Trip Overview
Eastern Nepal remains a hidden gem, largely undiscovered by tourists and blessed with pristine, untouched nature. Beyond the bustling Kathmandu valley lie villages and towns waiting to be explored. These uncharted territories offer contrasting landscapes, unique lifestyles, and opportunities to connect with remote communities, providing a haven for those seeking authentic experiences.
Dhankuta, a picturesque hill town, boasts stunning views of Himalayan peaks and is renowned for its warm hospitality and rural way of life. Visitors can explore Cholung Park, showcasing traditional Limbu community houses, and immerse themselves in the indigenous Aathpahariya culture in Khambela and Sipting, experiencing Dhol Nach performances and traditional snacks.
Janakpur, founded atop ancient Videha dynasty ruins, is a revered religious center with its magnificent Janaki Mandir dedicated to Goddess Sita. Here, travelers can marvel at stunning Hindu-Koiri Nepali architecture, delve into Mithila art, and savor local cuisines at Mithila Thali by Chef Santosh Shah from Master Chef.
As you journey through the tranquil landscapes, immerse yourself in the rhythms of rural life, where time seems to slow down amidst the mountain air. Engage in heartfelt conversations with locals, gaining insight into their traditions, beliefs, and daily routines, deepening your connection to the communities you encounter. This trek offers a physical adventure and a profound cultural experience that leaves a lasting imprint on the soul.
Engage with local communities and adopt sustainable practices to better understand climate action.
Witness Water Conservation Efforts and learn how you can be part of the solution.
Enjoy the stunning views and landscape while driving to the eastern part of Nepal.
Explore the unique architecture of the orange town through a guided tour.
Observe the traditional Limbu houses at Cholung Park.
Enjoy a cultural feast and unique cuisine with the Aathpahariya community.
KATHMANDU, Arrival
Activities : International Airport Arrival Transfer, Sound Healing and Dinner at Avata Wellness
Accommodation : Traditional Comfort or Similar
Meals Included : Dinner
Welcome to Nepal!! On your arrival at the airport in Kathmandu, you will be received with a placard having your name in the arrival hall. The luggage will be loaded in the car and you will be transferred to the hotel in Kathmandu. Traditional comfort is a Travellife-certified Hotel with an ambience curated to reflect the traditions of Nepal.
After check-in, you can take the time to freshen up before you move to Avata, for a sound healing session to recover from the jet lag. Avata is one of the best wellness centers in Kathmandu with a serene environment, trained practitioners and instructors.
Sound healing is an ancient practice that uses vibrations from instruments like singing bowls, gongs, and chants to promote well-being. Rooted in Himalayan and Tibetan traditions, it aims to restore balance by harmonizing the body’s energy centers.
The sound healing is followed by a healthy dinner at Nourish by Avata.
Thereafter, you will be transferred back to your hotel.
DHANKUTA
Activities : Flight to Biratnagar, Drive to Dhankuta, Town Walk
Drive Duration : 3-4 hours approx.
Accommodation : Hotel Murchunga International or Similar
Meals Included : Breakfast
Following breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Biratnagar. On arrival at Biratnagar Airport, a vehicle will be ready to transfer you to Dhankuta. Dhankuta is a charming hill town in eastern Nepal known for its rich mix of ethnic communities, traditional houses, and vibrant local markets. Surrounded by tea gardens and lush hills, it offers a peaceful escape with panoramic views of the Himalayas. The area is also a cultural gateway to eastern Nepal, where visitors can experience authentic Rai and Limbu heritage.
Once you are checked in at the Hotel Murchunga, which is located close to the main bazaar area, take a brief orientation walk around your accommodation to get to know your surroundings better. Afterwards, you will have time to yourself to rest for the day.
DHANKUTA
Activities : Chuliban- Khambela Hike, Kachide Farm to Table Experience
Hike Duration 3-3.5 hours approx.
Accommodation : Hotel Murchunga International or Similar
Meals Included : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, start your day with a short drive to Chuliban- a scenic hill where you can observe Dhankuta, then hike onwards to Khambela. On the way you will be visiting a view tower where a great view of the Tamor and the Kanchenjunga ranges can be seen on a clear day. You will also find scattered houses along the way, which all belong to the families of the indigenous Aathpahariya community.
Khambela, a hillside village in Dhankuta, is home to the indigenous Aathpahariya community, offering visitors traditional organic meals served on leaf plates and showcasing the effort to sustainable practices, such as rainwater harvesting and spring revival, which have significantly improved local livelihoods.
