en
- Boutique
- 22-day trip
- From €5,525 p.p.
Nepal trip | Nepal Essence: culture, nature and mysticism
Get ready for an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Himalayas. Nepal, a country of breathtaking mountain landscapes, ancient temples and colourful culture, unfolds like a living picture book on this carefully curated tour. From the bustling streets of Kathmandu to the mystical tranquillity of the mountains in Mustang, from peaceful walks in the green hills around Pokhara to wild adventures in Chitwan National Park. Every day brings a new discovery. You’ll fly right across the Himalayas, trek along the flanks of the mighty Annapurna, meet hospitable villagers and come face to face with rhinos, elephants and perhaps even a Bengal tiger.
Along the way, you’ll enjoy charming accommodation, authentic experiences and spiritual moments, such as a sunrise ritual in a Buddhist monastery or a meeting with a Nepalese shaman. This journey is not merely a succession of sights, but an in-depth encounter with the soul of Nepal – raw, pure, welcoming and breathtakingly beautiful.
Travel programme
Travel overview
- Day 1 Flight to Nepal
- Day 2 Arrival in Kathmandu
- Day 3 Exploring Patan and an evening experience at
- Day 4 The medieval city of Bhaktapur
- Day 5 Free day
- Day 6 Enchanting flight to Pokhara
- Day 7 Flight through the Himalayas and local villages
- Day 8 – 9 The unspoilt surroundings of Jomsom
- Day 10 Return to Pokhara
- Day 11 Start of 2-day trek
- Day 12 Trek to Dhampus
- Day 13 Descent and relaxation in a hidden valley
- Day 14 Peace and quiet, nature and a taste of village life
- Day 15 Two-day rafting trip on the Seti River
- Days 16–18 Stay in the jungle of Chitwan National Park
- Day 19 From Chitwan back to Kathmandu
- Day 20 By flight to Mount Everest and the temples
- Day 21 Spiritual Kathmandu
- Day 22 Departure from Nepal
- Day 23 Arrival
Arrival Kathmandu
नेपालमा स्वागत छ (welcome to Nepal)! Upon arrival at the airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your driver, who will be waiting to take you to your hotel. Once you arrive at your hotel, you will check in at your accommodation in Kathmandu.
In the afternoon, you’ll visit the historic Durbar Square in Kathmandu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site full of beautiful temples and palaces. In the evening, you’ll embark on a culinary journey of discovery through the lively Thamel district, where you’ll sample the flavours of Nepalese cuisine.
Inclusief:
- Meet & Greet on arrival
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Visit to Durbar Square
- Evening a food tour in Thamel
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Patan discovery and evening experience at
Pashupatinath
Today you’ll discover Patan (Lalitpur), one of the oldest cities in the Kathmandu Valley, famous for its Newari architecture, vibrant arts scene and deep-rooted spiritual traditions. You’ll begin your exploration with a special meeting with the Kumari of Patan. You’ll then immerse yourself in history at Patan Durbar Square, where you’ll visit the impressive Palace and the Patan Museum. The magnificent Golden Temple (Hiranya Varna Mahavihar) is also on the itinerary. After a lunch break at a local restaurant, you’ll visit the unique ‘1,000 Buddha Faces Temple’.
You’ll round off the day with an unforgettable evening experience at Pashupatinath, where you’ll witness the atmospheric Aarti puja.
Inclusief:
- Visit to Patan including various sights
- Lunch at a local restaurant
- Evening experience at Pashupatinath
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
The medieval city of Bhaktapur
After breakfast, a fascinating visit to Bhaktapur is on the programme. This city is the best-preserved medieval city in the Kathmandu Valley and is known for its beautiful architecture and vibrant culture. You will stroll the historic streets and squares, admire the ancient temples and experience the unique atmosphere of this special place. After your exploration of Bhaktapur, you will be transferred to another hotel in Kathmandu from where you will enjoy stunning views.
Inclusief:
- Visit to Bhaktapur
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Free day
This day will be at leisure at your hotel. You can choose from several exciting activities offered by the resort, such as quads riding, ziplining, mountain biking or hiking through the beautiful surroundings. If you prefer to relax, you can also quietly enjoy the pool and the serene atmosphere of the resort. The choice is entirely yours to fill this day to your liking.
