Nepal: A Cultural Journey
Example Itinerary
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Overview
From snow capped mountains to green rolling hills, lush forested valleys and dusty plains teeming with wildlife, Nepal is known for having some of the most dramatic and breath-taking scenery in Asia. The kingdom is also home to scores of ethnic groups, each with their own traditions, language and heritage making up the rich tapestry of the nation. This tour allows you to take in the stunning scenery while getting beneath the surface of cultural Nepal. Travelling overland along smaller roads through ...
From snow capped mountains to green rolling hills, lush forested valleys and dusty plains teeming with wildlife, Nepal is known for having some of the most dramatic and breath-taking scenery in Asia. The kingdom is also home to scores of ethnic groups, each with their own traditions, language and heritage making up the rich tapestry of the nation. This tour allows you to take in the stunning scenery while getting beneath the surface of cultural Nepal. Travelling overland along smaller roads through rural villages and farmlands gives you a fascinating insight into Nepali life, stop off on drives to visit rural bazaars and take tea in remote villages. Visit the historic centres of Patan and Kathmandu then hike to monasteries in Namobuddha and visit the holy Hindu temple of Janakpur. Search for wildlife in Chitwan, visit the birthplace of the Buddha and take a boat trip on Phewa Lake in Pokhara before spending time in rural mountain communities. Hiking between villages through farmland introduces you to the farmers and ancient farming techniques still in use today and a final stop in Bhaktapur gives you the opportunity to learn the techniques of Nepali cuisine.
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TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
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Example Itinerary
This is an example itinerary. Our experts have all travelled widely in the region and will be happy to tailor any of our itineraries to suit your tastes and budget, or build a trip from scratch.
Day 1 Kathmandu – Patan: Arrival
Arrive in to Kathmandu airport where you will be met and transferred to your hotel in nearby Patan, in the historic Durbar Square.
Day 2 Patan: Historic Patan & Kritipur
Patan’s historic core is a tangle of streets around the Durbar Square, on your walking tour this morning enter through the Patan Gate, the historical entry point and pass through narrow alleyways and broad squares lined with artisans and markets. Patan is known for its artisans and you will see wooden and stone carvings along with ornate architecture in the royal palaces and temples of the harmonious Durbar Square. This afternoon head to Kirtipur, another historic city which occupied a strategic position in the Kathmandu Valley and is home to a labyrinth of brick and stone streets as well as being the region’s centre of higher education. This evening you will head to a local home in Patan and learn the art of momo making, these traditional dumplings are a staple of Nepali cuisine.
Day 3 Patan – Kathmandu – Namobuddha: Bazaars, Palaces & Stupas
A morning visit to Kathmandu allows you the opportunity to see the daily rituals and routines of the locals, their lifestyles intermingled with religious activities. A walking tour begins at Asan Til, deep in the traditional bazaar, as the shops and stalls open for the day and heads south to Durbar Square past the pottery bazaar. The temples and palaces of Durbar Square date back centuries, whilst some were damaged in the 2015 earthquake, the complex is a living heritage of Nepali architecture. Continue on through Thamel, traditionally the touristic part of Kathmandu seeing the influx in the 60s and 70s and now receiving thousands of trekkers annually. Head up to the 2000 year old Buddhist stupa of Swayambunath, set on a hilltop and surrounded by monasteries it is an important pilgrimage site in Kathmandu. Leaving the city you will drive through the Newari village of Panauti home to some beautiful pagodas and ancient houses before arriving at the Namobuddha Resort nestled in the serene forest on the hillside.
Day 5 Namobuddha: Village & Monastery Hike
Today is spent hiking in the mountains of Namobuddha visiting various historic and religious monuments where an immense array of fluttering prayer flags lead the way to the stupas and monasteries. Visit a stupa commemorating the place where legend has it a prince offered his life to a tigress to feed her hungry cubs before stopping at a monastery which includes a school for young monks. The route back will take you through some Newari and Tamang villages, don’t be surprised if you are welcomed by the locals, pleased and honoured to see a visitor.
Day 5 Namobuddha – Janakpur: Drive to the Terai
Take the opportunity to witness a beautiful sunrise over the mountains from the vantage point of the resort before you head through mountain villages, along flowing rivers and amongst green hills to reach the Terai. Janakpur is the birthplace of Sita, the wife of Ram in the Hindu epic the Ramayana and the city which bears strong resemblance to Indian cities is home to a number of temples and historic water tanks. Take a walk around the city which attracts many pilgrims.
