Is your family also looking for a chance to unwind from the busy life of the city? The kids might have an upcoming vacation, while you are feeling worn out from your work. But choosing the perfect holiday destination isn’t exactly a piece of cake, right?
Well, leave that hassle to Altitude Himalaya. We truly believe that Nepal is the best choice for everyone. This itinerary that we have crafted includes the best experiences your family can enjoy. From learning about new cultures, trying new foods, getting close to nature, enjoying a wonderful hiking experience, to adrenaline-rushing thrilling adventures, Nepal has it all for you and your kids!
You won’t just have fun visiting Nepal, but you’ll also learn so much. Most importantly, it’s absolutely safe, especially with the assistance of Altitude Himalaya.
Enough talking. Let’s now dive right into the places you’ll visit on this 13-day Family tour in Nepal. And remember: the list isn’t limited! There’s much more than our words can express, and to discover it all, you must visit here.
KATHMANDU VALLEY’s Rich Culture and Traditions
You’ll spend four days in the valley, and there’s no doubt that you’ll learn so much about the people and their way of life.
There are countless places to visit in Kathmandu, Lalitpur, and Bhaktapur. However, this 13-day family package is curated in a way that covers only the must-visit places, allowing you to explore other beautiful parts of Nepal as well.
With Altitude Himalaya, you'll visit six of the seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites located here. Let’s take a quick look at their main highlights:
Seek Blessings From Pashupatinath Temple
This Shiva temple has remained the heart of Kathmandu ever since its construction back in the 4th century. It’s even believed to be a must-visit place for every Hindu to receive divine blessings from the “lord of all beings.”
Altitude Himalaya sincerely prays that the blessings of Pashupatinath Temple keeps you safe and happy throughout this 13-day tour, and for all your lives! We ensure that you’ll get to experience every nook and cranny of this holy site.
As a highlight, you’ll sit by the Bagmati riverside, observing the cremation sites, receive blessings inside the temple (if you’re a Hindu). Also, you’ll visit nearby places like Gorakhnath Temple, Guhyeshwari Temple, the Idol of Birupakshya, the religious market, and the famous viewpoint.
Find Peace in Boudhanath Stupa
This monument sits right in the heart of the bustling city of Kathmandu. It’s truly incredible how the moment you pass through the entrance, your eyes fall upon the “Eyes of Buddha”.
The colorful prayer flags calm your mind, and your heart warms with the energy of people doing the kora walk. You’d want to join them immediately.
The Boudhanath Stupa is primarily a pilgrimage site for the Tibetan Buddhist community. But don’t be surprised to see people from all backgrounds visiting here to experience its unique architecture and the calming Buddhist culture.
Explore the Sacred Swayambhunath Stupa
Often referred to as the ‘Monkey Temple,’ Swayambhunath Stupa is another iconic monument that beautifully reflects Buddhist culture and history.
When visiting here, you’ll start from the Swayambhu (Amideva) Buddha Park and head towards the Swayambhu MahaChaitya, after climbing approximately 365 steps.
Along the way, you’ll encounter numerous monkeys and pass by the World Peace Pond. Other notable monuments in the area include the Vajra, Harati (Ajima) Temple, Shantipur, Anantapur, and Pratappur Temples.
Besides these monuments, you can also enjoy panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley, as the stupa sits atop a hill. To the north, you’ll even catch sight of the majestic mountains during the winter season, when the weather is clear.
Walk Through the Kathmandu Durbar Square Area
To dive into Nepal’s rich history and learn about the kings who safeguarded the land from British India, Kathmandu Durbar Square offers everything you need to know.
Step into the Hanuman Dhoka Palace Museum to explore royal artifacts, ancient manuscripts, intricately carved wooden thrones, etc.
Remember, you’re not just limited to the museum section of Kathmandu Durbar Square. Altitude Himalaya ensures you experience the full life and spirit of the Basantpur Durbar Kshetra.
Highlights include the Taleju Bhawani Temple, Kumari Ghar (where the living Goddess Kumari resides), Kasthamandap, Kal Bhairav Image, Shiva-Parvati Temple, Gaddi Baithak Palace, and more.
Discover Stories of Patan Durbar Square
While Kathmandu Durbar Square served as the royal palace of the kings of Kathmandu, Patan Durbar Square was the palace of the kings of Patan.
Located in the Lalitpur district, it also features a museum that beautifully reflects the rich history of this ancient city. Beyond the collection of artifacts and paintings from the Malla kings, the Durbar Square is home to 50+ temples and monuments.
Here are the major ones your family will visit during this tour: Golden Temple, Mahabuddha Temple, Krishna Temple, Kumbeshwar Temple, and Bagalamukhi Temple.
Step into the History of Bhaktapur Durbar Square
Like Kathmandu and Patan, Bhaktapur also boasts its own Durbar Square. In fact, it’s the largest among the three, offering a very different glimpse into the traditional Newari lifestyle.
The major attraction in Bhaktapur Durbar Square is the 55-Window Palace, a museum that houses unique sculptures and intricate carvings.