Inclusief:
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Enchanting flight to Pokhara
After a few impressive days in the bustling capital, Kathmandu, today you’ll take a short but breathtaking domestic flight to Pokhara, one of Nepal’s most picturesque and tranquil spots. During the flight (weather permitting), you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the Himalayas, with majestic peaks such as Annapurna and Machapuchare (Fishtail) in the background.
The rest of the day is yours to spend as you wish. Take a leisurely stroll along Lakeside Boulevard, discover colourful boutiques and cafés overlooking the water, and soak up the laid-back atmosphere that makes Pokhara so unique. Optionally, you can take a traditional boat trip on Lake Phewa, where you can admire the reflection of the mountain peaks in the calm waters.
Inclusief:
- Private transfer to the airport
- Kathmandu - Pokhara domestic flight
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Exclusief:
- Boat trip on Lake Phewa
Air travel through the Himalayas and local villages
Today you’ll take a spectacular flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, one of the most beautiful mountain flights in the world. As you fly through the rugged landscape of the Himalayas, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of towering mountain peaks, deep valleys and ancient villages.
Upon arrival in Jomsom, you’ll board a jeep for an unforgettable drive to the traditional village of Kagbeni, situated in the Lower Mustang region. This picturesque village exudes authentic Nepalese culture, with its narrow streets, ancient buildings and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. You will then continue on to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. Here, you can experience the unique blend of spiritual traditions and soak up the serene surroundings.
Inclusief:
- Private transfer to the airport
- Domestic flight Pokhara - Jomos
- Private transfer by jeep to your hotel
- En route visit to Kagbeni and Muktinath
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
The pristine surroundings of Jomsom
After visiting the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath, the descent begins to Jomsom, the bustling centre of the Lower Mustang Valley. Along the way, the landscape changes spectacularly: from arid high plains to a rougher mountain valley with jagged rock formations and views of the mighty Nilgiri. On the route, you’ll visit Lubra Village, one of the few villages where traditional Tibetan culture has remained unspoilt. Further on, you’ll visit Marpha, known as the ‘apple town of Mustang’. The whitewashed houses, wooden balconies and cobbled streets give the village a charming, almost Mediterranean feel. Be sure to sample the local apple brandy or a glass of fresh apple juice here – a true speciality of the region.
In the afternoon, you’ll arrive in Jomsom, where you’ll stay at the comfortable Om’s Home. This charming hotel offers warm hospitality and stunning views over the valley.
The next day, you’ll explore the area around Jomsom on foot. A beautiful walk takes you to the serene Dhamba Lake, a crystal-clear mountain lake nestled amongst rocks and high peaks. The silence, the fresh mountain air and the reflection of the snow-capped peaks in the water make this a particularly peaceful place. On the way back, you’ll visit the old town of Tini, where traditional village life is still very much alive. Stroll through the narrow streets, meet the locals and soak up the authentic atmosphere of the Mustang Valley.
Inclusief:
- Visit to Lubra Village and Marpha
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Hiking trip to Mountain Lake Dhamba lake and Tini (day 9)
- Overnight stays including breakfast
Back to Pokhara
In the morning, you will fly from Jomsom back to Pokhara, the vibrant city on the beautiful Phewa Lake, which is Nepal's outdoor mecca. In the mood for action? Go paragliding over shimmering Phewa Lake with views of Annapurna Peak, try canyoning past waterfalls or explore the hills by mountain bike. Or opt for a relaxing afternoon at Lakeside with a good book and mountain views - the interpretation is entirely up to you.
Inclusief:
- Private transfer to the airport
- Domestic flight Jomsom - Pokhara
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Start 2-day trekking
Today marks the start of a special two-day trek through the green hills of the Annapurna region. After a short transfer from Pokhara to the starting point of the trek, you’ll set off into the countryside accompanied by an experienced local guide.
The route takes you past dense forests, tranquil mountain streams and traditional villages in around three hours. Along the way, you’ll enjoy impressive views of the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. Your final destination today is the peaceful village of Majgaun (1,400 metres), where you’ll spend the night in a charming lodge surrounded by nature and tranquillity.
