Legends of Nepal

Kathmandu

Your morning starts with an optional flight to view majestic Mt. Everest.

After breakfast, visit the highlights of Kathmandu: Kumari Bahal, the Temple of the Living Goddess; Kasthamandap, the wooden house that gave Kathmandu its name; Durbar Square, the central area housing an array of temples; the Royal Palace, overlooked by the ancient Hanuman Dhoka; and Swayambhunath, the 2000-year-old Buddhist stupa. In the afternoon visit Pasupatinath, the famous Lord Shiva Temple and Hindu cremation ground, and Boudhnath, the 2500-year-old Buddhist stupa. During the visit to Boudhnath Stupa, visit Thangka Art Gallery. Learn about the ancient Tibetan art of Thangka and meet with the painters, both monks and learners. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Kathmandu Valley

Today, visit the enchanting 16th century Newari towns of Bungamati and Khokana. These are two settlements in the Kathmandu Valley that have been least affected by modern adaptations. The village has hundreds of master wood carvers and sculpture producers. The ancient village came into existence as early in the 7th century. Regardless of the rapid changes in lifestyle of the urban population and the globalized way of living, the Bungamati locals have remained untouched by modern waves and are living the life that they know best - simply rural - from the past several centuries. Return to Kathmandu and overnight.

Pokhara

Sunrise visit to Sarangkot for spectacular photographic opportunities. Later, visit Bindebani Temple, Devis Fall, and Gupteswore Cave, a limestone cave dedicated to Lord Shiva. In the evening enjoy a boat ride on Lake Phewa. Overnight in Pokhara.

Dhulikhel - Bhaktapur - Kathmandu

After breakfast, visit Banepa and Panauti. The town of 40 temples and 28 festivals, Panauti is a quaint city situated at the confluence of the two rivers Rosi and Punyamati. Considered as one of the area’s most important medieval sites, Panauti houses a variety of Buddhist and Hindu monuments. Its architecture is an excellent example of Newari craftsmanship. Visit Krishna Temple, Unmata Bhairav Temple, and Ahilya Temple situated nearby in the same courtyard.

The bustling little Newar town of Banepa used to be a major stop for traders travelling between Lhasa (Tibet) and Kathmandu Valley, boasting trade relations with the Ming Dynasty of China. The city today is a mélange of modern houses and traditional houses.

Continue to Bhaktapur, the City of Devotees. The best preserved of the three main medieval cities of the valley, Bhaktapur houses some of the most breathtaking religious architecture in the entire country. It has three major squares: Durbar Square, Taumadhi Square, and Dattatreya Square; studded with pagoda and shikhara-style temples. Devoid of traffic and pollution, Bhaktapur is often considered the cleanest city in the valley. Narrow stone paved streets snake through red brick houses, leading you to hidden temples, water sprouts, and courtyards. The city proudly displays its cultural life; artisans have been continuing traditional work like weaving and pottery for generations.

Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel. Overnight.