Festival and Cultural Tour Nepal 2024

Trip Facts
  • Trip Grade Easy
  • Destination Nepal
  • Max. Altitude 1,650 M
  • Trip Style Cultural Trip
  • Trip Type Solo, Group & Fixed Departure
  • Best Time September-November

Highlights

  • Explore some of the most popular tourist cities in Nepal- Kathmandu, Chitwan, Pokhara, and Bandipur

  • Visit centuries-old historical sites in Kathmandu like Pashupatinath Temple, Monkey Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square

  • Go on a jungle safari, bird watching, canoeing, and visit an indigenous village of the Tharu community in Chitwan

  • Explore caves, lakes, and viewpoints in Pokhara like Sarangkot, Davis Falls, International Mountain Museum, Mahendra Cave, Phewa Lake, etc.

  • Hike to beautiful Dhampus village through lush forests, unwinding and rejuvenating

  • Witness stunning views of mountains like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Fishtail, and Lamjung Himal

  • Join our expert guide on a food tour in Kathmandu and try several Nepali delicacies

  • Participate in grand Nepali festivals and learn about Nepalese culture and tradition

If you are planning a visit to Nepal, you should consider visiting during the festival season to experience the vibrant and colorful festivities. Our festival and cultural tour Nepal 2024 is the best package to experience festivity. You can choose the date of the tour as per the festival you want to join.

Nepal is a beautiful country that is steeped in rich cultural traditions and vibrant festivals. These festivals are a celebration of the country's diverse ethnic and religious communities. They are a great way to experience the country's vibrant culture and customs. A festival tour in Nepal is an excellent way to immerse oneself in the country's unique culture and learn more about its people.

One of the benefits of visiting Nepal during these festivals is that you will have the opportunity to experience the country's rich culture and traditions firsthand. You can witness traditional dances, taste local delicacies, and learn about the local's beliefs and customs. The festivals in Nepal are a great way to meet new people and make new friends, as everyone is in a festive and welcoming mood.

In addition to the cultural experiences, following our festival and cultural tour package in Nepal, you will also get the chance to explore the country's historical monuments and natural beauty. Nepal is home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world, including the Himalayan mountain range, lush forests, and pristine lakes and rivers. There are numerous opportunities to go on city tours, hiking, rafting, and wildlife spotting during your festival tour in Nepal.

Festival and cultural tour Nepal itinerary

The festival and cultural tour in Nepal is a 12 days program. During the tour, you will visit Nepal's four most popular tourist cities and also go on a short hike to beautiful Dhampus village. The cultural tour in Nepal begins with your arrival in Kathmandu. Here, you will visit many UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Monkey Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Kathmandu Durbar Square.

All these monuments get heavily decorated for the festivals. And you can see the hundreds of locals visiting these sites. The markets are bustling, and you can feel the festivity in the air. From Kathmandu, you will travel to Chitwan, where you will see wildlife like one-horn rhinos, elephants, and other animals & birds. You will also visit a Tharu village and participate in the celebration with the villagers. It will be an unforgettable experience.

The tour then goes to Pokhara, the beautiful city of lakes. We will go on a short hike to Dhampus village, which offers an outstanding landscape and stunning views of Annapurna (8,091 m/26,545 ft) and Mt. Fishtail (6,993 m/22,943 ft). In Pokhara, you will visit Sarangkot, World Peace Pagoda, International Mountain Museum, Davis Falls, Mahendra Cave, Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, etc. Pokhara is all about viewpoints, lakes, and caves.

If you have a few days in hand, we highly recommend extending the tour to Ghorepani and Poon Hill. It is a short trek that takes 5 to 7 days to complete depending upon the trekker's pace.

From Pokhara, we continue the tour to Bandipur. Bandipur is a charming hilltop town located in the Tanahun district of Nepal. This place is known for its well-preserved traditional Newari architecture, lush greenery, and stunning views of the Himalayas. Bandipur is a living museum of Newari culture and architecture, and walking through its streets feels like taking a step back in time.

