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Kathmandu is an incredibly diverse historic city with breathtaking Newari architecture, centuries old Hindu and Buddhist religious sites along with dedicated tourist-friendly accommodations and restaurants. Stepping into Kathmandu is like stepping into another world that everybody should experience at least once in their lifetime.
Kathmandu is a city where ancient traditions rub shoulders with the latest technology. The grandeur of the past enchants the visitor whose gaze may linger on an exquisitely carved wooden window frame, an 18th century bronze sculpture or a spiritually uplifting stupa. Kathmandu, the largest city of Nepal, is the political as well as cultural capital of the country.
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Itineraries
Day 01
Arrival in Kathmandu
Arriving Kathmandu from your home-port, where our representative meets you at the airport, transfer you to the hotel nearby Thamel . Today halfday sightseeing of Kathmandu city,our tour guide will take you on a tour of Kathmandu city including the Pashupatinath , Boudhanath. -Pashupatinath The Pashupatinath Temple is a famous, sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Pashupatinath and is located on the banks of the Bagmati River 5 kilometres north-east of Kathmandu Valley in the eastern. Here, monkeys run up and down the steps of the burning ghats, and trident-bearing saddhus draped in burnt-orange and saffron sit serenely meditating, when they’re not posing for photos-for-rupees. Local guides can explain the significance of the complicated ceremonies. Please be respectful when taking photos. -Boudhanath Boudhanath, in the midst of traditional monasteries (gompas) and hung with long strings of multi-colored prayer flags, attracts Sherpas, Tibetans and tourists alike for daily circumambulations (koras) of the iconic stupa. The striking Buddha eyes of Boudhanath Stupa watch over a lively and colorful Tibetan community and attract pilgrims from all over the Himalayan Buddhist realm. There are wonderful spots for lunch at Boudhanath (Roadhouse Cafe has wood-oven pizzas and a breathtaking view of the stupa and colorful Nepals circling it), and it's a good place to learn the technique of thanka painting and purchase a thanka (Buddhist mural). Inlcudes: Transportation, Accommodation,Permit feesDay 02
Fullday Sightseeing
-Swoyambhunath Swoyambhunath stupa (known as the monkey temple) which rises from the Kathmandu valley floor at 1420 meters and is one of the holiest Buddhist sites in Nepal. Swayambunath, the 'self created’ stupa, was founded over 2000 years ago at a time when the Kathmandu valley was filled by a large lake, with a single lotus in the center. Mythology says that Manjusri, a bodhisvatti, drained the lake with one cut of his sword and the lotus flower was transformed into the stupa. From its commanding views of Kathmandu, circumambulate Swayambunath's white-washed stupa, painted with distinctive Buddha eyes, the complex a unique synthesis of Buddhism and Hinduism. Another interesting time to visit Swayambhunath is in the mornings, when Nepalis visit the temple dedicated to the God of Smallpox to with colorful offerings for the goddess. -Kathmandu Durbar Square Wander through the many temples, pagodas, courtyards and the museum at Kathmandu Durbar Square, a timeless gathering spot and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Kathmandu Durbar Square, including the old royal palace, is Kathmandu's 'Palace Square', a showcase for the world renown artisans and craftsmen of Kathmandu and a synthesis of Hindu and Buddhist palaces, temples, stupas and statues. The Malla and Shah kings ruled over the Kathmandu Valley during the centuries of the building of the layers of this Durbar Square. Along with their opulent palaces, the square surrounds numerous courtyards and temples, all works of art with intricate and often erotic carvings. Kathmandu Durbar Square is known as Hanuman Dhoka Durbar Square, a name derived from a statue of Hanuman, the monkey devotee of Lord Ram, at the entrance of the palace. The social, religious and urban focal point of the city, Durbar Square is often the site of festivals, marriages and other ceremonies such as Teej. Some important structures are Hanuman Dhoka Palace, Kumari Ghar (Abode of the Living Goddess), Taleju Temple, built between the 12th and 18th centuries, the 17th century stone inscription set into the wall of the palace with writings in 15 languages. -Patan Durbar Square Patan, the oldest 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. The city is surrounded by 4Stupas 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 the these monuments. Patan Durbar square is the famous visiting place.The major attraction of Patan Durbar Square is Patan Museum,Hiranya Varma Mahavir,Golden Window,Golden Temple,Krishna Temple,Mahabouddha Temple. Inlcudes: Transportation, Breakfast, Accommodation, Permit fees.Day 03
Full day SightSeeing
