Extra Vaganza Nepal
Overview
Highlights
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Discover the historic heart of Kathmandu through traditional markets, hidden courtyards, heritage squares, temples and local craftsmanship. -
Spend time with a local Newari family and experience traditional cuisine, family stories, festivals and Kathmandu Valley culture in an intimate setting.
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Journey into the Annapurna region and enjoy peaceful mountain surroundings, village landscapes, organic farm experiences and farm-to-table dining.
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Explore the traditional Gurung settlement of Ghandruk, learn about its heritage and enjoy spectacular views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli and Machapuchare.
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Experience a scenic trek through the Himalayan landscape, descending towards the Modi River before continuing uphill to Landruk, followed by time to relax in Pokhara.
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Spend five nights in the remote Trans-Himalayan wilderness, surrounded by dramatic landscapes, ancient villages and Tibetan Buddhist heritage.
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Visit monasteries, meet Buddhist practitioners and local residents, and experience meditation and spiritual traditions in a more personal setting.
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Enjoy experiences tailored around weather and interests, including wilderness picnics, photography, horseback exploration, wellness treatments and private Himalayan-inspired dining.
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Explore Chitwan with expert naturalists and experience the Terai wilderness, with opportunities to see one-horned rhinoceros, deer, crocodilians and diverse birdlife. Discover Chitwan beyond wildlife through conservation-focused experiences, sunrise birdwatching and meaningful interaction with a local Tharu community.
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The journey allows time for spa treatments, wellness, relaxation and spontaneous encounters, creating a slower and more personal way to experience Nepal.
Itinerary
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, where guests are welcomed with personalized airport assistance before transferring by private luxury vehicle to their accommodation.
After settling into the Newari-inspired surroundings, the remainder of the afternoon is intentionally relaxed. Guests may enjoy the courtyard, spa, or simply recover from their international journey.
In the evening, meet the private guide for an informal introduction to Nepal before enjoying an elegant welcome dinner, presenting Nepal through regional dishes and traditional hospitality.
Begin early in Asan and Indra Chowk, when Kathmandu’s old trading quarters are coming to life. Walk through narrow lanes, hidden courtyards, spice markets and traditional neighborhoods before continuing to Kathmandu Durbar Square.
The emphasis today is not simply monuments but living Kathmandu.
Meet selected craftspeople specializing in woodcarving, metalwork, paubha/thangka painting or traditional decorative arts. Where possible, arrange a private demonstration and conversation with a master artisan.
Continue to Patan, one of the Kathmandu Valley’s great artistic centers, for an intimate exploration of heritage courtyards, temples and workshops.
Late afternoon brings a complete change of atmosphere at Boudhanath Stupa. Join pilgrims walking around the great stupa and participate in a privately arranged butter-lamp offering, followed by an informal conversation with a Buddhist practitioner or monk where available.
Return to the accommodation for the evening.
Begin with optional private yoga followed by a Himalayan singing-bowl wellness session.
Continue to Pashupatinath, Nepal’s most important Hindu temple complex, accompanied by a knowledgeable cultural guide who explains the symbolism, traditions and spiritual importance of the site.
Later, experience something far more personal: spend time with a local Newari family and discover the traditions behind Newari cuisine.
Rather than a conventional restaurant dinner, enjoy an intimate heritage dining experience, accompanied where appropriate by stories about family traditions, festivals and Kathmandu Valley culture.
The day concludes with the atmospheric evening Aarti at Pashupatinath.
Signature Experience: Private Newari cultural and culinary encounter
Take a morning flight to Pokhara, weather permitting, with magnificent Himalayan views possible en route.
Transfer privately to an intimate eco-retreat surrounded by village and farmland.
The afternoon is deliberately unscheduled. Explore the organic farm, relax surrounded by nature and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
As evening falls, enjoy a private farm-to-table dining experience featuring seasonal produce and locally inspired cuisine.
Travel by private vehicle toward Ghandruk, one of Nepal’s best-known Gurung settlements.
The journey itself becomes part of the experience as the landscape changes from valleys and farmland to dramatic mountain terrain.
Explore Ghandruk with a local host, learning about Gurung heritage, architecture and traditions.
Towards sunset, enjoy a private photography session as the evening light reaches Annapurna South, Hiunchuli and Machapuchare when conditions are clear.
Dinner and overnight in the best available boutique mountain accommodation.