Other notable landmarks include the National Art Museum, Golden Gate, Nyatapol Temple, Taleju Temple, Siddhi Laxmi Temple, Nag Pokhari, and Siddha Pokhari (which you'll pass along the way).
Himalayan Views From Nagarkot
Kathmandu Valley isn’t just the cultural hub of Nepal. A short drive from Bhaktapur takes you to a place of true peace and tranquility.
Nagarkot isn’t only popular among international tourists but also serves as a beloved getaway for the locals of Kathmandu. It’s the closest destination from the capital city to get closer to the majestic Himalayas.
On clear days, you can witness breathtaking views of mountain ranges such as Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Langtang, Jugal, Rolwaling, Mahalangur, Numbur, and even Mount Everest. This is possible from the Geodetic Survey Tower or from several luxury hotels.
You might like reading: Chisapani Nagarkot Trek from Kathmandu
Venture into the Wild: SAURAHA, CHITWAN
Nepal certainly isn’t just about the Kathmandu Valley. If you’ve taken the time to visit our wonderful country, it’s Altitude Himalaya’s mission to ensure you experience Nepal in the best way possible.
As part of this 13-day family package, we take you from the majestic Himalayas all the way down to the lush Terai region of Nepal. And if you’re unaware, the crown jewel of the Terai is Chitwan!
It’s very close to Kathmandu and is filled with incredible places you can explore in a short time. Before your jungle adventures in Chitwan National Park begins, Altitude Himalaya will guide you through the following landmarks:
Birdwatching in Bis Hajari Taal
Bis Hajari Taal translates to ‘twenty thousand lakes,’ named after the oxbow lake system consisting of nearly 20,000 small and large ponds.
This lake is a must-visit spot in Chitwan, especially if you love birdwatching. During the winter season, it becomes home to more than 160 species of migratory birds.
Beyond birds, you can also spot mugger crocodiles and gharials here. And if you’re at the right time in Chitwan National Park, you might even catch glimpses of rhinos and deer!
A Short Tour of Sauraha’s Tharu Village
Quite different from the Kathmandu Valley, Sauraha’s Tharu Village welcomes you into a vibrant community that has long dedicated its life to the forests of Chitwan.
Altitude Himalaya’s family tour package includes a full village tour, which is indeed a unique experience. You get to see beautifully painted mud houses, intricate designs, and sustainable farming practices.
We’ve also included a cultural program at the end of the day to give you a deeper insight into the Tharu lifestyle and traditions.
And if you wish, we can even arrange a special Tharu cuisine dinner instead of the regular Nepali meal, featuring dishes like Ghongi (snail curry), Bagiya (rice dumplings), Chichar, and other Terai specialties.
Educational Visit to Elephant Breeding Center
Amidst the fun and adventure of Chitwan, your visit to the Elephant Breeding Center offers a meaningful insight into the conservation and protection of endangered Asian elephants.
Here, your family will get a close look at the educational initiatives designed to safeguard these magnificent animals. You’ll even have the chance to interact with professional mahouts, learning firsthand about the breeding process, elephant behavior, and habitat conservation efforts.
Visit the Tourism Capital of Nepal: POKHARA
The third major location your family visits during this Nepal tour is the enchanting district of Kaski, home to Nepal’s tourism capital, Pokhara.
This package doesn’t just cover the usual Pokhara sightseeing spots; it also takes you into the natural beauty of Ghandruk, Tanchowk, and Dhampus.
Basically, this third phase of your trip brings you even closer to the majestic mountains. After your three-day hike from Ghandruk to Dhampus, here are the places you’ll explore:
Religious Visit to Pumdikot Shiva Statue
When you’re in Pokhara, your eyes will inevitably fall upon a large statue of Lord Mahadev on one of the surrounding hilltops.
Let us tell you that its construction was only recently completed in 2021, and in such a short time, it has already become a must-visit landmark in Pokhara.
Located in a place called Pumdikot, the statue is at an altitude of 1,500 meters above sea level. Reaching here not only brings you closer to Mahadev but also rewards you with panoramic views of Pokhara city and the serene Phewa Lake.
Embrace Peace at World Peace Pagoda
Just next to Pumdikot lies the hill where the World Peace Pagoda is situated. This spot is very popular among tourists seeking yoga and meditation, thanks to its serene and peaceful environment.
While this Nepal Family Tour doesn’t include yoga and meditation sessions within the package, we can certainly arrange it for you! Just be sure to inform us on the very first day.
Otherwise, our plan for you is to visit the beautiful pagoda, soak in the peaceful surroundings, and enjoy a short hike down to Phewa Lake.
You might like reading: Yoga Trekking in Nepal
Check Out the Mysterious Devi’s Falls
Yet another natural beauty of Pokhara is Devi’s Falls, which was named after a Swiss lady who tragically fell into the high stream here in 1961. This heartbreaking incident sparked curiosity, and even today, many visitors visit to learn more about how it happened.
What makes this small yet one of the best waterfalls truly fascinating is that it plunges underground and vanishes, leaving everyone wondering about its mysterious existence.
Kindly be very careful while wandering near the edges, and make sure to keep your kids safe at all times.
Discover the Sacred Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave
Located directly opposite Devi’s Falls is the Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, which is a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus.
