PILGRIMAGE IN NEPAL
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WELCOME TO NEPAL!!
Basking in the grandeur of the mighty Himalaya, the youngest yet highest mountain range in the world, considered the abode of the Gods. Nepal is a landlocked country in a South Asia, bordered by China in the North and India in the South,East and West. This birthplace of the messenger of peace Siddhartha Gautam Buddha is also home of bravest of the brave Gorkha warriors and the hosts the world’s highest peak Mt. Everest among many others.
Nepal is embellished with the gleaming Himalayan range in the north and adorned with tropical low land greenery in the south. Captivating art, culture, cryptic monasteries and temples, numerous massive places and monuments, unique festivals and lifestyles, sublime exquisite scenery and some of the best waling trials on the earth combined with stirring adventurous bustles are the prominent attributes of the breathtaking land which as positioned it as a distinctive travel destination in the world!!
Itinerary In Detail
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1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,592 ft.)
Upon arrival in Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport, meet our airport representative, assist and transfer to the hotel. At the hotel’s lobby welcome refreshments will be served and room check in assistance provided. Shortly afterwards there will be a tour briefing at the hotel’s lobby.
Eve: Welcome dinner at Nepali restaurant featuring cultural program.
Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu. -
2: Heritage tour of ancient Kathmandu.
Early morning: Optional Mt. Everest scenic flight from Kathmandu’s domestic Airport for approximately one hour and back to hotel for breakfast. Am: In the morning drive up to Swayambhunath Stupa.The Buddhist temple of Swayambhunath, situated on the top of a hill, west of Kathmandu, is one of the most popular, holy and instantly recognizable symbols of Nepal. The temple is colloquially known as the monkey temple because of the large tribe of roving monkeys who guard the temple. Swayambhunath Stupa is a golden spire crowning a conical wooded hill. It is the most ancient and enigmatic of all the holy shrines in Kathmandu Valley. It has a lofty white dome and a glittering golden spire that are visible from all sides of the Valley.After the visit of Swyambhunath Stupa proceed for sightseeing tour of Kathmandu Durbar Square. Listed as one of the eight Cultural World Heritage site by UNESCO, Kathmandu Durbar Square is a cluster of ancient temples, palaces,courtyards and streets that date back to the 12th and 18th centuries. The square is known to be the social, religious and urban focal point of the Capital City. The Palace Complex was the royal Nepalese residence until the 19th century and was the site of important ceremonies, such as the coronation of the Nepalese monarch. We can also visit Temple of Living Goddess “Kumari”, and the Kasthamandap Temple, which is believed to be constructed from the wood of a
single tree from which Kathmandu derives its name.
Overnight at hotel. -
3: Full day Excursion and drive to Dhulikhel (1,550 m / 5,084 ft.)
Am: After breakfast, proceed for a sightseeing tour of Kathmandu City. It includes visit to the Bouddhanath Stupa, the biggest stupa in Nepal. This is also called by many as Khasti Chitya, is one of the oldest stupas in the country. The stupa, a well-known Buddhist pilgrimage site, is included in World Heritage Cultural site list by UNESCO. With diameter of about 100m and 40m height, Buddhanath holds its place among the largest Stupa in the world!
Later proceed to Pashupatinath Temple, with its astonishing architectural beauty, stands as a symbol of faith, religion, culture and tradition. Regarded as the most sacred temple of Hindu Lord Shiva in the world, Pashupatinath Temple existence dates back to 400 A.D. The richly-ornamented pagoda houses the sacred linga or phallic symbol of Lord Shiva. Thousands of pilgrims from all over the world come to pay homage to this temple that is also known as.The Temple of Living Beings, which is listed UNESCO world heritage Site.
Later continue to Bhaktapur Durbar Square, literally called “City of Devotees”, is renowned for its elegant art, fabulous culture, colorful festivals, traditional dances and the typical Newari lifestyle. Here explore the Royal Palace, the Golden Gate, and the entrance to the Palace of 55 Windows, known as the most significant piece of art in Nepal. Then visit thehighest temple in the entire Kathmandu Valley- the Nyatapola Temple. This is also listed on a UNISCO world heritage
site. After sightseeing tour drive to Dhulikhel.
Eve: Spend a relaxing evening while enjoying surrounding beauty.
Dinner and overnight at Hotel / Resort. -
4: Drive to Janakpurdham (193 km/ 6 hrs.) en-route visit Sinduligadhi War Meseum.
Early morning enjoy the sunrise from the hotel, while enjoying the outdoor breakfast. After breakfast, start 5 hours scenic drive to Janakpur, via BP Highway. En route stop at Sinduligadhigadhi to visit recently built War Meseum – which is supposed to be a first war museum of Nepal. This museum houses artifacts and weapons used during the Battle of Sindhuli (1767), in which the British army was defeated by the Gurkha army. It also displays war scenes and documentaries. The museum also houses Mithila art, historical documents and a library. After sightseeing continue to Janakpurdham via Bardibash, upon arrival room check in and lunch.
