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Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu

We will pick you up at the airport and transfer you to the hotel. The rest of the day is free time to explore in Thamel, the commercial centre in Kathmandu. 

In the evening, you will be treated with a welcome dinner, including traditional Nepali food and dance performance, at a lovely Nepali restaurant.

 (Meal included: Welcome dinner.  Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu)

Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing

Take an optional Everest Mountain Flight (1-hour) in the early morning, if weather permits. 

Optional:

A Nepali special, Everest Mountain Flight is a great way for travelers of all categories to witness the spectacular mountain scenery in the Himalayan range, especially for those who have a time constraint and those who do not want trekking.

Shortly after taking off from Tribhuvan International Airport, some of the world’s famous mountains will be presented to you in sequence, and some of these glorious mountains are yet to be conquered: Gosaithan (8,013m), Dorje Lhakpa (6,966m), Gauri-Shankar (7,134m), Chugimago (6,297m), Numbur (6,956m), Karyolung (6,511m), Cho-oyu (8,201m), Gyanchungkang (7,952m), Pumori (7,161m), Nuptse (7,855m), and finally the world’s highest mountain Everest (8,848m).

Floating over the snow covered world’s highest mountains Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu, the spectacular views of the Himalayas will make you feel on top of the world.  This 1-hour scenic flight provides sensational flying experience, which will stay in your memory for the rest of your life. 

After breakfast, we will take a guided tour in Kathmandu Valley to four UNESCO World Heritage sites.  Explore Hindu and Buddhist temples, pagodas, palaces and monuments.  Treat yourself with a feast of cultural heritage and finest artworks.

Patan Durbar Square, also known as Lalitpur, is the oldest of the three royal cities in Kathmandu Valley.  Patan is home to fine arts and famous for its rich cultural heritage.  You will enjoy the beautiful woodcarvings and metal statues in Patan Durbar Square and learn about the history of this old royal palace.

Swayambhunath, also known as Monkey Temple, is a great example of religious harmony in Nepal.  Along with the oldest stupas of its kind in Nepal, there are numerous shrines and monasteries. Legend has it that the glory of Kathmandu Valley started from this place. This site overlooks Kathmandu Valley, providing a great panoramic view of the capital city.   Let the playful monkeys that wander freely in the temple amuse you. If you are into art, take time to visit the Thangka Painting School located in one of the towers. The exquisite Tibetan Buddhist art form is a guaranteed eye-opener.

Bouddhanath Stupa (or Bodnath Stupa), the largest stupa in Nepal, is one of the largest Buddhist shrines in the world.  It is also the holiest Tibetan Buddhist temple outside of Tibet.  Built in the 14th century, Bodnath Stupa is the centre of Tibetan culture in Kathmandu and offers rich Buddhist symbolism.  

Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest temples, is worshiped both by Hindus and Buddhists.  It is the most important temple dedicate to god Shiva.  It is believed those who die in Pashupatinath Temple are reborn as a human, no matter how they behave when they are alive.  Thus, every year, many elderly Hindus come here in the last few weeks of their lives, to die and to be cremated on the banks of the sacred river Bagmati. 

The tour will finish in the mid-afternoon.  Then it will be free time for you to explore Kathmandu further. Walk on the narrow streets in Thamel and enjoy window shopping of Nepali specialties.  You can also escape to the historical and tranquil Garden of Dreams for a pleasant stroll.

 (Meal included: breakfast.  Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu)

Day 3: Kathmandu to Pokhara

Drive from Kathmandu to Porkhara (5 to 6 hours depending on traffic).  We can take an optional whitewater rafting in Trishuli River (extra 4 hours)  For those who do not want to participate, you can stay on the bus which will take you down on the road along the river and meet the group at the rafting exit point.

Optional:

Trishuli River Whitewater Rafting

Nepal is one of the best countries for whitewater rafting thanks to the highest peaks in the world.  Melting snow and rain during the monsoon season crash down through foothills and into rivers, making rapids perfect for rafting.

Trishuli River is one of the popular rivers in Nepal for whitewater rafting. Outside the monsoon season, it offers Class I to Class III rapids for an exciting yet not overly challenging rafting experience.  Spectacular scenery and beautiful white beach along the river are just cherry-on-top.  The river will take you through a few scenic valleys and gorges.  Villages along the river will also provide you an opportunity to glimpse the local people’s life and culture.

