Nepal Explore Tour 15 Days

Trip Facts

  • Duration 15 Days
  • Difficulty Level Moderate
  • Destination Nepal
  • Transportation Private Comfortable Vehicle
  • Activity Cultural and Historical Tour, Trekking and Hiking
  • Best Season Jan-May and Sept-Dec
  • Group Size Min 2, max 16 People
  • Trip Start/End Kathmandu
  • Max Altitude 3200m

Highlights

  • Guided city tour of World Heritage Sites including Pashupatinath, three Durbar Squares and Swayambhunath
  • Explore the unique architectural style of the Newari culture
  • Amazing sunrise/sunset view from Nagarkot and Sarangkot
  • Jungle Walk, Elephant Safari and Canoe in Chitwan National Park
  • Visit famous natural wonders of Pokhara
  • Explore the ancient town of Palpa
  • Visit Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha
  • Short trek to Ghorepani
  • Panoramic view of the Annapurna massif from Poon Hill
  • Experience the Gurung culture in Ghandruk

Nepal Explore Tour Overview

Nepal is emerging more and more as a cultural destination, and rightly so! This Himalayan paradise not only hosts some of the world’s tallest mountains but also some of the world’s unique cultures. The land of Living Goddess Kumari, the abode of Lord Shiva, the birthplace of Gautam Buddha, home to 123 different languages, 131 different ethnic groups, temples, and stupas, and most of all house to people who believe in ‘’AthitiDevoBhaba’’ (the guest is equal to god), Nepal is truly culturally diverse.

Nepal Explore Tour-15 days offers you an opportunity to visit the major attractions of the country in a short span. From exploring the World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu Valley to getting to observe the sunrise and sunset over the Himalayas from three different locations, this package gives you the most real introduction to Nepal.

Surprise your taste buds with local cuisines and get to know more about the origin of different religions and cultures of the country! We start off from the capital city itself, visiting famous landmarks including the three Durbar Squares. As we stroll the streets of Kathmandu, you will witness the local lifestyle. An overnight stay at Nagarkot where the next day starts with a spectacular view of the sunrise over the Himalayas is the best way to start a morning. After having explored Kathmandu, we travel to Chitwan to enjoy the sights of the rare one-horned rhinos, Bengal tigers and sloth bears among other wild animals. Jungle walks, elephant safari, and canoeing are some of the activities we will indulge in during our stay in Chitwan.

Next, we explore the birthplace of Lord Buddha and other landmarks in Lumbini followed by a short visit to the ancient town of Tansen, famous for its rich heritage and production of Dhaka (handmade and uniquely patterned Nepali fabric). In Pokhara, we visit different natural wonders such as the Phewa Lake, Davis Fall, and Gupteshwor Cave among others. We then leave for a short trek to Ghorepani in the Annapurna Region. The uphill climb to Poon Hill rewards us with a mesmerizing view of the sunrise over the Fishtail, Annapurna massif, Dhaulagiri, and other surrounding peaks. We then descend to Ghandruk, a typical village of Gurung people and a homestay destination.

By the end of the tour, you’d be familiar with the history of Kathmandu valley, would have visited the birthplace of Gautam Buddha in the Southern Plains of the country, trekked to the Annapurna region, toured Pokhara, seen Nepal’s wildlife up close and explored the ancient craft of handlooms. Adventure Club Trek also offers Kathmandu Cultural Heritage Tour-2 Days, Kathmandu-Lumbini and Pokhara Tour-8 Days, and Kathmandu and Pokhara Tour-7 Days.

Itinerary

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Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), you will be welcomed by a representative from Adventure Club Trek. After sorting out your custom formalities (visa and so on), you will be then transferred to your respective hotel in Adventure Club Trek’s private vehicle and giving you some time to freshen up. After this, you will attend an orientation about your trek led by the trekking leader over a welcome dinner. Overnight at hotel.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsWelcome Dinner
  • Max. Altitude1,350m/4,429ft

Today, we visit sites of great historical and cultural importance present in the Kathmandu Valley including the three Durbar Squares of Patan, Bhaktapur, and Basantapur.
A summary of the day:

