Handpicked
Ne pa l
A land of soaring mountain
peaks and ancient temples
and monasteries, of wildlife
viewing in national parks and
breathtaking scenery, Nepal
has always had a mystical
allure for travellers.S
ince Nepal opened to visitors in
the 1950s, it has drawn trekkers
and explorers to the Himalayas’
hiking trails – the entire length and
breadth of the country is a paradise for
trekkers – from the demanding climb
of Mount Everest to the Kathmandu
Valley and Annapurna treks. And while
the natural beauty of the country draws
you in, once there, it’s the culture and
history that leaves a lasting impression.
The 2,000-year-old Buddhist stupas in
Kathmandu and the village of Pokhara
are sights not to be missed, while a game
drive through Chitwan National Park can
bring you close to endangered wildlife.DAY 1
KATHMANDU
Arriving in Kathmandu is like stepping into
another world. Centuries-old Buddhist
and Hindu sites sit beside modern hotels
and restaurants, and ancient traditions
meld with the latest in technology.DAY 2
KATHMANDU
Today is all about discovering the
ancient religious history of Nepal and
Kathmandu. One of Nepal’s UNESCO
Heritage Sites, Bhaktapur, is the living
embodiment of medieval Nepal. Head to
Bhaktapur Durbar Square and take a walk
through its storied alleys. Stroll further
south to reach Pottery Square, where
you can admire the beautiful handicrafts
and try making a clay pot.
Boudhanath Stupa is the largest in
Nepal and the holiest Tibetan Buddhist
temple outside of that country. While
here you will interact with a lama, who
will bless the travellers. Afterwards, headto Pashupatinath Temple on the banks
of the Bagmati River, followed by inter-
action with one of the Hindu holy men
known as sadhus. In the evening, attend
an aarti ceremony, one of the most im-
portant observances of the Hindu faith,
during which lamps are lit in devotion
and thanksgiving.
Encounter the tallest mountain on
earth on an exhilarating flight past Mount
Everest. This flight can be added to your
journey on either day two or day 12,
depending on weather conditions. (B)DAY 3–4
KATHMANDU – CHITWAN
NATIONAL PARK
Satisfy your yearning for nature and
wildlife at Chitwan, one of the best parks
for wildlife viewing in Asia. Track wild
Bengal tigers and watch one-horned
rhinos bathe in rivers alongside great
Asiatic elephants. Discover the park
on activities including jungle treks,
bird watching and canoe rides. (B)136 NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC TRAVELLERCONCIERGE