Day 6 Janakpur: Janaki Mandir Temple
Rise early to join the pilgrims at the Janaki Mandir Temple and witness the morning puja or prayer service. The temple is reminiscent of Mughal Rajasthani palaces and unlike any other in Nepal. A drive around the town then shows you the many murals and mud sculptures of animals and birds that can be found on homes, similar to desert designs in Rajasthan. Visit a peaceful mango grove this afternoon where you will find the Janakpur Womens’ Development Centre, a NGO which empowers women through the use of traditional arts.
Day 7 Janakpur – Chitwan: Gharial & Crocodile Centres
A drive to Chitwan takes you through the Parsa National Park along a quieter road which sees few cars and where there are chances of spotting wildlife. After the dusty plains and the remote villages enter the dense forest of Chitwan National Park. Visit the Gharial and Crocodile breeding programmes which have been doing important work in the conservation of these animals. Your accommodation tonight is set amidst the forest on the banks of the Rapti River.
Day 8 Chitwan: Forest Safaris
You will have a full day to explore Chitwan National park spotting wildlife with the experienced naturalists. Head out on a jeep safari to get amongst the thick forest or take a boat safari on the lake where birdlife can be spotted. There are opportunities for walking safaris as well introducing you to some of the flora in the park as well as the smaller animals. If you are lucky today you may spot an elusive Bengal tiger or perhaps a one-horned rhino, jackal or fishing cat amongst others.
Day 9 Chitwan – Lumbini:
There is time for another foray into the park this morning to see some more wildlife ahead of a drive to Lumbini, the birthplace of the Buddha. The route takes you past the Triveni Dam built on the confluence of three rivers and through a number of villages. By taking these rural roads you can see into the heartland of Nepal and have access to communities that few other tourists will see, stopping for tea and a walk in one or two of them to break your journey will be a fascinating insight into the people of the region.
Day 10 Lumbini: Ancient Buddhist Centre
Spend the day exploring Lumbini, one of the most important historical sites in Nepal and home to a large number of archaeological ruins. A collection of Buddhist centres and monasteries can now be found in the town along with the Ashokan Pillar dating from the 3rd Century BC and the ruins of Tilaurakot, the childhood home of the Buddha and from where he set out on his journey to enlightenment. The Jagdishpur Reservoir is the largest in Nepal and you can stop by here to spot some of the birdlife, many of them endangered, that make the reservoir their home.
Day 11 Lumbini – Tansen: Mountain Town
Drive back towards the mountains today. Leaving the plains you soon find yourselves in the green hills of mid-west Nepal with the snow-capped mountains coming into sight ahead of you. Arriving into Tansen, a serene town on the southern slope of Shrinigar Mountain known for its ancient culture and friendly people, the afternoon is free for you to explore. There are a number of palaces and mansions which have housed exiled royal family members as well as many temples built by artisans of Kathmandu.
Day 12 Tansen – Pokhara: Traditional Workshops & Crafts
Rise early for a walk on Shrinigar Hill in the early morning sun before visiting some of the cultural sights of the town including the traditional workshops producing and selling local products such as the traditional woven dhaka cloth and deep metal plates and water jugs. Drive on to Pokhara, this delightful city sits on Phewa Lake, Nepal’s second largest and is overlooked by the Annapurna Range whose highest peak reaches 8091m. Take a wander around the old bazaar this afternoon.
Day 13 Pokhara: Lakes & Mountain Views
A day in Pokhara takes you to the International Mountain Museum before you head out on a boat trip on Phewa Lake where you can visit the Barahi Temple located on an island in the lake. Head to the World Peace Pagoda, a large Buddhist monument set on a hill above the lake and then to Pumdikot, a vast Shiva statue, from both there are panoramic views of the city and lake. A stop at the Women’s Skills Development Centre shows you some of the traditionally made beautiful woven handicrafts which make a lovely souvenir.
Day 14 Pokhara – Bandipur: Bazaar & Newari Architecture
Leaving Pokhara this morning for Bandipur, the route takes you through the mountains for views of Begnas Lake and Rupa Lake before driving through the countryside learning about the rural farming techniques. Bandipur is known for its beautiful scenery featuring snow-capped mountains above the terraced farmlands along with its 19th Century mansions, busy bazaar and many temples. This afternoon explore the bazaar and temples including the rich wood carving of the Bindebasini Temple, housing the goddess Durga, Bandipur’s guardian deity.
