Nepal Cultural, Scenic & Wildlife Journey

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 ft), where a representative from Jagadamba Holidays Nepal will warmly welcome you with traditional marigold garlands and assist with your transfer to your hotel in Thamel. After check-in, take time to relax and recover from your journey or explore the vibrant streets of Kathmandu at your own pace.

As the cultural and historical heart of Nepal, Kathmandu offers a fascinating blend of ancient temples, Buddhist stupas, traditional architecture, lively markets and everyday local life. Depending on your arrival time, you may enjoy authentic Nepali cuisine, visit nearby attractions, browse the colourful streets of Thamel, or simply unwind at the hotel.

Accommodation: Kathmandu Guest House or a similar-category hotel in Thamel, Kathmandu, in a deluxe twin-sharing room with a private bathroom. Breakfast is included.

Optional Evening Activities in Kathmandu – Depending on Your Arrival Time

Depending on your arrival time in Nepal, you may choose one of the following optional evening experiences to begin discovering Kathmandu:

Option 1: Pashupatinath Temple & Evening Aarti

Visit the sacred Pashupatinath Temple and experience the atmospheric evening Pashupati Aarti along the Bagmati River. The ceremony features traditional music, devotional rituals and illuminated oil lamps, offering a fascinating introduction to Nepal's living Hindu traditions.

Option 2: Rickshaw or Walking Tour to Kathmandu Durbar Square

Enjoy a short rickshaw ride or walking tour through the historic streets of Kathmandu to Kathmandu Durbar Square (Basantapur). Explore the surrounding courtyards, temples and traditional architecture before returning on foot through the lively local streets. Along the way, experience Asan Bazaar, one of Kathmandu's oldest and busiest traditional markets, filled with spices, fresh produce, textiles, handicrafts and everyday local life.

Both options are optional and not included in the standard itinerary. Your choice can be made according to your arrival time, interests and energy level.

After breakfast, begin your Kathmandu sightseeing tour with a day dedicated to the city’s remarkable heritage, architecture and religious traditions. The route covers Swayambhunath, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Boudhanath and Pashupatinath, giving you four different perspectives on the cultural character of Kathmandu Valley.

Swayambhunath Stupa

Begin at Swayambhunath, a hilltop Buddhist sanctuary overlooking much of Kathmandu. A staircase leads up through a peaceful wooded area to the main stupa, where you will see prayer wheels, small shrines, monasteries and colourful prayer flags. Spend some time walking around the complex and enjoying the elevated views of the city before continuing to the historic centre.

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Next, head into the old city to explore Kathmandu Durbar Square, a historic collection of palace courtyards, temples and traditional Newari buildings. The square offers an insight into the craftsmanship and history of the former Kathmandu royal court, with intricately carved windows, wooden details and centuries-old religious monuments. Walking through the surrounding lanes also reveals the living culture of the old city, where heritage buildings stand alongside busy local markets and neighbourhoods.

Boudhanath Stupa

Continue to Boudhanath, where a huge white stupa forms the centre of one of Kathmandu’s most distinctive Buddhist neighbourhoods. Walk around the circular courtyard and watch pilgrims follow the traditional clockwise route while turning prayer wheels and offering prayers. Nearby monasteries, Tibetan Buddhist shops and cafés add to the atmosphere, making Boudhanath an ideal place to experience the living Buddhist culture of Kathmandu.

Pashupatinath Temple

The final stop is Pashupatinath, located beside the Bagmati River in the eastern part of Kathmandu. The area is centred around the Shiva temple and includes numerous smaller shrines, courtyards, stone sculptures and riverside ghats. As you explore the surrounding areas, you can observe traditional Hindu practices and the daily activities of pilgrims along the river. The main temple is open only to Hindu devotees, while visitors of other faiths can view the important religious complex from the permitted surrounding areas.

After completing the four-site Kathmandu cultural tour, return to your hotel. The rest of the evening is free to relax or explore Kathmandu independently.

