Best of Nepal

Explore the wonders of Nepal: Kathmandu’s ancient temples, jungle safaris in Chitwan, scenic Pokhara & Himalayan sunrises. Optional Mount Everest flight

Overview

$3599Tour + Flights from$2399Tour Only 10days

price per person, double occupancy*

$400 Instant Savings. Expires Sep 11, 2025.* All prices reflect savings.

$199 deposit. Lock in your spot for less.^††

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Style	Small Group TourTravel with a small, intimate group of no more than 16 likeminded travelers (and often much fewer), escorted by an English speaking guide and/or tour manager for some or all of your journey. (Some exceptions, including special promotional packages, may accommodate up to 30.) More of these packages Tour escorts & guides for some segments
Departures	February – November 2026	Group Size	16 travelers max
Themes	Active, History & Culture, Festivals
Activity Level	Advanced
What to Expect	This fast-paced, fully escorted tour involves a significant amount of walking or hiking often on uneven terrain, reaches high altitude, and long days on your feet. To fully enjoy the trip, it will require a high level of physical fitness. Travel safely and confidently with our new health & safety protocols.
Already booked?	Find everything you need to know before you go, including information about passport & visa requirements, flights, luggage, and more.

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Dates

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From sacred temples and vibrant city markets to jungle safaris and Himalayan vistas, experience the best of Nepal on this 10-day adventure. Begin in Kathmandu, where prayer wheels spin and incense fills the air. Visit ancient Boudhanath and explore Bhaktapur’s UNESCO treasures before witnessing an emotional riverside ritual at Pashupatinath. Venture into Chitwan National Park for thrilling safaris, river rides, and local village visits. Then, head to picturesque Pokhara for peaceful lake cruises and sunrise mountain views. Round out your journey with traditional performances and the artistic splendor of Patan. With included flights, expert guides, and enriching experiences every step of the way, this unforgettable journey brings Nepal’s beauty and spirit vividly to life.

Package includes

Flights
Transfers
Hotel
Meals
Guides

Round-trip flights from New York (NYC) to Kathmandu (KTM), including fuel surcharges and taxes and fees.
All ground transportation and transfers
8 nights accommodations in deluxe hotels
14 meals: 8 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 4 dinners
Comprehensive tour program including entrance fees
Professional, English-speaking tour guide

Optional add-ons

Flights from other cities are available. Request pricing when making your reservation.
Optional Morning flight over Mt. Everest

Why you'll love it

Explore Kathmandu’s Durbar Square and visit the Temple of the Living Goddess.
Ride by rickshaw through Thamel and climb to the hilltop Swayambhunath.
Tour the UNESCO-listed city of Bhaktapur and visit Kathmandu’s oldest Hindu temple.
Visit a traditional Tharu village and see a vibrant Tharu Stick Dance.
Embark on a thrilling Jeep Safari through Chitwan National Park.
Glide down the Rapti River in a traditional boat past crocodiles and water birds.
Admire the sunrise over the Annapurna mountains from Sarangkot.
Hike to the World Peace Stupa and towering Shiva Statue overlooking Pokhara.
Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on Phewa Lake.
Tour Patan, the “City of a Thousand Golden Roofs.”
Celebrate with a traditional Nepalese dinner and live folk music performance.

Itinerary at a Glance

1 Depart USA
2 Arrive Kathmandu, Nepal
3 Kathmandu
4 Bhaktapur & Kathmandu
Optional Excursion: Mt. Everest Flyover (purchased locally), $250
5 Kathmandu, Bharatpur & Chitwan
6 Chitwan
7 Chitwan, Bharatpur & Pokhara
8 Pokhara & Kathmandu
9 Patan & Kathmandu
10 Depart Kathmandu/Arrive USA

Dates & Prices

Instant Savings: Get $400 off if you book by Sep. 11, 2025!

