Trip Name: Splendor of Nepal Trip Code: NCT · condition, and through meditation and teaching put an end to personal suffering, find true meaning of existence, and be truly happy

1 www.trekhimalayan.com

Itinerary in Detail

Day 01: Arrival to Kathmandu & transfer to hotel Arrival to the Tribhuwan International Airport. After immigration formalities you will be welcomed by

Trek Himalayan representative and transferred to your pre-booked Hotel Royal Singi (Deluxe). After

check in, you can either take a rest or hang around in the city depending on your interest. In the evening,

there will be a pre-trip discussion, introducing with your Tour guide. You will have an opportunity to ask

any questions related to the tour program. Overnight in hotel

Day 02: Kathmandu World Heritage sites tour. Overnight in Hotel Royal Singi Today after breakfast, we will start a guided sightseeing tour to historical and spiritual sites in Kathmandu.

Some of these landmarks are considered World Heritage Sites that include the historic Kathmandu Durbar

Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, Buddhists shrine (Buddhanath) and the famous 'Monkey

Temple' (Swayambhunath Stupa) which is one of the largest Stupas in the world. Overnight in hotel

Kathmandu Durbar Square and its surrounding is packed with multitude of temples, palaces and

the residence of living goddess-Kumari. Much of the Kathmandu city is now relatively modernized

by Nepalese standards; however its ancient spirit is still alive. The square is a thriving place where

local people come to congregate, to sell handicrafts, to worship or just to sit around together. It is

a very social place. When you visit, you will be first struck by the number of temples, all at close

proximity to each other. Each temple you will see in and around Kathmandu Durbar Square

represents some of the more powerful, all en compassing and popular Hindu Gods and Goddesses...

After Kathmandu Durbar Square we will take you to Pashupatinath temple that lies just 3 km to

the south. This is the place of pilgrimage for Hindus. Many Nepalese and Indian pay a visit to this

temple. In the Pashupatinath complex you will find a hive of temples, monuments dominated by

its devotion to God Shiva (in his Rejuvenating form) and a last resting place for many, a prelude to

death and perhaps the optimism of reincarnation.

Saddhus bearded men, with ash colored foreheads and simple robes- ascetics who have relinquished

everything- walk around the temples, some posing for photographs and money. Around the

labyrinth of temples and shrines, there are closed buildings: places where the sick and elderly wait,

many will be brought to the river within minutes of death, nowadays the river is little more than a

wide stream.

After Pashupatinath temple we head towards Bouddhanath, the world's biggest Stupa and a place

of pilgrimage for Buddhists, many still come from Tibet, India and Bhutan. Thousands of Tibetan

Trip Name: Splendor of Nepal Trip Code: NCT

Duration: 14 Days Departure: Customized-Luxury

Trek Grade: Easy Type: Fly In/Drive Out


refugees live here and around the Stupa many handcrafted shops selling Tibetan souvenirs and

trinkets as well as wonderful hand painted wall hangings (known as Thankas) by Buddhists monks.

The Stupa itself is so big then you can walk on it and many do the same. Hundreds of prayer flags

hang from twine stretched across the central tower and in the distance. On a clear day the golden

roofs of the surrounding temples can be seen framed by the Himalaya.

You can watch humbly dressed Tibetans circling the Stupa as an act of prayer. You might see some

Tibetans prostrating: sliding along on their stomachs and hands or spinning hand-held prayer

wheels in an act of meditation. Surrounding the Stupa are small Buddhists temples and monasteries.

After having lunch you will continue your day trip to Swoyambhunath Stupa which lies on the

top of a hill to the north. It is one of the most iconic and photographed symbols of Nepal. This

Stupa is a white domed Buddhist shrine or reliquary (a reliquary is a vessel in which holy objects

are stored) and buried inside it. Inside the solid white concrete dome are relics of a deceased high

Buddhist teacher or Lama. The 1,500 years old Stupa might contain a Lama\'s clothes, simple

possessions or even parts of the body or ashes. Many people from all over World visit this

pilgrimage shrine. What you are experiencing here is not only a shrine, but an architectural symbol

of the very essence of Buddhism and the path to enlightenment.