The town's buildings are adorned with intricate wood carvings, and its narrow streets are lined with ancient brick houses that have remained largely unchanged for centuries. You will then drive back to Kathmandu, and the following day, join a food tour with our guide. Learn about Nepali spices, assortments, and delicacies. Try local dishes and indulge in the flavors. And don't forget to do window shopping in Thamel.

Dashain Festival tour in Nepal 2024 (3rd October to 12th October)

Dashain, also known as Bijaya Dashami. It is one of the most significant festivals celebrated in Nepal. It is a 10-day long festival that falls in the months of September or October. The dates vary each year based on the Nepali calendar. In 2024, Dashain will begin on October 3rd and end on October 12th.

If you want to participate in this 10-day grand celebration in Nepal, then you can book our festival and cultural tour in Nepal around this day. You will be exploring the cities as per our itinerary along with participating in the festivals.

Talking about the Dashain, this festival has great importance to the Nepali people. Dashain celebrates the victory of good over evil. It is a time when families and friends come together to celebrate and enjoy good food, music, and festivities. The festival is also an opportunity for people to take a break from their daily routines and spend quality time with their loved ones.

The celebration of Dashain begins with Ghatasthapana, where a pot is filled with holy water and sowed with barley seeds. This pot is kept in a sacred room for 10 days and is worshiped every day. The festival culminates on the day of Vijaya Dashami, where people offer prayers to the goddess Durga and seek her blessings for prosperity and happiness.

Tihar Festival tour in Nepal 2024 (30th October to 3rd November)

Tihar, also known as Deepawali or the festival of lights, is a five-day-long festival celebrated in Nepal. The festival falls in October or November, and the dates vary yearly based on the Nepali calendar. In 2024, Tihar will begin on October 30th and end on November 3rd.

This is a lovely festival when the entire country gets decorated with millions of lights and garlands. It is the festival of prosperity, bonding, and delicious sweets. To participate in Tihar, book this tour according to the mentioned date above.

Tihar is the second biggest festival in Nepal. It is celebrated to honor various gods and goddesses. Each day of the festival has a different significance and is associated with the worship of different deities. The festival also celebrates the bond between humans and animals, such as cows, dogs, and crows are considered sacred during Tihar.

The first day of Tihar is known as Kaag Tihar, where crows are worshiped by offering food and sweets. The second day is Kukur Tihar, where dogs are worshiped and offered special food. On the third day, people decorate their homes with lights and flowers and worship the goddess of wealth, Laxmi.

The fourth day of Tihar is known as Govardhan Puja or Mha Puja, where people perform a ritual to honor their own self and their ancestors. The final day of Tihar is Bhai Tika, where sisters put tika (a mixture of rice, yogurt, and vermilion) on their brothers' foreheads and pray for their well-being.

During the festival, people decorate their homes with colorful lights, flowers, and rangoli patterns. They prepare various traditional dishes such as sel roti, sweets, and meat dishes and share them with their friends and family members.

One of the most unique aspects of Tihar is the tradition of playing Deusi and Bhailo, where groups of young people go from house to house singing traditional songs and playing instruments such as Madals and dhols. In return, they are offered money, sweets, and other treats.

 

Chhath Festival tour in Nepal 2024 (6th November to 7th November)

Chhath is a four-day-long festival celebrated in Nepal, which is dedicated to the worship of the sun god, Surya. The festival falls in October or November, and the dates vary each year based on the Nepali calendar. In 2024, Chhath will begin on November 6th and end on November 7th.

Chhath is the third important festival in Nepal. It is celebrated by people of all ages and backgrounds. The festival is especially popular in the Terai region of Nepal, where the majority of the population is Hindu. The festival is significant because it is believed that by worshiping the sun god, people can purify their minds, bodies, and souls.

