The Ultimate Wonders of Everest, UNESCO Gems & Wild Jungles

The Experience: Land at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) where you’ll be greeted with a traditional welcome.

Activity: Transfer to your hotel in Thamel or anywhere in the center of Kathmandu. In the evening, enjoy a Welcome Dinner at a traditional Nepalese restaurant featuring a cultural dance performance to kick off your journey.

The Morning: Touching the Heavens

The day begins with a literal “high.” You will be transferred to the airport for the legendary Everest Mountain Flight. As the plane rises, the urban sprawl of Kathmandu fades, replaced by the jagged, snow-capped giants of the Himalayas.

The View: You’ll see 20 of the world’s highest peaks, including Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and Ama Dablam.

The Moment: The climax of the flight is Mount Everest (8,848m). Seeing the world’s highest point at eye level is a profound, life-changing experience that truly earns the title “Roof of the World.”

The Souvenir: Each passenger receives a commemorative mountain flight certificate to mark this aerial pilgrimage.

The Afternoon: Walking Through Time

After descending from the clouds, you will dive into the “Living History” of the Kathmandu Valley. This isn’t just a museum visit; it is an immersion into active spiritual centers that have remained unchanged for centuries.

Pashupatinath Temple: Stand on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River at Nepal’s most significant Hindu temple. Witness the ancient rituals of life and death, and meet the ash-smeared Sadhus (holy men) who embody the city’s living faith.

Boudhanath Stupa: Join the hundreds of pilgrims circling the massive white dome of one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world. The smell of incense, the humming of “Om Mani Padme Hum,” and the watchful “Eyes of Buddha” create an atmosphere of deep peace.

Kathmandu Durbar Square: Explore the heart of the old city. This UNESCO site is a complex of palaces, courtyards, and temples. If you are lucky, you may catch a glimpse of the Kumari, the world’s only Living Goddess, at her window in the carved wooden palace.

Patan Durbar Square: Explore city of fine arts, Lalitpur for its impressive medieval period artistry and one of the finest musuem collection in Asia.

Key Highlights for this Day:

Guaranteed Window Seat: Every traveler gets a clear view of the peaks during the flight.

Expert Insight: Your local guide will explain the intricate woodcarvings and the hidden meanings behind the Tantric symbols in the temples.

The Contrast: Go from the silent, frozen peaks of the North to the vibrant, bustling, and incense-filled streets of the city in just a few hours.

The Medieval Capital: Bhaktapur Durbar Square

After breakfasthead to the “City of Devotees.” Explore the 55-Window Palace, the towering Nyatapola Temple (the tallest in Nepal), and the famous Pottery Square. Bhaktapur is entirely vehicle-free, allowing you to hear the artisans at work and the bells of the ancient shrines.

The Oldest Legacy: Changu Narayan Temple

Next, drive to the hilltop of Changu. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a masterpiece of Newari architecture and home to 4th-century stone inscriptions. Walking through the quiet village leading to the temple feels like stepping back 1,500 years into Nepal’s Licchavi history.

The Thrill: Crossing the Suspension Bridges

As you begin the scenic climb toward Nagarkot, we stop at one of the region’s iconic long suspension bridges. These “Himalayan swings” offer a rush of adrenaline and a perfect panoramic view of the terraced farming valleys below—a must-have photo for your Nepal collection.

The Golden Hour: Nagarkot View Point Sunset

Arrive in Nagarkot (2,175m) and head straight to the hilltop view point. As the sun begins to dip, you will witness the “Alpenglow” effect, where the white peaks of the Langtang and Ganesh Himal ranges transform into vibrant shades of orange, pink, and gold.

The Overnight Stay:

Check into your resort for a peaceful evening in the crisp mountain air, ready for the 360-degree Himalayan sunrise the following morning.

The Dawn Spectacle: Nagarkot Sunrise

Wake up before the sun to witness one of the most famous panoramas in the world. From your hotel balcony or the Nagarkot View Tower, watch as the first light touches the “8 of the 13” major Himalayan ranges visible from here.

