Luxury Heritage Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by our friendly representative from Holiday Treks & Expedition with your luggage and transfer you to your luxury hotel in the heart of the city. After checking in and refreshing yourself, you can spend the rest of the day at your leisure, perhaps exploring the vibrant Thamel district or enjoying a sumptuous dinner at the hotel’s exquisite restaurant. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Hotel Dawrikas in Kathmandu (www.dwarikas.com)

Sightseeing in Kathmandu. 

Boudhnath Stupa

Boudha Stupa was listed in the world heritage list by UNESCO in 1979 and it is one of the most popular tourist sites in Kathmandu. The stupa dates from 600AD and was built by a Tibetan king. The stupa is a historical pilgrimage site for all the Buddhists around the world. The stupa was built using many kilograms of gold for decoration.The giant Boudhanath stupa is a gateway to heaven serving as a horizon between the earth and sky. The base of the stupa structure consists of three large platforms decreasing in size. These platforms symbolize the sky, whereas the circular vase supporting the semi-sphere signifies water. The eyes of Buddha painted on the stupa are diversely described as inscrutable, impassive, empathetic, and shrewd. The five most promising elements representing Buddha i.e., earth, air, water, fire, and space are comprised in the Stupa architecture.

Boudha is an awe-inspiring and spiritual space and also one of the holiest Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Kathmandu, Nepal. During the full moon day, monks are indulged in prayers, singing songs and all Buddhists come to the place as a part of their holy visit. As a daily ritual, many people walk three or more times around the stupa while repeating the mantra ‘Om Mani Padme Hum’ in a “kora”. Prayer flags that are tied to the stupa flutter in the wind, carrying mantras and prayers towards heaven.

Although it is a holy place for Buddhists, we can see many people from different cultures also praying in the stupa. Sitting 36 meters high, the site is absolutely magical, with symbols and interesting energies to be found at every turn.

Surrounding Boudhanath Stupa are streets and narrow alleys lined with colorful homes, Tibetan Buddhist monasteries and street vendors. There are number of restaurants, coffee shops, cafes, guest houses, Tibetan art and craft shops, Buddha statue shops, etc around the stupa. Tibetan foods such as laphing, thukpa, alu roti, khapse etc are found inside the premises of Boudha stupa and is very famous among the locals. There are lot of eateries where not just Nepalese but different cuisines are also found. Among them Roadhouse Cafe, La Casita, Pho99, are very famous among the tourists as well as the Nepalese. We can also find traditional Nepali food i.e Daal Bhat and for that ThasangThakali Kitchen is most loved among all.

Boudhanath is also a shopping hub for many people. We can find different kinds of shops that promote local as well as branded products. For Cashmere products Tara Oriental is famous, Drichu store is well known for its handmade clothes, and you can find traditional Thangka paintings which is famous all over the world. You can also explore a Thangka learning center inside the premises of the stupa. Around Boudhanath there are many luxurious hotels like Hyatt Regency Kathmandu, Hotel Tibet International, Ghangri Boutique Hotel and Shambaling Boutique Hotel. During the festival of Losar (Tibetan New Year) in February or March, Boudhanath hosts the largest celebration in Nepal. Boudhanath stupa opens daily for 24hours and every day it welcomes thousands of visitors. Although it is over-crowed but yet it is a very peaceful area. People of all age groups come here to hang out, stroll around, click pictures, eat delicious food and most importantly to get peace of mind. It is very easy to get there as it is in Central Kathmandu, the airport is also just few kilometers away. We can also get the view of Boudhanath from tall houses, apartments, hotels that are far away. It is one of the must visit places in Kathmandu.

However, due to April 2015 Nepal earthquake Boudhanath Stupa was demolished badly. The whole structure above the dome, and the religious relics it contained had to be removed. The reconstruction work began in June 2015 and was completed by November 2016. The renovation and reconstruction were organized and completed by the Boudhanath Area Development Committee. The repairs were funded entirely by private donations from Buddhist groups and volunteers. Now the stupa is open for all after its renovation.

Boudhanath is a world heritage site, it signifies Buddhist culture, tradition, and way of life so it should be preserved. Therefore, it is a must visit site for both the national as well as international tourists.

