Nepal – The Gorkha Land
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Nepal with our exclusive 12-day tour, offering a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Begin in the vibrant city of Kathmandu, exploring its rich history and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Experience the thrill of an Everest helicopter tour and delve into the serene landscapes of Chitwan National Park with exciting jungle activities.
Discover the enchanting beauty of Pokhara, a short trek through the picturesque Dhampus Village, and unwind at the tranquil Begnas Lake Resort.
Conclude your journey with a farewell dinner at the renowned Krishnarpan restaurant, leaving you with cherished memories of Nepal’s breathtaking vistas, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. Join us for an unparalleled adventure that promises to captivate and inspire.
Dates: 01 – 12 March 2025
Length: 12 days | 11 nights
Small group: Min 6 | Max 11 guests
Price: $9,290 – Private single rooms
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
Everest Helicopter Tour
Enjoying a thrilling heli-tour with aerial views of Mt Everest and the Himalayas landing for breakfast at the Everest Hill Hotel
Royal Chitwan National Park
Enjoy a day of jungle activities including a jeep safari, canoe ride and a jungle walk
Visit Dhampus
Enjoy an authentic Nepalese village experience in Dhampus with spectacular views of the Annapurna Mountain Range
Wellness Stay
Enjoy a 2 night stay at Bengas Lake Resort. Choose from a range of activities like hiking and biking or relax with their Ayurveda therapies & yoga options.
Day 01 | Saturday, 01 March 2025
Arrive Kathmandu
Arrive at Kathmandu International Airport. Following customs, immigration formalities and baggage collection, our representative will meet you as you exit the arrival terminal building after which you will be transferred to your hotel.
Nepal, officially the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, is a landlocked sovereign state located in South Asia. It is located in the Himalayas and bordered to the north by the People’s Republic of China, and to the south, east, and west by the Republic of India.
Kathmandu is the nation’s capital and the country’s largest metropolis. Nepal has a rich geography. The mountainous north has eight of the world’s ten tallest mountains, including the highest point on Earth, Mount Everest (8884 M). It contains more than 240 peaks over 20,000 ft (6,096 m) above sea level. The fertile and humid south is heavily urbanized.
Upon arrival, transfer to hotel for check-in.
Overnight: Aloft Kathmandu Thamel (or similar). (Meals: D)
Day 02 | Sunday, 02 March 2025
Kathmandu
After breakfast, proceed for full day sightseeing tour of Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Darbar Square, Swayambhunath and Thamel.
Begin your day with a visit to Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the heart of the old city. This historic complex, once the royal residence, features around 50 temples, including the Taleju Bhawani temple. The Durbar Square is divided into two courtyards: the outer courtyard, which includes Kasthamandap, Kumari Ghar, and Shiva-Parvati Temple, and the inner courtyard, housing Hanuman Dhoka and the main palace. The square also contains two museums and is the site of important ceremonies, including the coronation of Nepali monarchs.
Next, explore Patan, known as “The city of a thousand golden roofs.” Now only separated from Kathmandu by a bridge over the Bagmati River, Patan, or Lalitpur, is famed for its blacksmithing and goldsmithing traditions. Wander through its historic heart, adorned with narrow streets, brick houses with carved wooden balconies, and numerous stupas, chaytyas, and bahals, reflecting the city’s rich Buddhist heritage. Patan’s four cardinal stupas were erected during the reign of Emperor Ashoka around 250 BCE.
Experience local culture with a visit to Cosy Nepal in Patan for a cooking session and lunch.
Later, explore Sabah Nepal for a textile experience. SABAH Nepal is a community-based social-business organization that empowers financially deprived and marginalized home-based workers through skill enhancement and capacity-building programs.
Conclude your day at Swayambhunath, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, believed to have been established over 2,500 years ago. Known as the Monkey Temple for its holy monkey inhabitants, Swayambhunath is one of the most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites, with a history as a major centre of Buddhist learning since the 13th century.
Later, enjoy a rickshaw ride to the Thamel area through the narrow streets of Kathmandu. Sit back and relax as your cycle rickshaw is expertly navigated through the buzzing backstreets of this energetic place. The adventure will take you to the touristic heart of the city, Thamel. The streets here are lined with shops selling everything from pastries to pashminas, and your rickshaw seat provides the perfect platform for you to do a spot of window-shopping along the way. Soak up the hive of activity taking place as you zip through this popular part of town.
Later, enjoy a welcome dinner with Cultural Dance Performance.
Overnight: Aloft Kathmandu Thamel (or similar). (Meals: B, L, D)
Day 03 | Monday, 03 March 2025
Kathmandu
Experience of a lifetime: The Everest helicopter tour
Start your day with an early morning hotel pickup in Kathmandu, heading to Tribhuvan International Airport for a memorable helicopter tour. Settle into your seat as your expert pilot takes off, flying eastward parallel to the majestic Himalayan Mountain range. The first landing is in Lukla, the gateway to Mount Everest, where the picturesque heli-tour truly begins. After a brief refueling stop, ascend into the mountains for an incredible sightseeing adventure, marveling at the magnificent views as you fly over the stunning Himalayas. The helicopter will hover just 100 feet (30 meters) above the cliffs and trekking routes of Mount Everest, offering an almost tangible experience of its peak. Continue the flight to Syangboche, located at an elevation of 12,300 feet (3,750 meters).
