In Nepal, Yoga is not just a physical activity. It is rooted deep in ancient Vedic traditions, practiced with spiritual mindfulness and religious devotion.
No matter where you go in Nepal, people embrace yoga and meditation as a path toward well-being. In fact, yoga in the Himalayas has gained quite a reputation here!
This Nepal Yoga Retreat Tour offers you an immersive 10-day experience into a very different form of yoga. One that you might have never experienced before. You’ll be guided by experienced instructors who’ll help you reconnect with yourself on a deeper level.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned practitioner, this journey balances daily yoga and meditation with cultural and historical sightseeing, along with light hiking that helps you discover Nepal a little more.
You’ll begin in Kathmandu Valley, exploring the rich UNESCO World Heritage Sites and understanding their deep significance in Nepali culture. From here, you’ll continue to Namobuddha, move onwards to Dhulikhel, and even enjoy an overnight stay in Nagarkot. Throughout the tour of Kathmandu’s outskirts, you’ll visit ancient monasteries, witness stunning sunrise views, and engage in peaceful yoga sessions.
Then, a short flight takes you to Pokhara, where your morning yoga sessions are surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. Not to forget, the city also offers kayaking on Phewa Lake and a refreshing day hike to Dhampus via Australian Camp.
This is truly your chance to experience yoga in Nepal the way it was always meant to be. And to learn more about this beautiful retreat package, make sure to read until the end. If you have any confusion, feel free to send us a message on the provided WhatsApp number.
Experience Authentic Nepali ‘Yog’
The major highlight of this Nepal Yoga Retreat Tour is that each of your day begins with rejuvenating yoga sessions. Mostly, it’s in the mornings, but sometimes we also end evenings with meditative practices.
You’ll be guided by the same instructor throughout the trip (in some cases, you’ll get a different guide in Pokhara). And this helps develop a deeper understanding of Nepali yoga while traveling through serene locations in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and their outskirts.
Types of Yoga You Will Be Introduced to
Note that the yoga you’ll learn in Nepal is much different than the modern style that most of you are familiar with. Here, it’s called ‘Yog’ and during your tour, the Yoga instructor shall introduce you to the following types of physical, mental, and spiritual practices:
- Hatha Yoga: Focused on balance between body and mind.
- Ashtanga Yoga: A physically intense style for strength, flexibility, and stamina.
- Vinyasa Yoga: Connects breath to movement in a rhythmic pattern.
- Yin Yoga: A slow-paced style targeting deep connective tissues and joints.
- Restorative Yoga: Passive poses for total relaxation and healing.
- Kriya Yoga: Cleansing and energy awakening techniques that mostly involve breath and mantra.
- Pranayama: Breath-control practices to improve inner energy and calm your mind.
- Meditation: Various techniques to develop stillness, focus, and inner awareness.
- Yoga Nidra: A type of sleep that promotes deep rest and mental clarity.
- Mantra Chanting: Spiritual practice of repeating sacred sounds to raise consciousness.
Things You Should Carry
For a fulfilling yoga retreat experience, it’s important to pack personal essentials that support both comfort and hygiene. While many of these items are available in Kathmandu and Pokhara, we recommend bringing your own for convenience and familiarity. Even renting is possible, but purchasing new items will eventually saves some bucks, honestly.
Here’s your packing list for this 10-day Nepal Yoga Retreat Tour:
- Yoga Mat
- Comfortable and breathable Yoga Clothes:
- For women: yoga tops, stretchable leggings, or salwar-style yoga wear.
- For men: yoga t-shirts and loose, stretchy pants (yoga trousers/dhotis).
- Multiple Undergarments
- Quick-dry towels
- Water Bottle
- Small Backpack or Day Bag.
- Personal Toiletries: Toothbrush, soap, shampoo, deodorant, etc.
- Sunscreen and Sunglasses
- Notebook and Pen (optional, if you love journaling)
- Slippers or Easy Footwear
- Personal medicines and First Aid
Explore Kathmandu Valley and Its Outskirts
Your Nepal Yoga Retreat Tour begins in the Kathmandu Valley. Here, you’ll immerse yourself in the ancient heritage, spiritual landmarks, and even serene hill towns.
From sacred temples and bustling durbar squares to peaceful monasteries and quiet yoga experiences, this part of the tour package is perfect for you to learn about Nepal’s culture and customs.
Here’s how you’ll explore the valley and its beautiful outskirts:
Heritage Sites in Kathmandu
Kathmandu Valley is home to seven UNESCO World Heritage monument zones, and this journey begins by exploring four of the most iconic ones. Our team will guide you through these sacred and historical landmarks:
- Kathmandu Durbar Square: Once served as the royal palace of Malla and Shah kings, this historical square is now a place to stop by to witness the traditional Newari architecture. Even the surroundings are filled with 50+ temples and courtyards, and the main highlight is, of course, the living goddess Kumari's residence (known as Kumari Ghar).
- Swayambhunath Stupa aka Monkey Temple: Located on one of the western hills of the city, this ancient stupa offers panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley. Both of the Hindu and Buddhist communities come here to take blessings.
- Pashupatinath Temple: One of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It’s a sacred pilgrimage site where you can witness rituals and cremation ceremonies just by the Bagmati River.
- Boudhanath Stupa: One of the largest stupas in the world, Boudhanath is the heart of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. You can spin prayer wheels and walk the kora for a mindful reflection.