Bhaktapur Darbar Square

“Bhaktapur Durbar Square" is known a museum of medieval art and architecture with many examples of sculpture, woodcarving and colossal pagoda temples consecrated to different gods and goddesses.  which is roughly 12 km far from Kathmandu city. It is a conglomeration of pagoda and shikhara-style temples grouped around a fifty-five-window palace of brick and wood. This square is one of the most charming architectural showpieces of the Bhaktapur Valley as it highlights the ancient arts of Nepal. The golden effigies of kings perched on the top of stone monoliths, the guardian deities looking out from their sanctuaries, the wood carvings in every place-struts, lintels, uprights, tympanums, gateways, and windows-all seem to form a well-orchestrated symphony. Pottery and weaving are its major traditional industries.

Major attractions of Bhaktapur Darbar Square area: 

 55 Window Palace

The main architectural structure dominating the entire Durbar Square. This magnificent monument was built in 15th century AD. Seated on a huge column top in a position of prayer to God is King Bhupatindra Malla.

 Golden Gate

This is the main entrance to the palace. The craftsman who worked on this wonderful gate must be from Heaven. It is an eternal beauty.   

Lions Gate

Lion gate has two beautiful stone statues of Hindu deities installed on its either side. It is said that the hands of the artisans who produced this were cut off immediately after he gave a finishing touch to them. A jealous Bhadgaon King did this so that the artisan could not produce any more of such art.

Mini Pashupati Temple

Some people call it a royal dream temple. Folklore says - once a Bhadgaon King who was a great devotee to Lord Pashupati had a dream in which Lord told the king to build a temple for Pashupati right in front of this palace.

Vatsala Temple

This temple dedicated to a mother goddess is full of intricate works on stone. This temple is known for its dog-barking bell. This bell is believed to produce a death knell when it is rung up.

Nyatapola Temple

This is the most famous pagoda of Nepal. Nyatapola in Newari language means fie tires - the symbolic of five basic elements. This is the highest pagoda of Nepal ever built with such architectural perfection and artistic beauty. This temple is dedicated to Sidhilaxmi, the tantric goddess of supreme power and success.

Bhairava Nath Temple

This temple is dedicated to Bhairava the God of terror and death,

After sightseeing overnight stay in Dwarikas Resort. 

https://dwarikas-dhulikhel.com   

After breakfast, prepare for a scenic drive to Pokhara, one of Nepal’s most beautiful cities. Your private vehicle will take you through picturesque landscapes, with views of the rolling hills and terraced fields. The journey lasts approximately 6-7 hours, and you may stop along the way for refreshments and to take photos of the stunning scenery. Upon arrival in Pokhara, check into your luxury lakeside hotel, where you can unwind and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Annapurna Range.

Overnight in Pokhara Grande Hotel (www.pokharagrande.com ) 

It takes a 20 minutes flight from airport to Annapurna Base Camp. Helicopter land in Base camp 35 minutes for photographs. After photographs, prohram same helicopter pick you from there then drop you in Pokhara international airport. As you soar above the majestic mountains, witness breathtaking views of Annapurna, Machapuchare, and other towering peaks. Upon landing at Base Camp, take time to explore the area and immerse yourself in the stunning Himalayan landscape. After your adventure, return to Pokhara via helicopter. Couples’ hours rest in hotel then Pokhara city sightseeing program. 

David Falls, Guptesowar Mahadev Cave, World Peace Stupa, Seti River Gorge then Boating in Fewa lake. 

Overnight in Pokhara Grande Hotel ( www.pokharagrande.com )

After breakfast at your hotel, enjoy some leisure time in Pokhara. You might wish to visit local shops or take a leisurely walk around Phewa Lake. Later, embark on your journey back to Kathmandu by private vehicle, taking in the picturesque landscapes along the way. Upon arrival, check into your luxury hotel and spend the evening at your leisure, perhaps enjoying a cultural performance or a gourmet meal. Overnight in Kathmandu 

www.soalteehotel.com 

Following breakfast, set out for another day of exploring Kathmandu. Visit the stunning Bhaktapur Durbar Square, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and vibrant local culture. Stop for a traditional lunch in Bhaktapur, sampling local specialties like “king curd” (juju dhau). Afterward, head to Patan, famous for its rich cultural heritage and exquisite art. Explore the Patan Museum and the ancient temples in the area before returning to your hotel.

