Cultural Nepal
GLIMPSE OF NEPAL
Nepal, officially the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, is a landlocked sovereign state located in South Asia. It is located in the Himalayas and is bordered to the north by the People’s Republic of China and to the south, east and west by the Republic of India. With an area of 147,181 square kilometers (56,827 square miles) and a population of approximately 30 million, Nepal is the 93rdlargest country in the world by landmass and the 41st most populous country. Kathmandu is the capital of the country and the largest metropolis in the country.
You can take a close look at how beautifully sculpted and carved the Hindu temples and shrines in the Kathmandu Valley, its colorful bazaars, and the eclectic atmosphere that covers it are. The exquisite calligraphy and carvings of incredible works of art, the skill of the painters and artists who created murals and images can be seen up close in every corner of Kathmandu.
Outline Itinerary: –
Day 01: Arrive Kathmandu, group welcome dinner with traditional dance
Day 02: Visit Boudhanath (light up butter lamps, lama blessings in a monastey).
Visit Patan with singing bowl therapy.
Visit Pasupatinath with Pandit for a offering ceremony in holy river
Day 03: Kathmandu – Changu – hike to Telkot – Nagarkot
Meditation session with sunset.
Day 04: Nagarkot – Nala hike – Dhulikhel (5-6hrs) – Bhaktapur
Day 05: Visit Bhaktapur (Local curd taste, pottery, thangka class, cooking class, etc.)
Drive to phurping and check in at Neydo monastery. Our evening activities at the monastery.
Day 06: Visit Dakshinkali temple, Asura cave, and other monasteries in Phurping. Drive back to Kathmandu via Kirtipur.
Day 07: Kathmandu – Rafting at Trishuli River – Bandipur, visit the famous Bandipur market and surroundings
Day 08: Visit Thani Mai Temple. Drive to Begnas, boat ride to visit Begnas lake resort, lunch. Drive to Pokhara – Pumdikot – Kalabang homestay
Day 09: Visit Shiva statue, interaction with “AamaSamuha” (a group of married women, formed a cooperative group for entrepreneur activities)
Sightseeing in Pokhara city (Davi’s falls, Gupteshower cave, Tibetan refugee camp)
Day 10: Pokhara – Chitwan drive and jungle activities
Day 11: Jungle activities (jeep safari, elephant safari, canoe safari, tharu village visit, slide show, tharu cultural dance show etc)
Day 12: Chitwan – Lumbini drive (Visit Mayadevi Temple)
Day 13: Day in Lumbini (Visit the monasteries practicing Hinayana, Mahayana and Vajrayana philosophies of Buddhism)
Day 14: Lumbini – Kurintar drive. Explore Barhasinghe brewery, beer tasting, stay in the resort.
Day 15: Morning: Visit Manakamana Temple in a cable car. Drive back to Kathmandu.
Day 16: Depart Kathmandu
Detailed Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu (Check-in: 1200 Hours)
Welcome to Kathmandu, Nepal.
Namaste!
Kathmandu the capital of Nepal situated in a valley, approximately at altitude of 4,600 ft. The city is the gateway to Nepal Tourism and the center of the country’s economy. Its history dates back to over 2000 years ago and it was the ancient trade route between India and Tibet, which originated a fusion of artistic and architectural traditions of other cultures that can be witnessed even today.
On arrival in Kathmandu: Having cleared immigration, collected your luggage and passed through customs, please make your way towards the exit of the terminal building where you will see a bank of people waiting. Amongst them will be an Office Representative who will be waiting to greet you with a paging board.
Transfer to hotel, and Check in.
In the evening, a Nepalese cuisine welcome-dinner with Cultural Dance in BhojanGriha Restaurant.
Enjoy an evening of traditional Nepalese culture as you taste various delicious local dishes and experience classical folk music and dances from all over Nepal. You can listen to traditional classical folk music performed live, watch elegant dances performed in beautiful, glittering costumes and experience and learn about Nepal's rich and diverse culture.