At Syangboche, enjoy breakfast at the Hotel Everest View during your 30 to 45-minute stop. Soak in the clear aerial views of Mount Everest and the Himalayas while sipping your hot coffee in the crisp mountain air. After breakfast, return to Lukla for refueling before heading back to Kathmandu.
Sketch Helicopter Trip Itinerary:
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| 06:15 AM | Departure from the hotel. |
| 07:00 AM | Departure from Kathmandu to Lukla (01 Hour flight) |
| 08:00 AM | Arrival in Lukla (10 minutes stay for refuelling) |
| 08:10 AM | Take a round of Everest Base Camp (15 – 20 minutes) |
| 08:30 AM | Land at Syanbouche |
(Breakfast at Everest View Hotel Syangboche)
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| 09:15 AM | Depart Syangbouche – Lukla (10 minutes) |
| 09:25 AM | Arrival in Lukla (10 minutes for refueling process) |
| 09:35 AM | Departure Lukla – Kathmandu (1 hour flight) |
| 10:45 AM | Arrival in Kathmandu |
| Return to the hotel and relax for a couple of hours. |
In the afternoon, visit Boudhanath Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated about 6 km from the city centre. This 36-meter-high stupa is one of the largest in South Asia and serves as the centre of Tibetan culture in Nepal. Renovated by the Licchavi rulers in the eighth century, the mandala design of Boudhanath is a replica of the one in Gyangtse, Tibet. The stupa is said to entomb the remains of a Kasyap sage, revered by both Buddhists and Hindus. Witness the kora, a circumambulation of the stupa by Buddhists with prayer wheels and rosaries, chanting “OM MANE PADME HUM.” You might also like to light a butter lamp to complete your visit.
End your day with an interaction session with a monk.
The evening is at your leisure.
Overnight: Aloft Kathmandu Thamel (or similar). (Meals: B, D)
Day 04 | Tuesday, 04 March 2025
Kathmandu to Bharatpur (By Air) to Chitwan (18 Kms/ 45 Mins)
Begin your day with a morning transfer to Kathmandu airport for your flight to Bharatpur. Upon arrival, travel by surface to Chitwan.
The Royal Chitwan National Park is a conservation success story in South Asia. Established in 1973, this is Nepal’s first national park, preserving a unique and valuable ecosystem. Spanning 932 square kilometers in the subtropical inner Terai lowlands of southern central Nepal, the park is home to over 43 species of mammals, including the endangered one-horned rhinoceros, tiger, and gharial crocodile. It also hosts a variety of other wildlife such as gaur, wild elephants, four-horned antelope, striped hyena, and gangetic dolphin.
Enjoy lunch at your hotel upon arrival.
In the late afternoon, indulge in sundowners, with spectacular views of the sun setting over the jungle, illuminating the hills and mountains. In the evening, attend a presentation by a jungle expert on the Royal Chitwan National Park and other wildlife topics.
End your day with a vibrant Tharu Cultural Dance performance.
Overnight: Jungle Villa Resort (or similar). (Meals: B, L, D)
Day 05 | Wednesday, 05 March 2025
Chitwan
Spend a full day immersed in the wonders of Chitwan National Park with a variety of jungle activities:
- Nature/Jungle Walk: Explore the rich flora and fauna of the park on a guided walk through the jungle.
- Canoe Ride on the Rapti River: Glide along the Rapti River in a canoe, where you might spot various wildlife including birds and crocodiles.
- Jeep Safari: Enjoy a thrilling jeep safari, offering a chance to see some of the park’s most elusive animals.
- Visit to Crocodile Conservation Centre: Learn about the efforts to protect and conserve the gharial and other crocodile species.
The evening is at leisure.
Overnight: Jungle Villa Resort (or similar). (Meals: B, L, D)
Day 06 | Thursday, 06 March 2025
Chitwan to Pokhara (By Air)
In the morning, transfer to Bharatpur airport and board a flight for Pokhara. Upon arrival in Pokhara, transfer to your hotel and check in.
Pokhara is a remarkable place of natural beauty, situated at an altitude of 900m and 200 km west of Kathmandu Valley. Known as a center of adventure, this enchanting town boasts several beautiful lakes and offers stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks. The serenity of the lakes and the magnificence of the Himalayas rising behind them create an ambiance of peace and magic.
The rest of the day is at leisure to explore Pokhara or simply relax.
Overnight: Temple Tree Resort & Spa (or similar). (Meals: B, D)
Day 07 | Friday, 07 March 2025
Pokhara – Day Hike to Dhampus Village
After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a surface journey to Phedi (40 km/1 hr). From Phedi, begin a trek of approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes to reach Dhampus.
Dhampus, a small village located in the Dhading District of Nepal, is renowned for its breathtaking views of the Annapurna Mountain range and its serene, rural atmosphere. This village is a favorite among trekkers and travelers seeking an authentic Nepalese village experience and stunning natural landscapes.