On arrival, you will be welcomed by the Aathpahariya community at Khambela, followed by a warm local lunch while getting to know them better. After a short excursion, you will drive back to Dhankuta for a visit to Kachidein the early evening for a farm-to-table experience. Pick your own ingredients directly from the nearby garden and prepare your dinner for the night together with the hosts. The hosts will guide you to make dishes from scratch
DHANKUTA
Activities : Orange Town Walk, Transfer to Sipting, Local Activities
Drive Duration : 30 mins approx.
Walk Duration : 1.5- 2 hours approx.
Accommodation : Sipting Community Homestay [shift to hotel on request]
Meals Included : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, you will be going for a walk to observe the orange city, architecture of the Newari and Aathpahariya communities and the nearby Ganesh Temple and Nishan Temple which holds a significant religious importance for locals and visitors alike. During this walk, you will also learn about local efforts to preserve heritage through architecture and traditions, and how the diverse ethnic community has come together to preserve their cultures.
Later in the day, you will be travelling to Sipting Community Homestay of the Aathpahariya community, and you will experience being welcomed in their local tradition. While at Sipting, you can find traditional stone and wood houses surrounded by lush farming lands and explore the unique culture and lifestyle of the Aathpahariya community along with their unique cuisine. You will get to experience staying in rural village houses- with simple beds, washroom areas outside of the house and often equipped with a squat washrooms.
DHANKUTA
Activities : Sunrise at Dhoje Danda, Cultural Feast at Sipting
Walk Duration : 30 mins approx
Accommodation : Sipting Community Homestay [shift to hotel on request]
Meals Included : Lunch, Dinner
Wake up early in the morning where you will be going for an easy short walk to Dhoje Danda. Renowned for its spectacular sunrises and sunsets, this tranquil hilltop provides a serene escape amidst the natural beauty of eastern Nepal. On a clear day, you will be able to see the Makalu, Kumbhakarna and Kanchenjunga ranges from the hill top. You will be ascending steep uphill stairs before you reach the viewpoint of the sunrise. After breakfast, you will be driving to Cholung Park- which celebrates the rich history and heritage of Limbu community. You will see a lot of the Limbu community’s traditional houses, and the small museum displays ancient manuscripts, coins, and tools.
After a short excursion, you will be returning to Sipting, where you will be joining in Dhol Nach showcased by the Aathpahariya community in Sipting Community Homestay. You will end the day with a cultural dinner that the locals have prepared, featuring their traditional snacks and drinks.
JANAKPUR
Activities : Drive to Janakpur, Dinner at Mithila Thali
Hike Duration : 8-9 hrs approx.
Accommodation : Mithila Yatri Niwas or Similar
Meals Included : Breakfast, Dinner
Today you will be travelling to Janakpur, where the Janaki Temple and Mithila Art is a massive highlight. It is sacred city famed as the birthplace of Goddess Sita, and its serene ponds, bustling bazaars, and strong Maithili culture make it a unique blend of devotion and tradition. Once you reach Janakpur, you will be checking in at the hotel. and end your day with traditional cuisine in Mithila Thali by Chef Santosh Shah, who was declared the winner of MasterChef: The Professionals re-match in 2021.
KATHMANDU
Activities : Janaki Temple Visit and Mithila Painting, Flight to Kathmandu
Accommodation : Traditional Comfort or Similar
Meals Included : Breakfast
Following breakfast, experience Mithila Art, where intricate designs, vibrant colours and distinctive art techniques grab the attention of the viewers from afar with the artisans. This ancient folk art features intricate geometric patterns, natural motifs, and mythological narratives painted with colours prepared by the artisans from a few base colours.
Visit the Janaki Temple afterwards, which showcases a blend of Hindu and Mughal styles dedicated to Goddess Sita that stands as an icon of religious and cultural significance at Janakpur. Witness the temple's dazzling and intricate carvings immersing in Janakpur's spiritual heartbeat and rich Maithili heritage.
You will be transferred to Janakpur Airport for your flight to Kathmandu an hour before the boarding time. Thereafter, you will be transferred to the Hotel in Kathmandu and will have the remaining day to explore or rest.
DEPARTURE
Activities : Departure
Meals Included : Breakfast
On your final day in Nepal, you will be picked up from your hotel three hours before your flight. Please make sure to double-check your belongings—especially your passport and travel documents—before leaving.
Thank you for journeying with us and taking the time to explore Nepal’s culture, communities, and natural beauty. If you’re considering extending your stay, we’re happy to recommend a few post-trip experiences to help you continue your adventure in a meaningful way. Safe travels, and we hope to welcome you back again someday!