Welcome to the mystic land of festivals, Temples, colourful bazaars, quaint streets and fabulous art and architecture!

Nepal has always been an independent and sovereign country with a glorious history, culture and tradition that dates back to time immemorial. The tour encompasses the major heritage sites of the country and its legacy, which has made Nepal a unique and renowned historic tour destination.

A lot about the history of Nepal can be understood with the visit of the Historic Kathmandu Valley. The history of the Valley begins with the Buddhist saint Manjushree who slashed a passage through the surrounding hills to drain out the primordial waters and make it inhabitable. The Kathmandu valley with as many temples as houses stands upright piercing the sky canopy is aptly named ‘the valley of temples’. The Temples and Stupas scattered almost at every corner depict the deep faith of the people towards their customs and traditions taught by their ancestors, still preserved and frozen since time immemorial. The Kathmandu Valley, threshold of Nepal for the overseas visitors, has been a wonderland among tourists with the enormous diversity of people with their own culture, tradition and customs. It boasts a unique symbiosis of Hinduism, Buddhism as well as Tantrism in its culture, which is still alive today as it was hundreds of years ago. The religious influence can be openly seen in the city. The festivals celebrated and the rituals performed are worth observing and the fabulous art and the impressive architecture found in the vicinity is sure to make you awestruck. The magnificent artefacts found in the Durbar Squares of the three cities are renowned as a masterpiece in the tourism arena. Longing for visiting the Kathmandu Valley is a genuine exploration through the Historical, Cultural and Traditional values of the three enticing cities within it!

There are many other places in Nepal, which genuinely hold an enormous degree of Historic importance and make its people glorious. Gorkha, Bandipur, Tansen etc are some of such places. In this sightseeing tour, we have made our noble attempt to enclose many of such historic places to make you familiar with the major events occurred in the past in Nepal.

Places to visit:

Kathmandu: Pashupatinath Temple, Bouddhanath Stupa, Swyambhunath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square

Pashupatinath Temple: It is situated 5 kms east of Kathmandu on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River. The temple of lord Shiva, Pashupatinath, with a tiered golden roof & silver doors is famous for its superb architecture. Entrance to the temple precinct is forbidden to non-Hindus. The best view is from the terrace on the wooded hill across the river. The large gilded triple-roofed temple was built in 1696 AD though 300 years earlier there was a structure on this site. The Bagmati River is lined with dharmasalas and cremation ghats. There is usually a cremation in progress on one of the platforms by the river, regarded as holy as it flows into the sacred Ganges. There are many occasions when the faithful take ritual baths in the river. One of the most colorful festivals is the women's festival Teej when they are dressed in their finest red and gold saris. Hundreds of women are seen laughing and singing on the way to the temple of Lord Pashupatinath. Another great time to be here is the Festival of Shivaratri, the birthday of lord Shiva.

Bouddhanath Stupa: Situated at the distance of 8 km from Kathmandu Bouddhanath is the biggest stupa in Nepal and the pilgrimage centre for great many Tibetans living in Nepal. Many Tibetan Lamas and Rinpoches reside in surrounding area of the stupa. This colossal Stupa is set on concentric ascending terraces in the powerful pattern of a Mandala. Around the base of this strikingly enormous and simple stupa is a ring of 108 images of the Buddha and 147 insets containing prayer wheels.

Swayambunath Stupa: About 45 min of walk from city centre, atop a green hillock west of Kathmandu stands the great stupa of Swayambhunath, a site over 2,500 years old marking the point where the legendary patriarch Manjushri discovered the lotus of the ancient Valley Lake. For centuries an important centre of Buddhist learning, the painted eyes of the Buddha gaze out from all four sides of the monument. Constructed to specific rules each with a symbolic meaning, the stupa of Swayambhunath is a model of its kind. The whole is hung with multi-coloured prayer flags of which every flutter releases holy prayers. The faithful circumambulate the stupa clockwise, turning the banks of prayer wheels and even prostrating full-length in reverence. Swoyambhunath commands great view of Kathmandu valley and the Himalayas and a visit around sunset time will be highly enjoyed.

