Nepal Highlights Tour

Detailed itinerary

• day 01
  Arrival in Kathmandu - First Glimpse of Nepal's Cultural Heart

  Your Nepal adventure begins upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. After completing immigration formalities and collecting your luggage, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your local guide and transferred to your hotel in a private tourist vehicle. Following a brief rest and orientation about your upcoming journey, take time to settle in and prepare for the cultural discoveries ahead.

  Duration: Arrival day | Activity: Airport transfer and orientation

  Points of Interest:

  • Welcome to Nepal’s capital city at 4,600 feet elevation

  • First glimpse of Kathmandu’s bustling streets and vibrant culture

  • Hotel orientation and trip briefing

  • Accommodation: Hotel
• day 02
  Kathmandu Heritage Discovery - UNESCO World Heritage Sites

  Embark on a guided tour of three iconic monuments in Kathmandu, all included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List. Begin at Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest shrines dedicated to Hindu god Shiva, where you’ll witness ancient rituals along the sacred Bagmati River. Continue to Kathmandu Durbar Square, a centuries-old royal courtyard where former palaces and temples stand in their former glory, offering a journey back in time through Nepal’s royal history. Conclude at Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, a Buddhist monastery perched on a hilltop providing panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley and a peaceful atmosphere for reflection.

  Duration: Full day | Activity: Cultural sightseeing and heritage exploration

  Points of Interest:

  • Pashupatinath Temple – sacred Hindu pilgrimage site

  • Kathmandu Durbar Square – medieval royal architecture

  • Swayambhunath Stupa – ancient Buddhist monastery with valley views

  • Traditional Newari architecture and craftsmanship

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meal: Breakfast
• day 03
  Journey to Chitwan - Gateway to Wildlife Adventure

  Travel south to Chitwan National Park in a comfortable private tourist vehicle, enjoying scenic views of hills and forests throughout the five to six-hour journey. The route takes you from the Kathmandu Valley through changing landscapes as you descend toward the subtropical Terai plains. Upon arrival, settle into your jungle resort located within the national park boundaries, where the sounds of the wilderness welcome you to one of Nepal’s premier wildlife destinations.

  Duration: 5-6 hours drive | Activity: Scenic drive and arrival

  Points of Interest:

  • Changing landscapes from mountains to subtropical plains

  • First glimpse of Terai region’s lush vegetation

  • Arrival at Chitwan National Park boundaries

  • Introduction to jungle lodge accommodation

  • Accommodation: Resort
  • Meal: Breakfast & Dinner
• day 04
  Chitwan Wildlife Encounters - Jungle Safari Adventures

  Immerse yourself in the incredible biodiversity of Chitwan National Park with a full day of wildlife activities. Choose from elephant safari, jeep safari, wildlife watching, canoeing along the Rapti River, and cultural interactions with indigenous Tharu people. Every moment brings the possibility of spotting Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinoceros, sloth bears, leopards, and hundreds of bird species that call this pristine wilderness home. Experience the traditional lifestyle of the Tharu community, who have lived in harmony with the jungle for generations, learning their ancient traditions and conservation wisdom.

  Duration: Full day | Activity: Wildlife safari and cultural activities

  Points of Interest:

  • Bengal tiger and one-horned rhinoceros spotting opportunities

  • Diverse bird watching with over 500 species

  • Tharu cultural village visit and traditional dance

  • Rapti River canoeing through pristine wilderness

  • Jungle walking with naturalist guides

  • Accommodation: Resort
  • Meal: All Meals
• day 05
  Sacred Journey to Lumbini - Birthplace of Lord Buddha

  Travel west from Chitwan to Lumbini in a private tourist vehicle, a journey of approximately five hours through the peaceful Terai landscape. Lumbini holds profound significance as the birthplace of Lord Buddha, attracting Buddhist and Hindu pilgrims from around the world. Upon arrival, experience the serene atmosphere of this sacred site, where monasteries, temples, and the sacred garden create an environment of peace and spiritual reflection. Visit the Maya Devi Temple, marking the exact spot of Buddha’s birth, and explore the various international monasteries representing different Buddhist traditions.

