Nepal Family Essentials

Nepal Family Essentials

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11 Days From

$1575

Nepal Family Essentials

11 Days Starting and ending in Kathmandu, Nepal

Visiting: Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan National Park, Bandipur, Bhaktapur

Tour operator:

Encounters Travel

Tour code:

667

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 16

Physical rating:

Moderate

Age range:

5-95

Tour operated in:

English
From: $1575

NB: Prices correct on 02-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Get ready for an incredible journey filled with adventure, culture, and natural wonders! This carefully crafted itinerary is perfect for families, offering a mix of exciting activities and relaxing moments that everyone will enjoy.

Your adventure begins in Kathmandu, Nepal's bustling capital. Take a thrilling rickshaw ride through the city's backstreets, marvel at the ancient architecture of Durbar Square, and encounter the Living Goddess Kumari. Ascend to Swayambunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, for stunning views of the city and a playful encounter with its furry residents.

Next, fly to the picturesque city of Pokhara, nestled amidst the Himalayas. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on Lake Phewa, surrounded by breathtaking mountain vistas. Learn the art of making delicious momos, a traditional Nepali dumpling, and savor the fruits of your labour. Then, hop on a bike for a scenic ride to Devi Falls and the mysterious Shiva Cave.

Prepare for an adrenaline-pumping adventure with a family-friendly white-water rafting trip on the Lower Seti River. Camp overnight by the riverside, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Journey to Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and embark on thrilling safaris in search of rhinos, tigers, and other fascinating wildlife. Immerse yourselves in the local Tharu culture with a visit to a traditional village.

Travel to the charming hilltop town of Bandipur, where time seems to stand still. Explore its well-preserved architecture and enjoy breathtaking mountain views. Return to Kathmandu for a final taste of the city's vibrant energy.

Visit the ancient city of Bhaktapur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning temples and traditional crafts. Participate in a pottery class and create your own unique souvenir. Conclude your journey with visits to the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath and the iconic Buddhist stupa of Boudhanath.

This tour is packed with fun and adventure for the whole family. You'll experience the best of Nepal's culture, nature, and wildlife, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Note: For those passengers who prefer not to partake in the white-water rafting, you may stay behind in Pokhara for one additional night and rejoin the group the following day. We also offer a longer version of this tour which includes a 4-day trek in the Annapurna Range, ideal for those looking for even more adventure, this is our Nepal Family Adventure Tour.

Highlights

  • Kathmandu sightseeing, Bandipur hill village & school visit, Child friendly white-water rafting, safari activities in Chitwan National Park

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Day 1: Arrive In Kathmandu: Transfer To Hotel

Location: Kathmandu

Namaste! After arriving into Kathmandu today, our reps meet you at the airport and then transfer you to your hotel for the start of your tour. In the evening, your rep will give you a brief introduction to the local area of Thamel.

Day 2 : Day 2: Thamel Rickshaw Ride And Durbar Square. See The Living Goddess & Visit Swayambunath Stupa

Location: Kathmandu

Our Nepal tour starts with an exciting Rickshaw ride through the backstreets of Thamel, to Durbar Square. We'll pass through small back streets full of numerous tiny shops, workshops, temples, and stupas to Durbar Square with its array of wooden and stone carved temples and palaces, where we'll have plenty of time to walk around and explore. We'll make time whilst in Durbar Square to visit the Living Goddess, Kumari. In Nepal a young pre-pubescent girl is chosen from the Newar community to embody the goddess Taleju, a manifestation of the Hindu goddess Durga. She is believed to be the living incarnation of the divine feminine and is worshipped by both Hindus and Buddhists.

Day 3 : Day 3: Fly To Pokhara. Enjoy A Boat Ride On Lake Phewa And Learn How To Make Momos

Location: Pokhara

Start your day with an early morning flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, taking in breathtaking aerial views of the majestic Himalayan range as you soar through the skies. Upon arrival in Pokhara, a picturesque city nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, head straight to the serene Lake Phewa. Here, embark on a leisurely boat trip, allowing the tranquil waters and the stunning backdrop of the Annapurna mountains to captivate your senses.

Day 4 : Day 4: Morning Cycling Trip To Devi Falls & Shiva Cave

Location: Pokhara

Today, we're going on a fun cycling trip to Devi Falls and Shiva Cave. We'll cycle through some beautiful scenery and see these two amazing natural spots.