Dates & Prices, with flights per person, double occupancy*, including Instant Savings discounts
2026 DEPARTURES
Dates	Regular Price	Instant Savings	Your Price
Departs U.S.: Mon, Feb 16, 2026 Finishes: Wed, Feb 25, 2026 Book by Thu, Sep 11, 2025 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings! Feb 16 – Feb 25	$3999	–$400	$3599	Select
Departs U.S.: Tue, Mar 17, 2026 Finishes: Thu, Mar 26, 2026 Book by Thu, Sep 11, 2025 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings! Mar 17 – Mar 26	$3999	–$400	$3599	Select
Departs U.S.: Wed, Sep 9, 2026 Finishes: Fri, Sep 18, 2026 Book by Thu, Sep 11, 2025 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings! Sep 9 – Sep 18	$3999	–$400	$3599	Select
Departs U.S.: Sat, Sep 12, 2026 Finishes: Mon, Sep 21, 2026 Book by Thu, Sep 11, 2025 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings! Sep 12 – Sep 21	$3999	–$400	$3599	Select
Departs U.S.: Sat, Oct 31, 2026 Finishes: Mon, Nov 9, 2026 Book by Thu, Sep 11, 2025 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings! Oct 31 – Nov 9	$3999	–$400	$3599	Select

Dates & Prices, tour only per person, double occupancy*, including Instant Savings discounts
2026 DEPARTURES
Dates	Regular Price	Instant Savings	Your Price
Starts: Tue, Feb 17, 2026 Finishes: Wed, Feb 25, 2026 Book by Thu, Sep 11, 2025 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings! Feb 17 – Feb 25	$2799	–$400	$2399	Select
Starts: Wed, Mar 18, 2026 Finishes: Thu, Mar 26, 2026 Book by Thu, Sep 11, 2025 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings! Mar 18 – Mar 26	$2799	–$400	$2399	Select
Starts: Thu, Sep 10, 2026 Finishes: Fri, Sep 18, 2026 Book by Thu, Sep 11, 2025 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings! Sep 10 – Sep 18	$2799	–$400	$2399	Select
Starts: Sun, Sep 13, 2026 Finishes: Mon, Sep 21, 2026 Book by Thu, Sep 11, 2025 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings! Sep 13 – Sep 21	$2799	–$400	$2399	Select
Starts: Sun, Nov 1, 2026 Finishes: Mon, Nov 9, 2026 Book by Thu, Sep 11, 2025 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings! Nov 1 – Nov 9	$2799	–$400	$2399	Select

If you want a few extra days to explore on your own, we may be able to arrange for you to stay later than the scheduled dates, including extra hotel nights and separate airport transfers, for an additional charge. Ask us about prices and availability when (or after) you book. More information Want to extend your trip?

Options & Fees

Best of Nepal
Rooming Selection
Double Occupancy	included
Single Occupancy	$449

Transfers for Passengers Booking Tour Only
Optional Airport Transfers¹
Arrival Transfer: Kathmandu airport to hotel	$15
Arrival Transfer: Hotel to Kathmandu airport	$15

1. Price based on a minimum of two passengers.

So that we can offer you the best deals, our packages are, like most hotels and cruises, priced based on double occupancy rooms or cabins. We charge solo travelers an extra fee to cover the extra costs of single occupancy rooms or cabins. (Consider: if you booked a $200/night hotel room solo, you would pay the $200 yourself; but if a couple booked the same room, each one would pay only $100.) But you only pay extra for the rooms or cabins, nothing else, including meals, sightseeing, tips, etc. Why are single rooms more?

Flights & Departure Cities

Departure Airports
New York City (NYC)	included

This package includes round-trip flights from the city listed above. Please review the flight schedule, especially if you're booking connecting flights.

Want to fly from another city? We can arrange flights from most major cities. Ask us for a quote for flights from your preferred city when (or after) you book, and we'll get back to you with the price and availability within 3 business days. Of course, you can also book your own flights. More information

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 Depart USA

Depart the USA for your overnight flight to Kathmandu, Nepal

Day 2 Arrive Kathmandu, Nepal

Arrive in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal
Meet our representative and transfer to the hotel
Join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner

Dusit Princess or similar Dinner

Full Day Itinerary

Namaste! Welcome to Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, which has an approximate altitude of 4,600 ft. On arrival, clear immigration, collect your luggage, and pass through customs. Upon exiting the terminal, look for our representative holding a Friendly Planet Travel sign. After a warm welcome, you'll be escorted to your hotel, where you can take time to settle in and relax.

