GLIMPSE OF NEPAL

After breakfast at the hotel, commence the sightseeing tour of Kathmandu city, Swayambhunath and Patan city. Kathmandu City: Kasthamandap, the source of the name Kathmandu means ‘made from the timber of a single tree’. Also known as Kantipur, the capital Kathmandu is the hub of Nepal's art and culture. It is a place for rest, relaxation and easy-day sightseeing of historic and artistic temples and monuments. Kathmandu Durbar Square with its arrays of temples, Seto Machhindranath and the ancient palace of the former Nepali Royals enriches your experience of the centuries old civilization. Swayambhunath: Said to be around 2000 years old, this Buddhist Stupa sits atop a hill. The main stupa is composed of a solid hemisphere of brick and earth supporting a lofty conical spire crowned by a pinnacle of Copper gilt. Painted on the four sided base of the spire are the all seeing eyes of Lord Buddha. The hill of Swayambhunath is a mosaic of small Chaityas and Pagoda temples. You’ll get a scenic view of Kathmandu city from there. Patan City: Located about 5 km south of Kathmandu, Patan is one of 3 royal cities in the valley. A destination for connoisseurs of fine arts, Patan is filled with wood and stone carvings, metal statues, ornate architecture, including dozens of Buddhist and Hindu temples, and over 1200 monuments. Patan is believed to have been built in the third century B.C. by the Kirat dynasty later expanded and enriched by the Licchavi and the Malla rulers in the medieval period. Patan Durbar Square, like its counterpart in Kathmandu, is an enchanting mélange of palace buildings, artistic courtyards and graceful pagoda temples. The former Royal palace complex is the centre of Patan’s religious and social life, and houses a beautiful museum. One remarkable monument here is 16th century temples dedicated to the Hindu go Krishna, built entirely of stone. Overnight at Hotel.

After breakfast at the hotel drive to Charaundi for day raft at Trishuli River. Name of this River, Trishuli, followed from a famous pilgrimage place Gosaikunda which lies high in the Himalaya. High in the Himalaya at Gosaikunda the god Shiva drove his trident into the rocky mountain to create three springs – the source of the river and hence its name Trishuli. The River has fixed some truly impressive gorges in its lower part as it cut its way through the 2000 meters high Mahavarat Range. For many people this river represents the ideal rafting trip just the right length of time, exciting rapid, but not too difficult, easily reachable from Kathmandu. Certainly Trishuli River rafting is the ideal trip if you are looking for more of a ‘wilderness’ experience unsullied beaches and un-spoilt scenery. The rapid on Trishuli are mainly big, bouncy and relatively safe; ‘flips’ (where the raft capsizes) or other accidents are rare in normal water condition, and if you wish, it is possible to walk around the few difficult rapid. After rafting trip we drive to Chitwan [182km/5-6 hours under normal road condition]. Chitwan National Park is a large and beautiful nature reserve occupying 932 sq. km. of land inhabitant of endangered royal Bengal tiger and the one-horned Indian rhino. Chitwan National Park was protected since the 19th century as a hunting reserve for Nepali royals and foreign aristocrats. In a famous hunting expedition, King George V and his son Edward VIII managed to slaughter 39 tigers and 18 rhinos in a single blood-soaked afternoon. Unfortunately, habitat loss and poachers continue to decimate the number of tigers and rhinos. Today, there are less than 80 tigers and 500 rhinos left in the Park. There are more than 50 species of mammals in Chitwan including monkeys, tigers, leopards, sloth bears, wild boar, hyenas, deer, elephants and rhinos. There are also 450 different species of birds and 67 species of butterflies. The main attraction of Chitwan is the Elephant Safari. It is a unique experience to explore the jungle on the back of a trained elephant. While you are not likely to see the Bengal tiger, you should be able to see the Indian rhino and enjoy one of the nicest nature reserves of the Indian sub-continent. Watch out for branches – particularly if you are sitting behind other passengers. Dinner and Overnight at Hotel.

