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Cultural Taste and Himalayan View Tour

  • 8 Nights/9 Days
  • All around the year
Experience the rich and diverse culture of Nepal on a transformative cultural tour. Visit UNESCO World Heritage sites, live with a traditional Nepali family, and meet with local artisans and farmers. This tour promises an authentic cultural encounter, allowing participants to live with a traditional Nepali family in a remote location. Nepal's multi-cultural, multilingual, and multi-ethnic state makes it the perfect destination for this transformative experience, offering a plethora of diverse people and their fascinating cultures to explore and appreciate.

Highlights

  • Moderate
  • 8 Nights/9 Days
  • All around the year
  • Sightseeing, Boating, Short hiking & Rickshaw ride.
  • Hotel
  • Private Vehicle
  • Tour


Outline Itinerary

  • Day 1 Kathmandu Arrival - 1400 m altitude / Drive duration: 30 minutes
  • Day 2 Sightseeing at UNESCO Heritage sites in Kathmandu valley: Patan Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, Boudha
  • Day 3 Drive to Changunarayan - 1600 m altitude / Drive duration: 1 hours / Hike to Nagarkot 2175m altitude
  • Day 4 Sunrise view and drive back to Kathmandu / Drive duration: 1 and half hours / Enroute visit the medieval town Bhaktapur
  • Day 5 Drive to Pokhara 900m altitude / Drive duration: 6 to 7 hours / Boating at Phewa Lake & visit Tal Barahi temple
  • Day 6 Drive to Hemja 1526m altitude / Drive duration 45 minutes / Start trek to Astam Village 1600 m altitude / Walking hours: 2 hours
  • Day 7 Trek to Dhampus village a small Gurung Village 1650m altitude / Drive duration: 3 to 4 hours / Walking hours: 3-4 hours
  • Day 8 Drive back to Kathmandu / Drive duration: 6 to 7 hours drive / Rickshaw ride through traditional alleys of Kathmandu
  • Day 9 Departure

Includes

Cost Includes of the above program:
1. Transport in Private vehicle with A/C:
• Airport transfers
• One full day sightseeing in Kathmandu
• Aarati at Pashupatinath temple
• Drive to Changunarayan & hike to Nagarkot
• Transfer from Nagarkot to Kathmandu
• Bhaktapur Sightseeing
• Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu transfer
• Transfer to Hemja
• Transfer from Phedi to Pokhara
• Rickshaw ride in the traditional market of Kathmandu

2. Accommodations:
• Kathmandu (4Ns):
• Nagarkot (1Ns):
• Pokhara (2Ns):
• Astam Village (1N):

3. Meals:
• All breakfasts
• Lunches: 2 lunch during trekking (at Annapurna Eco Village & Dhampus)
• Dinners: 1 dinner in Annapurna Eco Village

4. Guide:
• A representative from Aarya Village Travel for arrival and departure assistance
• An experienced English Speaking guide throughout the trip

5. Taxes and Service Charges:
• All Government taxes, service charges

Excludes

Cost Excludes of the above program:
1. International Airfare, Nepal VISA Fees ($30 per person), Excess baggage charge in Domestic flight, Travel Insurance
2. Sightseeing not listed in the itinerary
3. The entrance fee during sightseeing
4. Meals not listed in the itinerary
5. Gratuities, tips to guides, drivers, bellboys, etc
6. Personal expenses such as laundry, drink, fax, telephone call, optional activities, etc
7. Payment Transfer Charge
8. Hotels check out as per the hotel rules.
9. Any extra expenses incurred from flight cancellation or delay, sudden price escalations in hotels, transport, flight or any other items, any form of rescue

Detail Itinerary

1Day 1 - Kathmandu Arrival - 1400 m altitude / Drive duration: 30 minutes

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport at Kathmandu, you will be met, assisted and transferred to your hotel by our representative. Welcome drinks will be served on arrival at your hotel and you will be briefed about your tour program by one of our representatives from Aarya Village Travel.