Basantapur Durbar Square:
It is an ancient Nepal Palace complex surrounded by pagoda-style temples and palaces, dating back to the Malla and Shah Dynasty reigns. Along the cobblestone paved road, you can also see the Kumari Ghar, the house of the living goddess Kumari. The uniquely built temples and palaces in the square mark the beautiful architectural style of the Nepalese culture. Also called the Kathmandu Durbar Square and Hanuman Dhoka Palace, the site is one of seven UNESCO world heritage sites in the valley.
Pashupatinath Temple:
Listed as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Pashupatinath is one of the most important sacred temples in the Hindu religion. The main temple is a two-storied pagoda-style temple and is surrounded by over 500 monuments and temples including Ram Mandir, Surya Narayan Temple, and Vasuki Nath Temple among others. Though non-Hindu foreigners are allowed on the premises of the main temple, you can explore other monuments alongside the Bagmati river and can also catch a glimpse of the Pashupatinath Temple from Biswarup. The Ghats, open cremation sites, on the banks of river Bagmati usually have a pyre or more burning which you can witness as well.
Boudhanath:
It is one of the largest and most sacred stapes in South Asia. The site is filled with Buddhist devotees performing koras(going around the stupa clockwise), the smell of incense burning, monks praying, and fluttering Buddhist prayer flags almost everywhere. You can even buy small spinning wheels and other souvenirs related to the Buddhist culture in shops that decorate the alleyways.
Swayambhunath
Located atop a hill, Swayambhunath is also known as the Monkey Temple as the northwest side of the temple is home to many monkeys. Also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, both Hindus and Buddhists come to offer their prayers here. You can enjoy a view of Kathmandu city and a beautiful sunset from the top.
Patan Durbar Square:
Home to many old temples and idols, Patan Durbar Square, is a fine example of Newari architecture. The main attractions are the royal palace of Malla Kings, Krishna Mandir, and Taleju Temple among others. Many of the monuments and temples suffered major damage from the 2015 earthquake and restoration work is underway. However, most of the important monuments are still intact.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square:
Bhaktapur Durbar Square is 13 km east of the city. The culture and lifestyle of Bhaktapur have remained intact for centuries; though it is changed in recent years, you can still see old people carrying out the traditions. The main attractions of the Square are the famous 55 windowed palaces, Nyatapola Temple, Bhairav Nath Temple and Vatsala Temple, Dattatreya Square, and Pottery Square among others. After a day of sightseeing, we head to Nagarkot, driving uphill along the twisting roads. It is a hill station mostly known for the spectacular views of the Himalayas. People come here to enjoy the sunrise and sunset amidst the eight ranges-the Annapurna peaks, Mt., Everest, Mt. Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Langtang Himal, Mt. Number, Rolwaling Himal, and Jugal Himal. Overnight in Nagarkot.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast
  • Max. Altitude2,175m/7,136ft

We wake up at the crack of dawn to enjoy the sunrise over the Himalayas. If weather permits you can see the mountain range in the north and Kathmandu valley in the west. After a hearty breakfast, a private vehicle will drive us to Chitwan. Upon our arrival at the resort, we’ll be briefed about the jungle tour. Freshen up, have lunch, we visit an ethnic Tharu village later. As we head back to the resort, enjoy the sunset from the bank of Rapti River. Dinner at the resort.Overnight in Chitwan.

  • AccommodationHote/Resort
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude415m/1,362ft

Early breakfast, then we head out for the jungle tour as morning is the best time to catch a glimpse of animals in their natural habitat. We start off with a guided jungle walk which rewards us with the sights of rhinos, a variety of birds, sloth bears, and deer among others, followed by an elephant safari.
After lunch, we canoe ride along the Rapti River, inhabited by crocodiles and water monitors. We then watch elephants take a bath in the river followed by a visit to the Elephant Breeding Centre. The thrilling packed afternoon ends with a Tharu Cultural Program. Overnight at the resort.