Today, we will visit remaining attraction of Kathmandu city after our breakfast. -Bhaktapur Durbar Square Bhaktapur Durbar Square, located in the center of Bhaktapur city, is a conglomeration of pagoda and shikhara-style temples grouped around a fifty-five window palace of brick and wood. The square is one of the most charming architectural showpieces of the 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. The main attraction of Bhaktapur Darbar Square are 55 Window Palace,Golden Gate,Lion's Gate,Mini Pashupati Temple,Vatsala Temple,Nyatapola Temple and Bhairava Nath Temple. -Changunarayan Changu Narayan temple is Vishnu, well known as the preserver god of creation to Hindus, lies in the village of Changu in Bhaktapur district. The temple is ancient temple and oldest to be discovered in Nepal, is located in the temple compound and it tells of the victorious King Mandev. Changunarayan Temple is historical temple as well as religion. Changunarayan Temple was built in pagoda style around 3rd century by the king Manadev.The temple is decorated by some of the best samples of stone, wood, and metal craft in the Valley. It offers to see you different types of sculptors and carvings of stones, wood and metals inside the temple premise. The tourist guide says, "When you look upon Changu Narayan, you observe the complete cultural development of the Kathmandu Valley. -Panauti Panauti is an old Newari settlement, which is 32 kms Southeast of Kathmandu. It has some the most interesting in the valley and is set on the confluence of two rivers. The village also boasts one of the only two known pre-17th century structure of Mahadev temple. Apart from other many temples it is a pleasure to wander the town's brick paved streets to view the magnificently carved rest houses, stupas and stone watertaps. Inlcudes: Transportation, Breakfast, Accommodation,Permit feesDay 04
Departure
Our team will ensure that you are transferred on time to the airport for your flights if you are departing Nepal. Includes: Transportation, BreakfastCost Includes
- Three nights accommodation in Kathmandu in decent hotel in breakfast basis
- All the transportation in private vehicle according to the itinerary.
- Daily breakfast in the hotel before the tours
- Tour Entrances fees of the monuments
- Professional Tour Guide of Kathmandu city
- Airport Pickup and Drop
Cost Excludes
- All the meals except breakfast in Kathmandu
- Beverage and expenses of personal nature.
- Travel insurance
- Air fare and airport tax
- Special Drinks
- Cost of personal nature such as laundry, telephone, Tips
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Pricing NameStartEndGroup (Min-Max)Pricing
All foreign nationals, except Indian citizens, need visas to enter Nepal. You can apply for a Nepalese visa from Nepalese Embassy or consulate in your home country. Alternatively, can also obtain your entry visa upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu upon your arrival.On arrival visa program takes more than 1:30 hours because of queue for visa and luggage.
You may need following information while filling the visa form:-
Office name: Apex Himalaya Treks & Expedition
Location: Thahity Chowk, Thamel, Kathmandu, Nepal
Phone number of office : +977 1-4257635
House number of office: 135/13
Hotel name: _____________
Location of hotel: ___________
Phone number of hotel: _____________
Zip code: 44601
(Please note: we will send you the actual hotel detail near to date of travel.
Contact person in Nepal: Bimal Karki
Contact person number in Nepal: +977-9841037700
A valid passport must be valid for up to 6 months after you return from your tour; two passport size photo and the visa fee in USD cash only.
New Visa Valid Fees provision from 17th July 2019
15 days US$ 30
30 days US$ 50
90 days US$ 125
Many travelers will experience culture shock upon arrival in a new country and is a common experience whether you are travelling for business, pleasure or long term settlement. Nepal is no different, as it is unique in terms of its customs, food and language.
Gathering information and being completely prepared for the unexpected will ensure you can adjust quickly to Nepal upon arrival.
The following list provides some key facts to assist in your arrival and enable easy adjustment.
Food / Water
• People eat their food with the right hand. Take care to wash your hands. Importantly, it is suggested your left hand remains below the table if you choose to eat with your hands. In most restaurants you will be provided the option of using either a spoon, fork or chopsticks.
• Nepalese food is not too spicy, though if you wish to ensure that the dish you are ordering is suitable to your tastes, it is wise to ask.
• Whilst trekking at altitude it pays to eat simple foods whilst you become accustomed to the change in oxygen levels. The general recommendations is to eat non fried foods. The traditional meal of Dahl Bhatwhich is rice, vegetable and dahl is a staple.
Culture
• Public display of affection (kissing and hugging) is considered offensive.