 Kathmandu Arrival - 1400 m altitude / Drive duration: 30 minutes
 Kathmandu Arrival - 1400 m altitude / Drive duration: 30 minutes
2Day 2 - Sightseeing at UNESCO Heritage sites in Kathmandu valley: Patan Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, Boudha

After Breakfast, start full day sightseeing at UNESCO Heritage sites; Sightseeing at Patan Durbar Square can be a very unique experience for visitors as they witness a distinct place for arts and architecture that is reflected on each temple, monument, and palace building that were mostly built during the Malla period between the 16th to 18th centuries.

From there, the tour is directed towards Boudhanath, the largest Buddhist stupa which is also the center of faith for local as well as international Buddhists. One might be able to explore Buddhist art and cultural heritage influenced by Tibetan culture to some extent.

Then onward, the tour is headed towards Swayambhunath - A Monkey Temple from where you can see the magnificent views of Kathmandu Valley. The stupa consists of a dome at the base representing the entire world. The painted eyes of Buddha represent wisdom and compassion. A curly symbol, symbolizing the nose represents the unity of all things existing in the world. Prayer wheels surround the whole dome.

In the evening drive to Pashupatinath Temple, a famous, sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is located on the banks of the Bagmati River. Dating back to the 5th century. While the main temple interior is off-limits to non-Hindus there is a lot to experience in the surrounding area. Legend says that whoever comes here to worship Shiva will be reborn as an animal. Pashupatinath is a considerable complex of temples, ashrams, with images and inscriptions dating back centuries. In the evening observe an Aarati (celebration with lights) at the Bank of Bagmati River.

Sightseeing at UNESCO Heritage sites in Kathmandu valley: Patan Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, Boudha
Sightseeing at UNESCO Heritage sites in Kathmandu valley: Patan Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, Boudha
3Day 3 - Drive to Changunarayan - 1600 m altitude / Drive duration: 1 hours / Hike to Nagarkot 2175m altitude

After breakfast head towards Changunarayan temple. The oldest temple in Kathmandu, dating back to the 4th century. The temple is adorned with some of the most beautiful architecture and sculptures of stone, wood, and metal. It is located on a scenic hilltop known as Changu or Dolagiri. In the municipality of Bhaktapur. 7 miles or 12 km east of Kathmandu and a few miles north of Bhaktapur city. This shrine is dedicated to Lord Visnu and held in special reverence by Hindus.

From there we walk to Nagarkot which takes around 2 and a half hour hours. This is a vantage point for panoramic Himalayan scenery as well as unobstructed sunrise and sunset views. We can also see the captivating landscapes including Kathmandu Valley.
Overnight at Nagarkot

Drive to Changunarayan - 1600 m altitude / Drive duration: 1 hours / Hike to Nagarkot 2175m altitude
Drive to Changunarayan - 1600 m altitude / Drive duration: 1 hours / Hike to Nagarkot 2175m altitude
4Day 4 - Sunrise view and drive back to Kathmandu / Drive duration: 1 and half hours / Enroute visit the medieval town Bhaktapur

Early in the morning enjoy the sunrise view over the major Himalayan Mountains (Manaslu range, Ganesh Himal Range, Langtang, Jugal Range, Rolwaling Range, Everest Range, and Number Range) of Nepal from your hotel. After Breakfast drive for a village exploration tour in Kathmandu. Visit Bhaktapur en route. Bhaktapur a living museum of medieval art and architecture, is a unique old town famously known as the "city of devotees" as this landmark has a great influence over religion, culture, and tantrism. It is a collection of pagodas and shikhara-style temples assembled around a fifty-five window palace of brick and wood. The Durbar square is one of the most charming architectural showpieces. Rest of the day is free on your own.

Sunrise view and drive back to Kathmandu / Drive duration: 1 and half hours / Enroute visit the medieval town Bhaktapur
Sunrise view and drive back to Kathmandu / Drive duration: 1 and half hours / Enroute visit the medieval town Bhaktapur
5Day 5 - Drive to Pokhara 900m altitude / Drive duration: 6 to 7 hours / Boating at Phewa Lake & visit Tal Barahi temple

Early Morning after breakfast at the hotel, we drive (approximately 6-7 hours) to Pokhara- the "City of Lakes". Also known as the gateway to the Himalayas, Pokhara offers stunning views of the Himalayas and has several beautiful lakes, the most popular is the Fewa Taal where you can see the clear reflection of Fishtail Mountain on calm days. Here you can also indulge in some adventurous day activities.

