Kathmandu and Lumbini Tour – 5 Days

After breakfast, you begin your full-day guided tour of Kathmandu's UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The journey starts with a visit to Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, which offers panoramic views of the entire valley. As you climb the steps, encounter prayer wheels, colorful murals, and playful monkeys that call this sacred hill home. From here, you'll proceed to Kathmandu Durbar Square, once the royal palace of the Malla kings. Explore ancient courtyards, intricately carved wooden temples, and the living goddess Kumari’s residence. The square is a vivid reminder of the capital’s regal history and Newari craftsmanship.

Next, you'll visit Pashupatinath Temple, Nepal’s holiest Hindu shrine situated along the sacred Bagmati River. Witness the spiritual rituals, sadhus in saffron robes, and cremation ceremonies performed by the riverbank. Your final stop is the grand Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest spherical stupas in the world. Surrounded by Tibetan monasteries, prayer wheels, and chants of "Om Mani Padme Hum," the area offers a calming end to a day full of cultural encounters. Return to your hotel in the evening for leisure or optional traditional spa treatments to unwind.

After an early breakfast, you'll be transferred to the domestic airport for a short scenic flight to Bhairahawa, the nearest airport to Lumbini. Upon arrival, you’ll drive for about 40 minutes through the plains of the Terai to reach Lumbini – the birthplace of Lord Buddha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After checking into your hotel and a brief rest, begin your exploration of this spiritually significant destination. Start with the Sacred Garden, where the Mayadevi Temple marks the exact spot of Buddha’s birth. The stone marker and the nativity sculpture are deeply moving symbols of peace.

Walk along the Ashokan Pillar, built in 249 BC by Emperor Ashoka to commemorate his pilgrimage. You’ll also visit the sacred Puskarini Pond, believed to be where Queen Mayadevi bathed before giving birth. Later in the afternoon, explore various international monastic zones where countries like Thailand, Myanmar, Germany, and China have built uniquely styled monasteries. These monuments reflect global Buddhist architecture and provide serene surroundings ideal for quiet reflection or meditation. Return to your hotel for a relaxing evening and dinner, embracing the peace and reverence of this holy place.

After a peaceful morning and breakfast in Lumbini, you’ll retrace your steps to Bhairahawa Airport for your return flight to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, you will be escorted back to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free to explore at your own pace. You may choose to revisit favorite places like Thamel for souvenir shopping, explore local eateries for street food and authentic momos, or take a rickshaw ride around old Kathmandu's hidden alleys and local bazaars. Alternatively, rest at your hotel and enjoy the views from a rooftop café.

If you missed any destinations earlier or want more insight into Nepali culture, an optional visit to Patan Durbar Square or Garden of Dreams can be arranged. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with live cultural performances, recounting your short but rich journey through Nepal’s spiritual and historical sites. The blend of Buddhist tranquility from Lumbini and the architectural grandeur of Kathmandu offers a unique duality in this concise yet meaningful tour. You’ll go to bed with your heart full and soul touched by the stories and sights experienced.

Your final day in Nepal begins with breakfast at the hotel. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have a few hours for last-minute shopping or simply to relax in the hotel’s courtyard garden. Our representative will arrive in time to escort you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure. As you drive through the streets one last time, reflect on the journey filled with spiritual enlightenment, ancient history, and the ever-present smiles of the Nepali people.

Though your trip concludes today, the impressions of sacred temples, peaceful monasteries, and the serene aura of Buddha’s birthplace will linger long after you've left. Whether this was your first visit or a return to Nepal, the experiences gained and the memories created will surely inspire more explorations in the future. We bid you farewell with warm wishes and hope to welcome you back again soon—perhaps for a trek into the Himalayas or a deeper cultural journey into the heart of Nepal.