Spiritual Journey in Nepal: Buddhist Temples & Yoga in the Himalayas

Namaste, welcome to Nepal!
Upon arrival at Kathmandu Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by one of our team members. You will easily recognize him by the sign with our logo and the matching logo lanyard around his neck. After a warm welcome, he will take you in a private vehicle to your accommodation in the quiet Boudhanath neighborhood, where he will also assist you with check-in.

Travel time: approx. 20 minutes (depending on traffic)

You will spend the first few days in a small-scale hotel close to the famous Boudhanath stupa, one of the spiritual highlights of the Kathmandu Valley. This is a place where the rhythm of Buddhism is palpable: pilgrims walk their rounds in silence, prayer flags flutter in the wind, and mantra chants resound from nearby monasteries.

Depending on your arrival time, you can already take your time today to get acquainted with the atmosphere of Boudhanath. You can walk around the impressive white stupa, visit a monastery, or simply take a seat on a bench and enjoy the view and the serene atmosphere.

Today, above all, take the time to settle in, acclimatize, and quietly let the first impressions of Nepal sink in.

Tips for a relaxed evening meal:
In Boudhanath, there are numerous cozy restaurants, often with a view of the stupa. The ROKPA restaurant is highly recommended, where the proceeds go to local social projects. For a spectacular view at sunset, head to the rooftop terrace of the Akong Rinpoche Memorial Centre. The Utpala Café and the Khawa Khorpo Noodle Factory are also popular spots for a light Tibetan meal.

Today, you will immerse yourself in the rich spiritual and cultural history of the Kathmandu Valley. Together with an English-speaking guide, you will visit three special places that each, in their own way, touch the heart of Nepalese spirituality.

Pashupatinath – the heart of Hinduism
In the morning, you will visit the sacred Hindu complex of Pashupatinath, situated on the holy Bagmati River. Although non-Hindus are not permitted to enter the temple itself, you can witness centuries-old rituals from the opposite side of the river. Here, you will see open-air cremations, hear prayers, and perhaps encounter a Saddhu: an ash-stained holy man who has dedicated his life to Shiva. This is an intense yet impressive place where life and death coexist.

Swayambunath – the ‘Monkey Temple’
Next, you head to the iconic Swayambunath stupa, situated on a green hill on the west side of the city. Via approximately 300 steps, under the watchful eyes of curious monkeys, you climb up to a mystical Buddhist temple complex. Once at the top, you are rewarded with a beautiful view over the valley and can stroll peacefully past prayer flags, ancient statues, and prayer wheels. The atmosphere is serene, almost timeless. A place that leaves you speechless.

Patan – City of Metal and Meditation
In the afternoon, you will visit Patan, the former kingdom of Lalitpur. The city exudes craftsmanship and spirituality. On the central Durbar Square, you can admire magnificent pagodas, temples, and palaces in the traditional Newari style. The Krishna Mandir, unique because it is built entirely of stone, is a true jewel. In the side streets, you will see goldsmiths and sculptors at work, often in silence, like a form of meditation in motion. Patan has a large Buddhist community of Newars and, despite its cultural richness, feels very subdued and peaceful.

Today, you will not only get a glimpse into the religious life of Nepal, but you will also experience how spirituality is interwoven with daily life here.

Today you leave bustling Kathmandu and travel by private vehicle to Pharping, a small, spiritual village about an hour’s drive south of the city. As soon as you leave the city behind and drive into the green hills of the Kathmandu Valley, you feel the pace of life slow down.

Pharping – Place of Enlightenment
Pharping is a special place revered by both Buddhists and Hindus. According to tradition, Guru Rinpoche – also known as Padmasambhava – attained enlightenment here, even before he brought Buddhism to Tibet. His meditation cave, the Asura Cave, remains an important pilgrimage site to this day. When you enter the cave, surrounded by prayer flags and the scent of incense, you sense the deep devotion that this place has radiated for centuries.

You hear the soft chanting of monks from nearby monasteries and see prayer wheels slowly turning in the hands of visitors. The serene energy of Pharping invites stillness and reflection – an ideal place to experience your own spiritual journey from within.

Sheshnarayan – Hindu devotion
In addition to its Buddhist significance, Pharping also has an important Hindu site: the Sheshnarayan Temple. This peaceful, moss-covered temple is one of the four sacred Narayan temples in the valley. For many Hindus, this is a place of purification and prayer. The interplay of both religions gives Pharping a unique atmosphere of tolerance and connectedness.

