Your Nepal adventure begins with your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. After completing immigration, baggage collection and customs formalities, you will be warmly welcomed by a representative of Nepal Voyage Treks at the airport. Our representative will assist you with your luggage and transfer you comfortably to your hotel in Kathmandu.

The drive from the airport to your hotel provides your first introduction to Kathmandu Valley. You will see busy streets, traditional buildings, colorful shops, temples, prayer flags and the everyday lifestyle of Kathmandu. Depending on your arrival time and energy level, the remainder of the day can be spent relaxing at the hotel or taking a short walk around the surrounding area.

In the evening, you will receive a briefing about the complete tour, including the following days in Kathmandu, Pokhara, Lumbini and Chitwan. Our team will explain the transportation arrangements, sightseeing schedule and important cultural information.

Overnight: Kathmandu
Meals: Welcome dinner
Accommodation: Hotel

After breakfast, you begin a full-day cultural and historical sightseeing tour of Kathmandu Valley. Kathmandu Valley is one of the most culturally significant areas of Nepal and contains several UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Today you will visit six of the valley's most important cultural and religious landmarks.

1. Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Your first destination is Bhaktapur Durbar Square, located in the historic city of Bhaktapur. Bhaktapur is famous for its beautifully preserved medieval architecture, traditional Newari culture, brick-paved streets, temples, courtyards and artistic heritage.

During your visit, you can explore the Golden Gate, the 55-Window Palace, Nyatapola Temple, traditional courtyards and other historic structures. The city is also famous for traditional pottery and local Newari craftsmanship. Walking through Bhaktapur feels like stepping into a living museum where traditional architecture and everyday local life continue side by side.

2. Patan Durbar Square

Continue to Patan Durbar Square, located in the historic city of Lalitpur. Patan has been renowned for centuries as a center of Nepalese art, architecture, metalwork and craftsmanship.

The square contains impressive temples, palace courtyards and traditional Newari buildings decorated with intricate wood and stone carvings. The Patan Museum is also an important attraction for visitors interested in the history and artistic traditions of the Kathmandu Valley.

Your guide will explain the historical and religious significance of the monuments while allowing time for photography and exploration.

3. Kathmandu Durbar Square

After Patan, continue to Kathmandu Durbar Square, the historic royal center of the capital. The square contains palaces, courtyards, temples and traditional architecture representing centuries of Nepalese history.

You can explore the historic palace complex, traditional temples and important courtyards. The area also provides an opportunity to learn about Nepal's former royal traditions, Newari architecture and the cultural history of Kathmandu.

Your guide will explain the significance of the monuments and the traditions associated with the old royal city.

4. Swayambhunath Temple – The Monkey Temple

Next, drive to Swayambhunath, one of the most famous Buddhist sites in Kathmandu. The temple complex is located on a hill overlooking much of Kathmandu Valley.

The site is particularly famous for its large Buddhist stupa, prayer flags, prayer wheels, Buddhist shrines and traditional architecture. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views across Kathmandu Valley from the hilltop when weather conditions are clear.

Swayambhunath is an important place of worship for both Buddhist and Hindu communities, reflecting the religious harmony and cultural diversity of Nepal.

5. Pashupatinath Temple

Continue to Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites in Nepal and an important religious center dedicated to Lord Shiva.

The temple complex is situated beside the Bagmati River and contains numerous temples, shrines, statues and traditional religious structures. Non-Hindu visitors cannot enter the main temple building, but the surrounding complex and viewpoints provide opportunities to observe the architecture, religious traditions and cultural atmosphere.

Your guide will explain the cultural importance of Pashupatinath and the traditions associated with the sacred Bagmati River.

6. Boudhanath Stupa

The final major heritage visit of the day is Boudhanath, one of the largest and most important Buddhist stupas in Nepal.

The enormous white dome and distinctive Buddha eyes create one of Kathmandu's most recognizable landmarks. The surrounding area is filled with monasteries, prayer wheels, Tibetan Buddhist shops, restaurants and traditional cultural activities.

You can walk around the stupa following the traditional clockwise direction, spin prayer wheels and observe Buddhist pilgrims and monks performing their daily religious practices.

After completing the six heritage sites, return to your hotel. This evening is free to relax or explore the surrounding area.

