Mild Hiking and Monastery Visit Tour to Nepal

Overview
Highlight
Detailed Itinerary
Price includes/excludes

Duration
12 Days
Starts from
Kathmandu
Ends at
Kathmandu
Trip type
Tours in Nepal

Trip Grade

Moderate

Embark on a serene journey that intertwines the spiritual tranquility of Nepal’s sacred monasteries with the natural splendor of its gentle hiking trails. The “Mild Hiking and Monastery Visit Tour to Nepal” is a meticulously crafted experience designed to immerse you in the cultural heartbeat and breathtaking landscapes of this Himalayan gem.

Monastery Visit Tour to Nepal

The tour begins in the bustling streets of Kathmandu, where ancient temples stand alongside modern-day structures, creating a vibrant tapestry of life that captivates every traveler. As you venture through the city’s sacred sites, you’ll be enveloped in the mystique of centuries-old stupas and palaces, each telling a story of Nepal’s illustrious past.

Moving beyond the city limits, the tour takes you through quaint towns like Bandipur and Hemja, where the charm of Nepal’s rural life unfolds before you. The experience is enriched by stays in monasteries, where the rhythms of monastic life and the gentle chants of evening prayers offer a tranquil retreat from the world outside.

The mild hikes on this tour are designed to be leisurely and accessible, allowing you to fully absorb the breathtaking vistas that Nepal is renowned for. Trails meander through lush forests and lead to vantage points like the Peace Stupa, revealing panoramic views that stretch across the horizon.

In places like Gorkha and Dhulikhel, the tour delves into the heart of Nepal’s heritage, with visits to historic palaces and temples that are as much a journey through time as they are a feast for the senses. The spiritual odyssey continues in Namobuddha and Balthali, where the serenity of the monasteries and the simplicity of the countryside life blend seamlessly.

As the tour to Nepal concludes, you’ll find yourself carrying a piece of Nepal in your heart, with memories of its majestic mountains, the tranquility of its monasteries, and the warmth of its people. The “Mild Hiking and Monastery Visit Tour to Nepal” is more than just a holiday; it’s an experience that will touch your spirit and inspire a sense of peace and wonder.

Trip Highlights

Cultural Exploration: Discover the rich tapestry of Nepal’s history through its UNESCO World Heritage Sites and bustling local markets.
Spiritual Encounters: Participate in monastery rituals and meditation sessions, offering a glimpse into the soul of Nepalese Buddhism.
Scenic Hikes: Traverse gentle trails that offer stunning views of Nepal’s landscape, suitable for all levels of hikers.
Architectural Wonders: Marvel at the intricate craftsmanship of ancient temples and palaces that have withstood the test of time.
Local Interaction: Engage with the warm and welcoming locals, whose stories and smiles add depth to your travel experience.

Trip Detailed itinerary

Day

01

Arrival in Kathmandu. Full day sightseeing of Swyambhunath Stupa, Kathmandu Durbar Square and Patan City. O/N Kathmandu
After arrival we check to hotel and freshen up and then go of sightseeing as follows :
- Swoyambhunath
The Swyambhunath Stupa is one of the holiest Buddhist sites in Nepal and is situated at the mound. From this Stupa you can closely look at the settlement pattern in Kathmandu and have a close look at the Chaityas and Monasteries which circles the main stupa of Swyambhunath. This stupa also relates itself to the history of creation of Kathmandu Valley as how Manjushree, a Buddhist monk, saw a huge lotus emanating bright light at the centre of the lake. So he cut a deep gorge allowing the water to drain from the lake because he wanted to observe and worship the lotus where it is said that Swyambhunath is situated.
- Kathmandu Durbar Square
Kathmandu Durbar Square welcomes you to the palaces, courtyards and temples built between 12th to 18th centuries where the then Kings used to live and the coronations of Shaha dynasty Kings used to take place. You might be amazed with the number of temples and architectural styles that you see in this courtyard. Moreover, you might also get the glimpse of Kumari, a living goddess, whose residence is within this courtyard.
- Patan :
The interesting old town has the shape of a rectangle bordered by four Buddhist stupas. On the Durbar
Square we see again beautiful examples of medieval Nepalese architecture.

