Nepal Tour Packages

Cradled by the Himalayas and laced with emerald valleys, glacial rivers, and ancient cities, Nepal is where nature and spirituality meet in dramatic fashion. From the golden spires of Kathmandu’s temples to the mirror-still waters of Pokhara’s lakes and the rhino-grasslands of Chitwan, the country offers a rare blend of adventure, culture, and serenity—all within easy reach of India. Expect warm smiles, prayer flags fluttering against snowpeaks, and a pace that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and look up.

Type of Destination

• Nature & Mountains: Epic Himalayan vistas, serene lakes, and national parks.
• Adventure: Trekking, paragliding, rafting, bungee, mountain flights.
• Pilgrimage & Culture: Pashupatinath, Lumbini (birthplace of the Buddha), living heritage towns.
• Wildlife: Chitwan and Bardia for jungle safaris and birding.
• Wellness & Slow Travel: Yoga retreats, village homestays, tea gardens.

Prime Season and Snow Season

• Prime Seasons:
  • October–November (post-monsoon): Crystal-clear skies, superb mountain views, major festivals.
  • March–April (spring): Rhododendrons in bloom, pleasant trekking weather, mellow crowds.
• Snow Season (for accessible snow):
  • December–February: Snow at higher hill stations and alpine zones; popular spots include Kalinchowk, parts of Upper Mustang, and high passes on treks. Lower valleys (Kathmandu/Pokhara) are cool and crisp but rarely see snow.

Languages Spoken

• Nepali (official); English widely used in tourism.
• Hindi is commonly understood, especially in cities and the Terai.
• Other regional tongues: Maithili, Bhojpuri, Newar (Nepal Bhasa), Tamang, Sherpa, Tharu.

Local Transport Options

• Taxis & Ride-Hailing: Metered taxis in cities; app services like Pathao and Tootle in Kathmandu/Pokhara.
• City Buses & Microbuses: Cheapest way to move around; Sajha Yatayat operates key routes in the valley.
• Tourist Buses & Private Cars: Comfortable intercity options for Pokhara, Chitwan, Lumbini.
• Domestic Flights: Time-savers to Pokhara, Bharatpur (Chitwan), Bhairahawa (Lumbini), Nepalgunj, Lukla, etc.
• Motorbikes & Bicycles: Popular in Pokhara and Thamel (Kathmandu) for short hops.

How to Reach Nepal (from India)

By Air

• Main gateway: Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), Kathmandu.
• Additional international gateways: Gautam Buddha International Airport (BWA) – Bhairahawa (Lumbini) and Pokhara International Airport (PKR).
• Typical direct/one-stop connections from India: Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Varanasi, Bengaluru (routes vary seasonally).
• Airlines frequently serving India–Nepal routes include Indian and Nepali carriers; schedules change—check latest timings.

By Road (Major Borders)

• Sunauli (UP) – Bhairahawa: For Lumbini, Pokhara, Kathmandu (via Butwal).
• Raxaul (Bihar) – Birgunj: Fastest road link to Kathmandu (via Hetauda).
• Jogbani (Bihar) – Biratnagar: Access to Eastern Nepal.
• Panitanki (WB/Siliguri) – Kakarbhitta: For eastern hills and onward to Kathmandu/Pokhara.
• Banbasa (UK) – Mahendranagar (Kanchanpur): For Far-West Nepal.
• Rupaidiha (UP/Bahraich) – Nepalgunj: For Bardia/Western Nepal.
• Good highways connect borders to major cities; expect monsoon delays due to landslides in hill sections.

By Rail

• India–Nepal passenger rail: The Jayanagar (Bihar) – Janakpur – Kurtha line connects directly into Nepal (handy for visiting Janakpur).
• Indian Railways to Gorakhpur, Raxaul, Jogbani, New Jalpaiguri (Siliguri), etc., then cross by road.

Best Time to Visit (Season-by-Season)

Note: Temperatures vary by altitude; below are typical city/valley ranges.

