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!
The Pokhara and Lumbini Tour is a captivating journey that combines the natural beauty of Pokhara with the spiritual heritage of Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. Pokhara is renowned for its stunning landscapes, serene lakes, and adventure activities, while Lumbini is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Buddhists around the world. This tour gives you the opportunity to explore the cultural, spiritual, and natural wonders of Nepal in a single trip. It’s a great option for those interested in combining relaxation, outdoor activities, and cultural exploration.
During the tour, you will experience the best of both nature and spirituality. In Pokhara, you can enjoy activities such as boating on Phewa Lake, a visit to the World Peace Pagoda, hiking to Sarangkot for sunrise views of the Himalayas, and exploring natural attractions like Devi’s Fall and Gupteshwor Cave. Afterward, you will travel to Lumbini, where you will visit sacred Buddhist sites such as the Maya Devi Temple, the Lumbini Garden, and the Lumbini Museum. The tour is designed to offer a peaceful yet enriching experience, with a mix of cultural, spiritual, and natural highlights.
The Pokhara and Lumbini Tour typically lasts 5 to 7 days, depending on your itinerary and the time you want to spend in each location. You’ll start in Pokhara, where you’ll explore the natural beauty and adventure activities over the course of 2 to 3 days. Then, you’ll travel to Lumbini, where you can spend 2 days visiting the historical and spiritual sites. You can customize the length of your trip based on your preferences and interests, and Chingu Treks and Tours can help you create a personalized itinerary.
Chingu Treks and Tours provides a well-rounded tour package that includes:
Transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Lumbini (by flight or road)
Accommodation in comfortable hotels or resorts in Pokhara and Lumbini
English-speaking guide who will explain the cultural and historical significance of the sites
Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the tour
Sightseeing tours and visits to key attractions in both cities
Boating on Phewa Lake and visits to natural and cultural landmarks
Entrance fees to temples, museums, and other historical sites
Private or group tours based on your preference for a more personalized experience
Chingu Treks and Tours takes care of all the logistics, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience from start to finish.
Pokhara is one of the most scenic cities in Nepal, and there are numerous activities to enjoy:
Phewa Lake: Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the serene lake, with views of the Annapurna range and Machapuchare mountain.
World Peace Pagoda: Take a short hike or drive up to this iconic pagoda for panoramic views of Pokhara and the surrounding mountains.
Sarangkot Sunrise: Wake up early to hike or drive to Sarangkot for a breathtaking sunrise view of the Himalayas.
Adventure Activities: Engage in paragliding, zip-lining, or cycling around the valley for an adrenaline-filled experience.
Devi’s Fall and Gupteshwor Cave: Visit these natural wonders, known for their beauty and mysticism.
Mountain Views: Enjoy stunning views of the Annapurna and Machapuchare peaks from various points around Pokhara.
Lumbini is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the world for Buddhists. It is the birthplace of Lord Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. Visitors to Lumbini can explore the Lumbini Garden, where the Maya Devi Temple marks the spot where Buddha was born. Other key attractions include the Lumbini Museum, which offers insights into the history of Buddhism, and the Sacred Pond, where it’s believed Buddha’s mother took a ritual bath before giving birth. The area is also dotted with monasteries built by different Buddhist countries, offering a peaceful, spiritual experience.
In Lumbini, you will visit several significant Buddhist sites:
Maya Devi Temple: The sacred temple marking the exact location of Lord Buddha’s birth.
Lumbini Garden: A serene garden where you can reflect and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
The Sacred Pond: A holy site where Queen Maya Devi took a bath before giving birth.
Lumbini Museum: A museum showcasing the history and art of Buddhism.
Monasteries: Visit the various monasteries built by different countries in the Lumbini Monastic Zone, each with its unique architectural style and teachings.
Buddhist Pilgrimage Sites: Explore the ruins of the ancient Ashoka Pillar and other historical Buddhist monuments.
The best time to visit both Pokhara and Lumbini is during the autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) seasons. These months offer clear skies, moderate temperatures, and excellent conditions for sightseeing, trekking, and outdoor activities. The weather is neither too hot nor too cold, making it ideal for exploring the natural beauty of Pokhara and the historical sites of Lumbini. Winter (December to February) is also a good time to visit if you prefer cooler weather, while summer (June to August) can be hot, especially in the lowlands of Lumbini, and the monsoon season can make travel more challenging.
The Pokhara and Lumbini tour is designed to be accessible to most travelers, and it does not require advanced fitness levels. In Pokhara, most activities, such as boating, visiting cultural sites, and hiking to the World Peace Pagoda, are leisurely and suitable for people of all fitness levels. The hikes in Sarangkot or around Pokhara can be a bit more strenuous, but they are not difficult. Lumbini is largely flat, and the walking involved is minimal, so the tour is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels.
Chingu Treks and Tours is a trusted tour operator with years of experience in organizing personalized tours in Nepal. Our team of expert guides ensures that you get the most out of your trip, offering cultural, historical, and natural insights throughout the tour. We provide hassle-free logistics, comfortable accommodations, and well-planned itineraries to ensure that you can relax and enjoy every moment of your journey. Whether you're interested in adventure, culture, or spirituality, Chingu Treks and Tours can tailor your Pokhara and Lumbini experience to meet your needs.