This evening, join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner at Dechenling Garden Restaurant. Savor a meal inspired by Nepalese flavors with a complimentary glass of wine, beer, or soft drink to toast the beginning of an incredible journey.

Day 3 Kathmandu

Visit Boudhanath and observe the ritual of Kora
Explore the historic Durbar Square
Travel by rickshaw to Thamel
Admire Swayambhunath, the "Monkey Temple"
Spend the evening at leisure

Dusit Princess or similar Breakfast

Full Day Itinerary

This morning, visit Boudhanath, one of the world’s largest stupas and a revered pilgrimage site known for its Tibetan community and vibrant monasteries. Observe the ritual of Kora, where devout Buddhists circle the stupa, chanting “OM MANE PADME HUM.” To complete your experience, light a butter lamp—a tradition symbolizing gratitude and reflection.

Continue to Kathmandu’s historic Durbar Square, the former royal residence and now home to ancient temples and shrines. Take in the lively Asan Market filled with vendors, flute sellers, and a bustling bead market. Don’t miss a visit to the Temple of the Living Goddess, hoping for a glimpse of the Kumari.

Later, travel by rickshaw to Thamel, the city's popular nightlife area and a lively, visitor-friendly Kathmandu district. Here, you'll find traditional houses, fountains, markets, and shops that sell colorful jewelry, handicrafts, and more. Enjoy some free time to explore this fascinating neighborhood.

In the afternoon, visit Swayambhunath, the "Monkey Temple," perched on a hill with sweeping views of the valley. This ancient stupa is alive with pilgrims spinning prayer wheels and chanting—a peaceful finale to your day of discovery in Kathmandu.

Return to your hotel for an evening at leisure.

Day 4 Bhaktapur & Kathmandu

Join an optional morning flight over Mt. Everest
Explore the highlights of Bhaktapur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Visit Kathmandu's oldest Hindu temple, Pashupatinath
Witness Bagmati Aarati, an evening ritual on the riverbanks
Spend the evening at leisure

Dusit Princess or similar Breakfast

Full Day Itinerary

Early this morning, have the opportunity to experience an optional Mt. Everest scenic flight over the Himalayas, weather permitting.

After breakfast, begin your day with a visit to Bhaktapur, a charming Newar city and renowned handicraft center famous for its pottery, thangka paintings, and traditional yogurt. Located a little over 12 miles east of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur’s Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an architectural gem featuring medieval wood, stone, and metal art. Highlights include the Golden Gate, Lion’s Gate, the Palace of Fifty-Five Windows, and the iconic five-story Nyatapola Temple. This "City of Devotees" is like an open museum, offering a timeless glimpse into Nepal’s rich heritage.

Later, visit Pashupatinath, Kathmandu's oldest Hindu temple, located along the sacred Bagmati River. Revered as the "Temple of Living Beings" honoring Lord Shiva, many thousands of pilgrims worldwide come to pay homage here annually. Conclude your visit by witnessing the captivating Bagmati Aarati, an evening ritual on the riverbanks, where devotees chant, light oil lamps, and offer prayers.

Return to your hotel for an evening at leisure.

Optional Excursion: Mt. Everest Flyover (purchased locally), $250

Early this morning, have the opportunity to embark on an unforgettable optional scenic flight over the majestic Mt. Everest and the awe-inspiring Himalayas. Weather permitting, this once-in-a-lifetime adventure offers unparalleled views that will leave you breathless.

Note: This optional excursion must be purchased locally.

Day 5 Kathmandu, Bharatpur & Chitwan

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Bharatpur, the gateway to Chitwan National Park
Enjoy lunch at the resort
Observe the daily life and unique traditions at a local Tharu Village
View a slide-show presentation by a jungle expert to learn about the history of Chitwan National Park

Jungle Villa Resort or similar Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Full Day Itinerary

After breakfast, transfer to Kathmandu domestic airport for your flight to Bharatpur, the gateway to Chitwan National Park. Upon arrival, meet your naturalist guide and drive to your hotel. After check-in, you'll receive a briefing on the lodge facilities and jungle activities. Chitwan National Park is Nepal's first national park, established in 1973 to preserve its rich ecosystem. Spanning 579 square miles of pristine subtropical lowlands, Chitwan is a sanctuary for 68 species of mammals, 544 species of birds, and 126 species of fish. This picturesque area is home to dense forests, marshlands, meadows, and the Narayani-Rapti River, which naturally separates the park from nearby settlements.