Drive back to the hotel.
Overnight is at hotel.
Day 02: Kathmandu / Patan / Kathmandu
Breakfast. Today, we will visit Boudhanath, Pashupatinath and Patan.
Boudhanath: Walk to Boudhanath which is possibly the world's largest Buddhist stupa (temple) and a site of great veneration for Buddhists. Around the stupa a number of monasteries have sprung up number of the different sects of Tibetan Buddhism including one (on the west side of the stupa) that houses an enormous seated statue of Maitreya Buddha splendidly adorned.
The Stupa is located in the area of ancient trade route to Tibet where Tibetan merchants rested and offered prayers for many centuries. When refugees entered Nepal from Tibet in the 1950s, many decided to live around Boudhanath. Hence, a complete township has developed around Boudhanath. The stupa is said to entomb the remains of a Kasyap sage venerable both to Buddhists and Hindus. Smaller Stupas are located at the base. Gompa monasteries, curio shops, and restaurants surround Boudhanath.
Witness Kora (circumbulation of stupa by Buddhists with prayer’s wheel and rosary in their hands and preaching “OM MANE PADME HUM”.
Enhancement Activities:
1. Light up the Butter lamp and offer to Buddha, this is Buddhist custom at the Stupa.
2. Visit Monastery near Bouddhanath and get blessing from High-Monk.
Continue towards Patan, city of fine arts: Patan is better known as "The city of thousands of golden roofs". Once separated from the capital, Patan and Kathmandu are now separated only by a bridge over the Bagmati River. The city of Patan has recovered its label of origin "Lalitpur".
The historic heart of the city is entangled with narrow streets and theatrical decoration: brick houses with carved wooden balconies and bronze decorations, courtyards and backyards that house oratories, temples, etc.
The city is famous throughout the country for its tradition of blacksmithing and goldsmithing. The artisans model effigies of the divinities of the Hindu and Buddhist pantheons. Many stupas, chaityas and bahals (ancient Buddhist monasteries) testify to the long history of Buddhism in the city that remains today a Bastion of Newars Buddhism in the Kathmandu Valley. The four stupas, erected at the four cardinal points, originally defined the city. They were erected during the reign of Emperor Ashoka some 250 years before our era.
Enhancement Activity1. Session with Singing Bowl
Singing bowl therapy: Metal Singing bowls are used to deepen meditation and promote relaxation. They produce sustained sounds and vibrations when hit or circled with a mallet.
Sound therapy and guided meditations often make use of singing bowls. Bowls of varying sizes are placed around the room, around your body, or on your body. You can use them by yourself or with the help of a meditation or healing practitioner.
Later, visit Pashupatinath which is one of the holiest Hindu Shrines. This is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the most important religious sites among the four in the world. Pashupatinath Temple's existence dates back to 400 A.D. The temple covers a huge area and the river Baghmati flows through the premise which is a very holy river. Cremations of the Hindus take place on the river bank where there is a raised platform.
Thousands of pilgrims from all over the world come to pay homage to this temple that is also known as 'The Temple of Living Beings presiding deity here is Shiva, who is worshipped in the form of the lingam. However, only Hindus are allowed inside.
Connecting with the energy in this holiest place by Pundit guided offering ceremony.
Experience Aarti ceremony: Aarti is a Hindu religious ritual of worship, a part of puja, in which light from wicks soaked in ghee (purified butter) or camphor is offered to one or more deities. Here, when the lights/lamps are being offered to Pashupatinath the songs in praise of the lord Shiva are sung.
Drive back to the hotel.
Overnight is at hotel.
Day 03: Kathmandu / Chagu Narayan / Telkot / Nagarkot
Breakfast. We start the day with the visit ofChangu Narayan Temple.