Bird watching: Chitwan is an ornithologist’s delight and a must for any serious twitchier, as more than 450 species of exotic birds such as the Oriental Pied Hornbill, Paradise Flycatcher, and Lesser Adjutant Stork congregate at this biological hotspot of Asia. Our experienced guides will take you to select spots ideal for birding, where you can observe a breathtaking diversity of these beautiful feathered creatures. Dugout Canoe ride: Floating down to Rapti River by dugout canoe is the best way to discover the habitat of crocodiles on the bank of the river. It is also a relaxing and better way to watch the different kind of birds and wildlife species when they come to the bank of the river to drink water. Elephant Breeding Center: Elephant Breeding Center was established in 1985 at Royal Chitwan National Park (RCNP) and is the only EBC in Nepal. At the Elephant Breeding Program, 4km west of Sauraha, elephants are breed and trained. The best time to visit is in the afternoon when the elephants are fed. The Elephant Breeding Centre of Sauraha with great tourist attraction is said to be one of the only 3 such centers in the world. Elephant skin is extremely sensitive to sunburn and insect bites; they roll in dust and mud and throw dust on their backs to help protect their skin. This was one of such moments when this restless young Elephant tried to get rid of insect. Tharu village visit: Tharu are indigenous people of the Terai. They have a distinct architectural style, building solely of the natural materials found in the area; straw, wood and mud. Even though by now almost all Tharus are Hindus some elements of their tribal religion can still be found. The villages are often peaceful, non-industrial havens, with the inhabitants engaged in a yearly agricultural circle. Elephant Safari: Seated high on the back of an elephant, gain a unique viewpoint of the Chitwan jungle. As an experienced mahout tracks animals through the dense jungle growth as you sit back on a howdah, you can imagine yourself being a Rajah or Rani going on a shooting trip (with cameras of course!) in the days of yore. An elephant safari allows you to go places that would be impossible to get to by foot or Jeep and get up close to the wild animals of the jungle that are normally wary, but at home with a fellow creature of the jungle. Tharu dance: A melodious tribal dance performed by men and women with rhyme or drums and the clashing of sticks embodies and projects how to keep away the rhino and other wild animals from the human habitat and their farming land. You can enjoy your evening after dinner and watch the Tharu Stick Dance. We will arrange dance for your enjoyment adjacent to our Restaurant. Lunch, Dinner and Overnight at Hotel.

After breakfast at the hotel drive to Lumbini (approx 5-6 hours under normal road condition). Lumbini is situated at the foothills of the Himalayas in modern Nepal. In the Buddha's time, Lumbini was a beautiful garden full of green and shady sal trees (Shorea robusta). The garden and its tranquil environs were owned by both the Shakyas and the clans. King Suddhodana, father of Gautama Buddha, was of the Shakya dynasty and belonged to the Kshatriya (warrior caste). Maya Devi, his mother, gave birth to the child on her way to her parent's home in Devadaha while resting in Lumbini under a sal tree in the month of May, 642 BC. The beauty of Lumbini is described in Pali and Sanskrit literature. Maya Devi, it is said, was spellbound to see the natural grandeur of Lumbini. While she was standing, she felt labour pains and catching hold of a drooping branch of a sal tree, she gave birth to a baby, the future Buddha. Check In and Overnight at the hotel.

Breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast commence the sightseeing tour of Lumbini. Ashokan Pillar in Lumbini: The Ashoka Pillar-In 1895, a German archaeologist, white wandering about the foothills of the Churia range, discovered a massive stone pillar erected by Emperor Ashoka in 250 B.C. to pay homage to the birth place of Buddha. It is said that the Indian Emperor visited Lumbini Garden in the twentieth year of his coronation. The stone pillar bears the following inscription: King Piyadasi, beloved of the gods, having been anointed twenty years, came himself and worshipped saying: "Here Buddha Shakyamuni was born. He caused a stone pillar to be erected, because the worshipful one was born here. The village of Lumbini has been made free of taxes and a recipient of wealth. The Temple of Maya Devi: The next visible monument in Lumbini is the temple of Maya Devi containing a stone relief depicting the birth scene of Lord Buddha. The bas-relief shows Maya Devi supporting herself by holding on to a branch of a sal tree, and the newborn infantBuddha standing upright on a lotus pedestal. Two celestial figures are engaged in the act of pouring water and lotuses from the heaven, indicated in the sculpture by a delineation of clouds. The Maya Devi shrine has been worshipped by both Hindus and Buddhists since the beginning of the Christian era and is believed to have been built over the foundation of at least one earlier temple or stupa. To the South of the Maya Devi temple is the famous sacred pool of 'Puskarani', believed to be the same sacred pool in which queen Maya Devi bathed just before giving birth to Buddha. It is also believed to be the same sacred pool in which queen Maya Devi bathed just before giving birth to Buddha. It is also believe to be the pool where the infant Buddha was given his first purification bath. The structure consists of three projecting terraces in descending order and is riveted with fine brick masonry. After sightseeing tour continue drive to Pokhara. Pokhara is a remarkable place of natural beauty. At an elevation lower than that of Kathmandu, it has much more tropical feel to it; a fact well appreciated by the beautiful diverse flowers that prosper in this environment. The enchanting city with a population of around 95,000 has several beautiful lakes and offers stunning panaromic views of Himalayan peaks. The valleys surrounding Pokhara is home to thick forest, gushing rivers, emerald lakes and of course, the views of world famous Himalayas. The serenity of the lakes and the magnificence of the Himalayas rising behind them create an ambience of peace and magic. Pokhara is the most popular destination for visitors to Nepal. The city is also known as the center of adventure. There is little in its past by way of neither history nor culture impact and the only important role that the old Pokhara played was that it was along the route of trade between India and Tibet. Today it is one of the fastest developing cities of Nepal, mainly due to tourism. The natural beauty of its lakeside location and its proximity to the mountains has made it the natural choice for trekkers and adventures. Pokhara is also the base for some of most famous trekking circuits of Nepal. By itself surrounding area provides ample scope for short walk and day trips, suitable for children or weary trekkers, which can be made around the valley. Check in at the Hotel. Boat ride at Phewa Lake: Spend a quiet time boating in the ultimate lake where the reflections of Mount Annapurna and Machhapuchhare range falls. You will also see a variety of fishes while boating. An island temple is located at the middle of the lake. Thick forest lies on the adjoining southern slopes of the lake. It’s hard to escape the draw of Phewa Lake and any visitor with even a few spare minutes should endeavour to take a boat out on the water to fully experience the wonderful views of the reflected mountains. Evening: Welcome dinner at local restaurant. Overnight at Hotel.