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before meeting your private driver and beginning the scenic journey from Kathmandu to Gorkha and onward to Bandipur. The total driving distance is approximately 196 km — around 144 km from Kathmandu to Gorkha and 52 km from Gorkha to Bandipur — with a total travel time of approximately 6–7 hours, depending on road and traffic conditions.

Continue to Gorkha, a historic hill town with an important place in Nepal's history. Gorkha is the ancestral home of the Shah dynasty and is closely associated with King Prithvi Narayan Shah, who began the 18th-century campaign to unite the many small kingdoms of the region, laying the foundations of modern Nepal.

Gorkha Durbar – Perched on a forested ridge above Gorkha Bazaar, the historic Gorkha Durbar is an impressive palace, temple and fortress complex offering beautiful views across the surrounding hills and valleys. The site includes the former royal palace, traditional courtyards, temples and shrines that reflect the religious, architectural and political heritage of the former Gorkha Kingdom.

The complex is particularly significant for its association with King Prithvi Narayan Shah, who was born in Gorkha and ruled from this hilltop palace before embarking on his unification campaign. The Gorakhnath Temple, dedicated to the Hindu yogi Gorakhnath, is an important shrine within the complex and continues to attract pilgrims. Weather permitting, the elevated location also provides scenic views of the surrounding hills and Himalayan foothills.

After exploring Gorkha Durbar, continue your scenic drive to Bandipur, a beautifully preserved hilltop town known for its elegant Newari architecture, traditional houses, quiet stone-paved streets and spectacular views of the surrounding hills and Himalayan foothills. Once an important trading centre along the historic route between India and Tibet, Bandipur has retained much of its traditional character and offers an authentic glimpse into Nepal's historic hill-town culture.

Upon arrival, check in at Bandipur Village Inn and take some time to relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Later, explore Bandipur Bazaar on foot, where traditional Newari houses, historic temples, small shops and local courtyards line the pedestrian-friendly streets. Continue to Tundikhel, a spacious hilltop viewpoint offering sweeping views across the surrounding valleys and Himalayan ranges, weather permitting. As the evening approaches, enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of Bandipur and experience the slower pace of life in one of Nepal's most charming heritage towns.

Accommodation: Bandipur Village Inn or a similar-category hotel in Bandipur, in a deluxe twin-sharing room with a private bathroom. Breakfast is included.

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before spending the morning exploring Bandipur, one of Nepal’s best-preserved hill towns. Perched on a scenic ridge, Bandipur is renowned for its elegant Newari architecture, traditional houses, stone-paved streets and peaceful atmosphere, with beautiful views of the surrounding hills and Himalayan foothills.

Begin your exploration around Bandipur Bazaar, the historic heart of the town. Walk through its pedestrian-friendly streets lined with traditional Newari buildings, small shops, historic temples and local courtyards. Take time to appreciate the town’s unique cultural character and traditional architecture, which reflects Bandipur’s former importance as a trading centre along the historic route between India and Tibet.

Continue to Tundikhel, a spacious hilltop area offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains, weather permitting. After exploring Bandipur, enjoy lunch before continuing your journey towards Pokhara.

In the afternoon, drive by private car to Pokhara, approximately 72 km from Bandipur, with a driving time of around 2–3 hours, depending on road and traffic conditions. Upon arrival, check in at Fishtail Lodge and take some time to relax.

Later, enjoy a peaceful boating experience on Phewa Lake, one of Pokhara’s most iconic attractions. Take a traditional boat across the lake to Tal Barahi Temple, a small two-storey pagoda-style Hindu temple situated on an island in the middle of Phewa Lake. After visiting the temple, enjoy the boat ride back while taking in the surrounding hills and mountain scenery, weather permitting.

In the evening, spend some leisurely time around Lakeside, Pokhara’s lively lakeshore area. Enjoy a relaxed walk along the lake, browse local shops, or sit at one of the cafés and restaurants while taking in the pleasant atmosphere and views of Phewa Lake.

Accommodation: Fishtail Lodge, in a deluxe twin-sharing room with a private bathroom. Breakfast is included.