We visit the royal palace and Krishna Mandir, one of the most beautiful temples in Nepal, the only one completely built in stone.
Visit to a female (nature) priest / shaman

If your clients are interested, we can arrange a visit to a female healer or shaman, which performs animistic rituals. In Nepal religions are always intertwined,
so there could be some elements of Buddhism or Hinduism in her rituals.
Day

02

Full day sightseeing of Pasupatinath Temple Boudhanath Stupa and Bhaktapur City. O/N at Kathmandu
Today we have full day sightseeing of heritage sites and temple as follows:
- Pashupatinath,
One of the holiest temple of Hindu deities Lord Shiva, has a golden roof and silver doors and is built in pagoda style. The temple is in the mid of green forest and the river Bagmati on whose bank Hindus are cremated is flowing on its side. People except Hindu are not allowed to enter the main courtyard of the temple but can be viewed from the eastern bank of the river. During the evening there is a Arati pooja in pashupati which starts around 6 pm The priests perform the Aarati by taking oil lamps and moving them in circular motion and dedicating their act to the Divine. Bhajan (songs with religious theme) are sung by devotees during the Aarati, creating blissful surrounding. The priests perform the Aarati by taking oil lamps and moving them in circular motion and dedicating their act to the Divine. Bhajan (songs with religious theme) are sung by devotees during the Aarati, creating blissful surrounding.
- Bouddhanath
Bouddhanath Stupa not only takes you to the journey to the ancient and world’s biggest Stupa or to Buddhist Pilgrimage sites but also exposes you to the Tibetan communities within Nepal. Along with monasteries and devotees chanting religious hymns and playing prayer wheels you will also get to be close with the young boys and girls devoted to be Buddhist Monk which gives you a different perspective about life.
- Bhaktapur Durbar Square
This durbar square will mesmerize you with the beauty of different temples and palaces. You will not only be able to see the spectacular view of 15th century architecture but also will be acquainted with the palaces and the courtyard of the ancient times. The golden gates, wooden palace studded with 55 windows, Batsala temple, Shiva temple and the National Art Gallery are the major attractions of this square. Moreover, you might not want to miss out the five storied Nyatapola Temple built in 17th century; adding on to its structure are the pair of two wrestlers, two elephants, two lions, two griffins and goddess’s tigress & lioness in each storey making it the most tallest pagoda style temple exhibiting the immense creativity and craftsmanship of Nepali in those centuries.
Day

03

Drive from Kathmandu to Bandipur. Walk around the old city of bandipur. Overnight in Bandipur

After breakfast drive to Bandipur. A very scenic drive lasts for nearly about 5 hrs through the beautiful riverbanks & gorges. After reaching to Bandipur, Rest at Hotel or walk leisurely around Beautiful Bandipur town & local market. Bandipur is one of old Newari settlement located at Hill station close to prithvi Highway. The old town is able or preserve and maintain it’s cultural look and beauty. We will explore the town by walking because vehicle is prohibited to maintain it’s beauty. Bandipur also offers nice mountain view if weather permits.
Day

04

Drive from Bandipur to Hemja. Visit a monastery in Hemja and eat dinner in the moanestry.O/N in monastery

After breakfast we drive from bandipur to Hemja (2 and half hour drive). Lunch enroute . Check in Monastery in Hemja around Rest and refresh before the Dinner with Monks & O/N at Monastery Guest House in Hemja.
Day

05

Full day in Monastery with activities like meditation in the pooja offering room.
Today we perform the following activities in the monastery:
- Puja participation
- Breakfast
- Meditation
- Monastery visit
- Free time in Monastery or Short Hike around Hemja Village
- Dharma Debate
- Dinner in Guest House O/N at Monastery Guest House in Hemja.
Day

06

Drive to Phumdi. Hike from Phumdi to Peace Stupa. Drive from Peace stupa to Pokhara. O/N at Pokhara.

After breakfast we drive from hemja to phumdi. Then we hike to peace stupa which is about 3 hours hike. The hike offers insight into the rural life and also offer views of mountains if the weather permits. Upon reaching peace stupa we will witness it as a stunning monument which is symbol of peace and Buddhism. Peace stupa is located at a hilltop and hence it provides splendid view of Pokhara City.
Day

07

Drive from Pokhara to Gorkha. Gorkha palace visit. O/N in Gorkha

After breakfast, we drive from Pokhara to Gorkha which is about 4-5hours drive. Upon reaching Gorkha and checking in hotel we freshen up and go visiting Gorkha Palace.