You will be provided with necessary rafting equipment, safety instruction, and a brief lesson on how to use a paddle before starting this exciting adventurous activity.  You will spend approximately two hours on the river, with a stop at a beach for a break and maybe a picnic lunch. The beaches along the river are fantastic!

(Meal included: Breakfast.  Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara)

Day 4: Pokhara

Pokhara, a gateway to the Annapurna area, is considered to be the most beautiful place in the world.  After breakfast, we will take a boat ride in Phewa Lake to enjoy this charming lake, and visit Tal Barahi Temple which is a 2-storey pagoda on a little island. Afterwards, we will take a leisure walk around the Phewa Lake and further enjoy the charm of Phewa Lake.

The afternoon is your free time to explore the city.  You can rent a small boat (at own cost) to paddle in the Phewa Lake, and enjoy the beautiful lake with the stunning Annapurna mountain range at the background, and watch the sunset from the lake.

You can also take the exciting activity of paragliding, taking off at Sarangkot and landing on the lakeside of Phewa Lake.

Optional:

Paragliding in Pokhara.  Paragliding is a thrilling way to view the beauty of Sarangkot and Phewa Lake.  While wind brushes your face and floats you in the air, you are as free as an eagle to enjoy a bird’s eye view of the Phewa Lake and fantastic views of the snowcapped Annapurna mountains.  It is definitely a sensational and memorable experience.

No previous aviation experience is required as you will be seated in a harness which is attached to the pilot’s and to the wing.  All you need to do is to sit back and relax, enjoy the amazing feeling of flying and great views, and take pictures if you want.

What this activity offers is not limited to the exciting flying experience.  The take-off location is at Sarangkot where you can overlook the city of Pokhara and the charming Phewa Lake.  The landing spot is at the lakeside of Phewa Lake, known for spectacular sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayas.

 (Meal included: Breakfast.  Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara)

Day 5: Pokhara

In the early morning around 4:30am, a private vehicle will pick you up at your hotel and drive to a small hilltop at Sarangkot.  Sarangkot is regarded as a fantastic place to see sunrise and sunset. When the sun peeks out and adds a golden hue on the snowcapped mountains in the Annapurna range, you will be amazed by this wonderful gift that God brings to you.  We will see Mt. Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre (nicked named as Fish Tail), and other peaks if the weather is clear.  The views of Pokhara valley is astonishing there. 

On the way from Sarangkot back to the hotel, we will stop by Bindhyabasini Temple, the most popular Hindu temple in Pokhara.  Bindyabasini Temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhawani that is worshipped daily in the temple.  You can get a great view of Pokhara City and the Himalayas from the temple.

After breakfast and a short rest, we will take a guided tour to some of the main attractions around the city. 

International Mountain Museum: Visit the museum to learn about the history of mountaineering and the lifestyles of the Gurungs, Thakalis, Tharu and other ethnical groups in Nepal.

Devi’s Falls: with its Nepalese name of Patale Chango, which means “underworld waterfall”, Devi’s falls marks the point where the Pardi Khola stream vanishes underground.  The stream feeding the falls flows from a lake and traverses a tunnel before it enters the falls.  After viewing the falls, you can purchase coins at the ticket counter to toss in the popular wishing well of Goddess Manakamna Bhagwati for a good wish.

Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave:  The cave is Nepal’s most famous cave, containing two chambers with several shrines.  The cave has lighting but you will need a headlamp or torch to enjoy caving.  Look for nice colors on the walls when you are in the cave.

World Peace Pagoda is situated on the top of a hill on the southern shore of Phewa Lake.  It is a massive Buddhist stupa that offers great views of the Annapurna range and Pokhara City.  Hike up on the steps and take time to enjoy the fabulous views.

After visiting the World Peace Pagoda, we will hike downhill for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, and then take our bus back to the hotel.  You can opt to board on the bus at the foot of the hill instead of hiking.

In the late afternoon, the bus will take us to Sarangkot for the sunset.  Enjoy watching the snowcapped mountains fade in the dusk. The astonishing sunset view is a great way to wrap up this eventful day.

Note: The activities today could be adjusted to fit the weather and the group dynamics.

