Best Nepal Tour Package – Nepal is a land of unparalleled scenic beauty and one of the most diverse geographical regions on earth. It contains an incredible variety of terrain in a relatively small area, ranging from the tropical lowlands of the “Terai” at about 300 ft above sea level to the summit of Mt. Everest at 29,035 ft (8850m)! What adds an even more interesting dimension to Nepal is the fact that its friendly people are from over 130 different ethnic groups!
There are few countries in the world that are as well set up for independent travel as Nepal. Wandering the trekking shops, bakeries, and pizzerias of Thamel and Pokhara, it’s easy to feel that you have somehow landed in a kind of backpacker Disneyland. Out in the countryside lies a quite different Nepal, where traditional mountain life continues at a slower pace, and a million potential adventures glimmer on the mountain horizons. The biggest problem you might face in Nepal is just how to fit everything in, which is one reason why many people return here over and over again.
Best Nepal Tour Package is specially designed to provide you with the very best taste of Nepal within a relatively short period of time while using the helicopter transfers as far as possible in order to minimize your length of stay here while at the same time providing you with the opportunity to cover most of the sights and sounds of this intriguing country. Initially starting the trip with exploring Kathmandu valley’s major attractions, the tour then moves on to the Everest region where we will be staying at the hotel located at the highest altitude in the world. Famously known as Everest View Hotel – Syangboche (3880m), Hotel Everest View epitomizes the adventurous spirit of the Himalayas. It is a perfect place from which to explore the nearby villages and enjoy the beautiful landscape filled with evergreen fir trees, shrubs, and rhododendron forests.
After staying for a night at the Hotel Everest View and taking in the beautiful Himalayan scenery, we will then fly into Astam by helicopter where we will be staying at a family-run Annapurna Eco Village Resort and Lodge. Situated at the foot of the Annapurna, and only an hour’s drive away from Pokhara, the Annapurna Eco Village Resort and Lodge – Astam is a tranquil oasis of peace, calm, and comfort and is the perfect place to soak in the natural surroundings and unwind. Staying for a day or two at the Eco Village, we will have the opportunity to appreciate the way that organic farming, conservation, solar power, and sustainability practices have been woven together while also providing guests with a comfortable and enjoyable stay in this family-run farm.
After staying for 2 nights in Astam we will then drive to Pokhara. Stretched along the shores of Phewa Lake and dotted with colorful bobbing paddle boats, Pokhara in fact is a little slice of tranquility. There are a number of epic things to do in Pokhara, especially for those chasing adrenalin, with white water rafting and some of the best paragliding on earth all available here. From this lakeside town, there are majestic views of 8,000 meter-high snow-capped giants of the Annapurna range, awe-inspiring in their size and stature. On a clear day, they can be seen from everywhere in Pokhara like watchful guardians over the sleepy town. We can actually head to the lakeside early in the morning to breathe in the calm morning air and admire the towering peaks rising amongst the clouds in the distance.
After completing the tour in Pokhara we will fly to Bandipur by Helicopter and stay for a night here. The Newari town of Bandipur is one of central Nepal’s hidden gems. It combines traditional village architecture, epic Himalayan views, lovely countryside walks, local adventure sports, and excellent accommodation. It’s also an ideal place to break up the drive between Pokhara and Kathmandu while getting a relaxing taste of rural Nepal in the process.
After spending a night in Bandipur and exploring this beautiful town we will then fly back to Kathmandu before departing home the following day.
Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, one of the Asian Heritage representatives will receive you at the airport
and will transfer you to the hotel. Rest of the day at leisure or explore on your own.
Welcome dinner in the evening hosted in your honor by the Asian Heritage team
Overnight stay at hotel Dwarikas in Kathmandu.
Meals included: Breakfast and dinner
The third of the medieval city-states in the Kathmandu Valley, Bhaktapur was always described as the best preserved. Tragically, however, the 2015 earthquake caused terrible devastation and loss of life. Nevertheless, only a few temples were destroyed, there is still much to see here and tourism is vital to the community.
Many Nepalis use the old name of Bhadgaon (pronounced bud-gown) or the Newari name Khwopa, which means City of Devotees. The name fits – Bhaktapur has three major squares full of towering temples that comprise some of the finest religious architecture in the country.
Cultural life is also proudly on display. Along narrow alleys, artisans weave cloth and chisel timber, squares are filled with drying pots, and locals gather in courtyards to bathe, collect water, play cards and socialise. To view this tapestry of Nepali life, visitors must pay a town entry fee, which helps fund temple repair and maintenance.