The Stupa is built in a symmetrical design which is meant not to a cosmic map or of the planets,

but of the Buddhist's mind's journey, through its own universe and into a perfect state, one of true

contentment and happiness- a nirvana. Buddhists believe that by following this path (the map of

the Stupa), one can remove oneself from human bondage, from the 'tyranny' of the human

condition, and through meditation and teaching put an end to personal suffering, find true meaning

of existence, and be truly happy and content.

On the way to Swoyambhunath Stupa you will see the monkeys and market vendors, hundreds of

colorful prayer flags fluttering gently in the wind. The breeze carries their prayers up into the

heavens. Because of the many monkeys Swoyambhunath Stupa is referred to as the Monkey's

temple.

After the tour we get back to our hotel and stay overnight.

Day 03: Fly to Pokhara & Lakeside walking tour/boating in the evening Today after breakfast, you will be transferred to domestic airport for the flight to Pokhara. It will be a

scenic flight to the enchanting valley of Pokhara which is considered the paradise on earth! Beautiful

mountains in the north side, clean and wide lakes in the middle of the city, green forest, friendly and warm

locals make your holidays more meaningful. Boating on Fewa Lake for one hour in the evening. Overnight

in Hotel (Temple Tree Resort & Spa – 3 Star)

Day 04: Drive to Phedi and 2 hrs trek to Dhampus cultural village.

After breakfast we will take a drive to Phedi , and 2hrs hike to one of the beautiful village called Dhampus

which is popular destination to explore the wild beauty of nature as well as typical Gurung culture and

experience true warm hospitality of the host people. Overnight in lodge (tea house) - Standard Comfortable


Day 05: Hike to Sarangkot to observe sunrise & sunset view as well as Himalayan mountain range. Early morning wake up, have breakfast and hike to Sarangkot. Walking through sparse villages, farm

terraces and short stretch of woods we reach to the Sarangkot hill after few hours of hike.

You enjoy the amazing sunsets on the Himalayas in the evening and sunrise (next morning), a scenery that

you will treasure for long. A close face to face view of a long range of Annapurna and other Himalayan

mountains greets us on reaching Sarangkot. Overnight in lodge

Day 06: Drive back to Pokhara and enjoy full day Pokhara sightseeing Upon arrival in Pokhara your sightseeing tour begins which cover all major places of tourist interest such

as Devi’s Fall (Natural Water Fall), Barahi Temple, Mahendra Cave, Bats Cave (Chamera Gupha)

and visit the underground Seti River Gorge and International Mountain Museum. Transfer to Hotel for

overnight stay.

Devi Falls (Natural Water Fall) The Devi Falls is situated on Siddhartha highway. The Devi Falls is a sink hole, where the Phewa

Lake drains into the Pardi Khola and disappears underground and emerges about 200 m away.

There are various legends about the area, and it is a frequently visited tourist spot. Locally known

as the Patala Chhango (Hell’s Fall), Devi’s Fall is a lovely waterfall. Legend has it that a trekker

named (Devin or David) was washed away by the Pardi Khola and mysteriously disappeared down

into an underground passage beneath the fall.

Barahi Temple The Barahi Temple is the most important monument in Pokhara. Built almost in the center of Pehwa

Lake, this two-storied pagoda is dedicated to the boar manifestation of Ajima, the protector’s deity

representing the female force Shakti

Mahendra Cave This cave attracts various visitors. This large limestone cave is locally known as the House of Bats.

This cave is full of stalactite and stalagmite formations. The exact size of the cave complex cannot

be decided. A famous geologist visited the cave, but could not cover all parts of the cave complex

or find an end to it, although he explored for two whole days.