This walk is a perfect introduction to Nepalese mountain life without any strenuous climbs, offering pure enjoyment of the landscape, the fresh mountain air and the hospitality of the Gurung culture.
Inclusief:
- Transfer to the starting point
- Two-day trekking with experienced local guide
- Accommodation on a full board basis
Trekking to Dhampus
After a peaceful night in Majgaun, you’ll continue your trek today along the classic route towards Annapurna Base Camp. You’ll walk through the picturesque villages of Pathleket and Pothana, where daily mountain life unfolds before you in all its simplicity. After about three hours’ walk, you’ll reach the stunning Dhampus viewpoint, situated at an altitude of 1,550 metres. Here you’ll be treated to a breathtaking panorama of the entire Annapurna massif, with majestic peaks such as Machhapuchhre (the ‘Fishtail’) towering high above the clouds.
This spot offers not only spectacular views but also a sense of tranquillity. You’ll spend the night in a comfortable lodge with views of the mountains. A magical way to round off your trek.
Inclusief:
- Two-day trekking with experienced local guide
- Accommodation on a full board basis
Descending and relaxing in a hidden valley
After waking up to a stunning mountain view, you’ll set off on the final stage of the trek. In the morning, you’ll descend gently into the valley, passing once again through terraced fields, forests and small mountain hamlets. The landscape gradually changes from alpine to subtropical as you get closer to civilisation.
Near the village of Phedi, your private driver will be waiting to take you on to a peaceful location just outside Pokhara, surrounded by rice fields and hills. Here you’ll stay at an idyllic estate where tranquillity, nature and sustainability take centre stage. The perfect place to unwind after your trek.
Inclusief:
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Peace, nature and contact with village life
Today is all about relaxation and connecting with the surroundings. You’ll find yourself in a lush, rural valley just outside Pokhara, far away from the hustle and bustle. Here, you’ll have the chance to experience local village life up close. Have a chat with the locals, watch them work the land, or be surprised by a spontaneous invitation for a cup of tea.
If you fancy a bit of exercise, you can take a walk to the impressive World Peace Pagoda. This white stupa, perched high on a ridge, offers panoramic views over Lake Phewa and the Himalayan peaks in the distance.
Inclusief:
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Two-day rafting on the Seti River
A new adventure awaits you today. You’ll leave the hills of Pokhara behind and set off on a two-day rafting trip down the Seti River towards Chitwan. The Seti is perfect for anyone looking for a combination of adventure and relaxation. The river offers a number of gentle rapids interspersed with calm stretches, allowing you to fully enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings.
During the trip, you’ll float through green valleys, past impressive gorges and quiet beaches. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to spot rare birds, monkeys or other wildlife in the lush landscape. In the evening, you’ll set up camp on the riverbank. You’ll spend the night at a riverside beach campsite, where you’ll dine under the starry sky and round off the day by the campfire.
Inclusief:
- Two-day rafting adventure
- Accommodation on a full board basis
Staying in the jungle of Chitwan National Park
After your rafting adventure, you’ll continue your journey towards the vast jungle of Chitwan. On arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed by the team at your lodge in Meghauli Serai. For the next few nights, you’ll be staying in the heart of nature, in a unique location on the riverbank.
During your stay in Chitwan, you’ll experience the national park’s rich wildlife up close. You’ll take part in various jungle activities, including a boat safari on the river where you can spot crocodiles and exotic waterbirds. On a jeep safari, you’ll venture deeper into the park, with the chance to see rhinos, deer, monkeys and, with a bit of luck, even the Bengal tiger. A jungle walk is also on the programme. An immersive experience where you’ll explore the jungle at a leisurely pace, accompanied by an experienced guide.
You’ll also visit the Tharu village, where you’ll learn about the culture and traditions of this indigenous people. In between activities, there’s also time to relax. Highly recommended: hop on one of the bikes provided and explore the surroundings at your own pace. The peaceful villages and rice fields around Meghauli provide the perfect backdrop for a short cycle ride.