  Duration: 5 hours drive plus sightseeing | Activity: Pilgrimage and spiritual exploration

  Points of Interest:

  • Maya Devi Temple – exact birthplace of Lord Buddha

  • Sacred Garden with ancient ruins and Ashoka Pillar

  • International monasteries from various Buddhist countries

  • Lumbini Museum showcasing Buddhist art and history

  • Peaceful meditation opportunities in sacred surroundings

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meal: Breakfast
• day 06
  Palpa Heritage and Pokhara Arrival - Mountains and Lakes

  Begin with a scenic three-hour drive to Palpa, traveling through the beautiful hill country to reach the historic city of Tansen. Explore this charming hilltop town known for its traditional Newari architecture, ancient temples, and spectacular panoramic views of the Himalayas. Tansen offers a glimpse into Nepal’s rich cultural heritage with its well-preserved palaces and temples. Later, continue your journey to Pokhara, Nepal’s most beautiful city, in just under four hours. Arrive in the lakeside area, renowned worldwide for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant tourist atmosphere, and magnificent mountain backdrop.

  Duration: 7 hours total drive with sightseeing | Activity: Cultural exploration and scenic drive

  Points of Interest:

  • Tansen’s traditional Newari architecture and heritage buildings

  • Spectacular Himalayan panorama from Palpa hills

  • Historic temples and palaces in Tansen

  • Arrival at Pokhara’s famous lakeside area

  • First views of Phewa Lake and Annapurna range

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meal: Breakfast
• day 07
  Sarangkot Sunrise and Pokhara Exploration - Himalayan Majesty

  Rise early for a short drive to Sarangkot hill station to witness one of the world’s most spectacular sunrises. From this vantage point, watch the first rays of sunlight illuminate the magnificent Himalayan peaks including Mount Annapurna, Mount Dhaulagiri, and Mount Manaslu, while Pokhara city and Phewa Lake spread out below in the valley. Sarangkot is also renowned as a premier destination for paragliding enthusiasts. Return to Pokhara for breakfast and spend the remainder of the day exploring the city’s attractions or simply relaxing by the lakeside, enjoying the mountain views and vibrant atmosphere.

  Duration: Early morning excursion plus leisure time | Activity: Sunrise viewing and relaxation

  Points of Interest:

  • Spectacular Himalayan sunrise over Annapurna range

  • Panoramic views of Mount Dhaulagiri and Mount Manaslu

  • Bird’s eye view of Pokhara Valley and Phewa Lake

  • Optional paragliding opportunities

  • Lakeside leisure and mountain photography

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meal: Breakfast
• day 08
  Pokhara Sightseeing - Natural Wonders and Cultural Sites

  Explore Pokhara’s diverse attractions with visits to Devi’s Falls, where the Pardi Khola stream disappears into an underground tunnel, and the mysterious Gupteshwar Cave with its impressive limestone formations. Continue to the World Peace Pagoda, a brilliant white Buddhist stupa offering panoramic views of the Annapurna range, Pokhara city, and Phewa Lake. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on Phewa Lake, visiting the Tal Barahi Temple situated on a small island. Pokhara offers excellent opportunities for shopping during the day and experiencing the vibrant nightlife, with numerous restaurants, bars, and cultural venues.

  Duration: Full day | Activity: Sightseeing and leisure activities

  Points of Interest:

  • Devi’s Falls underground waterfall phenomenon

  • Gupteshwar Cave limestone formations and religious significance

  • World Peace Pagoda with 360-degree mountain and lake views

  • Phewa Lake boat ride and Tal Barahi Temple visit

  • International Mountain Museum showcasing Himalayan culture

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meal: Breakfast
• day 09
  Return Journey to Kathmandu - Scenic Mountain Highway

  Embark on the scenic seven-hour journey back to Kathmandu via private tourist vehicle, traveling along serpentine mountain roads that offer breathtaking views of rivers, hills, and traditional villages. The route provides excellent opportunities for photography and cultural observation as you pass through diverse landscapes and communities. Stop for lunch at a scenic location along the way, enjoying local cuisine while taking in the mountain vistas. Arrive in Kathmandu by evening and settle back into your hotel, preparing for the final phase of your Nepal adventure.

  Duration: 7 hours drive | Activity: Scenic drive with cultural observation

  Points of Interest:

  • Serpentine mountain roads with spectacular views

  • Traditional villages and terraced hillsides

  • Rivers and valleys of central Nepal

  • Cultural diversity of hill communities

  • Photography opportunities throughout the journey

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meal: Breakfast
• day 10
  Southern Kathmandu Exploration - Temples and Gardens

  Venture to southern Kathmandu to explore Pharping, beginning with the sacred Dakshinkali Temple dedicated to goddess Kali. This popular Hindu pilgrimage site attracts devotees who believe prayers here will fulfill their wishes, and the temple’s architecture and spiritual atmosphere make it a fascinating cultural experience. Continue to the Gorakhnath Cave, a site holy to both Hindus and Buddhists, where you can explore the narrow cave and visit surrounding temples and monasteries. Conclude your day at Patan Durbar Square in Lalitpur district, another UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing prime examples of Newari architecture from the 1600s, with medieval temples, buildings, and statues decorating the former royal courtyard. Also visit the beautiful Godawari area, famous for its river, forest, wildlife, and serene environment.

