Where Gods Descend: A Journey Through Nepal’s Living Traditions

04th Sep 2025 | Thursday

Upon arrival at Kathmandu Airport, you’ll be greeted with a traditional Nepali Dhaka scarf — a timeless emblem of Nepal’s artistry and heritage. After a seamless transfer, settle into your hotel (early check-in subject to availability).

This afternoon, visit Swayambhunath Stupa, the revered “Monkey Temple,” perched gracefully above Kathmandu Valley. More than 2,000 years old, this sacred site blends Buddhist and Hindu traditions, embodying Nepal’s enduring spirit of harmony. As you explore its quiet shrines and gaze over the sprawling cityscape, take in the subtle rhythms of devotion that have echoed here for centuries. Playful monkeys add a lively charm, completing this immersive experience.

Return to your hotel for a restful evening, ready to uncover the layers of Kathmandu’s timeless allure.

Stay: Holiday Inn Express – Deluxe room
Meals included: No meals

05th Sep 2025 | Friday

Explore Patan Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Lalitpur, just south of Kathmandu. This historic square was once the seat of the Malla dynasty and remains a vibrant center of Nepalese culture. Wander through ancient palaces and temples adorned with exquisite Newari wood carvings, including the Taleju, Bhimsen, and Krishna Temples. The square also houses museums and galleries that celebrate Nepal’s rich artistic heritage.

As a unique highlight, experience the Magic of Singing Bowl with a master practitioner. These ancient Himalayan bowls, crafted by Tibetan and Nepali monks, create soothing sound vibrations renowned for healing and relaxation. When played, their deep, resonant tones produce calming waves believed to rejuvenate the body and mind, leaving you peaceful and refreshed.

Return to your hotel with a deeper connection to Nepal’s artistic and spiritual traditions.

Stay: Holiday Inn Express – Deluxe room
Meals included: Breakfast only

6th Sep 2025 | Saturday

Start your day with refreshing tea or coffee before transfer to the domestic airport for an optional mountain flight over the Himalayas. Soar past Mt. Everest (8,848 m) and other majestic peaks—Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Makalu—taking in breathtaking views above the Roof of the World. Visit Boudhanath Stupa, the world’s largest Buddhist stupa, where a monk will warmly welcome you for a private guided parikrama, followed by prayers and blessings in a nearby monastery. Light a butter lamp and offer prayers for your loved ones in this serene spiritual setting.

In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the vibrant Indra Jatra Festival at Kathmandu Durbar Square. This centuries-old celebration honours Lord Indra, the god of rain, with joyous mask dances, traditional music, and the spectacular chariot procession of the living goddess Kumari. Witness Kathmandu come alive with colour, devotion, and cultural pride.

Stay: Holiday Inn Express – Deluxe room
Meals included: Breakfast only

7th Sep 2025 | Sunday

Discover Bhaktapur, a charming medieval town just 30 minutes from Kathmandu, rich in culture and tradition. Wander through Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its Lion Gate, Golden Gate, and the Palace of Fifty-five Windows—masterpieces of Newari architecture. Visit the majestic Nyatapola Temple, the tallest in Kathmandu Valley, and explore centuries-old pagodas.

Immerse yourself in authentic local life with a hands-on pottery-making session, shaping black clay alongside expert artisans. Then, witness the ancient handmade paper-making process, a true Newari craft, perfect for unique souvenirs. Savor the renowned Juju Dhau, a rich Newari curd delicacy, paired with a traditional Newari lunch shared with a local family, offering a glimpse into their vibrant culture. In the afternoon, drive to Nagarkot, a peaceful hilltop retreat. From here, enjoy sweeping views of eight Himalayan ranges, including the Annapurna and Everest ranges, framed by lush pine forests—an ideal spot for sunrise or sunset.

Stay: Club Himalaya – Mountain View Room
Meals included: Breakfast and Lunch

8th Sep 2025 | Monday

After an early sunrise view and breakfast, transfer to the airport for a short flight to Pokhara—Nepal’s Adventure and Leisure Capital, nestled at the foot of the Annapurna Himalaya Range. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and check in. In the afternoon, enjoy a serene boat ride on Phewa Lake, the most enchanting of Pokhara’s lakes. Glide across the tranquil waters, soaking in reflections of the mountains and visiting the Tal Barahi Temple perched on an island in the lake.

Later, take a relaxed walk along Lakeside, Pokhara’s vibrant tourist hub, lined with cafés, boutiques, and cultural shops. It’s the perfect place to unwind, soak in the lakefront atmosphere, and get a taste of Pokhara’s laid-back charm. With its balance of natural beauty and easygoing rhythm, Pokhara is not just a gateway to the Himalayas—it’s a destination to linger in.

Stay: Bar Peepal Resort – Deluxe Room
Meals included: Breakfast only

9th Sep 2025 | Tuesday

After breakfast, set off for Kalimati Choche, followed by a short 10–15 minute hike to the World Peace Stupa, a striking white monument built by Japanese monks, perched above Phewa Lake with sweeping Himalayan views. Post this serene experience, embark on a scenic drive from Pokhara to Chitwan [Approx. 6–7 hrs], transitioning from mountain valleys to the lush Terai Lowlands.

Home to the iconic Chitwan National Park, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a haven for wildlife lovers—think Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinos, and over 500 bird species. On arrival, transfer to your resort, where a naturalist greets you with refreshments and an overview of the park’s offerings. After check-in and lunch, take a Tharu village walk, exploring the traditions of a malaria-resistant tribe that has lived here for centuries. As night falls, gather around for an open-air Tharu cultural dance performance, bringing local rhythms and rituals to life.

Stay: Green Mansion Resort – Deluxe Room
Meals included: Jungle Plan

10th Sep 2025 | Wednesday

Start your morning with an exhilarating Jeep Safari, venturing deep into Chitwan National Park. Led by an expert driver and naturalist, this 3 to 4-hour experience takes you along forest trails in search of wildlife like spotted deer, wild boar, sloth bear, monkeys, and—if you’re lucky—the elusive Royal Bengal tiger. Along the way, your naturalist will share insights into the park’s diverse flora and fauna.

After breakfast at the lodge, continue your exploration with a series of immersive jungle activities: a peaceful Boat Safari (canoe ride) down the Rapti River where you may spot rhinos, crocodiles, and birdlife; a guided Jungle Walk, perfect for birdwatchers and those who want to connect closely with nature; and a cultural Tharu Home Visit, offering a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of Chitwan’s indigenous people. Note: The jungle walk is a moderately paced 5–7 km trek and not recommended for young children.

Stay: Green Mansion Resort – Deluxe Room
Meals included: Jungle Plan

11th Sep 2025 | Thursday

After breakfast and morning activities, drive from Chitwan to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for check-in and some rest. In the evening, embark on a sightseeing tour of Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most sacred Hindu temples globally and a major pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located on the banks of the Bagmati River, this temple symbolizes Shiva in his benevolent form, the shepherd of fertility, where only fruits, flowers, and vermilion are offered—no animal sacrifices.

Experience the captivating Pashupati Bagmati Aarati, held daily at 6 pm on the riverbank opposite the temple. Watch as priests perform the ritual with oil lamps in graceful circular motions, accompanied by devotional bhajans that fill the air with spiritual harmony. This enchanting ceremony unites devotees in a shared moment of divine connection and peaceful reflection.

Stay: Holiday Inn Express – Deluxe Room
Meals included: Breakfast Only