Day 15 Bandipur – Rankot – Gorkha: Hike Through Rural Communities
Set out on foot following a trail through rural communities to Rankot, a Magar village with wooden-balconied houses, round thatched cottages and panoramic views of the Himalayas. Drive on to Gorkha, the ancestral home of the Nepali royal family and a picturesque hill resort. Climb the steep stone staircase to the Gorka Durbar to explore the palace with its unmistakable Newari architecture and intricate decoration.
Day 16 Gorkha – Marchu – Nuwakot: Walk Amongst Farmland
Take a morning hike to Marchu village, inhabited by Magars, an ethnic community of the mid-hills. Enjoy a variety of scenery as you walk along the river, through sal forest, farmland and paddy fields before heading uphill through villages. From Marchu you will drive on to Nuwakot where the nine hills are considered to each have their own deity to protect the village. Whilst damaged by the 2015 earthquake, the village remains of historic importance and has excellent views.
Day 17 Nuwakot: At Leisure & Cookery Class
Today is at leisure to experience the village, wander the narrow lanes and meet the local inhabitants, the village provides you with an excellent chance to support the local economy. This afternoon you will take a cookery class to learn how to make the traditional staple dish of dhal vat, Nepali rice and lentils.
Day 18 Nuwakot – Bhaktapur: Ancient Crafts
Drive through the green landscape of Shivapuri National Park on your way to Bhaktapur today. The ancient city of Bhaktapur is known for its rich cultural heritage, exquisite art and remarkable craftsmanship. This afternoon visit the main squares, each known for different crafts before embarking on a tour with a wood carver, visiting their home, their workshop and hearing their stories. Along with the wood carver you will learn of the different guilds of the artisans of Bhaktapur.
Day 19 Bhaktapur: City Sounds & Rituals
Rise early to watch the city come to life, the people of Bhaktapur follow traditional lives and you will see them heading to the temples in their traditional attire, performing sacred rituals and observations and connecting you to the city’s timeless traditions. As the sun rises and the marketplace awakens, the town bustles with colour, energy and the aromatic scent of spices and freshly brewed chiya. You will explore the bazaar with a local lady buying the ingredients for a traditional meal which you can help cook with the family before sitting down to enjoy the meal together and share stories and cultures on your final day in Nepal.
Day 20 Bhaktapur – Kathmandu: Departure
You will be transferred to Kathmandu airport for your return flight.
EXAMPLE ACCOMMODATION
Fish Tail Lodge, Pokhara
With its unique location at the end of Lake Phewa, Fish Tail Lodge offers outstanding views down the lake and up to the Annapurna mountain range. The lodge is made up of low-level buildings that can accommodate 12 standard rooms and 48 newer ‘standard’ rooms, each with its own patio overlooking the garden, pool, lake or forested shore on the opposite side of the island. Each room comes with an en suite bathroom, fridge, TV and air conditioning. The hotel’s restaurant serves a la carte and buffet style, Asian and continental meals, and there is also a fitness centre, spa and outdoor pool on site for guests to use.
Barahi Jungle Lodge, Chitwan National Park
Barahi Jungle Lodge's ambient outlook and soft interiors provide an insight into the aboriginal Tharu culture of Nepal interlaced with the wilderness of Chitwan National Park. An oasis within the savannahs surrounding Rapti River, the Barahi Jungle Lodge is designed to be in harmony with nature and mankind. Set within twelve hectares of land, the lodge blends effortlessly with the surrounding environment and sets a high standard in eco operations through use of local bamboo and sustainable woods for construction. The team of naturalists have a fleet of jeeps and boats at their disposal, ensuring optimal wildlife viewing in the Chitwan. The experienced therapists from Nepal's leading Spa centre keep guests relaxed in the in-house spa overlooking the forest. Paired with the hotel's infinity pool and restaurant and bar, there is nowhere more ideal for resting off any jungle fatigue. Discover the wonders of Chitwan from your lodge through bird watching tours, boat safaris, village tours, elephant bathing and Tharu cultural shows and workshops. Thirty-four rooms are built within deluxe cottages, six interconnecting. Each feature a private balcony with private views of the jungle and traditional Nepalese furnishings.
