Holi Festival Photography Tour

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu our representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. In the late afternoon embark on your first photography session at Swayambhunath Stupa. Capture golden hour light illuminating the ancient eyes of Buddha fluttering prayer flags and panoramic views over Kathmandu Valley. In the evening gather for a trip briefing and welcome dinner.

Begin with an early morning street photography walk through the narrow sensory rich alleys of Asan and Indra Chowk capturing merchants spice markets and morning worship. Afterwards head to Kathmandu Durbar Square to photograph the ceremonial erection of the Chir a tall wooden pole decorated with colorful cloth swatches that officially signals the arrival of Fagu Purnima (Holi).

Spend the morning at Pashupatinath Temple Nepal's most revered Hindu sanctuary along the Bagmati River. Photograph ascetics and holy sadhus with painted faces, ceremonial tridents and traditional attire. In the afternoon visit Boudhanath Stupa one of the world's largest spherical stupas photographing Tibetan monks and devotees performing circumambulations (kora) in warm afternoon light.

Today is the peak celebration of Holi in the Kathmandu Valley! Armed with camera protective covers, we head into Kathmandu Durbar Square and Patan Durbar Square. Immerse yourself in the joyful chaos as clouds of red vermillion turquoise and yellow powders fill the air against 15th century woodcarvings and stone temples. Capture drummers energetic dance crowds and spontaneous street celebrations throughout the day.

Take a short, scenic flight from Kathmandu to Janakpur, the cultural heart of the Terai region. Upon arrival, dive straight into the vibrant energy of the Terai Holi celebration. Unlike the hilly regions, Holi here is a grand festival filled with traditional music, folk dances, and colorful street processions. Smear vibrant colored powders with welcoming locals and experience the rich Maithil culture. Later, visit the stunning Ram Janaki Temple, beautifully illuminated for the festive evening.

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Chitwan National Park, transitioning from the cultural plains of Janakpur to lush, subtropical jungles. The journey offers beautiful glimpses of rural Nepalese life, winding rivers, and terraced landscapes. Upon arriving at your jungle lodge, enjoy a warm welcome and a brief orientation. Spend the late afternoon relaxing by the Rapti River, watching a mesmerizing sunset before enjoying a traditional Tharu cultural dance performance in the warm evening.

Dive into the heart of Chitwan National Park for an exhilarating day of wildlife encounters. Start with an early morning jeep safari or elephant grass walk to spot the rare one-horned rhinoceros, various deer species, and perhaps the elusive Royal Bengal tiger. Glide down the Rapti River in a traditional dugout canoe, keeping an eye out for mugger crocodiles and vibrant birdlife. Return to your lodge for a peaceful evening immersed in nature's relaxing sounds.

Bid farewell to the jungle and enjoy a scenic drive to Pokhara, nestled beside Phewa Lake beneath the Annapurna range. After checking into your lakeside hotel, head up to the magnificent World Peace Pagoda for panoramic views of the mountains and city. Next, visit the towering Pumdikot Shiva Statue, a spectacular new landmark offering breathtaking viewpoints. Conclude your day with a relaxing stroll along the vibrant lakeside, enjoying the cool, refreshing evening mountain lake breeze.

Wake up early for a drive to Sarangkot viewpoint to photograph sunrise over the Annapurna Massif and the iconic summit of Machhapuchhare (Fishtail). After breakfast enjoy a peaceful boat ride across Phewa Lake to Tal Barahi Temple. In the afternoon take a return flight to Kathmandu and enjoy a farewell celebration dinner with the group.

Spend the day exploring two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Start at Bhaktapur Durbar Square to admire magnificent medieval Newari architecture, including the 55-Window Palace, Vatsala Temple, and the soaring Nyatapola Temple. Afterwards, drive to Changu Narayan, Nepal’s oldest ancient Hindu temple, perched atop a ridge. Here, you'll marvel at 5th-century stone carvings, intricate wood sculptures, and rich historic inscriptions before returning with a deeper appreciation of the Valley's cultural heritage.

Enjoy a relaxed final breakfast at your hotel. Take advantage of free morning hours to pick up last minute Nepalese handicrafts tea or souvenirs. Our representative will arrange a private airport transfer three hours prior to your scheduled flight bidding you farewell after an unforgettable Holi photography journey.