The Lineup: On clear days, you can spot the peaks of the Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Langtang, Jugal, Rolwaling, Mahalangur (Everest), and Numbur ranges.

The Experience: The silence of the morning is broken only by the shifting colors of the snow—from a ghostly blue to a fiery, molten orange.

The Scenic Highway: Drive to Bandipur (5–6 Hours)

After a hearty breakfast, begin the drive toward central Nepal along the winding Prithvi Highway.

Riverside Views: The road follows the turquoise waters of the Trishuli River, where you can see rafters navigating the rapids.

Local Life: Pass through bustling roadside markets selling fresh oranges and local snacks, with terraced rice fields creating a patchwork of green across the hills.

The Ascent: Leaving the highway at Dumre, you’ll climb 700 meters up a series of switchbacks to reach the “Queen of Hills”—Bandipur.

The Evening: A Stroll Through a Living Museum

Arriving in Bandipur feels like entering a different century.

Vehicle-Free Serenity: Unlike any other town in Nepal, the main bazaar is strictly pedestrian-only. There are no car horns—just the sound of locals chatting and the distant ringing of temple bells.

18th-Century Grandeur: Stroll along the flagstoned streets lined with three-story Newari townhouses. Admire the intricate wooden lattice windows, red-brick facades, and cascading bougainvillea.

The Ambiance: With its outdoor cafe tables, street lamps, and quiet pace, Bandipur has earned its reputation as the “European Cafe Town of the Himalayas.” Enjoy a cup of locally grown coffee as the fog rolls into the Marsyangdi Valley below, creating a “sea of clouds” at your feet.

The Morning: Spiritual Heights or Underground Wonders

Before leaving Bandipur, you have two distinct choices for your final morning adventure:

Thani Mai Temple (The Viewpoint): Take a short 30-minute hike up to Gurungche Hill. At the summit, the Thani Mai Temple offers a breathtaking 360-degree panorama. You’ll see the Marsyangdi Valley cloaked in a “sea of clouds” while the peaks of Annapurna and Manaslu tower above the mist. It is widely considered one of the most serene viewpoints in central Nepal.

Siddha Gufa (The Adventure): If you prefer a thrill, trek down to the largest cave in Nepal. Descending 437 meters into the earth, this cathedral-like limestone cavern is filled with prehistoric stalactites, stalagmites, and hundreds of whistling bats. It is a raw, untouched piece of geology that feels like a journey to the center of the earth.

The Scenic Drive: Descending to the Lake City (2.5–3 Hours)

The drive to Pokhara is short but visually stunning.

The Route: You’ll descend from the Bandipur ridge back to the Prithvi Highway, following the Seti and Madi rivers.

The Arrival: As you enter Pokhara ($822m$), the air becomes warmer and the landscape opens up. The jagged “Fishtail” peak (Machhapuchhre) suddenly appears, looming over the city like a silent guardian.

The Evening: Sunset Boating & The Island Temple

After checking into your lakeside hotel, head to the banks of Phewa Lake, Nepal’s second-largest lake, for a deeply relaxing evening.

Phewa Lake Boating: Rent a brightly painted wooden Doonga (boat). As you row across the calm, emerald waters, you’ll see the Annapurna range perfectly reflected on the surface—a phenomenon known as the “Mirror of the Himalayas.”

Tal Barahi Temple: Row to the center of the lake to visit this two-story golden pagoda temple. Dedicated to Goddess Durga, this island shrine is a hub of spiritual energy where you can watch the evening Aarti (prayer) rituals.

Lakeside Stroll: End your night with a walk along the vibrant Lakeside Road. This world-famous strip is lined with artisan shops, book stores, and international cafes, offering the perfect “chill” vibe that Pokhara is famous for.

The Golden Dawn: Sarangkot Sunrise

Your day begins before first light with a drive up to Sarangkot Hill ($1,600m$). This is arguably the most famous sunrise spot in all of Nepal.

The View: As the sun breaks over the horizon, the Annapurna Range and the massive Dhaulagiri ($8,167m$) are set ablaze in shades of crimson and gold.

The Icon: You will have a front-row seat to the “Matterhorn of the Himalayas”—Mt. Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). Its distinct pointed peak stands so close it feels within reach.

