Classic Nepal
Trip highlights
- Dive into Kathmandu's spiritual heritage
- Explore UNESCO sites like Kathmandu Durbar Square
- Tour the royal city of Patan
- Float along the peaceful waters of Phewa Lake
- Head out on a safari in Chitwan National Park
- Journey to Namo Buddha's sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site
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Traditional Nepalese temple bells
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The sadhus (holy men) of Pashupatinath Temple
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Local chillies from a vegetable market in Kathmandu
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A statue of a Malla king in Patan Durbar Square
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Pokhara's largest lake, Phewa Tal
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One-horned rhinos in Chitwan National Park
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Namo Buddha in Dhulikhel
Bespoke trips with Jacada
We design one-of-a-kind journeys incorporating luxury in all its forms. Our bespoke trips include:
- Luxury accommodation throughout
- Privately guided tours
- Private transfers
- Meticulously selected experiences
- Expertise and support from your Jacada Concierge
- Days 1–4 Kathmandu
- Days 4–6 Pokhara
- Days 6–8 Chitwan
- Days 8–10 Dhulikhel
- Days 1–4 Kathmandu
- Days 4–6 Pokhara
- Days 6–8 Chitwan
- Days 8–10 Dhulikhel
Itinerary in detail
Every Jacada trip is tailored to your personal preferences and interests. Below you’ll find a sample itinerary to inspire your own custom-designed journey.
In and around Kathmandu
Your adventure begins in Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, where ancient holy temples sit beside pulsating marketplaces. You’ll explore cultural landmarks, including the 18th-century Kumari Ghar Palace influenced by Newari architecture and the UNESCO-listed Durbar Square.
Heading out of the city centre, you’ll visit Hindu temples and Buddhist stupas and discover the wonders of Patan’s royal city, known for its fine art and beautifully preserved architecture.
Where you could stay
Kathmandu
Overview
Discover the history and culture of Nepal at one of Kathmandu’s finest properties, Dwarika’s Hotel. From Nepalese art adorning the walls to dark wood carvings and intricate staircases, this property takes inspiration from traditional Newari architecture to create a delightful retreat from the bustle of the city.
The hotel plays an important role in the architectural conservation of the area. Its construction incorporated artefacts from the 13th century onwards and care has been taken that any new additions to the building have been undertaken in the traditional style. Dwarika’s Hotel helps to keep the classical style alive by training artisans to work on restoration projects in the Kathmandu Valley.
Restored tall red-brick buildings house the 83 guestrooms which are decorated with red and black Nepalese materials and look out onto a central courtyard. Meanwhile, the outdoor pool and impressive spa offer further peaceful settings. You can then delve deeper into Nepal’s culture at Krishnarpan, one of the three on-site restaurants, to savour delicious regional dishes such as dal bhat.
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Make it mine
Buddhist Stupa
Hindu Temple
Culture and History
City Excursion
Culture and History
City Excursion
Visit the Boudhanath Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
See the Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest spherical stupas in the world and the centre of Tibetan Buddhism. Admire its base, adorned with 108 small images of the Dhyani Amitabha Buddha and many prayer wheels.
Thousands of pilgrims circle the stupa each day, spinning its prayer wheels clockwise. It is said that each spin of a prayer wheel is the equivalent of reciting the mantra. The stupa is also thought to entomb the remains of a Buddhist sage, sacred texts and other ceremonial objects.
Marvel at the Pashupatinath Temple on the Bagmati River
Observe the magnificent temple of Pashupatinath, situated amidst lush greenery on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River. The temple is built in a pagoda style, featuring a gilded roof and intricately carved silver doors. Dedicated to the Hindu God of Destruction, Lord Shiva, it is considered the most sacred temple of all the Lord Shiva temples. Pashupatinath is also Nepal’s most renowned Hindu cremation site.
Experience a traditional bazaar and the highlights of Durbar Square
Alongside an expert guide, you’ll wander about a lively vegetable and spice market in Asan before ambling around Durbar Square, surrounded by elaborately carved buildings and sculptures.
You’ll explore the ancient palaces of the Malla and Shah kings, hidden courtyards and holy temples, and see the decorated statue of Hanuman, the monkey devotee of Lord Ram.
Venture to Patan
Discover Patan, the city of fine arts. Also known as Lalitpur, Patan is one of the three ancient cities of the Kathmandu Valley and is thought to be the oldest continuing Buddhist town in the world. Here, you’ll find perfectly preserved temples and palace complexes.
Spend two nights in Pokhara
Your next destination is Pokhara, where the glistening Phewa Lake invites you to head out onto its calm waters onboard a brightly painted, traditional wooden rowing boat.
This region is home to several temples. You’ll visit Bindhyabasini Temple, one of the oldest in the city, and you’ll discover Barahi Temple, perched on a small island in the middle of Phewa Lake, dedicated to the Hindu Goddess Ajima.
