Day 1: Arrive at Kathmandu, Nepal by your scheduled flight – this itinerary assumes an arrival in the late morning or early afternoon. Easy Tours will be happy to guide and/or assist you with planning your international flight logistics. Our services begin with your greeting at Tribhuvan Airport. You are driven to your luxury hotel in Kathmandu and assisted with your check-in, available at 3 PM. Your upgraded room will have a great view of the Boudhanath Stupa, a striking UNESCO World Heritage Site.
We recommend a day at leisure upon arrival so as to both recuperate from your international flights, as well as to build a cushion for unexpected flight delays. As all Nepal bound flights originating from the United States connect somewhere and most of them arrive in Kathmandu in the morning or very early afternoon, and we recommend that you schedule your arrival day as your day of leisure.
Welcome to an ancient Himalayan Country that offers a fascinating culture, incredible scenery, very warm and friendly people, great trekking opportunities, and a whole lot more. With the exception of the fairly congested Kathmandu Valley, Nepal has charming and laid-back cities and towns, along with picturesque wildlife parks that are home to many endangered species.
(Overnight – Hyatt Kathmandu)
Day 2: Kathmandu. (Breakfast)
Weather permitting, you can choose to experience an optional Everest flight this morning with private assisted transfers between the lodge and the airport – Pre-booking Required. If weather conditions result in the flight getting cancelled, it can be substituted for the following day.
Boudhanath Stupa UWHS. Begin your exploration of the ancient Kathmandu valley with a 5-minute walk to the Boudhanath Stupa, one of Kathmandu’s two main landmarks. This is the largest stupa in Nepal and a major pilgrimage destination for Buddhists. Said to have been built just after Lord Buddha’s departure from the world almost 2500 years ago, the stupa has multiple legends associated with it in both Nepalese and Tibetan Buddhism.
Tibetan Buddhists. The influx of Tibetan Buddhists escaping China’s control over the last six decades has transformed the area around it as many of them have settled here, and have also built over 50 Gompa’s (monasteries) around the Stupa. Exploring the stupa and its colorful surrounding areas is a highlight for any visitor to Kathmandu.
Patan Durbar Square UWHS. Next is a drive to Patan, one of the three queen cities of the Kathmandu Valley. We recommend lunch here, before or after your exploration. Patan is a UNESCO world Heritage Site, the Kathmandu Valleys City of Fine Arts. You will start with an exploration of the Durbar Square. The museum here houses a collection of ancient bronzes and religious objects. Other noteworthy monuments are the impressive carvings at the 17th century Krishna Mandir and Mahavihar, and the 12th century Temple of the Buddha.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square. UWHS. Another drive will bring to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bhaktapur. One of the Kathmandu Valley’s three queen cities, this is The City of Devotees. Although this queen city received extensive damage during the 2015 earthquake, there is still enough remaining to marvel at as you walk around the ancient square with its unique architecture and charming temples. The architecture and culture here is different from what you will experience in most of Kathmandu, as ancient Newari architecture and culture are found here in their purest form. From here will be driven back to your hotel.
Day 3: Kathmandu. (Breakfast) Continue your tour of Kathmandu city.
Swayambhunath Temple and Pagoda. This is Kathmandu’s signature monument, with the expressive eyes and nose painted on all four sides of its unique crown that are visible from almost all the Kathmandu Valley. With a history that may go back as far as 2500 years, this ancient complex is obviously a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is built on a hilltop.
Devout Nepalese walk up the hill from the base (365 steps), but most of our guests prefer to drive up almost all the way up and then use the few steps on the other side of the hill. Although a couple of the smaller surrounding monuments were damaged during the 2015 earthquake, the main structure still stands, along with other smaller shrines and monasteries surrounding it.
Kathmandu Durbar Square UWHS. you are driven to another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the main queen city of the Valley. The monuments in the Square were built between the 12th and 18th centuries, and this is where, even today, most of the state ceremonies are performed. Start with a visit to the beautifully carved 17th Century three-story building called Kumari Ghar, which means the abode of the Living Goddess. Guests may want to spend a couple of minutes researching this ancient tradition before their visit. If you are fortunate, you may be graced with the anointed child’s appearance in an upstairs window. You will then explore the ancient square and its many monuments, with the opportunity to pose in front of Kal Bhairav, an ancient and impressive stone relief of Lord Shiva in one of his most fearsome manifestations.
