EXPLORE NEPAL · TOURS & TREKS

Glimpse of Nepal

A journey shaped by the landscapes, people and experiences of Nepal.

Offered by Al Shalal Travels

Duration8 days
Illustrative Nepal scenery for Glimpse of Nepal NEPAL · TRAVEL EXPERIENCES
01 / THE EXPERIENCE

Discover the journey

Embark on an awe-inspiring journey through Nepal’s cultural, spiritual, and natural wonders with our enchanting Glimpse of Nepal tour. This captivating adventure unveils the essence of this mesmerizing country, taking you to its most renowned destinations. Your voyage commences in Kathmandu, a contemporary city once divided into three medieval marvels. Immerse yourself in its rich cultural tapestry, where the past and present harmoniously coexist, and heritage comes alive in every corner. Next, the picturesque city of Pokhara awaits, an oasis of tranquility adorned with stunning natural vistas. Lake Phewa’s serene waters beckon for a boat ride, all beneath the watchful gaze of towering Himalayan peaks. Lumbini, the revered birthplace of Lord Buddha, awaits your exploration, where the ‘Light of Asia’ first graced the world. Let the sacred aura guide your footsteps as you uncover the spiritual heritage that emanates from this holy land. Venture into the lush embrace of Chitwan National Park, where verdant jungles teem with exotic wildlife, and the thrill of nature pulses through every moment. Throughout your Glimpse of Nepal experience, a dedicated professional guide will be your insightful companion, ensuring your journey is both informative and inspiring. Travel comfortably in a private tourist vehicle or a coach, smoothly transitioning between cities via air or ground transportation. Rest your spirit at 2 or 3-star hotels and lodges, soaking in the warmth of Nepalese hospitality as you prepare for the next chapter of your exploration. And as you traverse this incredible journey, don’t forget to collect cherished memories in the form of authentic souvenirs. From intricate carpets to skillful handicrafts, captivating carvings, and traditional Thankas, Nepal’s treasures await your embrace. Our Glimpse of Nepal tour is more than a trip; it’s an immersive passage through Nepal’s heart and soul. With every step, you’ll witness the cultural threads, spiritual vibrations, and natural beauty that define this enchanting nation.

02 / WHY GO

The memorable moments

Guided city tours – Kathmandu, Pokhara & Lumbini. Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Visit the sacred site where Lord Buddha was born. Discover the scenic wonders of Pokhara– Lake Phewa, Davis Fall, Seti Gorge etc. Spectacular sunrise with 360 degree view of Himalayan peaks from Sarangkot. Wildlife Activities in Chitwan National Park.