  Duration: Full day | Activity: Cultural and spiritual exploration

  Points of Interest:

  • Dakshinkali Temple – sacred goddess Kali shrine

  • Gorakhnath Cave – Hindu-Buddhist pilgrimage site

  • Patan Durbar Square – medieval Newari architecture

  • Godawari botanical gardens and natural beauty

  • Traditional craftsmanship and cultural heritage

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meal: Breakfast
• day 11
  Heritage Sites and Nagarkot - Stupas and Hill Station

  Begin with a visit to Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in Nepal and another UNESCO World Heritage Site. This magnificent structure is believed to house relics of Lord Buddha and serves as a major pilgrimage destination for Tibetan Buddhists. Continue to Bhaktapur to visit Changunarayan Temple, Nepal’s oldest temple perched on a hilltop and surrounded by forest. This UNESCO site showcases exquisite wood and stone carvings representing centuries of artistic tradition. In the evening, drive to Nagarkot Hill Station, renowned for offering the best mountain views surrounding the Kathmandu Valley, including glimpses of Mount Everest on clear days.

  Duration: Full day with evening transfer | Activity: Heritage exploration and mountain station arrival

  Points of Interest:

  • Boudhanath Stupa – massive Buddhist pilgrimage site

  • Changunarayan Temple – Nepal’s oldest temple with intricate carvings

  • Traditional Tibetan Buddhist culture and practices

  • Nagarkot’s panoramic Himalayan views

  • Peaceful hill station atmosphere

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meal: Breakfast
• day 12
  Nagarkot Sunrise and Bhaktapur Heritage - Final Cultural Immersion

  Wake early to witness the spectacular sunrise from Nagarkot, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas including Mount Everest and the Annapurna range. The morning light illuminating the snow-capped peaks creates an unforgettable experience and perfect photography opportunities. After breakfast, visit Bhaktapur Durbar Square, the final UNESCO World Heritage Site on your journey. This remarkably well-preserved medieval city showcases traditional Newari culture and architecture, with ancient temples, courtyards, and monuments that transport you back centuries. The square represents the pinnacle of traditional craftsmanship and cultural preservation. Return to Kathmandu.

  Duration: Full day | Activity: Sunrise viewing, heritage exploration, and cultural celebration

  Points of Interest:

  • Nagarkot sunrise over Himalayan peaks including Mount Everest

  • Bhaktapur Durbar Square – medieval city preservation

  • Traditional Newari architecture and woodcarving

  • Cultural performances and traditional music

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meal: Breakfast
• day 13
  Leisure Day in Kathmandu - Personal Exploration and Relaxation

  Enjoy a free day to explore Kathmandu at your own pace. You might choose to revisit favorite heritage sites, explore the bustling streets of Thamel for shopping and souvenirs, visit additional temples or museums, or simply relax and reflect on your incredible journey through Nepal. This day offers flexibility to pursue personal interests, whether that’s photography, cultural exploration, spa treatments, or preparing for departure. In the evening, gather for a final farewell dinner celebrating your Nepal adventure with traditional cuisine and cultural entertainment.

  Duration: Full day leisure | Activity: Personal exploration and relaxation

  Points of Interest:

  • Thamel district shopping and cultural exploration

  • Optional visits to additional heritage sites

  • Souvenir shopping for traditional crafts and artwork

  • Personal reflection and journey documentation

  • Final cultural dinner celebration

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meal: Breakfast & Farewell Dinner
• day 14
  Departure - Farewell to Nepal

  After breakfast, enjoy final moments in Kathmandu before your departure transfer. Your private tourist vehicle will take you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey, carrying with you unforgettable memories of Nepal’s cultural treasures, natural beauty, spiritual significance, and warm hospitality. This comprehensive 14-day adventure has provided an authentic taste of Nepal’s diverse heritage, from ancient temples and royal palaces to wildlife encounters and mountain vistas.

  Duration: Departure day | Activity: Airport transfer and departure

  Points of Interest:

  • Final views of Kathmandu city

  • Reflection on 14 days of cultural and natural discoveries

  • Airport departure procedures

  • Memories of Nepal’s diverse landscapes and cultures

  • Meal: Breakfast