Kathmandu Durbar Square: Kathmandu Durbar Square is one of the major attractions in Kathmandu Valley. The Kathmandu Durbar Square holds the palaces of the Malla and Shah kings who ruled over the city. Along with these palaces, the square also surrounds quadrangles revealing courtyards and temples. The square is presently known as Hanuman Dhoka, a name derived from the statue of Hanuman, the monkey devotee of Lord Ram, near the entrance of the palace. The preference for the construction of royal palaces at this site dates back to as early as the Licchavi period in the third century. There are very many interesting places to see within Durbar Square premises, to name a few Kumari Ghar – the palace of ‘living Goddess’ kumari, Kastha Mandup – the temple built by one single Sal (sorea robusta) tree, Maru Ganesh —one of the most famous Lord Ganesh temples of the valley, Big Drums, Shiva Parvati Temple etc.

Patan: Patan Durbar Square, Golden Temple, Mahabaudha, and Red Machhendranath Temple

Patan Durbar Square: Patan Durbar Square, like its counterpart in Kathmandu, is an enchanting mélange of palace buildings, artistic courtyards and graceful pagoda temples. Listed as a World Heritage Site, the former royal palace complex is the centre of Patan’s religious and social life, and houses a museum containing an array of bronze statues and religious objects. One remarkable monument here is a 17th century temple dedicated to the Hindu God Krishna – Krishna Mandir built entirely of stone with rare stone carvings on its walls depicting the epic wars from Ramayana and Mahabharata.

Golden Temple: This beautiful and tranquil temple in Patan is an unusual Buddhist monastery known commonly as ‘Hiranya Varna Mahabihar’, ‘Kwa Bahal’ or ‘Suvarna Mahavihara’ and is situated north of Durbar Square. Legend has it that the Golden Temple was founded during the 12th Century. Golden temple described as a ‘jeweled casket’ floating in the amrit (the water of immortality), and believed that should the waters of the philosophy of faith be ingested a promise of life eternal is his alone. The waters of amrit are legendary because of its assumed healing powers, vitality and health given to those who believe. Patan's Golden Temple is simple from the outside and majestic from the inside, with stone gates produced by the silakars whose descendants can still be seen working in the woodcarving industry.

Mahabaudha: Mahabouddha can be reached by walking east from the southern end of Durbar Square and then turning right at the sunken water taps. This Buddhist monument is an excellent example of terra cotta art form, which points to the skill of Patan’s ancient craftsmen with a variety of building styles. The 14th century monument’s obelisk-like design is also unusual in a city of pagoda roofs.

Red Machhendra Nath Temple: South of Durbar Square, on the western side of the road, is the Rato (Red) Machhendranath Temple. Rato Machhendranath, the god of rain and plenty, comes in a variety of incarnations. To Buddhists he is the Tantric edition of Avalokiteshvara, while to Hindus he is a version of Shiva. Standing in a large courtyard, the three-storey temple dates from 1673, although an earlier temple may have existed on the site since 1408. Each year during the Rato Machhendranath Festival celebrations it's paraded around the town on a temple chariot during the valley's most spectacular festival. Machhendranath is considered to have great powers over rain and, since the monsoon is approaching at this time, this festival is an essential plea for good rain.

Kirtipur: This small town is situated on a ridge 6 km southwest of Kathmandu. The ancient township established in 1099 is a natural fortress and has a proud and courageous history. It was the first place to be attacked by Prithvi Narayan Shah, the Great King of Shah dynasty, in 1768. The Chilamchu stupa and the temple of Bagh Bhairav are major sights here. Kirtipur offers quaint streets lined with artistic houses and temple squares and great views of Kathmandu Valley. The people here are famous for their skills in building and weaving and other ancient looming. The oldest educational institute, Tribhuvan University is located in the bottom of the hill.

Bhaktapur: Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Sidhha Pokhari, Batsala Temple, Dattatraya Square, Survavinayak Temple

Bhaktapur Durbar Square: As you walk in, you cannot but be overcome by a feeling of inner harmony. Such is the art and architecture and the special layout here. The Palace of 55 Windows built during the period of King Bhupatindra Malla in 1754 situated to the left as you enter through the city gate, inspires admiration. The National Art Gallery is also housed inside. The palace entrance, the Golden Gate known as Sunko Dhoka in Nepali is a masterpiece in repousse art. In front of the palace building is a medley of temples of various designs. Amongst the three Durbar Squares in the Valley, the Durbar Square in Bhaktapur is the best preserved one.

