Journey Through the Himalayas between Temples and Safari

Meeting of participants with the guide at the airport for departure to Kathmandu. International flight to Kathmandu, with meals and overnight stay on board. A comfortable and relaxing journey to the heart of Nepal.

Arrival in Kathmandu, completion of customs formalities, and transfer to the hotel. In the afternoon, we begin exploring the capital of Nepal with a visit to the historic Durbar Square, the vibrant heart of the city, home to the royal palace and the residence of the living goddess, Kumari. Next, we visit the sacred hill of Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple. This ancient Buddhist stupa offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Kathmandu and its valley. After the visit, return to the hotel for dinner and overnight stay.

After breakfast, departure for Bhaktapur, known as the "City of Devotees" and the best-preserved among the three ancient capitals of the Kathmandu Valley. Walking through its narrow alleys, you will feel like stepping back in time, experiencing the atmosphere of pre-modern Nepal. Here, you can admire stunning examples of Newari architecture, including the five-tiered Nyatapola Pagoda and the historic squares of Durbar, Tumadhi, and Dattatraya. Lunch in Bhaktapur, where you'll have the opportunity to taste authentic street food, carefully selected by our guide. In the afternoon, we visit the sacred Pashupatinath, one of Hinduism’s holiest sites, where hundreds of devotees and pilgrims gather along the riverbanks to witness traditional cremation rituals. Continuing our journey, we explore the Boudhanath Stupa, the largest in Nepal and a vibrant center of Tibetan Buddhism. The area is lively, surrounded by Tibetan markets and numerous monasteries. Return to the hotel for some relaxation before enjoying a welcome dinner at a local restaurant, accompanied by a traditional dance performance.

After breakfast, departure for Chitwan National Park. Upon arrival, lunch and check-in at the reserved lodge rooms. The Royal Chitwan National Park, an extensive nature reserve in central Terai, was established in 1973 and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984. Covering an area of 932 km², the park boasts an incredible variety of landscapes, including dense jungles, grasslands, rivers, lakes, rice fields, and the distinctive Tharu villages. This park is one of the last sanctuaries for the one-horned Indian rhinoceros, a species that, despite being endangered, can often be spotted during safaris. Chitwan is also known for its tiger and leopard populations, although these elusive predators are more challenging to see. Other wildlife includes monkeys, bears, wild boars, deer, and elephants, along with an impressive diversity of birds and butterflies. In the afternoon, we will begin our activities in the park with a visit to traditional Tharu villages, where we will learn about the unique culture and lifestyle of this indigenous community. Return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the park’s natural surroundings.

Early in the morning, depart for an exciting six-hour jeep safari inside Chitwan National Park, in search of the rich wildlife that inhabits the park. The jeep safari allows us to cover vast distances, offering the opportunity to explore different areas and spot a variety of animals, including rhinos, tigers, leopards, and many other species. Return to the lodge for lunch and free time to relax: you can take a swim in the pool, stroll through the nearby Tharu village, or simply rest before the afternoon activities. In the afternoon, another thrilling experience awaits with a walking safari, providing a closer encounter with the flora and fauna, fully immersing ourselves in the wild nature of the park. Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight stay, enjoying the peace and tranquility of the park.

Early in the morning, we will have another exciting experience in Chitwan National Park with a canoe safari, navigating along the river and observing the wildlife and flora from a unique perspective. While paddling, we may spot numerous animals, including crocodiles, birds, and other species that inhabit the riverbanks and waters. Afterward, we’ll return to the lodge for breakfast and depart for Pokhara around mid-morning, with a lunch stop at a restaurant along the way. Pokhara, located south of the Annapurna mountain range, is famous for its breathtaking views of the Himalayas. On clear days, the view of the mountains, with their peaks reflecting in the Pewa Lake, is truly spectacular. We will arrive in Pokhara in the afternoon and check into our hotel. Dinner and overnight stay in the center of Pokhara. Before dinner, there will be an informational meeting to present the optional activities available the next morning, including: a helicopter flight to the Annapurna Base Camp (4,200 meters), a paragliding flight, and a helicopter tour above the Pokhara Valley, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas.

