Varanasi to Kathmandu: Temples, Trails & Himalayan Hikes - 9 Days

Arrive to your starting hotel by 2:00 pm. Varanasi is the quintessential Indian holy city where millions of Hindus travel for pilgrimage, to worship, to mourn, or to die. Take an orientation walk along the ghats and visit the old city. Embark on a Ganges boat trip at sunset to witness a candlelit flower ceremony.

Pre-book the Varanasi Heritage Walk and enjoy a guided tour that focuses more on the local life in Varanasi and its philosophical and cultural values. Witness pilgrims singing and gain a deeper understanding of the importance of Varanasi in Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism.

Pre-book the Guided Visit of Sarnath and learn about the life of the Buddha. Discover the archeological ruins of the monastery. Explore the museum at Sarnath and the sacred Maha Bodhi Tree. Visit temples constructed by the buddhist people of Sri Lanka, Thailand and Japan and stop to admire the Buddha statue during the three hours of guided exploration.

Today is a long travel day, so get comfortable, sit back and relax, and enjoy the changing landscape. Get ready to learn about the history and culture of Nepal.

Travel through a belt of marshy grasslands, savannas, and forests at the base of the Himalayas. The region is home to rhinos, elephants, Bengal tigers, bears, and leopards. Enjoy an overnight homestay with the indigenous Tharu community and discover their culture through dance and song. Opt to go on a cycling excursion through the area.

Explore the diverse ecosystems of the UNESCO Chitwan National Park on a 4x4 safari before a walk through the village and rice paddies. Settle in for another night of dance, songs, and Nepalese food with your Tharu community hosts.

Travel toward the beautiful scenery of the Annapurna Range to Pokhara. On arrival, take in the pristine lakes and stunning panoramic views of Himalayan peaks. Opt to relax in a café, hire a boat and float around the lake, or shop for Nepali and Tibetan souvenirs in the endless stalls and shops.

The walk back from Sarangkot through farms and forest is wonderful and takes between 2-2.5 hours.

Swayambhunath is the most ancient and enigmatic of all the holy shrines in Kathmandu valley. Its lofty white dome and glittering golden spire are visible for many miles. To reach Swayambhunath climb 365 steps that lead up the hill. The area surrounding the stupa is filled with temples, painted images of deities, and numerous other religious objects.

Depart at any time.