Bisket Jatra Festival & Nepalese New Year

Welcome to Kathmandu. Once you settle in hotel, dive into the buzz of this legendary district. It is a sensory labyrinth where prayer flags float above craft shops and lively cafes. Explore the narrow streets, breathe in the scent of incense and masala tea and observe the small shrines hidden in the inner courtyards.

Leave the valley for the wild west of Nepal. After a scenic flight to Nepalgunj, drive through authentic rural landscapes to reach Bardia National Park. More isolated and preserved than Chitwan, Bardia offers a raw immersion into nature. Upon arrival check into your lodge on the edge of the forest. Spend the end of the day walking through the surrounding Tharu villages. The absolute calm and warm air of the jungle mark a striking contrast with Kathmandu preparing you for an exploration in the heart of one of the last refuges of the Royal Bengal Tiger.

Dedicate your entire day to exploring the pristine wilderness of Bardia National Park, a premier sanctuary of biodiversity. Whether you choose an exhilarating jeep safari or a thrilling guided jungle walk, immerse yourself in the dense forest environment. Keep your eyes peeled and your camera ready as you actively search for the majestic Bengal tiger, the elusive grand one horned rhinoceros, and towering wild elephants roaming freely around.

Embark on a highly peaceful and deeply immersive river walk along the stunning banks of the mighty Karnali River. This tranquil excursion offers exceptional opportunities for nature photography and quiet reflection. Watch closely for fascinating marsh mugger crocodiles basking in the sun, beautifully vibrant migratory birds flying above, and large herds of wild animals carefully approaching the sandy riverbanks to drink and cool off this warm, sunny afternoon.

Bid farewell to the untamed wilderness and travel south from the dense jungle toward the historically sacred plains of Lumbini. This scenic overland drive transitions you from thrilling wildlife encounters to deep spiritual reflection. Upon arrival, you will explore the extraordinarily peaceful birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha. Experience profound tranquility as you wander past ancient monastic ruins, beautiful temples, and the sacred garden honoring our most revered spiritual master.

Take a scenic flight to Pokhara, enjoying breathtaking views of the Annapurna range. Upon arrival, embark on a short drive toward Durlung, a tranquil community village nestled in the hills. Experience authentic local hospitality, traditional homestay living, and panoramic mountain vistas. Stroll through terraced fields, interact with warm villagers, and immerse yourself in the rich culture and daily rural life of Nepal away from the busy tourist trails.

After breakfast in Durlung, drive back to the vibrant lakeside city of Pokhara. Spend the rest of the day at your own pace. Relax by Phewa Lake, enjoy a peaceful boat ride to Tal Barahi Temple, or stroll through the colorful streets lined with lively cafes and shops. For the adventurous, optional activities like paragliding or visiting the World Peace Pagoda offer stunning views before a relaxing lakeside evening.

Rise early for a drive to Sarangkot to witness a spectacular sunrise illuminating the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Watch the peaks glow golden before returning for breakfast. Afterward, head to Pokhara Airport for your short flight back to Kathmandu. Upon landing, transfer to your hotel or spend the remainder of the day sightseeing, shopping for souvenirs, or reflecting on your memorable journey through the Himalayas.

Plunge into the effervescence of Bhaktapur for the start of the Bisket Jatra festival. The highlight is the pulling of the massive chariot of the god Bhairav. Hundreds of locals pull on huge ropes in a friendly competition between the upper and lower quarters of the city. The energy is electric, the crowd is huge and dust flies to the rhythm of devotional chants. It is a raw and beautiful immersion into one of Nepal's oldest living traditions.

A day dedicated to the spiritual gems of the valley. Start with Patan, the city of arts famous for its metal sculptures and refined architecture. Then head to Pashupatinath the country's most sacred Hindu temple on the banks of the Bagmati River to observe cremation rituals and the devotion of sadhus. End with the giant stupa of Boudhanath, the center of Tibetan Buddhism. Join the pilgrims for the 'Kora' (circumambulation) around the white dome under the benevolent eyes of the Buddha.

After the festive chaos rediscover Bhaktapur in a calmer atmosphere. Explore the potters' square where hundreds of clay pots dry in the sun creating geometric patterns on the ground. Admire the Palace of 55 Windows and the Nyatapola Temple, the tallest in Nepal. Every street corner reveals intricate wood carvings and centuries old bricks. This museum city is perfect for understanding the ingenuity of Newar artisans and the harmony that reigns in this preserved medieval city.

Return to the intensity of the festival for the erection of the 'Linga' a giant wooden pole symbolizing victory over negative forces. The crowd gathers at Lyasinkhel to witness this perilous and symbolic act. The fall of the pole the next day will mark the official start of the Nepalese New Year. Chants cymbals and the enthusiasm of devotees create a mystical and vibrant atmosphere.

Today head out of the historical center to explore the outskirts where the impressive hand crafted brick factories are located. This unique industrial landscape offers a striking contrast to the carved temples. Observe the colossal work of the laborers shaping and stacking thousands of clay bricks under the sun. High chimneys belching smoke and the geometric structures of red bricks create an almost cinematic atmosphere. It is a poignant immersion into the local economy and manual labor that has built the Kathmandu Valley for centuries.

Live the climax of the festivities in Thimi and Bode. Witness the Sindur Jatra where participants drench each other in bright orange vermilion powder in an ecstatic atmosphere. The palanquins of the gods dance in a cloud of color symbolizing the victory of spring. In Bode witness the impressive tongue piercing ritual where a devotee has their tongue pierced by a metal rod to ensure village prosperity. It is a visceral, intense and exceptionally powerful cultural experience marking the end of the festival.

Your journey comes to an end. Depending on your flight time enjoy your last moments buying hand crafted souvenirs or tasting local flavors once more. Imbued with the colors of the festival, the peace of the mountains and the fervor of the temples you leave Nepal with everlasting memories.