Changu Narayan Temple: The oldest temple in the valley is the Changu Narayan Temple, located 22 km from Kathmandu and a 25-minute drive from Bhaktapur city. The original temple was built in the 4th century during the time of the Lichhavi rulers and is perched on a hill overlooking the Bhaktapur city. Much of it was rebuilt in the 18thcentury.
This temple is known for its beauty, location and age. It is a Vishnu temple. One of the oldest Lichhavi period stone inscriptions is also found here. A Vishnu image with ten heads and ten arms is another fine example of stone carving from the 5th century.
Short hike (approx. 1.5hrs) from Changu Narayan to Telkot
The area of hiking is along the scenic ridge of greeneries between Changunarayan hill and Telkot. The path is superbly spectacular with the wonderful sight of the valley down to the Kathmandu, Sankhu and Bhaktapur. The walk follows the saddle of a ridge with great views of the valley on one side and the Himalayas on the other. The route passes through small villages and farmlands that are almost always bustling with activity as the farmers work their fields. Few Tamang villages lie between Changu Narayan and Telkot.
Later, short drive toNagarkot.
Nagarkot is one of the most picturesque places in the Bhaktapur district and is famous for the spectacular sunrise view over the mighty Himalayan Mountain ranges. Located at an elevation of 2,195 meters, Nagarkot offers a panoramic view of the valley and is one of the best places to see Mount Everest and other snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. Nagarkot is surrounded by densely forested Pine Hills which provide an idyllic scene.
It is a rustic resort high up on the northern fringe of the Kathmandu Valley. It is an exceptional hill that offers great views of the Himalayas, breathtaking mountain landscapes and the most impressive views of sunrise and sunset. Nagarkot dominates one of the most expansive views of the Himalayas in the Kathmandu Valley (8 Himalayan ranges in Nepal from 13 from here). Ranges include Annapurna Range, Manaslu Range, Ganesh Himal Range, Langtang Range, Jugal Range, Rolwaling Range, Mahalangur Range (Everest Range), and Numbur Range with views of Kathmandu Valley and Shivapuri National Park.
Drive back to the hotel.
Overnight is at hotel.
Day 04: Nagarkot / Dhulikhel / Bhadgaon (Bhaktapur)
Early morning: sunrise and view of the magnificent mountain range from the hotel terrace
Breakfast. Today, we hike to Nala, and to Dhulikhel.
The trek will take through the lush greenery of the Kathmandu valley rim passing through two beautiful hill-stations (Nagarkot and dhulikhel) lying in the foothills of the Himalayas. This hike is an excellent choice for those planning to be in close with nature with a fresh mountain air inside a pine forests and villages before reaching the hill-station of Dhulikhel. It is a good 16 km walk with an altitude drop of more than 800 meters and will take around good 5 hours to complete this trekking with ever changing landscapes.
It is a panoramic trail in the valley rim and a part of Kathmandu valley cultural trekking trail with an altitudinal drop of 600 meters from Nagarkot (2100m) to Dhulikhel (1500m) above sea level. One enjoys the stunning views of the eastern and central Himalayas.
The highest peaks that can be seen here are Everest (8850m), Cho oyu (8), Manaslu (8156m), Annapurna(8010m), Dhaulagiri (8176m), shishapangma (8) along with lots of peaks above 7000 meters, 6000 meters. The crow fly distance of the mountains from Nagarkot ranges from 50km (jugal range of the nearest range of the Himalayas to the Kathmandu valley) to 150km far (Everest). Some famous that can be seen includes Numbur peak (6,958 m), melungtse (7,200 m), gauri Shankar(7,134 m), dorje lakpa (6,966 m), langtangri (7205 m), PhurbiChyachu (6,722 m), ganeshhimal(7,422 m), himalchuli (7,900m), Gur Karpo Ri (6,874 m), Gyaltzen Peak (6,705 m) etc.
You will pass through cool pine trees, terraced farmlands, villages and jungle again before reaching Dhulikhel.