The Inn At Patan, Patan
The Inn at Patan Hotel is a boutique guest house situated in Patan city. The Inn is an old traditional brick and timber Newari house transformed into a beautiful heritage hotel. The Inn has complimentary Wi-Fi as well as its own restaurant which offers great views of the city. The guest house is made up of 10 spacious and comfortable rooms, each room comes with a double bed, ensuite bathroom facilities, slippers and complimentary toiletries.
Gorkha Gaun Resort, Gorkha
Only a four hour drive from Kathmandu, the Gorkha Gaun Resort is a tranquil outdoor mountain paradise. Set in a village near Shikhar Community Forest, the accommodation offers the chance to hike, experience farmland life, see local musicians play, take part in a cooking class or go cycling. Although the accommodation lacks luxuries, there is no air-conditioning and heating, the location more than makes up for it. The eco-resort uses natural materials such as stones and mud to ensure the cottage rooms are insulated and can withstand the changing seasons. In the winter, hot water bottles are provided. There is a restaurant with great views of the valley below and the surrounding mountains, accompanied by a cosy fire. Seasonal produce is served in a menu of continental and Nepali dishes.
Hotel Old Inn Bandipur, Bandipur
The Hotel Old Inn is a charming traditional lodge with great views of the Himalayan mountains. The cute courtyard with potted plants and green vines welcomes you to the hotel. The rustic rooms have wooden panels on the windows and wooden beams, creating a cosy and homely atmosphere. There is no air-conditioning or television, but during a short stay in this pretty village, they won’t be missed. Enjoy the Nepali cuisine in the restaurant or on the terrace. The staff are friendly and obliging to ensure a pleasant stay in this gorgeous mountain setting.
Hotel Rating
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Accommodation listed here is intended as a guide only, to give you a taste of what we can do. Our experts can tailor any aspect of this itinerary and accommodation to suit your budget and tastes.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
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WILD MILES
ACCOMMODATION
Wild Miles Club
When you book a trip with Wild Frontiers you are awarded points, which are based on the return distance from London to the arrival city of your trip. Points are awarded for all our holidays, including both our escorted group tours and tailor-made trips. When you accrue points, you will qualify for the following discounts on all future bookings:
| Blue | More than 10,000 points | 2.5% discount |
| Bronze | More than 30,000 points | 5% discount |
| Silver | More than 45,000 points | 7.5% discount |
| Gold | More than 60,000 points | 10% discount |
This itinerary is aimed to give you an idea of what we can offer. The price shown above is per person, based on two people travelling outside of peak periods. As this itinerary is only a suggestion and can be tailor-made to suit your interests and budget, your final price may differ.
Positive Impact of this Trip
Making a Difference
Community Tourism
People and local communities have always been at the heart of Wild Frontiers and the travel experiences we offer. Through community tourism we have the opportunity to generate real positive impact, supporting people we visit through sustainable local development, and in turn help to alleviate poverty and protect culture and environments in often more vulnerable destinations. While doing so, our clients gain richer travel experiences and more meaningful connections with the people they meet.
Conservation and Climate Action
As a travel company, we hold a responsibility to minimise our environmental footprint and contribute to sustainability, and work closely with local communities to support their efforts. By implementing initiatives such as carbon measuring, tree-planting, reducing single-use plastic and promoting eco-friendly practices, we can help mitigate the negative impacts of tourism on fragile ecosystems and local communities. Additionally, prioritising conservation efforts helps preserve natural habitats and wildlife, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the wonders of our planet.
Wild Frontiers Foundation
The Wild Frontiers Foundation aims to provide a platform to create awareness, raise money and deliver funding to projects in countries where we operate as a travel company. Through the foundation, we are able to channel money into grass roots projects, which we have either established ourselves or support through charity partners. These include initiatives focused around education, the empowerment of local people and community conservation.
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Whether you are looking for a boutique hotel, homestay, local guesthouse, luxury spa, tented camp or heritage hotel, our experts can select the perfect property for you.
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Our local agents are there to help you on the ground should you need any assistance, and in addition you will be given a 24-hour UK emergency phone number.Meet the expert, Shalmali
Shalmali is our Indian Subcontinent expert, who has travelled extensively in the region.
Speak to Shalmali by calling
+44 (0)20 3944 6258
OTHER ITINERARIES IN NEPAL
Check out our group tours in Nepal
As well as private tailor-made trips, we also offer small group tours (max size 12) to Nepal. Led by an experienced tour leader, travel with a group of like-minded people on one of our award-winning group tours.
View Group Tours in Nepal