What makes this place particularly special is the naturally formed Shivaling that lies deep underground. The cave is also home to numerous stunning limestone formations.
As you venture deeper, you can catch a glimpse of the beautiful Devi’s Falls and the stream that flows right through the cave.
Adventures That Bring Families Together
Nepal ranks as one of the top destinations for adventurous activities, and during your 13-day family tour, we want you to leave with unforgettable memories.
To ensure that, Altitude Himalaya has carefully curated a special package with adventures that are safe for all age groups and completed within the ideal time frame. But if you’d like, you can also customize it beforehand to suit your preferences.
This package includes a variety of exciting experiences: white-water rafting, a jungle jeep safari, canoe ride, boating, a scenic flight, and even a short trek. It’s everything that captures the essence of Nepal, bringing you closer to both wildlife and mountains.
White-Water Rafting On Trishuli River
A beginner-friendly white-water rafting adventure on the Trishuli River is a must-do for anyone visiting Nepal. The river features Class II to III rapids, offering the perfect balance of fun and challenge for your family.
As you raft through impressive gorges, you’ll have a unique chance to connect with nature in an exciting way. This 2-hour activity is fully guided and accompanied by safety personnel, so you can relax and enjoy the ride.
You can even take refreshing dips in the Trishuli River, which is completely safe as you’ll be equipped with a life jacket. Just be sure to follow the safety guidelines provided by the rafting team.
One important thing to remember about rafting is that it’s a team adventure, making it a fantastic opportunity to strengthen your family’s teamwork skills.
Related Package You Might Like: 9-Day Nepal River Rafting Tour
Explore Chitwan National Park’s Wildlife in Jeep Safari
Chitwan National Park is home to over 50 mammals, 525 bird species, and 55 amphibians and reptiles, making it a wildlife enthusiast’s paradise. To explore the park’s rich wildlife, the Jungle Jeep Safari is the best and safest way to go.
During this 4-hour jungle tour, you’ll have the chance to spot some of the rarest species on the planet, including the one-horned rhino, Royal Bengal tiger, wild elephants, golden monitor lizards, pythons, giant hornbills, black storks, white storks, four-horned antelopes, and many more!
The jeeps used in the safari are low-emission, ensuring minimal noise disturbance. And since Altitude Himalaya has arranged the safari for the morning, your chances of spotting wildlife are significantly higher.
The tour is guided by a professional, giving you the opportunity to ask as many questions as you like. You can even request a stop at the Crocodile Breeding Center, take a walk through the jungle, or go for an elephant walk.
Go For Canoe Ride in Rapti River
For an even more thrilling adventure than the Jeep Safari, try canoe boating on the Rapti River. While the Jeep Safari relies on a bit of luck, this activity guarantees close encounters with the gharial and marsh mugger crocodiles.
These fascinating creatures will be right next to you, yet they won’t pose a threat. One important thing to remember during this 1-hour ride is to stay quiet and avoid disturbing or teasing the crocodiles and alligators in any way.
A Short Trek From Ghandruk to Dhampus
Visiting Nepal and not seeing its majestic mountains would be a missed opportunity.
Many families only take the time to visit Kathmandu or a few places in Pokhara before leaving. Altitude Himalaya doesn’t want you to make that mistake!
Since you're just a few hours' drive away from the closest views of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna, we want to make sure you don’t miss this unforgettable experience.
This short hiking adventure to the Himalayas is perfect for all age groups. You don’t need to walk long distances, and the well-maintained trails provide a wonderful introduction to trekking in Nepal.
Here are the main places you'll visit on this short trek:
- Ghandruk (2,012 m): A Gurung village in the Annapurna region, Ghandruk offers breathtaking views of Annapurna South, Annapurna III, Gangapurna, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre.
- Tanchowk (1,911 m): A peaceful settlement within Lumle, famous for its serene environment surrounded by dense forest, along with warm and hospitable villagers.
- Dhampus (1,694 m): Another Gurung village, where you can immerse yourself in the local community's way of life, and enjoy magnificent views of Machhapuchhre, as well as the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
- Other villages along the trail: Tomjung, Ghaisari, Majhgaun, Pothana, and the optional Australian Base Camp.
Take a Refreshing Boating Adventure in Phewa Lake
Although not the most adventurous activity on this tour package, boating on Phewa Lake is still one of the most refreshing experiences.
While it can be a full-day activity, Altitude Himalaya has arranged a shorter version after your hike downhill from the World Peace Pagoda.
You’ll be accompanied by your tour guide and a professional boatsman. If you'd like to add a visit to Tal Barahi Temple during the adventure, feel free to ask, and they’ll make the stop.
If you’re interested in rowing the boat yourself or trying out kayaking in one of the most famous lakes in Nepal, Altitude Himalaya can help you arrange that as well.
Scenic Flight From Pokhara to Kathmandu
After a tiring week in Pokhara, the thought of driving the same route back to the capital city isn’t the most appealing, It could just add to your already-strained body.
So why not take a scenic flight instead? It's a far more enjoyable and comfortable option. When the weather is clear, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking aerial view of the Himalayas, from Annapurna all the way to Everest.
10Km