03 / YOUR ROUTE

Journey at a glance

Day Day 1: Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu & Half-day Sightseeing around Kathmandu — Max. Altitude: Kathmandu (1,400 m)Our airport representative will be receiving you at Tribhuvan International airport, Kathmandu. S/he will be displaying an Ace the Himalaya signboard outside the airport terminal. You will be then transferred to your respective hotel in our private tourist vehicle. After checking into your hotel and a brief rest prepare for a half-day guided sightseeing tour of the city. You will get to visit two of the city’s World Heritage Sites. Kathmandu Durbar Square This complex of palaces, courtyards and temples, built between the 12th and 18th centuries, used to be the seat of the ancient Malla kings of Kathmandu. An intriguing piece here is the 17th- century stone inscription set into the wall of the palace with writings in 15 languages. The Durbar Square is the social, religious and urban focal point of the city. There are also three museums inside the palace building. Swoyambhunath Stupa – The Monkey Temple The stupa watches over the valley from the top of a hillock on its western side. The huge white-domed stupa is one of the holiest Buddhists sites in Nepal and its establishment is linked to the creation of the Kathmandu Valley out of a primordial lake. Swoyambhu is also known as ‘Samhengu’ and the Monkey temple because of the countless monkeys living in the premises. Kathmandu Durbar SquareSwayambhunathOvernight at a HotelBreakfast included Day Day 2: Drive to Pokhara by private tourist vehicle — Max. Altitude: Pokhara (900 m)Duration: 7-8 hrs driveTransfer from Kathmandu to Pokhara 7 to 8 hours drive. Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel. After an early breakfast, we head to Pokhara on a private tourist vehicle (depending on the size of the group, the vehicle would be assigned). It is a scenic drive filled with inspiring views of the mountains, Himalayan Rivers, and picturesque hilltop villages. Overnight at lakesideBreakfast included Day Day 3: Sunrise view from Sarangkot & Pokhara Sightseeing — Max. Altitude: Sarangkot (1,592 m)Wake up early to catch the sunrise from Sarangkot Hill. SarangkotA drive of 45 minutes with 25 minutes hike brings us to the view point of Sarangkot. It is the best spot in Pokhara to view the Himalayas. Get mesmerized with the magical sight of the golden sun rising over white spires of the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri and Machhapucchre (Fishtail Peak), including views of the beautiful the Pokhara Valley and Phewa lake. It takes about 15-minute walk down and 45 minutes drive to the hotel in Pokhara. Return to hotel for breakfast. Later in the day we visit these sites, Bindhabasini TempleLies in the center of religious old bazaar. It is dedicated to Goddess Bhagwati, yet another manifestation of Shakti. The park grounds offer a fine picnic and relaxing area. Davis FallLocally known as Patale Chhango and in the southern flank of the Pokhara valley is where the stream flowing from Fewa Lake collapses and surges down the rock into a deep gorge, leaping through several potholes. This is hugely popular with tourists and locals alike. Gupteshwor CaveThe revered Gupteshwor Cave is situated 2 kms from Pokhara airport. The entrance is right across from Davis Fall and the cave is almost 3 kms long. It has some big hall-sized rooms and some passages where you have to crawl on all fours. This cave holds special value to Hindus since a phallic symbol of Lord Shiva is preserved here in the condition it was discovered. Phewa Lake and Barahi TempleSituated at an altitude of 800m above sea level, it is the second largest lake in Nepal. With the Barahi Island Temple in the middle of the lake it is the most important religious monument in Pokhara. Built almost in the middle of Phewa Lake, this two-storied pagoda is dedicated to the female force Shakti. The reflection of Mt. Machhapuchhare and Annapurna can be seen in its serene water. Thick forest lies on the adjoining southern slopes of the lake. Seti River GorgeCarved by Seti-Gandaki is one of the natural wonders of Pokhara. K.I. Singh bridge at Bagar, Mahendrapool & Prithivi highway Bridge near bus park, provides a perfect view of the river’s dreadful rush and the deep gorge made by the turbulent flow of white water. Tibetan Refugee CampThe Tibetan camp Tashi Ling, which is behind Gupteshwor Cave, is renowned for the production and trade of woolen carpets and other handicrafts. The original Tibetan settlers in this region migrated to Nepal in the ‘50s. SarangkotDavis FallTal Barahi Temple PokharaOvernight at lakesideBreakfast included Day Day 4: Drive to Lumbini by private tourist vehicle — Max. Altitude: Lumbini (150 m)Duration: 4-5 hrs driveToday transfer to Lumbini from Pokhara 4 to 5 hours drive. Arrive at Lumbini. Upon arrival transfer to the hotel. Lumbini is the birthplace of Lord Buddha and a World Heritage Site 285 km southwest of Kathmandu. This pilgrimage site in southwest Nepal attracts devout Buddhists from around the world, who arrive to pay homage at the Sacred Garden where the ‘Enlightened One’ was born. A famous landmark is the Ashoka Pillar raised by the great emperor Ashoka who converted to Buddhism. Today Lumbini has been enlivened by the multitude of architecturally beautiful temples, stupas, and monasteries built by various international Buddhist communities. LumbiniMaya Devi Temple, LumbiniOvernight at a HotelBreakfast included Day Day 5: Half-day guided sightseeing in Lumbini. Afternoon drive to Chitwan by private tourist vehicle — Max. Altitude: Chitwan (415 m)Duration: 5-6 hrs driveLumbini is hallowed ground as Shakyamuni Buddha was born here in southern Nepal more than twenty-five hundred years ago. As a sacred birthplace, it is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists from around the globe. Many excavations have taken place here around this small town in the southern Terai plains of Nepal. Ruins of the old city are clearly visible and many artifacts were unearthed during the excavation. Shakyamuni Buddha was born a prince to the ruler of the little principality. Important landmarks are the Maya Devi temple and the Ashoka pillar. The remains of many ancient stupas and monasteries can be found in the surroundings of Lumbini. The Ashoka pillar is said to have been erected by the Indian Emperor Ashoka in 250 BC and bears an inscription confirming this as the birthplace of the Buddha. A stone image of Maya Devi giving birth to Lord Buddha as she holds onto a branch is seen in the Maya Devi temple. Later transfer from Lumbini to Chitwan; approximately 155 Kms / 4 to 5 hours drive. Upon arrival at Chitwan, transfer to Hotel by Jeep (or any other vehicle depending on group size). On reaching resort, you would be briefed by our Guest Relations Officer. After the lunch you would be going for Village tour. Meanwhile the dinner would be ready by the time you return to the resort. Overnight at Resort. Overnight at a ResortBreakfast and Dinner included Day Day 6: Wildlife activities in Chitwan National Park — Max. Altitude: Chitwan (415 m)Wake-up call followed by tea or coffee, and then proceed for canoeing/jeep safari. A traditional dug-out canoe takes you on a silent trip down the Rapti River to view aquatic birds and the animals of the river banks. Jeep safari by land rover starts from canoeing put out point covering the distance of approximately 10km with chances of seeing rare wildlife. Later we head to the elephant breeding centre and spend sometime with the tuskers. Remaining hours before the afternoon program: take a dip in the pool or relax on your verandah. Overnight at a ResortBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner included Day Day 7: Wildlife activities in Chitwan National Park and Drive to Kathmandu by private tourist vehicle — Duration: 6-7 hrs driveToday, depart Chitwan and transfer to Kathmandu; 160 Kms, 5 to 6 hours drive. Upon arrival, transfer to hotel. After returning to Kathmandu, you have the afternoon and the evening free. Explore the city on your own. Stroll along the streets of Kathmandu for some last minute shopping. In the evening, we host a farewell dinner in a fine restaurant. (Your guide(s) and an office staff will accompany you). You have the option to extend your trip to continue onto rafting adventure, Kathmandu valley shopping tour, mountain biking and other activities. Overnight at a HotelBreakfast and farewell dinner included Day Day 8: Transfer to the international airport for your final departure — The trip concludes. Our airport representative will drop you at the international airport in Kathmandu for your flight departure from Nepal. Breakfast included

