Itinerary
Day 01 - 21 Dec 2012: Arrival Day in Kathmandu
We start the trip on arrival at Kathmandu with airport pick up service. Since no activities are planned on day one, you can arrive at your own time. A briefing of the trip will be given by the tour/trek guide.
Day 02 - 22 Dec 2012: Full day sightseeing tour in Kathmandu city.6/7 hours After breakfast: Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu Valley. The places we will visit today are:
Swymbhunath Stupa: This is one of the world's most glorious Buddhist Stupa and is said to be 2,000 years old. Painted on the four sides of the spire's base are the all seeing eyes of Lord Buddha. Swayambunath is situated in a hillock about 77m above the level of the Kathmandu Valley and hence commands an excellent view of the valley.
Kathmandu Durbar Square: It is the historic seat of royalty. The Durbar Square, with its old temples and palaces, epitomizes the religious and cultural life of the people. Interesting things to see here are the Taleju Temple, Temple of Kal Bhairav, Nine storied old Palace and the Temple of Kumari (Living Goddess).
Pashupati Nath Temple: It is the temple of Lord Shiva, with two tiered golden roof and silver door is considered one of the holiest shrines for Hindus. Although only Hindus are allowed inside the temple, visitors can clearly see the temple and the activities performed in the temple premises from the eastern bank of the Bagmati River.
Bouddhanath stupa: It lies 8 km east of Kathmandu. This ancient colossal Stupa is one of the biggest in the world, and the centre of Tibetan Buddhism in the world. Evening: Transfer back to the hotel.
Day 03 - 23 Dec 2012: Sightseeing tour in Patan, Bhaktapur city & drive to Nagarkot - 6/7 hrs
Patan City:The ancient city of Patan, lying 5km southeast of Kathmandu is known as the city of fine arts. The city is full of Hindu temples and Buddhist monuments.
Bhaktapur City: Also known as Bhadgaon, is one of the medieval city with the 15th century old Palace fitted with 55 windows and Museum. Much of the art work in this city was accomplished at the end of the 17th century.
Nagarkot: It is a popular tourist destination of Nepal. It is situated 32km east of Kathmandu at an altitude of 2,175m above sea level. The panorama of the major mountain peaks of the eastern Nepal Himalaya including Mount Everest can be seen from here. We stay overnight in Nagarkot and enjoy the sunset and sunrise view. Overnight at Hotel
Day 04 - 24 Dec 2012: Drive to Rafting and Chitwan National Parks.7/8 hours. After breakfast we drive to Rafting starting point (Charaudi) and raft for about 3 hours in Trisuli River. After concluding rafting trip, we further drive to reach Sauraha (Chitwan) and transfer to the Resort. In the evening you can join Christmas Eve celebration in Sauraha, Dinner & overnight
Day 05 - 25 Dec 2012: Full day Jungle activities programs in National Park. Early morning, we exchange greetings of Merry Christmas. After breakfast: our activities start from Canoe trip by a Nature Walk Program or visit to the Elephant breeding centre. After Lunch: Bathing with Elephant in the Rapti River, Elephant back safari. After Dinner: Tharu dancing performance.
Day 06 - 26 Dec 2012: Jungle activities and drive to Pokhara. 7/8 hours. Early morning: Jungle excursion on an elephant and bird watching Program. After breakfast: Drive to Pokhara takes about 4/5 hours. Transfer to the Hotel.
Pokhara is a hill resort of remarkable natural beauty. The serenity of Phewa Lake and the magnificent summit of Machhapurhhre rising behind create an ambiance of peace and magic. The valley surrounding Pokhara is home to thick forests, gushing rivers, clear lakes and the world famous views of the Himalaya.
Day 07 - 27 Dec 2012: Drive to Nayapul and trek to Thikhedungha. 7/8 hours. After breakfast we drive to Nayapul (2hrs) where we meet with porters and pack the luggage and start trekking. We walk through lush green Burungdi river valley and beautiful villages. It takes about 3/4 hours gentle walk from Birethati to reach Tikhedunga (1530m) Overnight at Lodge.
Day 08 - 28 Dec 2012: Trek to Ghorepani. 6/7 hours. At the beginning, we have to walk steep up about 2 hours to reach Ulleri (2010m)which can be a bit challenging and adventurous. Then, the trail continues to ascend more gently, through the fine forests of oak and rhododendron up to Ghorepani(2870m).Overnight at Lodge.
Day 09 - 29 Dec 2012: Hiking Poonhill and trek to Tadapani.8/9 hours. We get up early morning and hiking up to Poonhill(3200m) (1 hr). From here you can see superb view of sunrise and beautiful panoramic views of Mt. Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, fishtail and many more. Then descend to Ghorepani. After breakfast we continue trek to Tadapani(2540m) Overnight at Lodge.
Day 10 - 30 Dec 2012: Trek to Ghandruk.5/6 hours This day we descend steeply through green forests then gentle walk on easy trails up to Ghandruk(1990m).Ghandruk is a beautiful village of Gurung people, one of the ethnic groups of Nepal who have their own culture and language. We can find more information of their ancient lifestyle and customs in the museum. From here, one can see stunning views of Hiunchuli, Gangapurna and Fishtail and this village is major tourist destination of Nepal.O/N lodge
Day 11 - 31 Dec 2012: Trek back to Pokhara.6/7 hours. New Year Eve Today, we gently walk down to Nayapul takes about 3/4 hours. We walk through some villages and beautiful Modi river valley. Then, we catch our transport at Nayapul & drive back to Pokhara. Overnight at hotel and Celebrate a New Year Eve.
Day 12 - 01 Jan 2013: New Year celebration in Pokhara. Free for New Year celebration program. Street festival event will be organized in Lakeside Pokhara so everybody can enjoy the festival.
Day 13 - 02 Jan 2013: Drive back to Kathmandu.7/8 hours. After breakfast you will be transferred back to Kathmandu on tourist coach or private vehicle which takes about 7/8 drive. Transfer to the hotel. Afternoon is free.
Day 14 - 03 Jan 2013: Airport transfer for final departure. After breakfast you will be transferred to the Kathmandu international airport for final departure. |