Trek down to the Modi River and trek uphill to Landruk. Have lunch before returning privately to Pokhara.
The afternoon is devoted to relaxation before the journey into Mustang. Choose from spa treatments, gentle lakeside exploration, wellness activities or simply enjoying the surroundings.
For guests wanting something more adventurous, optional experiences may include private boating, cycling or other carefully selected activities depending on season and conditions.
Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom, subject to weather conditions, and transfer to the selected luxury accommodation in Lower Mustang.
The next five nights form the centerpiece of Extra Vaganza Nepal.
Rather than following a rigid sightseeing schedule, each day is curated according to weather, guest interests and local conditions.
Begin exploring the extraordinary Trans-Himalayan wilderness, with opportunities to discover remote villages, ancient monasteries, dramatic valleys and landscapes shaped by centuries of Tibetan Buddhist culture.
Continue the Lower Mustang experience through privately guided monastery and village explorations.
Meet local Buddhist practitioners where possible and experience meditation or spiritual encounters that offer a deeper understanding of the region’s traditions.
Depending on conditions and suitability, experiences may include horseback exploration, private photography excursions and visits with local residents and craftspeople.
The day remains flexible so that activities can be adapted to weather, local conditions and guest interests.
Explore Mustang’s remarkable geological landscapes and dramatic Himalayan surroundings.
Enjoy a slower pace with opportunities for high-altitude wellness experiences, restorative treatments and time to appreciate the surrounding wilderness.
A scenic wilderness picnic may be arranged at a suitable location, allowing guests to experience the extraordinary landscape away from conventional sightseeing.
The day can also include private photography opportunities according to weather and accessibility.
Continue discovering Lower Mustang through experiences selected around the guests’ interests and local conditions.
Spend time with local communities and craftspeople, explore the surrounding villages or enjoy another privately guided cultural experience.
The evening may feature a private dinner inspired by Himalayan and Tibetan culinary traditions.
The itinerary intentionally allows space to enjoy the destination rather than filling every hour with activities.
One day is intentionally kept slower, allowing guests to enjoy the extraordinary surroundings rather than following a packed sightseeing schedule.
Relax, enjoy restorative treatments, take in the mountain landscape or choose a gentle activity according to personal preference.
At a spectacular location selected according to weather and accessibility, create a private wilderness experience exclusively for the guests; perhaps a beautifully prepared Himalayan picnic, meditation experience or intimate sunset gathering surrounded by Mustang’s immense landscape.
Leave the high-altitude landscapes of Mustang and travel towards the subtropical plains of Chitwan, using the most appropriate combination of flights and private transfers according to operating schedules and weather.
Arrive at a luxury safari retreat overlooking the landscapes bordering Chitwan National Park.
Enjoy the afternoon at leisure before meeting the lodge’s naturalist for an introduction to the wildlife and ecosystems of the Terai.
Rise early for a privately guided wildlife experience in and around Chitwan National Park, following the permitted safari program.
The region supports greater one-horned rhinoceros, deer, crocodilians, extraordinary birdlife and, with considerable luck, Bengal tiger.
Return for breakfast and relaxation.
Later, venture out again with an expert naturalist for another wildlife experience adapted to seasonal conditions.
Conclude the day with an elegant private sundowner-style experience overlooking the river or surrounding landscape.
Begin with optional sunrise birdwatching accompanied by a specialist naturalist.
Today explores another side of Chitwan: conservation and community.
Join a conservation-focused briefing to understand the work undertaken to protect wildlife and habitat.
Later, visit a local Tharu community with an emphasis on meaningful interaction rather than staged tourism.
Depending on river and seasonal conditions, a guided canoe experience may also be incorporated.
Return for spa time and a relaxed final evening in the jungle.
Transfer to Bharatpur Airport and fly to Kathmandu, subject to flight operations.
Private transfer to the accommodation.
The remainder of the afternoon is free for spa treatments, relaxation or individually curated shopping appointments with selected designers, jewelers, textile specialists and craftspeople.
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast and final morning at leisure.
At the appropriate time, a private vehicle and airport representative provide a seamless transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for the onward international flight.
Guests leave Nepal not simply having visited the country, but having experienced its people, spirituality, wilderness and traditions through encounters created especially for them
Quick Enquiry
Inclusions
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15 nights accommodation in carefully selected luxury hotels, boutique mountain lodges and luxury safari retreats.
