Mystical Nepal

It is revered as one of the holiest Shaivite temples in the region. Although entrance to the main shrine is only allowed to Hindus, explore the sprawling complex within which the temple is located. Visit the burning ghats, witness the spellbinding evening aarti, pay homage to the caves of Mahasiddha Naropa and Tilopa, and meditate.

Along with Boudhanath, Swayambhunath is the oldest Buddhist stupa in the Kathmandu Valley. It’s a Tantric Buddhist stupa par excellence with shrines dedicated to the Five Dhyani Buddhas and their consorts. In addition to the main stupa, there also exist myriad esoteric shrines, statues, and temples, which we visit and receive in-depth explanations about. Also take part in some Buddhist chanting, butter lamp offerings, and kora (circumambulations) of the stupa.

It is one of the three main royal squares in the Kathmandu Valley. The site is famous for the Kala Bhairava shrine, Sveta Bhairava shrine, Taleju Temple, Kumari Ghar (house of the Kumari, the living goddess of Kathmandu) among others. Additionally, we would also venture beyond the famous spots at the Durbar Square and visit the mysterious Akash Bhairava, Itum Bahal monastery, Seto Machindranath temple, etc.

Also known as Lalitpur, Patan is home to the Kathmandu Valley’s finest craftsmen who have persevered to preserve ancient Newar art and architectural styles. While most tourist groups only visit Patan Durbar Square, some of the most significant temples, shrines, and monasteries lie beyond the royal area. Visit the most sacred Buddhist and Hindu pilgrimage sites such as the Golden Temple, the Yempi Mahavihara, Ashoka Stupa, Mahabouddha Temple, Kumbheshvar Mahadeva temple, Chamunda Temple etc.

Located around 20 km from the city, Pharping is an important pilgrimage site for Vajrayana Buddhists, especially followers of Guru Padmasambhava, the 8th-century Indian tantric master who established the dharma in Tibet. Visit two caves where the master is said to have meditated and accomplished siddhis. Visit the massive statue of the master and meditate there. After that, visit and pay homage to Dakshinkali, one of the most powerful Kali temples in the Kathmandu Valley.

Along with Boudhanath and Swayambhunath, Namo Buddha is said to be the third most important Buddhist pilgrimage site in the Kathmandu Valley. It’s believed to be the site where Shakyamuni Buddha offered his flesh to a hungry tigress in his past life as Mahasattva. Located far away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Namo Buddha is a peaceful site offering majestic mountain views. Visit the Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery monastic complex, observe the rituals of the monastery, offer butter lamps, and meditate.

As our journey through this enchanting Himalayan country comes to a close, we bid you a heartfelt farewell. Fly from the Katmandhu airport onward anytime after 2:30 pm.

May you depart with cherished memories and perhaps newfound friendships, along with a trove of captivating photographs capturing the essence of Nepal. Until we meet again in this land of timeless enchantment, Tashi Delek!