The first part of the hike will go through the pine forests for around 10 km with sounds of birds chirping inside and the second part will be pass through terraced farmlands and villages of local people cultivating different vegetables for the remaining 8 km. It is a part of Kathmandu valley cultural trekking trail and is one of the best hiking routes within Kathmandu valley. This trekking can also be done in the thick of winter as it is below 3000 meters.
It is an ideal choice for trekkers who have limited time in Nepal however want to have a taste of trekking and also an ideal hiking to do acclimatization before heading up to the Himalayas. This hike can be done with family with children.
Visit the old part of Dhulikhel and drive towards Bhaktapur.
Transfer to the hotel and check in.
Overnight is at hotel.
Day 05: Bhaktapur / Pharping
Breakfast. We start the day with the sightseeing of Bhadgaon / Bhaktapur City.
Bhaktapur means the city of the devotees but is also a big handicraft center famous for its pottery, its thanka paintings and its curd (yoghurt). The visit of Durbar Square is unavoidable, because of its strategic location of course but also because of its immense architectural interest.
Bhaktapur is located about 20 km east of Kathmandu and drives around 30 min. It is another Newar city founded in the 9th century. This square is located in the center of the city of Bhaktapur. The Square is one of the most enchanting architectural masterpieces in the Valley, highlighting some of the best medieval arts in Nepal. He is best known for his exquisite works of art in wood, stone, and metal. What's more, like an open museum with an atmosphere dating back century. This square is one of the most enchanting masterpieces in the Valley.
There are many interesting places within the square, some are the Lion's Gate, the Golden Gate, the Palace of Fifty-Five, the Nyatapola Temple (5-story temple) and many more. King Ranjit Malla erected the Golden Gate as the entrance to the main courtyard of the Palace of Fifty-five Windows. The Palace of Fifty-Five Windows was built during the reign of King Yakshya Malla in AD 1427 and was remodeled by King Bhupatindra Malla in the 17thcentury. Bhaktapur's Durbar (Royal) Square was added to the list of World Heritage sites by UNESCO in 1979.
Enhancement Activities:
1. Taste Juju Curd: Bhaktapur had been a city from where the local special curd was always supplied to the royal palace. In this way, the local curd got a name “Juju Dhau”, “Juju” means King, and “Dhau” means curd. We will taste this special curd from one of the local producers.
2. Pottery Experience: One of the most practiced works in this medieval city is “Pottery”. We can see the local people making clay products using wooden stick to turn wooden-wheel, keeping clay on the wheel and giving the shape as they like. This is the technique they had been using to make clay pots since their ancestors. Anybody interested can make his/her dirty by trying to make similar one.
3. Thangka Painting: Thangkas are the paintings on cotton canvas. Normally, the designs those are painted are connected with Buddhism and Hinduism philosophies. We will visit a school where they teach how to make a perfect painting.
3. Cooking Class: You will visit a local house where the family members are aware of your visit. Hence, they prepare the ingredients accordingly for cooking one of the popular Nepalese food items. You will also help the lady in the house for cooking, and once it is prepared you will get chance to tase the Nepalese food that you just cooked.
Drive to Pharping, and check in to Neydo Monastery Hotel.
Just 22kms from Kathmandu (approx. 1 hour by car) near Pharping, in the southwest of the Valley, is a small hotel Neydo Tashi Choeling Buddhist monastery. This is an ideal place to relax and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and an easy getaway for a short break, where we can enjoy meditation, or even study Buddhism or continue a day in the life of the monastics.
The monastery of Neydo is located on purpose near the cave of Asura, where Padmasambhava or Guru Rinpoche, as he is affectionately known, meditated and achieved the highest realization. It is said that in the place there is an energy that really helps the practice of meditation.
Almost 200 monks live and study here and if we wish, we can eat together with them, participate in their practice and get an idea of how their monastic life is.
The guest house of the Neydo Monastery is located in a quiet natural environment, home to many important religious sites of the great siddhas. It has 23 comfortable rooms and offers delicious healthy food made by an excellent chef.
