Nepal Family Adventure tour
14 Days
Visiting: Nepal
Tour operator:
Tour code:
124
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 16
Age range:
5-95
Special diets catered:
Request dietary needs
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Tour Overview
This tour has been specifically designed for families that want to bring their children to Nepal for an exciting tour that combines some adventurous activities with a few visits to exotic temples and cultural sites. We include Hindhu & Buddhist temples in Kathmandu, an Annapurna lodge trek, some easy white water rafting and wildlife viewing in Chitwan National Park. Group sizes are kept small, with carefully selected guides who will do much more than just explain the history and surroundings to you.
We'll start our journey in the vibrant capital, Kathmandu, where we'll explore the bustling streets in a fun rickshaw ride. We'll visit ancient temples and palaces, and even see the Living Goddess! Next, we'll fly to the beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara and enjoy a relaxing boat trip. We'll also learn how to make delicious Nepali dumplings called momos!
Then, it's time for some trekking! We'll embark on a 4-day hike through the stunning Annapurna region, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. We'll stay in cozy lodges along the way and enjoy delicious meals prepared by our friendly crew. You'll even have the chance to climb Panchase Hill for even more spectacular vistas!
Back in Pokhara, we'll have a splashing good time with white-water rafting on the Lower Seti River. We'll camp by the riverbank under the stars, making memories that will last a lifetime.
Next, we'll head to Chitwan National Park for an exciting jungle safari! We'll search for rhinos, tigers, and other amazing wildlife. We'll also visit a Tharu village and learn about their unique culture.
Our journey ends back in Kathmandu, where we'll visit the ancient city of Bhaktapur and try our hand at pottery making. We'll also see two of Nepal's most important religious sites, the Hindu temple of Pashupatinath and the 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 shorter version of this tour for those who prefer a trip with no trekking included, this is our Nepal Family Essentials.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Day 1: Arrive In Kathmandu: Transfer To Hotel
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
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
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: Begin The Panchase Trek To Bhundi (3-4 Hours)
Today, we begin our 3-day trek in the beautiful Annapurna region of the Himalayas. After being introduced to the porters and cooks, a bus will take us to Dam Head from where we start trekking on to Bhumdi (1,500m), which is where we will stay on the first night.
Day 5 : Day 5: Trek From Bhundi To Panchase Bhanjjang (4-5 Hours)
Today we trek from Bhundi to Panchase Bhanjjang which will take 4 to 5 hours. The trek is a scenic uphill journey through picturesque landscapes, offering glimpses into rural Nepali life and stunning mountain views.
Day 6 : Day 6: Optional Hike Up Panchase Hill: Trek To Bhadaure (3-4 Hours)
This morning you have the opportunity to make the climb up to Panchase Hill (2,500m) for an even better view of the nearby peaks of which include Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Manaslu (8,156m).
Day 7 : Day 7: Trek To Naudanda (3 Hours) And Drive Back To Pokhara
Our short camping trek ends today with an easy walk down to Naudanda.
Day 8 : Day 8: Family Friendly White-Water Rafting On The Lower Seti And Camping By The Riverside
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 9 : Day 9: Drive To Chitwan National Park: Begin Safari Activities And Explore The Local Tharu Village
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 10 : Day 10: Chitwan National Park Safari Activities
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 11 : Day 11: Chitwan To The Hilltop Village Of Bandipur. Bandipur Walking Tour
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 12 : Day 12: Return To Kathmandu: Free Afternoon
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 13 : Day 13: Bhaktapur Ancient Centre With Pottery Class: Pasupatinath & Boudhanath
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 14 : Day 14: Kathmandu: Tour Ends: Airport Transfer
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
- International flights (available on request)
- Visa fees (available on arrival for most nationalities)
- Travel insurance (compulsory, available on request)
- Meals not indicated in the itinerary
- Drinks, snacks and other
Mode of Transport
A/C minibus
4x4 jeep
Accommodation
2 to 4-star hotels
Trekking Lodges
Check out our Q&As
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Is there a limit to luggage that can be brought on the tour?
If you are trekking with us, we ask that you keep the weight of your main bag that the porter will carry to a maximum of 12.5kg. This then allows the porter to carry up to 2 bags, and a maximum of 25kg (the International Porter Protection group's advised limit for Nepal is 30kg, which then leaves a little more weight for their own kit). This weight allowance includes your sleeping bag if you are hiring it from us and not carrying it with you to Nepal
If you are doing an Everest trek and flying from Kathmandu to Lukla, then flight luggage limits are 10kg for your main bag and 5kg for hand luggage - total 15kg. You can re-arrange that after you arrive in Lukla. Please keep to these limits as while you can pay for extra weight, it may be held back until the next flight which may then be delayed or cancelled.
Treks in Bhutan follow the same weight limits for your ponies.
You may leave other luggage securely locked in your hotel during the trek. If you are travelling as a couple then we suggest you leave one main bag in Kathmandu and share the other main bag that the porter will then carry. -
Are airport transfers included in this tour?
Your airport arrival & departure transfers are included on the first and last days of the tour. Most of our Nepal tours start and finish at Kathmandu airport (KTM).