The first day of Chhath is known as Nahay Khay, where devotees take a holy bath and prepare special dishes such as kheer, chura, and sabzi. On the second day, known as Kharna, devotees observe a day-long fast and break it in the evening after offering prayers to the sun god.

The third day of Chhath is the main day of the festival, known as Sandhya Arghya, where devotees offer prayers to the setting sun. They stand in waist-deep water and offer Arghya (water, flowers, and offerings) to the sun while chanting mantras and songs. After this, they light Diyas (oil lamps) and perform aarti (offering light) to the sun.

The final day of Chhath is known as Usha Arghya, where devotees offer prayers to the rising sun. They repeat the same ritual as the previous day, but this time, they offer Arghya to the rising sun.

During the festival, people also decorate their homes with colorful lights and flowers. They prepare various traditional dishes to share with their friends and family members. The festival is a time for people to come together and celebrate the power of the sun god, Surya.

Trip Itinerary

The itinerary below is the itinerary for the fixed departure in 2023. If you wish to visit on different dates, we can arrange a private tour.

  • Day 1:Arrive in Kathmandu
  • Day 2:Guided Kathmandu Valley sightseeing
  • Day 3:Drive from Kathmandu to Chitwan
  • Day 4:Full-day jungle activities in Chitwan National Park /Bird watching
  • Day 5:Drive from Chitwan to Pokhara
  • Day 6:Full-day tour in Pokhara
  • Day 7:Drive from Pokhara to Phedi (1,130 m/3,707 ft) and hike to Dhampus (1,650 m/5,413 ft)
  • Day 8:Dhampus to Bandipur
  • Day 9:Full-day tour in Bandipur
  • Day 10:Drive from Bandipur to Kathmandu
  • Day 11:Food Tour In Kathmandu
  • Day 12:Final departure

Welcome to Kathmandu! We're delighted to have you here in Nepal's vibrant capital city. As soon as you land at Tribhuvan International Airport, our friendly team will be waiting to greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Once you arrive at your hotel, our team will help you check in and get settled.

Take some time to rest and refresh yourself after your journey, and later head out to explore the surrounding area on your own. We will meet you in the late evening for a welcome dinner and also introduce you to your tour guide.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsWelcome dinner

Today, you'll have the opportunity to explore some of the most fascinating and historic sites in the Kathmandu Valley with the help of our expert local guides. We'll start the day by visiting the Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple. This ancient temple sits atop a hill overlooking the city. Next, we'll head to the Pashupatinath Temple. It is one of the most important Hindu temples in the world. This complex is dedicated to the god Shiva and is home to a holy cremation site on the banks of the Bagmati River. Then we’ll drive to Boudhanath Stupa, the largest stupa in Nepal. This magnificent structure is surrounded by prayer flags and butter lamp offerings. It is a serene and peaceful place to reflect and meditate.

Our last stop of the day is Kathmandu Durbar Square, which used to be the royal residence of the Shah kings and now serves as an open museum to visitors. Here, you will explore Nepali art, architecture, and history. You will visit the palace, courtyards, shrines, and temples. The bustling market and small eateries around the area are worth exploring too.

*Note: If you are in Kathmandu right on time, you will see the monuments decorated for the festival and the locals praying.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast & lunch

Distance: 204 km/126 miles

Drive duration: 6-7 hours

We will depart from the hotel in Kathmandu and start our drive to Chitwan. The highway we will follow is well-made, so the ride will be comfortable. Following the winding road alongside verdant hills and rivers, we will drive to Chitwan. The scenery along the route is fantastic. After lunch and some rest in our hotel in Chitwan, we will explore the local markets and nearby areas on foot.

Later, we will go on a cultural tour of the park's neighboring Tharu villages, where you can learn about the local culture, traditions, and lifestyle of the Tharu people. We get to see their stick dance and participate in the festivity. After the tour, the guide will drop you back at the hotel to spend the night.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast, lunch & dinner

Chitwan National Park is a beautiful and vast protected area in southern Nepal, known for its rich biodiversity and dense jungles. There are many full-day jungle activities that visitors can do to explore and appreciate the beauty of the park. We will begin our morning with a delicious breakfast and head for canoeing. We will paddle through the calm waters of the Rapti or Narayani River, which are home to several species of birds and animals.