Gorkha Durbar, also known as Gorkha Palace, is a historic palace situated in the town of Gorkha The palace was built in the 17th century by King Ram Shah of the Shah dynasty and was the seat of power for the Kingdom of Gorkha until the mid-19th century. The darbar meaning palace is situated on the top of the hill and is surrounded by beautiful mountains. It is considered as a symbol of Nepali culture and history. Since during 17^th and 18^th centuries this palace was one of the major kingdoms of Nepal it has immense historical significance.
Day

08

Drive to Kathmandu. Free day in Kathmandu. O/N in Kathmandu

After breakfast, we drive from Gorkha to Kathmandu which is approximately 7 hours drive.
Day

09

Drive from Kathmandu to Dhulikhel. Visit Kali Temple. O/N at Dhulikhel.

Wake up call at 0700 hrs , Breakfast at 0730 hr to 0800 hrs and we start driving ( 0900 hrs) toward Dhulikhel ( 27 KM – 1 hour drive ). Check in Hotel in Dhulkhlel.

Start hiking in dhulikhel ( around 1100 hrs ) of Kali Temple and surroundings. Hiking will be around 2hrs to Kali temple and surrounding village. We will see the magnificient, Hilly landscape, Mountain View and visit local village around. We will return to Hotel or will enjoy lunch in any nice restaurant. Return hotel and relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery from Hotel itself. Free time in Hotel for the rest of the day.
Day

10

Drive from Dhulikhel to Namobuddha. Visit Namobuddha Monastery and observe puja and other ceremony. Hike from Namobuddha to Balthali. O/N at Balthali.

Today, after having our breakfast we drive 2 and half hours and reach the Tibetan pilgrimage site of Namobuddha (1,750 m). Here the guests are welcomed in one of the oldest monastery by monks. We then explore the monastery and the beautiful mandalas and frescoes and learn about Tibetan Buddhism. The monks will explain about the history and about Buddhism. Our guides will translate we then hike down easily accessible paths to our overnight stay in Balthali (1,780 m).

We pass small villages, see farmers in their fields and can’t help but see the mountains in the distance. We reach our accommodation in the early afternoon, our guide will give you tips for a late lunch. Enjoy the wonderful view of the surrounding village from our accommodation – everyday life seems far away here.
Day

11

Hike from Balthali to Khopasi. Drive Khopasi to Panauti. Visit Panauti, drive from Panauti to Kathmandu. O/N at Kathmandu.

Breakfast is served around 7:30 am after breakfast we start our hike for 1 hr 10 minutes from Balthali to Khopasi it is an easy hike. We then drive to Panauti for 10minutes and do sightseeing at Panauti which is an old city where we can see local traditional lifestyle of Newari community. In the afternoon we are free to do some last minute shopping.
Day

12

Departure transfer

Trip Price details

Price includes

4 O/N in Hotel Tibet or Similar on B/B in Kathmandu
1 O/N in Bandipur Village Inn or Similar on B/B in Bandipur
2 O/N in Pema Tsal Guest House on full board in Hemja
1 O/N in Hotel White Pearl or Similar on B/B in Pokhara
1 O/N in Gorkha Garden hotel or Similar on B/B in Gorkha
1 O/N in Aagantuk Resort or Similar on B/B in Dhulikhel
1 O/N in Balthali Mountain Resort or Similar on B/B in Balthali
German speaking Tour Guide from Arrival till Departure
All transfers, Sightseeing and Ground Transportation by A/C vehicle
Entrance fees for Cities and Monuments as per Itinerary

Hotels envisaged for Mild Hiking with Monastery Visit

Hotel in Kathmandu: https://hoteltibetintl.com/
Hotel in Bandipur: https://www.bandipurvillageinn.com/
Hotel in Pokhara: https://www.whitepearlnepal.com/
Hotel in Gorkha: https://gorkhagardenhotel.com/
Hotel in Dhulikhel: https://www.aagantukresort.com/
Hotel in Balthali: https://www.balthali.com/

Trip Reviews

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 32 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Tal T 
 
 
 
 Verified Customized Itinerary in Nepal They put together a splendid itinerary for us to see different parts of Nepal that was tailored to our wants and needs, and the team on the ground was very responsive to changes that were happening in real-time, such as the change of weather, and moving our flights around. Great experience
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Verena S 
 
 
 
 Verified Wonderful trekking tour with Annapurna view We had a very successful trekking tour to Mardi Himal Basecamp. The view was great. Our guide Lak took wonderful care of us and organized everything perfectly.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Dani67Selva 
 