Sidhha Pokhari: A pond dating back to the Lichhavi period, is better known as Ta-Pukhu, meaning big pond is associated with a number of different myths. Though situated right at the bus stop, it provides a serene atmosphere with its sashaying fish and the stone images of different Hindu and Buddhist Gods. From this location a wide range of snow-caped peaks are visible on clear days.

Batsala Temple: This 17th century stone temple, dedicated to a mother goddess, is full of intricate carvings on stone. It is most renowned for its bronze bell, known to local residents as ‘ the bell of barking dogs’, as when it is rung, all dogs in the vicinity start barking and howling! The huge bells was hung by a king of Malla dynasty named Ranjit Malla in 1737 A.D. and was used to give notice of the daily curfew.

Dattatraya Square: Dattatreya Square takes its name from the Dattatreya temple dedicated to a three-headed combination of the Hindu deities Brahma, Bishnu and Shiva. This temple is said to have been built from he trunk of a single tree. It was built in 1427 A.D. during the reign of King Yakchhya Malla and was repaired in 1458 A.D. by King Bishwor Malla. If you want to experience the feel of the traditional urban layout of Bhaktapur, Dattatreya Square is it. Set in a maze of streets lined with richly ornamented houses, the square is famed for its many ornate Hindu monasteries known as Math. The National Woodworking Museum is also housed here and the Brass and Bronze Museum is across the street. The oldest structure in Bhaktapur was raised during the reign of the last Malla King, Yaksha Malla who ruled the Valley before it was divided into three Kingdoms amongst his three heirs.

Survavinayak Temple: Suryavinayak is one of the most popular pilgrimage spots of Bhaktapur, 12 kilometers east of the centre. It has been positioned in such a way to catch the first rays of the sun in the morning. Situated in a thick forest to the south of Bhaktapur, it is a 20-minute walk from the trolley bus terminal. The temple, dedicated to the Hindu deity Ganesh (the Elephant-headed God) is crowded with devotees especially on Tuesdays and Saturdays. It is also one of the favourite picnic spots offering elegant views of Bhaktapur and other attractive landscapes.

Gorkha: Perched on a high rock this interesting town Gorkha holds an enormous degree of Historical importance. This mid-hill town where the legend of Gurkhas begins is located between Kathmandu and Pokhara and is just 5 hours drive from Kathmandu. Out here the palaces and temples stood as hidden jewels of Nepal are stunningly beautiful. On a clear sky day, you can view Himalayan range including spectacular views of Manaslu and Himalchuli Mountains, and panoramic views of the valleys. Gorkha is also the home of Gurkhas - the legendary brave warriors who fought with knives against guns.

The renowned places for sightseeing in Gorkha are: Gorkha Durbar, Gorkha Nath Temple, Gorakh Kali Temple, etc. Starting point of Trek to Manaslu region. Also view the palace building, one of Nepal's historical landmark, some buildings have interesting woodcarvings portraying various romantic scenes. To give full justice to your scenic tour view the temple of Goddess Gorakhkali residing on the west side of the palace. To view sunrise from the palace, climb very early in the morning.

Bandipur: Bandipur is a picturesque town nestled in the Himalayan foothills of Nepal, a land as famous for its natural beauty as for the hospitality of its people. Due to its preserved, old time cultural atmosphere, Bandipur has increasingly been coming to the attention of tourism. Formerly a Magar village, Bandipur today is settled by a variety of Nepali ethnicities with different beliefs: the Bahuns, the Chettris, the Newars, the Damais, Kamis, Sarkis, Kasais, the Magars and Gurungs.

Other attractions include the Bindyabashini temple and the library in the village centre, Thani Mai, Tindhara (“Three Taps” washing place at the south-eastern outskirts), Raniban (Queen's Forest), the downhill trek to the Siddha Cave and a hike to Ramkot village. Some villagers out here have picked up growing oranges, which do quite well in the climate of that area. An hour’s walk to the west of Bandipur is a silk farm. On Mukundeswari, the elevation at the western end of the saddle is a little shrine and one has a view of Bandipur itself.