Inclusief:
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Full-board nights including boat safari with choice of breakfast or sundowner, jeep safari and jungle walk or village visit
From Chitwan back to Kathmandu
You say goodbye to the jungle and travel by flight back to Kathmandu. After arriving in the bustling capital, enjoy a relaxing afternoon or evening. Your stay is at the comfortable Shambaling Boutique Hotel, located in the lively Boudhanath area, close to the famous Boudhanath Stupa. Here you will experience the spiritual atmosphere of Kathmandu in a stylish and peaceful setting.
Inclusief:
- Private transfer to the airport
- Domestic flight Chitwan - Kathmandu
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
By flight to Mount Everest and temples
Start the day with a spectacular mountain flight to Mount Everest. From the aeroplane, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the world’s highest mountain and the impressive Himalayan range. An unforgettable experience!
After this impressive flight, you’ll visit two of Kathmandu’s most important stupas: the Monkey Temple (Swayambhunath), a sacred site with stunning views over the city and the famous monkey sanctuary, and then the Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest and most impressive Buddhist stupas in the world. Here you can soak up the serene atmosphere and observe the rituals of the pilgrims.
Inclusief:
- Flight to Mount Everest
- Visit to Swayambhunath temple and Boudhanath
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Spiritual Kathmandu
Early in the morning, at 5 am, you’ll have the special opportunity to attend a puja at the serene Kopan nunnery. During this intimate ceremony, the nuns’ soft, melodious chants fill the space as they rhythmically recite their prayers and mantras. The convent is also the spiritual home of Nun Ani Choying, also known as Nepal’s ‘Singing Nun’. Her enchanting singing, deeply rooted in Buddhist mantras and traditional songs, offers a unique and inspiring experience. This morning ceremony is a wonderful moment of tranquillity, reflection and connection with the Buddhist tradition. A special and unforgettable start to your day.
The rest of the day is yours to spend as you wish, entirely according to your own interests. There are various workshops and activities on offer, such as: making your own traditional Kukri knife during a workshop, learning to cook momos, the popular Nepalese dumplings, visiting a shaman to receive a blessing, or taking part in a Thangka painting workshop, where you’ll learn the intricate techniques of this traditional Tibetan painting style.
Inclusief:
- Attending puja at Kopan nunnery
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Accommodations
Nepali Ghar Hotel
Nepali Ghar Hotel is located in the central tourist hub of Thamel, near the Garden of Dreams, Ason Market and Durbar Marg. The rooms and suites are comfortable, spacious and elegantly furnished and equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, TVs, tea and coffee making facilities and private bathrooms. You can enjoy a...
Nepali Ghar Hotel is located in the central tourist hub of Thamel, near the Garden of Dreams, Ason Market and Durbar Marg. The rooms and suites are comfortable, spacious and elegantly furnished and equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, TVs, tea and coffee making facilities and private bathrooms. You can enjoy dinner at the hotel's restaurant, which serves delicious Nepali dishes, or relax with a drink from the bar. Other amenities and services include outdoor dining, a fitness centre, a meditation room, conference facilities and a front desk.
Your stay: 2 nights
The Terraces Resort and Spa
Located atop a ridge on the southern edge of Kathmandu Valley, The Terraces Resort and Spa offers guests sweeping views of the Himalayas and Kathmandu Valley. The comfortable, spacious rooms and suites are beautifully decorated and feature floor-to-ceiling windows, air conditioning, TVs,...
Located atop a ridge on the southern edge of Kathmandu Valley, The Terraces Resort and Spa offers guests sweeping views of the Himalayas and Kathmandu Valley. The comfortable, spacious rooms and suites are beautifully decorated and feature floor-to-ceiling windows, air conditioning, TVs, sound systems, minibars, private bathrooms and terraces with elegant Balinese wooden furniture. The suites have impressive space, interior lounges, bars and outdoor Jacuzzis. Guests can dine at the in-house restaurant with tempting Nepali, Indian, Western and Mediterranean dishes or relax with a refreshing drink from the bar. Additional amenities and services include an infinity pool, a terrace with spectacular views, a gym, a spa, yoga and event facilities. Guests can enjoy various activities, including hiking, cycling and dirt bike trails around the property, as well as village tours and helicopter flights to the iconic Everest Base Camp.
