UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE TOUR

Today you fly to Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital city. On arrival at the airport, you are met and transferred to your hotel. 

The Himalayas has always been a great source of mysticism. The OPTIONAL Mountain Flight offers this rare, fascinating opportunity to embrace the legendary Himalayas and discover the ineffable beauty that is guaranteed to be one of the most mesmerizing experiences ever.    

The Mountain Flight is enjoyed by thousands of people every year. The flights are operated by domestic airlines. They are operated only if the weather permits to ensure good visibility and safety. The one-hour Mountain Flight takes off from the Kathmandu Airport to the Everest, a must-see landmark in Nepal and at 8848 m, the highest and most majestic peak in the world. The whole experience is a pure delight; soaring 25,000 ft. above ground, it offers a breathtaking view of the mighty Himalayas. Zipping above clouds, though the seemingly endless scintillating snowcapped peaks, over glaciers and gorges, this is the journey through the world’s highest peaks.
Start your sightseeing tour of Kathmandu City. The city’s rich and varied cultural legacy began during the 14th century under the Mall Dynasty. Patronized by the nobility, Newar artisans constructed temples, monasteries and elaborate courtyards that today contribute to a fascinating architectural history of the city. Ride in a rickshaw to visit the Kathmandu Durbar Square to visit Durbar Square and Teleju Temple, with its gilded roofs. Stop at the House of the Living Goddess (Kumari). Walk through the bazaar and labyrinthine back streets of the old city.

Move on to Swayambhunath - the oldest shrine in the world established more than 2500 years ago.  Situated on top of a high hill where legendary Manjushri discovered the lotus growing in the ancient Kathmandu Valley lake, Swayambhunath commands an superb view of the valley below. The four side of this ancient structure are painted with the compassionate eyes of Buddha. Between the eyes is a mystical third eye symbolizing true wisdom. The nose, appearing as an incomplete question mark, is the Nepalese number of one, a symbol of unity.

Drive to Patan. During lunch, learn about Nepali cuisine at the home of local resident and enjoy the result.
Explore Patan City also known as the City of arts and architecture founded in 250 A.D. It is renowned for its fine works in bronze, silver and copper. Visit the Durbar Square, Royal Baths, Mahaboudha, Krishna Mandir and Hiranya Verna Mahabihar (the Golden Temple). A visit to the new Patan Museum is a must. The museum faces Durbar Square and is housed in a beautifully restored and renovated former Malla residential palace. The collection spans much of Nepal’s cultural history, primarily exhibiting metalwork sculptures from Hindu and Buddhist deities, typical of Patan’s tradition in craftsmanship. Written commentary explains their significance to Nepal’s art history, spiritualism, cultural heritage and contemporary life.

After breakfast start your sightseeing tour of World Heritage Sites. Visit Boudhanath Stupa; listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Boudhanath Stupa is one of the most imposing landmarks of Kathmandu. This ancient stupa is built on a massive three level mandala style platform. The base of the stupa is adorned with 108 small images of the Dhyani Amitabha Buddha and inset with prayer wheels. Thousands of pilgrims circle the stupa in a clockwise direction each day spinning the prayer wheels.
Then continue to Pashupatinath Temple, the most sacred of all Hindu temples in Nepal situated on the banks of the holy Bagmati River. Non Hindus are not allowed to enter the temple precincts but may look into premises from the opposite bank. It draws tens of thousands of pilgrims and devotees from Nepal and India during the festival of Mahashivaratri (the night of Lord Shiva).

Drive to Bhaktapur City - home of medieval art and architecture, also known as the 'City of Devotees'. Tread the 17th century along cobbled pavements and marvel at the ancient architectures. Visit the Lion Gate, the Picture Gallery, the Golden Gate, and the Palace of Fifty five Windows.

Later evening enjoy the farewell dinner with the group at the selected local restaurant including wine or beer. 

Overnight at Hotel

Your journey comes to an end today when you are transferred to the airport to board your onward flight.