Nepal's Top Attractions Unveiled

After breakfast at the hotel, depart for a full-day sightseeing tour to the charming villages of Bugumati and Khokana, five kilometres south of Patan. Pass terraced rice fields, tree clumps and open ponds to reach a medieval oil press and a prominent temple dedicated to Shekali Mai, one of the Valley's nature goddesses.

In the afternoon, return to Patan and visit Patan Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Lalitpur, just south of Kathmandu. Once the seat of the Malla dynasty, it served as the centre of political and cultural life in the region. Explore the palace complex littered with ancient carved shrines, including the Taleju, Bhimsen, Krishna Temple and museums and galleries showcasing Nepal's rich history and cultural heritage. Receive blessings from the House of Kumari, The Living Goddess, a chosen virgin manifesting the divine female energy or Shakti. Later, head to the Tibetan Singing Bowl & Healing Center for a session in sound healing using handmade Tibetan bowls. The vibrations of the bowls are said to cure headaches, back pain, stress and insomnia.

After breakfast, board the vehicle and drive 6.25 miles to Changu Narayan Temple, the oldest temple in the Valley. Built during the 4th century by the Lichhavi rulers as a Vishnu temple, it perches on a hill overlooking the nearby city. Look for one of the oldest Lichhavi period stone inscriptions and the finely carved stone image of Vishnu with ten heads and ten arms. Later, hike from Changunarayan to Telkot, following a ridge with sweeping valley views and the Himalayas. In the evening, stroll through Bhaktapur city with a local to familiarise yourself with the everyday lifestyle of residents. 

An evening with a Craftsman (Shilpakar)

Optional

Bhaktapur Heritage Walk

Optional

Pottery Class

Optional

Early morning at 06 am, join a local lady to witness the prayer rituals in the temples of Bhaktapur. At the Manjubaha Temple, light up oil lamps and offer salutations to the deities. On the way back, buy seasonal vegetables and meats. After breakfast, explore Bhaktapur Durbar Square, the abode of the Malla dynasty till 1769. The "City of Devotees" was renowned for its elegant art, fabulous culture, colourful festivals, traditional dances and typical Newari lifestyle. Visit the Royal Palace, the Golden Gate, and the entrance to the Palace of 55 Windows, Nepal's most significant piece of art. Head to the highest temple in Kathmandu Valley, the Nyatapola Temple, to admire centuries-old pagoda-styled construction. In the evening, accompany a local family to their house to help cook a traditional meal. Interact with the host and learn about their wood carving experience and contribution to restoration after the earthquake.

An evening with a Craftsman (Shilpakar)

Optional

Bhaktapur Heritage Walk

Optional

Pottery Class

Optional

After breakfast, drive 30 kilometres from central Bhaktapur to the little village of Namo Buddha. Surrounded by fresh air and clear skies, treat yourself to interesting cultural and hiking attractions, including the Thrangu Tashi Yantse Monastery (home to around 250 monks) and the Namo Buddha Stupa. Hike for 2 kilometres to reach the monastery and spend your time exploring the monastic life.

Rise early to witness a spectacular sunrise over the Himalayas, then engage with the monks in the morning prayer session. After breakfast at the monastery, spend the day chanting prayers and interacting with monks. Learn about the Tibetan medicine clinic and the onsite school.

After morning prayers and breakfast at the monastery, board the vehicle and drive to Panauti or hike through ethnic villages for 3 to 4 hours. Panauti village stands in a peaceful valley roughly six kilometres south of Banepa at a junction of the rivers Roshi and Pungamati. This town is relatively untouched by modernization and traditional Newar festivals. Get close to the authentic lifestyle of the Nepali people, socialize with villagers and breathe the fresh air of the lush Panauti Valley. Stay in a local home for an authentic Nepali experience with basic but comfortable facilities. You will always remember wearing traditional Nepali dress, cooking and eating local recipes, and laughing with your host family. You may even plant rice in the field with your host family, collect fruit and vegetables from their garden, or learn Nepali words.

After breakfast, transfer to the starting point of the heritage walk towards Kathmandu's Durbar Square. The walking trail passes through local markets and temples to the old city, with plenty of opportunities for photography. Arrive at the old Market of Ason packed with Nepali spices and vegetables. Carry on to the centuries-old market of Indra Chowk, specializing in aromatic herbs, textiles, beads, bangles, and ornaments for traditional Nepali weddings. You will see several temples, including Seto Machhendranath with intricate wood carvings and Aakash Bhairav guarded by lion statues. Spend the afternoon shopping for souvenirs at the tourist hub of Thamel.

After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy free time before check-out and transfer to the airport for your flight.