Activities in Dhampus include:
- Photography: Capture the panoramic views of the Himalayas, especially during the golden light of sunrise and sunset.
- Village Walks: Explore traditional houses, interact with locals dressed in their ethnic clothes, and gain insights into the Gurung culture.
- Visit Temples and Monasteries: Observe the religious practices at the local temples and monasteries.
- Bird Watching: Discover a variety of bird species in the surrounding forests and rural environment, with early mornings being the best time.
Later, walk back down to Phedi (2 hours) and drive back to Pokhara.
The evening is at leisure.
Overnight: Temple Tree Resort & Spa (or similar). (Meals: B, L, D)
Day 08 | Saturday, 08 March 2025
Pokhara
Begin your day early with a spectacular sunrise view of the Annapurna Mountain Range. Next, visit Bindabashini Temple, dedicated to the Hindu Goddess Durga. Located near Pokhara’s bustling Old Bazaar, this white pagoda-style temple stands about 3,000 feet above sea level and holds significant religious importance for Hindus. Witness daily rituals, and you may even catch a Hindu wedding ceremony in progress.
Return to the hotel for breakfast, then proceed to explore the Old Bazaar and the World Peace Stupa. The Old Bazaar, a historical trading hub, reflects Pokhara’s rich commercial past with its traditional Malla dynasty architecture. The World Peace Stupa, perched high above Phewa Lake, was built to promote world peace. Designed by Nichidatsu Fujii, this Buddhist stupa offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna range and the lake.
Later, enjoy a tranquil boat ride on Phewa Lake, the largest and most enchanting lake in Pokhara. You can sail or row across the lake to visit the island temple or simply soak in the serene beauty of your surroundings.
The evening is at leisure.
Overnight: Temple Tree Resort & Spa (or similar). (Meals: B, D)
Day 09 | Sunday, 09 March 2025
Pokhara to Begnas (15 Kms/ 1 Hr)
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before travelling by surface to Begnas Lake Resort. Located southeast of Pokhara, Begnas Lake is the third largest lake in Nepal and the second largest among Pokhara’s eight lakes. The lake’s water levels vary seasonally, regulated by a dam built in 1988 on the Khudi Khola stream.
Upon arrival, enjoy a day of leisure and exploration around the tranquil Begnas Lake.
Yoga & Meditation Session
Spa & Wellness
Fishing in Begnas Lake
Cycling in Begnas Area
In the evening, immerse yourself in the local culture with a traditional singing and dancing session.
Overnight: Bengas Lake Resort (or similar). (Meals: B, D)
Day 10 | Monday, 10 March 2025
Begnas
Enjoy a full day of relaxation and leisure at Begnas Lake Resort. Take advantage of the various activities available to you throughout the day. Please note that wellness and Ayurveda massages are offered at an additional fee.
Overnight: Bengas Lake Resort (or similar). (Meals: B, D)
Day 11 | Tuesday, 11 March 2025
Begnas to Pokhara (15 Kms/ 1 Hr) to Kathmandu (By Air)
In the morning, transfer to Pokhara Airport for your flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Enjoy Farewell Dinner in the Krishnarpan, the signature restaurant of the Dwarika’s Hotel serving traditional Nepalese Food.
The Krishnarpan is the signature restaurant of the Dwarika’s Hotel, offering a slow-dining Nepalese gastronomic experience. Krishnarpan treats your senses to a culinary splurge as it pays homage to Nepal’s vibrant ethnicity and its traditional food. Every menu is carefully designed and based on Dwarika’s organic farms.
Overnight; Dwarika’s Hotel Kathmandu (or similar). (Meals: B, D)
Day 12 | Wednesday, 12 March 2025
Kathmandu Departure
Breakfast is at the hotel.
Later, transfer to Kathmandu International terminal to connect flight for your onward destination.
* We are offering an optional Bhutan extension hosted by our local guide click here for more details
(Meals: B)
Inclusions:
- SoloMade Hosted Tour
- 11 Nights accommodation in the hotels mentioned above or similar;
- The Everest Helicopter Tour with Breakfast;
- Welcome Dinner with Cultural Dance Performance in Kathmandu;
- Farewell dinner in the celebrated Krishnarpan Restaurant, Dwarika’s Kathmandu;
- Cooking demonstration/ class followed by lunch with a local family in Patan;
- Meals as mentioned in the travel program;
- Services of accompanying English speaking guide in Nepal;
- All transfers, sightseeing & excursions will be by an Air-conditioned vehicle in Nepal;
- Domestic airfare in economy class from Kathmandu to Chitwan, Chitwan to Pokhara and Pokhara – Kathmandu;
- Monument entrance fees as per the travel program;
- Travel Sapphire Representative for assistance upon arrival and departure at airport;
- All Government Taxes.
Exclusions:
- Expense of personal nature like tipping, laundry, beverages, camera/video camera fee at monuments, medical expenses, airport departure tax etc;
- Visa Fees of Nepal;
- Any Insurance;
- Any other services not mentioned in the above inclusions.