Experience Nepali hospitality with a finesse and distinctive style: An enthralling personalised journey into the intricate world of art, spirituality, culinary delights of the Kathmandu Valley, the rich flora and fauna of Chitwan, the panoramic scenic beauty of Pokhara and a complete rejuvenation in the alpine forests of the Himalayas.
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Day 1
A Traditional Welcome
Arrival in Kathmandu at the Tribhuwan International Airport and traditional “Khada” welcome and transfer to the Hotel to enjoy a relaxing day in the serene surroundings and an oasis of calm of the Dwarika’s Hotel. As you swing open its graceful wooden gates, feel the bustling city outside melt away and immerse yourself into this oasis of calm. Dwarika's houses an extensive collection of artefacts dating back to the 13th century. It is home to some of Nepal’s best craftsmanship – capturing the beauty and essence of an ancient city. The flawless blend of Nepal’s heritage with its longstanding tradition of hospitality makes The Dwarika’s Hotel in Kathmandu an intimate experience of a refined Nepali lifestyle. Take a culture-rich step back into Nepal's history as you soak in the unique atmosphere.
Afternoon
In the late afternoon, visit Boudhanath Stupa, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a spiritual home to the Tibetan exile community in Nepal. Considered to be one of the world’s largest and ancient Buddhist stupas, located on the original trade route leading to Lhasa. Apart from its religious interest the life around the Stupa is colourful, unique and vibrant and has a wide array of Tibetan antiques, brocades and jewellery.
After circumambulating the Stupa embark towards Shechen Monastery for evening prayers, located near the Stupa in the alleys, this is a beautiful Monastery famous for its architecture, founded by the late Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche. Most Buddhist monasteries welcome visitors and entering these atmospheric buildings can be a powerful and evocative experience. During the evening prayers, the lamas (high-ranking Tibetan Buddhist monks) and novices gather to chant Buddhist texts, normally accompanied by a cacophony of crashing cymbals, thumping drums and booming Tibetan horns.
Afterwards head towards the roof of a small Café to enjoy the sunset views over the Boudhanath Stupa with the Himalayas in the backdrop.
Dinner at leisure (on own) and overnight at The Dwarika’s Hotel
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Day 2
A Breath-taking Mountain Flight: Optional Early morning: 1 hour approx Mountain Flight or Helicopter Flight to Everest for about 3 hours (optional)
Morning
No other country can rival Nepal’s concentration of high peaks. The one- hour flight offers a spectacular panorama of some of the world's highest peaks, Makalu, Lotse, Gauri Shanker, Langtang. Amadablam and numerous others that float below you (5500m to 8848m). This flight operates mornings only from Kathmandu and window seats are guaranteed during this flight.
Afternoon
After lunch amble down and stroll the nooks and corners of the Patan Durbar Square and the exquisite Patan Museum, set within the restored royal palaces of the Malla Era. Revel in this ancient city of Patan popular for its astonishing collection of carved temples, palace courtyards, water spouts, public baths and traditional neighbourhoods as well as elaborate wood, stone and metal carvings. A walk through the heritage of the Newari architecture and ancient urban designs.
Afterwards, visit the abode of the Shiva, Pashupatinath, the oldest and most holy Hindu temple in Nepal. This sacred Hindu temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, sits on the banks of the holy Bagmati River. The river plays a significant role the life of the Nepalese as rituals centre around this holy river that flows into the river Ganges. Only Hindus are allowed to enter the temple and its courtyard, tourists can enjoy the sights and sounds of the temple from the eastern side of the river. Witness the glorious Arati, an elaborate Hindu lighting ritual which is performed every evening by a Hindu priest. The priests perform the Aarati by taking oil lamps and moving them in circular motion and dedicating their act to the Divine. This is a ritual that allows everyone to be a part of it and creates an environment of union of God and the devotees.
Dinner at leisure (on own) and overnight at The Dwarika’s Hotel
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Day 3
Fly Kathmandu/Pokhara and in the lap of nature
Trek to Basanta Lodge, Dhampus (5000 ft / 1525 m).
Departure transfer to domestic airport for a short flight ( 25 mins) to Pokhara and upon arrival receive and transfer by road with guides & porters to Phedi or Ghattekhola, our trek start point (30-40 minutes’ walk). Our walk will take us up the terraced hillside to Dhampus. We arrive at the Basanta Lodge for lunch. (Trek time 2 hours). From the lodge, there are sweeping views of the entire Annapurna Range. After lunch at the lodge there will be an optional walk through the old village of Dhampus.
Dinner and Overnight Basanta Lodge, (L, D)
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Day 4
Trek to Landruk (5415ft /1565m)
After breakfast, our walk contours the side of the hill, bringing us up to the ridgeline. We’ll have a short break in the village of Pothana at 1890m where many Tibetan traders live and sell their souvenirs. Our walk then descends through sub-tropical forests that include tree orchids, rhododendrons and magnolias. Pass through the village of Tolka at 1700m. Trek time is about 6 hours. If time permits, your guide will take you on a exploration hike of this mountain village.
Dinner and overnight La Bee Lodge (B, L, D)
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Day 5
Trek to Himalaya Lodge, Ghandruk (6,600ft/2,012m).
After breakfast, we leave the La Bee Lodge & walk downhill for about 2 hours & then head uphill for another 2 hours (total 4hrs walk). Buffaloes and goats graze in the surrounding fields and you may have to make way for the donkey and mule trains that convey goods to and from the Gurkha settlements. You may also meet some of the trekkers coming down from or heading up. It is from this lodge that there are magnificent close up views of the surrounding mountains - Annapurna South, Annapurna 1, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and the Fishtail. Our guide will take you on an exploration of this mountain village and the surrounding countryside. Ghandruk was once a major recruitment centre for the famous Gurkha soldiers. The women of Ghandruk maintain a local industry of weaving traditional Nepalese rugs.
Dinner and Overnight Himalaya Lodge (B, L, D)
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Day 6
Trek to New Bridge, Transfer to Pokhara (3300 ft/1000m)
After breakfast, we leave the Himalaya Lodge walking out through the village of Ghandruk. We continue descending for about 2 or 3 hours until we reach Shauli Bazaar. From here, we follow along the Modi River until reaching the Sanctuary Lodge. We’ll have lunch at the lodge, after early lunch leave Sanctuary Lodge walking out through the village of Birethanti continue along the Modi River until we reach New Bridge (about 45minutes). This is where we meet our vehicle. From New Bridge we will return to Pokhara by vehicle, a 1 ½ hour journey. 4hrs trek & 1.5 minutes’ drive. Rest of the day free
Overnight at Temple Tree Resort or similar
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Day 7
Fly back Kathmandu/ Visit Bhaktapur
Depart hotel in the morning for your onwards flight to Kathmandu. Pick up and drive to Bhaktapur, and gain a deep insight into the history and thriving culture of this picturesque city. Kathmandu Valley’s most carefully preserved medieval city, Bhaktapur is an architectural delight. Meander past homes and courtyards that are ancient revel in the sight of Hindu and Buddhist deities at every turn. Visit the Pottery Square to witness local artisans at work before lunch and try your hand at traditional local pottery.
Rest of the day free
Evening
Enjoy 6 course Nepali dinner at Krishnarpan Restaurant at Dwarika’s Hotel
Overnight at The Dwarika’s Hotel
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Day 8
Departure and transfer to the airport for your departure flight.
