Take a glimpse at Nepal in this short break that fits easily into a longer Indian or Asian holiday. Discover the cultural hotbed of entwined histories and fascinating cultural encounters that never disappoint, making it one of the most popular and sought-after destinations in South Asia. It truly is a place for travellers to realise their dreams, and surely the taste will have you coming back for more.
01 KATHMANDU
On arrival in Kathmandu, you are met and you transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon we take a half day excursion to visit the Bhaktapur Durbar Square, also known as Durbar Square. Clustered around the square are a number of palaces, courtyards and temples built between the 12th and 18th centuries by the Malla kings of ancient Nepal, and it is the religious and cultural hub of the city. We spend some time marvelling at the temples and palaces of iconic Hindu figures, such as the Lion Gate, Palace of 55 Windows, Bell of Barking Dogs, the Nayatapola, Bhairava and Dattaraya Temples, and the monastery with carved peacock windows. There are several interesting museums situated here, detailing the vibrant and colourful history of Kathmandu.
02 KATHMANDU
In the morning we make an unforgettable excursion to Patan, five km south of Kathmandu. It is one of the three oldest settlements in the Kathmandu Valley, and four stupas said to have been built by the Indian emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century can still be seen here today.There are a number of significant temples and shrines exhibiting exquisitely carved artwork.Patan has a rich heritage of arts and crafts, and in the afternoon we head off to the handicraft centre of the Tibetan refugees.
Afterwards, we visit the legendary Swayambhunath Stupa, two kms west of the city across the Vishnumati River. Listed as a world heritage site, this is one of the world's most glorious Buddhist sites. Its existence is linked to the creation of the Kathmandu Valley out of a primordial lake - the sage saw a celestial lotus in bloom on the top of a hill above the valley and sanctified it. Situated on this hill, the golden spire of Swayambhunath can be seen gazing out above the trees, offering fantastic views of Kathmandu and the Himalayan peaks in the distance. Climbing the 365 steep, well-worn steps of the pilgrim's route is well worth the effort, with the brown, all-seeing eyes of Lord Gautam Buddha, the founder of Buddhism, urging you on every step of the way.
The afternoon is at your leisure to explore this ancient capital at your own pace. Discover the local ways of life, with time to wander around the colourful bazaars alive with activity and bursting with fantastic traditional Nepalese crafts.
03 KATHMANDU - POKHARA
We transfer in the morning to the airport for your flight to Pokhara. You are met and transfer to your hotel to freshen up before heading out in the afternoon for a half day sightseeing . Nestled on the shores of a stunning, clear lake reflecting the Himalayas on all sides, Pokhara is the base for many treks in the Annapurna region, and has a life and soul epitomised by a vibrant mix of exhausted, happy hikers and traditional coloured prayer flags. We spend time visiting several by own interesting museums here, as well as the hilltop monastery and an outlying Tibetan village.
04 POKHARA - KATHMANDU
The morning is free to take in the spectacular views and enjoy your last few moments in this friendly city. In the afternoon we transfer to the airport for your return flight to Kathmandu. You are met on arrival and transfer to your hotel or station for your onward journey. Tour ends.
Cost Include
Accommodation on a room - with Breakfast.
All transfers and Sight seen tours by car, Jeep and Coach.
Group Size: [Min 4 pax-Max 15 pax]
