Nepal Express Adventure

We meet you on arrival at Kathmandu Airport, assist with formalities and transfer you to your hotel in Thamel to begin your journey in Nepal’s vibrant capital. After you check in and settle, we wander through Thamel’s lively lanes together – discovering restaurants, shops and a taste of the nightlife – as you ease into the city’s atmosphere.

This morning we ride a rickshaw through the backstreets of Thamel and nearby neighbourhoods, passing tiny shops, stupas and workshops as everyday life unfolds up close. We then walk from Thamel to historic Kathmandu Durbar Square, threading through narrow alleys filled with shrines and courtyards that introduce the city’s oldest quarters. In Durbar Square we explore intricately carved temples and royal palaces, learning about Newari architecture and the history of the ancient kingdom. Later we visit Swayambhunath Stupa on a hill overlooking Kathmandu, where we spin prayer wheels, enjoy sweeping views and watch the resident monkeys.

We start in Patan’s UNESCO listed Durbar Square, celebrated for Newari art and architecture, and wander among intricately carved temples and peaceful courtyards that showcase the city’s creative heritage. We continue to the historic hilltop town of Kirtipur to learn about its traditional way of life, walking along narrow lanes with wide views over the valley. In Bhaktapur we explore beautifully preserved temples and ancient buildings, and experience traditional crafts that speak to the town’s rich cultural identity. We take part in a practical pottery class – using traditional wheels and techniques – and learn from skilled artisans in Bhaktapur’s famous Pottery Square. From Bhaktapur we drive to the hilltop village of Nagarkot and arrive to sweeping views across the Kathmandu Valley.

We descend through forest and terraced farmland to Changu Narayan and visit one of Nepal’s oldest and most important temples. From the temple area we travel to the traditional town of Panauti to begin our community homestay. We explore Panauti with our hosts and learn about Newari traditions, enjoying home cooked meals and a genuine insight into local life.

After breakfast we return to Kathmandu – pausing at two major pilgrimage sites – to delve deeper into the city’s historic and spiritual heart. We visit Nepal’s most sacred Hindu temple on the Bagmati River, witness rituals and learn about the site’s profound cultural significance. We then explore the vast Boudhanath Stupa – a major centre of Tibetan Buddhism – and walk around the stupa alongside pilgrims and monks.

We transfer you from your hotel to Kathmandu Airport for your onward flight – we are on hand at the terminal to assist with check in and departure as your tour comes to an end.