Overnight: Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast
Tour: Full-day private sightseeing
Guide: Professional local cultural guide

After breakfast, you will depart Kathmandu for Pokhara, one of Nepal's most beautiful tourist destinations.

The journey takes you away from the Kathmandu Valley and into the hills and river valleys of central Nepal. Along the way, you can observe rural settlements, terraced farmland, rivers, forests, hills and traditional villages.

Depending on road conditions, traffic and the group's transportation arrangement, the journey generally takes several hours. A private vehicle allows flexibility for comfort stops, refreshments, photography and sightseeing along the route.

For groups, transportation can be arranged according to group size, including a private car, van, Hiace, jeep or tourist bus.

After arriving in Pokhara, check in to your hotel and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the lakeside area. If time permits, you may take an evening walk around Phewa Lake and the Lakeside area.

Pokhara offers a completely different atmosphere from Kathmandu. Surrounded by green hills and spectacular Himalayan landscapes, the city is famous for its lakes, mountain views, adventure activities and relaxed environment.

Overnight: Pokhara
Meals: Breakfast
Transportation: Private vehicle

Today is dedicated to the natural beauty and cultural attractions of Pokhara.

Total sightseeing time: approximately 7–9 hours
Approximate local driving distance: 30–45 km
Walking: approximately 3–5 km
Elevation: approximately 800–1,100 m depending on the viewpoint

Davis Falls

Begin with Davis Falls, locally known as Patale Chhango.

The waterfall is located approximately 2 km southwest of Pokhara Airport and is famous for its powerful flow disappearing into an underground channel.

Elevation: approximately 800 m
Walking: 0.5–1 km
Ascent/descent: minimal

Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave

Next visit Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, situated close to Davis Falls.

This sacred cave contains a shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva and is associated with the underground water system around the waterfall.

The cave combines natural geology with Hindu religious significance and provides an interesting contrast to the open landscapes of Pokhara.

Walking: approximately 0.5–1 km
Elevation: ~800 m
Ascent/descent: small internal stairs

Mahendra Cave – Mahendra Gupha

Continue to Mahendra Cave, a limestone cave famous for its natural rock formations, stalactites and stalagmites. Nepal Tourism Board describes it as a large limestone cave and notes its reputation for these geological formations.

Elevation: approximately 900 m
Walking: approximately 1 km
Ascent/descent: moderate stairs inside the cave area

World Peace Pagoda

Continue to the World Peace Pagoda, situated on a hill south of Phewa Lake.

The pagoda has Buddha images facing the four directions and provides one of the best panoramic viewpoints around Pokhara. The hilltop location offers spectacular views toward the Annapurna region.

Elevation: approximately 1,100 m
Ascent: approximately 250–300 m if walking from the lakeside route; much less if approaching by vehicle
Walking: approximately 1–3 km depending on route

Mountains Visible

On a clear day, the major Himalayan panorama can include:

• Machhapuchhre (Fishtail)
• Annapurna South
• Annapurna I
• Annapurna II
• Annapurna III
• Annapurna IV
• Dhaulagiri
• Hiunchuli

Visibility depends strongly on weather and season.

Phewa Lake Boating

In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Phewa Lake.

The lake provides beautiful reflections of the surrounding hills and, during clear conditions, the Himalayan mountains.

A boat trip can also include a visit to Tal Barahi Temple, situated on a small island in the lake.

Flora & Fauna

Around Phewa Lake you may observe aquatic plants, forest vegetation and numerous bird species. The surrounding hills contain subtropical vegetation and mixed forests.

Overnight

Pokhara Hotel

Meals

Breakfast

After breakfast, depart Pokhara for Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha.

Distance & Driving

Approximate road distance: 200–220 km
Driving time: approximately 7–9 hours depending on road and traffic
Pokhara elevation: ~800 m
Lumbini elevation: approximately 150 m

This is an important geographical transition. The journey descends from the Middle Hills toward the flat Terai plains.

Ascent & Descent

Overall: approximately 650 m net descent.

Although the overall elevation decreases, the road may still contain many short ascents and descents.

Landscape

The scenery changes dramatically from the green hills and mountain environment of Pokhara to the warmer, flatter Terai landscape.

You will see agricultural land, villages, rivers, forests and subtropical vegetation.

