dinner at hotel & 5 Lunch at local restaurant)

USD 203

 

OPTIONAL CULTURAL CONNECTIONS

                                           ****Per Person Airfare - Subject to Change

Airfare Kathmandu – Bharatpur

USD 114

Airfare Pokhara – Kathmandu

USD 126

Mountain Flight (02 & above pax)

USD 200

*Mountain flight cost includes; roundtrip transfers from Hotel with our assistance to Airport and vice versa.

Cancellation Charge of USD 15 per person is applicable [If Flight Cancelled by Airlines]

map

Cost Includes

  • 03 night’s accommodation in Kathmandu on bed and breakfast basis on sharing twin
  • 02 nights’ accommodation in Chitwan on full board basis (all meals) with Jungle activities,
  • 02 night accommodation in Pokhara on bed and breakfast basis on sharing twin
  • 01 nights’ accommodation in Dhampus on full board basis (all meals)
  • All transfers and sightseeing tour as per the itinerary by vehicle
  • Service of Local English Speaking guide during the sightseeing tours in Kathmandu & Pokhara. English Speaking Naturalist in Chitwan during activities.
  • Monument Entrance Fee
  • National Park fee
  • 01 bottle (500ml) mineral water pp per day.

Vehicle used for transfers:

02 Pax

Medium Car (3 seater)

03-04 Pax

Van (6-8 seater)

05-06 Pax

Hiace (12 seater)

Cost Excludes:

  • Any airfares then quoted separately above
  • Visa Fee (US$ 25.00 per person payable directly by the clients at the airport for 15 days. 1
  • Passport size photographs required). Visa fee is Subject to change.
  • Any kind of insurance
  • Tips, Laundry, Telephone call etc.
  • Insurance of any nature
  • Anything which is not mentioned in the inclusions

Notes:

  • Hotel Check-In, Check-out time 1200 NOON
  • Rates include only those items specified in your itinerary.
  • All the above quoted rates are inclusive of existing taxes. Should there be any increase on tax structure, same will be additional.
  • The above rates are valid from 01 October’ 2016 to 30 September’2017

For Your Information

In case on any currency fluctuations or amendment in Nepal/ local Government taxes, or any fuel hike, we reserve the right to adjust the tour price accordingly.

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