Peace and nature in Dollu Valley.
In the afternoon, you might take a walk through Dollu Valley, which borders Pharping. Here you will see traditional farms, terraces full of crops, and women in colorful clothing working their fields. The surrounding forests and hills make this place a green, peaceful oasis far from city life.

This day is one of deepening and connection – with the country, the people, and with yourself.

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After breakfast, you leave the hills of Pharping behind and embark on a beautiful drive towards western Nepal. The road winds past rice fields, rivers, and small villages—a living backdrop of rural Nepal. Along the way, you see daily life pass by: shepherds with their goats, women selling vegetables by the roadside, and children waving cheerfully at you.

After about a five-hour drive, you reach Bandipur, an enchanting Newari town on a mountain ridge overlooking the Himalayas. It seems as if time has stood still here. The cobblestone streets, traditional wooden facades, and flower-filled balconies give Bandipur an authentic, almost meditative atmosphere.

A walk through history.
Bandipur is called a ‘living museum’ for good reason. You stroll through narrow streets where no traffic is allowed, creating a quiet and relaxed atmosphere. The traditional architecture has been beautifully preserved and reflects the rich culture of the Newar people.

Views and silence at the Thani Mai Temple
A beautiful walk leads you to the Thani Mai Temple, situated on a hilltop above the town. The climb is rewarded with a sweeping view of the valleys below and, on clear days, even of the peaks of the Himalayas. This place invites a moment of rest and contemplation – a beautiful moment to reflect on your journey, or simply to enjoy the silence.

Buddhist monastery and sunset.
There is also a small Buddhist monastery in Bandipur that you are welcome to visit. Here you can see the monks meditating or hear them reciting prayers. A serene place where you can experience the tranquility of Buddhism anew.

End your day on a terrace in the bazaar with a hot tea or a local delicacy. As the sun slowly sets and bathes the town in a golden glow, you feel how Bandipur leaves a deep impression – not through crowds or grand sights, but through simplicity and silence.

After breakfast, you depart from charming Bandipur and continue traveling west. The drive to Pokhara takes about three hours and takes you past green hills, small villages, and views of mountains that seem to get closer and closer.

Around midday, you arrive in Pokhara, a city known for its relaxed atmosphere, beautiful nature, and the peaceful Lake Phewa. If the weather is clear, the snow-capped peaks of the Annapurna are reflected in the calm water – an unforgettable sight.

After lunch, take a relaxing walk along the lake shore. You will see fishermen at work, families picnicking on the grass, and boats gently bobbing on the water.
You can also take a short boat trip to a small island in the middle of the lake, where the Tal Barahi Temple is located—a serene place dedicated to the female manifestation of Vishnu. The ride across the lake and the visit to the temple give you another chance to unwind and soak up the spiritual atmosphere of Nepal.

At the end of the day, you attend a traditional Aarti ceremony on the shore of Lake Phewa. At sunset, pilgrims, monks, and visitors gather here to watch the priests ritually offer fire to Shiva. The flames dance to the rhythm of chants and singing bowls, while the sky turns orange. It is a special moment of reflection, beauty, and connection.

Today, your day starts early with a sunrise yoga session in Sarangkot, the highest hill in the Pokhara Valley. It is an iconic destination offering panoramic views of the majestic Himalayas. As the sun slowly rises behind the peaks of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, you can calm your body and mind with an invigorating yoga and meditation practice. The fresh mountain air and breathtaking views make this experience unforgettable and fill you with energy and inner peace.

After the yoga session, you will go to the Tashiling Tibetan Refugee Camp, where you will learn the traditional craft of making momos. Momos are delicious filled dough parcels that are an important part of Nepalese cuisine and originate in Tibet. At the camp, you will have the opportunity to make momos yourself with Nima, a local woman who has passed down her family’s secret recipes from generation to generation. This is a unique chance to experience Tibetan culture up close and prepare your own meal.

After lunch, prepared by your own hands, you will visit the Tibetan Refugee Camp and the small monastery located there. This offers you a chance to learn more about the history and culture of the Tibetan community in Nepal.

Next, you visit the World Peace Pagoda, a beautiful Buddhist stupa built to promote world peace. From the top, you have a magnificent view of the Pokhara Valley and the snow-capped peaks of the Annapurna. It is the perfect place to pause and reflect on the spiritual significance of your journey.

On the way back to Pokhara, you stop at Davis Falls, an impressive natural phenomenon where the river water suddenly disappears into the ground. Nearby is the Gupteshwor Cave, a sacred site for Hindus, where you can visit a small Shiva temple. The serene atmosphere of the cave makes it a perfect place for reflection and contemplation.