• When removing shoes, sandals or slippers place them the right way up. Placing them upside down is considered to bring bad luck. Inside a home or temple is it is common place to remove shoes, seek advice from your host or temple guide to clarify and direct you.
• Physical disciplining such as hitting or spanking a child by a parent is not considered improper in Nepal, though there are varying views and ideas. You will observe this at times throughout Nepal. We suggest that you don’t try and intervene. In the event that someone disciplines a child or minor in an in-appropriate manner you can be assured that another Nepali person will step in. They understand the cultural norms and nuances.
• Animals may be sacrificed during Hindu festivals and in other religious and non-religious activities such as a visit to a witch doctor. We suggest that you don’t try and intervene. This is likely to cause offence. Make enquiries with regard to what is to happen at a festival or religious event if you wish to avoid such a situation.
• In general, Nepali people are highly uncomfortable with nudity and immodest clothing. To avoid this, men should wear a top, even when it is hot. Women should cover shoulders and wear skirt/shorts at least to the knee. This is the case both in urban, rural settings and when trekking.
• If you decide to wear Nepali traditional clothing (kurta or sari for women, daurasuruwal and dhakatopi cap for men) this is usually welcomed as a sign that you respect Nepali culture.
• Nepali people take pride in their appearance and whilst it is not necessary to be too particular, having a clean and tidy appearance shows respect for yourself and for those around you – so keeping your clothing, hair and facial hair tidy will be appreciated.
On the street / General
• Be attentive on the street, assume that a vehicle may be on the opposite side that you expect it to approach. On a busy street without lights or an obvious crossing point, you may wish to cross the road with other Nepali people. A simple smile of recognition of the situation and you will find they will provide assistance.
• Buses stop even in places there aren’t bus stops. Just wave. They will stop.
• When in Nepal, don’t expect things to go on time. You will face delays almost in all activities. There is even a phrase “Nepali Time” which is used sarcastically to point out delay in activities.
• Throughout Nepal electricity outages and load shedding plays havoc with people’s lives. This can generally be avoided by staying in a reputable hotel. It is worth asking the hotel management if they have a back-up power supply and whether it is operational.
• The Nepali term for a strike “bandha” in Nepali. Although they are no longer common place, you may find yourself travelling in Nepal when a strike occurs. If there is a general and complete strike, buses may not operate and shops can be closed. Seek advice from your hotel manager, guide or local people if a strike is to occur. There is good information on the internet via a simple search.
Whilst Nepal is a very busy tourist destination, culturally the country continues to welcome visitors. There is an understanding by everyone of the importance of tourism economically.
Whether you are trekking in the mountains or touring the Kathmandu valley we suggest you that you treat the land its people with care & respect.
Below are some tips on how you can keep the environment clean and show appreciation for age-old culture and traditional religious beliefs. Nepal's Culture might be astonishing and surprising for newcomers therefore these tips are sometimes necessary.
Do
• To show gratitude and respect, use both of your hands rather than one when giving or receiving something, even money. It seen as a gesture of respect.
• Remove your shoes when entering a home, temple or monastery (and leather items in Hindu temples)
Don’t
• Remember not to point with a single finger but use a flat extended hand especially to indicate a sacred object or place.
• Among Hindus, avoid touching women and holy men. People, especially women, do not normally shakes hands when they greet one another, but instead press palms together in a prayer-like gesture known as "Namaste" greeting is preferable.
• Don't eat with your left hand. The left hand is for toileting only.
• Never eat beef in front of Hindus & Buddhist because beef is strictly prohibited among both Hindus and Buddhists. Cows are sacred in Nepal.
• Try not to step over or point your feet at another person, a sacred place or a hearth.
• Smoking and wearing scant dress in religious settings. Remember, some of the temples entrance may be prohibited for non-Hindus.
• It is better not to touch offerings or persons when they are on way to shrines, especially if you are non-Hindu.
• Don't offer food to a Nepalese after tasting it, nor eat from a common pot, and avoid touching your lips to a shared drinking vessel.
• The sight of men holding hands is common, but men and women holding hands, and general acts of affection, are frowned upon.
• Do walk around monastery or temple clockwise, so that the outer walls are always on your right. If you encounter a stone wall covered with Tibetan inscriptions, do the same: Walk past with the wall on your right (and don't take any of the stones).
• Don't lose your control. Raising your voice or shouting is seen as extremely bad manners in Nepal too and will only make any problem worse.