(Meal included: Breakfast.  Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara)

Day 6: Pokhara to Chitwan

We will have an early breakfast before boarding on a private bus which will take us on the winding road along the Trishuli River to Chitwan (5 to 6 hours depending on traffic).  Located about 175 km from Kathmandu, Chitwan is one of the few remaining undisturbed vestiges of the “Terai” region.  A UNESCO world heritage site, Chitwan National Park has rich flora and fauna. The park is home to one of the last populations of single-horned Asiatic rhinoceros and nocturnal royal Bengal tigers.

After checking in the hotel in Chitwan, we will take a tour of the village, walk on the banks of the Rapti River and watch the sunset from there.  Before dinner, we will enjoy a one-hour local tribal dance performance that is unique in the Chitwan region.

(Meals included: Breakfast and dinner.  Accommodation: Hotel / resort in Chitwan)

Day 7:  Chitwan National Park 

Today we will explore the Chitwan National Park.  Early in the morning before breakfast, we will go for bird watching in the national park.  After breakfast, we will have a canoe ride in the Rapti River to discover Gharial and Mugger crocodiles, fresh water dolphins, otters, pythons and a variety of water birds.  The canoe ride will be followed by a nature hike in the forest when we will be able to take a close look at wild flora and fauna in the park.  After the hike, we will visit the elephant breeding centre where baby elephants are born and raised before being released to the forests.

After lunch, we will take an elephant ride or jeep jungle safari in the dense forests of the park.  Look for animals like one-horned rhinos, deer, rhesus monkey, boars and many colored birds.  If you are lucky, you will see leopards, wild elephants and sloth bears.  If you are extremely lucky, you may spot a majestic royal Bengal tiger!

Note: The order of the activities may change depending on scheduling availability.

(Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.  Accommodation: Hotel / resort in Chitwan)

Day 8: Chitwan to Kathmandu

Today we drive back to Kathmandu (5 to 6 hours, depending on the traffic).  The road to Nagargkot winds along river banks where you will be able to see beautiful views and villages.

After we check in the hotel, you can take a rest or do some shopping in Thamel. 

(Meals included: Breakfast.  Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu)

Day 9: Kathmandu to Bhaktapur to Nagarkot

After breakfast, we drive to Bhaktapur for a guided tour

Bhaktapur, known as the City of Devotees, is one of the three royal cities in Kathmandu Valley.  In this ancient city, you will explore beautiful Hindu temples, pagodas and structures, including 55-window Palace, the Golden Gate and the Lion Gate. Take a detailed look at the exquisite sculptures and woodcarvings; wander around in the city to enjoy the display of magnificent local products, pottery, artworks; and shop for souvenirs. This tour provides an insight into the lifestyle of the ancient kingdom Bhaktapur.

After the tour, take time to wander around to have a taste of life in the city, and shop for souvenirs.  Lunch at a rooftop restaurant in Bhaktapur is also a memorable experience.

We will drive to Nagarkot from Bhaktapur after lunch.  Nagarkot is also known as a great place to see sunrise and sunset.  Enjoy the serenity and fresh air while watching the sun setting down.  At the Nagarkot view point, we will be able to see the Annapurnas, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Langtang and Shivapuri National Park if the weather is clear.  Mt Everest is at a far dance as well.

(Meals included: Breakfast.  Accommodation: Hotel in Nagarkot)

Day 10: Hike from Nagarkot to Changu Narayan, then drive back to Kathmandu

We will get up early in the morning and take the private bus to catch a sunrise. You grow your anticipation with the crowds on the viewpoint platform (2,195m).  There are always a few dogs sitting on the top of the path to the viewpoint platform, patiently waiting for the sunrise.  When the snowcapped mountains stand out from the dark, you will want time to stop. 

After breakfast in the hotel, we will start a day hike from Nagarkot to Changu Narayan, taking a downhill trail through terraced fields and passing stone houses.  Enjoy the quiet Nepali countryside views and learn about local life and culture. Chaugu Narayan Temple is one of the oldest temples in Nepal that was originally built in the 4^th century, and rebuilt in 1702 after a fire.  It is one of the seven UNESCO world heritage sites in Kathmandu.