Flora & Fauna

The Terai supports sal forests, grasses, agricultural vegetation and many species of birds and small wildlife.

After reaching Lumbini, check into your hotel and relax.

Overnight

Lumbini Hotel

Meals

Breakfast

Today is a full day dedicated to Lumbini, one of the world's most important Buddhist pilgrimage destinations.

Lumbini is officially recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage cultural site.

Elevation: approximately 150 m
Walking: approximately 4–7 km depending on sightseeing
Driving within Lumbini: limited
Ascent/descent: almost completely flat

Maya Devi Temple

Begin at the Maya Devi Temple, the spiritual heart of Lumbini.

The site is traditionally identified as the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama, who later became known as Buddha.

The surrounding area provides a peaceful environment for visitors, pilgrims and meditation.

Sacred Garden

Explore the Sacred Garden, where visitors can see archaeological and religious monuments associated with Buddha's birthplace.

The peaceful gardens, trees, ponds and walking paths create an atmosphere very different from the busy streets of Kathmandu.

Ashoka Pillar

Visit the historic Ashoka Pillar, associated with Emperor Ashoka's pilgrimage to Lumbini.

Your guide will explain the historical importance of the pillar and the archaeological discoveries connected with the site.

Lumbini Monastic Zone

Continue through the international monastic area where different Buddhist countries and traditions have constructed monasteries and temples.

Visitors can observe different architectural styles representing the international nature of Buddhism.

Flora & Fauna

Lumbini has extensive gardens, trees, ponds and green spaces. Common birds and butterflies can be observed around the park, while the trees and landscaped areas create a peaceful environment for walking.

Mountains Visible

The Lumbini area is located in the lowland Terai. Himalayan mountain visibility from the main Lumbini area is generally limited and should not be guaranteed. On exceptionally clear days, distant hills or Himalayan ranges may be visible from parts of the wider region.

Overnight

Lumbini Hotel

Meals

Breakfast

After breakfast, depart Lumbini for Chitwan.

Distance & Driving

Approximate road distance: 150–180 km depending on the selected route
Driving time: approximately 5–7 hours
Lumbini elevation: ~150 m
Chitwan elevation: approximately 150–200 m

The journey follows the Terai and Inner Terai landscape before reaching the Chitwan region.

Chitwan means "heart of the jungle" and the region lies between the foothills of the Himalayas, the Mahabharat and Siwalik ranges.

After arriving at your jungle resort, check in and have lunch or refreshments according to your hotel package.

Depending on arrival time, you may enjoy a village walk, nature walk or other short activity.

Tharu Cultural Experience

In the evening, experience a traditional Tharu cultural program, subject to local schedule and availability.

The Tharu people have a distinctive cultural heritage associated with the Terai region. Their traditional music and dance provide visitors with an excellent introduction to the local culture.

Flora & Fauna

Chitwan's vegetation includes tropical and subtropical forests, grasslands and riverine vegetation.

Overnight

Chitwan Jungle Resort / Hotel

Meals

Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Today is the wildlife highlight of the tour.

Chitwan National Park is a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site and is famous for its rich biodiversity. Nepal Tourism Board lists jungle safari, jungle walks, canoe rides, jeep drives and Tharu cultural experiences among the major activities.

Elevation: approximately 150–200 m
Walking: approximately 3–6 km depending on activities
Ascent/descent: generally minimal
Driving: varies according to safari route

Jungle Safari

Enjoy a jungle safari in the park or surrounding permitted safari area according to current park regulations.

Chitwan provides opportunities to observe wildlife in its natural environment. Possible sightings include:

• One-horned rhinoceros
• Spotted deer
• Sambar deer
• Wild boar
• Rhesus monkey
• Langur
• Gaur
• Crocodiles
• Numerous bird species

The Royal Bengal tiger also occurs in Chitwan, but sightings are rare and can never be guaranteed.

Nepal Tourism Board reports 56 mammal species in the park, including rhinoceros, tiger, deer, leopard, gaur and wild boar, along with reptiles including gharial and mugger crocodiles.

Canoe Ride

Depending on current park regulations and river conditions, enjoy a canoe experience along one of the area's rivers.

The river environment provides excellent opportunities to observe crocodiles, water birds and riverine vegetation.

