Kathmandu, Lumbini, and Pokhara Tour

Elevation: 1,400 m / 4600 ft.

After breakfast, you'll embark on a full-day exploration of the Kathmandu Valley, including various UNESCO World Heritage Sites within Kathmandu.

Key Highlights:

Pashupatinath Temple: A majestic temple situated on the sacred Bagmati River, dedicated to Lord Shiva. As the most formidable of all Shiva temples, it houses the sacred linga, a phallic symbol. This temple is off-limits to non-Hindu visitors. The temple area also serves as Nepal's renowned Hindu cremation site.

Boudhanath Stupa: One of Kathmandu's most impressive landmarks, it's a hub of Tibetan Buddhism and boasts one of the world's largest spherical stupas. The base of the stupa is adorned with 108 small statues of Amida Nyorai, encircled by prayer wheels.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square: In the afternoon, visit the ancient royal capital of Bhaktapur. This 9th-century fortified city is a repository of medieval art and architecture. Walk through its cobbled streets and admire the historical charm. The Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases the artistic zenith of the Malla dynasty. While there, visit the Nyatapola Temple, Bhairavnath Temple, and the Golden Gate, a masterpiece of architectural art.

Return to your hotel after the sightseeing.

Overnight at Hotel [B]

Elevation: 150 m / 490 ft.

Distance: 283.4 km

Duration: 8-9 hours

After a relaxed morning breakfast, you'll embark on an 8 to 9-hour journey to Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Gautam Buddha. Lumbini is one of the holiest pilgrimage sites for Buddhists and holds immense archaeological and religious significance. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Terai Region of Nepal, within Province No: 5.

Upon reaching Lumbini, you'll check in to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Overnight at Hotel [B]

Elevation: 150 m / 490 ft.

Your day in Lumbini begins with a visit to the sacred Maya Devi Temple, the very place where Lord Buddha was born, and the serene surrounding garden—a UNESCO World Heritage Site holding immense spiritual importance.

Highlights:

Maya Devi Temple: Situated at the heart of Lumbini, this temple is the sacred place where Queen Maya Devi gave birth to Siddhartha Gautama, who would later become Buddha. It stands beside Pushkarini, a sacred pool, adding to its spiritual aura.

Ashokan Pillar: Located in front of the Maya Devi temple, this pillar was erected by the Indian emperor Ashoka in 249 BC when he visited Lumbini. The pillar was rediscovered in 1896 and is a significant historical artefact.

World Peace Pagoda: Just outside the main compound, this gleaming white pagoda provides stunning panoramic views of Pokhara City and Phewa Lake. It's a tribute to a Japanese monk who lost his life during its construction.

Various Monasteries: Lumbini features several monastic zones, each with its unique charm, architecture, and cultural significance. Explore monasteries like the Cambodian Monastery, Royal Thai Monastery, Zhong Hua Chinese Buddhist Monastery, and Myanmar Golden Temple.

Tilaurakot: Located 29 kilometres west of Lumbini, Tilaurakot is where Siddhartha Gautama spent the first 29 years of his life. The area features various attractions, including the Korean Buddhist Temple, Nepal Vajrayana Mahavihara Temple, and more.

This comprehensive exploration of Lumbini and its surroundings offers a profound immersion into the life and teachings of Buddha while providing a rich cultural experience.

Overnight at Hotel [B]

Elevation: 150 m / 490 ft.

Distance: 203 km

Duration: 6-7 hours

After a leisurely morning breakfast, your journey continues with a scenic drive to Pokhara, taking approximately 6 to 7 hours. Pokhara is celebrated for its pristine air, stunning mountain backdrops, serene lakes, and lush surroundings. It's often referred to as 'the jewel in the Himalayas' and serves as the gateway to renowned trekking routes.

During the drive to Pokhara, you'll make an interesting stop at Tansen, once the capital of the Magar kingdom. This heritage town offers panoramic views of the Mahabharata mountain range, including peaks like Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Manaslu. Stroll through the town to appreciate its traditional Newari houses and historical landmarks.

Highlights:

Tansen: This small heritage town boasts beautiful panoramic views of the Mahabharata mountain range, traditional Newari architecture, and historical sites like Tansen Durbar.