Summer (March–June)

• Months: Mar–Jun
• Weather: Pleasant to warm; Kathmandu ~18–30°C, Pokhara ~21–32°C; cooler in hill towns.
• Crowd Density: Moderate (rises in April–May for treks).
• Budget: Good mid-season deals except popular trekking hubs.
• Packing Tips: Light layers, sun protection, a light jacket for evenings in higher areas, sturdy shoes.

Monsoon (June–September)

• Months: Jun–Sep
• Weather: Warm, humid, frequent showers; lush landscapes.
• Crowd Density: Lower, except in valleys; fewer trekkers due to rain and leeches on trails.
• Budget: More value (discounts on stays/tours); internal flights may face weather delays.
• Packing Tips: Waterproof jacket, quick-dry clothes, leech socks for hikes, rain covers for bags, buffer days for travel.

Winter (December–February)

• Months: Dec–Feb
• Weather: Cool to cold; Kathmandu ~2–20°C, Pokhara ~7–23°C; snow at higher elevations.
• Crowd Density: Lower, except New Year/Christmas spikes.
• Budget: Attractive hotel rates; premium lodges still fill in holidays.
• Packing Tips: Warm layers, thermals for hill trips, wool cap/gloves, moisturizer/lip balm.

Places to Visit (Top Highlights)

1. Kathmandu Valley (UNESCO) – A treasure-trove of Durbar Squares, stupas, and courtyards:
   • Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath, Kathmandu/Patan/Bhaktapur Durbar Squares.
2. Pokhara – Lakeside town beneath the Annapurnas; Phewa Lake, World Peace Pagoda, Sarangkot sunrise.
3. Chitwan National Park (UNESCO) – Jungle safaris for one-horned rhinos, crocodiles, and birds; occasional tiger sightings.
4. Lumbini (UNESCO) – Birthplace of the Buddha, monasteries from around the world, sacred gardens.
5. Everest Region (Khumbu) – Fly to Lukla and trek to Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, or the Everest View trails.
6. Annapurna Region – Classic routes: Ghorepani–Poon Hill, Annapurna Base Camp, Mardi Himal.
7. Bhaktapur – Living Newar heritage city, Pottery Square, wood-and-brick architecture.
8. Nagarkot & Dhulikhel – Hill stations near Kathmandu with Himalayan sunrise views.
9. Bandipur – Restored hill-top town of alleys, temples, and distant snowpeaks.
10. Mustang – Mars-like landscapes, sky caves, Tibetan culture; Upper Mustang requires special permits.
11. Bardia National Park – Less-crowded alternative to Chitwan; wild and rewarding.
12. Rara & Phoksundo Lakes – High-altitude, sapphire-blue lakes for serious nature lovers.

Things to Do (Experiences)

• Everest Mountain Flight: 50–60 min scenic flight from Kathmandu; windows to the 8000ers.
• Paragliding in Pokhara: Soar over Phewa Lake with Annapurna views.
• Jungle Safari in Chitwan/Bardia: Jeep or canoe safaris, birdwatching, village walks.
• Cultural Walk in Patan/Bhaktapur: Meet artisans of metalwork, woodcarving, and pottery.
• Boating & Sunset at Phewa Lake: Row to Barahi Temple island; dusk reflections.
• Cable Cars: Chandragiri Hills near Kathmandu; hilltop views and easy family outing.
• Cooking Class: Learn momo folding and Newari flavors.
• Tea Garden Strolls (Ilam): Misty mornings, fragrant tastings.
• Hot Springs (Tatopani/Myagdi): Soothe trek-tired muscles.
• Photography Walks: Early morning in Asan Bazaar, prayer wheels and spice alleys.

Adventure Activities

• Trekking: From family-friendly Poon Hill to Annapurna Base Camp and Everest View treks.
• White-Water Rafting: Trishuli (beginner-friendly), Bhote Koshi (adrenaline), Seti (scenic).
• Bungee & Swing: Iconic jumps over Himalayan gorges (e.g., Bhote Koshi, Kushma/Parbat).
• Paragliding & Ultralight Flights: Pokhara is a global hub for both.
• Ziplining: Long, steep descents with epic mountain panoramas around Pokhara/Kushma.
• Mountain Biking: Ravines and ridge rides near Kathmandu and in the Annapurna foothills.
• Rock Climbing & Via Ferrata: Guided options around Kathmandu/Pokhara.
• Canyoning: Waterfalls and pools in mid-hill valleys.