Nature Walk

A guided nature walk allows you to experience the forest at a slower pace.

Your naturalist or local guide can explain animal tracks, plants, bird calls, forest ecology and the relationship between the river, grassland and forest ecosystems.

Birdwatching

Chitwan is an outstanding destination for birdwatching. Nepal Tourism Board records approximately 525 bird species in the park and surrounding ecosystem.

Depending on season, visitors may encounter resident and migratory birds.

Flora

The park contains tropical and subtropical forests, grasslands, riverine forest and wetland habitats.

Fauna

Major wildlife possibilities include:

Mammals: One-horned rhinoceros, deer, wild boar, monkey, langur, gaur, leopard and tiger.

Reptiles: Gharial, mugger crocodile, python and other reptiles.

Birds: Hundreds of resident and migratory species.

Mountains Visible

Chitwan is primarily a lowland jungle destination. The surrounding Siwalik and Mahabharat hills may be visible from some locations, but major high Himalayan peaks are generally not a principal feature of the Chitwan experience.

Overnight

Chitwan Jungle Resort / Hotel

Meals

Breakfast, lunch and dinner

After breakfast, begin your return journey from Chitwan to Kathmandu.

Distance & Driving

Approximate road distance: 150–180 km depending on route
Driving time: approximately 5–7 hours depending on traffic, road conditions and stops
Chitwan elevation: ~150–200 m
Kathmandu elevation: ~1,340 m

The journey gradually climbs from the lowland Terai/Inner Terai toward the hills and finally Kathmandu Valley.

Elevation Change

Net ascent: approximately 1,100–1,200 m.

The road includes numerous winding sections, hills and river valleys.

After arriving in Kathmandu, check into your hotel and take time to relax.

SPECIAL FAREWELL DINNER IN KATHMANDU

In the evening, Nepal Voyage Treks will organize a memorable Nepalese farewell dinner.

This final evening provides an opportunity to celebrate your journey through Nepal and enjoy delicious traditional Nepalese cuisine.

Depending on the arrangement, the farewell evening may include:

• Traditional Nepali food
• Dal Bhat
• Momos
• Traditional Nepalese dishes
• Seasonal vegetables
• Dessert
• Nepali tea
• Traditional music
• Cultural dance performance
• Interaction with your guide and Nepal Voyage Treks team

The farewell dinner is intended to provide international guests with a warm final memory of Nepal before their departure.

Overnight

Kathmandu Hotel

Meals

Breakfast and farewell dinner

After breakfast, your Nepal journey comes to an end.

Depending on your international flight schedule, a representative of Nepal Voyage Treks will transfer you from your hotel to Tribhuvan International Airport.

Airport Transfer

Approximate distance: 5–8 km depending on hotel
Driving time: approximately 20–45 minutes depending on traffic
Elevation: approximately 1,340 m
Ascent/descent: negligible

Our representative will assist you with your airport transfer and departure arrangements.

We hope you leave Nepal with unforgettable memories of ancient temples and palaces, Himalayan landscapes, peaceful lakes, Buddhist monasteries, the birthplace of Buddha, Chitwan's wildlife and the warm hospitality of the Nepalese people.

DESTINATION OVERVIEW

KATHMANDU – The Cultural Heart of Nepal

Kathmandu is the cultural and historical gateway to Nepal. The valley contains an extraordinary concentration of Hindu and Buddhist monuments, traditional Newari architecture, ancient royal cities, temples, stupas and living cultural traditions.

The six heritage sites included in this tour—Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath and Boudhanath—provide a broad introduction to Nepal's history, architecture and religious traditions.

POKHARA – Lakes, Mountains & Natural Beauty

Pokhara is situated at approximately 800 meters and is one of Nepal's most popular destinations.

The city is famous for Phewa Lake, Machhapuchhre, Annapurna, Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Cave, Mahendra Cave and the World Peace Pagoda.

Pokhara's unique combination of lakes, green hills and dramatic Himalayan scenery makes it one of the most visually impressive destinations in Nepal.

LUMBINI – Birthplace of Buddha

Lumbini provides a completely different experience from Kathmandu and Pokhara.