Bat Cave (Chamera Gupha) This cave is located a little far from the Mahendra cave in the west .This cave was also discovered

by the owner of the land – a farmer 31 years ago.Though the entrance is quite narrow but the inner

part of the cave is wide enough. The images of the elephant tusk, gods and goddess have been

craved on the inner walls of the cave.

This cave is 150 meter long, 25feet high and of the shape of “U”. This cave is famous for the bats

and gives shelter to more than 15 thousand bats of different species.

Underground Seti River Flowing right through Pokhara city, the boisterous river runs completely underground at places.

Amazingly, at certain points the river appears hardly two meters wide. But its depth is quiet beyond

imagination, over 20 meters. A deep gorge is made by its powerful flow.


International Mountain Museum The International Mountain Museum is the home of mountaineers, adventurers and summiteers

worldwide. This museum has been opened recently to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the

first ascent of Everest by Hillary and Norgay. This museum is visited by many visitors. The

museum is set on landscaped grounds and divided into various areas of interest.

Day 07: Drive to Bandipur After breakfast we drive you to Bandipur, an ancient Newari town, situated on a hill top south of Dumre

on the Kathmandu -Pokhara highway. Bandipur is reached after 45 min drive from Dumre. This Bandipur

retains its age old cultural attributes. It still has its temples, shrines, holy caves and a Newari architecture

similar to the Kathmandu Valley. The ancient Newari town of Bandipur reflects the architecture richness

in its pagoda style roofs of each house, latticework windows and stone-paved streets. The houses are built

of bricks often with ornate windows and doorways. The roofs are of slate. A distinctive aspect of the Bazaar

is a covered veranda that extends through its entire length, from shop front to shop front. There are many

temples and caves in and around Bandipur.This beautiful rural town offers panoramic views of different

mountain peaks of the central Himalayas, including Jugal, Ganesh Himal, Langtang, Gorkha Himal,

Manaslu, Buddha Himal, Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Overnight in resort ( Mountain Resort)

Day 08: Excursion around Bandipur After breakfast you will visit to Magar village and Mukundeswari temple. After lunch you will explore

Siddha cave, recently discovered and probably the biggest cave in Asia. Overnight in Mountain Resort.

Day 09: Drive to Chitwan National Park After breakfast we will drive you to Chitwan National Park. On your arrival at the park you will be

transferred to Resort where you will be offered welcome drinks. After being refreshed the resort manager

will be brief you about the facilities of the resort and your program of the day. Thereafter, lunch, visit to

Tharu village and museum. Sun set tour in the evening, back to hotel for dinner. Overnight in Narayani

Safari- Jungle Resort.

Day 10: Full day jungle activities Wake up call, breakfast, canoeing, jungle walk, visit elephant breeding center. After lunch, elephant back

safari, evening walk, dinner and Tharu cultural show. Overnight in Narayani Safari- Jungle Resort

Day 11: Drive to Nagarkot Wake up call, bird watching tour, breakfast and departure to Nagarkot. Overnight in Country Villa Resort.

A beautiful hill resort, Nagarkot is situated 32 km east of Kathmandu at an altitude of 2175 m above the

sea level, is famous for the viewpoint of the Himalayan range, stretching from Dhaulagiri in the west and

Everest to the Kanchanjunga in the east. Nagarkot is also noted for sunrise and sunset viewpoint.

Day 12: Visit Changunarayan temple & Bhaktapur & Drive to Kathmandu After breakfast you will visit Changunarayan temple. The route to Changunarayan temple passes through

small villages and farmlands.

Changu Narayan Temple is one of the oldest temples in Kathmandu valley, came in existence in

the 4th century. The temple is adorned by some of the best specimen of stone, wood, and metal

craft in the valley. The temple stands as the epitome of culture, religion, history and faith of the

Kathmandu valley.