Day to Day Outline Itinerary (8 Nights/9 Days Scenic Tour Package)

Day 01.	Arrival in Kathmandu & transfer to hotel Upon arrival in Kathmandu airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to the hotel for refreshment or rest. Generally there will not be any tour activities today unless requested. Nevertheless, depending on your arrival time in Kathmandu, you may have opportunity to explore the touristy area “Thamel”. Eve: In the evening, you will be welcomed with traditional dinner at a Nepali restaurant featuring cultural programme. Overnight stay will be in a splendid hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 02.	Sightseeing in Kathmandu: Pashupatinath Temple, Bouddhanath Stupa, Swayambunath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square a.m.: After breakfast, you will be introduced with your tour guide and then proceed for a sightseeing tour of Kathmandu city. Today’s tour encompasses visit to most scared places of the city – the Pashupatinath Temple and the Boudhanath stupa. Relax and enjoy a delicious lunch in the vicinity of the Boudhhanath Stupa in a friendly Tibetan environment. p.m.: After the lunch, you will be driven to the historic Kathmandu Durbar Square. Go classic for a couple of hours! Observe and feel what the history has left for Nepal. Afterwards, you conclude your day’s excursion being driven up to the Swayambunath stupa, which is situated atop a hill from where you can get a bird’s eye view of the entire Kathmandu valley. Overnight stay will be at a splendid hotel.
Day 03.	Patan & Bhaktapur: a.m.: After the breakfast, to make the most of your day you will leave your hotel for the visit to Patan, the city of fine arts having opportunity to be familiar with traditional Nepal culture. Today’s visit is a golden opportunity to witness a mosaic of culture, tradition and arts. This amazing historic area representing typical Newari style has pieces of art or images of deities to display at every nook and cranny. Around the mid-day you will be taken to Kirtipur, an old city depicting ancient culture and tradition. p.m.: After the Patan trip, you will be driven to Bhaktapur, city of devotees. Passing through slender alleys and many traditional houses we approach the threshold of the Lion Gate, which follows the entrance of the Durbar Square area. After the visit of the Bhaktapur Durbar Square area, you will be having lunch within its premises. Have lunch of your choice or try typical Newari foods, yet another grandeur of Bhaktapur. Then walk up to the Suryavinayak Temple, to give peace to your eyes with the greeneries of its vicinity. At this point you will conclude today’s scenic tour. Around the dusk you will get back to your hotel and relax.
Day 04.	Gorkha: After the breakfast, you will be driven to Gorkha, a Historic city of Nepal. A 5-hour drive from Kathmandu makes you reach at Gorkha. After the lunch you will have rest in the hotel.
Day 05.	Gorkha: This day you will be in an amazing historical excursion. After the breakfast, you will hike up to Gorkha Durbar which is a famous palace holding an enormous historical significance. Nepal has many historical glories to make known to the world. You will be able to witness what really our history has left us. Catching glimpses of the scenic beauties from the hilltop of the Gorkha Palace makes your heart full of glory. Overnight stay will be in the hotel at Gorkha.
Day 06.	Bandipur: After the visit of the historical place Gorkha, this day you will be driven to Bandipur, yet another city holding historical importance along with fabulous scenic beauty. This picturesque town nestled in the Himalayan foothills is famous for its natural beauty and for the hospitality of its people. After the lunch take a scenic and cultural tour to Bandipur village. The various attractions of this village rich in nature and culture include the Bindyabashini temple, the library in the village centre, Thani Mai, Tindhara (“Three Taps” washing place at the south-eastern outskirts), Raniban (Queen's Forest), the downhill trek to the Siddha Cave and a hike to Ramkot village. Enjoy better a typical Nepali dinner in the evening.
Day 07.	Kathmandu: Today, after the breakfast you will be driven back to Kathmandu with a great sense of glory of concluding Historic Nepal. Along the 5-hour long way you can enjoy attractive nature’s wealth. You'll be arriving at Kathmandu in the late afternoon.
Day 08.	Free Day in Kathmandu: After breakfast, you will be free so that you can go for shopping and picking up some last minute souvenirs. In the evening, Traditional Nepali Dinner will be awaiting you.
Day 09.	Departure: Early in the morning you will have breakfast and after this you will be headed to your next destination. Nepal is a land of beauty and adventure. You can go for outside the valley tour, Jungle Safari, trekking, bungy jumping, mountain flight etc. for giving completeness to your Nepal trip.

Total Trip Cost Per Person: USD 990

Number of Pax: Minimum Two person

Trip Cost Includes

Trip Cost Excludes