Patan Darbar Square

The oldest Darbar square of all the three cities of Kathmandu valley. It is the best known for its artistic heritage. It is probably one of the oldest Buddhist City in the world. The city is situated on a plateau across Bagmati River. Another name of Patan, is Lalitpur. is surrounded by 4 Stupas as 4 corners of Patan, one at each corner of its cardinal points. These stupas are said to have been built by the famous Emperor Ashoka. This is one of the most elegant architectural treasures of which Patan is very proud. About the beauty of Patan, a western lady writer has to say this - "Patan means eternity itself and Patan Durbar Square is the spectacular sight of Asia indeed". Really it is full of Hindu temples and Buddhist monuments with bronze gateways, guardian deities and wonderful carvings and many visitors come here to see these monuments. Patan Durbar square is the famous visiting place. The square is full of ancient places, temples, and shrines noted for their exquisite carvings.

The former royal palace complex is the center of Patan's religious and social life and houses a museum containing an array of bronze statues and religious objects. There are three main courtyards or chowks, so named central Mul Chowk, Sundari Chowk and Keshav Narayan Chowk in the square. The Sundari Chowk holds in its center a masterpiece of stone architecture, the Royal bath called Tushahity.

The Major attraction of Patan Darbar Square

Patan Museum

This museum inside the Durbar Square specializes in bronze statues and religious objects. It is considered as one of the best museums in Asia.

Hiranya Varna Mahavihar

Located inside kwabadehul, this three- story golden pagoda of Lokeshwar (lord Buddha) was built in the twelfth century by king Bhaskar Verma. It is famous as the golden temple. Inside the upper story of the pagoda, are the golden images of lord Buddha and a large prayer wheel.

Golden Window

This was specially built for King Siddhi Narasingha malla. His devotion to Lord Krishna as well as the Buddhist God of compassion Karunamaya Lokeshwar is a famous episode in Nepalese history of religion.

Mahabouddha Temple

This temple of Buddha built interestingly in the Hindu Shikara style- has five golden pinnacles. They are all in a stupa shape very symbolic of five basic elements.

Golden Temple

This golden temple of Buddha in Patan is the oldest richest and most famous monument indeed. It was built in the 12th century is known for its beautiful gold works shining very graciously.

Krishna Temple

The Famous Temple Which was built in the 17th century, the temple of Lord Krishna holds a commanding position in the palace complex of Patan. It is the only temple in Nepal to have 21 shrines and is completely made of stone. Most of the important scenes from the ancient Hindu epics the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, have been engraved on its friezes.

Swyambhu Nath (Monkey Temple)

Swayambhunath, also called Swoyambhu or Swayambhu Maha Chaitya, Swayambhu Stupa. This is an ancient and sacred Buddhist stupa located on top of a hill in the Kathmandu Valley. As you trek up the hill, you will be greeted by vibrant prayer flags fluttering in the wind, the aroma of burning incense, and the sound of rotating prayer wheels. Upon reaching the top, the giant stupa with a pair of eyes painted in all cardinal directions will catch your attention. However, this is only the start of the stunning visual feast that awaits you.

As you explore the temple complex, you'll discover wooden and stone carvings, murals, and statues depicting various aspects of Buddhism and Hinduism. The temple is also home to a lively population of resident monkeys, adding to the unique atmosphere of the temple, and making it a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Just be careful with your snacks, as these little guys are always on the lookout for a tasty treat.

Beyond its physical beauty, Swayambhunath is steeped in myths and legends that give us a glimpse into Nepal's rich cultural and spiritual heritage. From the story of bodhisattva Manjushree who is said to have built the temple, to the legends of the monkeys who guard it, these tales will transport you to different times and places, blurring the boundaries between history and legend.

But Swayambhunath is not just a relic of the past, it's also a vibrant place of worship. The temple complex is a constant buzz of activity, with daily rituals and ceremonies. From the early morning prayers to the evening aarti, the stupa premise is a reminder of the enduring spiritual practices that have shaped the cultural identity of Nepal. While you are there, you should not miss the Bajra (thunderbolt), the temple of Harati, statues of Buddha spread around the hill and so much more.As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Swayambhunath is not just a religious site but also an important cultural destination for visitors. In this article, we'll delve into the history, architecture, and cultural significance of Swayambhunath, exploring the myths and legends associated with the temple, its ongoing role in the local community, and the wider Buddhist tradition. So come along with us on a journey through time and discover the magic of the Monkey Temple.

After sightseeing, free day for shopping and self-explore Kathmandu. 

Overnight In Soaltee Hotel (www.soalteehotel.com) Kathmandu. 

On your final day in Nepal, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Our representative will assist you with your transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure, ensuring a smooth and stress-free conclusion to your luxurious Himalayan adventure. Safe travels!