 
 
 Verified Nepal not only tracking Cultural and historical visit to Nepal. Even without tracking, through the agency, we visited some great places. From Pokahara with its lake of great peace, underground caves and waterfall in the city center. Chitwan National Park, where we admired numerous rhinos, crocodiles, monkeys, fallow deer, wild boars and numerous species of birds. Kathmandu, beyond the particular city center Themal with numerous shops at great prices we walked the streets of three old towns. One the old capital, the oldest town dates back to 3400 BC. The funeral center, an intimate experience, on the bank of the sacred river place the bodies on wooden pyres and after a short ritual cremate them then throwing the ashes into the river. Not least and touching is the visit to the Buddhist temple of Boudhanath, turn around and admire it leaves a great peace inside and reflects the smile of the Nepalese people.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Lukasz 
 
 
 
 Verified Świetnie zorganizowany trekking w Nepalu, zwiedzanie Katmandu, wizyta w Parku Narodowym Chitwan Przeżyliśmy wspaniałą przygodę w Nepalu w czasie wędrówki - trekkingu na Poon Hill. Całość trekkingu zorganizowała Dla nas ta agencja. Prowadził nas doświadczony przewodnik pan Raj, towarzyszyło nam dwóch porterów, szerpów. Pan Raj doskonale się nami opiekował, świetnie znał trasę, bardzo dobrze orientował się w realiach panujących na trasie trekkingu. Dzięki jego pomocy, pomocy naszych porterów szczęśliwie doszliśmy na Poon Hill.Przy pięknej pogodzie podziwialiśmy Panoramę Himalajów o różnej porze dnia w różnym oświetleniu. Wyprawa była trochę męcząca ze względu na dużą liczbę schodów po drodze, ale tak dobrze zaplanowana, że nie stanowiło to dla nas problemu. Na pewno będziemy korzystać jeszcze z usług tej agencji w Nepalu. Dodatkowo agencja przygotowała dla nas zwiedzanie Katmandu, dawnych stolic w Dolinie Katmandu, wyprawę do PARKU NARODOWEGO CHITWAN. Jeśli będę jeszcze w Nepalu na pewno skorzystam z opieki i pomocy tej właśnie agencji Bardzo dziękuję właścicielowi agencji, a SZCZEGÓLNE podziękowania dla pana Raja i naszych porterów, dzięki którym przeżyliśmy tak wspaniałą przygodę w Himalajach.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Climber25632517457 
 
 
 
 Verified Mardi Himal Treck We are very pleased with our guide Rai and our two Porter Rai and Asis. They accompanied us on the whole Mardi Himal trek and looked after us excellently and courteously.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Prayas D 
 
 
 
 Verified Event organization They helped us to organize a welcome event for our college students. They paid attention to details and helped us with the event organization with perfection.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Thomas H 
 
 
 
 Verified A very well organized holiday. The team from Euro-Asia was perfect. They organized a good hotel in Kathmandu and sightseeing tour through Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur. The main part of our holidays was a trekking trip to Langtang and Goisakunde. The team from Euro-Asia made this an unforgettable event. They organized good lodges, helped us in any situation, brought us on top of Tsergo Ri and over the Laurebina pass.We were a group of five friends. We found new friends in Nepal!I was for the third time in Nepal and will come back!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Vanessa C 
 
 
 
 Verified An unforgettable Holliday in Nepal Their service is very good, they are avaliable for answer any doubt before your trip. The guides are very professional and gave us a lot of useadvices. I couldn't imagine to have a better time in a Holliday in Nepal. Thanks for all.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Hilli S 
 
 
 
 Verified Nepal Nepal ist ein faszinierendes Land mit Gegensätzen. Die Natur so schön, die Menschen sind freundlich und immer hilfsbereit. Die Straßen sind noch ausbaufähig. Ich war 15 Tage dort und habe auch Armut gesehen. Das regt zu Hause zum Nachdenken an.Ich werde eines Tages wieder kommen. Danke an alle, die meinen Urlaub zu einem nie vergessendem Erlebnis gemacht haben. Alle anderen: Fahrt dort hin und erlebt die Faszination. Ich liebe Nepal.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Akshay C 
 
 
 
 Verified Service I loved the package Nepal is beautiful Especially pokhara and chitaan. Would love to visit again and again