YOUR DAY-BY-DAY ROUTE

Day-by-day itinerary

Day 1Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu & Half-day Sightseeing around Kathmandu — Max. Altitude: Kathmandu (1,400 m)+

Confirm daily arrangements with the provider.

Day 2Drive to Pokhara by private tourist vehicle — Max. Altitude: Pokhara (900 m)+

Confirm daily arrangements with the provider.

Day 3Sunrise view from Sarangkot & Pokhara Sightseeing — Max. Altitude: Sarangkot (1,592 m)+

Confirm daily arrangements with the provider.

Day 4Drive to Lumbini by private tourist vehicle — Max. Altitude: Lumbini (150 m)+

Confirm daily arrangements with the provider.

Day 5Half-day guided sightseeing in Lumbini. Afternoon drive to Chitwan by private tourist vehicle — Max. Altitude: Chitwan (415 m)+

Confirm daily arrangements with the provider.

Day 6Wildlife activities in Chitwan National Park — Max. Altitude: Chitwan (415 m)+

Confirm daily arrangements with the provider.

Day 7Wildlife activities in Chitwan National Park and Drive to Kathmandu by private tourist vehicle — Duration: 6-7 hrs drive+

Confirm daily arrangements with the provider.

Day 8Transfer to the international airport for your final departure — The trip concludes. Our airport representative will drop you at the international airport in Kathmandu for your flight departure from Nepal.+

Confirm daily arrangements with the provider.

