Kathmandu Valley Rim Trek and Heritage Tour

Your adventure in Nepal begins the moment you land at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu. A representative from our team will be there to extend a warm welcome and will be holding a placard with your name for easy recognition. You will then drive to your comfortable 3-star hotel in a private vehicle. After settling in and taking some time to refresh, you will meet your guide for a detailed pre-trek briefing. This session will cover the itinerary for the upcoming days and provide an excellent opportunity to ask any questions you may have. This evening, I'm taking a moment to relax and prepare for the exciting days ahead.

Prepare for a captivating full-day tour that delves deep into the history and spirituality of the Kathmandu Valley. Your journey through ancient wonders will take you to six magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You will start with the iconic Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the "Monkey Temple," perched on a hilltop with panoramic views of the city. Next, you will explore the historic heart of the city at Kathmandu Durbar Square, followed by the artistic splendours of Patan Durbar Square. The tour continues to the ancient city of Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a living museum of medieval art and architecture. You will then witness the profound Hindu rituals at Pashupatinath Temple on the banks of the Bagmati River. The day culminates at the serene Bouddhanath Stupa, one of the largest stupas in the world, where you can observe monks and devotees in prayer. This comprehensive cultural immersion showcases the valley's unique synthesis of Hinduism and Buddhism.

The trekking portion of your trip commences today. After a hearty breakfast, you will take a scenic drive from your hotel to the foothills of the Shivapuri-Nagarjun National Park, the starting point of your trek. As you begin your walk, the urban landscape gives way to a tranquil environment of lush forests and diverse flora and fauna. The trail ascends through the protected national park, a sanctuary for over 177 species of birds and various rare mammals. This peaceful walk offers a refreshing escape and your first taste of trekking in the hills surrounding Kathmandu. As you gain elevation, you will see emerging views of the Himalayan range. Your destination for the day is the small, serene settlement of Chisapani, which means "cold water" in Nepali. You will settle into a cosy local teahouse for the night, enjoying the mountain hospitality.

Today is a classic day of trekking along the celebrated Kathmandu Valley Rim trail. After breakfast, your route from Chisapani to Nagarkot unfolds with breathtaking scenery. The trail meanders through dense forests of oak and rhododendron, interspersed with charming rural villages and beautifully terraced farmlands. This journey provides an intimate look into the daily lives of the local Tamang and Chhetri communities. Along the way, you will enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the majestic Himalayas. On a clear day, the vista stretches from the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges in the west to Mount Everest and Kanchenjunga in the east. The final stretch brings you to the renowned hill station of Nagarkot. Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel. You can spend the evening relaxing and anticipating the famous sunrise view.

You will wake up early this morning to witness one of the most spectacular natural displays in Nepal: the sunrise over the Himalayas from Nagarkot. As the sun ascends, it casts a brilliant golden light upon the snow-capped peaks, creating an unforgettable and awe-inspiring moment. After enjoying this magical view and a warm breakfast, you will begin your final hike. The trail descends through more terraced fields and small villages to the ancient temple of Changunarayan. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is considered the oldest temple in Nepal, rich in history and renowned for its intricate wood and stone carvings dating back to the 4th century. After exploring this architectural masterpiece, you will get back in your private vehicle for the drive back to Kathmandu. You will check into your hotel and have the rest of the evening free for last-minute souvenir shopping or to relax.

On the final day of your Nepal adventure, you will enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel in Kathmandu. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time for any last-minute activities, such as exploring the vibrant streets of Thamel or picking up some local handicrafts and souvenirs to remember your journey. We will ensure that you are transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in a comfortable private vehicle, arriving approximately three hours before your scheduled departure time. Our team will assist you with your luggage and bid you a fond farewell, concluding your memorable cultural and trekking experience in the Kathmandu Valley.