It is a place of spirituality, archaeology, meditation and international Buddhist culture. The Sacred Garden, Maya Devi Temple, Ashoka Pillar and international monasteries make Lumbini an important destination for visitors interested in Buddhism, history and peaceful cultural experiences.

Lumbini is officially included among Nepal's cultural World Heritage sites.

CHITWAN – Wildlife & Jungle Adventure

Chitwan is the wildlife destination of this tour.

Chitwan National Park contains tropical and subtropical forests, grasslands, wetlands and river ecosystems supporting a remarkable range of wildlife.

The park provides opportunities for safari, nature walks, canoe rides, birdwatching and cultural experiences.

APPROXIMATE JOURNEY STATISTICS

Important: Road distances and driving times are approximate. Nepal's road conditions, traffic, weather, construction and seasonal conditions can substantially affect journey times. These figures should therefore be presented on the website as approximate rather than guaranteed.

MOUNTAINS & LANDSCAPES

The strongest Himalayan mountain views on this itinerary are around Pokhara.

Possible mountains visible from suitable viewpoints and under clear conditions include:

• Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) – 6,993 m
• Annapurna South – 7,219 m
• Annapurna I – 8,091 m
• Annapurna II – 7,937 m
• Annapurna III – 7,855 m
• Annapurna IV – 7,525 m
• Hiunchuli – 6,441 m
• Dhaulagiri I – 8,167 m

Mountain visibility is naturally dependent on weather, season, haze and atmospheric conditions. Nepal Voyage Treks therefore does not guarantee a particular mountain view.

FLORA & FAUNA THROUGHOUT THE JOURNEY

One of the special features of this itinerary is that the environment changes dramatically as the journey travels from Kathmandu's hills to Pokhara, the Terai plains, Lumbini and Chitwan's tropical forests.

Kathmandu Valley: urban trees, gardens, flowering plants and common birds.

Pokhara: subtropical vegetation, forests, lake vegetation and numerous bird species.

Lumbini: landscaped gardens, trees, ponds, grasses and many common birds and butterflies.

Chitwan: tropical/subtropical forests, sal forests, grasslands, riverine vegetation, wetlands and a rich wildlife ecosystem.

Chitwan is particularly important for biodiversity, with documented mammals, reptiles and hundreds of bird species.

PRIVATE TRANSPORTATION FOR INTERNATIONAL CLIENTS

Nepal Voyage Treks can arrange transportation according to the number of guests and their comfort requirements.

For 1–3 guests, a comfortable private car can be arranged.

For small groups, a private van can provide additional space for luggage and passengers.

For medium-sized groups, a private Hiace can be arranged.

For larger groups, a comfortable tourist bus can be provided.

A private jeep may also be arranged when appropriate for particular routes or group requirements.

Private transportation provides flexibility for rest stops, photography, meals and sightseeing along the journey.

PROFESSIONAL LOCAL GUIDE

International clients are accompanied by experienced local guides where appropriate.

Our guides can explain Nepalese history, religion, architecture, local traditions, Hinduism, Buddhism, Newari culture, Buddhist pilgrimage traditions, wildlife and local communities.

The objective is not simply to take guests from one attraction to another, but to help them understand the history, culture, religion, nature and people behind every destination.

WHY CHOOSE NEPAL VOYAGE TREKS?

Nepal Voyage Treks provides personalized travel experiences for international visitors who want to discover Nepal comfortably and meaningfully.

From the moment guests arrive at Kathmandu airport, our team can assist with airport reception, private transportation, hotels, sightseeing, professional guides, local activities and departure arrangements.

Our objective is to provide a journey that combines comfort, safety, cultural understanding, natural beauty and authentic Nepalese hospitality.

This itinerary can also be customized according to the client's:

• Arrival and departure flight schedule
• Number of travelers
• Hotel category
• Transportation preference
• Budget
• Dietary requirements
• Sightseeing interests
• Family requirements
• Private or group travel preference
• Additional trekking or adventure activities

Experience Nepal With Nepal Voyage Treks

From the ancient temples of Kathmandu to the Himalayan panorama of Pokhara, from the peaceful birthplace of Buddha in Lumbini to the wildlife-rich forests of Chitwan, this journey allows international travelers to experience many different faces of Nepal in one unforgettable trip.

Nepal Voyage Treks – Your Journey, Our Local Expertise.