Nepal Family Adventure

Arrive at Kathmandu Airport, where we meet you, assist with formalities and transfer you to your hotel in lively Thamel to settle in and take your first look at the city. In the evening we lead a short orientation walk around Thamel – highlighting useful landmarks and practical spots – a gentle introduction so you feel confident exploring later in the tour.

We take a rickshaw through the backstreets of Thamel and nearby neighbourhoods, passing tiny shops, stupas and workshops as everyday city life unfolds around us. We explore Kathmandu Durbar Square with its intricately carved temples and former royal palaces, learning about Newari architecture and the history of the old kingdom. We continue towards the hilltop of Swayambhunath – enjoying changing views of the city – and visit the stupa to spin prayer wheels, watch the resident monkeys and take in sweeping panoramas.

We fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara on a short, scenic hop – on clear days the Himalayan ranges stretch away beneath us. On arrival in this relaxed lakeside city at the foot of the Annapurnas, we take a wooden boat across Lake Phewa, gliding over calm water that mirrors the mountains and lakeside shrines. We then learn to prepare traditional Nepali momos in an interactive cooking class – shaping, steaming and tasting our creations with guidance from local cooks.

We transfer by road from Pokhara to Dam Head – the start of the Panchase trek – as the city gives way to rural landscapes. We begin a steady, scenic ascent through terraced fields and forest to reach Bhumdi, a peaceful village with expansive mountain views.

We hike through villages, fields and rhododendron forests as we ascend towards Panchase Bhanjyang, arriving at the ridge top settlement to take in panoramic Himalayan scenery.

We climb to the summit of Panchase Hill for expansive views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges – a memorable Himalayan panorama. We then descend through forests, terraced fields and small Gurung and Brahmin villages as we trek to Bhadaure, enjoying a rewarding blend of mountain scenery and local culture along the way.

We continue downhill along stone paths and village trails towards Naudanda, with views of farmland and hillside communities, before our vehicle meets us for the transfer back to Pokhara. Back at the lake you have free time to unwind – linger in cafés, browse the shops and enjoy the peaceful setting.

We leave Pokhara by road for the Lower Seti River, watching village life, fields and hills slip by en route to the rafting base. With an experienced river team, we spend the day on the Lower Seti – paddling gentle, family friendly rapids interspersed with calm stretches and playful waves. In the late afternoon we pull into a relaxed riverside camp, where equipment is provided for a comfortable overnight on the riverbank. As night falls, you can unwind by the campfire, gaze at the stars and listen to the soft rush of the river.

We depart the Lower Seti River and drive south into the Terai lowlands towards Chitwan National Park, as river valleys give way to lush subtropical jungle. In the park we set out on a guided jungle walk, keeping an eye out for rhinos, deer, monkeys and abundant birdlife in the forests and grasslands. We venture deeper into Chitwan on a jeep safari, exploring varied habitats with chances to spot wildlife such as rhinos and boar – and, with luck, even a big cat. In the early evening we stroll through a traditional Tharu village near the park to learn about local customs and daily life.

We continue our exploration of Chitwan National Park on a guided jungle walk, again watching for rhinos, deer, monkeys and a wealth of birdlife. We then glide along a jungle river in a traditional canoe, observing crocodiles and water birds as the lowland waterways unfold around us – a serene slice of the Terai. Later we head deeper into the park on a jeep safari across varied habitats with chances to encounter wildlife such as rhinos, boar and, with luck, big cats.

At first light we set out for a birdwatching walk on the fringes of Chitwan, looking for the resident and migratory species that make this region a favourite with bird lovers. We then leave the lowlands and drive into the hills towards Bandipur, where forested ridges reveal distant mountain views. On arrival we explore on a guided walk through Bandipur’s beautifully restored Newari centre, wandering its traffic free streets lined with temples and traditional houses. The remainder of the day is yours to relax in Bandipur – you can take short independent walks into surrounding villages and hills and soak up the peaceful hilltop atmosphere and views.

We fly back to Kathmandu, trading mountain quiet for the buzz of the capital. The afternoon is at leisure – you can unwind after the flight or wander the lively lanes of Thamel at your own pace. Early this evening we gather for an informal briefing on the tour and the local area, with time for questions before a relaxed night in the city.

We leave the bustle of Kathmandu and drive into the Kathmandu Valley to the ancient city of Bhaktapur, a remarkably well preserved historic town. With our guide we explore the old centre, visiting temples, courtyards and traditional Newari homes. We take part in a pottery class using traditional wheels and techniques, learning from skilled artisans in Bhaktapur’s famous Pottery Square. In the afternoon we return to Kathmandu and visit two of its key religious sites – Pashupatinath, Nepal’s most important Hindu temple, where we observe ceremonies along the Bagmati River, and the Boudhanath Stupa, a major centre of Tibetan Buddhism where we walk around the stupa with pilgrims and monks. You have free time to rest or explore the lively lanes of Thamel. This evening we hold an informal briefing about the tour and the local area.

You have free time to rest or explore the lively lanes of Thamel at your own pace. This evening we host an informal briefing about the tour and the local area. On departure day we provide a transfer from your Kathmandu hotel to the airport. Say goodbye to Nepal as you head for your international flight – check in at Kathmandu Airport and complete departure formalities before your onward journey.