Thamel Bazar District. After the Stupa you will enjoy a walk in Thamel, the main bazaar area of Kathmandu. There are a lot of lunch options and your guide will make suggestions based on your preferences. Thamel is also where a lot of the inexpensive hostels and other budget lodging options are located, and its colorful alleys are always abuzz with activity. Locals and backpackers flock to this area to shop for a vast range of products, from daily requirements to souvenirs, from clothing to footwear to toys. There are also a large number of dining and street food options for the backpackers, ranging from local Nepalese delicacies to western fare.
Pashupatinath Temple UWHS. From here you will proceed to the Pashupatinath Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most sacred Hindu shrines in the world. Originally built around 2400 years ago, the spectacular temple was reconstructed by a Nepalese king in the 15th century after the original wooden structure was (purportedly) consumed by termites. A lesser-known fact among western visitors is that Nepal’s natives are primarily Hindus (over 80%), and Pashupatinath’s surrounding area is dotted with ancient Hindu shrines and ashrams, as well as a steady stream of pilgrims and worshippers.
Nepal’s holy river Bagmati flows through here and its banks are constant witnesses to Hindu ceremonies for the dead and the living. There is a cremation area where pyres are always present, and your Guide will ask you for a mindful approach in these areas. The main temple and most of the surrounding shrines received no damage in the 2015 earthquake. Return to your hotel after this, and prepare for your morning departure.
(Overnight – Hyatt Kathmandu)
Day 4: Kathmandu – Pokhara. (Breakfast)
You are assisted with your checkout in the morning you are driven to the Kathmandu airport and assisted with boarding your flight to the Annapurna Region and Pokhara. Arrive at Pokhara and, after a short introduction to the region, as well as lunch, you are driven to your historic island hotel, which is accessed by a unique boat pulled by ropes.
Fish Tail Lodge. This is an enchanting comfortable lodge that embodies the serene beauty and cultural richness of its surroundings, while providing unparalleled views of the majestic Annapurna Range and the sacred Machapuchare (Fishtail) Mountain, from which it derives its name. Among the famous individuals who have stayed at the lodge are Queen Elizabeth II in 1961, and Prince Charles many years later. Jimmy Carter stayed here, as did Charlie Chaplin and many other dignitaries. The small boutique tourism area next to the lake and your lodge is full of charming little café’s, bars and souvenir shops, and can be a fun destination for one evening.
Ancient Trade Route. Pokhara was a key stop on a busy trade route that extended from India to Tibet. To this day, mules can occasionally be seen camped on the outskirts of the town, bringing goods to trade from remote regions of the Himalaya. This is the land of the Magars and Gurungs, hardworking farmers and fierce warriors who have earned worldwide fame as Gurkha soldiers, and who are also your guides in case you opt for treks in the Himalayan Annapurna Range. The British Army has long recruited soldiers from this region, and continues to do so today.
Phewa Lake Cruise. During this private cruise you will go past the simple three-story villa where the King of Nepal maintains his winter home. Stop at the small golden temple to the Hindu god Varaha, nestled in foliage on an island in the center of the lake. You will see many fishermen and other pilgrims take their long canoes (carved from tree trunks) to the island to visit the shrine. Pokhara is at an elevation lower than Kathmandu, and has a much more tropical feel to it, which leads to the amazing diversity of bright flowers that adorn much of the valley.
The Pokhara Region Possible Extensions:
1. Adventure Activities. Pokhara is an area of lakes and mountains, and the valley and surrounding Himalayas offer some of the world’s best trekking, paragliding, and hand gliding. There is kayaking and white-water rafting, zip lining, the Pokhara Ultralight (for a unique gliding experience), mountain biking, and a whole lot more. You can ask us to include any of the above activities, extending your stay by the needed number of days. The serenity of Phewa Lake and the magnificence of the holy summit of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain) at 22,890 feet (6,977 m) are sights one has to experience to appreciate.