You’ll also stop at the World Peace Pagoda, also called the Shanti Stupa, before browsing the International Mountain Museum’s exhibits.
Where you could stay
Pokhara
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Overview
Perched high above Pokhara Valley with a beautiful Himalayan backdrop, Tiger Mountain is a peaceful, Nepalese-style lodge. From individual stone bungalows to double storey cottages, the 18 spacious guestrooms are set in clusters around the property’s gardens, resembling a Nepali village. Each room is decorated with Tibetan hand-woven carpets, local artefacts and a private veranda with dramatic mountain or valley views.
Enjoy pre-dinner cocktails out on the candle-lit terrace or around a log fire. The kitchen uses fresh, local produce to prepare a variety of Nepali and western dishes.
Aside from the tranquil setting, Tiger Mountain further inspires guests to experience Nepal’s rural way of life with local village visits and yoga sessions. What’s more, guests are asked to keep mobile phones on silent in communal areas.
Though peaceful pursuits, like meditating in the bamboo garden and relaxing in the infinity pool are encouraged, plenty of adventure is also on offer. Thrill-seekers are kept entertained with exciting activities like hikes, paragliding tours and micro-light flights around the sublime Himalayan surrounds.
→ Find out morePokhara
Overview
Nestled in a tranquil valley near the banks of a meandering mountain-fed river, sits The Pavilions Himalayas. Set against the backdrop of the epic mountain range, this eco-sensitive resort is the perfect place to relax while enjoying Nepal’s outstanding natural beauty. Dedicated to the sustainability of the natural environment and benefiting the lives of the local people, The Pavilions Himalayas is involved in several projects and programmes.
The 14 spacious villas, completely powered by solar energy, are spread across organic farmland, combining traditional charm with modern luxury. From your private terrace, you can admire the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas and immerse yourself within the quiet and peaceful way of life in the countryside.
For those wanting a little more independence, there’s a family cottage located within the village, which comes with its own garden and kitchen. The great outdoors beckons, and you can choose to spend your time trekking, birdwatching or exploring the nearby Phewa Lake.
For when you want to simply sit back and relax, head to the spa or outdoor pool, and when hunger strikes, the Clubhouse serves authentic Nepali cuisine with much of the produce grown on-site.
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Make it mine
Rowing Adventure
Temple Tour
Quest for Peace
Nepal's Mountain History
Quest for Peace
Nepal's Mountain History
Paddle across Phewa Lake
The second biggest lake of Nepal, Phewa Lake is a picturesque spot for boating.
The pagoda-style Tal Barahi Temple sits on an island at its heart. You can paddle close to this holy Hindu shrine while admiring the reflection of Machhapuchhre Peak and the Annapurna Range cast across the water.
Tour one of Pokhara's ancient temples
Visit Bindhyabasini Temple, one of Pokhara’s oldest temples, dating more than two hundred years old.
Legend has it that when Pokhara was part of the Kaski Kingdom, the main deity of Bindhyabasini Temple, Goddess Durga, was brought across from India. From the temple, you can also glimpse breathtaking vistas of the Himalayas on clear days.
See Nepal's first Peace Pagoda
Built as a symbol of world peace, Shanti Stupa, also called World Peace Pagoda, is a Buddhist pagoda-style monument seated on Ananda Hill, with a mesmerising view of Phewa Lake. The Sanskrit word ‘shanti’ translates to peace.
Adorning its bright white stupa, notice intricate carvings and four Buddha statues gifted by four different countries; they each face a cardinal direction and depict an important occurrence in Buddha’s life.
Browse the International Mountain Museum
You’ll learn all about Nepal’s magnificent mountains and those who climbed them by glancing through the International Mountain Museum’s comprehensive exhibitions.
You’ll also gain an insight into Nepalese mountain cultures, wildlife and flora, and observe original artefacts, such as gear from some of the first Himalayan ascents.
Wildlife-spotting in Chitwan National Park
The next leg of your journey sees you exploring Chitwan National Park, where you’ll head out on a safari and canoe trip to get a closer look at the abundant wildlife that call the park their home.
Chitwan was the Nepali royal family’s former hunting grounds, but today the national park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site focused on preserving the flora and fauna within its several habitats, spanning forests, grasslands and hills.
Where you could stay
Chitwan
Overview
Venture into the heart of the Nepalese wilderness and make yourself at home at the tranquil Meghauli Serai in Chitwan National Park.
Part of Taj Safaris, the lodge is surrounded by lush forests, with the Himalayas just beyond the treetops. Overlooking the Rapti River, the neutral colours in the spacious suite, 16 villas and 13 rooms create a peaceful refuge. Immerse yourself in the sounds of the jungle as you unwind in a private plunge pool, or enjoy views of the mountains and the Terai grasslands from your balcony.
