Home > Destinations > Nepal > The Kathmandu Valley
THE KATHMANDU VALLEY
Day 1 Delhi to Kathmandu – by air
Fly from Delhi to Kathmandu and on arrival and transfer to the Yak & Yeti
Hotel or up-grade to Dwarika’s Hotel. In the afternoon take a guided walking
tour of Durbar Square in the old city of Kathmandu. See the temples, shrines
and palaces of Durbar Square. One of the most famous temples is that of the Kumari,
or the Living Goddess. This goddess is selected from the Buddhist caste at the age
of 3 and once she reaches puberty another Kumari replaces her. Then visit the 2500
year old Swayambhunath Stupa where the all–seeing eyes of Buddha stare down on the
valley. (N)
Day 2 Kathmandu
Early this morning take the Everest Mountain flight (optional), a once in a lifetime
experience. This morning visit the beautiful and historic temple of Changu Narayan
which stands on a hilltop at the eastern end of the valley. Its origins go back to
the 4th century and many of the stone sculptures date from the 4th to 9th centuries.
Changu Narayan is a UNESCO World Heritage site, but is rarely visited by tourists.
In the afternoon visit Bhaktapur capital of the Kathmandu Valley between the 14th
and 16th centuries. Bhaktapur’s Durbar Square features an array of shrines, courtyards,
and memorial pillars with copper–gilt statues of kings and the famous Golden Gate made
of pure gold. However, it is the delicate woodcarvings that adorn virtually all the
buildings for which this city is noted. The sculptures guarding the Nayatpola Temple,
the tallest shrine in the Kathmandu Valley, are impressive. This temple is considered
to be the finest example of pagoda architecture in Nepal. (B)
Day 3 Kathmandu
This morning visit Pashupatinath and Bodhnath. Pashupatinath, most sacred of all
Nepalese Shiva shrines lies just 5kms east of Kathmandu. Built in 1696, the Temple
of Pashupatinath, with its large gilded triple roof is only open to Hindus. A bird’s
eye view of life in the temple complex is available, however, from the hillside across
the Bagmati River. Continue to nearby Bodhnath, one of the world’s oldest Lamaist shrines
and a focus for Tibetan pilgrimage. Here too the all–seeing eyes of Buddha look out over
the long rows of multi coloured prayer flags, which encircle the brilliant white dome.
In the afternoon visit the ancient city of Patan, capital of the Malla Kings. Durbar
Square contains a striking array of temples fountains, royal palaces covered with exquisite
carvings and adorned with beautiful bronzes. (B)
Day 4 Kathmandu to Delhi – by air
Transfer to Kathmandu Airport for your return flight to Delhi. (B)
STAYING ON
Wildlife and the world famous Chitwan National Park are a direct flight from Kathmandu. A beautiful reserve, Chitwan is rich in wildlife with one–horned rhinoceros, sloth bear, deer and Royal Bengal Tiger all found in the park. Viewing is by jeep, on foot or by elephant back and we recommend staying at the famous Tiger Tops Jungle Lodge.
Mountains and Pokhara will forever be linked and few places in the world can claim such a perfect setting overlooking the awesome Annapurna massif. A short flight from Kathmandu the Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge is an excellent base in which to relax and for scenic walks.
Trekking is synonymous with Nepal and we are pleased to offer a choice of short treks from Pokhara using Ker & Downey trekking lodges. Based in the picturesque villages of Birethanti, Ghandruk and Dhampus, these small and intimate lodges are managed by former Gurkha servicemen, cater for around sixteen guests and offer a wonderful insight into this beautiful country.
Experience the mountainous Himalayan Kingdom Bhutan. Easily reach by air from Kathmandu, Bhutan offers beautiful landscapes and fascinating culture. Traditional and charming, the little visited Bhutan is a hidden gem that captivates travellers and has remained unchanged over the centuries.
Sacred Varanasi, India’s holiest city, is only a short flight from Delhi. Located on the banks of the River Ganges, Varanasi is an assault on the senses and, at dawn, a sight to behold. Vibrant Kolkata can also be reached from Kathmandu by air.
Extend your stay in the subcontinent with a visit to the world famous Taj Mahal in Agra or colourful Jaipur, the state capital of Rajasthan.
Relax on the beaches of Goa or Kerala – both easily reached by air direct from Delhi. With a range of hotels to choose from both locations offer something for everyone and are an excellent way to end a tour. Time in Kerala could also be extended with a cruise on the backwaters.
Planning your journey: We can design a unique journey to suit you as our tours are totally tailor made. By combining your own ideas with our knowledge and experience we can help you to create your own journey tailored exactly to your requirements Once you have formulated your ideas, or if you require some general or specific advice, please call us on 01892 515966 or simply send your ideas to pettitts@btconnect.com. On receipt of your enquiry we will provide you with a full written quotation together with our suggestions and recommendations.
A Guide to Price – THE KATHMANDU VALLEY
Prices vary according to selected airlines, hotels and season, however, an indication to the current cost of this itinerary is from £625.00. All prices are per person and are based on a minimum of TWO persons travelling together and sharing a twin bedded room with meals as indicated. If you wish to travel alone we will be pleased to assist you with your arrangements and can provide a proposal on request.
Note: Meal Basis (N) = No Meal; (B) = Breakfast; (L) = Lunch; (D) = Dinner
For further important information please click here.