A Short Visit to Bhaktapur
To explore two more UNESCO heritage sites, we’ll take you to the historic district of Bhaktapur, once known as Bhadgaon. This journey also includes a peaceful overnight stay on a peaceful hilltop on the first day and again in Bhaktapur on the second day, once you return from Kavre. Allow us to explain:
- Bhaktapur Durbar Square: It’s a living museum of medieval art and architecture, and even home to temples, palaces, and courtyards that are rich with Newari culture and customs. Highlights here include the 55-Window Palace, Nyatapola Temple, Pottery Square, Dattatraya Square, etc.
- Changu Narayan Temple: Recognized as the oldest temple in Nepal, Changu Narayan is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It houses intricate stone, wood, and metal carvings.
- Nagarkot: This spot offers the best sunrise views in Kathmandu Valley over the Himalayas. Nagarkot is a peaceful hill station perfect for rest and reflection. On clear days, you can spot panoramic views of peaks including Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and even Everest in the far distance.
Spiritual Retreats and Scenic Escapes in Kavre
Kavre is one of the nearest and most peaceful districts just outside the Kathmandu Valley. It’s perfect for short getaways and is also a favorite among the locals of the capital city.
As part of your Nepal Yoga Retreat Tour, you’ll not only practice yoga in serene surroundings here but also explore the region’s spiritual and cultural sites:
- Namo Buddha Monastery (Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery): Another important Buddhist pilgrimage site after Boudha and Swayambhu in Nepal. You’ll be here to enjoy a peaceful space for yoga and meditation, alongside breathtaking mountain views.
- Dhulikhel Overnight Stay: This is a hill town known for its serene environment, traditional Newari culture, and stunning Himalayan views! The fresh mountain air is perfect for practicing morning yoga.
- Hike to the Ancient Town of Panauti: This package also includes a short hike to the beautifully preserved town of Panauti. You’ll get to witness the richness of Newari architecture and spiritual landmarks here.
Sightseeing in Pokhara and the Himalayan Foothills
The city of Pokhara is known as the gateway to the western Himalayas. Here, you won’t just explore natural beauty but also get the option to try adventure activities.
On this Nepal Yoga Retreat Tour, Pokhara won’t simply be just about sightseeing. It's also going to be about fully immersing yourself in the yoga, meditation, and hiking through the Himalayan foothills.
With Altitude Himalaya’s support, you’ll explore sacred sites and even paddle across quiet waters of Phewa Lake. Pokhara offers a perfect mix of everything, and here’s what you should expect:
Natural Attractions of Pokhara City
As soon as you land in Pokhara, you’ll be greeted by the majestic views of the Machhapuchhre and Annapurna range. Your stay in the peaceful village of Pumdi Bhumdi will be truly mesmerizing, with evening yoga sessions being the major highlight. You’ll love it so much that we’ll only do the sightseeing the next day. Here’s what you’ll explore:
- Pumdikot Shiva Statue: This is a newly built Shiva statue right above the city in Oumdi Bhumdi itself (even visible from Lakeside). It offers panoramic views of Pokhara city and the Himalayas too.
- World Peace Pagoda: This white stupa is another iconic location right below the Shiva Statue. You’ll have to walk over 400 steps to reach here, which is quite rewarding once you start enjoying the sweeping views of the lake and mountains.
- Devi’s Fall: A waterfall that goes underground inside the mysterious tunnel. It’s a natural wonder in the center of Pokhara and is best to visit in the monsoon season.
- Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave: Right across from Devi’s Fall is a sacred cave with a shrine of Lord Shiva.
- Phewa Lake and Lakeside: This is a lake that, once visited, you’d want to visit more, and you just don’t want to leave the vibe of Lakeside once you fully immerse yourself there. It’s best that you go for evening strolls after getting involved in some water activities (like kayaking or boating).
- Sarangkot: On your final day in Pokhara, we’ll take you on an early morning drive to Sarangkot Viewpoint to witness the sunrise over the Himalayas. This is going to be an unforgettable moment that completes your yoga journey before returning to Kathmandu.
Hike to Dhampus via Australian Camp
A visit to Nepal feels incomplete without a trek. And given the focus on yoga, it’s impossible to include an entire trek. Nevertheless, we’ve included a short day hike towards Dhampus Village, which is going to be tiring yet fulfilling.
Your journey begins with a morning drive to Kande (1,770m), which serves as the starting point for short treks in the Annapurna region. From Kande, you’ll hike uphill through lush forests and stone steps to reach Australian Camp (2,100m).
Take a brief pause here to take in the panoramic views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre. Then, you’ll continue your hike towards Dhampus (1,750m), a beautiful Gurung village. Here, you’ll interact with locals, explore traditional lifestyles, and even try on the traditional Gurung dress for a fun cultural immersion.
Your hike then descends to Phedi (1,130m), where our team will pick you up and bring you back to Pokhara Lakeside. The evening will be yours to relax and celebrate the completion of this short hike.
Kayaking and Other Optional Adventures
Coming to Pokhara and skipping an adventure activity would be a missed opportunity. That’s why we’ve included kayaking on the serene waters of Phewa Lake, with the option to try stand-up paddleboarding. And if you're not into adrenaline sports, your yoga group can always opt for a peaceful boating session instead.
And if you’re still craving more thrill, you’ll have the chance to add some of Pokhara’s most adrenaline-pumping adventures, such as paragliding, zip-lining, bungee jumping, ultra-light flight, hot air ballooning, and more! These will be add-ons with an additional fee required.
10 KM