Rani Mahal: Often called "The Taj Mahal of Nepal," this site is a bit farther from Tansen and offers a fascinating historical visit.

After the enriching visit to Tansen, continue your drive to Pokhara, where you'll spend the night, ready to explore more of this enchanting city and its surroundings.

Overnight at Hotel [B]

Early in the morning, drive to Sarangkot for a captivating sunrise view. Sarangkot provides a spectacular vantage point to witness the golden morning, with views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre (Mt. Fishtail), and Dhaulagiri among other peaks.

Following the sunrise experience, the day's highlights in Pokhara include:

Phewa Lake: Enjoy a boat trip on Phewa Lake, Nepal's second-largest lake, offering breathtaking views of the Annapurna Range, especially on calm days when the mountains are reflected in the lake's waters.

Barahi Temple: Situated on a small island in Phewa Lake, this two-story pagoda is a Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Ajima in the form of a boar called Barahi.

Devi's Fall: Also known as Patal Chango, this unique waterfall vanishes underground, creating a mesmerizing spectacle, especially during the monsoon season.

Gupteshwor Cave: Located opposite Devi's Fall, this cave houses many shrines and statues dedicated to Hindu deities. It also offers views and sounds of Devi's Fall flowing through the cave.

World Peace Pagoda (Shanti Stupa): Perched atop Ananda Hill, this Buddhist-style pagoda provides a spiritual experience, along with panoramic views of Pokhara city and Phewa Lake.

Bindebasini Temple: Located in the city centre, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Parvati, with clear views of the Fishtail and Annapurna Range from its grounds.

Overnight at Hotel [B]

Elevation: 1,400 m / 4600 ft.

Duration: 7-8 hours

Today, you'll return to Kathmandu via the Prithvi Highway, a picturesque drive alongside the Trishuli River. The journey takes you through the Nepali countryside, offering stunning views and a winding mountain road.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you have the option to go souvenir shopping or relax at your hotel.

Overnight at Hotel [B]

Today, you will be transferred to the airport

  Ø  You can reach Kathmandu, Lumbini, and Pokhara by air or road. Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu serves as the major entry point for international travelers.

  Ø  The tour highlights include visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu, exploring the birthplace of Lord Buddha in Lumbini, and enjoying the scenic beauty of Pokhara and its surrounding areas.

 Ø  Accommodation is arranged in comfortable hotels or guesthouses with modern amenities and convenient locations.

 Ø  It is advisable to pack comfortable clothing suitable for both warm and cool weather, sunscreen, sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes, and personal essentials.

  Ø  No specific permits are required for the Kathmandu, Lumbini, and Pokhara tours. However, if you plan to visit specific heritage sites, entrance fees may apply.

  Ø  Yes, vegetarian food options are widely available in Kathmandu, Lumbini, and Pokhara, catering to various dietary preferences.

 Ø  The time spent traveling between Kathmandu, Lumbini, and Pokhara varies depending on the mode of transportation chosen. Generally, travel times are optimized to ensure ample time for sightseeing and relaxation.

  Ø  Yes, many tour operators offer customizable itineraries to accommodate the specific interests or preferences of travelers.

  Ø  Yes, Kathmandu, Lumbini, and Pokhara are popular tourist destinations in Nepal and are generally considered safe for travelers. However, it's always advisable to exercise caution and follow local guidelines.

  Ø  In Kathmandu, some must-visit attractions include Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. In Lumbini, visit the Maya Devi Temple and Lumbini Garden. In Pokhara, enjoy the serene Phewa Lake, visit the World Peace Pagoda, and explore the Gupteshwor Cave.

  Ø  Yes, tour durations can be extended based on your preferences and availability.

 Ø  Yes, English-speaking guides are often provided to offer insights into the history, culture, and significance of the places visited during the tour.

  Ø  Yes, Pokhara offers a variety of adventure activities such as paragliding, zip-lining, trekking, and boating on Phewa Lake.

 Ø  Yes, you can witness breathtaking sunrise or sunset views from various viewpoints in Pokhara and Lumbini, offering unforgettable experiences.