• Do get a receipt of in authenticity when purchasing an antique replica? Otherwise, you will not be allowed to take it out of the country. And don't buy ivory or fur from endangered species? Your purchases encourage the trade in such illegal goods, and you won't be allowed to bring them back home anyway.
• Don't give in to children who ask for just one rupee. Although a rupee is a small amount that anyone can spare, successful begging leads young children to drop out of school and take up panhandling as their trade. If you want to help, give to a trustworthy charity or a school.
• Don't take photographs of locals, holy shrines & temples unless consent has been provided.
Most treks pass through villages with very simple ablution facilities and farm lands. There is always villages above the trail, all water should be boiled or treated before consumption. Even clean spring water may contain biological or chemical contamination due to local minerals and be totally harmless to locals but may not be tolerated by tourists. It is wise to avoid non-boiled or untreated water. If it is available, bottled mineral water at the tea houses and lodges are provided at a reasonable cost. Consider your impact on the environment and bring water treatment methods to Nepal which ensure you don’t have to purchase bottled water or boiled water.
Yes. In the past, Nepal has experienced political unrest, however since November of 2006, the signed Nepal Peace Agreement, between the Government of Nepal and the Nepal Communist Party (Maoists) has brought this unrest to a close.
The best season to visit Nepal is after the monsoons that end in August until mid-December, before the winter sets in. Also, from mid-February to early June are the most preferred months by visitors. During these two periods, the rains wash the dusty tracks and the valley looks magnificent with blooming flowers. Mountain views are clear most of the time.
It is best to visit hilly areas in summer that is, the months of May and June. The average temperature at that time is around 22-25 degrees Celsius. Nights are a bit chilly in the lower Himalayan region but are comfortable. Mountainous areas are extremely unsafe during the monsoon season, which are very common. The persistent rains make the hilly tracts slippery.
In winter, most of the hilly areas become threats due to very heavy snowfall and avalanches, but if you are fond of snowfall then you can opt for the lower Himalayan regions that look beautiful covered in blankets of snow.
You should contact your general practitioner or travel clinic for the latest travel health advice. It is advisable to be up-to-date with Tetanus, Polio, Typhoid, and Hepatitis A vaccination shots. If you are extending your stay in Nepal you may need anti-malarial protection.
You can exchange in Nepal, primarily in Kathmandu and in Pokhara. It really depends on your budget and what you want to do and for how long but approximately $500-$1700 in either travelers’ cheques or cash for your trip would be sufficient. ATM cards and credit cards can be used in Kathmandu, Pokhara and other cities if additional cash needed. You will need $30 for the tourist visa fee (can receive visa upon entry) at the Kathmandu International Airport. You must pay only in cash in U.S. dollars or Euros. It is advisable to exchange your money either on your first day or the day after while you are in Kathmandu at a reliable money exchange counter.
In general, yes. But, it's always good to take sensible precautions in order to avoid any health problems. No matter how tempting and it can get very tempting after a long trek- avoid drinking any other water than bottled water.Do not eat roadside food that is exposed in the open air. Avoid buying and eating raw and unpeeled fruit and vegetables. Other than that, it is fine to have boiled, fried or properly packaged food items.
First of all, your trekking guide will provide you with First Aid. If the case becomes more serious, you will be transferred to a health post where you can consult with a doctor. For acute sickness, at your request, you will be immediately taken down by helicopter or airplane to Kathmandu for treatment and rest. It is strongly recommended to descend from the mountain if you are suffering severely from altitude sickness.
You should bring a valid passport (must be valid for up to 6 months after you return from your tour; keep an extra photocopy just in case), a copy of your travel insurance, cash and traveler’s checks (keep numbers and proof of purchase separately); flight tickets, emergency contact numbers of T/C’s, banks, insurance and family members and any medications.
If you want to make modifications to your customized itinerary (Not applicable for fixed departures) even after you confirmed your booking, it is possible. We provide free alterations one time. However, after this, we charge a US $30 dollar surcharge for every new modification but this must be made 15 days prior to your trip so that we can adjust our schedule to your new trip itinerary.
Cancellation of the trip is not possible and you will lose your 10% deposit amount. We won’t charge the amount if the trip is postponed (only once) with valid reason. Postponing notice is required a minimum of 30 days prior to trip departure. If you fail to give proper notice within 30 days prior to your trip departure or do not show up at your scheduled arrival time without prior notice, you will forfeit 100% of the total cost of your trip.
Note: Changes may be possible, but are not guaranteed.
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