Your stay: 2 nights
Temple Tree Resort & Spa
Temple Tree Resort & Spa is a boutique hotel that combines western standards with the distinctive architecture and culture of the western Himalayas in Nepal. Named after the fragrant temple plant frangipani found here, the atmosphere is one of peaceful relaxation.
Temple Tree is located in Lake Fewa in the...
Temple Tree Resort & Spa is a boutique hotel that combines western standards with the distinctive architecture and culture of the western Himalayas in Nepal. Named after the fragrant temple plant frangipani found here, the atmosphere is one of peaceful relaxation.
Located in Fewa Lake in the Pokhara Valley, Temple Tree is surrounded by the foothills and majestic peaks of the Annapurna mountain range. The air is refreshingly clean and the subtropical climate pleasantly warm.
The resort is located in the centre of Lakeside, in an area called Gaurighat, the only stretch of Lakeside with a full view of the lake and the Himalayas.
Temple Tree consists of individual two-storey cottages, finished in hand-carved stone and featuring beautifully decorated wooden posts and pillars. Private balconies overlook a beautiful garden, centred around an ancient tree formed from three interlocking trunks.
Your stay: 1 night
Lo Mustang Himalayan Resort
Lo Mustang Himalayan Resort, located in Nepal's serene Muktinath region, offers a tranquil retreat amidst the majestic Himalayas. The resort features a variety of rooms with modern amenities such as air conditioning, TVs and private bathrooms. Guests can make use of...
Lo Mustang Himalayan Resort, located in Nepal's serene Muktinath region, offers a tranquil retreat amidst the majestic Himalayas. The resort features a variety of rooms with modern amenities such as air conditioning, TVs and private bathrooms. Guests can enjoy facilities such as a restaurant, Wi-Fi and parking. Activities available include exploring the Muktinath temple.
Your stay: 1 night
Oms Home, Jomsom
Oms Home is located in Jomson, Nepal. The hotel features comfortably furnished rooms with modern amenities such as Wi-Fi, a sitting area and a private bathroom. Guests can enjoy local specialities in the hotel's dining room. Other facilities and services include a bar, a...
Oms Home is located in Jomson, Nepal. The hotel features comfortably furnished rooms with modern amenities such as Wi-Fi, a sitting area and a private bathroom. Guests can enjoy local specialities in the hotel's dining room. Other facilities and services include a bar, a 24-hour front desk and parking.
Your stay: 2 nights
Temple Tree Resort & Spa
Temple Tree Resort & Spa is a boutique hotel that combines western standards with the distinctive architecture and culture of the western Himalayas in Nepal. Named after the fragrant temple plant frangipani found here, the atmosphere is one of peaceful relaxation.
Temple Tree is located in Lake Fewa in the...
Temple Tree Resort & Spa is a boutique hotel that combines western standards with the distinctive architecture and culture of the western Himalayas in Nepal. Named after the fragrant temple plant frangipani found here, the atmosphere is one of peaceful relaxation.
Located in Fewa Lake in the Pokhara Valley, Temple Tree is surrounded by the foothills and majestic peaks of the Annapurna mountain range. The air is refreshingly clean and the subtropical climate pleasantly warm.
The resort is located in the centre of Lakeside, in an area called Gaurighat, the only stretch of Lakeside with a full view of the lake and the Himalayas.
Temple Tree consists of individual two-storey cottages, finished in hand-carved stone and featuring beautifully decorated wooden posts and pillars. Private balconies overlook a beautiful garden, centred around an ancient tree formed from three interlocking trunks.
Your stay: 1 night
Gurung Lodge
Reminiscent of an old tea plantation, the Gurung lodge consists of a handful of traditional Gurung houses spread across a well-tended garden, on the outskirts of Majhgaon village. It's a short drive from Pokhara to the nearest road, followed by an hour-long climb. But at an altitude of 1,400 metres, the real...