Then, we continue drive to another most popular medieval city of Bhaktapur that has still preserved

medieval arts, architecture, culture, and unique lifestyle till date. One is sure to feel like travelling

back into the past while walking along the Bhaktapur thoroughfares, squares and streets. Hotel

Royal Singi in Kathmandu

Day 13: Free day in Kathmandu

After breakfast and explore around the city or stock up on souvenirs. Hotel Royal Singi in Kathmandu

Day 14: Final Departure Today our airport representative will make a departure and transfer you from Kathmandu Airport to Board

International Flight for your final destination.

PHOTOGRAPHS (COPY RIGHTED)


SERVICE INCLUDES

International arrival/departure transfers

Pre-booked accommodation in standard (star rated) Hotel, Resorts on twin sharing B/B basis

during the trip

Guided Sightseeing tour with our English speaking escorting city guide in Kathmandu Valley &

Pokhara in a private vehicle

All land transportation in A/C private vehicle (Kathmandu-Pokhara-Chitwan-Nagarkoti-

Kathmandu)

Full board in Chitwan Jungle Safari including Accommodation on twin bed rooms, all meals

(breakfast, lunch, tea and dinner), all Jungle activities, Nature guide, all government taxes,

National Park entrance fees & transport

Breakfast at lodge (tea house) during Hike

Domestic Air Fare (Kathmandu-Pokhara) with tax including airport transfer

Accommodation, food, insurance, salary, for our guide and driver throughout the trip

All Monuments/National Park entry permits

SERVICE EXCLUDES

International air fare/airport tax

Nepal entry visa fees

Single supplement during entire trip

Note: Additional cost applies for single supplement

Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu, Pokhara , Nagarkot and on Hike except in Chitwan

Personal expenses such as telephone calls, alcoholic beverages, bottled drinks (including cold

drinks and mineral water/boiled water), laundry

Travel/Medical insurance

Personal gear

All expenses incurred in the event of early departure (evacuation fee, transport, extra hotel night,

food etc.)

Tips for local city Guides/Driver/Naturalist

Any other services not specified in the ‘Service Includes’

Type of Vehicle

Fully A/C Japanese Sedan – Car

Safety

We take full safety measures during the entire tours/treks.

Accommodation

Most of the accommodations in Kathmandu, Pokhara & Nagarkot are ultra-modern equipped. In

the treks (Dhampus, Sarangkot, Bandipur & Chitwan) they have Standard Lodge/Resorts with

basic facilities such as Hot water shower, Continental cuisine, and attached modern bathroom.


PHOTOGRAPHS (COPY RIGHTED)


General Information

Nepal Nepal is a small landlocked country of highly diverse and rich geography, culture, and religions.

The mountainous north has eight of the world's ten highest mountains, including Mount Everest.

It contains over 240 peaks more than 20,000 ft (6,096 m) above sea level. The fertile and humid

south is heavily urbanized. By some measures, it is a land of different arts and indigenous cultures

well preserved since time immemorial. Hindu and Buddhist shrines found in the country are

enriched with wood carving and bronzes, century’s old statues standing along the wayside and

three popular historic cities – Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Patan have preserved their medieval

splendor and architectural flavor till date.

Geography

Nepal is located in South Asia between China in the north and India in the south, east and west.

While the total land area is 147,181 sq. km including water area of the country that is 3,830 sq.

km. The geographical coordinates are 28°00′N 84°00′E. Nepal falls in the temperate zone north of

the Tropic of Cancer. Nepal’s ecological zones run east to west about 800 km along its Himalayan

axis, 150 to 250 km north to south, and are vertically intersected by the river systems. The country

can be divided into three main geographical regions: Himalayan region, mid hill region and Terai

region. The highest point in the country is Mt. Everest (8,848 m) while the lowest point is in the

Terai plains of Kechana Kalan in Jhapa (60 m). (Source NTB)

Climate

Climatic conditions of Nepal vary from one place to another in accordance with the geographical

features. In the north summers are cool and winters severe, while in south summers are tropical

and winters are mild. Nepal has namely five major seasons: spring, summer, monsoon, autumn

and winter.

