Highlights of Nepal
Small Group Journeys

Highlights of Nepal

Discovering Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan and a short introductory tour to the Annapurna Sanctuary

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Highlights of Nepal is an introductory tour that covers some of the top destinations in Nepal, including Kathmandu, Pokhara, Poon Hill, and Chitwan. This tour offers an enchanting journey through the breathtaking beauty and diversity of the country. It is thoughtfully designed to showcase Nepal’s natural wonders, historical landmarks, and rich cultural heritage.

The Highlights of Nepal begins with a cultural exploration of the Kathmandu Valley. Here, you will visit some UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Kathmandu Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, and the Boudhanath Stupa. Moving ahead, the journey continues towards the picturesque lake city of Pokhara, where you can experience the tranquility and charm of its serene lakeside ambiance.

The journey then takes you through the scenic lower Annapurna region for a gentle trek to Ghorepani and Poon Hill, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Annapurna ranges. The relaxed pace of the hike provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in rural Nepali life, fostering meaningful interactions and a deeper appreciation of the local culture.

After a rewarding three-day trek, immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the Pokhara Valley, celebrated for its tranquil lakes, intriguing caves, and enchanting attractions. From there, the journey continues south to Chitwan, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Here, you can engage in wildlife activities, bringing your Nepal adventure to a memorable conclusion.

The Highlights of Nepal tour captures the very essence of this enchanting country, seamlessly blending stunning natural landscapes, exhilarating adventures, cultural immersion, and a journey through Nepal’s most iconic destinations. From the towering peaks of the Himalayas to the serene lakes of Pokhara and the rich cultural tapestry of the Kathmandu Valley,

The Highlights of Nepal tour offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration, trekking adventures through breathtaking landscapes, serene experiences in Pokhara, and exciting wildlife encounters in Chitwan. Perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and culture enthusiasts alike, it provides a comprehensive glimpse into the heart of this remarkable land.

Highlights of Nepal Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 2: In Kathmandu
Day 3: Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara
Day 4: Drive from Pokhara to Ghandruk & Trek to Tadapani
Day 5: Trek from Tadapani to Ghorepani
Day 6: Hike to Poon Hill-Trek to Ulleri & Drive to Pokhara
Day 7: Fly from Pokhara to Chitwan
Day 8: Jungle Safari in Chitwan
Day 9: Fly from Chitwan to Kathmandu
Day 10: Departure

Overview

cultural_tour Trip Type Culture Tours
Activities Included Activities Included
Activities Included Culture Tours
Accommodation Accommodation 3-4 star category hotels and resorts in cities and village lodge/tea house during the trek.
Meal Meal Only breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara, while all meals are included in Chitwan and during the trek
Best Seasons Best Seasons Through out the year except during the monsoon. Best during spring and autumn.
Route Route Kathmandu-Pokhara-Ghandruk-Tadapani-Ghorepani-Ulleri-Pokhara-Chitwan-Kathmandu
  Best Months Best Months January, February, March, October, November, December

Good Months Good Months April, September

Lean Months Lean Months May, June, July, August

  • Explore the world Heritage Sites in Kathmandu Valley.
  • Walk along the Bhaktapur Durbar Square and experience the architectural marvels of the medieval period.
  • Immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of Boudanath Stupa.
  • Explore the beautiful lake city of Pokhara.
  • Introduction to a gentle trek in the foothills with views of snow-clad peaks.
  • A glimpse of traditional Nepalese lifestyle.
  • Opportunity to meet and interact with locals from different ethnic groups.
  • Spectacular panoramic sunrise view from Poon Hill.
  • Encounter a diverse range of flora and fauna along the way.
  • Explore the Jungle and Natural World Heritage site of Chitwan National Park.

Cost Information

Land costs range from US$1,280 to US$2,355 per person, depending on travel dates and group size.
The prices provided are general estimates. Please contact us for specific pricing details tailored to your needs.
This trip is available as a daily join-in group departure with a maximum of 8 members.

Included

  • All transfers by private vehicle.
  • Accommodation in 3-4* category hotels and resorts in Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan.
  • Accommodation in a Tea house lodge during the trek.
  • Only breakfast during the stay in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • All meals(breakfast, lunch, and dinner) in Chitwan and during the trek.
  • One welcome or farewell dinner with a cultural performance in Kathmandu.
  • English-speaking tour/trek guide throughout the trip.
  • 1 porter for every two trekkers during the trek.
  • Domestic airfare between Kathmandu-Pokhara-Chitwan-Kathmandu.
  • All sightseeing and monument entry fee.
  • Bottled mineral water in the vehicle.
  • All necessary paperwork and permits for the trek (TIMS/ACAP).
  • All government tax and service charges.

Not included

  • Nepal Visa.
  • International airfare.
  • Meals other than listed (lunches and dinner in Kathmanud and Pokhara).
  • Personal expenses (laundry, telephone, bar, beverages).
  • Tips and gratuities to guide, porter, and driver.
  • Travel medical insurance.
  • Trip cancellation cost due to your health, weather condition, political situation, and any other unforeseen events.
  • Any other expenses other than the listed above.