Then we will go on a short jungle walk. There are several trails inside the Chitwan National Park through dense forests. Your trained guide will help you spot wildlife and provide you with interesting information about the park. We will then join a jeep safari, which will take us deep into the jungle. We will go close to the habitat of wildlife. The safari will let us spot wildlife, including rhinos, tigers, wild elephants, boars, and deer.

We will end the day by visiting the elephant breeding center and then go on a short bird watching. Chitwan National Park is home to over 500 species of birds, making it a bird watcher's paradise. After the tour, we will head back to the hotel to spend the night.

  • AccommodationResort
  • MealsBreakfast, lunch & dinner

Distance: 160 km/99 miles

Drive Duration: 5 hours

We will check out of our hotel in Chitwan and start driving to Pokhara in the morning. The ride from Chitwan to Pokhara will be fantastic and filled with stunning views of green hills, waterfalls, terraces, and mountains. Along the way, we will stop at the scenic town of Tansen for a short break and to enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Upon reaching Pokhara, we will check in at our hotel and rest. Later, explore the surrounding area. Stroll on the bustling streets of Lakeside Market and catch a beautiful sunset at Phewa Lake. You can go boating and indulge in the serenity of the lake. We can see views of Mt. Fishtail and Mt. Machhapuchhre.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast, lunch & dinner

Pokhara is a beautiful city in Nepal, known for its stunning scenery, serene lakes, and vibrant culture. Our Pokhara tour begins early in the morning with a short drive to Sarangkot, a hilltop from where we will see a gorgeous sunrise with breathtaking views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. The aerial view of Pokhara city, Mt. Fishtail, and Lamjung Himal are also fantastic.

Sarangkot is famous for paragliding too. If you love doing adventure sports, join paragliding by paying a few additional bucks. From Sarangkot, we will head to the International Mountain Museum and World Peace Pagoda. Our next part of the tour will take us to Davis Falls, Mahendra Cave, and Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast, lunch & dinner

Distance: 18.7 km/11.6 miles

Drive Duration: 2 hours

We will use a private vehicle to drive from Pokhara to Phedi. The route goes alongside farming fields and the Seti River. The ride will be a couple of hours, and we will begin easy trekking towards Dhampus following a forested trail. For the starting half an hour, the trail ascends to a ridge from where we get to see the beautiful view of a river valley. From here, we will trek through terraced fields and small settlements to the lovely Dhampus village. The views of the Annapurna range and Mt. Machhapuchhre is stunning along the way.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast, lunch & dinner

Distance: 102.2 km/63.5 miles

Drive Duration: 4 hours

We will leave Dhampus early in the morning after breakfast. Following the same trail back, we will descend to Phedi, from where we will hop on a private four-wheeler and drive to Bandipur. The drive will be excellent with views of mountains, hills, rivers, and waterfalls. You will reach Bandipur and check in to your hotel. Bandipur is a charming town with traditional architecture, narrow streets, and panoramic views of the Himalayas.

In the evening, we will visit a hilltop to watch a lovely sunset, which offers stunning views of the Himalayas and the surrounding valleys. Later, we will enjoy a traditional Newari dinner at one of the local restaurants and experience the town's unique culture and traditions.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast, lunch & dinner

After breakfast at the hotel, we will take a leisurely walk through the town's narrow streets and observe the traditional Newari architecture and buildings. We can also visit the local bazaar, which sells a variety of handmade crafts and souvenirs. Later in the day, we will visit Bindabasini Temple, a significant Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Durga. This temple is located on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the town and surrounding valleys.

