Nepal is a country blessed with a diverse geography and culture. From the southern plains to the high mountains reaching as high as Mt. Everest at an altitude of 8848.86 meters, Nepal has all the world’s climatic regions and with it, a varied wildlife and vegetation. Besides, there are more than a hundred different ethnic groups, each having its distinct culture and traditions, living in harmony. To give visitors a glimpse of these unique features, we created this trip out of passion, with extensive research and visits.
The 17-day Essence of Nepal: From Himalayas to the plains of Terai begins with a 5-day easy trek to the foothills of Annapurna north of Pokhara. Known for its amazing Himalayan panorama, the trek passes through the traditional villages of the Gurung situated amidst the terraced farmlands. One can experience their warm hospitality, rich culture, and traditions. After the trek, we will explore Pokhara and its surroundings, and continue our beautiful journey towards Bandipur, a vibrant ancient Newari town situated on a hilltop. This artistic traditional town offers a breathtaking view of the low valleys and numerous mountain ranges like Langtang, Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri.
After rejuvenating our bodies with the fresh air of the mountains, we will head to the plains of Terai, where nature, wildlife, and spirituality await us in abundance. In Chitwan, we'll engage in nature activities like a Jeep safari, bird watching, a canoe ride, an Elephant and an Alligator Breeding center visit, and participate in the cultural program of the indigenous Tharu communities. In Lumbini, we will explore the birthplace of Lord Buddha, delve into the history of Buddhism, and its rich heritage. Both of these sites have been listed in UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites for their outstanding historical and natural significance.
Our final part of the trip will be in Kathmandu Valley, a center of historical, cultural, and religious excellence that has been flourishing for millennia. We will visit principal sites like Pashupatinath, Swayambhu, Basantapur Durbar Square, Lalitpur, Bhaktapur, Panauti, etc. Most of these sites are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites because of the rich history, art, and architecture, and immense cultural values to the local communities. One of the major highlights of the Kathmandu Valley is the syncretism of Buddhist and Hindu faith that can be seen in the arts and architecture during the visits, which is quite rare elsewhere. Another highlight of the valley is the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous Newa community.
Our 17-day Essence of Nepal Itinerary is meticulously planned by our team of experts, ensuring safety with an immersive experience. And the best thing is that it can be customized to suit your preferences. Just let us know and we'll help you create your perfect trip itinerary.