Early in the morning, drive to Sarangkot, one of Pokhara’s most popular mountain viewpoints, to experience the sunrise over the Himalayas. Located on a scenic hilltop above Pokhara Valley, Sarangkot provides an excellent vantage point for watching the first light appear over the surrounding mountains. Weather permitting, enjoy panoramic views of the Annapurna range, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Dhaulagiri and other Himalayan peaks. Take some time to enjoy the peaceful morning atmosphere and spectacular mountain scenery before beginning the return journey to Pokhara.

On the way back, visit Bindhyabasini Temple, one of Pokhara’s oldest and most important Hindu temples. Situated on a hilltop, the temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhagwati and offers beautiful views across Pokhara Valley. Continue towards Seti Gorge, where the Seti River has carved a dramatic, narrow gorge through the city, revealing the powerful natural forces that have shaped the landscape. After sightseeing, return to Fishtail Lodge for breakfast and some time to relax.

Later, continue exploring Pokhara’s scenic and cultural attractions. Visit Pumdikot, a hilltop viewpoint overlooking Pokhara Valley and Phewa Lake, with impressive views towards the Annapurna range and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), weather permitting. The large Lord Shiva statue at Pumdikot is one of the prominent landmarks of the area. Continue to the World Peace Pagoda, also known as the Shanti Stupa, situated on a hill overlooking Phewa Lake. From this peaceful hilltop location, enjoy panoramic views of the lake, Pokhara Valley and surrounding Himalayan ranges, weather permitting.

Continue to Davis Falls, one of Pokhara’s best-known natural attractions, where water from Phewa Lake disappears into an underground channel. Nearby, visit Gupteshwor Cave, a sacred limestone cave associated with Hindu traditions and located close to the falls. In the late afternoon or evening, return towards Phewa Lake and Lakeside and enjoy some free time at your own pace. Take a leisurely walk along the lakeshore, explore local shops and cafés, or simply relax and enjoy the pleasant atmosphere of Pokhara.

Accommodation: Fishtail Lodge, in a deluxe twin-sharing room with a private bathroom. Breakfast is included.

After breakfast, drive from Pokhara to Chitwan, travelling from the Himalayan foothills towards the warmer Inner Terai landscapes. The journey of approximately 150 km takes around 5–6 hours, depending on road and traffic conditions, and offers changing scenery of river valleys, rural settlements, farmland and forested hills. At approximately 190 m above sea level, Chitwan provides a striking contrast to the mountain landscapes experienced earlier in the journey. The region is home to Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984 and one of Nepal’s most important protected areas for wildlife and natural habitats.

Upon arrival in Chitwan, check in at Banbas Resort and enjoy lunch. After settling in, a nature guide will meet you at the resort to confirm the planned Chitwan activities and provide your safari activities time card, helping you understand the schedule for the wildlife and nature experiences ahead. Later, visit a local monastery and the Tharu Museum. The monastery offers a peaceful setting and an introduction to Buddhist traditions, while the museum presents traditional tools, clothing, jewellery, household items and other exhibits connected with the history and culture of the indigenous Tharu people of the Terai.

In the evening, attend a traditional Tharu Cultural Dance performance, featuring local music, drums, stick dances, singing and community traditions. The performance may take place at a village cultural centre or at the resort, depending on the local programme. It offers an engaging introduction to the living cultural heritage of the Tharu community and provides an opportunity to experience the distinctive traditions of the people who have long called the Chitwan region home.

After the cultural programme, return to Banbas Resort and enjoy a relaxing evening in the peaceful surroundings of Chitwan. Your stay is designed to introduce you to both the natural environment and cultural heritage of Chitwan, preparing you for the jungle and wildlife experiences planned for the following day. Accommodation: Banbas Resort, in a deluxe twin-sharing room with a private bathroom. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included.