Detailed Itinerary

Expand All
Day 1:

Arrival in Kathmandu

Upon your arrival at the Kathmandu Airport, a Wind Horse representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. After you have freshened up, your guide will take you for a walk to the old Kathmandu city through small alleyways, cozy markets and hidden courtyards to Kathmandu Durbar Square.

Situated in the heart of the city Kathmandu Durbar Square is also known as Basantapur and Hanuman Dhoka. This is the former palace used by the Kings of Nepal. Kathmandu Durbar square is quite impressive with its intricate wood carvings, rich history and temples and old structure.

You will visit the Durbar square area along with various temples and monuments. In the evening, you will enjoy dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant featuring a cultural performance. Overnight in Kathmandu.

MEALS:
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 1350m
Day 2:

In Kathmandu

You will begin your Highlights of Nepal tour with a visit to Bhaktapur. Bhaktapur presents a captivating glimpse into Nepal’s rich history and cultural legacy. In Bhaktapur you will explore the Durbar Square, the square has an array of temples adorned with intricate carvings, statues, and architectural marvels made of stone, metal, and wood.

The main attractions in Bhaktapur includes the Golden Gate, Nyatapola Temple, Taumadhi Square, Dattatreya Temple, the Palace of Fifty-Five Windows, and Pottery Square. The Palace of Fifty-Five Windows is famous for its elaborate woodwork, reflecting the city’s rich artistic legacy. And at the Pottery Square, you’ll witness traditional pottery-making techniques on wooden wheels, where artisans craft various clay shapes, preserving age-old methods in a rapidly modernizing world.

After exploring Bhaktapur, you will proceed towards Pashupatinath temple. Situated on the banks of the Bagmati river it is one of the most revered Hindu temple in Nepal. The main temple complex is not accessible to non-Hindus, but you can explore around the periphery of the temple. Here you will be able to see the holy men, pilgrims and funeral pyres burning at the ghats on the banks of the Bagmati river.

Following the visit, you will drive to Boudanath Stupa. Boudanath Stupa is one of the largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal and also a World Heritage Site. Boudanath signifies peace and tranquility, and is a Centre of religious and spiritual significance. You will see thousands of pilgrims and monks circumambulating the stupa, you will circumambulate with pilgrims and visit the surrounding monasteries. Overnight in Kathmandu.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Altitude Altitude: 1350m
Duration Duration: 5-6hrs
Day 3:

Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara

This morning, you will drive to the domestic airport and take a flight to Pokhara. Our guide and vehicle will receive you at Pokhara airport and transfer you to your hotel in the Lakeside area. Upon reaching the hotel, you can rest and relax until lunch. After lunch, we will embark on a half-day tour around Pokhara, visiting Devis Fall, Gupteshwor Cave, Peace Pagoda, and the Lakeside area. Overnight in Pokhara.

This morning, you’ll drive to the domestic airport in Kathmandu, where you’ll board a flight to Pokhara. The flight offers a spectacular aerial view of Nepal’s majestic mountain ranges, giving you a bird’s-eye perspective of the country’s awe-inspiring landscapes.

Upon arriving in Pokhara, our vehicle will pick you and transfer you to your hotel in the picturesque lakeside area. After a short break you will go for a half day tour around Pokhara. You will take a boat ride on Phewa Lake and visit the sacred Tal Barahi Temple, located on a small island in the middle of the lake.

If you are interested you also have the option to cross the lake and take a short hike to the World Peace Pagoda. The World Peace Pagoda not only stands as a symbol of peace but also offers stunning panoramic views of Pokhara Valley and Phewa Lake.

After taking in the views, you will meet the vehicle and drive to visit the Davis falls, a spectacular and mysterious water fall that disappears down to an underground tunnel. Next you will visit the Gupteshwor Mahadev cave, one of the longest caves in Nepal and has important religious significance for the Hindus. The rest of the evening is free to stroll around the lake side area. Overnight in Pokhara.

 

MEALS:
Breakfast
Altitude Altitude: 822m
Duration Duration: 3-4hrs sightseeing
Day 4:

Drive from Pokhara to Ghandruk & Trek to Tadapani

The trek from Ghandruk to Tadapani not only offers stunning mountain views but also provides an opportunity to immerse you in the rich Gurung culture at Ghandruk village.

The drive to Ghandruk passes through charming villages like Nayapul, Lumle, and Kimche. Ghandruk village is a large Gurung village with a Gurung museum and one of the best views of the Annapurna South, Gangapurna, Annapurna III, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre. You will explore around the village and visit the Gurung museum.