You have a choice of hiking for 4 hours to Changu Narayan, or hiking for 2 hours to Telkot then taking our bus to Changu Narayan.  You can also opt out of hiking and take our bus to Chaugu Narayan.

We will drive back to Kathmandu after lunch at a local restaurant in Changu Narayan.  The afternoon will be free time for you to take a rest and shop for gifts and souvenirs before heading back home next day. 

In the evening, you will be treated with a farewell dinner and Nepali dance performance.  Make sure this time you entertain yourself by following the dance performers’ lead to learn Nepali traditional dance.

(Meals included: Breakfast and farewell dinner.  Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu)

Day 11: Depart or extend your stay

Depart at any time.  Our staff will drop you off at Tribhuvan International Airport. 

If your flight is in the afternoon and you did not have a chance to participate, the optional Everest mountain flight could highlight the day for you if you did not have a chance to take on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.  Ask our staff about it when booking this trip.

Optional:

Everest Mountain Flight (see details in Day 2)

If you wish to stay longer, there are many exciting tours or relaxing yoga retreat that you may be interested.  Ask our staff when you are booking the trip.

(Meals included: Breakfast.  Accommodation: None)

Price Includes

• - Airport / hotel transfers
• - Private vehicle between destinations for the activities included in the itinerary
• - All accommodation on a double occupancy basis
• - Breakfasts in Kathmandu, Pokhara and Nagarkot; all meals in Chitwan; and one welcome dinner and one farewell dinner
• - Entrance fees and an English-speaking guide for the Kathmandu sightseeing tour
• - Entrance fees and an English-speaking guide for the Bhaktapur tour

Price Excludes

• - International flight, travel insurance, visitor visa fee
• - All optional activities
• - Meals not mentioned (please allow for $100 - 150 USD for meals not included)
• - Personal trekking gear (available for rent)
• - Personal expenses
• - Tips for group leader, local tour guides and bus driver
• - Charges for excessive luggage on the flight Kathmandu to Pokhara
• - Any other extra costs due to unforeseen circumstances

Optional Activities to Book during the Trip

• Trishuli River Whitewater Rafting (Day 3)
• Paragliding in Porkhara (Day 4)
• Everest Mountain Flight (Day 2 or 11)

Suggested Activities or Tours for Extended Stay

• Bardian National Park
• Chitwan Nation Park
• Lumbini tour
• Yoga Retreat 

Weather Related

• Weather conditions in the Himalayas can change rapidly, which could result in alternations of the itinerary. Travelers need to be prepared for all weather conditions and changes in the itinerary if necessary.  The group leader will take their best effort to make your trip experience enjoyable.
• Domestic flights can be impacted by weather conditions. If the weather is not suitable for flying, ground transportation will be arranged.

Risk Related

The activities included may involve some degree of risk.  Obtaining travel insurance is highly recommended.

Clothing

• Long sleeve shirt (ideally quick-dry type), 2-3
• Hiking pants, 2-3
• Short sleeve T-shirt, 2-3
• Shorts, 2-3
• Jacket (ideally water resistant), 1
• Warm jacket (for mornings and evenings), 1
• Underwear
• Other casual and comfortable clothing

Footwear or Other Clothing Accessories

• Hiking boots, 1 pair
• Walking shoes or sport shoes, 1 pair
• Slipper, 1 pair
• Light socks, 3-4 pairs
• Day backpack or shoulder bag, 1
• Reusable water bottle or thermal bottle, 1-2
• Head lamp or flashlight
• Sunglasses
• Sun hat
• Raincoat (nice to have)

Personal Hygiene and Skin Care

• Personal hygiene kit
• Skin care products
• Sunblock
• Travel tissue pack, a few packs

Documents and Money

• Flight e-ticket
• Passport and a copy of ID page
• Passport-size pictures, 1 (for visa application)
• Cash (for trip cost balance, tips, meals not included, personal expenses, shopping)
• Credit card / debt card
• Money belt
• Travel insurance policy document and contact
• Emergency contact information
• Hotel name in Kathmandu (need it when filling out Arrival Card at the airport)
• Travel agency’s contact info

Medicine and First Aid

• Medicine prescribed by the travel doctor
• Prescription medicine (if any)

Electronics

• Multi-volt adaptor
• Camera, charger, backup batteries and backup SD memory card
• Cellphone and charger