Once a fiercely independent city-state, Patan (pah-tan) is now almost a suburb of Kathmandu, separated only by the murky Bagmati River. Many locals still call the city by its original Sanskrit name of Lalitpur (City of Beauty) or by its Newari name, Yala. Almost everyone who comes to Kathmandu also visits Patan’s spectacular Durbar Sq – even after the 2015 earthquake, this remains the finest collection of temples and palaces in the whole of Nepal.
Another good reason to come here is to take advantage of the shops and restaurants set up to cater to the NGO workers and diplomats who live in the surrounding suburbs. Then there are Patan’s fair-trade shops, selling superior handicrafts at fair prices and channeling tourist dollars to some of the neediest people in Nepal.
The ancient royal palace of Patan faces on to magnificent Durbar Sq. This concentrated mass of temples is perhaps the most visually stunning display of Newari architecture to be seen in Nepal. Temple construction in the square went into overdrive during the Malla period (14th to 18th centuries), particularly during the reign of King Siddhinarsingh Malla (1619–60). It’s well worth at least a half-day trip from Kathmandu.
Reconstruction of temples affected by the 2015 earthquake will continue for several years, so safety fencing and scaffolding is to be expected. However, all restorations are well underway and the Royal Palace housing the museum is open.
Formerly the residence of the Malla kings, the section of the Royal Palace surrounding Keshav Narayan Chowk now houses one of the finest collections of religious art in Asia. The museum is a national treasure and an invaluable introduction to the art, symbolism, and architecture of the valley. You need at least an hour, and preferably two, to do this place justice, and it’s worth taking a break at the Museum Café before diving in for another round.
The collection is displayed in a series of brick and timber rooms, linked by steep and narrow stairways. There are informative labels on each of the hundreds of statues, carvings, and votive objects, allowing you to put a name to many of the deities depicted at temples around the valley.
There are also some interesting displays on the techniques used to create these wonderful objects, including the art of repoussé and the ‘lost wax’ method of casting. The top floor houses some fascinating photos of Patan at the end of the 19th century.
The museum has a shop selling reproductions of some of the works displayed inside. For a sneak preview of the museum’s highlights and the story of its renovation, go to www.asianart.com/patan-museum. Photography is allowed.
The other attractions that you will visit today in Patan include Golden Temple (Kwa Bahal), Mul Chowk, Krishna Mandir, Sundari Chowk, Royal palace, Golden Gate, and Maha Boudha Temple.
If you want to get up close to the mighty Mount Everest but don’t have the time (or the desire) to trek all the way there, this helicopter tour is ideal. You’ll see spectacular views of Nepal’s hills, valleys, villages, and mountains, which can only be had from the seat of a Helicopter.
Hidden on a ridge overlooking the Everest range, Hotel Everest View is a remarkable establishment that blends gracefully with its spectacular surrounding. Situated within the Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park in Nepal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the hotel offers a 360-degree view of the awe-inspiring peaks. With a view of Mt. Everest from every room, visitors can immerse in this mesmerizing scene in luxury.
Opened in 1971, Hotel Everest View has been listed in the Guinness Book of World Records (2004) as the Highest Placed Hotel in the world at 13000ft. Featured in numerous guide books and has received media coverage, the resort has become a destination in its own right.
Hotel Everest View epitomizes the adventurous spirit of the Himalayas. It is a perfect place from which to explore the nearby villages and enjoy the beautiful landscape filled with evergreen fir trees, shrubs, and rhododendron forests. Our dedicated staff will provide you with excellent service and delicious cuisine to make your stay an unforgettable experience.
The helicopter will fly to the Annapurna range for sightseeing and back to Pokhara.
Pokhara:
Pokhara ticks all the right boxes, with spectacular scenery, adventure activities, and accommodation and food choices galore. Whether you’ve returned from a three-week trek or endured a bus trip from hell, Lakeside Pokhara is the perfect place to recharge your batteries.
The scene is a chilled-out version of Kathmandu’s Thamel neighborhood, stretching along the shore of a tranquil lake with bobbing paddle boats. From the lake, and possibly even from your hotel bed, you can enjoy a clear view of the snow-capped mountains, just 20 or so kilometers away.