  • AccommodationHote/Resort
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude415m/1,362ft

After breakfast, we drive to Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. Marked as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lumbini is a common destination for Buddhist devotees as they visit to pay their respects at the Maya Devi Temple where Buddha was born. Upon arrival in Lumbini, we check in at our hotel, freshen up, and relax for the day. We can spend the afternoon exploring the town and nearby historic places. Overnight at Lumbini.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast
  • Max. Altitude150 m/490ft

The small town of Lumbini has undergone many excavations, revealing the remains of ancient stupas and monasteries which is a delight to see now. Besides the Sacred Garden which hosts the monastic zone of Lumbini were almost all Buddhist nations have erected the finest examples of their architecture, the Ashoka Pillar is another attraction of the place. Built in 250 BC by the Indian Emperor Ashoka, the pillar provides written evidence that Buddha was born here. Next, we visit Maya Devi Temple where a stone image of Maya Devi giving birth to Lord Buddha as she holds on to a branch of a pipal tree is on display. In the afternoon, we drive approximately 3 hours to reach Palpa where we spend the night. Palpa has pleasant weather making it a perfect destination throughout the season. This small ancient town provides a spectacular view of the mountains and a very hospitable environment. On a sunny day, you can lay eyes on Dhaulagiri (8,167m/26,794ft), Gauri Shankar, Annapurna, and Manaslu among other peaks. The place is famous for Dhaka (handmade fabric), so visiting to see a weaver at work on their looms is a must. Overnight at Palpa.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast
  • Max. Altitude152m/1936ft

Early in the morning, we can watch the sunrise over the magnificent Himalayas. After a hearty breakfast, we drive to Pokhara. Upon arrival, we check in to our hotel and rest for the day. Later in the afternoon or the evening, we can go strolling through the streets of Pokhara and explore its nightlife scene.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast
  • Max. Altitude827m/2,713ft

We start the day early to catch a glimpse of the sunrise from Sarangkot. Watch the sun break down as it comes up behind the mountains like Dhaulagiri (8,167m/26,794ft), Annapurna range, and Fishtail (6,993m/22,943ft), turning the snow-capped mountains goldenly. Also, enjoy the views of emerald green Phewa Lake and the beautiful Pokhara Valley. We then head back to the hotel to have breakfast. Later in the day, we visit the famous landmarks of the city.
Davis Falls
Locally known as Patale Chango (underground waterfall), it is a stream flowing from Phewa surging through rocks to form the underground tunnel at the bottom which is around 500 feet long and 100 feet below the ground level, justifying its local name. It became famous as Davis falls after the father of Davis, a Swiss woman who fell and died in the fall’s pits, wished to name the fall after his daughter.
Gupteshwor Cave
The cave extends around 3 km in length but has different geography inside. Some corners of the cave make you crawl on your four limbs. It holds great importance to Hindus as a shrine of Lord Shiva is preserved here in the condition it was found. You can also hear the thundering waters of Davis Falls from the cave.
Phewa Lake
It is the second largest lake in Nepal and is one of the main attractions of Pokhara. You can boat around and visit the Barahi Temple (dedicated to female force Shakti) located almost in the middle of the lake. Tibetan refugee camps Tashiling and TashiPalkhel are two Tibetan camps located in the city’s south and the north respectively. The first Tibetans migrated here in the 50s and ever since it has been home to them. The two camps are famous for the production and trade of woolen carpets and handicrafts.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast
  • Max. Altitude2100m

After breakfast, we drive to Nayapul, starting point of our trek. We walk along the banks of Modi Khola to reach Birethanti (1,015m) and here onwards we follow the north bank of Bhurungdi Khola. We gradually climb up to arrive at Tikhedhunga (1,570m). Overnight at a teahouse at Tikhedunga.

  • AccommodationGuesthouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude1,570m

Today’s trek mostly includes uphill climbs, beginning with ascending to Ulleri, a Magar village at 2,070m. To reach the village, we have to cross the infamous stone stairs consisting of more than 3000 steps. Upon reaching Ulleri, we are rewarded with magnificent views of the Annapurna range. We make our way through rhododendrons and oak forest to reach Banthanti (2,250m) followed by Nangethanti (2,460m) where we stop for lunch before heading out to Ghorepani. A spectacular view of Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Tukuche (6,940m), Tarke Kang (7,193m), and Annapurna (8,091m) can be seen from Ghorepani. Overnight at Ghorepani.

  • AccommodationGuesthouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude2,840m

Our goal today is to reach Poon Hill (3,210 m) before dawn breaks to catch the unobstructed view of the sunrise over the Himalayas. Enjoy the panoramic view of the Annapurna massif, Dhaulagiri, and Fishtail and a range of other mountains golden and glistening in the sunlight. After spending nearly an hour at the top, we head back to Ghorepani for breakfast. Then, we set out to Tadapani. Passing through pine and rhododendron forests, we arrive at Deurali (2,960m). We continue on the trail to Banthanti and then turn to Tadapani where we spend the night.

  • AccommodationGuesthouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude2,610m

We descend from Tadapani to the traditional Gurung village of Ghandruk, also home to many Gurkha soldiers. The village offers magnificent views of Ghandruk Himal, Annapurna peaks, and Machhapuchhre Mountain. Gangpurna has thatched roof houses and most of the people here farm. Tourism is one of the major income sources of the village as it is a popular homestay destination.
It is also a common destination for trekkers scaling the Annapurna region as the village is easily accessible from Pokhara and Kathmandu. We spend the day exploring the village, visiting Annapurna Conservation Office and museums. Overnight at guesthouse in Ghandruk.

  • AccommodationGuesthouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude1,940 m

Today, we head back to Nayapul which concludes our trek. We then drive to Pokhara, freshen up at the hotel after which you can stroll along the lakeside, shop for souvenirs. In the evening you can enjoy live music in pubs and restaurants. Overnight in a hotel in Pokhara.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast and Lunch
  • Max. Altitude850m

Today, we return to Kathmandu driving alongside the Trishuli River on dwindling mountain roads. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you have the whole day to yourself. Go souvenir shopping or stroll through the streets of Kathmandu before your departure. We can provide you a guide as well.In the evening, a farewell dinner is hosted by Adventure Club Trek. Overnight in Kathmandu.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude1,350m/4,429ft

Adventure Club Trek will manage a farewell drive to the international airport for your final flight departure. Meeting you and serving you was a wonderful experience over the weeks. We are sure you enjoyed a wonderful holiday in beautiful Nepal. We hope you will remember us in the years ahead.

  • MealsBreakfast

Note: Your safety is of the utmost concern whilst you are traveling with Adventure Club Trek. We will make every effort possible to follow the original itinerary but we reserve the right to change that itinerary if a segment of it becomes a safety issue. Certain mountain regions are remote, natural disasters can happen, weather conditions can decline and there can be illnesses or an injury. To avoid dangerous situations we may occasionally have to make changes to the itinerary to ensure everyone’s safety. That having been said, Adventure Club Trek will strive to provide you with the best possible trekking experience and to keep your safety our number one priority. We thank you for your understanding.

Cost Details

Price Includes

  • Arrival and departure transfers on both domestic and international flights.
  • Standard Hotel accommodations in Kathmandu, Pokhara, Nagarkot, Lumbini, Palpa on Bed and  Breakfast basis.
  • Best available guesthouses accommodation during the trek
  • Full board meals with tea/coffee (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
  • 2 night 3 days Resort  accoddodation in Chitwan jungle safari with all meals included.
  • Welcome and farewell dinners
  • Comfortable private vehicle for transportation
  • All sightseeing and jungle activities fees as per the itinerary
  • Staff costs including their, Food, salary, accommodation, transportation and medicine.
  • Insurance covering all staff, including porters as per state law.
  • English speaking, trained and experienced local tour guide
  • Down jacket and sleeping bag (to be returned after trip completion).
  • Annapurna Conservation Park permits and TIMS permit for trekking.
  • Complimentary Adventure Club Trek T-shirt, and trekking map
  • Duffle bag for the trekking.
  • Medical kit (carried by your trek leader)
  • All applicable taxes and service charges

Price Excludes

  • Nepal visa (USD 25 for 15 days and USD 40 for 30 days).
  • International airfare to and from Kathmandu
  • Excess baggage charges
  • All meals except breakfast/ package in Chitwan
  • Personal expenses (alcoholic drinks, bottled water, cold drinks).
  • Extra night accommodation if needed
  • Travel and rescue insurance
  • Tips for guide, porters, and drivers (tipping is expected, but it is not mandatory).

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