Short trip to Nepal

Flying into Kathmandu on a clear day is nothing short of breathtaking. As your plane glides over the majestic, snow-capped mountain peaks, the exhilarating panorama sets the stage for an unforgettable adventure. Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a friendly representative from Alkof Holidays will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay at the hotel.

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, set out for an engaging day of exploration, starting with Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Stupa, and Patan Durbar Square.

Swayambhunath Stupa: Begin your day with a visit to Swayambhunath Stupa, perched on a hillock 2 kilometers west of Kathmandu. This ancient Buddhist stupa, estimated to be around 2000 years old, offers breathtaking views over the valley. While the oldest written references date back to the 5th century, local legends suggest it could be much older, possibly forming during the valley’s creation. The stupa is popularly known as the "Monkey Temple" due to the large population of monkeys that roam the site.

Thamel: Next, hop on a rickshaw for a charming 20-minute ride to Thamel, Kathmandu’s bustling tourist district. This lively area is filled with narrow streets lined with a diverse range of shops, budget hotels, and eateries. It’s an excellent spot for souvenir shopping, offering everything from clothing and handicrafts to music CDs and paintings. When hunger strikes, you’ll find a variety of restaurants serving delicious local and international dishes.

Kathmandu Durbar Square: Continue your tour at Kathmandu Durbar Square, located in the heart of the city. This historic square is surrounded by a fascinating array of temples, courtyards, and ancient royal palaces. Highlights include the Hanuman Dhoka Royal Palace, the magnificent Taleju Temple towering more than 40 meters; Kumari Ghar (the residence of the Living Goddess), Ashok Vinayak Temple dedicated to Lord Ganesh, and Kal Bhairav, the fearsome deity. Don’t miss the impressive Kasthamandap pagoda, which is said to have been constructed from a single tree and is the namesake of the city.

Patan Durbar Square: Conclude your sightseeing with a visit to Patan, situated 5 km southeast of Kathmandu. Known as the "City of Artisans," Patan Durbar Square is renowned for its exquisite Newari architecture. The square features ornate palaces, artistic courtyards, and elegant pagoda temples, showcasing the peak of Newari craftsmanship from the Malla kings' era. Admire the intricate wood and stone carvings, metal statues, and numerous Buddhist and Hindu temples spread across the square. Return to your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.

After an early breakfast, embark on a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Chitwan, covering approximately 180 km. The journey offers breathtaking views of the Nepalese countryside. Along the way, stop for a visit to the revered Manakamana Temple, one of Nepal's most important Hindu shrines. Accessible by a cable car ride, the temple sits atop a hill, providing panoramic views of the lush hills and the flowing Trishuli River. Dedicated to the goddess Bhagwati, the temple is believed to grant the wishes of devotees, making it a significant pilgrimage site.

After your spiritual visit, continue your drive to Chitwan. In the evening, experience the vibrant local culture by attending a Tharu Cultural Dance Show, where the indigenous Tharu people showcase their traditional dances and customs. Dinner and overnight stay at a resort in Chitwan.

Start your day with an exciting array of jungle activities at Chitwan National Park, one of Nepal's premier wildlife reserves and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Begin with a thrilling jungle safari, where you'll explore the dense forests and grassy plains, home to diverse wildlife including the rare one-horned rhinoceros, Bengal tigers, wild elephants, and various species of deer and birds. As you traverse the park, keep an eye out for the vibrant birdlife that flourishes in the region, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.

In the afternoon, enjoy a canoe ride along the Rapti River, where you can observe crocodiles sunbathing on the riverbanks and spot other aquatic wildlife. Later, take a guided nature walk through the jungle, learning about the rich flora and fauna that make Chitwan a biodiversity hotspot. Your experienced guide will share insights into the park’s ecology and the conservation efforts being made to protect its unique ecosystem. To wrap up the day, visit the Elephant Breeding Center, where you can learn about the center’s efforts to conserve the endangered Asian elephants and see young calves being nurtured. The day will give you a deep appreciation for the natural beauty and wildlife of Chitwan, making it an unforgettable experience. Return to your hotel in Chitwan for an overnight stay.

After a hearty breakfast, we will drive to Nagarkot, a tranquil hill station renowned for its breath-taking sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayas. En route visit Boudhanath, one of the largest stupas in Nepal, where you can soak in the spiritual ambiance and watch monks in prayer. Later visit Bhaktapur, a city rich in medieval art and architecture. Explore the ancient Bhaktapur Durbar Square, marvel at the exquisite temples, and stroll through its quaint streets. Later continue your drive to Nagarkot for overnight stay.

Start your day with an awe-inspiring sunrise over the Himalayas in Nagarkot. After a hearty breakfast, we will transfer you to Kathmandu International Airport to board a flight to home or onward destination.