There’s much more to Pokhara than its laid-back charm. It also boasts a booming adventure-sports industry: it is arguably the best paragliding venue on the globe and is surrounded by white-water rivers. There’s a fascinating museum dedicated to the world-famous Gurkha soldier. And last but not least, it’s the gateway to the world-famous treks in and around the Annapurna range and beyond.
Half-day of Pokhara sightseeing ( Major attractions):
For a glimpse of what Pokhara was like before the traffic, chaos and tourist restaurants besieged the erstwhile village, head out to the old town, north of the bustling Mahendra Pul. The best way to explore is on foot.
From the Nepal Telecom building at Mahendra Pul, head northwest along Tersapati, passing a number of religious shops selling Hindu and Buddhist paraphernalia. At the intersection with Nala Mukh, check out the Newari houses with decorative brickwork and ornately carved wooden windows.
Continue north on Bhairab Tole to reach the small two-tiered Bhimsen Temple, a 200-year-old shrine to the Newari god of trade and commerce, decorated with erotic carvings. The surrounding square is full of shops selling baskets and ceramics.
About 200m further north is a small hill, topped by the ancient Bindhya Basini Temple. Founded in the 17th century, the temple is sacred to Durga, the warlike incarnation of Parvati, worshipped here in the form of a saligram.
Phewa Tal is the travelers’ focal point in Pokhara and is the second largest lake in Nepal. In contrast to the gaudy tourist development of Lakeside, the steep southwestern shore is densely forested and alive with birdlife. The lush Rani Ban, or Queen’s Forest, bestows an emerald hue to the lake, and on a clear day, the Annapurna mountains are perfectly reflected on its mirror surface. You can take to the lake in one of the brightly painted doongas (boats) available for rent at Lakeside. Many people walk or cycle around the lakeshore – the trek up to the World Peace Pagoda affords breathtaking views over the tal to the mountains beyond.
Pokhara’s most famous Hindu temple, the two-tiered pagoda-style Varahi Mandir stands on a small
sland in Phewa Tal, near the former Ratna Mandir (Royal Palace). Founded in the 18th century, the temple is dedicated to Vishnu in his boar incarnation. It’s been extensively renovated over the years and is inhabited by a lot of cooing pigeons. Rowboats to the temple (per person return Rs 100) leave from Varahi Ghat in Lakeside.
Also known as Patale Chhango, this waterfall marks the point where the Pardi Khola stream vanishes underground. When the stream is at full bore after monsoon rains, the sound of the water plunging over the falls is deafening. The falls are about 2km southwest of the airport on the road to Butwal, just before the Tashi Ling Tibetan camp.
According to one of the many local legends, the name is a corruption of David’s Falls, a reference to a Swiss visitor who tumbled into the sinkhole and drowned, taking his girlfriend with him.
Today, you will start off with an early drive to Sarangkot to capture the tranquil and magical view of the city before sunrise and also to view the first rays of sunlight hitting the mountains in the background. Sarangkot offers panoramic views of the Annapurna, Fishtail, Dhaulagiri, and other mountains.
A full day of Pokhara sightseeing ( Major attractions):
The view of the Annapurna Himalaya from Sarangkot (foreigner/Nepali Rs 50/20) is almost a religious experience. From here, you can see a panoramic sweep of Himalayan peaks, from Dhaulagiri (8167m) in the west to the perfect pyramid of Machhapuchhare (6997m), the tent-like peak of Annapurna II (7937m) to Lamjung (6983m) in the east. Most people come here at dawn or dusk, when the sun picks out the peaks, transforming them from a purple pink to a celestial gold. If you feel noisy teenagers are ruining the peace at the viewing tower, try walking further along to the secluded grassy helicopter pad.
The main village is just below the ridge, but a set of steps leads uphill to a dramatic viewpoint, the site of an ancient kot (fort). There’s a ruined fort at Kaskikot (1788m), a one-hour walk west of Sarangkot along the ridge road, with similarly jaw-dropping views.
This expansive museum is devoted to the mountains of Nepal, the mountaineers who climbed them, and the people who call them home. Inside, you can see original gear from many of the first Himalayan ascents, as well as displays on the history, culture, geology, flora, and fauna of the Himalayas.
Once you’ve been inspired by the climbers of the past, head outside where there’s a 21m climbing wall and a 9.5m-high climbable model of Mt Manaslu. A taxi here from Lakeside will cost you around Rs 800 in return.