Early departure for Sarangkot, where we will have the opportunity to enjoy a breathtaking view of the Himalayas. Weather permitting, the snow-capped peaks of the Annapurna Massif, Dhaulagiri (both over 8,000 meters), and the sacred Machapuchare (6,993 meters) with its slender shape will provide a truly extraordinary spectacle. Return to the hotel for breakfast. In the afternoon, visit the Brindabshini Temple, an ancient complex dedicated to the goddess Parvati, located on top of a green hill. Afterward, we will embark on a short trek leading us to Pewa Lake, where we will experience a unique moment: crossing the lake by canoe with a stop at the sacred island in the middle of the lake, a place of worship and tranquility. Return to Pokhara, followed by free time in the afternoon for relaxation, shopping, or exploring the city. Dinner and overnight at the hotel, reflecting on a day full of emotions.

After a short drive of approximately 45 minutes, we will arrive at Phedi (1,130 m), where our trek towards Dhampus (1,740 m) will begin. This first day of trekking will lead us to the foot of the iconic Annapurna, one of the world's largest mountain ranges. The route passes through captivating terraced fields, lush green landscapes, and picturesque villages, offering stunning views at every step. Along the way, we will encounter Gurung villages, a community that keeps its unique cultural, culinary, and clothing traditions alive. As we walk, we will enjoy spectacular views of the Annapurna massif and the iconic Machhapuchhre, also known as "Fishtail" for its distinctive shape. Upon arrival in Dhampus, we will settle into our lodge for a typical dinner and overnight stay, recharging our energy before continuing our trekking adventure.

After a hearty breakfast, we will begin our trek towards the Australian Camp, passing through Pothana (1,890 m), immersed in the natural beauty of the Annapurna forests. Along the way, we will pass farms and terraced villages, with stunning views of blooming rhododendron trees. Once we reach the Australian Camp (2,100 m), we will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Annapurna massif and the sacred Machhapuchhre, also known as the "Fishtail" mountain. Originally called Thulo Kharka (great pasture), this spot was used for grazing cattle, but in the 1980s, Austrian trekkers, struck by the panoramic view, gave it its current name, mistakenly linking it to Australia. After taking in the spectacular scenery, we will begin our return journey to Dhampus, following the trail back to our base. Dinner and overnight stay at the lodge in Dhampus, where we can once again admire the grandeur of Annapurna.

We begin the day with an easy hike to Kande (1,770 m), crossing forested landscapes and the typical stone staircases that characterize this area. As we approach Kande, we'll have the opportunity to discover picturesque villages and observe local life, with the majestic Annapurna looming over us along the way. After the hike, we'll board a minivan to head to Bandipur, a charming town located at the foot of the Himalayas. Bandipur is famous for its authentic atmosphere and the warm hospitality of its people. Nestled in the tranquility of a hill, this town captivates with its traditional architectural style and the charm of an atmosphere that has preserved its local history and culture. In the late afternoon, you'll have free time to relax, shop in the pedestrian streets, or enjoy a great aperitif at one of the local cafés, immersing yourself in the daily life of the town.

After a relaxing breakfast, we will depart for Kathmandu, with a stop for lunch along the way. Upon arrival in the capital, we will spend the afternoon exploring Patan, one of the most important cities in terms of religion and culture, famous for its connection to Newar Buddhism. Here, we will have the opportunity to visit several historical temples, including the majestic Krishna Mandir, Hiranya Varna Mahavihar, Kumbeshwor, Jagatnarayan, and Rudra Varna Mahavihar, which showcase the region’s rich spirituality. Afterward, we will head to the lively and colorful Thamel district, a bustling center of life, shops, and markets, where you can immerse yourself in the local atmosphere and do some last-minute shopping before departure. The day will conclude with a return to the hotel for some relaxation and preparation for a farewell dinner, a special occasion to bid farewell to the group and Nepal, a country that has welcomed us and offered unforgettable experiences.

After breakfast at the hotel, it will be time to transfer to the airport for our return flight to Italy. During the flight, you'll have the opportunity to reflect on the incredible experience in Nepal. Meals will be served on board, and we will arrive in Italy in the evening. Before saying goodbye, there will be a farewell moment with the group and our guide, a way to close this unforgettable adventure together. End of services.