The Nepal Highlights Tour consists of 13 days, during which you will visit some of the most historically significant sites in Nepal. On this trip, you will have the opportunity to experience Nepal’s cultural heritage, diversity and natural beauty, as well as its Buddhist, Hindu and Animistic traditions. You will visit five major areas of Nepal: Kathmandu, Pokhara, Bandipur, Chitwan and Lumbini. Each place has its own distinct tradition, architecture, local life (people), and natural beauty – peaceful valleys, dense rainforest, and beautiful Himalayan mountains.
You will begin your adventure by exploring some of the many UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu. You will see the ancient palaces, temples, and courtyards that shed light on the country’s royal heritage and spiritual traditions. In Pokhara, you will be captivated by the breathtaking mountain views, peaceful lakes, and the unique charm of the city. From there, your journey continues to Bandipur, a town that is known for its beautiful preserved Newari culture, and breathtaking views of the Himalaya Mountains from the top of this hill town.
During your adventure in Nepal, you will visit Chitwan National Park, the first-ever designated National Park in Nepal. Chitwan offers visitors an exhilarating experience by providing various types of jungle-themed activities where people can view endangered animal species, including the one-horned rhino, Deer, Crocodile, as well as numerous other bird species.
The centre piece of the experience is located at Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, where visitors will discover an area filled with numerous peaceful monasteries and sacred sites that provide a sense of deep-seated tranquillity.
Visitors will also have the chance to experience Nepal’s warm and welcoming hospitality as exemplified by the philosophy of “Atithi Devo Bhava,” which translates into “the guest is God.” You can come with us on any of our scheduled dates or arrange a private tour any time you wish. We also offer upgraded accommodations that improve your comfort level while exploring this amazing country!
Highlights of the tour:
Please note:
Welcome! To Kathmandu, Nepal. You will be welcomed by an Asian Heritage Travel representative with a nameplate upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, and you will then be taken to your hotel located within the busy tourist district known as Thamel in Kathmandu. You will see some of the highlights of the city while traveling to the hotel, including Pashupatinath Temple, Narayanhiti Royal Palace Museum, and the peaceful Garden of Dreams. Once you arrive at your hotel, a representative will meet you to discuss your itinerary and answer any questions you might have about it. After you check into your hotel, the rest of the day is yours to explore the busy streets, cafés, and shops of Thamel or relax at your hotel.
Includes: Private transport and an overnight accommodation at Yatri Suites and Spa or a similar hotel in Kathmandu.
Start your sightseeing excursion by meeting your guide and climbing into your private vehicle. Your first stop will be Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you will walk among centuries-old royal palaces, intricate carvings on countless temples, and traditional courtyard-style buildings indicative of the venerable history of ancient Kathmandu.
Your next destination on your journey is Swayambhunath, commonly referred to as the Monkey Temple. Swayambhunath is a sacred stupa located atop a hill that contains both Buddhist and Hindu cultural influences, and provides fabulous views of the Kathmandu Valley and the distant peaks of the Himalayas.
The next stop on your tour is Pashupatinath Temple, one of the premier Hindu pilgrimage destinations in Southeast Asia. Pashupatinath Temple is built on the banks of the Bagmati River, where you will get a glimpse of the open-air cremation ceremonies and experience the spiritual practices surrounding the temple complex.
The last stop of the day is the incredible Boudhanath Stupa (another UNESCO World Heritage Site), which is one of the largest stupas in the world. The stupa dates back to approximately 600 A.D. and represents the center of Tibetan Buddhist culture, surrounded by local life, monasteries, and prayer wheels.
After an amazing day of cultural experiences, you will head back to your accommodation to rest and relax.
Includes: Breakfast, Private Transport, English-speaking Tour guide, and an overnight accommodation at Yatri Suites and Spa or a similar hotel in Kathmandu.
Today’s journey takes you just outside Kathmandu to explore two of the valley’s most historic and culturally vibrant cities: Patan and Bhaktapur. The overall historical and cultural history of this valley includes many UNESCO World Heritage Sites. As you begin your visit to Patan, you will have the opportunity to see several of these UNESCO World Heritage Sites, especially the Krishna Temple and Patan Durbar Square, which feature beautiful examples of Newari craftsmanship. After visiting the Krishna Temple and Patan Durbar Square, you will visit the Patan Museum for an in-depth look at the art, culture and royal history of the Malla dynasty, as well as see the Golden Temple, a sacred place for Hindus and Buddhists and the Banglamukhi Temple, which is a well-known site for pilgrims.
Your next stop will be Bhaktapur, a living museum where you can see beautifully preserved architecture and experience the traditional way of life. Additionally, the intricate wood carvings add to the rich cultural experience of Bhaktapur. Stroll through Bhaktapur Durbar Square, which is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll see ancient palaces, stone temples and artisan workshops on the cobblestone streets of this historic centre. Be sure to visit the Nyatapola Temple, which is one of the highest and most magnificent pagoda-style temples in Nepal, towering over Taumadhi Square.
