Detail Itenary
Day 1: April 1st
Arrival in Kathmandu
Welcome to the heart of Nepal! As you arrive at your own time, check into your cozy hotel in Thamel, my favorite part of the city. Thamel is a lively and vibrant hub that has something special for every traveler.
I love how its streets come alive with vibrant shops, delightful cafes, and an energy that feels welcoming. It offers everything from handcrafted Souvenirs and traditional Nepali Handicrafts to Tibetan art and Himalayan herbal products. (Tip :Good place to pick up some Masala chai for friends at home. Despite its bustling streets, you will find hidden corners of peace with Buddhist prayer flags fluttering in small shrines.
It is an experience of Kathmandu’s lively spirit and creativity.
We recommend spending the evening exploring at your leisure, soaking in the charm of this buzzing neighborhood.
Day 2: April 2nd
Spiritual Exploration
We begin our spiritual journey with a visit to Linga Bhairavi Devi Temple which is a sacred and vibrant space that holds deep spiritual significance for devotees and seekers alike.
This place holds a special energy—so palpable, it hit us the moment we stepped inside and it stayed with us long after we left. Got to know later that Sadhguru had consecrated this Devi Temple in a slightly different way for Nepal using a distinct process to suit the region’s spiritual and cultural context.
This temple is a unique manifestation of feminine energy designed to bring balance and support to all aspects of life.
• Visitors can offer Devi Vastram (cloth), Light Ghee Lamps, to connect with the grace of Devi.
• It is a serene place for meditation, reflection, and connecting with one’s inner self.
Next, we’ll head to Boudhanath Stupa,
a space filled with serene energy and colorful Tibetan art and is deeply rooted in Tibetan Buddhism.
It is one of the largest and most iconic stupas in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is said to house relics of Kasyapa Buddha, making it a sacred pilgrimage site for Buddhists from around the globe. The stupa symbolizes the path to enlightenment, with its design reflecting the key elements of Buddhist philosophy.
We saw ardent devotees walking around the stupa, performing a kora, an integral spiritual practice. They circle the stupa clockwise while spinning prayer wheels and chanting mantras, especially “Om Mani Padme Hum.
It’s said that a single kora around Boudhanath, performed with devotion, is equivalent to years of spiritual practice.
The stupa is believed to have been built on the remains of an ancient trade route connecting Tibet and Nepal.
If you’re an art lover, you’ll find exquisite Tibetan thangka paintings and other handcrafted items in the shops around the stupa.
I couldn’t resist buying a traditional Thangka painting here—it’s one of my most cherished keepsakes. (image of us at the shop with the artists andthe painting )
We will have our lunch overlooking the Stupa.
The experience of simply sitting on a rooftop café, sipping traditional tea, and watching the prayer flags flutter in the breeze is unforgettable.
After a flavorful Nepali lunch, we’ll visit Pashupatinath Temple, located on the banks of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu. It is one of the most sacred Hindu temples in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it attracts devotees, sadhus, and tourists from across the globe. While it is primarily a religious site, the temple also offers foreigners a unique glimpse into Nepalese culture, spirituality, and traditions.
Only Hindus/ Indians are allowed to enter the main sanctum of the temple, but foreigners can explore the surrounding complex and observe the rituals from the periphery. Elevated viewpoints provide a good perspective of the main temple and the river ghats.
The cremation rites at Pashupatinath Temple, particularly during the evening, are among the most profound and moving experiences one can witness in Nepal. These ceremonies are deeply rooted in Hindu beliefs about life, death, and rebirth, offering visitors a glimpse into the culture’s spiritual outlook on mortality and the afterlife.
After soaking in the Culture and heritage of the day, we Return to the hotel for dinner.
Day 3: April 2nd - Cultural Discovery & Scenic Retreat
Today, we journey through the rich cultural tapestry of the Kathmandu Valley.
We start with Patan Durbar Square - A Jewel of Newari Architecture ​
I was mesmerized by the beautifully restored temples and courtyards. The Patan Museum is a hidden gem, offering a glimpse into Nepal’s artistic heritage.
This is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site often referred to as the “City of Fine Arts,” Patan offers an immersive glimpse into Nepal’s rich history and craftsmanship.