After a free morning, during which you can still enjoy the relaxed atmosphere by the lake, you will head to the Yoga Retreat Center in Pokhara, a place where you can surrender to a profound spiritual experience. You will be warmly welcomed with refreshing drinks and a briefing on the program.

The day starts at 3:30 PM with a Welcome Group Sound Healing session, a perfect way to calm your mind and body. Afterwards, at 4:00 PM, you will participate in the Bhakti Sadhana, a spiritual practice focused on dedication and devotion. The day concludes with a refreshing evening yoga session from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM, followed by a restful night in preparation for a day of deepening in the morning.

You will spend the night at the Yoga Retreat Center and experience the quiet and serene atmosphere of this retreat center in Pokhara.

Your day starts early with the Wake Up Bell at 6:30 AM, followed by a refreshing morning tea and preparation for your Morning Sadhana at 7:00 AM. After the morning training, you can participate in an invigorating activity such as Walking or Forest Bathing. At 10:00 AM, a healthy vegetarian brunch is served (with a vegan option).

In the afternoon, you can relax and participate in a range of soothing activities, including an Aroma Steam Inhalation or Mud Bath. You will also have time for a Sound Bath and a lecture on Philosophy to further deepen your spiritual journey.

The evening ends with a light, vegetarian dinner and a session of Mantra Sadhana, or self-meditation, allowing you to further calm your mind before going to bed.

You will spend the night at the Yoga Retreat Center again.

Today you start the morning again with a refreshing Morning Sadhana, followed by a final yoga session and a nutritious brunch.

After lunch, you will depart from the Yoga Retreat Center to the Pema Ts’al Sakya Monastery in Pokhara, where you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and panoramic views of the Annapurna and the Fishtail Himalayas. The Pema Ts’al Monastery is a spiritual place dedicated to preserving Sakya Buddhist traditions and teaching monks.

After exploring the monastery, you can join in prayers or meditations with the monks, or simply enjoy the serene atmosphere and the beautiful mountain views. In the surrounding area, you can also visit the nearby Tibetan Tashi Palkhel Refugee Settlement and admire the Jangchub Choeling Monastery.

For those seeking some adventure, there is the opportunity to relax by the pool or experience an adrenaline rush with activities such as zip-lining or bungee jumping at the Higher Grounds.

Na het verkennen van het klooster kun je deelnemen aan gebeden of meditaties met de monniken, of gewoon genieten van de serene sfeer en de prachtige uitzichten over de bergen. In de omgeving kun je ook het nabijgelegen Tibetaanse Tashi Palkhel Refugee Settlement bezoeken en de Jangchub Choeling Monastery bewonderen.

Voor wie wat avontuur zoekt, is er de mogelijkheid om te ontspannen bij het zwembad of een adrenaline-kick te ervaren met activiteiten zoals zip-lining of bungee jumping bij de Higher Grounds.

Today you begin a beautiful journey to the south of Nepal, towards the lowlands of the Terai. With a drive of approximately 7 to 8 hours, you will arrive in Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, a sacred place for Buddhists from all over the world. You will make the drive in a private vehicle, allowing you to comfortably enjoy the scenery.

Upon arrival in Lumbini, you have the afternoon to explore the Lumbini Gardens. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists, and it is here that Siddhartha Gautama, better known as Buddha, was born. The grounds contain several impressive temples and stupas, built by Buddhist communities from around the world.

One of the most important sights is the Ashoka Memorial Column, erected in 249 BC by Emperor Ashoka, a significant figure in Buddhism. It is a symbol of his pilgrimage to Lumbini. Next to this monument, you can experience the soothing atmosphere of the gardens and admire the various Buddhist temples that reflect the global influence of Buddhism.

Lumbini is a serene and spiritual destination, perfect for exploring Buddhist history and following in the footsteps of the Buddha.

Today you have the opportunity to further explore Lumbini at your own pace. The sacred area of ​​Lumbini is no less than 4.8 km long and 1.6 km wide, and consists of various sights directly related to the life of Buddha.

You can wander around freely and enjoy the ancient ruins of monasteries, the sacred Bodhi tree where Buddha is said to have attained meditation, and the Mayadevi Temple, which is considered the birthplace of Buddha. The grounds are dotted with scenes depicting the life of Buddha, allowing you to feel a deeper connection to his spiritual journey.