Pm: Stroll through the historic Mithila city to experience the tarai culture of southern Nepal and visit the grand Ram Janaki Temple in the center of the city that draws allusions to the famous Hindu epic Ramayana. The temple is the main attraction of the city and draws large crowds of visitors. Janakpur has been mentioned in the Ramayana as the birthplace of Sita, Ram’s consort. As Ram is believed to be the incarnation of Lord Vishnu, Sita is believed to be the incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi. It is said that Ram and Sita met in Jankpur and eventually also got married here. Janakpur is also one of the holy sites on the route of Parikarma (holy circle) which is carried out by devout Hindus as a form of worship along the Ayodhya, Kashi and Brij in India.
Dinner and overnight at hotel. -
5: Drive to Chitwan & visit Devghat - (232 km / 6~7 hrs.)
After breakfast start drive to Chitwan. Upon arrival check in at a hotel for some rest and refreshment. In the evening proceed to visit Devghat, which is a prominent pilgrimage site situated on the holy confluence of Kaligandaki and Trishuli River. There are numerous temples and Asharams. It is believe that those who take holy bath on this confluence will cleanse all your sinful deeds in this incarnation. Later transfer back to Hotel. Rest of the day is for free.
Dinner and overnight at hotel. -
6: Drive to Gorkha en-route visit Manakamana Temple and Gorkha Kalika.
After breakfast drive to Kurintar to board the Cable car to famed Manakamana Temple, which is situated in Gorkha district of Nepal. It is a sacred place of Hindu Goddess Bhagwati, an incarnation of Parvati. The name Manakamana originates from two words, “mana” which means heart and “kamana” which means wish. It is believed that if anyone makes a wish by their heart here then their wish will be fulfilled. So commonly it is also known as “goddess of wish
fulfilling”.Manakamana as explained by ancient history on 17th century is a reincarnation of the then queen of Gorkha. The queen possessed divine powers-a fact known only to Lakhan Thapa, her devotee. One day, when the king discovered that the queen was a Goddess, he suddenly died. It is said that a farmer found a stone while digging his field from which milk and blood is said to have poured into the ground. The flow ceased when Lakhan Thapa worshipped the stone with tantric rituals. The site became the foundation of the present-day shrine. According to the tradition, the
priest at the temple must be a descendent of Lakhan Thapa.Later after visiting Manakamana Temple, drive to Gorkha Kalika Temple. This stands as a beacon of spiritual devotion and cultural heritage in the heart of Gorkha, Nepal. Dedicated to the fierce goddess Kali, this Hindu temple is perched on a hilltop, offering visitors a breathtaking panoramic view of the valley below. The journey to the temple involves a scenic trek or drive nearby to temple, which itself is a rewarding experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the stunning natural beauty that Nepal is renowned for. As you ascend, you will encounter tranquil surroundings and the sounds of nature, creating a serene atmosphere ideal for reflection and prayer.
Once you reach the temple, you will be greeted by intricate carvings and vibrant offerings that showcase the rich traditions of Hindu worship. The temple& architecture reflects the artistic heritage of the region, with its unique structures and design elements that have been preserved over the years. Visitors are encouraged to explore the templegrounds, where they can witness local rituals and perhaps even participate in ceremonies that honor the goddess. This connection to local culture enriches the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing stop. Later transfer to hotel.
Rest of the day is for Leisure.
Dinner and overnight at hotel. -
7: Drive to Pokhara – 83 Km/ 3 hrs.
.Spend a leisure morning enjoying the surround beauty. Later after breakfast check out and drive to Pokhara. Upon arrival check in a hotel. Pokhara (822m/ 2,696 ft.). Pokhara is an enchanting city nestled in the tranquil valley on the laps of the mighty Annapurna Himalaya Range. With its beautiful lakes, lush green surroundings and fantastic views of the Annapurna range including the Fish Tail Mountain; it is considered one of natural finest gifts to Nepal.
After lunch proceed for a boat ride on the Lake Phewa and visit beautiful “Tal Barahi Temple” situated on the small island of Phewa lake. Later return back to hotel for rest.
Eve: Stroll around colorful Lakeside Bazaar.
Overnight at hotel. -
8: Excursion around Pokhara.
After breakfast visit Bindabasini Temple. This is one of the oldest temples in Pokhara. It has more than 250 years of history. The main deity of this Temple is Bindhyabasini Bhagwati, who is believed to be a reincarnation of Goddess Kali. There is an interesting origin story of Bindhyabasini Temple. Among them, “the then king of Kaski, Siddhinarayan Shah, reached the Vindhyachal mountain while visiting various religious sites in India. There was a discourse about the goddess in the temple’s courtyard. Hearing the glory of the goddess’s power, the king was very impressed and thought of bringing an idol of the goddess from there. After coming back, he sent his trusted people to Vindhyachal mountain to bring the idol of the goddess.
When the people who went to take the idol reached the Vindhyachal Mountain and told the king’s message to the priest, the priest told them that they had no such statues. During the same night, the priest had a dream in which he was ordered to provide the statue at any cost to the people from Kaski. The statue, which was brought in a doli, was placed in the place where the statue is currently installed in
Vindhyavasini. Later, when he tried to lift the idol, it was reported to the king that the idol did not move, and according to the king’s order, the idol of the goddess was installed there. Later proceed to Pumdikot and visit beautiful giant statue of Lord Shiva. Rest of the day is free.