After a day filled with cultural discovery, you will return to Kathmandu, check into your hotel and relax for another enjoyable evening.
Includes: Breakfast, Private Transport, English-speaking Tour guide, and an overnight accommodation at Yatri Suites and Spa or a similar hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 4 of your 13-Day Nepal Highlights Tour travels across the countryside from Kathmandu to the picturesque hilltop village of Bandipur. This trip covers around 150 kilometers, allowing you to transition from the hustle and bustle of a city to the serenity of the country. The scenery will include terraced fields, lush green hills, and the flowing Trishuli River as you make your way there.
When you arrive in Bandipur, you will take a guided tour of Bandipur, seeing its intact streets, traditional Newari houses, and peaceful surroundings. This village has wonderful mountain views, a timeless quality, and a rich cultural history. Once you have completed your tour of Bandipur, you can check into your hotel and take time to relax in the tranquil atmosphere of Bandipur.
Includes: Breakfast, private transport, and an overnight accommodation at Bandipur Mountain Resort or a similar hotel in Bandipur.
Continuing your journey, you will head toward Chitwan, which is about 45 to 50 kilometers southwest of Bandipur. Along the way, small shops and mini-markets add a lively, local charm. Gradually, the landscape changes as the forest grows denser, showing that you are getting close to the subtropical lowlands of Chitwan. Once you arrive, check into the hotel. Take some time to relax. Late in the afternoon, walk around the local market and the surrounding streets to see the villagers’ lifestyle. In the evening, enjoy the Tharu cultural program, which includes traditional dances and music from the indigenous Tharu tribe. After the show, return to the hotel and rest.
Includes: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, private transport, a guided sightseeing tour in English, and an overnight accommodation at Hotel Rainforest or a similar hotel in Chitwan.
On the sixth day of your 13-Day Nepal Highlights Tour, start an exciting jungle safari by Jeep. Go into the community forest to look for wildlife, such as the one-horned rhino, deer, wild boar, leopards, and more. Crossing the Rapti River takes you into the heart of Chitwan National Park, where, if you’re lucky, you may see the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger hidden among the tall grasses. Watch for wild elephants and other interesting species along the way. The day’s safari will conclude with a delectable lunch back at the hotel.
You will see what a Tharu Village is like through the eyes of a local by taking a guided tour in the afternoon, gaining first-hand insight into all aspects of the local culture that these indigenous people have preserved for centuries. After this cultural experience, you will get back out onto the Rapti River by growing your own paddle as you canoe down and watch Marsh Mugger and Gharial Crocodile sunbathing along the riverbank. Following your adventurous cultural experience, you will return to the hotel to unwind other working hard!
Includes: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, private transport, a guided sightseeing tour in English, and an overnight accommodation at Hotel Rainforest or a similar hotel in Chitwan.
You will begin traveling from Chitwan to Lumbini, the holy site where Lord Buddha was born, right after breakfast. The car ride will take about 4 to 5 hours, based on how good or bad the road conditions are. Your trip will take you through one of the most beautiful areas of Nepal.
As you leave behind the lush green forests that are filled with wildlife, the road will take you to many small rural villages, terraces, and farmland, where you will be able to see how the Tharu and other local people live every day. Once you arrive in Lumbini, you will be surrounded by a peaceful environment, which is travelling and pilgrimage for Buddhists all over the world.
Includes: Breakfast, private transport, and an overnight accommodation at Sakya Guest House or a similar hotel in Lumbini.
Day 8 of the 13-Day Nepal Highlights Tour will consist of a day of sightseeing around the birthplace of Lord Buddha. You will see the Sacred Garden with Ashoka Pillar, Pond Pushkarini, Maya Devi Temple & Meditation Site, as well as a Monastery for Monks. After this, you’ll have time to tour some of the Monasteries located in the Monastery Zone prior to returning to your hotel.
Includes: Breakfast, private transport, and an overnight accommodation at Sakya Guest House or a similar hotel in Lumbini.
You will make your way to Pokhara, which is located to the Northeast of Lumbini and is a distance of about 210 k.m.’s. Once you have arrived at your destination, you can check into your hotel and rest for some time from the long journey. In the afternoon, you will have the chance to visit the scenic lakeside streets and then go for a leisurely walk along the beautiful Phewa Lake. Here, you will have the opportunity to relax while enjoying the picturesque mountains surrounding Pokhara, one of the most stunning destinations in Nepal.
Includes: Breakfast, private transport, and an overnight accommodation at Hotel Crystal Palace or a similar hotel in Pokhara.