Average temperatures and rainfall during peak summer and winter in three most popular

tourist areas:

Place Summer (May, June & July) Winter (Dec, Jan & Feb)

City (Max.oc) (Min.oc) Rain

(mm)

(Max.oc) (Min.oc) Rain (mm)

Kathamndu 31.6 20.0 312.0 19.5 2 15.4

Pokhara 32.7 21.7 829.7 20.3 7.7 26.3

Chitwan 34.0 26 404.0 24.1 8.3 13.8

Further details can be found at http://www.dhm.gov.np

http://toolserver.org/~geohack/geohack.php?pagename=Geography_of_Nepal&params=28_00_N_84_00_E_type:country

http://www.dnpwc.gov.np/


Flora & Fauna

Nepal possesses 2.80 percent plants of the world. Record from 2006 shows that Nepal has 6,391

flowering plant species, representing 1,590 genera and 231 families. Nepal’s share of flowering

plant species is 2.76 percent of the global total compared to earlier records of 2.36 percent. Nepal’s

share of pteriodophytes is 5.15 percent compared to earlier records of 4.45 percent.

There are 2,532 species of vascular plants represented by 1,034 genera and 199 families in the

protected sites. Some 130 endemic species are found in the protected sites. Similarly, 3.96 percent

mammals, 3.72 percent butterflies and 8.9 percent of birds of the world can be found in Nepal.

Wildlife of Nepal is officially classified into two main categories: common and protected. The

common category lists such species as common leopard, spotted deer, Himalayan Tahr, blue sheep

and others. These species are commonly seen in the wild. The protected species include 26

mammals, nine birds and three reptiles. These rare animals are confined to their prime habitats.

Kathmandu: Kathmandu Valley comprises the three ancient cities of Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur, which were once

independent states ruled by the Malla kings from the 12th to the 18th centuries. The three cities house seven

UNESCO World Heritage shrines which are together listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (Culture).

The valley is also home to hundreds of other exquisite monuments, sculptures, artistic temples and

magnificent art – reminders of the golden era in Nepal’s architecture. (Source NTB)

Nagarkot:

Nagarkot, located 32 kilometers east of Kathmandu, is one of the most scenic places in Bhaktapur

and is renowned for its

spectacular sunrise view

of the Himalayan range

when the weather is clear.

Visitors and locals are

often traveling to

Nagarkot from

Kathmandu to spend the

night so that they can be there for the breathtaking sunrise. (Sunset View from Nagarkot)

It also offers a spectacular view of the Kathmandu Valley and is described by visitors as a place

whose beauty endures throughout the year.

Chitwan:

Chitwan National Park is one of the best destinations for jungle safari located in Southern Nepal

200 km from the capital city Kathmandu. The Park covers an area of over 900 km and a natural

habitat for rare wild animals such as One- horned rhinos, Royal Bengal tigers and a wide range of

flora and fauna. Established in 1973, it is the oldest National Park in Nepal and listed in the World

Heritage Site in 1984. Once a royal hunting reserve, the Park has been a very popular destination

for visitors nowadays. Home to subtropical lowland jungles, lakes, and rivers, the Park is

surrounded by villages inhabited by Tharu, indigenous tribal people.


The park consists of a unique ecosystem, including the Churia hills, ox-bow lakes and the fold

plains of the Rapti, Reu and Narayani Rivers.

(Elephant bathing at Rapti River, Chitwan National Park)

Practical Information Nepal Visa:

All visitors except the Indian nationals must hold passport and valid visa. Visa can be obtained at the

Nepalese diplomatic missions and consulates abroad. Visa is also issued at the entry points. It can be

extended at the Department of Immigration, Bhrikutimandap in Kathmandu. Children under 10 years need

not pay any visa fee. People willing to get entry Visa at the airport or any of the land entry points are

required to fill a visa form with one passport size photograph.

