The Himalayan Abode

This tour covers all the major sights, including the Valley of Kathmandu, home to the ancient capitals of Nepal and some stunning temples, the national park of Chitwan with its one-horned rhino, the tranquil valley of Pokhara with breathtaking views of the Machupichure.

In addition, we get to see some lesser visited areas of this beautiful country. These include Buddha's birthplace of Lumbini, and the charming villages of Tansen and Bandipur, giving plenty of opportunity for walks in the hills and observing village life at close quarters. The accommodation in the remote parts is relatively simple but comfortable.

Recommended Itinerary

DAY 01 - FLIGHT

Fly to Kathmandu

DAYS 2, 3 & 4 - KATHMANDU

Arrive into Kathmandu; transfer to the Kantipur Temple House (or Yak & Yeti/Dwarika's); visit the city including Swayambhunath, Kastha Mandap and Kumari Devi; see the ancient capital of Patan and the Tibetan Handicrafts Centre; visit Pashupatinath, Boudhnath and the World Heritage City of Bhaktapur. We can arrange a fascinating walking tour of the old city surrounding Darbar Square with an expert guide.

DAYS 5 & 6 - CHITWAN

Drive to Chitwan National Park, spend two nights at the reiverside Jungle Villa; enjoy wildlife activities in the park and a walk through the neighbouring Tharu Village.

DAY 7 - LUMBINI

Drive to Lumbini, the birthplace of the Buddha; stay at Hotel Nirvana or Maya Garden; visit the Maya Devi Temple.

DAYS 8 & 9 - TANSEN

Drive into the hills and spend two nights at the remote and less frequently visited town of Tansen; staying at Hotel Srinagar; day walks and bike rides can be arranged into the nearby villages.

DAYS 10, 11 & 12 - POKHARA

Drive on to Pokhara and spend three nights relaxing at the Temple Tree Resort (or the Tiger Tops Mountain Lodge); at leisure.

DAYS 13 & 14 - BANDIPUR

Drive to Bandipur, staying at The Old Innn for two nights; enjoy walks in this heritage village and the surrounding hills.

DAY 15 - KATHMANDU

Return to the capital for a night.

DAY 16 - RETURN FLIGHT

Transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

Extensions

Treks

Easy to moderate treks can be arranged from Pokhara in the Gurkha villages surrounding Pokhara, varying in duration, typically 3 to 6 days. You can stay in tea houses or in tents.

Bardia

Spend a couple of days at the rich and unspoilt Bardia National Park; there are flights from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and then a road transfer to the park. The Tiger Tops Karnali Lodge is a good choice for accommodation and safaris.