2. Trekking Heaven. Pokhara is a part of most Nepal trekking itineraries, as much of that occurs in the Himalaya’s surrounding the Pokhara valley. Popular moderate treks are the treks that used to be called the Sanctuary Lodge treks. These can be overnight (with 1 lodge) or multiple nights (with more lodges). The treks are 3 to 4 hours a day of not too strenuous walking, with spectacular views, charming pastoral stops at unique Gurkha villages, and a lot more.
(Overnight - The Fish Tail Lodge)
Day 5: Pokhara. (Breakfast) Start your day with a visit to Pokhara's largest Tibetan Refugee Camp.
Tashiling Tibetan Refugee Camp. Established in the early 1960s following the Dalai Lama's flight from Tibet and the subsequent influx of Tibetan refugees, the camp is situated with the majestic Annapurna range serving as a stunning backdrop, in stark contrast to the tumultuous journey faced by its residents. Initially set up as a temporary refuge, Tashiling has developed over the decades into a self-sustaining settlement, providing a home to several hundred Tibetan refugees.
Tibetan Culture and Traditions. One of the most striking aspects of Tashiling is its commitment to preserving Tibetan culture and traditions. The camp features a monastery where daily prayers and rituals are performed, maintaining the spiritual practices that are central to Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery, with its vibrant murals and statues, serves as a focal point for the community, offering a place for meditation, religious ceremonies, and festivals.
Handicraft Center and School. The zero pressure handicraft center within Tashiling is another significant cultural hub. Here, residents produce traditional Tibetan crafts, such as intricately woven carpets, colorful thangka paintings, and handcrafted jewelry. The camp houses a school (closed on holidays) that provides education to Tibetan children, ensuring that they receive a balanced curriculum that includes Tibetan language, history, and cultural studies alongside standard academic subjects.
Refugee Life. Life in Tashiling is characterized by a strong sense of community and mutual support. Communal activities, such as festivals, religious ceremonies, and cultural events, play a vital role in fostering solidarity and cultural continuity. Many residents carry the memories of their homeland and the hope for a return to Tibet.
World Peace Pagoda (Shanti Stupa). A very short drive will bring you for a stop at this unique monument and the spectacular view. The World Peace Pagoda was constructed by Japanese Buddhist monks in the 1970s as part of a worldwide initiative to build peace pagodas in various locations to inspire global harmony and peace. Its design is quintessentially Buddhist, characterized by its white dome and gilded pinnacle, which reflect the simplicity and purity of Buddhist architecture. The vantage point from the pagoda offers a 360-degree panorama, encompassing the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, the serene waters of Phewa Lake, and the sprawling city of Pokhara below.
Flexible - Devi’s Fall and Gupteshwor Cave. Nearby Devi’s Fall is a unique waterfall where the water disappears into an underground tunnel. Near it, the Gupteshwor Cave is a sacred cave featuring a shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. You can explore the cave’s intricate rock formations and underground waterfall, which is linked to Devi’s Fall.
Flexible - International Mountain Museum. On your way to the city side of Pokhara, you have the option to stop for a tour of this museum. Sections include:
Mountain People Gallery. This section focuses on the diverse ethnic groups living in the Himalayan region, including the Sherpas, Gurungs, Thakalis, and other communities. It showcases their unique cultures, traditions, and ways of life through displays of traditional clothing, tools, household items, and photographs.
Mountain Gallery. Here you’ll find detailed information about the geology and geography of the Himalayas, including maps, models, and photographs of the major peaks, such as Mount Everest, Annapurna, and Machapuchare. This section also includes information on the flora and fauna of the region.
Mountaineering Gallery. This section is dedicated to the history of mountaineering in the Himalayas. It features an extensive collection of mountaineering equipment used by climbers over the years, and pays tribute to the pioneering mountaineers who first scaled these formidable peaks, such as Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay.
Explore the Old Bazaar. You will probably want to break for lunch at this time. Pokhara's Old Bazaar is a vibrant and historically rich area that offers a glimpse into the locals’ traditional life and culture and has been a center of trade and commerce for centuries. Historically, it served as a vital trading hub where merchants from different regions, including Tibet and India, and this confluence of cultures and goods gave rise to a rich tapestry of traditions and a marketplace that thrived on diversity. Walking through the narrow streets, the architecture is distinctly traditional, with buildings showcasing intricate Newari craftsmanship. The streets are lined with temples and shrines, each with its own historical and religious significance, adding to the area's cultural depth.