Located just north of Mahendra Pul, near the KI Singh Bridge, the Gurkha Museum celebrates the achievements of the renowned Gurkha regiments. Accompanied by sound effects, it covers Gurkha history from the 19th-century Indian Uprising, through two World Wars to current-day disputes and peace-keeping missions, with a fascinating display of Gurkhas who have been awarded the Victoria Cross medal.
Balanced on a narrow ridge high above Phewa Tal, the brilliant-white World Peace Pagoda was constructed by Buddhist monks from the Japanese Nipponzan Myohoji organization. There are three paths up to the pagoda and several small cafes once you arrive. Sadly, there have been muggings on the trails in the past. Check the latest situation before you head off.
The roaring Seti River passes right through Pokhara, but you won’t see it unless you go looking. The river has carved a deep, narrow chasm through the middle of town, turning the water milky white in the process. The best place to catch a glimpse of the Seti River is the park just north of Old Pokhara near the Gurkha Museum.
Across the road from Devi’s Falls, this venerated cave contains a huge stalagmite worshipped as a Shiva lingam. The ticket allows you to clamber through a tunnel behind the shrine, emerging in a damp cavern adjacent to the thundering waters of Devi’s Falls.
This small, 200-year-old, two-tiered temple is dedicated to the Newari god of trade and commerce. It’s decorated with erotic carvings, and the surrounding square hosts shops selling baskets and ceramics.
Almost indistinguishable among the hustle and bustle of Prithvi Chowk is this small Tibetan refugee settlement.
You won’t find Adam West or Christian Bale lurking in the dark and spooky Bat Cave, but instead thousands of horseshoe bats, clinging to the ceiling of a damp and slippery chamber and occasionally chirruping into the darkness – claustrophobics beware. Daredevils can continue to the back of the vault and wriggle out through a tiny chute to the surface. Torches are supplied, and guides (Rs 300) can show you the narrow exit tunnel. Ask about tours to other caves in the vicinity.
Near Bat Cave is the underwhelming Mahendra Gufa, the first large cave to be discovered in Pokhara. The first 125m of the cave is lit only to reveal dusty vandalized limestone formations, some revered as Shiva lingams. Beyond the electric lights, there are bats.
tion on the road to Mahendra Pul, this little museum is devoted to the history and culture of the Pokhara Valley, including the mystical shamanic beliefs of the original inhabitants of the valley.
Chitwan:
Most travelers to Nepal think of trekking in the Himalayas, but there’s another entirely different landscape to explore in the south of Nepal—Chitwan and Bardia National Parks. Under the forested canopies of these two national parks, you’ll spot rhinos, tigers, elephants, and a variety of birdlife. Here’s a guide for planning trips to these two regions. Chitwan showcases another side of Nepal, where the landscape and culture are completely different from what you’ll find in the Himalayas. Spending two or three days in Chitwan is a great way to complement your trek, and here are a few of the best things to do during your time there.
In the ‘other Nepal’, down in the humid plains, Chitwan is one of Asia’s best wildlife-viewing spots and the place to don your safari togs and head into the dawn mist in search of rhinos and tigers. There’s plenty to keep you
busy here, from scanning the forest for critters to visiting local Tharu villages, and the brave can even take a guided walk through the jungle, surrounded by the hoots and roars of the forest. If you are lucky, you’ll see gharial, spotted deer, and wild gaurs, plus plenty of exotic birds.
Chitwan National Park:
Chitwan National Park is one of the premier drawcards in Nepal. This World Heritage-listed reserve protects more than 932 sq km of forests, marshland, and grassland containing sizeable animal populations, making it one of the best national parks for viewing wildlife in Asia. You’ll have an excellent chance of spotting one-horned rhinos, deer, monkeys, and some of the more than 500 species of birds. If you’re extremely lucky, you may spot a leopard, wild elephant, or sloth bear – though it’s the once-in-a-lifetime chance to spot a majestic royal Bengal tiger that is the premier attraction. You’ll also have the chance to experience domesticated elephants, although how that interaction takes place is now undergoing a paradigm shift driven by animal rights concerns. The landscape and culture here are totally different from what you may have experienced so far in Kathmandu and around. Nepal’s plains are called the Terai, which refers to the extensive plains in the southern part of Nepal, which are the most northern extension of the great Gangetic plains of the Himalayas. The people here share aspects of both Nepali and North southern culture.