Gratis visa for 30 days available only for tourists of SAARC countries

Multiple entry 15 days - US$ 25 or equivalent convertible currency



Tourist Visa Extension

Visa extension fee for 15 days or less is US $ 30 or equivalent convertible currency and visa

extension fee for more than 15 days is US$ 2 per day

Tourist visa can be extended for a maximum period of 150 days in a single visa year (January -

December). Note: Above Visa fee is subject to change without prior notice.

You can also apply for Nepalese Visa online at http://bit.ly/1qhSH31

Insurance:

Before joining a tour, we recommend you to take out a travel insurance which should cover cancellation,

medical expenses, etc. Please send us the following details such as your full name, policy number and the

insurance company’s 24 hour emergency contact number prior to departure. We also strongly recommend

that your policy must cover personal liability, flight/trip cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and

personal effects.

http://bit.ly/1qhSH31


Money Exchange

Currency exchange rates in Nepal often fluctuate. Please log on to the following link for the update:

http://www.nrb.org.np/fxmexchangerate.php. When changing money try to get a mix of denominations

(your guide will advise you on this). Keep smaller notes with you when on the trek or tour as it can be

difficult to change larger notes once out of the city.

Government Office Hours & Holidays

Sunday to Thursday: 1000hrs – 1700hrs (during summer)

Sunday to Thursday: 1000hrs – 1600hrs (during winter)

Friday: 1000hrs – 1500hrs.

Saturday: Holiday

You can find list of other national holidays in Nepal below;

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Nepal

Language

Nepali, written in the Devanagari script, is the official language of Nepal. However, most people living in

the city areas can understand and speak English fluently. Hindi language is widely understood across the

country.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Nepal?

Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu is the only international airport in Nepal. The national

flag carrier, Nepal Airlines, and other international airlines directly connect Kathmandu with major cities

around the world.

Via Land

All visitors coming to Nepal by land can enter through any of these entry points on the India- Nepal Border:

Pani Tanki | Kakarbhitta

Raxual | Birgunj

Sunauli | Belahiya

Rupaidiya | Nepalgunj

Mohana | Dhangadi

Banbasa | Mahendranagar, Gaddachauki and

Khasa,Liping | Tatopani

Overland tourists entering the country with their vehicles must possess an international carnet or complete

customs formalities.

What are needed to get a visa?

A valid passport and one passport size photo with a light background. Immigration Department has not

specified the size of the passport-size photo. Visa can be obtained only through payment of cash in the

following currency: Euro, Swiss Franc, Pound Sterling, US dollar, Australian dollar, Canadian dollar,

Hong-Kong dollar, Singapore dollar and Japanese Yen.

http://www.nrb.org.np/fxmexchangerate.php

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Nepal


Are there ATMS in Nepal?

There are ATMS in Kathmandu, Pokhara and other big cities in Nepal that accept AMERICAN

EXPRESS, VISA and MASTERCARD and many others.

Are credit cards accepted in Nepal?

Major hotels, restaurants and curio shops accept AMERICAN EXPRESS, VISA and MASTERCARD.

You can contact the banks for credit card services.

Is the international driving license accepted in Nepal?

Yes.

What inoculations are recommended before visiting Nepal?

Although specific immunization is not required to enter Nepal, it is; however, best to protect yourself

against diseases such hepatitis, meningitis and Japanese encephalitis. Malaria has been reported in the Terai

plains of Nepal, so take precautions against being bitten by mosquitoes. Please notify the authorities or the

hotel of any symptoms of bird or swine flu or any endemic.

Can I extend my Holidays?

Yes, you can. These are the few packages that may interest you;

White Water River Rafting Mountain Flight Meditation & Yoga/Spa Bungee Jump

For details please visit us at https://www.trekhimalayan.com

https://www.trekhimalayan.com/

Documents

Trip Name: Splendor of Nepal Trip Code: NCT · condition, and through meditation and teaching put an end to personal suffering, find true meaning of existence, and be truly happy