Bindhyabasini Temple. One of the most prominent landmarks in the Old Bazaar is the Bindhyabasini Temple. This ancient Hindu temple, dedicated to the goddess Bindhyabasini, is a major pilgrimage site. Perched on a hill, the temple complex is often bustling with devotees, and it also offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Flexible - Gurkha Memorial Museum. After this you can return to your lodge to relax and take in the views, or head nearby to the Gurkha Memorial Museum, which is dedicated to the brave Gurkha soldiers who have served, and still do, in the British and Indian armies. The museum showcases the history, achievements, and contributions of the Gurkhas, featuring a collection of photographs, medals, and weaponry. It provides an in-depth understanding of the valor and legacy of these renowned warriors.
(Overnight - The Fish Tail Lodge)
Day 6: Pokhara – Kathmandu - Dhulikhel. (Breakfast)
You are assisted with your checkout in the morning and driven to the Pokhara airport and assisted in boarding your flight to Kathmandu. Your flight may offer you spectacular views of the tallest Himalayan Ranges. Upon arrival you are driven to Dhulikhel, about an hour and a half into the Himalayas surrounding Kathmandu Valley. Arrive at your comfortable mountain resort and you are assisted with your check-in. Your upgraded room has a fantastic view of many of our planet’s tallest mountains.
Dhulikhel. The scenic town of Dhulikhel has been an important trading post between the Kathmandu Valley and Tibet for many centuries and the views of the Tibetan and Nepalese Himalayas have to be seen to be believed. Over twenty of the tallest peaks of the Himalaya’s can be seen from different vantage points in the town, including Mt. Lhotse (27939 ft) and the spectacular Annapurna (26545 ft). Please note that the best time for good visibility of the distant Himalayas is at sunrise.
The Kali Temple. Perched atop a hill, this busy temple offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape for those open to a gentle climb. Dedicated to Goddess Kali, a fierce incarnation of Goddess Durga and embodies the force of time and change, often depicted as a destroyer of evil forces. Sweeping vistas of the Kathmandu Valley, the terraced fields, and the majestic Himalayan peaks in the distance create a breathtaking backdrop. We recommend a visit before sunset, when the sky is painted with vibrant colors, and the mountains are bathed in golden light
(Overnight – Aagantuk Resort)
Day 7: Dhulikhel. (Breakfast)
Proceed for a guided exploration of the fascinating small town of Dhulikhel. This is a flexible day after you explore the old town, which can take as long as you want.
Dhulikhel Old Town is a treasure trove of traditional Newari architecture. The narrow, cobblestone streets are lined with beautifully preserved houses featuring intricately carved wooden windows and doors. The town square, or "chowk," is a vibrant hub where locals gather, and small shops sell everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.
Namobuddha Monastery. This Monastery is a short drive from Dhulikhel, and requires a moderate uphill trek at the end. The name "Namobuddha" itself means "Hail to the Buddha," and the complex is an architectural marvel that combines traditional Tibetan Buddhist design with elements of Nepali craftsmanship. The monastery's golden roof and stupas gleam in the sunlight, creating a striking contrast against the lush green hills and blue skies. The monastery is an active center for Buddhist learning and practice and is home to a community of monks and nuns who engage in daily rituals, prayers, and meditation sessions that you can witness.
Hiking Opportunities. Dhulikhel is also a gateway to numerous hiking and trekking trails that cater to both novice and experienced trekkers. The trails meander through terraced fields, dense forests, and traditional villages, offering an intimate glimpse into rural Nepali life. Your guide can take you on gentle or more strenuous walks based on your preferences.
(Overnight – Aagantuk Resort)
Day 8: Dhulikhel – Kathmandu Airport - International Flight. (Breakfast)
You are assisted with your check-out from your lodge by noon and driven to the airport (about 1.5 hours) for your international flight. Those departing later in the day, or at night, can ask us to reserve an additional day of lodging and any other services they may want. At the airport you will be assisted with your check-in.
Our services end at Kathmandu Airport.