After lunch, we will rest for an hour or two and hike to Siddha Cave or Ramkot Village. The hiking trail goes through lush forests. On the way, we will visit local villages and enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas and surrounding valleys. We will spend the evening exploring the local market and end the day with a delicious meal.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast, lunch & dinner

Distance: 147.4 km/ 91.5 miles

Drive Duration: 5 hours

The drive from Bandipur to Kathmandu is a scenic journey that takes us through some of Nepal's beautiful countryside. As we leave Bandipur, we will drive through winding roads that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. We will pass through small villages and towns where you can witness the everyday life of the Nepalese people.

As we'll approach Kathmandu, the landscape changes from rural to urban, with bustling streets and colorful markets. The guide will drop you at the hotel. You have the remaining day free to rest and explore Thamel and the surrounding area.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast, lunch & dinner

A food tour in Kathmandu is a must-do for anyone who loves to explore local cuisine and culture. Kathmandu is known for its rich and diverse food scene, influenced by its location at the crossroads of different cultures and regions.

Your guide will take you to some of the city's bustling food markets, where you can see a variety of fresh ingredients, spices, and snacks. You can try some local street food, such as momos (dumplings), chatamari (rice crepes), and sel roti (sweet rice donuts).

We will also visit traditional Nepalese restaurants and try dishes like yomori, Newari Khaja set, and other local items. Some of the must-try dishes are sekuwa, sukuti, and titaura. You can also participate in short cooking classes and learn to make bhat or momos.

After the tour, the guide will drop you at the hotel. You have the rest of the evening free. Relax and do shopping as it is your last chance. In the late evening, we will meet for a farewell dinner and end our tour in Nepal.

 
  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast, lunch & farewell dinner

We hope you had a good time with us in Nepal. Today, our team will help you check out from the hotel and drop you at the Tribhuvan International Airport. We wish you a safe flight back to your home or your next destination.

    It is our regular itinerary if you are looking for a personalized or planning an offline trip. Please, feel free to share our travel experts.

    Trip Map

    Festival and Cultural Tour Nepal 2024 map

    Cost Details

    • Airport pick-up and drop by private tourist vehicle.
    • local SIM card with internet and balance.
    • Welcome, and Farewell dinner in a popular local restaurant.
    • 3-4 star hotels in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Lumbini
    • Resort in Chitwan with Tharu culture show
    • Fully guided Sightseeing in Kathmandu, Chitwan, Lumbini, and Pokhara on a private vehicle.
    • Also includes bird watching, an elephant back safari, a canoe ride, visiting an elephant breeding center, and the cultural program of the Tharu people
    • Government licensed English speaking local Guide
    • All land transportation (private vehicles)
    • All required national park and entry Permits.
    • All food, drinks, Lodge, salary, Insurance, medical equipment, for guide.
    • Large-size photo of your tour in a big Frame for Memory.
    • All government taxes, VAT, Tourist Service charges, and official expenses.

     

    • International flight tickets.
    • Nepal entry visa: you can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. (A multiple-entry tourist visa good for 30 days can be obtained by paying US $ 50 or equivalent foreign currency. Similarly, multiple-entry tourist visas for 90 days can be obtained by paying US $ 120. Please bring 2 copies of passport-size photos.)
    • Any bar bills (alcoholic drinks, mineral water, and cold drinks), cigarettes, client’s personal insurance, or any kind of unforeseen expenses.
    • Travel insurance (should include high-altitude rescue in an emergency)
    • Tips for Guide and Porter (Tips are not compulsory ).
    • Other adventure activities such as Bungee, paragliding, and rafting.

    Essential Info

    Accommodation & Meals during the tour

    Hotel accommodations and meals during a festival tour in Nepal can vary depending on the cities. We will book you the best three-star hotels/resorts in all the cities. You will get a private room with an attached washroom and all the modern amenities. In Dhampus, you will stay overnight in a lodge. The facilities will be limited, but the experience will be fantastic.