The Valley: Below, you’ll see the Pokhara Valley slowly waking up, with the morning mist clinging to the surface of Phewa Lake.

The Earth’s Power: Devi’s Fall (Patale Chhango)

In the afternoon, visit a waterfall unlike any other. Named after a tragic legend, Devi’s Fall is where the Pardi Khola stream suddenly plunges into a deep, narrow gorge and disappears completely underground. During the monsoon, the roar of the water is thunderous, creating a mist that blankets the surrounding garden.

The Sacred Depths: Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave

Just across the street from the waterfall, descend a dramatic spiral staircase into the longest cave in Nepal.

The Temple: Deep inside the first chamber lies a sacred Shiva Lingam, a natural rock formation worshipped by thousands of pilgrims.

The Hidden View: If you venture further into the damp, dark tunnels (lit by soft lamps), you reach a metal fence where you can look up and see the water from Devi’s Fall crashing down into the cave’s depths from the world above.

The Mountaineer’s Spirit: International Mountain Museum

End your sightseeing at this world-class museum dedicated to the “Himalayan Giants.”

The Exhibits: Explore the Hall of the Great Himalayas, featuring 3D models of the peaks and the original gear used by early summiters like Tenzing Norgay and Sir Edmund Hillary.

The Culture: Learn about the “Mountain People”—the Sherpas, Thakalis, and Gurungs—who have called these high altitudes home for centuries.

The Challenge: Outside, admire the replica of Mt. Manaslu and the memorial gardens dedicated to those who lost their lives chasing the summits.

The Evening: Lakeside Leisure

Your final evening in Pokhara is yours to enjoy at a slower pace.

Vibrant Lakeside: The “Thamel of Pokhara” comes alive at night. Wander the colorful streets to shop for hand-knotted pashminas, singing bowls, or trekking gear.

Cafe Culture: Relax at a garden cafe with live acoustic music, or enjoy a “Sundowner” cocktail overlooking the moonlit lake.

The Scenic Transition: Drive to the Lowlands (4–5 Hours)

The journey from Pokhara to Chitwan is a beautiful descent.

The Route: You will follow the winding Marsyangdi and Narayani rivers, watching the landscape shift from steep terraced hills to flat, lush farmlands.

The Climate Shift: As you reach the subtropical belt ($150text{m}$), the air becomes noticeably warmer and thicker. You’ll pass through local markets selling tropical fruits like bananas and mangoes before arriving at your jungle resort.

The Afternoon: Tharu Village Walk & Cultural Immersion

After a welcome drink, check in to the Hotel and a brief orientation from your Naturalist Guide. After you will have your lunch at Hotel, you’ll step into the world of the Tharu people, the indigenous “People of the Forest” who have lived here for centuries.

Mud-and-Reed Huts: Walk through a traditional Tharu village where houses are built from mud, clay, and grass. Look for the intricate traditional paintings on the walls that depict local folklore and nature.

Sustainable Living: Watch the villagers as they carry out daily tasks—hand-weaving baskets, tending to their livestock, or preparing organic meals from their gardens. It is a rare glimpse into a lifestyle that remains deeply connected to the rhythm of the jungle.

The Evening: High-Energy Stick Dance & Riverside Dining

As the sun begins to set, the cultural experience moves to a communal stage.

The Tharu Stick Dance (Lathi Nach): This is a vibrant, rhythmic performance originally designed as a way to ward off wild animals from the village. Men and women in traditional white costumes clash bamboo sticks in a mesmerizing, synchronized circle, moving to the beat of the Madal (drum).

The Fire Dance: The energy peaks with the “Fire Dance,” a daring display of bravery and heritage.

The Morning: Gliding with Giants & River Safaris

Your day starts at dawn, when the jungle is most active.

Canoe Ride on the Rapti: Board a traditional hand-carved dugout canoe for a silent drift down the Rapti River. In the morning mist, you’ll spot Mugger Crocodiles basking in the sun and the rare, fish-eating Gharial with its distinct long snout. It is also a paradise for birdwatchers, with kingfishers, egrets, and storks frequenting the banks.