Cuisines to Try

• Dal Bhat (lentils, rice, veggie curries, pickles) – Nepal’s soulful staple.
• Momo (veg/chicken/buff) with spicy chutney.
• Thukpa & Thenthuk – Hearty Tibetan-style noodle soups.
• Newari Platter: Bara (wo), Choila, Yomari, Chatamari.
• Sel Roti (festival rice doughnut), Gundruk (fermented greens), Aloo Tama (bamboo shoot curry).
• Sekuwa (grilled meat), Dhido (buckwheat/millet porridge).
• Drinks: Masala chiya, Tongba (warm millet brew), Raksi (local spirit).

Dining Places (Tried-and-True)

• Kathmandu:
  • Bhojan Griha (heritage dining with cultural shows)
  • Thamel House (traditional Newari ambiance)
  • OR2K (vegetarian-friendly, Middle Eastern flair)
  • Third Eye (Indian/Nepali fine dining)
  • Yangling (Tibetan comfort food)
• Patan: Cafe Swotha, Tasneem’s Kings Kitchen (Hyderabadi in the valley)
• Bhaktapur: Nyatapola Cafe, Beans The Coffee Shop
• Pokhara (Lakeside): Moondance, Rosemary Kitchen, OR2K Pokhara, Fresh Elements
• Chitwan (Sauraha): KC’s Restaurant & Bar

Resorts & Stays

• Kathmandu: Dwarika’s Hotel, Hyatt Regency, Aloft Thamel, Hotel Yak & Yeti, Vivanta Kathmandu
• Pokhara: Temple Tree Resort & Spa, The Pavilions Himalayas, Bar Peepal Resort, Fish Tail Lodge, Mountain Glory Forest Resort
• Chitwan: Meghauli Serai – Taj Safaris, Barahi Jungle Lodge, Green Park Chitwan
• Nagarkot: Club Himalaya, Hotel Mystic Mountain
• Bandipur: The Old Inn
• Budget favorites: Zostel (Kathmandu/Pokhara), Alobar1000 (Kathmandu), boutique homestays across the valley.

Nightlife

• Thamel, Kathmandu: Purple Haze Rock Bar, LOD (Lord of the Drinks), Trisara, Tom & Jerry’s Pub, The Factory
• Lazimpat & Durbarmarg: Stylish lounges and live-music venues.
• Pokhara Lakeside: Busy Bee Cafe, The Irish Pub, Club Paradiso, lakeside sunset bars.
• Cultural Evenings: Dinner with live Nepali folk dance at heritage restaurants.
• Casinos: Select hotels in Kathmandu host casino floors—carry valid ID.

Shopping

• What to Buy: Pashmina/cashmere, felt crafts, singing bowls, khukuri knives, lokta (handmade) paper, prayer flags, Thangka art, trekking gear, Ilam tea, organic coffee, spices.
• Where to Buy:
  • Thamel & Asan Bazaar (Kathmandu) – handicrafts, gear, souvenirs.
  • Patan – exquisite metalwork and statues.
  • Bhaktapur Pottery Square – hand-thrown ceramics.
  • Pokhara Lakeside – crafts, apparel, adventure gear.
  • Look for fair-trade stores like Sana Hastakala and cooperatives.

Off-beat Places (Hidden Gems)

• Panauti – Ancient town by river confluences; quiet temples and homestays.
• Tansen (Palpa) – Cobbled lanes, hilltop views, Palpali Dhaka textiles.
• Ilam & Kanyam – Rolling tea gardens and misty viewpoints in the east.
• Khaptad National Park – High meadows, rare herbs, meditation sites of sages.
• Rara Lake (Mugu) – Nepal’s largest lake, deep blue and remote.
• Marpha (Lower Mustang) – Stone alleys, apple orchards, pretty gompas.
• Phoksundo (Dolpo) – Turquoise lake ringed by stark cliffs; cinematic landscapes.
• Patlekhet/ Namo Buddha & Balthali – Forest walks, monastery visits, village life.