Reminiscent of an old tea plantation, the Gurung lodge consists of a handful of traditional Gurung houses spread across a well-tended garden, on the outskirts of Majhgaon village. It's a short drive from Pokhara to the nearest road, followed by an hour-long climb. But at 1,400 metres, the real attraction is the amazing views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
There are a total of 11 neat and well-appointed guest rooms, all with high ceilings, arched windows, and very nice attached bathrooms (a rarity in these parts). Showers have plenty of hot water. To beat the night chill, down jackets, warm hats, pitchers and gloves are provided.
A large fire is lit in the warm and distinctive main room, a hearty meal is prepared on a long wooden dining table - typical international cuisine - and after dinner, musical instruments emerge, or just a spoon and a tray, as the guides entertain guests with Nepali music. The atmosphere is very convivial.
Your stay: 1 night
Basantha Lodge
What the Basanta lodge lacks in scale, it makes up for with spectacular views. On a clear day, the Phedi and Mardi valleys are spread out before you, along with Annapurna 1,2,3,4 and South, and the nearest and most impressive of the mountain range; Machapuchare - Fishtail Mountain.
Eight bright rooms at...
What the Basanta lodge lacks in scale, it makes up for with spectacular views. On a clear day, the Phedi and Mardi valleys are spread out before you, along with Annapurna 1,2,3,4 and South, and the nearest and most impressive of the mountain range; Machapuchare - Fishtail Mountain.
Eight bright rooms in a row overlook the Annapurna Range with the fantastic panoramic views. You will find stone floors decorated with Nepalese rugs, blankets and artworks. The well-designed en suite bathroom is solar powered and there is hot running water. Little details, like the cosy slippers and coats you can snuggle into during the cooler hours, add to the comfort.
Comprising rooms, a restaurant, a bar and a beautifully landscaped garden terrace, Basanta Lodge feels like a secret on a mountainside. There is a true retreat atmosphere here, where simple pleasures and natural surroundings take centre stage. During Happy Hour, guests gather on the grassy terrace for drinks and foot massages as the sun sets over the mountains. They then head to the cosy dining room with crackling fire and a small bar for dinner.
Your stay: 1 night
The Pavilions Himalayas
The boutique resort The Pavilions Himalayas is located in a valley near Phewa Lake near Pokhara. Surrounded by farmland, forested hills and a mountain-fed river are the resort's 15 luxury eco-friendly villas.
Villas are equipped with free Wi-Fi, a minibar, free tea/coffee,...
The boutique resort The Pavilions Himalayas is located in a valley near Phewa Lake near Pokhara. Surrounded by farmland, forested hills and a mountain-fed river are the resort's 15 luxury eco-friendly villas.
Villas are equipped with free Wi-Fi, a minibar, free tea/coffee, a private bathroom, a flat-screen TV and a daily breakfast. Guests can also enjoy delicious Nepali dishes at the restaurant. There is also an on-site spa where guests can enjoy a wide range of relaxing treatments.
Your stay: 2 nights
Seti River Camp
Thrilling rafting trips and restful moments in rustic and relaxing accommodations await travellers at the remote riverside camp in the verdant Nepalese forest near Pokhara. The only way to reach this river camp is via a 2.5-hour rafting trip, down a slope to the rapids,...
Thrilling rafting trips and restful moments in rustic and relaxing accommodations await travellers at the remote riverside camp in the verdant Nepalese forest near Pokhara. The only way to reach this river camp is via a 2.5-hour rafting trip, down a slope to the rapids, suitable for all ages.
Your stay: 1 night
Shambaling Boutique Hotel
Set in grounds with beautiful gardens, Shambaling Boutique Hotel is housed in a charming, renovated 1970s house built in Tibetan style. There are 30 cosy rooms and free Wi-Fi is available in public areas. The private bathroom is equipped with a hairdryer and homemade soap and...
Set in grounds with beautiful gardens, Shambaling Boutique Hotel is housed in a charming, renovated 1970s house built in Tibetan style. There are 30 cosy rooms and free Wi-Fi is available in public areas. The private bathroom is equipped with a hairdryer and homemade soap and shampoo. Shambaling Boutique Hotel is 8 kilometres from Kathmandu Airport and a 20-minute drive from Kathmandu Valley. The iconic Bouddha Stupa is just 1 kilometre away and Pashupatinath Temple is 4 kilometres from the hotel. Guests can enjoy local specialities at the Lungta Restaurant and Lingka Garden Restaurant, but they may also have international dishes.