Enjoy a relaxing lunch at the resort as you prepare for the adventure that awaits in Nepal's wild, untouched landscapes.

Later this afternoon, visit a local Tharu village to explore this resilient community's unique lifestyle, culture, and history. Known as the "people immune to malaria," the Tharu are the oldest tribe in the region, having survived malaria outbreaks that once ravaged the area. Their homes, crafted from bamboo and mud and adorned with colorful handprints, reflect their deep connection to the land. Today, many Tharu people work in agriculture, fishing, and cattle rearing.

Later, enjoy a slideshow presentation by a jungle expert covering the history of Chitwan National Park and its fascinating wildlife.

Enjoy dinner and overnight at your resort.

Day 6 Chitwan

Venture deep into the forest on an exciting Jeep Safari
See the endangered Gharial crocodile at the Crocodile Conservation Project
Glide down the Rapti River in a traditional patela boat
Witness a lively Tharu Stick Dance performance

Jungle Villa Resort or similar Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Full Day Itinerary

In the morning, embark on an exciting Jeep Safari, one of Chitwan's must-do activities. Led by an expert naturalist guide and skilled driver, you'll venture deep into the forest, exploring the hidden magic of the jungle. Keep an eye out for deer, wild boar, sloth bear, hyena, leopard, and, with luck, the elusive Royal Bengal tiger. Along the way, your naturalist guide will introduce you to the park's diverse flora and birdlife.

Afterward, return to the hotel to relax before lunch.

In the afternoon, visit the Crocodile Conservation Project, which is dedicated to protecting the endangered Gharial crocodile, known for its narrow snout. Established in 1971, this center breeds Gharials and releases them into the wild to support population growth.

Continue your Chitwan adventure with a tranquil 45-minute ride down the Rapti River in a traditional patela boat, gliding silently past aquatic birds, crocodiles, otters, and other wildlife along the riverbanks. With expert oarsmen guiding the boat and naturalists sharing insights, this experience brings you up close to the river's ecosystem and Chitwan's diverse wildlife.

Afterward, return to the resort to relax.

In the evening, enjoy a lively Tharu Stick Dance performance, where local farmers showcase their traditional skills and folk dances. Enjoy dinner and overnight at your resort.

Day 7 Chitwan, Bharatpur & Pokhara

Transfer to the Bharatpur airport for a short flight to Pokhara
Browse the local foods, crafts, and textiles at Pokhara’s Old Bazaar
Explore the interior of Devi’s Fall and admire the statues and shrines
Spend the evening at leisure

Temple Tree Resort & Spa or similar Breakfast

Full Day Itinerary

This morning, bid farewell to Chitwan as you transfer to Bharatpur for a short flight to Pokhara. Upon arrival, board your touring coach and transfer to your hotel.

Pokhara, a beautiful city known for its serene lakes and adventure options, is nestled between lush, green hills and Lake Phewa, whose calm waters reflect the majestic Annapurna range, including the iconic Machhapuchhare peak which has never been climbed to its summit.

This afternoon, explore Pokhara's Old Bazaar, a bustling major trade center dating back to the 1770s. Today, the Bazaar offers plenty of local foods, crafts, textiles, spices, and more, where bargaining before you buy is the rule. Continue to Devi's Fall, a unique waterfall flowing into Gupteshwor Cave, Nepal's longest cave and one of Southeast Asia's oldest. The cave has cultural as well as religious significance, and as you explore the interior, you'll view statues and shrines as well as other natural and man-made formations.

In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll around the lake area, the heart of Pokhara’s nightlife scene, with plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Day 8 Pokhara & Kathmandu

Experience sunrise over the Annapurna range in Sarangkot
Back at the hotel, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and free time
Visit the World Peace Stupa on Anadu Hill
Hike to Pumdikot to see the towering Shiva Statue
Enjoy a scenic boat ride on Phewa Lake
Transfer to the airport for a short flight to Kathmandu
Spend the evening at leisure

Dusit Princess or similar Breakfast

Full Day Itinerary

Early this morning, drive to Sarangkot, a tiny village famous for its spectacular sunrise over the Annapurna range. Admire dramatic peaks like Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare, as the sun transforms them from soft purple hues to glowing gold. Afterward, return to the hotel for a leisurely breakfast and free time.