Day 5 : Day 5: Family Friendly White-Water Rafting On The Lower Seti And Camping By The Riverside

Location: Pokhara

Embark on a scenic drive from the bustling city of Pokhara towards the tranquil banks of the Lower Seti River. The journey itself offers glimpses of the picturesque Nepali countryside, setting the tone for the adventure that awaits. Upon arrival at the river's edge, you'll be greeted by the experienced rafting team who will provide a comprehensive safety briefing and equip you with all the necessary gear. The day will unfold with thrilling white water rafting, navigating gentle rapids and calm stretches alike, perfect for families.

Day 6 : Day 6: Drive To Chitwan National Park: Begin Safari Activities And Explore The Local Tharu Village

Location: Chitwan National Park

After breakfast at our riverbank setting, we'll pack up our camp and bid farewell to the tranquil Lower Seti River. Our journey continues onward to the renowned Chitwan National Park, nestled in the lowland Terai region of Nepal. This dramatic shift in landscape will transport us from the refreshing river valleys to the heart of a lush subtropical jungle teeming with diverse wildlife.

Day 7 : Day 7: Chitwan National Park Safari Activities

Location: Chitwan National Park

We spend the whole day today exploring Chitwan National Park in search of the endangered Asian one-horned rhino, which Chitwan is famous for protecting. If you're very lucky you may also see a leopard, wild elephant or sloth bear, or even an elusive Bengal tiger, while the rhino, deer, monkeys, sloth bears, wild boar and numerous different birdlife are common sightings. Activities included are a jungle walk, river canoe trip and jeep safari.

Day 8 : Day 8: Chitwan To The Hilltop Village Of Bandipur. Bandipur Walking Tour

Location: Bandipur

Early this morning you can take a walk outside the park dedicated mainly to bird watching. After breakfast we then leave Chitwan and the Terai and drive to the ancient hilltop Newari trading village of Bandipur. The centre of Bandipur has been restored, and is vehicle free, with some lovely old buildings. We'll have a short guided walking tour around the centre of Bandipur before you have free time this afternoon to relax, or take a walk or hike through the surrounding fields, villages and hills. Walks include a 2-hour downhill hike through fields and forest to Siddha Cave, one of the largest in Asia and full of impressive rock formations (bring a torch). You can hike back uphill to Bandipur from here or walk down to the highway for our vehicle to pick you up. A shorter walk from the town centre can take you uphill for around 30min to the Thani Mai Temple, which is well worth it for its views at sunset if the weather is clear. In fact the whole of Bandipur affords good mountain views.

Day 9 : Day 9: Return To Kathmandu: Free Afternoon

Location: Kathmandu

Today, we bid farewell to the charming hilltop town of Bandipur and embark on a scenic drive back to the vibrant capital city of Kathmandu. As we wind our way through the picturesque countryside, relish the final glimpses of terraced fields, quaint villages, and the majestic Himalayan peaks that have graced our journey.

Day 10 : Day 10: Bhaktapur Ancient Centre With Pottery Class: Pasupatinath & Boudhanath

Location: Bhaktapur

This morning we'll visit one of the ancient cities in the Kathmandu valley, Bhaktapur. The centre of Bhaktapur has been designated a World Heritage Site, and hosts the best preserved ancient buildings and temples in the Kathmandu valley, with some great examples of traditional wooden architecture to be seen. Our tour here will really give you a taste for how life has been led in the valley for centuries, and you'll see several traditional crafts still taking place, including a whole square dedicated to pottery - You'll even have the chance to partake in an included pottery class.

Day 11 : Day 11: Kathmandu: Tour Ends: Airport Transfer

Location: Kathmandu

Your time is free today until we transfer you to the airport in time for your flight home.

What's Included

What's Not Included

Mode of Transport

Travel in a private car, minivan, or minibus depending on group size, with all transfers included, including a 24-hour airport arrival and departure transfer service and an internal flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara.

Accommodation

Stay in comfortable hotels in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan, with a unique camping experience by the riverside during the white-water rafting adventure.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of activities are included in the Chitwan National Park visit?

    During the visit to Chitwan National Park, you will participate in a jungle walk, a river canoe trip, and a jeep safari. These activities offer opportunities to see a variety of wildlife, including the endangered Asian one-horned rhino, deer, monkeys, sloth bears, wild boar, and numerous bird species. If you're very lucky, you might also spot a leopard, wild elephant, or even a Bengal tiger.

  • What can I expect during the white-water rafting experience on the Lower Seti River?