Your stay: 3 nights
Experiences
Visit to Bhaktapur
Bhaktapur is the third largest city in the Kathmandu Valley, and of the three nmog the best preserved. Here, you will travel back in time for a while: narrow streets where you can still see many cottage industries in the form of smithies, woodcarving workshops, sewing workshops, etc. Bhaktapur is known for its sophisticated wood carvings, which you...
Bhaktapur is the third largest city in the Kathmandu Valley, and of the three nmog the best preserved. Here, you will travel back in time for a while: narrow streets where you can still see many cottage industries in the form of smithies, woodcarving workshops, sewing workshops, etc. Bhaktapur is known for its refined carvings, which you can see in the houses and buildings around the windows and along the eaves. It gives the city a distinctly authentic look. Bhaktapur also has its Durbar Square, with schittrende temples, culminating in the 5-storey Nyatapola pagoda, the highest temple in the country.
Visit Boudhanath
Boudhanath is one of the famous stupas (Buddhist prayer towers) found in the Kathmandu Valley. The temple is typical of Kathmandu: the bell-shaped tower is whitewashed and features a distinctive square, earth-coloured tower from which piercing eyes gaze out towards the four cardinal directions. You can visit this…
Boudhanath is one of the famous stupas (Buddhist prayer towers) found in the Kathmandu Valley. The temple is typical of Kathmandu: the bell-shaped tower is whitewashed and features a distinctive square, golden-coloured tower from which piercing eyes gaze out towards the four cardinal directions. You will visit this monument with your private guide, spin the prayer wheels and learn about the temple’s unique religious background.
Destinations
Jomsom
Jomsom is an idyllic town at the foot of Nepal's breathtaking Annapurna Mountains, at the beginning of the magnificent Kali Gandaki River Valley. Surrounded by awe-inspiring snow giants, fertile farmlands and glassy lakes, this is an essential destination for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers. It serves as a base for several phenomenal trekking routes (the Jomsom-Muktinath Trek is a top choice), as well as an array of exciting adrenaline sports. The area is rich in cultural heritage - be sure to visit the fascinating Mustang Eco-Museum, with exhibitions on Tibetan herbal medicine, and the Kagchode Thubten Sampheling Gompa in Kagbeni, an impressive Sakyapa monastery full of masks, trumpets and ancient texts. Sights nearby include the beautiful Dhumba Lake and the apple orchards in Marpha.
Mount Everest
The astonishing beauty of the world's highest mountain needs little introduction. Mountaineers consider it the holy grail of all peaks and the ultimate test of their strength and determination. Located in the heart of the Himalayas, on the border of Nepal and Tibet. There are two tourist base camps below the snow line - one on the Nepali side and one on the Tibetan side. Approaching the summit from the Southeast Ridge in Nepal is more popular and easier than attempting it from Tibet. Whether you are a professional mountaineer or not a trip to this breathtakingly vast area is sure to be one of the most special experiences of your life.
Kathmandu
Nepal's capital is set in a beautiful setting amid snow-capped mountain peaks with a very friendly population, a number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a host of ornate stone temples hundreds of years old. The city can easily be seen as a big open-air museum, as there are particularly many ancient temples, squares and royal palaces to admire. Some highlights include a visit to Durbar Square, the central square with magnificent 12th-century Hindu temples, Kumari Bahal (the house of the living goddess), and the sacred Buddhist Swayambhunath Stupa. You visit the latter at sunset, when the last rays of the sun set the white monument in a magical glow.
Nepal
Pokhara
Pokhara, Nepal’s second-largest city, lies on the shores of Lake Phewa in the central region of the country. It is often referred to as the ‘adventure and leisure capital of Nepal’ and is known as the gateway to the Annapurna Circuit. Pokhara is a popular hub with plenty to see and do. The range of activities on offer is almost overwhelming, with lakes and waterfalls to admire; yoga, reiki and meditation classes to attend; caves (such as Mahendra) to explore; boating, canoeing and white-water rafting on the waterways around the lake to enjoy; and a number of challenging hikes to test your fitness, with Sarangkot being particularly rewarding. Meanwhile, serious trekkers can access Annapurna Base Camp from Pokhara, the first stop on a number of impressive trails through the spectacular mountains.