Housed within the restored palace, the museum, showcasing traditional Nepalese art and artifacts, is one of the best in South Asia.
Its no wonder that this museum was lauded for its restoration efforts following the 2015 earthquake.
Believed to have been built during the reign of King Bhaskar Varma in the 12th century, the Golden Temple is one of Nepal’s oldest and most revered Buddhist monasteries next on our list for the day.
Every corner of the temple features exquisite wood and metal carvings depicting Buddhist deities, mythological stories, and animals like elephants and lions that symbolize protection.
We enjoyed wandering through these alleyways, where you’ll encounter traditional Newar-style houses with wooden windows, intricately carved facades, and clay-tiled rooftops. These structures, many of which date back centuries, showcase the craftsmanship and architectural skills of the Newar people. I could spend hours just marveling at the stories they depict.
These alleys offer a glimpse into the daily life of Patan’s residents, many of whom still maintain traditional lifestyles. It’s like stepping back in time, with little shops, temples, and local artisans continuing practices handed down through generations.
Then, onto Bhaktapur another UNESCO World Heritage Site and a treasure trove of ancient culture, traditional art, and stunning architecture.
It is like stepping back in time to Nepal’s medieval era. The moment we set foot in this historic city, we were immediately struck by the intricate brick-paved streets, the scent of fresh pottery, and the rhythm of life that seems unhurried, deeply connected to tradition and untouched by modernity.
What we noticed was that the town is quieter than Kathmandu with the absence of cars allowing you to soak in the serenity and charm.
What I enjoyed most was walking through the streets, observing local life up close.
Entering The heart of Bhaktapur - Bhaktapur Durbar Square, is an open-air museum of ancient temples, courtyards, and palaces.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square is one of Nepal’s most iconic and best-preserved heritage sites. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was once the royal palace complex of the Malla kings who ruled Bhaktapur from the 12th to the 18th century. Today, it offers travelers a chance to experience the grandeur of Nepal’s past through its rich art, architecture, and culture.
Some of our favourites were
The 55-Window Palace, While the interiors are closed to visitors, the exterior details are a marvel worth admiring up close.
Golden Gate Known as “Lu Dhowka”, the Golden Gate is considered one of the finest examples of metalwork in Nepal.
Vatsala Temple: dedicated to the goddess Vatsala Devi, features exquisite carvings and a massive bell, often referred to as the “Bell of Barking Dogs” because of the sound it emits during rituals. The temple was damaged during the 2015 earthquake, but its remnants still reflect its former glory.
Nyatapola Temple: dedicated to Siddhi Lakshmi, a powerful Tantric goddess. This five-story pagoda is Nepal’s tallest temple. We climbed the steep steps and spent some time up there enjoying panoramic views of the square and the surrounding town.
Pottery Square: Watching the potters at work in Pottery Square is such a joy— and we have to try their famous curd, Juju Dhau ( King of Yoghurts )
By evening, we’ll arrive at Nagarkot, my go-to spot for breathtaking Himalayan views. As the sun sets, the mountains light up in shades of gold—it’s magical.
We will check in at the hotel and over Dinner spend the evening sharing stories about the day’s adventures—laugh over little discoveries, compare favorite moments, and relive the magic of exploring Nepal’s timeless treasures together.
Day 4: April 4th Nagarkot
Waking up in Nagarkot is like a dream. The sunrise over the Himalayan peaks is mesmerizing. It was the best sunrise I have witnessed till date.
After that we will head to an invigorating morning Hatha Yoga session that will ground and rejuvenate you for the day.
For the adventurers, we’ll trek through lush trails or take bicycles to explore the area. If you’d prefer to relax, a spa session is an excellent choice. The day is yours to soak in the peace and beauty of Nagarkot.
The serene environment makes it easy to lose track of time, and it's the perfect way to connect with nature, clear your mind, and recharge your spirit.
Day 4: April 5th
On our final morning, we’ll gather for one last sunrise yoga session, and a closing circle reflecting on the journey we shared.
Depending on your departure flight, after breakfast, enjoy a bit of free time or set off on your onward journey, carrying with you not just memories but a sense of deep connection and inner peace.
This retreat is crafted from places and experiences I hold close to my heart. It’s more than just a trip—it’s a journey into the soul of Nepal, and I can’t wait to share it with you!