One of the most iconic places you shouldn’t miss is the Ashoka Pillar, a historical monument dating back to 249 BC. It commemorates Emperor Ashoka’s pilgrimage to Lumbini. The atmosphere here is peaceful and spiritual, with pilgrims from various countries singing and meditating throughout the day.

The best way to explore Lumbini is by bicycle, which you can rent at various locations nearby. This allows you to travel from one monastery to another in a relaxed manner. If it is too hot, you can hire a Nepalese rickshaw or tuk-tuk, which will take you from one temple to another in the shade. It is a pleasant way to explore the area while being protected from the sun.

Enjoy the serene atmosphere of this special place and take the time to take it all in. Lumbini is a place for reflection, peace, and connection with the Buddhist heritage of Nepal.

Tip : Lunch at Amma Café in Lumbini (not included)

Amma Café is the first women-run social enterprise at the Lumbini World Heritage site. It offers a unique dining experience while supporting vulnerable women in the region. Inspired by the ancient word for “mother,” the café honors strength and resilience. It provides employment and economic opportunities, thereby creating much-needed positive changes in the community. Enjoy a meal here and contribute to a meaningful cause.

Today you will travel from Lumbini to Chitwan, a drive of approximately 150 km that takes about 5 to 6 hours.

You arrive in Sauraha, a small village located right next to Chitwan National Park, around midday. The rest of the day is free to explore the surroundings.

Taking a walk along the river is highly recommended. You will not only see animals bathing in the river but also experience daily life in the Tharu villages.
Alternatively, you can enjoy the surroundings of the lodge and watch the elephants bathing in the river behind the lodge.

In the evening, you participate in Sunset Yoga and Meditation. You strengthen your spiritual experience with a soothing yoga session at sunset, followed by meditation.

Optional stop en route (Nawalpur)
On the second half of the drive, you have the opportunity to visit a few interesting places:

• Shashwat Dham: This Hindu religious site and tourist destination is located half an hour before Sauraha when coming from Lumbini. It includes a temple of Lord Shiva and a large 12-hectare site.
• CG Unnati Cultural Village: This cultural center, founded in 2021, provides a space for local and international artists to create artworks and literature. You can visit a small museum here featuring works by Nepali and international artists.

Talk to your driver in advance if you want to make a stop at one of these places!

Today, you start the morning early to participate in a Mindfulness Retreat in nature. At 6:30 AM, your adventure begins with an Open Jeep Safari through the nature park, followed by a classic breakfast in a treehouse in the middle of the jungle. This is a unique opportunity to fully take in the surroundings and enjoy the tranquility that Chitwan offers. After the safari, you can freshen up and then enjoy an hour-long relaxing Sapana Tharu Healing Hands Ayurveda Massage, which will bring you peace both physically and mentally.

After the massage, a healthy lunch at the lodge is on the program, where you can refuel and further take in nature. In the afternoon, you will have the chance to care for the elephants by giving them a basket of fruit and vegetables. This offers you the opportunity to get close to these impressive animals and contribute to their well-being. This is followed by a moment of tranquility with a Sunset Mindfulness Yoga and Meditation session, accompanied by traditional music. It is a serene experience that helps you to be fully in the moment.

The day ends with a special dinner. Under the stars, with a view of the elephants, you will enjoy a Candle Light Dinner. This romantic dinner in nature forms a magical and intimate farewell to a day full of peace, mindfulness, and connection with nature.

You depart from Sauraha (Chitwan) to Bhaktapur, a drive of approximately 175 km that takes about five hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. You travel in a private car with a driver so that you can enjoy the beautiful nature and landscape of Nepal along the way.

Upon arrival in Bhaktapur, you have the rest of the day free to explore this unique city. Bhaktapur is the best-preserved medieval city in Nepal and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city center is largely car-free and offers a charming atmosphere with small streets, colorful shops, and lively marketplaces. It is an ideal place to stroll around at a leisurely pace and soak up the city’s atmosphere.

The city also has a beautiful Durbar Square, featuring a royal palace reminiscent of the palaces in Kathmandu and Patan. The temples, pagodas, and statues are impressive and bear witness to the rich culture and history of Bhaktapur. Bhaktapur is also known as the ‘city of pottery’. In various squares throughout the city, you can see artisanal pottery in action, with thousands of pots drying in the sun. It is a fascinating sight and one of the special experiences that make Bhaktapur so unique.