Later, visit the World Peace Stupa on Anadu Hill, overlooking Phewa Lake and framed by the Annapurna mountains. This serene monument, surrounded by trekking trails, offers breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere.

Continue with a hike to Pumdikot to see the towering Shiva Statue, the tallest in Pokhara (4,920 ft. above sea level), complete with Asia’s largest damaru drum. After enjoying the views, hike back to the Peace Stupa and descend to Phewa Lake’s shore. Here, enjoy a boat ride on the lake, a scenic highlight of Pokhara.

In the late afternoon, transfer to Pokhara’s domestic airport for a short flight back to Kathmandu.

Upon arrival, meet with your representative and transfer to your hotel for an evening at leisure.

Day 9 Patan & Kathmandu

Journey to Patan, The City of a Thousand Golden Roofs
Enjoy free time to explore the Thamel area of Kathmandu
Witness a live performance of Nepalese folk music and dance during a farewell dinner with your fellow travelers

Dusit Princess or similar Breakfast & dinner

Full Day Itinerary

Enjoy a free morning.

This afternoon, venture to Patan. Known locally as The City of a Thousand Golden Roofs, it is an artist’s haven with intricate narrow streets and historic charm. Marvel at the traditional brick houses adorned with carved wooden balconies and bronze decorations, which give the city its unique, theatrical feel. Known throughout Nepal for its blacksmithing and goldsmithing heritage, Patan is where artisans skillfully craft statues of Hindu and Buddhist deities. Here, you’ll see more than 50 temples, some of which survived the 2015 earthquake, and numerous stupas, chaityas, and bahals (ancient Buddhist monasteries) that reflect the long history of Newar Buddhism.

Continue to the bustling Thamel area of Kathmandu and enjoy some free time to explore. This vibrant neighborhood blends culture, shopping, and cuisine, perfect for finding unique souvenirs, relaxing at a café, or taking in the local scene.

This evening, gather for a farewell dinner at Bhojan Griha Restaurant, where you'll taste traditional Nepalese hospitality. Savor authentic local dishes as you enjoy a live performance of Nepalese folk music and dance. Adorned in beautiful, traditional costumes, the performers will share Nepal's rich cultural heritage through music and dance, bringing Nepal's diverse traditions to life.

Drive back to the hotel for your overnight.

Day 10 Depart Kathmandu/Arrive USA

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your return flight to the USA

Breakfast

Hotels

Dusit Princess

Deluxe

The Dusit Princess Hotel is nestled in the heart of Kathmandu, offering a tranquil escape with its traditional Nepalese architecture and lush garden surroundings. Guests can enjoy luxurious amenities, including a spa, outdoor swimming pool, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic city views.

More information

Jungle Villa Resort

First Class

Jungle Villa Resort is located at the northern edge of the Chitwan National Park, on the banks of the Rapti River, providing guests with splendid nature views and wildlife sightings from almost everywhere on the property.

More information

Temple Tree Resort & Spa

Deluxe

Temple Tree Resort & Spa is ideally located in Lake Side, overlooking Phewa Lake and the towering Himalayas.

More information

In the unlikely event that a particular hotel is not available, a similar or better hotel may be substituted.

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Trip Details

What should I know before I go? We've compiled a comprehensive checklist, including information on how to pay your balance due, flights & transfers, packing & luggage, and more.
Do I need a visa or other documents? Are there any entry requirements? Please review the visa & entry requirements.
Can I make changes to my trip? Want to upgrade your seats? Depart from another city? Stay a few extra days? Something else? Just ask!
Can I bring my kids? Are there any age restrictions? To book this package, you must be 18 or older. Your traveling companions must be 8 or older at time of travel.
Should I purchase travel insurance? Yes! We recommend you purchase travel insurance to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. For your convenience, we offer a plan provided by Travelex Insurance Services.
What's the fine print? Review the terms & conditions for this package.
What should I know about Nepal? Check out our guide for practical travel tips, the best time to go, videos, and more.