The experience begins with an early morning start and a drive to Sarangkot to experience the beauty of sunrise over Pokhara and the first rays of sunlight reflecting off the majestic Himalaya mountain range. Enjoy the panoramic views of the Annapurna range, Machapuchhre (Fishtail), Dhaulagiri, and the surrounding mountain ranges from this spectacular vantage point.
Once you have taken in the spectacular views, you will then return to your hotel in Pokhara for your breakfast. Your day will then continue with a sightseeing tour where you will visit David Falls, Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, International Mountain Museum, and the final stop of the day will be World Peace Stupa to take in the breathtaking views of Phewa Lake and the surrounding mountain ranges.
Includes: Breakfast, private transport, and an overnight accommodation at Hotel Crystal Palace or a similar hotel in Pokhara.
After having breakfast, you’ll take a scenic road trip from Pokhara to Kathmandu, enjoying all of the beautiful scenery during the trip. Upon arrival, our representative will transfer you to your hotel for relaxation after the long trip.
That evening, you will attend a free time activity, where you can wander around Thamel’s busy streets, full of shops, restaurants, and local culture. This is a great time to experience Kathmandu’s bustling energy before concluding your tour.
Includes: Breakfast, Private Transport, English-speaking Tour guide, and an overnight accommodation at Yatri Suites and Spa or a similar hotel in Kathmandu.
On this day, you are free to enjoy time spent in Kathmandu either at the pace you would like (relaxing at your hotel, going shopping for souvenirs for friends and family) or visiting the attractions of Kathmandu.
If you want to fill in your day with fun activities, you can choose from these optional activities:
This is the end of your 13 Day Highlight trip in Nepal, and it should provide some of the most remarkable experiences you will have enjoyed in Nepal and include many wonderful memories of culture, landscape, and heritage.
Includes: Breakfast, Private Transport, English-speaking Tour guide, and an overnight accommodation at Yatri Suites and Spa or a similar hotel in Kathmandu.
Today is the last day of your journey. Three hours before your scheduled departure back to your home or another location, our representative will pick you up in a private vehicle after breakfast and drop you off at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport.
We hope you travel safely and look forward to seeing you again soon.
Includes: Breakfast and private Transport.
Getting to Nepal as an international visitor is easy with the availability of an easy-to-use Visa on Arrival service at Tribhuvan International Airport and almost all the land border crossings into Nepal. Upon arrival at the airport, you will complete the visa form, submit the necessary documents, pay the applicable visa fee online, and then you will be given your visa within a very short time.
With several different types of Nepali visas available for various duration periods, visitors have the choice of whether they want to stay for a few days or months; however, some nationalities must obtain their visa in advance of travelling, so you must check the current visa requirements.
Learn more about visa guidelines and requirements: Tourist Visa Information
Nepal offers a wide variety of accommodation to meet the varying requirements of travelers at every budget level and personal comfort preferences.
Luxury Accommodation
Enjoy the luxury and the comfort of a highly rated hotel, and are looking for a high-end experience. You will find many luxury hotels in Nepal with an array of modern conveniences, such as spa treatments, fine dining, beautiful locations, breathtaking views of the Himalayas, and individual attention from the staff. These types of hotels are perfect for people who want to relax, unwind, and experience luxurious facilities while traveling throughout Nepal.
Budget Accommodation
Travelers who want to experience Nepal without breaking the bank will be happy to know that there are also many inexpensive accommodation options, including guesthouses, boutique lodges, and homestays, which are all clean, friendly, and very good value. Budget accommodation allows a traveler to stay within their budget while experiencing the generosity of local hospitality.
We ensure that your accommodation matches your preference, whether you seek luxury or convenience.
Explore available accommodation categories: Accommodations in Nepal.
Nepal has a lot to offer with its incredible natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality. Travelling can also come with risks, which is why anyone visiting Nepal needs to consider purchasing travel insurance, particularly those involved in adventure activities or trekking, as well as those who will be travelling to remote areas of Nepal. A well-rounded insurance policy can provide peace of mind through protection against the following:
Many trekking routes in Nepal are over 3000 meters (9842 ft); therefore, your policy should specifically state that high altitude travel is part of your Insurance plan, as well as the option to be evacuated in the event of an emergency. Choosing the right policy will help you receive the best possible care in your time of need.
Find out more about travel insurance for Nepal: Travel Insurance in Nepal
For hikers traveling to the Nepalese Himalayas, it’s essential to have the correct trekking equipment. Depending on what elevation you’re at, the weather might change drastically, so it’s crucial to use and carry the proper clothing and equipment in order to enjoy a safe and comfortable trip.
If you don’t want to travel with your own equipment, there are plenty of places in Nepal where you can rent or purchase what you need (particularly in Thamel, Kathmandu’s main shopping district). There are also locations within the city where you can find stores that offer a variety of high-quality trekking apparel and equipment at very reasonable prices.
See the complete trekking gear guide: Trekking Gear
