Arrive in Kathmandu. Transfer to Hotel

You will be greeted at the airport and escorted to your luxurious Five Star Hotel, Hotel De L' Annapurna, in a private coach. If time allows, we may begin sightseeing on the same day; otherwise, the itinerary outlined below will be followed on the following day. Before we begin our sightseeing tour, you will have some time to relax and refresh yourself. Our first stop will be Kathmandu Durbar Square, where you will be able to explore the historic sites that once housed kings from various dynasties. This classic tour will take you to temples that showcase the exquisite Hindu and Buddhist architectural styles. The duration of this tour is approximately 3 and a half hours. At 7:00 PM later today, we will be rendezvous with you and proceed to a nearby location (a serene restaurant) to partake in the Welcome Dinner featuring a Live Nepalese Cultural Program organized by Makalu Adventure. We will return to the hotel by 10:10 PM

Fully guided sightseeing of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu valley. Drive to Nagarkot

Following breakfast at the hotel, we will commence our full-day sightseeing tour (starting at 0900hrs) aboard a luxurious coach. Our first destination will be Swoyambhunath, followed by a series of other renowned sites, all of which have been recognized as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. Swoyambhunath: Situated on a hillock, Swoyambhunath is a remarkable Buddhist Chaitya that holds immense historical and religious significance. Dating back over 2000 years, this ancient site is considered one of the world's most glorious and enigmatic. Referred to as "the Self-Created or Existent," Swoyambhunath is adorned with a captivating mosaic of small stupas and pagoda temples, each contributed by different kings and noblemen throughout time. The primary structure of this sacred place is constructed using a solid hemisphere of brick and clay, which supports a majestic conical spire. Atop the spire, a pinnacle made of copper gilt adds to its grandeur. The base of the spire is adorned with the "All Seeing Eyes" of Lord Buddha, painted on all four sides. In essence, Swoyambhunath is renowned for its main features, known as "The Five Buddhas. Bouddhanath Stupa: This immense and ancient Stupa, renowned as one of Nepal's most extraordinary landmarks and claimed to be the largest in the world, draws Nepalese pilgrims of Tibetan descent from distant regions such as Dolpo and Mugu, as well as Tibet, Ladhak in India, and Bhutan. Bouddhanath Stupa, adorned with all-seeing eyes of the primordial Adi Buddha on each of its four sides, is believed to house the remains of Kashyap - the Buddha of the previous era. Constructed in the fifth century by King Mana Deva of the Lichchhivi dynasty, this Stupa measures 100 meters in diameter and stands atop an octagonal base adorned with prayer wheels. Rising to a height of 36 meters from the base, including the spire, "all-seeing eyes," and the pinnacle, it symbolizes the stages of enlightenment, embodying concepts of royalty, compassion, knowledge, and nirvana. Numerous myths surround the origins of this Stupa. We will enjoy our lunch here after the sightseeing excursion, at approximately 1330hrs. Guheshwari: Guheshwari, a place located just a short drive away from Bouddha, holds a significant story. Legend has it that when Sati, the beloved companion of Shiva, sacrificed herself by setting herself on fire due to her father's disrespectful behavior, Shiva, overwhelmed with sorrow, roamed the heavens carrying her lifeless body. As her remains descended to the ground, 51 holy sites were formed. It is believed that her intimate parts fell in this very place, hence the name "Guheshwari. Pashupatinath Temple: A short stroll will lead you to the renowned Pashupatinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple showcases exquisite Newari architecture, boasting a two-tiered golden roof and silver doors. It is located in close proximity to the sacred Bagmati River. While access to the temple grounds is restricted to Hindus only, visitors can still enjoy a clear view of the temple from the eastern bank of the river. Pashupati, known as the "Lord of the Animals," is the revered deity of Nepal. According to legend, he was discovered by a humble herdsman when one of his cows began showering the earth with milk. On the opposite side of the sacred river, amidst a collection of ornate monuments, lies the Sleshmantak or Mrigasthali Ban (forest). It is believed that Lord Shiva resided here in the form of an antelope to elude the pursuit of demigods. Now the drive starts, will take you to Nagarkot for the overnight stay.

Morning Sunrise view from Nagarkot. Explore Bhaktapur and Patan

Experience breathtaking panoramas at this idyllic retreat located at an elevation of 2,164 meters and just 32 kilometers east of the valley. With an early morning wake-up call, you'll be treated to awe-inspiring views of the eastern Himalayas, which include five of the world's highest peaks: Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Makalu, and Manaslu. After breakfast, we will drive to Bhaktapur for sightseeing. Bhaktapur Durbar Square: Bhadgaon, also known as Bhaktapur, is located at an altitude of 1401 m. This city is renowned for its medieval art and architecture, and it was even featured as the site for Bertolucci's Little Buddha. Covering an area of 4 sq. miles, Bhaktapur is shaped like a conch-shell and is known as the city of Devotees. The traditional industries here include pottery and weaving. Situated 14 km east of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur is considered the essence of the Newari City and is one of Nepal's greatest treasures. We will stop here for lunch before heading to Patan, also known as The City of Finest Arts. Patan Durbar Square: Also referred to as "Lalitpur," the city of fine arts is like a living museum, maintaining its medieval charm from ancient times. Nearly half of the inner-city population are skilled craftsmen. Patan was a prominent Buddhist city in Asia during the 7th century, attracting pilgrims, scholars, and monks from India, Tibet, and China. Legend has it that at one point, the entire population of Patan City consisted solely of monks and craftsmen. The city boasts Hindu temples, Buddhist monuments, and structures adorned with bronze gateways, guardian deities, and exquisite metal and woodcarvings. In the past, the forefathers of today's craftsmen were sought after in Tibet and even as far as Peking to construct monasteries, pagodas, and statues of Buddha and other revered figures. Enjoy your stay at Hotel De L' Annapurna.

Drive to Pokhara. Overnight at Hotel

Following breakfast, we will proceed with our journey to Pokhara, a stunningly picturesque town. Our lunch stop will be at Riverside Spring Resort along the way. We will spend the night at the luxurious Fishtail Lodge, a Five Star accommodation.

Pokhara City Tour

The entire day will be dedicated to exploring the attractions of Pokhara city. An early morning drive to Sarangkot will allow you to witness a breathtaking sunrise. Upon returning to Pokhara, we will visit Vindhyavasini Temple, Mahendra Cave, and then head back to the hotel for breakfast. Following this, we will enjoy an hour of boating at the picturesque Fewa Lake. A short 45-minute hike will lead you to the World Peace Stupa of Lord Buddha, offering a stunning view of Pokhara and the surrounding mountain range. Our next stop will be the Tibetan Refugee Camp, providing an interesting cultural experience. We will then visit David Falls before heading back. You will have some free time to explore the main Pokhara city at your leisure. In the evening, you will be taken to the city for dinner before returning to Fishtail Lodge.

Drive back to Kathmandu

Return to Kathmandu after breakfast. Spend the afternoon exploring the city, shopping, and more. Relax and stay overnight at Hotel De L' Annapurna

Depart from Kathmandu

Transportation to the airport for the ultimate departure