As well as the stunning mountains, Pokhara is also home to Phewa Lake, the second-largest lake in Nepal and a popular destination. Here, you can hire a boat (with or without a rower) to explore the lake, and from the water you’ll have a magnificent view of the mountains. What’s more, it’s great fun to go for a walk or a cycle along Phewa Lake. The eastern shore, known as Lakeside or Baidam, is one of Pokhara’s most touristy neighbourhoods and the area with the most hotels, restaurants and (craft) shops. The Barahi Temple, the most important religious monument in Pokhara, is situated in the middle of Phewa Lake.
Annapurna
The Annapurna massif, situated in Gandaki Province in north-central Nepal, forms part of the Nepalese Himalayas and is bounded by the Kali Gandaki Gorge to the west, the Marshyangdi River to the north and east, and the Pokhara Valley to the south. This world-class trekking destination comprises nine separate peaks spread over a distance of 55 km and is renowned for its challenging trails. Undaunted travellers, however, are rewarded with awe-inspiring views of rugged purple-blue mountains, mist-shrouded valleys and spectacular snow-capped peaks.
The popular Annapurna Circuit trek circles the Annapurna Range, whilst the Kaligandaki River Valley trek descends into the world’s deepest valley. The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek offers a dip in the hot springs of Jhinu Danda, and the more manageable Poon Hill Trek winds through picturesque villages and dense jungles before reaching an altitude of 3,200 metres.
Chitwan National Park
Chitwan National Park has a history spanning more than three decades in park management and a wealth of experience in resolving conflicts between the park and local communities. It is a rich nature reserve in the Terai, in the subtropical south of Nepal. The nature park is renowned for its great diversity of animals and plants … It is home to more than 50 species of mammals and around 350 species of birds, including birds of paradise, the slender-billed vulture, the Bengal vulture, the Javan marabou and the greater river eagle. During a tour of the park, you can spot various species of monkeys, sloth bears, Indian elephants, crocodiles and leopards, whilst the endangered Indian rhinos and Bengal tigers can also be found here … a wonderful experience for nature and wildlife lovers! A few years ago, the number of Indian rhinos rose to 600 (the second-largest population in the world) and the number of Bengal tigers increased to 125 adult animals. The creation of the park has marked a major step forward in saving the rhinos and tigers threatened with extinction … and since they have been protected, the populations of these animals have also improved significantly.
Dhampus
Dhampus is a small village perched high on a hill in the Gandaki region in north central Nepal. This peaceful village serves as a popular overnight stop for trekkers exploring the remarkable mountains of the Annapurna region. The village offers spectacular views of the southern peaks of the Annapurna and Mt Machhapuchhare, also known as Fishtail Mountain. Apart from the incredible views, Dhampus offers a wonderfully authentic cultural experience. Visitors get a chance to interact with the ethnic Gurung people, who have lived like their ancestors for centuries.
Nepal trip | Nepal Essence: culture, nature and mysticism
We offer the described trip from €5,525 per person.
The tour price is indicative and is subject to factors including availability and travel dates.
Included
• Domestic flights as mentioned in the ‘itinerary’, including hold luggage
• Accommodation in excellent and distinctive lodges and hotels
• All meals as mentioned in the ‘itinerary’
• All necessary private transfers as mentioned
• All excursions as mentioned in the ‘itinerary’, including an evening experience at Pashupatinath, a walking tour, a multi-day trek and a flight to Mount Everest
• Entrance fees to national parks for planned excursions
• Meet & Greet on arrival
• National Geographic travel guide or similar
• Booking fees (worth €50)
Positive impact of your trip:
• Contribution of €50 per person towards a positive impact via the Avila Foundation
• Lunch at a local restaurant
Not included
• Intercontinental flights
• Visa fees for Nepal
• Room category upgrade
• Travel and/or cancellation insurance
• Seat reservations
• Personal expenses/tips
• Meals not specified and optional excursions
• Contribution to the Calamity Fund (€2.50 per booking)
• SGR contribution (€5 per person)