Overnight at hotel. -
9: Drive to Jomsom, en-route visit Baglung Kalika and Galeshwor Dham (160 Km / 6~7 hrs.).
After breakfast start scenic drive to Jomsom. En-route visit Baglung Kalika temple. This is Situated inside a forest, the temple as a monument holds historical and religious significance. Built around 1534 by king Mani Mukunda Sen of Palpa, the temple was said to have been built by the king on the wishes of his daughter Bishrawa Sen after her marriage. There is a throng of people each Tuesday and Saturday and on Ashtami of the full moon calendar during the month of April. During every Ramnavami people huge number of people visit this temple. Later continue drive towards Jomsom and visit Galeshwor Dham. This temple stands on the large Chakra-Sila Covering an area of 9 Ropani (4578.48 meter square) near to the holy confluence of Kali Gandaki and Rahu river is considered to be very important in the Religious, historical and mythological point of view. The main shrine is also known as second Pashupatinath. Later
continue drive to Jomsom. Upon arrival check in at hotel.
Dinner and overnight at hotel. -
10: Visit Muktinath Temple and drive back to Pokhara.
Am: Early morning drive to Muktinath Temple. The famous temple of Muktinath lies in the district of Mustang and is situated 21 km north east of Jomsom at an altitude of about 3,749 meters above sea level. The temple is situated on a high mountain range and is visited during fair weather. During the festival of Janai Purnima, Hindu devotees gather here to pay homage to lord Muktinath. The visitors get lodging facilities at Dharmasala and Maharani Pouwa. Another
famous temple of Jwaladevi, the goddess of flame, is situated about hundred meters south of Muktinath. It is a great example to our world of a sacred place shared in harmony by devotees of two world religions. The traditional caretakers of the place are the Muktinath Nuns. Nepal has always been known as “a land of piety” and “the dwelling of the Gods” and many aspects of primordial history, religion, culture and tradition as well as legends and myths emanate
from the awesome Himalayas. A trek with a belief that one will attain the ultimate nirvana in Muktinath – Lord of Salvation, is undoubtedly the most “divine-trek” for all the people.The Muktinath Temple was consecrated in 1815 A.D by Queen Subarna Prabha, the wife of Rana Bahadur Shah. This temple is built in a Tibetan pagoda style and contains huge brass idols of Lord Vishnu, Shiva, Brahma and Kali. The local name for Muktinath is Chumig Gyatsa. Both Hindus and Buddhists have visited Muktinath – Chumig Gyatsa for hundreds of years and this place reflects a unique blend of Hinduism and Buddhism. Muktinath geographically speaking is a high valley located on the Mustang Bhote region. The views from Muktinath are enchanting as golden rays of the rising and setting sun are reflected by the Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri ranges. The entire panorama is filled with a golden glittering light which forms a dramatic contrast with the barren and dry mountains of the surrounding Kali Gandaki Valley. Muktinath is one of the five most important pilgrimage sites for Hindus. A trip to Muktinath is often called as a 2 in 1 trip. For western tourists, a trip to Muktinath not only provides a trek of a lifetime amidst the barren valley and
lofty Himalayan Ranges, but also gives them an opportunity to see the homogeneity of Hinduism and Buddhists in the same place. Muktinath actually lies along the route of the Annapurna circuit trek. The winding road to Muktinath passes through magnificent forests of oak and rhododendron that line the Southern foothills of the trail. In January and February these areas may be covered in snow but during March and April there will be a blaze of red rhododendron
flowers here. In Muktinath, the original fire burns in water in harmony and the rocks and soils are as they were in the beginning of time. We collect these and bring them back so that we may insert them in our chortens and in the soil of the fields to delay deterioration, restoring to some extent the qualities of the good age. Later drive back to Pokhara which will take 7~8 hrs. Upon arrival check in at hotel.
Overnight at hotel. -
11: Fly to Kathmandu & spend a free day.
Spend a leisure morning. After late breakfast transfer to Pokhara International airport to board the flight to Kathmandu. Upon arrival check in at hotel for some rest and refreshment. Later proceed stroll around Thamel market.
Overnight at hotel. -
12: Final Departure
Free until final departure transfer to Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport.
11Nights/12 Days Days From
Any Question?
Feel free to call our travel experts.
+977 9851189018, +977 9801089018
info@asiaticroads.com
11Nights/12 Days Days From
Any Question?
Feel free to call our travel experts.
+977 9851189018, +977 9801089018
info@asiaticroads.com
11Nights/12 Days Days From
Any Question?
Feel free to call our travel experts.
+977 9851189018, +977 9801089018
info@asiaticroads.com
Reviews
In my 2 week stay, John was very professional and took me around to experience all that Kathmandu and surrounding areas has to offer. Sites were seen and many locals were met through John’s network.
Steven Stone
TravellerIn my 2 week stay, John was very professional and took me around to experience all that Kathmandu and surrounding areas has to offer. Sites were seen and many locals were met through John’s network.