Overnight is at Neydohotel.
Day 06: Pharping / Kathmandu
Early morning, visit to the monastery to attend the daily ritual.
Breakfast.Visit Dakshinkali Temple and Asura Cave.
Dakshinkali Temple,located 22 km outside of Kathmandu in the village of Pharping, is one of the major Hindu temples in Nepal dedicated to the goddess Kali. Animal sacrifices, particularly of cockerels and uncastrated male goats, are the main way that the goddess is worshipped. The temple has also the same religious value as Pashupatinath Temple and Manakamana Temple. The temple has more tourist attractions as it is a popular hiking destination. Mother Dakshinakali is the most popular form of Kali. She is the benevolent mother, who protects her devotees and children from mishaps and misfortunes.
Asura cave is sacred to Guru Rinpoche, located above the village of Pharping, near Kathmandu, Nepal. It is also known as the 'Upper cave of Yangleshö'. On the upper left side of the entrance door is the imprint of a hand in the rock. In the innermost recesses of the Asura Cave is a tunnel that connects this cave to the Yangleshö Cave down below, about half a mile away. It is not a big hole. Wind passes through this passage and you can feel the draft when sitting near it. AlthoughPadmasambhava could traverse freely through solid matter, he used this narrow tunnel to move between Yangleshö Cave and the upper Asura Cave.
Drive back to Kathmandu. Check in to the hotel.
Overnight is at hotel.
Day 07: Kathmandu / Rafting / Bandipur
Breakfast. Drive to Majhimtar(03hrs) for Rafting.
Trishuli raftingis the most popular whitewater tour in Nepal. It is appropriate for all from the first time to experienced rafters. This rafting is a good opportunity to experience the pristine natural beauty, scenic valleys, impressive gorges, unpolluted beaches, exciting rapids, and easier sections.
Trishuli River originates from Gosainkunda, the Himalayan Lake northwest of Kathmandu. According to a legend, Lord Shiva created three springs by piercing his trident into the rocky mountain. Since these three springs are the sources of water for the river it is named after the Trishuli River.
Drive to Bandipur[42 kms / 01hrs and 15 minutes]: One of the most beautiful villages in Nepal, located on top of a hill at an altitude of 1.000m between Chitawan and Pokhara. This prosperous city offers a panorama view of Langtang, Ganesh Himal, Manasulu and the Annapurna Mountain range. Bandipur, a jewel of Newar architecture, stretches along a high ridge above Dumre. More than three quarters of the houses are traditional Newar houses with carved wooden windows and slate roofs. Life in Bandipur seems to be unaffected by modernity. You will see in the streets of farmers in their orchard, women carrying baskets of fodder, children drying corn on wooden stakes and animals in freedom. Bandipur once belonged to the Magar kingdom of Tanahun.
Newar traders settled there after the valley being conquest by Privthi Shah. The town became an important stop on the India-Tibet trade route. Merchants devoted part of their wealth to build temples, paved streets, and tall wooden and brick merchant houses. Once Kathmandu/Pokhara highway opened, this flourishing trade ended. Stroll through the city to discover its magnificent architecture and 18thcentury temples: the Bindebasini Temple, a two-story temple dedicated to Goddess Durga, the Mahalaxmi Temple, and the Khadga Devi Temple that houses a legendary holy sword offered to King Mukunda Sen. The surrounding villages are populated by Gurung and Magar. Gurung are a Tibeto-Burman people who live mainly in the central part of Nepal. Gurung women wear nose rings, called Phuli, and coral necklaces. Many Gurung men have joined the Gurkha regiments of the British Army and their pay is a major contributor to the local economy. The Magar are also of Tibeto-Burman origin in central and western Nepal. They have a reputation as excellent soldiers and are also very present in the Gurkha regiments. They live in two-story houses with walls covered in red clay and a thatched roof. They are very heavily influenced by Hinduism.
Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and the rest of the day is free.
Overnight is at hotel
Day 08: Bandipur / Begnas Lake / Kalabang VDC
Breakfast. In the morning, visitThani Mai Temple
Thani Mai Temple is a small Hindu temple located in the hill near beautiful Bandipur town of Nepal. The temple has a great value from religious as well as cultural point of view. Besides the value of the temple, the temple area also offers great eye-catchy views all around which is really mesmerizing and amazing leading the place as a perfect viewpoint of naturally created beauties. Thani Mai temple hike is only about 30 minutes of walk from main Bandipur town and the trail is not considered so easy, as it is composed of the steep stone path.
Later, drive to Begnas Lake [60km / 2 hours]
Begnas Lake is a freshwater lake in Pokhara, located in the south-east of the valley. This is the third largest lake of Nepal and second largest, after Phewa lake, amongst eight lakes in Pokhara. Water level in the lake fluctuates seasonally due to rain, and utilization for irrigation. The water level is regulated through a dam constructed in 1988 on the western outlet stream, hudiKhola.
Transfer to the Begnas Lake Resort by a boat [30 minutes ride]. Lunch at the resort.
Drive towards Pokhara [10 km / 30 minutes]
Pokhara is a remarkable place of natural beauty. Situated at an altitude of 900m from the sea level and 200km west of Kathmandu, the city is known as a center of adventure. The enchanting town has several beautiful lakes and offers stunning panoramic views of Himalayan peaks. The serenity of lakes and the magnificence of the Himalayas rising behind them create an ambience of peace and magic. Geology of Pokhara got built up almost 12 to 13 thousand years ago because of having huge floods from the bottom of Fishtail Mountain through Seti River as this river is a glacial river origin from the base of fishtail mountain.
Pokhara now is divided almost centrally by this white color limestone river as few limestone caves can be witnessed in various parts of Pokhara because of having layer of depositions of limestone by this river over that period of catastrophic floods. Pokhara is regarded as having one of the highest costs of living index cities of Nepal because of having significant number of influences from the earnings of British Gurkhas Armies as well as tourism industries.
Continue driving towards Kalabang Community Homestay. Check-in.
Kalabang Village Homestay is a perfect place to experience a traditional Gurung lifestyle. This village offers a panoramic view of the Annapurna Mountain and Phewa Lake. The area is ideal for hiking. It also offers the chance to meet local people.
The people in this village are hospitable and warm. You can enjoy a cup of coffee made from the local coffee bean. Guests can experience a meal served from the villagers' garden. They will tell you about their daily life and practices of the region.
Overnight is at hotel.
Day 09: Kalabang VDC / Pokhara City
Early morning sunrise with the panoramic views of the Annapurna range with Machhapuchere, Dhaulagiri and Manaslu.
Breakfast is at homestay.
Activities available;
1. Walking around the mountain village;
2. Visit a small village museum that gives the cultural explanation of the Gurung people;
3. Interaction with the local people, Mother’s Group and cooperative women’s groups.
Visit Shiva Temple
Shiva Statueis one of the major attractions of Pokhara Valley.It is the tallest statue of LordShiva in Pokhara.This statue was built in Mathura of India and then brought here in Nepal and installed. It is located in the southern part of Pokhara at an elevation of 1500 meters from sea level. Another attraction of this statue is Shiva Damaru which is the biggest in Asia.
Descend towards the Pokhara City.
Visit Devi’s Fall, Gupteshwor Cave, and Tibetan Refugee Camp
Devi’s Fall:This is a unique waterfall getting disappeared under ground having very interesting historical background as back in 1960, Swiss couple whose name were Mr. and Mrs. Devi’s happened to be next to waterfalls and decided to swim next to waterfalls but due to sudden flash flood in the river where they were having bath, Mrs. Devis had been swept away inside the George of waterfalls and died there instantly. This incident triggered locals to give name as Devis fall for the memory of Mrs. Devis.