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Are all the relevant entry visa’s included in the price of the tour?
Visa arrangements are the responsibility of the traveller, and requirements are subject to change by the local authorities.
Many nationals can obtain their Nepalese visa in Kathmandu airport upon arrival (including UK, EU, US, CA, AU, NZ, SA citizens). The costs for a single entry visa are currently:
- up to 15 days - US$ 25
- 16 to 30 days - US$ 40
- 31 to 90 days - US$ 100
An additional $20 fee is charged to convert these into a multiple entry visa which will be needed for any tours returning to Nepal after visiting Bhutan or Tibet.
The visa is obtained in the immigration area at the point where your passport is stamped. Forms to fill in are available in this immigration hall and may also be given out on your flight (if so, do fill them in before you land as it will reduce your queuing time). You will also need to fill in an arrivals card. Once your paperwork is completed, head to the immigration desk and hand over your forms, 2 passport photos, your visa fee and passport. The visa fees are set in US Dollars, but you can also pay in other currencies, but don't rely on getting given change.
Passport Photos: You will need two passport photos for your Nepal visa if you are obtaining it on arrival. If you are doing any trekking, rafting or visiting a National Park (i.e. on many of of our tours), you should bring extras, as some of the permits we may need to get require these. Please bring at least 4 passport photos with you - they will always come in useful later if you don't need them all. -
Are vaccinations required for this tour?
You should ensure you are fully insured for medical emergencies including emergency evacuation and repatriation.
Recommended vaccinations and other health protection measures vary according to the country you are visiting and where you are travelling from. We recommend you contact your GP/medical practitioner or a travel clinic for current information on vaccinations needed for your destination. You should ensure that you are up to date with vaccines and boosters recommended for your normal life at home, including for example, vaccines required for occupational risk of exposure, lifestyle risks and underlying medical conditions. In addition, additional courses or boosters normally recommended for the countries in this region are:
Nepal: Additional vaccinations: Diptheria, Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from or having transitted through an infected area.
Bhutan: Additional vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from or having transitted through an infected area.
Tibet: Additional vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from or having transitted through an infected area.
Malaria: Vaccinations are not available against Malaria, which is a disease transmitted by mosquitoes that can be very serious and sometimes fatal. You should avoid mosquito bites by covering up bare skin with clothing such as long sleeves and long trousers and applying insect repellents to exposed skin. When necessary, sleep under a mosquito net. Mosquitoes are most active during and after sunset. You should consult with your GP/medical practitioner/travel clinic about the most appropriate malaria prophylactic medication to take for the regions you are visiting. In general the lowland regions Bhutan are considered malarial zones, while higher altitudes including central Bhutan including Paro, Thimphu, Punakha and Bumthang are not. Nepal is considered mainly low risk with prophylactics not normally required.
Yellow Fever: This disease is spread by infected mosquitoes that bite during the day. A Yellow Fever Certificate of vacinnation may be required as a condition of entry depending on which country you are arriving from, or that you have travelled or transitted through recently (including connecting flights with stopovers of over 12 hours). You can view this US CDC information about where the virus is present and follow the links to further information detailing which countries need you to have a Yellow Fever vaccination as part of their entry requirements. Please ensure you have this certificate with you and to hand if necessary. Please inform us of any pre-existing conditions such as diabetes or asthma and any prescription medicine you may be taking. We also need to know about any food allergies or physical disabilities that you may have. -
What currencies are required for this tour?
The local currency in Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NRs). There are a banks and several ATMs in Kathmandu where you can use a debit/credit card to withdraw cash (Visa, Mastercard), but these are not generally available out of Kathmandu or Pokhara. There are numerous money change shops in the main towns. Travellers cheques can be changed in some banks in Kathmandu and Pokhara, but not elsewhere.
You should ensure you have all the Nepalese rupees you think you will need before you leave for any trekking or visiting any more remote areas (including Bardia National Park). Try to obtain as many small denomination notes as possible, as higher value notes can be very hard to change in remote areas. You can pay with US Dollars cash in some places but should not rely on this.
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What should I know before I travel?
It is important when considering and preparing to travel anywhere in the world that you have a good understanding of the country you are visiting, its laws and customs, and the possible risks and situations that may occur. This includes specific risks related to your itinerary (eg. does it involve water & can you swim, are you fit enough for the activities included), as well as more general risks such as terrorism and natural disasters.
General details and links to more information about health risks, visa requirements, money, and travel insurance are given in these tour notes. We recommend that you re-read all these before your departure as well as the small print of your travel insurance policy so you know exactly what is covered and what is not.
You should take copies of your important travel documents with you and ideally also store them online securely as a backup. Make sure that you have given us your emergency contact details and told that person where and when you are travelling. Ensure you take enough money with you and that you have access to emergency funds.
Finally, you should read through and stay updated with the current official government travel advice for your destination. We are registered partners with the UK Foreign Office's 'Travel Aware' campaign which provides further useful and invaluable information. -
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).
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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.
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When is my balance payment due?
60 days prior to departure
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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
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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.
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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.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of encounters travel charges.
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