The wonders of Nepal - Special Dashain Festival

Flight to Kathmandu on a regular flight.

Arrival at Tribhuvan Airport (Kathmandu), followed by transfer, welcome, and check-in at the hotel. In the afternoon, visit the Thamel district, the main tourist area of Kathmandu. Due to its proximity to the historical center of the city, it's the ideal place to start your first day of sightseeing.

After breakfast, depart for Dakshinkali, arrive and visit the town's temple, dedicated to the goddess Kali. Ascend Pharping Hill, rewarded by breathtaking views of the entire Himalayan range, as well as its Buddhist monastery. Enjoy a typical vegetarian Nepali lunch. Excursion to Kirtipur, a sleepy town that reflects a bygone grandeur through its impressive medieval temples scattered throughout its streets. Discover the Bagh Bhairab Temple, dedicated to the Tiger God Bhairab, and the Chilanchu Vihara, located on a hilltop, which features a central stupa surrounded by four smaller stupas. Return to Kathmandu with a stop at Chobhar Gorge, located on a hill.

Depart for Patan, the City of Beauty, one of the three ancient capitals of the valley. Patan offers a multitude of temples, palaces, shrines, and Buddhist monasteries: the Royal Palace, whose façade is an example of the local goldsmiths’ craftsmanship, Krishna Mandir, Narayan Mandir, Vishwanata, and Bhimsen Mandir (Mandir = temple). Visit the Golden Temple, which has a golden image of Buddha, and the Khumbeshwar Pagoda. Discover Durbar Square. Unusual visit to Pashupatinath, one of the oldest sites in Nepal, and the most important Hindu temple in Nepal. It is dedicated to Pashupati, an incarnation of Shiva in his form as the "master of animals." You'll have an overview from the other side of the Bagmati River, which serves the same purpose as the Ganges in India. Many pilgrims, including numerous sadhus, gather here. Then visit Bodhanath, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site built in the 5th century. There is a possibility to meet monks. You will then head to Nagarkot, arriving at sunset, which offers an exceptional view of the Himalayas.

A mini trek from Nagarkot to Nala (3 hours of easy walking) through Tamang and Chettri (Nepali ethnic groups) villages, arriving in the town of Nala and visiting the Bhagaveti Temple. Continue to the medieval city of Bhaktapur and visit one of the most beautiful cities in the Kathmandu Valley. Enjoy a calmer atmosphere as the city empties of tourists, and the town is also known for its pottery.

On the road to Chitwan National Park. Established in 1962, it is the largest of Nepal's five national parks in the Terai region. It is home to the famous white rhinoceros, deer, antelopes, monkeys, tigers, leopards, bears, crocodiles, and over 300 species of birds. Arrival at the hotel and check-in.

The day is dedicated to various activities: a nature walk or a visit to a local village. You can also opt for a jeep safari to discover the park’s wildlife or a canoe ride to explore an alligator reserve and observe numerous birds. The Chitwan Reserve is abundant with rare species.

Departure to Pokhara. Upon arrival, visit this important city and explore Devi's Falls. For those who wish, there is a short hike to reach the World Peace Pagoda. A beautiful panorama of the city and lake awaits.

We recommend an early wake-up to enjoy the sunrise over the Annapurna range—a truly thrilling experience! Depart for a 2-hour easy-level mini-trek to witness the sunrise. Enjoy a boat ride on Lake Phewa. Near the lake is Barahi-Bhawani Temple, located on a small island. Visit the Tibetan village of Tashiling. Free time for lunch. Attend a prayer ceremony at the Hemja Monastery. Then, visit the International Mountain Museum to learn about the major milestones in the history of the Himalayas' peaks. Free time for dinner outside by the lake to extend the pleasure of the magnificent view of the mountains and lake.

The Dashain Festival

Dashain (or Bijaya Dashami) is considered a victory of good over evil. It is the most important festival for Nepali Hindus, celebrating the victory of the goddess Durga over the demons, proving that good always prevails. It is customary for elders to apply tika (red powder) to the foreheads of the younger ones while reciting mantras in Sanskrit.

Departure back to Kathmandu, a full day of travel. Upon arrival in the evening, enjoy a free dinner at a Nepali specialty restaurant, accompanied by a traditional folk dance show.

Discover Durbar Square and visit the palace square, where you can admire the Taleju Temple. Visit the Swayambhunath Temple, known as the Monkey Temple. It is one of the most famous Buddhist stupas (Chaityas) in the world and the largest. You will need to climb 365 steps to reach it. This temple features all the classical elements of stupa architecture. It consists of several key components: a hemispherical base topped by a conical spire. The famous eyes of Buddha, filled with wisdom, are painted in all four cardinal directions at the base of the cone. There is also a profusion of small stupas and temples at the foot of the main monument. Depending on the flight schedule, transfer to the airport.