Tip: Experience the meditative rhythm of clay and the potter’s wheel at Pottery Square.
In Bhaktapur, the centuries-old art of pottery is still very much alive. Take part in a workshop at Pottery Square and let yourself be carried away by the soothing, almost meditative process of working with clay. The rhythm of the wheel, the concentration of the artisans, and the connection with the earth make this a spiritual experience where you not only create something beautiful but also fully come to terms with yourself.

On day 15, you depart from Bhaktapur towards Namobuddha, a drive of approximately 30 kilometers that takes about an hour. You travel by private car.

Namobuddha is a beautiful and peaceful village in the hills that holds an important place within Tibetan Buddhism. Upon arrival, you take a short walk downhill to the famous Namo Buddha stupa. Although the stupa is small, it is of great spiritual significance.

After your visit to the stupa, you walk up to the impressive Namobuddha Monastery, situated on a hilltop and surrounded by nature. This recently built Tibetan Buddhist monastery offers a serene atmosphere and a beautiful view over the valley. Here you can meet the monks, talk with them, and participate in their prayer rituals – a unique opportunity to experience the peace and spirituality of Buddhism up close.

Namobuddha is a sacred place where, according to an ancient Buddhist legend, the young Prince Siddhartha – the future Buddha – offered his own body to a hungry tigress and her cubs. This act of compassion is seen as an important step on his path to enlightenment and makes Namobuddha a particularly spiritual moment for visitors.

Today you drive from Namobuddha back to Kathmandu. Along the way, you will visit two special spiritual places in the Kathmandu Valley.

Your first stop is the impressive Budhanilkantha, where you can admire the largest and most beautiful stone sculpture in Nepal. This 5-meter-long statue of Vishnu lies in a water reservoir and depicts the god in a reclining position, surrounded by the cosmic serpent Shesha. The statue is beautifully detailed, with Vishnu’s four hands holding symbols of the universe. It is a serene place that is perfect for reflection and admiration.

After Budhanilkantha, continue to Kapan Gumba, one of the most popular Buddhist monasteries in the region. Here you can experience the serene atmosphere of the monastery and participate in meditation or stroll through the beautiful gardens overlooking Kathmandu. The monastery is an important place for foreigners wishing to study Tibetan Buddhism and meditation. After your visit, you can walk on to Phulhari Monastery, known for the beautiful Thangka paintings adorning the walls, and Vajrayan Monastery, another spiritual highlight nearby.

This is a day of deep spiritual connection, where you have the chance to experience the essence of both Hinduism and Buddhism in Nepal.

Departure from Kathmandu to the Airport

Today your journey through Nepal comes to an end. We hope you enjoyed the trip and collected memories that will last a lifetime.

On the day of departure, you will be picked up from the reception of your accommodation in Kathmandu at least three hours before your international flight. A private car will then take you to the airport departure hall.

If your flight departs in the evening, you need to check out before noon. You can safely leave your luggage at the reception of your accommodation until you are picked up for the ride to the airport.

A moment to conclude the journey and cherish the many spiritual experiences and adventures you have gained in Nepal.

The best time to take this spiritual journey is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these periods, the weather conditions are ideal – mild, clear, and suitable for trekking and outdoor activities. This trip is also possible during the monsoon months, but please bear in mind that it can be very hot in the South at that time.

This trip is suitable for anyone wishing to embark on a spiritual journey in Nepal, particularly for travelers aged 55+ seeking a spiritual experience in a peaceful setting. The itinerary has been carefully curated with moderate hikes and accommodations offering comfort and relaxation, perfect for travelers interested in meditation, yoga, and Buddhist culture who do not wish to compromise on comfort.

Bring comfortable, breathable clothing suitable for Nepal’s climate, and comfortable clothing for your yoga sessions. Light clothing is suitable for lower areas such as Kathmandu and Pokhara, while you will need a jacket or sweater for higher areas (such as Namobuddha), especially during the morning and evening hours. Don’t forget to bring good walking shoes for the short walks.

No. The trip is designed for travelers in good health, but it is not a strenuous journey. There are some light walks and visits to spiritual sites, but no multi-day treks. Most activities are quiet and meditative in nature.

Yes, the accommodations often offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Please let us know in advance if you have specific dietary requirements so that we can ensure your meals meet your needs.

All selected accommodations are comfortable and relaxing, with a focus on serene environments that contribute to the spiritual experience. In some locations, you stay on monastic grounds, offering an authentic experience of Buddhist life.

During this trip, you will sometimes be accompanied by an English-speaking guide who will help explain the cultural and spiritual aspects of the visited places. If you would like more personal guidance, you can book an additional guide for certain of the other activities or for the entire trip. Our guides are English-speaking.