Our Kathmandu adventure started on a high, and they don’t come much higher than this!
Quite literally, our first experience was an early morning mountain flight soaring past the Tibetan Plateau and the majestic Mt Everest herself. A bucket-list moment achieved within hours of arrival—it set the tone for an unforgettable journey.
Back on solid ground, we explored the rich culture of the Kathmandu Valley. Patan Durbar Square, with its intricately carved temples and historic architecture, was a feast for the eyes. A truly special experience followed – a cooking demonstration and lunch in the home of a local family. A beautiful way to share stories, traditions, and the spices that flavour daily life in Nepal.
Later, we wandered through Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and spiritual hub of the city. With close to 50 temples in the area, you’re never far from a sacred stupa or hidden shrine. And yes, the shopping is just as divine! Don’t miss the glittering jewellery stores and irresistibly soft alpaca scarves and jumpers. Our rickshaw ride through the city? Let’s just say I laughed so much my cheeks hurt. Truly one for the memory bank.
From there, it was south to Chitwan and into the wild. The Royal Chitwan National Park, Nepal’s first national park and a UNESCO site, spans a pristine 932 square kilometres and is home to over 43 species of mammals. Our eyes were peeled for tigers, and while they remained elusive, our guide assured us the tigers definitely saw us! Disappointment melted away when we encountered the awe-inspiring one-horned rhinoceros, so close, so majestic. From jungle walks to canoe rides to bumpy-but-fun jeep safaris, we tried it all. Chitwan delivered in every way.
On safari in Chitwan National Park
Next up was Bandipur, a hidden gem perched on a ridge and packed with timeless charm. Unlike many hill towns, Bandipur has beautifully preserved its Newari heritage. Temples, shrines, sacred caves and traditional architecture abound. It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down and breathe in the atmosphere.
Then came Pokhara—a natural wonderland. Nestled at 900m above sea level and 200km west of Kathmandu, this lakeside town is an adventurer’s dream and a peaceful haven all in one. With stunning views of the Himalayan peaks and the glassy calm of Phewa Lake, it felt like something out of a painting. Our sunrise visits to Sarangkot, with the Annapurna range bathed in golden light, were nothing short of magical.
Pokhara also satisfied our shopping itch—with exquisite stone-set jewellery and bargain finds in outdoor “North Fake” apparel. A serene boat ride on Phewa Lake wrapped up our stay here in the most calming way possible.
Our 25-minute flight back to Kathmandu was perhaps the shortest I’ve ever taken, and yet we landed with a head full of memories and a heart full of gratitude.
Canoe Ride on the Rapti River
Before saying goodbye to Nepal, we visited Bhaktapur Durbar Square – yet another UNESCO World Heritage Site – a stunning showcase of medieval Newari craftsmanship. The square is the beating heart of Bhaktapur and one of the Valley’s most picturesque historic enclaves.
From the rooftop of the world to ancient city squares, wildlife encounters and Himalayan sunrises, Nepal captured our hearts at every turn. It’s a country that balances spiritual depth, cultural richness, and natural beauty in perfect harmony. Whether you’re ticking off your bucket list or simply searching for meaningful moments, Nepal doesn’t just deliver—it lingers long after you’ve left.
Until next time, Namaste.