Upon arrival in Chitwan, we will refresh ourselves and start the half-day jungle activities such as:
Taking a jeep safari is one of the most popular ways to see Chitwan National Park. The park has the second largest population of greater one-horned rhinos in the entire world. It’s also home to more than 125 Bengal tigers. Traveling by jeep is one of the safest ways to see the park, however, it does limit you a bit for wildlife spotting as the noise of the jeep can scare away animals.
Today is sure to be memorable, as it’s a full day of safari activities in the Chitwan National Park, and you’re guaranteed to see some spectacular wildlife. All wildlife activities are escorted by an experienced naturalist who will tell you everything you want to know about the park and its flora and fauna. Wildlife that you can see includes the greater one-horned rhinoceros, spotted deer, hog deer, sambar deer, barking deer, gharial crocodiles, and a wide variety of birdlife. With a bit of luck, you may even glimpse a leopard, sloth bear, or Royal Bengal, tiger.
The most adventurous way to see Chitwan National Park is by walking. Two guides are required for those entering the park, so it’s best to hire a knowledgeable guide who speaks English and knows facts about the animals. You also want someone who can walk you through all of the safety procedures prior to setting foot inside the park.
Chitwan is home to more than 6% of the world’s bird species which makes it an incredible place to go bird watching. From September to November and February to April, migratory birds can be seen in the park in addition to the birds that reside there.
20,000 Lakes is the name of the buffer zone surrounding Chitwan National Park. The buffer zone does not require the park entrance fee, so it is a good option for those on a really tight budget. That being said, you are less likely to see wild animals there. I’ve been told it’s very popular for bird watching and for spotting gharial crocodiles. Our guide showed us footage of a Bengal tiger crossing the road, so it’s not impossible to spot a tiger there.
The Tharu Cultural Dance takes place every evening in Sauraha. It is a bit touristy, but it’s cool to see the different stick dances that the Tharu people perform throughout the year at festivals.
It’s easy to just go to nearby villages by yourself and experience the culture. We played with kids and stopped for a local lunch. We got to interact with people in an authentic way. The village tour is famous for close and personal observation of the Tharu culture. During tours, you can experience the uniquely placed culture of the Tharu people and relish what their culture is like in the Tharu Village Museum in the heart of Sauraha Bachhauli. For centuries, the Tharu have lived very closed to this protected area and hence their tradition reflects their intimate relationship with the natural world. Visit the Tharu village and share their world with them as you reach out to touch another culture.
You can go canoeing down the rivers that run through the park. This can take between 30-45 minutes. It is an adventure as you are in a small hand-carved wooden canoe. This is particularly good for bird watching and crocodile sightings making it all the more nerve-racking.
The Vulture Restaurant might not be on everyone’s to-see list, but it’s an interesting project. Five different species of vulture found in Chitwan are endangered after a 99% population decrease in 20 years! A drug used in cattle is the cause since vultures eat the cows after they die. The Vulture Restaurant acts as a safe place for vultures to get uncontaminated meat. Sick and old cows are sold to the restaurant where they live out the rest of their lives until they die of natural causes. They are then fed to the vultures to help with repopulation efforts.
Sunset point is a beautiful spot just outside the main area of Sauraha. It overlooks the river where you can sometimes see animals grazing and coming for a drink or swim in the evening. There are a handful of cute restaurants along the water where you can have dinner and a drink and enjoy the sunset.
As stated above, Tharu is the major ethnic group in the area. Nepal is home to over 130 different ethnic groups and Chitwan is a great place to learn about this one. You can visit the Tharu museum to see traditional Tharu dress, what a Tharu home looks like, and more.
After breakfast, we will have a leisurely flight back to Kathmandu by Helicopter.
Approximately 3 hours before the departure of your flight, you will be transferred to Kathmandu international airport where we guide you to the check-in hall. From here we hope you had an amazing journey through our country, Nepal. And we hope to see you again.
Note: This itinerary is specially created for you. This itinerary can be adjusted in all aspects in order to meet your specific requirements. Please let us know what suits you best and we will be very pleased to provide you with a complete tailormade holiday package.
-: Please note: Tipping (guides/driver) is not included in the price. Guest can always decide if they would like to tip for good services to guides, porters, and drivers at the end of the trip. However, in Nepal, it is a custom of good faith to tip guides/drivers when they have provided a good service.
Hotel List:
“Services was very good and quick. Staffs and guides were polite and friendly. Overall nice trek company, I will choose again.”