    The white-water rafting experience on the Lower Seti River includes a scenic drive from Pokhara to the river, followed by a comprehensive safety briefing and equipment provision by the experienced rafting team. The rafting itself involves navigating gentle rapids and calm stretches, making it suitable for families. After rafting, you will set up camp along the river banks, with all camping equipment provided, and enjoy a night under the stars with a campfire.

  • What cultural experiences are included in the tour?

    The tour includes several cultural experiences such as a visit to the Living Goddess Kumari in Kathmandu, a momo making class in Pokhara, a visit to a Tharu village in Chitwan, and a pottery class in Bhaktapur. Additionally, you will explore the ancient city of Bhaktapur, visit the Pasupatinath temple and Boudhanath stupa in Kathmandu, and take a walking tour around the hilltop village of Bandipur.

  • What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour provides accommodation in hotels in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan, as well as a rafting camp along the Lower Seti River. All accommodations are included as stated in the itinerary.

  • Are there any special activities for children on this tour?

    Yes, the tour includes several child-friendly activities such as a rickshaw ride in Kathmandu, a momo making class in Pokhara, and family-friendly white-water rafting on the Lower Seti River. Additionally, the safari activities in Chitwan National Park and the visit to the hilltop village of Bandipur are suitable for children.

  • What meals are included in the tour?

    Meals included in the tour are as indicated in the itinerary. Generally, breakfast is provided daily, with additional meals such as lunch and dinner included on specific days, particularly during the rafting and Chitwan National Park segments of the tour.

  • What kind of transportation is used during the tour?

    Transportation during the tour includes private cars, minivans, or minibuses, depending on the group size. The tour also includes an internal flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara and all necessary transfers, including a 24-hour airport arrival and departure transfer service.

  • Is travel insurance compulsory?

    Yes! Travel insurance is compulsory on all of our tours and needs to cover personal accident & liability, medical expenses and repatriation, travel delay & abandonment. We also strongly recommend that you take out cover against cancellation and lost/stolen baggage. Personal medical insurance does not normally provide sufficient cover and is generally not suitable for travel on our tours. You will not be able to join your tour if you have not provided us with details of your insurance or if you arrive without cover in place (no refunds will be due in this event).

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    You are always able to change your travel date. However, some charges may apply depending on how long before your departure you make the change. Our flexible booking conditions and reduced charges will apply if you are changing date because of a Covid-19 reason or because your government is advising against travel to your destination. Please check our detailed booking conditions for full details.

  • When is my balance payment due?

    60 days prior to departure

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    On most of our group tours, solo travellers may choose to form a temporary 'tour bubble' and share a room with another traveller of the same sex in the group. If a room share is not available then a single room supplement may be payable, with the costs for these kept as low as possible. We have also removed compulsory single supplements from many of our tours, and are reducing the cost by 50% on s

  • Can I transfer my booking to someone else?

    Customers may transfer their booking or any Credit on File to another person who satisfies all the relevant conditions to the tour, provided that we are notified not less than 7 days before departure, and the transferee agrees to these booking conditions and all other terms of the contract between us. The Client and new booker are jointly and severally responsible for any outstanding payments and a transfer administration fee of GBP50 / USD75 / CAD100 / AUD100 / NZD100 / EUR75 / ZAR1000 / INR5000 or GBP100 / USD150 / CAD200 / AUD200 / NZD200 / EUR150 / ZAR2000 / INR10,000 if the transfer is made less than 60 days before departure. Important Note: Certain arrangements may not be amended or transferred after they have been confirmed (for example flight tickets, Gorilla Permits) and any alteration could incur a cancellation and rebooking charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements.

Reviews of this operator

Jasmine Montaque (Google Reviewer)  

We had a Great 9...

30-Aug-2023

We had a Great 9 day trip to Egypt ! Everyone we “encountered” were excellent! We absolutely loved our guide. We are Looking 👀 to book another trip with Encounters Travel!

sandra mooney (Google Reviewer)  

From the time we landed...

24-Aug-2024

From the time we landed in Cairo we were treated as VIP’s. Nadine our Tour leader kept on checking on us throughout the journey. We were fortunate to have Fayed and Hossam as the tour guides, they took their time to explain the sites throughout each excursion. Everyone made us feel safe and well looked after.

Miriam Huguet (Google Reviewer)  

I did the Discover Egypt...

06-Jan-2022

I did the Discover Egypt and I definetely recommend it. They take care of every detail (they manage to do our PCR with the stamp that we needed). They book quite comfortable hotels and the guide and the local guides are extremely good and passionate about their work. I would repeat it!! :)

Aries FFPro (Google Reviewer)  

Wish I could rate Encounters...