Early in the morning our representative assists you at your hotel and drive to Sarangkot for the breath taking view of sunrise at Annapurna range. Sarangkot is the small hilltop which is famous for its breath taking view of sunrise and Annapurna range and Fishtail (Virgin Mountain). From here, you can see a panoramic sweep of Himalayan peaks, from Dhaulagiri (8167m) in the west to the perfect pyramid that is Machhapuchhare (6997m) and the rounded peak of Annapurna II (7937m) in the east. Most people come here at dawn or dusk, when the sun picks out the peaks in brilliant colors. After breakfast at the hotel commence the sightseeing tour. Devi's fall: Locally known as Patale Chhango (Hell's fall), Devi's fall is an amazing waterfall lying about 2 km south-west of Pokhara airport on the highway to Tansen. It was named after Devi, a Swiss lady who was swept away when the floodgates were accidently opened, never to be seen again. Seti River Gorge: Carved by Seti River, the gorge is one of the natural wonders of Pokhara. Ki Singh Bridge at Bagar, Mahendra Bridge & Prithivi Highway Bridge near Bus Park provides a perfect view of the deep river gorge with turbulent rush of milk like water. Tibetan Villages: Tibetan Villages, Tashiling in the south and Tashil Palkhel in the north of Pokhara Valley are the two Tibetan villages that are inhabited by the Tibetan people who keep themselves busy by producing and trading woollen carpets and other handicrafts. World Peace Stupa: Balanced on a narrow ridge high above Phewa Tal (Lake), the brilliant-white World Peace Pagoda in Pokhara is a massive Buddhist stupa which was constructed by Buddhist monks from the Japanese Nipponzan My?h?ji organisation. Besides being an impressive sight in itself, the shrine is a vantage point which offers spectacular views of the Annapurna range and Pokhara city. There are three paths up to the pagoda and several small cafes once you arrive. Optional activities in Pokhara: Paragliding: Paragliding is the most pure form of flying. By using the elements and rising currents of warm air, we can stay aloft for many hours and travel many miles. This simple aircraft fits easily into a rucksack and weighs around 10kg. In Nepal the flying is made more special by the continuous presence of numerous species of eagle, vulture, falcon, hawk and kite. They all love to join us, equally fascinated by us as we are by them. Often flying within feet of the glider! Frontiers Paragliding offers 3 stages to becoming a pilot. We follow the Para-Pro syllabus; this is set out by the Federation Aeronautic International (FAI) the controlling body for all air sports worldwide. All our instructors are highly experienced and form the backbone of a highly professional team. The license we issue is authorized by the Federation Aeronautic International (FAI). This is the controlling body for air sports worldwide. The IPPI card (International Pilot Proficiency Identification) is recognized in every country that has an air sport association. Ultra Light or Micro light: “If I had wings I would fly”. You can come close to flying; just go up in an ultra-light aircraft and get a sweeping bird's eye view of the entire Pokhara Valley. It is an exhilarating ride that allows unhindered views of the mountains and the scenic lakes far below. For those who always dreamed of flying like a bird, here’s your chance. Soar into the blue skies, brush the clouds and get the feeling you can touch the sparkling mountains. It’s a heavenly flight. Ultra-light flights are operated from Pokhara Airport beginning September through June. Easy to operate, Ultra-lights can take off and land on a field or even a dirt road, and in areas where other planes fear to tread. With a limited capacity, it seats only two, a passenger and the pilot. Ultra-lights can fly for hours and ascend to a maximum height of 5000 meters. With its aerodynamic design, it can fly for hours even with the engine shut off. Safety is ensured as the pilots have over 6000 flights under their belt. Overnight at Hotel.

After breakfast at the hotel, we take a one-hour leisure drive to Naya Pool along the graceful Modi Khola Valley. On reaching our destination, we begin our highly panoramic Annapurna trek. The route skirts through lush forest leading finally to Birethanti after walking for one hour. Birethani houses well-resourced shops, hotels, cafes, a police check post, a bakery and a bank, a nice little village town to have fun and settle in for our first over night on the mountains. Lunch, Dinner and Overnight at Local Lodge.

Leaving Birethani, we trail along terraced fields beneath the splendid panorama of awe-inspiring glaciated Himalayan mountain ranges. On passing a succession of flatlands, forest, cultivated lands and a suspension bridge over Khumnu Khola, we arrive at the beautiful village of Ghandruk after walking for 3 to 4 hours. An ideal vantage point in this pristine village offers breathtaking views of Annapurna South, Gangapurna, Annapurna III, Machhapuchhare and Hiunchuli. Several hotels and teahouses at the village welcome us with warmth and sincere hospitality while catering to the requirements of all trekkers’ who hit the trail through this village. Camping in its terraced fields can indeed be very exciting and adventurous! Lunch, Dinner and Overnight at Local Lodge.

From Ghorepani, you proceed further along steep trails. Nature spreads exotic sight of majestic snow-capped mountain peaks, lush vegetation and rich plant life before you. You climb through rhododendron forest to Deorali [3100m] and reach a hamlet and cultivated fields. Continue walking for 3 hours and finally you will find yourself in Ghorepani. Ghorepani also houses lodges to provide food and accommodation to travelers. Lunch, Dinner and Overnight at Local Lodge.