Gupteshwor Cave:This cave is located close to Davis Fall and is the most famous cave of Nepal. It is also considered as the longest Cave (2950 meters). It is said to be discovered in 16th century, later in 1991 the main entrance of the cave was constructed. There are two chambers with several shrines locate throughout. The largest shrine is dedicated to lord Shiva. There is lighting in the cave that has power back-up but still bringing one’s own head torch is recommended.
Tibetan Refugee Camp: Up until 1989 Tibetan exiles were allowed ID cards and economic assistance in Nepal. However, due to a recent Chinese/Nepali trade agreement Nepal has agreed not to recognize Tibetan Refugees. They are not allowed the right to own land, driving, working or claim any state benefits.The four official Tibetan settlement camps in the city of Pokhara is a small world in itself. These refugee camps were built for the thousands of Tibetan refugees that came to settle in Nepal after the Chinese takeover. They sell beautiful handmade jewelers, trinkets, carving and carpets for the visitors to showcase the beauties of Tibet. This is a popular place where tourists come to buy souvenirs.
Later, boat ride at Phewa Lake:The center of attraction in Pokhara is Phewa Lake, the second largest lake in the Kingdom. It is the largest and most enchanting of the three lakes that add to the glow of Pokhara. Here, one can sail or row a rented boat down to the water or visit the island temple in the middle.
Overnight is at hotel.
Day 10: Pokhara / Chitwan
Breakfast. Drive to Chitwan [140kms/ 05 hrs. approx.]Upon arrival, check in at the hotel.
Chitwan National Park today stands as a successful testimony of nature conservation in South Asia. This is the first national park of Nepal established in 1973 to preserve a unique ecosystem significantly valuable to the whole world. The park covering a pristine area of 932 sq. km is situated in the subtropical inner Terai lowlands of southern central part of Nepal. There are more than 43 species of mammals in the park.
The park is especially renowned for the protection of the endangered one-horned rhinoceros, tiger, gharial Crocodile along with many other common species of wild animals. The estimated population of endangered species of animals such as gaur, wild elephant, four horned antelope, striped hyena, pangolin, gangetic dolphin, monitor lizard and python, chital, hog deer, barking deer, sloth, palm civet, wild dog, langur, rhesus monkey, etc.
Lunch is served at the hotel.
The rest of the day is at leisure or visit to the nearby Tharu village.
Evening: Slide presentation, one of our jungle experts will introduce background data and history of the Royal Chitwan National Park as well as some other topics relating to wildlife. Your questions are most welcome.
Dinner & overnight is at hotel.
Day 11: Jungle Activities in Chitwan
Breakfast. In the morning, we will experience Elephant Safari in the jungle.
We will ride an elephant to explore the jungle and wildlife, the one horned rhinoceros, various types of deer, monkeys, wild boar, bison, sloth bears, leopards and if you are lucky the Royal Bengal tiger. Elephant safari is one of the best ways to observe wildlife up close.
Because elephants can get close to other animals without them noticing that there are people in the elephants, you can get up to 1 meter from other animals. During the journey, you are never alone.
The rider sits in front of and next to him; you are always accompanied by professional guides and naturalists. This exciting ride lasts approximately 02 hours.
In the morning, experience the most exciting activity in Chitwan - Jeep Safari.
Enjoy Jeep Safari, an unusual program, which begins as a jeep safari with an experienced driver at the wheel and an expert naturalist who takes you deep into the forests on moving tracks, exploring the mystery and magic of the jungle from comfort from your seat. This exciting activity lasts from 3 hours to 4 hours in search of wild animals such as various types of deer (dear, barking dear, hug dear), monkeys, wild boar, sloth bear, hyena, leopard, and if you are lucky, the royal tiger de Bengal. In addition to wild animals, we visit inside the national park where the naturist will inform you about the forest and its types, trees and their species, different species of birds, etc.
