| Trip code | |
| Package name | Pokhara and Lumbini Tour |
| Duration | 8 |
| Max. elevation | 1400 m |
| Level | Easy |
| Transportation | All ground transportation as per Itinerary |
| Accomodation | 3*** Hotel in Kathmandu / Lumbini / Pokhara and Lodge / Tea House during the trip |
| Starts at | Kathmandu |
| Ends at | Kathmandu |
| Trip route | |
| Cost | USD 0 per person |
Welcome to Nepal! Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Chingu Treks and Tours will warmly greet you and assist with your transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu. After check-in, take some time to relax and recover from your journey. Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to explore the nearby areas or enjoy a leisurely evening in Kathmandu. You will be briefed about the tour and the itinerary for the upcoming days during a welcome dinner, where you can taste traditional Nepali dishes and get an introduction to Nepali culture.
After breakfast at the hotel, your exploration of Kathmandu begins with a full-day sightseeing tour of this vibrant and historic city. Kathmandu is known for its ancient temples, stupas, and rich cultural heritage. The first stop is the iconic Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers panoramic views of the city. It’s a sacred Buddhist site that dates back over 2,000 years, known for its striking architecture and vibrant prayer flags.
Next, visit the Kathmandu Durbar Square, a historic plaza surrounded by royal palaces, temples, and shrines that showcase the intricate artistry of ancient Nepalese architecture. The Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu temples in the world, is also a highlight. Here, you can witness rituals performed along the banks of the Bagmati River, and if lucky, catch sight of sacred cremation ceremonies. Later, explore the serene Boudhanath Stupa, another UNESCO-listed site and one of the largest in the world, offering an opportunity to observe Buddhist monks and pilgrims as they circle the stupa in prayer. After a day filled with cultural and historical exploration, return to your hotel for a relaxing evening.
Today, you will begin your scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, a charming lakeside city surrounded by the majestic Annapurna Range. After breakfast, your guide will accompany you on the 6-hour journey by private vehicle. As you travel along the Prithvi Highway, you’ll pass through picturesque villages, terraced fields, and lush forests, with occasional glimpses of the Himalayas. Along the way, you may stop at scenic viewpoints to stretch your legs and take in the views of the Trishuli River and the surrounding countryside.
Upon arrival in Pokhara, check in to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening by Phewa Lake. If you have time, you can take a leisurely walk around the lake, enjoy a boat ride, or simply relax with a peaceful view of the mountains.
Today begins early as you drive to Sarangkot, located on a hilltop that offers a panoramic view of the Annapurna and Machapuchare (Fishtail) mountains. Arriving before sunrise, you will have the opportunity to witness the stunning sight of the sun rising over the snow-capped peaks, with the landscape gradually illuminated in golden light. This is a perfect spot for photos and to appreciate the natural beauty of the region.
After enjoying the sunrise, return to Pokhara for a half-day tour of the city. Visit the peaceful Devi’s Fall, a waterfall with an interesting legend, and Gupteshwor Cave, a sacred Hindu site. Then, head to the International Mountain Museum, where you can learn about the history and culture of the Himalayas, mountaineers, and the various trekking routes in Nepal. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring Pokhara at your own pace or relaxing by the lake.
After breakfast, you will undertake on a 6-hour scenic drive to Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha and an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists from around the world. The drive takes you through picturesque rural landscapes, with terraced fields and small villages dotting the landscape as you approach the Lumbini Development Zone.
Upon arrival in Lumbini, check into your hotel and relax. In the evening, you can visit the Lumbini Garden to witness the serene beauty of this sacred place. The area is home to several monasteries, temples, and historical sites, and you will have time to reflect and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Today is dedicated to exploring the historical and religious significance of Lumbini. After breakfast, visit the Lumbini Garden, where you will see the Maya Devi Temple, which marks the exact spot where Queen Maya Devi gave birth to Prince Siddhartha (later known as Buddha) in 623 BCE. The temple is an important pilgrimage site, and you can explore the ancient ruins and the sacred pool where Queen Maya is believed to have bathed before the birth.
Next, visit the Ashoka Pillar, erected by Emperor Ashoka of India in 249 BCE to mark the birthplace of Buddha. Explore the nearby monastic zones, which include temples and monasteries built by various Buddhist countries. Some of the temples are beautifully decorated, representing different cultural styles from across the globe. In the afternoon, visit the Lumbini Museum to learn more about the history of Lumbini, its archaeological findings, and Buddha’s teachings. The day will end with time for meditation or reflection in the tranquil surroundings of Lumbini.
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Bhairahawa Airport, located approximately 30 minutes from Lumbini. Here, you will take a domestic flight back to Kathmandu. The flight offers another chance to enjoy the scenic views of the Nepalese countryside and the Himalayas. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax, shop for souvenirs, or explore any remaining sites in the city. If you have the time, you can also visit Patan Durbar Square or Bhaktapur Durbar Square, both rich in history and culture.
On the final day of your Pokhara and Lumbini Tour, you will have breakfast at the hotel before being transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your international departure flight. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for last-minute shopping or a relaxing coffee before bidding farewell to Nepal.
Chingu Treks and Tours hopes you had a wonderful journey through Nepal's cultural and historical treasures, and we wish you safe travels on your next adventure!