About Trip
Our Nepal Cultural Tour showcases two of Nepal’s most beloved places: Kathmandu and Pokhara. Kathmandu is a melting pot of dozens of ethnic groups and more than a half-dozen UNESCO World Heritage sites. You could spend years wandering the streets of Kathmandu, and still find yourself in awe every single day. The city is a sensory overload, in the best way possible. Pokhara, on the other hand, is a laid-back city that has a small-town vibe. Scattered through all parts of the city are temples, monasteries, and stupas. Near the main strip of Pokhara lies Phewa Lake. There is nothing better to do after a full day of sightseeing than to stroll on the shore of this tranquil body of water.
The tour starts in Kathmandu, a city of medieval palaces and sacred temples. We hit the must-see temples and stupas, as well as ‘old Kathmandu,’ the ancient Newari kingdoms. Visit Pashupatinath, an age-old temple as cremation ground. The ritual burning of bodies throughout the day, combined with the presence of sadhus (wandering ascetics) give this place a mysterious and alluring feel. We also check out Pashupatinath and Boudhanath, two Buddhist stupas, overflowing with a peaceful energy that must be experienced first-hand to understand.
Then, visit Kathmandu’s old Newari kingdoms. In the heart of the capital city lies Kathmandu Durbar Square (also known as Basantapur). The several tiered buildings made of intricately carved stone and wood will amaze you. Patan’s Durbar Square is equally impressive, but with more hidden courtyards to explore. Each little winding alleyway leads to another marvelous square to explore. Bhaktapur Durbar Square is a short few hours away from Kathmandu, and is teeming with Newari culture. Come check out all three on our cultural tour of Kathmandu!
Pokhara is without a doubt one of the favorite places to visit in this tiny Himalayan country, both by natives and visitors. On a clear day, the lakeside city has a pristine Himalayan backdrop. In the early morning, head to Sarangkot to watch the sun light up these mountain peaks. Over the next day and a half, visit all the cultural and spiritual treasures of Pokhara.
Visit Gupteshwor Cave, Davis Falls, Mahendra Cave, and Seti Gorge. Gupteshwor Cave is sacred cave, noted for its phallic symbol of Lord Shiva, sacred to Hindus. David Falls is a nearby waterfall that got its name from a foreign hiker that got too close to the falls and was swept away, never to be seen again. Mahendra Cave is one of the few stalagmite-stalagtite caves in Nepal, and Seti Gorge is a, narrow gorge that flows under the city. If there is leftover time, we’ll visit the famous International Mountain Museum, which exhibits everything form mountain ethnic groups all over to the world to the expedition history of the highest peaks.
Take the Nepal Cultural Tour anytime of the year. Just be aware of the climate of the area when booking your trip. Ashmita Trek and Tours arranges the tour with full management, including transportation, meals, etc. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have questions!
