| Starts | Kathmandu, Nepal |
|---|---|
| Ends | Kathmandu, Nepal |
| Region | Himalaya |
| Duration | 11 days |
| Tour Operator | Peregrine |
Itinerary
Day 1
Kathmandu
- On arrival in Kathmandu, you will be met at the airport by our representative who will be waiting with a Peregrine sign.
- After you settle into the hotel there will be a briefing with your guide in the late afternoon, where you will discuss the trip details and co-ordinate any last minute arrangements.
- The evening is free, but your guide will organise dinner (optional) at one of Kathmandu’s fine Nepali restaurants.
Day 2
Kathmandu
- In the early morning you will make an attempt at the Mount Everest scenic flight. This amazing experience will take you over Sagamartha National Park, through a crescendo of the highest peaks in the world, climaxing with getting up close to Mount Everest.
- Late in the morning you will explore Kathmandu on an organised sightseeing tour. You will visit Bodhnath Stupa, one of the biggest Buddhist shrines in the world, where you can observe Buddhist monks in prayer in the monasteries surrounding the stupa.
- You will also visit Pashupatinath, the most famous Hindu temple in the country, located on the banks of the holy Bagmati River. Here you will see Hindu holy men (sadhus) meditating, pilgrims bathing, and occasionally funeral pyres burning on the ghats. The rest of your afternoon in Kathmandu is free for further sightseeing and exploration.
Day 3-4
Pokhara
- Today you will have an early departure from the hotel for your transfer to the domestic terminal at Kathmandu's Tribhuvan Airport. From here you will fly to Pokhara, with a flight time of about 30 minutes. There are often spectacular views of the main Himalayan chain to the north on this flight.
- On arrival you will take a boat ride across the lake (Phewa Tal), which is the second largest in Nepal. You will visit the Peace Pagoda, where you will enjoy excellent views of the mountains including the Annapurnas and the famous fishtail peak, Machhapuchhare, along with views back across to Pokhara.
- You will also visit the fascinating International Mountain Museum, where you will learn some amazing tales, and hear about the exploits of the various climbing expeditions in the past – some ending in triumph and some in tragedy.
- You will also have a free day for further exploration in the peaceful surroundings of Pokhara. Your tour leader can advise you of sightseeing opportunities.
- It is worth taking a boat for a row out on the lake. The lakeside area has great shopping opportunities and Internet cafés.
- Pokhara has an interesting old area as well as an elaborate Hindu temple and a Buddhist monastery.
Day 5-6
Bandipur
- In the morning you will drive to Bandipur. This traditional Nepalese settlement is a natural treasure and one of the hidden gems of Nepal.
- As tourism in Nepal developed along the main roads and airports, for over 30 years there simply was no road linking Bandipur to the main infrastructure, leaving it almost untouched by touristic influence.
- The village is saddled on a high ridge above Dumre, 700 metres beyond the Marsyangdi River Valley. It is gifted with an exceptional view of the Himalayan panorama. The surrounding hills are ideal for hiking along trails that will take you through tribal villages, verdant forests, 'power places', and hilltop shrines which once doubled as fortresses.
- You will fully explore this incredible settlement and take in the many opportunities to immerse in the culture of Nepal as it once was, enjoy the spectacular views, the incredibly maintained architecture and amazing trails.
Day 7
Chitwan National Park
- After breakfast you will be picked up and driven to Chitwan National Park (driving time: approx 4 hours). After arriving and settling in, you will be introduced to the camp staff and resident naturalists who will discuss the program.
- There is some flexibility and activities may vary depending on the time of the year, and known wildlife movements and locations.
- You may visit the elephant camp to see how their handlers, known as phanits, care for these beautiful creatures.
- A late afternoon safari will take you through forests and across grasslands to observe the varied and exciting wildlife in the park.
- In the early evening the local Tharu dance troupe may perform a cultural program. You will then enjoy dinner and afterwards you will be free to relax in the bar and discuss the day’s sightings or listen to the exotic sounds of the jungle at night.
Day 8
Chitwan National Park
- You will awake today to an early morning excursion. This could include either another safari to different parts of the park in search of the great Indian rhino, deer, and exotic bird life, or joining one of the other activities available at the park. Tiger sightings are rare these days, but these magnificent animals do inhabit the park.
- After breakfast you will leave the lodge for a dugout canoe adventure on the Rapti River. This is an exciting trip with chances to view marsh mugger crocodiles and various birds that inhabit the riverbanks.
- A program will be organised for you to fill the rest of the day, and may include further excursions by jeep or a visit to one of the nearby villages.
Day 9
Chitwan National Park - Bhaktapur
- If you are an avid wildlife lover, there is an optional early morning bird watching safari available today – a worthwhile addition to your trip.
- After breakfast you will drive on to Bhaktapur, which was once the capital of Nepal and the Great Malla Kingdom during the 15th century. Its rich heritage, inspiring temples and artisanal history played a big part in Bhaktapur being named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Enjoy an evening of exploration on your own, soak up the incredible atmosphere in one of the local cafes, or just relax in your hotel.
Day 10
Bhaktapur - Kathmandu
- Spend the day exploring Bhaktapur’s famous temples, starting at Durbar Square, which is reputed to be the most beautiful piece of art in Nepal. Durbar Square is home to the majestic Lion Gate and Golden Gate. You will also visit the Pashupati Temple, a replica of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu. This will be an enlightening morning of discovery and enrichment, as you truly delve into all Bhaktapur has to offer.
- In the afternoon you will drive to Kathmandu (driving time: approx 2 hours). The evening will be free but the group leader will usually organise an evening meal (optional) at another of Kathmandu’s great restaurants.
Day 11
Kathmandu
- Your trip officially comes to an end after breakfast today. Your guide will be on hand to advise or assist you with any onward travel arrangements.