At the end of the day, catch up with your fellow guests as you enjoy sundowners under the stars, or a tuck into a bush dinner of Tharu-inspired cuisine out at the bonfire. If you’re looking for something a little more intimate, find a table in the dining room or bar, or dine in your room.
A team of skilled rangers are on hand to take you on Jeep, walking and river safaris where you have the chance to spot the one-horned rhinoceros, ghariyals (a species of crocodile found on the Indian subcontinent), sloth bears and a wide variety of other wildlife. Make the trip extra special with an elephant bathing and feeding experience, and meet the inhabitants of a Tharu village and learn about their customs.
Chitwan
Overview
Barahi Jungle Lodge enjoys an idyllic location on the banks of the Rapti River just outside the boundaries of Chitwan National Park.
The lodge consists of 34 thatched cottages with wood, bamboo and elephant grass interiors which are filled with traditional Nepali furnishings. Each cottage opens out onto a private balcony where views of the jungle unfold. There is also a larger suite room with two bedrooms, dining room and bar, terrace, pool and campfire.
Back in the communal areas, feast on organic continental and authentic Nepalese dishes and treat yourself to a massage at the picturesque spa.
Guests can spend their days on nature walks and jeep safaris spotting elusive tigers and rhinos, or get a feel for the local culture with village visits. Then, return to relax on your private balcony and drink in those untouched river and savannah views.
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Embark on a jeep and canoe safari in Chitwan National Park
Begin your exploration of Chitwan National Park by crossing the Rapti River by boat. Then, you’ll set off on a jeep safari, traversing open grassland before heading deep into riverine and sal forests before cutting across the Reu River. You’ll spot varied wildlife in their natural habitats as you drive, such as one-horned black rhinos, golden jackals, sloth bears and macaque monkeys.
Later, you’ll canoe down a tranquil river, glimpsing wildlife drifting along its banks, including curious crocodiles, while birds, like kingfishers, swoop in from above. Your excursion culminates with a refreshing sundowner along the Rapti River.
Head to Dwarika's Resort by helicopter
In ultra-luxurious fashion, you’ll be transferred by helicopter from Chitwan National Park to Dwarika’s Resort in Dhulikhel, where you’ll spend your final few days in Nepal.
Wind down in Dhulikhel
To close out your trip through Nepal, you’ll find yourself surrounded by traditional culture in the provincial town of Dhulikhel. Here, you can set off on an invigorating hike to the sacred site of Namo Buddha. Pilgrims journey there from all over the world to pay tribute and make offerings to the Great Being.
In Dhulikhel, you’ll be staying at Dwarika’s Resort, where you can unwind with several spa facilities and therapeutic activities. Rejuvenate in the dedicated Himalayan salt room and rebalance your body’s energy fields in the chakra sound therapy chamber. You can also take part in soothing yoga and meditation sessions or channel your creativity in pottery and painting classes.
Where you'll stay
Dhulikhel
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Overview
Dwarika’s Resort is surrounded by the mighty Himalayas and offers unparalleled views of this mesmerising mountain range. Nestled on a hillside, this blissful retreat reflects Nepal’s ancient philosophy and natural heritage through its elegant but rustic design and impressive number of peace-inducing services.
There are 39 suites inspired by nature, built using local wood and stone. Each suite features an outdoor terrace with day bed which are perfect for sunrise mountain views, scenic sundowners and sleeping under the stars.
Physical and mental wellbeing is key at Dwarika’s Resort and guests are encouraged to reconnect with mind, spirit and nature during their stay. There are plenty of on-site activities, from yoga, meditiation and salt therapy to cooking and art and pottery classes. There are also numerous hiking trails that lead straight from the property and ample opportunities for birdwatching.
Dining here is a real treat, with many of the ingredients grown in the resort’s very own vegetable garden.
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Trek to Namo Buddha
Seated amid fluttering prayer flags while overlooking snow-capped mountains in the distance, Namo Buddha is one of the holiest Buddhist sites in the world.
For centuries, Namo Buddha has drawn pilgrims to this sacred spot, where, according to legend, the Great Being (an early incarnation of Lord Buddha) offered himself to feed a starving tigress and her cubs. Namo Buddha’s ancient stupa is where the remains of the Great Being are said to be buried following his great sacrifice.
Today, people from all over the world visit the site to pay homage to the Great Being with the traditional offering of butter lamps.
The attention to detail while planning our trip was great. They have great local partners that just made our trip amazing from pick up at the airport when we arrived to when we left Nepal. Great job all around. Ellie and Cathy really went above and beyond understanding what we were looking for and planned every detail so well. They…
Why book with Jacada
Personalised design
We’ll plan your trip around your personal interests, tastes and preferences, providing honest advice based on first-hand knowledge.
Authentic experiences
Our expert guides and brilliant Concierges are hand-picked for their ability to bring your destination to life with care and passion.
Positive Impact
We seek out unforgettable experiences that benefit both local communities and the environment.