After breakfast, begin your day with a peaceful canoe ride on the Rapti River, one of the major waterways flowing through the Chitwan region. The quiet journey provides an excellent opportunity to observe the park's rich riverine wildlife, including marsh crocodiles, gharials, kingfishers, herons and other waterbirds. Depending on the season and natural conditions, you may also spot rhinoceros and deer near the riverbanks.

Continue to the Elephant Breeding Centre in Sauraha, where you can observe elephants of different ages, including young calves, and learn about their biology, breeding and conservation. The visit provides an insight into elephant management and the wider importance of wildlife conservation in the Terai region of Nepal.

The day's main adventure is a half-day jeep safari inside Chitwan National Park. Drive through a diverse landscape of sal forests, open grasslands, riverine habitats and oxbow lakes, while your experienced naturalist and safari guide searches for animal tracks, signs and movement. Chitwan is renowned for its greater one-horned rhinoceros, Bengal tiger, wild elephant, sloth bear, leopard, gaur, deer and wild boar, as well as its impressive variety of resident and migratory birds. Wildlife sightings depend entirely on natural conditions and animal movements, so encounters cannot be guaranteed.

Later, explore a nearby Tharu village, where you can see traditional mud-and-thatch houses, local agricultural practices and the everyday lifestyle of the Tharu people. Your guide will introduce you to the distinctive Tharu culture and traditions, as well as the community's long-standing relationship with the forests, rivers and fertile lands surrounding Chitwan National Park. This village experience provides a valuable cultural complement to the day's wildlife activities.

In the evening, enjoy a relaxing sunset experience near the Rapti River or around the surrounding community forest, depending on local conditions. As the sun sets over the Terai landscape, take some time to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere before returning to Banbas Resort for dinner and a relaxing evening. Accommodation: Banbas Resort, deluxe twin-sharing room with private bathroom. Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Begin the morning with a peaceful bird-watching experience in Chitwan before departure. The Chitwan region is home to more than 500 recorded bird species, making it a rewarding destination for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers. Accompanied by a naturalist or local guide, explore the riverbanks and surrounding forest areas while looking for colourful species such as Indian rollers, bee-eaters, kingfishers and woodpeckers. Depending on the season and natural conditions, you may also have the opportunity to spot some of Chitwan's more specialised bird species.

After breakfast, begin the scenic drive from Chitwan to Kathmandu, covering approximately 165 km and taking around 6–7 hours by road, depending on road and traffic conditions. Kathmandu is situated at approximately 1,400 m (4,593 ft) above sea level. The journey provides another opportunity to experience the changing landscapes of central Nepal, passing through green hills, rivers, agricultural fields, traditional villages and lively roadside settlements. Alternatively, a domestic flight from Bharatpur Airport to Kathmandu can be arranged, subject to the flight schedule and availability.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to Kathmandu Guest House and enjoy a relaxed afternoon. After exploring Nepal's cultural heritage, Himalayan landscapes and wildlife during the journey, this free time allows you to rest, repack your luggage or explore Thamel at your own pace. You can browse local shops for traditional handicrafts, Nepalese souvenirs, clothing, trekking equipment and other memorable gifts.

In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with traditional Nepali music and cultural performances, bringing together the cultural experiences of your Nepal journey in a relaxed and memorable final evening in Kathmandu. Overnight at Kathmandu Guest House, with bed and breakfast included.

Enjoy breakfast at Kathmandu Guest House and make the most of your final morning in Nepal. The morning and early afternoon are free for personal time, last-minute shopping in Thamel, or a relaxed walk through the surrounding streets before your departure.

At the appropriate time, your Jagadamba Holidays representative will arrange your private airport transfer from the hotel to Tribhuvan International Airport. You will generally leave the hotel around 4 hours before your scheduled international flight, allowing you to reach the airport approximately 3.5 hours before departure. The exact departure time will be confirmed according to your flight schedule, traffic conditions and recommended airport reporting time.

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, complete the check-in and departure formalities for your international flight. Your Nepal journey with Jagadamba Holidays then comes to an end as you depart for your onward destination, taking home lasting memories of Nepal's culture, landscapes, wildlife and warm hospitality.