    You can also upgrade the hotels to 4-star or 5-star as per your wish. Our package covers three meals a day during the tour, and you are free to buy additional snacks & beverages on your own. Nepalese cuisine is diverse and flavorful. There are plenty of options for meals during a festival tour in Nepal.

    1. Local cuisine: Nepalese cuisine includes dishes such as dal bhat (lentil soup and rice), momos (steamed dumplings), and chow mein (stir-fried noodles). We will often take you to local restaurants or guest houses where you can sample traditional Nepalese cuisine.

    2. Western cuisine: Almost all the hotels and restaurants offer multi cuisines menu that also includes western dishes such as pizza, burgers, and pasta for those who prefer more familiar options.

    3. Street food: For adventurous foodies, there are plenty of street food options in Nepal, such as samosas, chatpate (spicy snack mix), choyla, sukuti, and sekuwa (grilled meat skewers).

    Guide

    Our festival tours are led by knowledgeable and experienced local guides who are passionate about sharing their culture with travelers. They are fluent in English and are trained to provide personalized attention to each group member, ensuring that you have a memorable and enjoyable experience.

    Our guides will provide you with historical and cultural insights into the festivals and events you will be attending. They will also be available to answer any questions you may have and help you with any issues that may arise during the tour.

    Our festival tour guides are well-versed in the customs and traditions of Nepal. They will help you navigate the crowds and ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience. They will provide information on the significance of the festivals, the history of the area, and the customs of the people.

    They will also be able to give you tips on where to eat and shop and provide suggestions for other activities to do during your free time. Our guides are also trained in first aid and emergency response and are equipped to handle any unexpected situations that may arise during the tour.

    Travel Insurance

    You can consider getting travel insurance while visiting Nepal. Even though our festival and cultural tour in Nepal package does not need emergency evacuation and the risk of any injury during the tour is zero, you can still get travel insurance if you wish to cover unexpected events such as theft, flight cancellation, or illness.

    If your trip to Nepal is canceled or interrupted due to unforeseen circumstances such as bad weather, political unrest, or personal emergency, it can result in financial losses. Look for a policy that provides coverage for trip cancellation or interruption. Likewise, in case you accidentally cause property damage or injure someone, it is important to have personal liability coverage to protect yourself from financial losses.

    Nepal is a safe country, but theft and loss of personal belongings can happen anywhere. Make sure your travel insurance policy covers theft and loss of personal belongings such as luggage, camera, and other valuables.

    FAQs

    • Q1. What are some popular festivals and cultural tours in Nepal?

      Some popular festivals and cultural tours in Nepal include Dashain, Tihar, Chhath, Holi, Buddha Jayanti, and the different Jatras.

    • The best time to visit Nepal for festivals and cultural tours is during the fall season (September to November), when many of the major festivals take place. You can check out the date of the festivals you want to see first hand and book the tour as per that.

    • It is recommended to dress conservatively and respectfully for festivals and cultural tours in Nepal. Comfortable shoes are also recommended as some tours may involve walking.

       
    • Dashain and Tihar are two of the most important festivals in Nepal, celebrated to mark the victory of good over evil, and the reverence of ancestors and the goddess of wealth, respectively.

       
    • Yes, many temples and religious sites in Nepal are open to visitors during festivals, but it's important to be respectful of the traditions and practices during these times. Our guide will assist you during the visit and help you navigate the crowd.

    • It may be possible to participate in some of the rituals and ceremonies during festivals in Nepal. Be respectful and seek permission from the appropriate authorities beforehand.

    • Nepal is generally considered safe for travel, but it's always a good idea to exercise caution and take necessary precautions, such as avoiding large crowds and following local customs and regulations.

    • You can book festivals and cultural tours in Nepal with us through our site. Go to our package and click on the booking button. Fill in the information and do the advance booking payment. Our team will get in touch with us once we receive the booking request and begin the further process.

    • Souvenirs available during festivals and cultural tours in Nepal may include traditional handicrafts, clothing, and jewelry, as well as other items related to the culture and traditions of the region.

       

       

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