Elephant Breeding Center: After your river trip, visit the first elephant breeding center in Asia. Here, you’ll learn about conservation efforts and see baby elephants playing under the watchful eyes of their mothers. It’s a heartwarming experience that highlights the park’s commitment to protecting these majestic creatures.

The Afternoon: Into the Deep Jungle (Jeep Safari)

After lunch and a short rest, the adrenaline kicks in as you board an open-top 4WD Jeep for a Deep Jungle Safari.

Tracking the One-Horned Rhino: Chitwan is world-famous for its population of the Great One-horned Rhinoceros. Your expert naturalist will track footprints and sounds to bring you face-to-face with these prehistoric-looking giants.

The Big Cats & Beyond: Keep your camera ready as you traverse Sal forests and vast grasslands (Phanta). You’ll be on the lookout for Sloth Bears, Spotted Deer, Wild Boars, and the ultimate prize—the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger.

Jungle Symphony: Your guide will point out the complex “alarm calls” of monkeys and deer that signal a predator is nearby, making you part of the jungle’s natural drama.

The Evening: Riverside “Sundowner” & Reflection

After the thrill of the safari, return to the riverbank for a well-deserved moment of peace.

The Sundowner: Grab a cold drink and find a spot at a riverside bar or deck. “Sundowners” are a safari tradition—watching the sun set over the jungle horizon as the sky turns a fiery red.

The Night Calls: As darkness falls, the sounds of the jungle change. Listen to the symphony of crickets and the distant roar of the river while you enjoy a final bush-style dinner under the stars.

As your journey nears its conclusion, we move from the wild heart of the jungle back to the bustling energy of the capital. This transition allows you to reflect on your adventures while securing the perfect mementos of your Himalayan odyssey.

The Morning: The Jungle’s Morning Chorus (Bird Watching)

Wake up to the melodic symphony of the Terai. Before leaving Chitwan, join your naturalist for an early morning Bird Watching tour along the banks of the Rapti River and the surrounding buffer zone forests.

The Avian Wealth: Chitwan is a global hotspot for birders, home to over 500 species. You’ll look for the vibrant Great Hornbill, the elusive Bengal Florican, and various species of kingfishers, flycatchers, and sunbirds.

The Serenity: There is a unique peace in the jungle at dawn, watching the mist rise off the marshlands as rare migratory birds begin their day.

The Journey: From Plains to Peaks (Travel to Kathmandu)

After a final jungle breakfast, it’s time to head back to Kathmandu. You have two scenic options for this leg of the trip:

The Scenic Drive (5–6 Hours): Retrace the winding path along the Trishuli River. It’s a great chance to see the terraced hills and rural villages one last time, perhaps stopping for a final cup of local Masala tea at a roadside stall.

The Evening: Thamel Treasures & Last minute shopping

Back in Kathmandu, the evening is dedicated to celebration and celebration-shopping.

Last-Minute Shopping in Thamel: Dive into the colorful alleys of Thamel to find those final treasures. Whether it’s a hand-painted Thangka, a resonant Singing Bowl, a soft Pashmina shawl, or local Himalayan Coffee, this is the place to find authentic Nepali craftsmanship.

Dinner & Cultural Show: Celebrate your journey’s end with a grand Dinner at a traditional restaurant like Bhojan Griha or Nepali Chulo or any other restaurant where you are more comfortable with, Housed in a historic palace setting, you’ll enjoy a multi-course authentic Nepali Thali served on brass plates.

As your 10-day journey through the “Land of the Gods” comes to an end, we don’t like to say goodbye. In Nepal, we say “Pheri Bhetaunla,” which translates to “Until we meet again.”

You arrived as a guest, but you leave as a member of our global family. You have stood at the foot of the world’s highest peaks, walked through the “living museums” of our ancestors, and breathed the wild air of the jungle. While you may be boarding a flight back home, a piece of the Himalayas will now always travel with you.

Our private vehicle will escort you to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) with ample time for a traditional farewell ceremony, allowing you a quiet moment to reflect on your Himalayan journey before your departure.