04-Dec-2021

Wish I could rate Encounters higher! From the onset, Anthony (Ant) was professional and extremely knowledgeable, and far more helpful than I had hoped. He always had time to respond to my inquiries and never showed any sign of frustration...no matter how many times I asked the same question. Meeting Saul at the Cairo airport shows just how valuable the RIGHT travel rep is: he had us go from the gate to getting our visas to picking up our luggage and out to the waiting van in 15 minutes! UNBELIEVABLE! Saul also checked in with us almost daily to make sure everything was to our satisfaction. Our guides Big Mu and Mahmoud were fantastic in their knowledge of the sites, the history of the area and where to get the best bargains. Encounters Travel made this trip of a lifetime 100x better than anything I had hoped for. I cannot recommend Encounters strongly enough...if you have Egypt on your bucket list, like we did, book safely and securely with Encounters!

Renee Hage (Google Reviewer)  

I so appreciated the care...

18-May-2024

I so appreciated the care taken by all the staff ensuring that we were well taken care of and had no problems. They were very responsive to all of our questions. The tour itself was incredible!

Erin Scott (Google Reviewer)  

Just finished a dreamy 9...

05-Dec-2019

Just finished a dreamy 9 day Discover Egypt Tour with our guide, Mohamed El-Maghrabi. I can’t say enough about this tour and Mohamed. Everything exceeded my expectations. Somehow each new day was better than the last. The tour was perfectly laid out and organized, and everything went super smoothly. Mohamed was attentive and thoughtful to each of our individual needs. From early check-ins, delicious pre-arranged restaurant excursions, and assisting with trip add-ons, Mohamed was a superstar. Not to mention his knowledge and passion for egyptology. The additional encounters support staff at each location was an added bonus that enhanced an already smooth operation. The trip went way too fast! I didn’t want it to end. I recommend this trip to anyone who wants to see as much of egypt as possible in a short amount of time! I’ll never forget this whirlwind adventure!

Claire Carter (Google Reviewer)  

I was unsure what to...

25-Oct-2023

I was unsure what to expect but it was far better than I thought. Collected from the airport and thoroughly looked after until I was returned to the airport 10 days later. The times, travelling and food was as advertised. The guide and sights were beyond my expectations. Fantastic tour.

Mary Radoccia (Google Reviewer)  

Northern India solo trip. ...

09-May-2024

Northern India solo trip. Some of the hotels were past their prime as 4 star establishments. Paid a substantial amount for side trip to varanasi which was supposed to be 3 days, 2 nights. It turned out to be really 1 day, 2 nights. Plane left after 8pm and we didn't arrive at hotel until after 11pm. Had to leave at 5.30am the following day and we didn't get back to hotel until after 10pm. The following day we had to leave hotel at 8am for flight back to dehli. We could have left for varanasi in the afternoon as originally implied and left on a later flight back to dehli. Everyone not staying extra days then had to spend 6 to 10 hours waiting for their flight home.The one day in varanasi was great but I wouldn't have gone if I knew the time frame. Not worth money either. Also bus used on trip was old, bad suspension and rattled Window style was old so not very good for taking photos. My view was shared by most of the other travellers. I think the standard of travel via Encounter has dropped over the past years based on comments from some of the others.

Melissa Goodwin (Google Reviewer)  

BUYER BEWARE Before you book anything...

17-Jun-2024

BUYER BEWARE Before you book anything with Encounters Travel, be SURE to read all of the fine print. This is especially important regarding their cancellation policy and the deposit you will forfeit. I didn't find that we'd completely lost our deposit until I contact the company to process a cancellation. I thought I could cancel for a full refund up until a certain point, but apparently I was mistaken. I booked a 3-night late-September boat trip at the end of May, and mid-June we realized we couldn't take it. It's been less than 3 weeks since I booked the trip and it's over 3 MONTHS until the trip will take place, so you know they will have no issue filling our two spots. Even so, we are out $250 each for our trip. They are within their rights to not refund the deposit - I should have waded through the fine print to find this buried detail. But they also have the choice to refund the deposit given the circumstances. Don't make the same mistake I did. READ EVERYTHING BEFORE YOU BOOK. Better yet, consider not booking with Encounters Travel.

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Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Encounters Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform encounters travel, 60 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Encounters Travel requires a minimum deposit of 150 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of encounters travel charges.

    Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 35% of booking price.

    At 41 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.

    At 27 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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