Return to the hotel for a lunch.
In the afternoon, canoe ride on the Rapti River
Begin sailing on a traditional patella boat for approximately 45 minutes, which will take you on a silent journey down the Rapti River to see waterfowl, crocodiles, gharials, and riverbank animals. After a pass or by boat, we will return to the complex. Note: For those who are not interested in walking, there is a provision for the vehicle to drive back to the complex.
Evening:Tharu Stick dance: Farmers of the nearby villages will show some of their traditional skills and dances.
Dinner & overnight is at hotel.
Day 12: Chitwan / Lumbini
Breakfast. Drive to Lumbini [175 km / 06 hrs.approx.]
Lumbini isa Buddhist pilgrimage site in the Rupandehi district of Lumbini province in Nepal. It is the place where, according to Buddhist tradition, Queen Mahamayadevi gave birth to Siddhartha Gautama around 563 BC. Gautama, who, according to Buddhist tradition, attained enlightenment around 528 B.C. C., he became a Buddha and founded Buddhism. Lumbini is one of many pilgrimage magnets that arose in places central to the life of the Buddha.
Lumbini has several older temples, including the Mayadevi Temple, and other new temples, funded by Buddhist organizations from various countries, have been completed or are still under construction. Many monuments, monasteries, museum, and the Lumbini International Research Institute are also located within the holy site. There is also Puskarini, or Sacred Pool, where Buddha's mother took the ritual dip prior to her birth and where she had her first bath. At other sites near Lumbini, according to tradition, earlier Buddhas were born, then attained final Enlightenment, and finally renounced their earthly forms. Lumbini was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.
Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel and check in
In the evening, visit Maya Devi Temple.
Mayadevi Temple: The Maya Devi Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple located in Lumbini, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, very close to the India-Nepal border. It is the main temple of Lumbini, a site traditionally regarded as the birthplace of Gautama Buddha. The temple stands beside a sacred pond (known as Puskarni) and a sacred garden.
Archaeological remains of brick buildings date back from the 3rd century BC. In 2013 a wooden sanctuary from the 6thcentury BC was discovered.
Overnight is at hotel.
Day 13: Day practicing Buddhism
Breakfast. Today, visit monasteries following Theravada y Mahayana Buddhism philosophy.
Indian Monastery, Lumbini
------------- French Monastery, Lumbini
Sri Lankan Monastery
----------------- Korean Temple, Lumbini
German Monastery, Lumbini ----------------- Singaporean Temple, Lumbini
Singaporean Temple, Lumbini -----------------Vietnam Temple, Lumbini
Later, drive back to hotel.Overnight is at hotel.
Day 14: Lumbini / Kurintar
Breakfast. Drive to Kurintar [185 km / 05 hrs.approx.]
Upon arrival, check-in to the hotel.
Rest day is at leisure / village visit to experience country life.
Overnight is at hotel.
Day 15: Kurintar / Manakamana Temple (Cable Car) / Kathmandu
Breakfast. In the morning, visit Manakamana Temple
Manakamana Temple: Manakamana (temple that grants wishes of its devotees') is a Hindu temple dedicated to goddess , an incarnation of Parvati and it is situated in the village of Manakamana in Nepal
Manakamana Cable Car:The cable car has helped in covering the distance to the Temple in just 10 minutes, which would otherwise be a five-hour uphill climb. The ride begins from across the Trishuli River bank (258 meter) and as you ascend the hill the view of surrounding hills and dense forest is mesmerizing. The top station is situated close to the temple in 1302 meter. Cable car covers the distance of 3 Kms in just 10 minutes. Each cabin accommodates 6 passengers.
Drive back to Kathmandu [105 km /03 hrs and a half]. Transfer to the hotel, check-in.
Overnight is at hotel.
Day 16: Depart Kathmandu
Breakfast.
Drive to the airport for flight to your onward destination. Our representative will help you with exit formalities and then bid you farewell.