KNOW WHAT'S COVERED

What's included in your experience

Included

  • All (international and domestic) airport transfers on a tourist vehicle
  • Twin-sharing/double accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu & Pokhara for 2 nights each, and Lumbini for 1 night only including breakfast. (Private room accommodation can be organized at an extra cost)
  • Twin-sharing/double accommodation at a resort in Chitwan for 2 nights including Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner with jungle activities in the national park.
  • All ground transportation by private tourist vehicle.
  • Guided city tour in Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan, and Lumbini on a Private vehicle.
  • The required number of ground staff during the tour like Driver, Helpers etc.
  • Wages, accommodation, meals, gear, insurance, and medications for all staff
  • Entry permits and fees for all temples, parks, monasteries, and cultural and historical sites.
  • A farewell dinner on the last night in Nepal
  • All administrative expenses and government taxes

Not included

  • International flight fare and airport departure tax
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Lumbini about USD 15 to USD 20 per person per day.
  • Any beverages including bottled and boiled water
  • Tips for hostess and driver. (Tipping is expected).
  • Nepal Entry Visa (Visa can be acquired easily after your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu with a fee of USD 50 for 30 days visa and USD 125 for 90 days visa)
  • Your travel insurance.
  • Any expenses other than the Price Include section
PLAN AHEAD

Essential trip information

Accommodation

 Hotel 

Fitness & eligibility

3

Meeting point

Kathmandu

What to bring

  • All you need to bring for this tour is simply some comfortable clothes. There is no requirement for special equipment on the tour. However, for your ease, the following gives you a general idea about the personal items you need to manage for the trip. The personal items referred to here are optional and depend upon your choice. The most important factor to be considered while choosing the equipment and your backpack is the time of the year you are traveling.
  • We will supply complimentary water and a windproof duffel bag, which you can use on the tour for your shopping purpose. The duffel bag is yours to keep.
  • Therefore, this list is only a guide. You can use the list as a reference. There are numerous options, brands, and versions of each piece of clothing and equipment. Use your experience and the listed features to find the best gear for you. Some of the above equipment can be easily found in stores in Kathmandu.
  • (please note that winter wears are only necessary if in case you’re traveling in the month of Nov – Dec)
  • General
  • Rucksack bag or suitcase
  • Day pack Warm wool or synthetic hat that covers your ears
  • A pair of pair warm gloves
  • T-shirts, cotton pants (loose jeans/khakis), shorts, and a waterproof shell jacket (preferable if you are traveling in the rainy season from June to September)
  • Lightweight long underwear/thermals
  • Light camping shoes or sneakers
  • Sandals/flip-flops (Optional)
  • Sunglasses
  • Neck gaiter
  • Daypack (35-45 liters recommended) with rain cover
  • Wool or technical fabric liner gloves
  • Liner socks (optional such as silk)
  • Medicines and First Aid Kits
  • (Please note our guide will also carry the first-aid bag during the tour. However, we still recommend you bring your personal first-aid kit as well.)
  • Ibuprofen for general aches and pains
  • Immodium or Pepto Bismol capsules for upset stomach or diarrhea
  • One small-sized first-aid kit with blister treatments such as mole skin, band-aids, some waterproof tape, anti-infection ointments, etc
  • Other Essentials
  • Passport
  • Extra copies of passport-sized photos
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Toiletry kits
  • Lip balm
  • Sunscreen
  • Waterproof/dry bags for carrying important documents and money
  • Airline tickets (Please leave a copy at our office in Kathmandu. This can be useful if there is a change in the date of the flight.)
  • Optional
  • Once in Nepal, if you have the time, you can purchase supplies you need while touring. Thamel, Kathmandu’s tourist hub, is home to many shops where you can get a variety of reasonably priced equipment.
  • Power bank or extra batteries
  • Cameras and mobile phone
  • Binoculars
  • Cards/book
  • Important Information
  • We give you a free duffel bag and baseball cap during your pre-trip meeting in Kathmandu. The duffel bag will be used to pack your touring supplies.
  • This list is only a guide. You can use the list as a reference.
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