Today try out some boating at Phewa Lake for about an hour, visit Tal Barahi temple while boating. Tal Barahi Temple, situated in the middle of the lake on an island on the southeast section, also known as Lake Temple, is a two-story pagoda temple located in the Kaski District of the Gandaki Zone in western Nepal. It is a Hindu temple of the Goddess Durga, the protector of gods.

Drive to Pokhara 900m altitude / Drive duration: 6 to 7 hours / Boating at Phewa Lake & visit Tal Barahi temple
Drive to Pokhara 900m altitude / Drive duration: 6 to 7 hours / Boating at Phewa Lake & visit Tal Barahi temple
6Day 6 - Drive to Hemja 1526m altitude / Drive duration 45 minutes / Start trek to Astam Village 1600 m altitude / Walking hours: 2 hours

Your guide will meet you at your hotel in Pokhara and then drive to Hemja (approx. 35 minutes).

Then start your trek slowly to Astam village through scenic villages and forests. It will take approx. 2 hours to reach the Village. Astam is a picturesque village surrounded by cultivated fields and green forests with amazing mountain views. We will have lunch and then explore Astam village. Dinner and overnight stay at a guest house in Astam.

Drive to Hemja 1526m altitude / Drive duration 45 minutes / Start trek to Astam Village 1600 m altitude / Walking hours: 2 hours
Drive to Hemja 1526m altitude / Drive duration 45 minutes / Start trek to Astam Village 1600 m altitude / Walking hours: 2 hours
7Day 7 - Trek to Dhampus village a small Gurung Village 1650m altitude / Drive duration: 3 to 4 hours / Walking hours: 3-4 hours

Today, if possible, wake up early morning to see Mountain Views and sunrise. After breakfast, we will start our trek. We will trek up and down to reach Dhampus with a walk of 3 - 4 hours.
There is no other place near Pokhara that offers an escape like Dhampus. This hike is suitable for anyone due to its moderate length and low elevation. Enjoy the beautiful landscape and mountain views. We then descend on our trail to reach Phedi, passing through forests and villages, here our driver will be waiting for you to drive you back to your hotel in Pokhara.

Trek to Dhampus village a small Gurung Village 1650m altitude /  Drive duration: 3 to 4 hours / Walking hours: 3-4 hours
Trek to Dhampus village a small Gurung Village 1650m altitude /  Drive duration: 3 to 4 hours / Walking hours: 3-4 hours
8Day 8 - Drive back to Kathmandu / Drive duration: 6 to 7 hours drive / Rickshaw ride through traditional alleys of Kathmandu

Drive back to Kathmandu. Check in to your hotel and after some fresh refreshments, you will go for a Rickshaw ride.

Experience and discover Kathmandu and its culture like a local on a Rickshaw ride. Our guide will meet you to begin your rickshaw tour through the busy streets of the Thamel area. We will pass through handicraft shops selling pashmina shawls, Nepali carpets, etc. The streets merge onto a market area full of local shops called Ason Bazaar, a popular vegetable and spice market and the oldest in Kathmandu, around 1000 years old. Later we arrive at Durbar Square, filled with centuries-old temples, palaces, and shrines that are sure to enchant you. Walk the square on foot and our guide will take you to the house of Living Goddess at Hanuman Dhoka Palace, here you will also explore one of the hippie-era streets known as Freak Street. After exploring the area, we will ride back to your hotel on the Rickshaw by way of Indrachowk a popular local shopping area where you can drink a cold and fresh Lassi.

Drive back to Kathmandu / Drive duration: 6 to 7 hours drive / Rickshaw ride through traditional alleys of Kathmandu
Drive back to Kathmandu / Drive duration: 6 to 7 hours drive / Rickshaw ride through traditional alleys of Kathmandu
9Day 9 - Departure

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel. As per your flight departure time, our team will coordinate and pick you up from your hotel to transfer you to the airport for departure. Check-in and fly towards your onward journey.