Kathmandu is a 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.
This stopover is ideal for those who wish to see the delights of Nepalese culture in the capital of Kathmandu, but do not have much time spare in Nepal. Travellers are able to fit the itinerary into a longer trip in India and Asia, or treat it as a short break alone.
01 DELHI - KATHMANDU
On arrival in Delhi, you are met and we transfer to the airport for the morning flight from Delhi to Kathmandu. You will be met at the airport and will transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is spent at your leisure, settling in to your new environment.
02 KATHMANDU
After breakfast at the hotel, we take a half day excursion to visit Bhaktapur 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.
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.
03 KATHMANDU
We make an unforgettable excursion to Patan, five km east 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.
04 KATHMANDU
A day at leisure is needed to explore at your own pace the local ways of life, with time to wander around the colourful bazaars alive with activity and bursting with fantastic traditional Nepalese crafts.
05 KATHMANDU
We take a trip out of Kathmandu, driving south 21 km on a road that takes us through a beautiful landscape of terraced hillsides with the looming presence of the Himalayas on the horizon. The road ends abruptly at the Dakshinakali Temple, dedicated to the supremely powerful Hindu goddess of the same name. A fantastic temple set in beautiful surroundings, it is also the sight of various rituals including the sacrifice of goats and roosters every week. On our way back to the city, we stop at the spectacular Chovar Gorge, where water tumbles to feed this lush valley.
06 KATHMANDU - DELHI
The morning is at your leisure to enjoy your last moments in Nepal, before the afternoon transfer to the airport for the return flight to Delhi. On arrival, we transfer to the station or airport for your onward or homeward destination. 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]