After breakfast, we depart along the ridge and descend through the wooded hillside and terraced farmland to the valley floor. Trek time 1 ½ hours. On the way back to Pokhara, the vehicle can stop on request at the Tibetan refugee camp where you will have time to explore the temple complex. After reaching Pokhara free day or explore on your own. Overnight at Hotel.

After breakfast at the hotel fly back to Kathmandu. On arrival in Kathmandu drive to Nagarkot. NAGARKOT: Nagarkot is a village located about 32 kilometers east of Kathmandu on the north-eastern rim at an elevation close to 6,800 feet above sea level. Nagarkot is famous as one of the most scenic spots in the region, renowned for its sunrise and sunset views of the Himalayas. Visitors often travel to Nagarkot from Kathmandu to spend the night so that they can be there for the breathtaking sunrise view. It also offers an excellent view of the Indrawati river valley to the east. With a panoramic view of the Valley, it is described by visitors as a place whose beauty endures year round. If luck favours, you can even spot Mount Everest out with its snow-topped peaks on a very clear day from an observation tower at the very top of the village’s hills. Check in and Overnight at Hotel.

Nagarkot has become famous as one of the best spots to view Mount Everest as well as other snow-topped peaks of the Himalayan range of eastern Nepal. It also offers an excellent view of the Indrawati river valley to the east. With an elevation of 2,195 meters, Nagarkot also offers a panoramic view of the Valley and is described by visitors as a place whose beauty endures year round. Visitors often travel to Nagarkot from Kathmandu to spend the night so that they can be there for the breathtaking sunrise view. After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Dhulikhel. Dhulikhel is justly famous as a well-preserved Newar town, mountain viewpoint, and hiking and biking hub, but its popularity is waning as road-building and modernization take their toll. Located 5km east of Banepa, just beyond the Kathmandu Valley rim, it sits in a saddle at the relatively low elevation of 1,625m which makes it warmer than Nagarkot. A number of resort hotels and guest houses are positioned along the highway to catch the best mountain views in the immediate vicinity, but the full vista can only be seen from a small summit above the town. Most visitors to Dhulikhel stay at least two nights, which allows time for a wander around the old town, a sunrise walk and a full-day circuit of the surrounding countryside and the cultural sites of Namobuddha and Panauti. Check In and Overnight at Hotel.

After breakfast at the hotel drive back to Kathmandu en-route visit Bhaktapur and Pashupatinath. Bhaktapur City (Bhadgaon): Also known as city of devotees, this place is the home of medieval art and architecture. Lying 14 kms./9 miles east of Kathmandu City, this place was founded in the 9th Century and is shaped like a conch shell. The city is at the height of 4600 ft. above sea level. In Bhadgaon, you will visit the Durbar Square with its array of temples overlooked by the Palace of 55 windows built by King Bhupatindra Malla. The Nyatapola Temple, also built by King Bhupatindra Malla, is the best example of Pagoda style and stands on five terraces on each of which stands a pair of figures - two famous strong men, two elephants, two lions, two griffins and two goddesses. Pashupatinath Temple: Pashupatinath Temple is one of the holiest Hindu Temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated amidst a lush green natural setting on the bank of the sacred Bagmati River, the temple built in Pagoda Style has gilded roof and richly carved silver doors. Pashupatinath is the centre of annual pilgrimage on the day of Shivaratri which falls in the month of February/March. Behind the temples are the cremation grounds. After sightseeing tour drive back to Kathmandu. Evening: Farewell dinner at Typical Nepal restaurant with cultural dance show. Overnight at Hotel.

Breakfast at the hotel we drive back to airport for final departure. We ensure that you will leave Kathmandu with cherishing memory and an experience of a lifetime. Our representative from Nepal Himalayan Voyages will drive you to the airport in time for your flight back home.