Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, you’ll be warmly greeted and transferred to your hotel. Visit Boudhanath Stupa, which is a holy site for the Buddhist people. As the sun sets, immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of Boudhanath, the largest stupa in Nepal, where monks chant mantras and devotees perform the ancient practice of kora—circumambulating the stupa in prayer.

Activity: Lighting of Prayer Lamps, symbolizing the dispelling of darkness, and join the locals in this tranquil ritual.

Start your day with a visit to a nearby monastery in Boudha. Afterward, explore the vibrant artisan community around Boudhanath. For lunch, indulge in authentic Tibetan dishes such as Momo (dumplings) and Thukpa (noodle soup) at a local restaurant. In the evening, learn more about Boudhanath and its religious and architectural history and about Tibetan diaspora and their rich traditions, offering a deeper understanding of the culture surrounding this sacred site.

Activity: Take a guided meditation session and learn about the principles of Tibetan Buddhism from an expert. Visit Thangka painting workshops where skilled artists craft intricate spiritual art.

A scenic drive brings you to Thamel, Kathmandu’s lively cultural hub. After checking into your heritage-style hotel, take a guided stroll through Thamel’s hidden courtyards and small temples, often overlooked by visitors. These quiet spaces offer a glimpse into the city’s historical fabric. Spend time browsing the bustling shops for traditional handicrafts, pashmina shawls, and intricate antiques. In the evening, you’ll attend a cultural performance.

Activity: Visit traditional handicraft stores and attend a cultural program and learn about traditional musical instruments, like the Sarangi, and ethnic dance forms of Nepal.

Your morning begins with a visit to Swayambhunath Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known as the Monkey Temple, this sacred site offers panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley. Afterward, explore the ancient temples, courtyards, and palaces of Kathmandu Durbar Square. Marvel at the intricate carvings of Hanuman Dhoka Palace and enjoy a special audience with the Kumari, the living goddess of Kathmandu. Conclude your day with a visit to the lively Ason Market, where you can sample street food such as Chatamari (rice crepes) and samosa.

Activity: Visit Kumari Bahal, the temple/residence of Kumari, the living Goddess in Kathmandu Durbar Square.

Relax in the morning, or take an optional yoga class to rejuvenate. After lunch, drive to Patan, the ancient city of artisans. Begin your exploration at the Golden Temple, a beautifully carved Buddhist monastery, and take a leisurely stroll through the quiet streets of this historical city. As the evening approaches, indulge in a traditional Newari feast featuring dishes like Bara (lentil patties), Yomari (sweet dumplings), and Chhoila (spiced meat), accompanied by stories about Newari culture and heritage.

Activity: Visit the Golden Temple and enjoy a Newari cultural dinner in Patan.

Spend a full day uncovering the artistic treasures of Patan. Begin at Patan Durbar Square, with its intricately carved temples and monuments, followed by a visit to the Patan Museum, where centuries-old artifacts offer a window into Nepal’s cultural legacy. In the afternoon, join a traditional metalworking workshop to learn about the ancient craft of sculpting religious statues. Later, visit a local family for a cooking class, where you’ll learn to prepare and enjoy authentic Newari dishes.

Activity: Engage in a hands-on metalworking workshop and enjoy a cooking class at a local home.

Travel to Bhaktapur, a city renowned for its preserved medieval charm. Check in to a heritage hotel and explore the city’s pottery square, where artisans shape clay into beautiful ceramics using traditional techniques. Try creating your own pottery piece under the guidance of skilled craftsmen. As evening descends, visit Nyatapola Square, dominated by the majestic five-tiered Nyatapola Temple. End the day with a tasting of Bhaktapur’s famed juju dhau (king curd), a local delicacy.

Stay overnight at Bhaktapur

Activity: Experience traditional pottery-making in Bhaktapur’s iconic pottery square.

Dedicate your day to exploring Bhaktapur’s cultural landmarks. Wander through Bhaktapur Durbar Square, home to the 55-Window Palace, and admire the intricate wood and stone carvings. Take part in a traditional wood carving workshop, learning the ancient techniques from local artisans. After lunch, visit Dattatreya Square, a hub of medieval temples and local crafts like weaving and paper-making. In the late afternoon, drive to the hilltop Changu Narayan Temple, the oldest temple in Nepal, and enjoy the spectacular sunset views over the valley. Overnight at Bhaktapur.

Activity: Join a wood carving workshop and visit the historic Changu Narayan Temple.

After breakfast, you can shop for souvenirs such as handmade pottery, wooden masks, and intricate paper products in Bhaktapur. Transfer to the airport with a heart full of memories.