After lunch, you will begin your trek towards Tadapani, the trek goes along with the magnificent views of Annapurna, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchre . Tadapani provides amazing view of Annapurna II, Annapurna III, and various other peaks. Overnight in Tadapani.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 2690m
Duration Duration: 3hrs drive/3-4hrs trek
Overnight Tea house
Day 5:

Trek from Tadapani to Ghorepani

The trail from Tadapani offers breathtaking views as it winds through lush forests of rhododendron. Descending from Tadapani, you will cross over the Bhurung Khola, pass through the villages of Banthanti and Deurali, leaving the main trail toward the Annapurna Base Camp, you will head towards Ghorepani.

Ghorepani is a large village with a number of guest houses and tea houses and a popular stop over for trekkers in this region, and also a popular as the gateway to Poon Hill, famous for its panoramic views of the Himalayas during sunrise. Overnight in Ghorepani.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 2880m
Duration Duration: 5-6hrs
Overnight Tea Houes
Day 6:

Hike to Poon Hill-Trek to Ulleri & Drive to Pokhara

Starting early before dawn allows you to witness the gradual unveiling of the stunning scenery as the sun rises, casting its golden hues upon the snow-capped peaks like Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, Nilgiri, Hiunchuli, and South Annapurna.

Poon Hill is considered to be one of the best view points in Nepal. It takes about 45 minutes to reach the Poon Hill viewpoint (3210m), it is a steep ascent all the way from Ghorepani. The panoramic vista from Poon Hill is truly awe-inspiring and well worth the early start.

After enjoying the beautiful moment, you will retrace back to Ghorepani for breakfast. After breakfast, you leave Ghorepani and continue along the through pine and rhododendron forest towards Ulleri. At Ulleri, you will board on to the waiting vehicle and drive to Pokhara. Overnight in Pokhara.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Altitude Altitude: Poon Hill at 3210m
Duration Duration: 2-3hrs hike/1.5hrs drive
Day 7:

Fly from Pokhara to Bharatpur (Chitwan)

Today you will take a domestic flight from Pokhara to Chitwan. Upon arrival at Bharatpur airport, a representative from the resort will receive you and transfer you to the resort.

After lunch, you will have the opportunity to explore a local Tharu village, including a visit to the Tharu Museum. The Tharus are indigenous to this region, and their culture is unique, distinct from what is typically seen in Nepal or India.

This short visit will provide you with an opportunity to delve into their culture, traditions, and way of life, offering insights into their unique heritage. After the village tour, you will return to the resort, where you can enjoy the scenic views from the deck area. Overnight in Chitwan.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 415m
Day 8:

Jungle safari In Chitwan

After an early breakfast, you will embark on a Jeep Safari through the wilderness of Chitwan National Park. This safari offers a chance to spot a variety of wildlife native to the region, including deer, sloth bears, Asiatic rhinoceroses, elephants, leopards, and, if you’re fortunate, the elusive Bengal tiger.

Return back to the resort for lunch. With a short break after lunch, you will go for a Patela boat ride along the Rapti River. This scenic ride allows you to observe aquatic birds, gharials, crocodiles, and other wildlife inhabiting the riverbanks.

As part of your exploration, you will also take a short jungle walk to visit the Crocodile Conservation Center. This visit provides valuable insights into the efforts being made to protect this endangered species.

In the evening, you will have the opportunity to witness the Tharu Stick Dance, a traditional performance by members of the Tharu Tribe, followed by a delightful dinner. Overnight in Chitwan.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 415m
Duration Duration: 5-6hrs
Day 9:

Fly from Bharatpur to Kathmandu

Following breakfast, a representative from the resort will escort you to Bharatpur airport for your flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arriving in Kathmandu, a Wind Horse representative will be present at the airport to meet you and facilitate your transfer to the hotel. The rest of the day is yours to spend at leisure, allowing you to relax and explore at your own pace. Overnight in Kathmandu.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Day 10:

Departure

Transfer to Kathmandu International Airport for your departure flight back home.

MEALS:
Breakfast

Group Travel Dates

Start Date
End Date
Status
Remarks
 
11 Feb, 2025
20 Feb, 2025
Open

12 Mar, 2025
21 Mar, 2025
Open

Holi

13 Apr, 2025
22 Apr, 2025
Open

New Year & Bisket Jatra

02 May, 2025
11 May, 2025
Open

14 Oct, 2025
23 Oct, 2025
Open

Deepawali

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Overview

cultural_tour Trip Type Culture Tours
Activities Included Activities Included
Activities Included Culture Tours
Accommodation Accommodation 3-4 star category hotels and resorts in cities and village lodge/tea house during the trek.
Meals Meals Only breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara, while all meals are included in Chitwan and during the trek
Route Route Kathmandu-Pokhara-Ghandruk-Tadapani-Ghorepani-Ulleri-Pokhara-Chitwan-Kathmandu
Max Group Size Max Group Size 2-8
Best Seasons Best Seasons Through out the year except during the monsoon. Best during spring and autumn.
Best Months Best Months January, February, March, October, November, December

Good Months Good Months April, September

Lean Months Lean Months May, June, July, August

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