Festivals & Events (By Month)

• Maha Shivaratri (Feb/Mar): Grand night at Pashupatinath.
• Holi (Mar): Colorful revelry in cities and Terai.
• Bisket Jatra (April): New Year chariot festival in Bhaktapur.
• Buddha Jayanti (Apr/May): Processions and prayers in Lumbini and stupas.
• Rato Machhindranath Jatra (Apr–Jun): Long chariot festival in Patan.
• Indra Jatra (Aug/Sep): Living goddess Kumari’s chariot in Kathmandu.
• Teej (Aug/Sep): Women’s festival of fasting, songs, and red saris.
• Dashain (Sep/Oct): Nepal’s biggest festival—kites, family reunions.
• Tihar/Deepawali (Oct/Nov): Kukur Tihar (dogs), Bhai Tika, lamps and rangoli.
• Losar (Dec/Jan or Feb): Tibetan/Nepali New Year in highland communities.

Key Experiences (Must-Do)

• Sunrise at Sarangkot or Nagarkot with the Himalayas turning gold.
• Aarti and temple circuit: Pashupatinath, Boudhanath kora, Swayambhu at dusk.
• Short trek: Ghorepani–Poon Hill or Mardi Himal for big views in few days.
• Jungle safari in Chitwan or Bardia with a naturalist.
• Paraglide over Pokhara or take an ultralight flight.
• Everest mountain flight if you’re short on trekking time.
• Village homestay in Bandipur/Panauti for authentic food and stories.
• Newari food trail in Patan/Bhaktapur.

Travel Tips for Indians

• Entry & Documents: Indian citizens do not need a visa. Carry a valid Indian passport or Voter ID with photograph (Aadhaar is generally not accepted for air travel). Children should carry valid photo ID as required by airline/immigration; check current rules before travel.
• Currency: Nepali Rupee (NPR). Indian Rupees are widely used in tourist areas and near borders—carry smaller denominations (₹100/₹500); avoid large ₹2000 notes. Always keep some NPR for local payments.
• Payments: Card acceptance is improving; UPI acceptance is growing in major cities, but carry cash as backup.
• Time Zone: Nepal is 15 minutes ahead of IST (NST = UTC+5:45).
• Mobile & SIM: Buy local Ncell or Nepal Telecom SIM with ID; roaming works but can be costly.
• Power: 230V; plug types C, D, M.
• Health & Altitude: Drink sealed water; carry basic meds. For high treks, ascend gradually and know AMS symptoms.
• Permits: Popular treks may require TIMS and park/conservation permits (e.g., ACAP/MCAP, Sagarmatha National Park). Certain regions (e.g., Upper Mustang, Manaslu) need special permits and a licensed guide.
• Weather Buffer: In monsoon/winter, keep buffer days for flights to/from mountain airstrips (e.g., Lukla) due to weather.
• Road Safety: Mountain roads can be narrow; avoid night travel in hills when possible.
• Respect & Etiquette: Dress modestly at temples; walk clockwise around stupas; ask before photographing people or shrines.
• Tipping: Appreciated (5–10% in restaurants, more for guides/porters).
• Environment: Carry refillable bottles; avoid single-use plastics on treks.

Interesting Facts

• Nepal’s flag is the world’s only non-rectangular national flag.
• It hosts 8 of the world’s 14 peaks over 8,000 m, including Everest (Sagarmatha).
• Kathmandu Valley is a UNESCO site comprising seven monument zones packed with heritage.
• The Kali Gandaki Gorge is often cited among the world’s deepest.
• Lumbini is revered globally as the birthplace of the Buddha.
• A fixed peg links currencies: 1 INR ≈ 1.6 NPR (handy for mental math).
• The legendary Gurkhas hail from Nepal, famed for valor and the iconic khukuri.
• Nepal is a hotspot for adventure tourism, yet offers richly family-friendly itineraries.

For Indian travelers, Nepal feels both familiar and refreshingly different—a quick hop that opens a world of mountains, monasteries, music, and momos. Plan smart around the seasons, pack for layers, keep a spirit of curiosity, and let the Himalayas do the rest.