The Wonders of Nepal during Dashain Festival

You depart on a scheduled flight to Kathmandu, gateway to the Himalaya and heart of Nepalese culture.

After breakfast, you leave Kathmandu for Dakshinkali, home to a powerful temple dedicated to the goddess Kali. The site is deeply symbolic, especially during festive periods. You then ascend Pharping Hill, where sweeping views open over the Himalayan range, accompanied by the peaceful presence of a Buddhist monastery. Lunch is a traditional vegetarian Nepali meal. The journey continues to Kirtipur, a quiet and atmospheric town that reflects the grandeur of its past through medieval temples scattered along narrow streets. You visit the Bagh Bhairab Temple, dedicated to the tiger deity Bhairab, and Chilanchu Vihara, perched on a hilltop with its central stupa surrounded by four smaller ones. On the return to Kathmandu, you stop at the Chobar Gorge, an impressive natural formation overlooking the valley.

After breakfast, you set off on a gentle walk from Nagarkot to Nala, passing through Tamang and Chettri villages and rural landscapes shaped by daily life. Upon arrival in Nala, you visit the Bhagaveti Temple before continuing to Bhaktapur. This beautifully preserved medieval city is one of the cultural jewels of the Kathmandu Valley. As the day progresses and visitors leave, the atmosphere becomes calmer, allowing you to fully appreciate its squares, temples, and traditional pottery workshops.

The day is devoted to discovering Chitwan and its surroundings. Activities may include walks through nature or visits to nearby villages to learn about local life. You may also choose a jeep safari to observe wildlife in its natural habitat, or a canoe ride along the river to spot crocodiles and a wide variety of birds. Chitwan offers a rare chance to experience Nepal’s wild side in a peaceful and immersive way.

An early start takes you to Sarangkot to witness sunrise over the Annapurna range, a moment filled with light and emotion as the mountains slowly reveal themselves. A short and easy walk allows you to enjoy the landscape before returning for breakfast. Later, you enjoy a boat ride on Phewa Lake and visit the Barahi Temple on its small island. You explore the Tibetan village of Tashiling and attend a prayer ceremony at the Hemja Monastery. The International Mountain Museum offers insight into Himalayan culture and mountaineering history. This day is also marked by the celebration of Dashain, Nepal’s most important Hindu festival. Dashain symbolizes the victory of good over evil, celebrated through family gatherings, rituals, and blessings. Elders apply red tika on the foreheads of younger family members while reciting Sanskrit mantras, creating moments of deep cultural meaning. In the evening, you may dine along the lakeside, enjoying views of the mountains reflected on the water.

Your final day includes visits to Kathmandu Durbar Square, where the Taleju Temple stands among palaces and courtyards rich in history. You then climb the steps to Swayambhunath, the famous Monkey Temple, one of the most iconic Buddhist stupas in the world. From its hilltop, the stupa watches over the valley with the all seeing eyes of Buddha painted in every direction. According to your flight schedule, you are transferred to the airport, carrying with you memories of landscapes, wildlife, spirituality, and the unique energy of Dashain in Nepal.