OVERVIEW
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8 days
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£PoR
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All seasons except mid-June to July
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Leisure
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Embark on a captivating journey featuring a scenic and cultural tour of Kathmandu and its surroundings.
Experience the enchanting Pokhara and Chitwan Tour, where you will explore historical World Heritage temples, monasteries, and palaces.
Discover Chitwan National Park, renowned for its rich biodiversity and diverse flora and fauna. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Annapurna Himalaya from the picturesque Pokhara Valley.
ITINERARY
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Upon arrival at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be greeted by Team Himalaya staff and transferred to your hotel. After a brief orientation by our guide, we will visit the Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the 'Monkey Temple.' This revered Buddhist Chaitya, estimated to be 2,000 years old, features the all-seeing eyes of Lord Buddha on its four sides. Located 3 km west of Kathmandu City on a 77-meter hillock, Swayambhunath offers panoramic views of Kathmandu and its valley, with snow-capped mountains in the distance on clear days. It is recognized as a World Heritage Site.
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After breakfast, our tour begins with a drive to Pashupatinath Temple, one of Hinduism's holiest sites, located 5 km east of Kathmandu. The temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, features a striking two-tiered golden roof and silver doors. Visitors can view the temple and its surroundings from the eastern bank of the Bagmati River, where pilgrims and Hindu priests perform rituals. While entry to the main temple is restricted to Hindus, we will walk along the riverbank to observe the activities.
Next, we will drive to Bouddhanath Stupa, 8 km east of Kathmandu. This immense and ancient stupa, located in 'Little Tibet,' offers insights into Tibetan Buddhist practices.
Our tour concludes with a visit to Patan Durbar Square, south of Kathmandu, accessible via a bridge over the Bagmati River. Known as Lalitpur, or the City of Arts, Patan's Durbar Square features intricately carved terracotta houses and the Stone Temple of Krishna. After exploring Patan and enjoying lunch, we will return to the hotel.
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From Kathmandu, embark on a scenic five-hour drive southwest along the main highway. The route offers views of the Kathmandu Valley and follows the Trisuli River southward. Upon reaching Chitwan, you'll be greeted by Lodge staff and transferred by four-wheel drive or elephant to the Jungle Lodge through the park entrance. There, you will receive a warm welcome from the senior naturalist or manager, who will provide an overview of your stay.
Chitwan's tropical jungles, located in the Terai region, are home to endangered species such as the Royal Bengal Tiger, one-horned Rhinoceros, Gharial crocodile, and freshwater dolphins. Enjoy thrilling safari experiences on elephant-back or in a four-wheel drive, with opportunities for canoe rides, jungle walks, and birdwatching. The cozy lodge, crafted from local materials, offers essential comforts while blending seamlessly with its natural surroundings.
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The jungle program starts early in the morning with a jungle walk and birdwatching, followed by a few hours on an elephant safari. After returning to the Lodge for breakfast and a brief rest, continue with another jungle tour until lunch at 1 p.m. Afternoon activities resume at 3 p.m., offering options for an elephant safari or a jungle walk, according to the Lodge's schedule.
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After an early jungle activity and breakfast, drive from the park exit to Pokhara, a scenic five-hour journey along the western highway. Enjoy the stunning landscapes, lakes, and close-up views of the Annapurna-Manaslu range, including the majestic Mt. Machhapuchhre ('The Fish Tail'). Upon arrival in Pokhara, check into your hotel near the picturesque Phewa Lake. After refreshing, take an afternoon stroll along the lakeside, where you can explore various shops and dine at charming restaurants.
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After breakfast, embark on a short drive to the southern end of Pokhara to view Davis Falls. Water levels vary by season: low in the dry season but spectacularly torrential during the monsoon. Next, drive to the heart of Pokhara to see the Seti River Gorge, a deep and narrow chasm visible from a bridge. Continue to the Bindabasani Temple, a local Hindu pilgrimage site offering panoramic views of the Annapurna range. Conclude with a visit to the Tibetan Refugee Camp, where you can explore handicrafts and carpets like those in Patan.
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After enjoying the stunning views of the Annapurna, Manaslu, Dhaulagiri ranges, and the striking Mt. Machhapuchhre in Pokhara, drive back to Kathmandu. The journey takes approximately five hours. Upon arrival, check into your respective hotels.
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According to your international flight schedule, please have your confirmed air ticket and passport ready. Our staff will transfer you to the airport for your departure from Nepal.
WHAT IS INCLUDED?
All arrival and departure transportation airport/hotel /airport by private vehicle.
Accommodation in Kathmandu at Tourist standard on a bed/breakfast only basis.
Sightseeing tour on private vehicle as per the group size from car to coaches.
Service of cultural / city English-speaking guide as per the tour activities itinerary and program.
All entrance fees, while tour in Kathmandu Valley sightseeing / all jungle activities in Chitwan with National Park fees and sightseeing fees in Pokhara sightseeing.
Trip map of Kathmandu valley.
All ground transportation from Kathmandu- Chitwan- Pokhara- Kathmandu by tourist coach / Bus.
Accommodation on standard Jungle resort on a B- L- D (Lunch Breakfast and Dinner) Basis including Tea and coffee, while we are on the Chitwan National Park tour.
Tourists' standard accommodation in Pokhara on a bed and breakfast basis.
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu at an authentic Nepalese restaurant with cultural programs.
WHAT IS EXCLUDED?
Nepal entry visa / personal travel and medical insurance.
Expenses of a personal nature and gratitude (tipping).
Personal gear for a tour and medical kit.
Lunch and Dinner, while you are in Kathmandu / Pokhara.