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Daily breakfast, with full-board meals included during the Chitwan stay as specified in the itinerary.
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All private airport transfers and ground transportation by luxury private vehicle with experienced drivers.
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Domestic flights as specified in the itinerary, subject to weather and flight operations.
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Personalized airport assistance on arrival and departure.
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Private English-speaking guides, local hosts and specialist naturalists as required throughout the journey.
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Private cultural and heritage experiences in Kathmandu, including guided visits to major heritage sites.
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Private Newari cultural and culinary experience, including the scheduled family hospitality and heritage dining experience.
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Guided Ghandruk and Landruk experiences, including the scheduled trekking and village exploration.
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Five-night curated Lower Mustang experience with monastery and village explorations, cultural encounters, wellness and wilderness experiences.
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Private wildlife, conservation and community experiences in and around Chitwan National Park.
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Selected private dining and wellness experiences specifically mentioned in the confirmed itinerary.
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Applicable entrance fees, permits, government taxes and service charges for services specifically included in the confirmed itinerary.
Exclusions
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International airfare to and from Nepal.
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Nepal entry visa fees.
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Passport, visa, vaccination or other personal travel-document expenses.
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International airport taxes where charged separately.
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Travel, medical, evacuation and trip-cancellation insurance.
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Meals not specifically mentioned as included.
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Beverages, minibar and personal refreshments unless specified.
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Laundry, telephone calls, room service and other personal hotel expenses.
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Spa treatments, massages and wellness programs unless specifically included.
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Personal shopping, souvenirs and commissioned artwork.
Dos
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Respect Local Customs and Traditions: Nepal is home to diverse ethnic groups with deep-rooted cultural practices. Familiarize yourself with these customs to show respect. For example, greeting people with a traditional “Namaste” (pressing your palms together with a slight bow) is appreciated. Observing local etiquette, such as removing your hat when entering a temple, reflects cultural sensitivity.
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Dress Modestly: Modesty in clothing is valued, especially in rural areas and religious sites. Wearing clothes that cover your shoulders and knees is advisable. This not only shows respect but also helps you blend in with the local environment, avoiding unwanted attention.
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Remove Shoes at Religious Sites and Homes: It is customary in Nepal to remove your shoes before entering temples, monasteries, and private residences. This practice maintains cleanliness and shows reverence. Carrying a pair of clean socks or slip-on shoes can make this easier.
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Practice Responsible Tourism: Nepal’s natural beauty is fragile. Avoid littering and use designated trails during treks to protect the environment. Carry reusable water bottles to reduce plastic waste. Supporting local businesses and artisans helps sustain the community economically.
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Learn Basic Nepali Phrases: Simple greetings and polite expressions such as “Namaste” (hello), “Dhanyabad” (thank you), and “Kripaya” (please) create positive interactions. Locals appreciate when visitors make an effort to speak their language, even if only a few words.
Dont’s
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Respect Local Customs and Traditions: Nepal is home to diverse ethnic groups with deep-rooted cultural practices. Familiarize yourself with these customs to show respect. For example, greeting people with a traditional “Namaste” (pressing your palms together with a slight bow) is appreciated. Observing local etiquette, such as removing your hat when entering a temple, reflects cultural sensitivity.
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Avoid Public Displays of Affection: Nepali society tends to be conservative. Public displays of affection such as kissing or hugging are generally frowned upon, especially in rural areas and near religious sites. Maintaining decorum in public spaces is respectful.
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Do Not Use Your Left Hand for Eating or Handing Items: In Nepali culture, the left hand is traditionally considered unclean because it is used for personal hygiene. Always use your right hand when eating, giving, or receiving items to avoid causing offense.
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Refrain from Giving Money or Sweets to Street Children: Although it may seem kind, giving money or sweets to children begging on the streets can encourage dependency and discourage school attendance. Instead, support reputable local charities focused on education and welfare.
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Respect Local Customs During Festivals: Nepal hosts many vibrant festivals throughout the year, such as Dashain and Tihar. Participate respectfully by observing local traditions and following guidance from community members. Avoid disruptive behavior that might spoil the festive spirit.
Prohibited Items in Nepal:
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Illegal drugs and narcotics: All forms of illegal substances such as heroin, cocaine, methamphetamines, cannabis, and synthetic drugs are strictly banned. Possession, trafficking, or use of these drugs can lead to heavy fines, imprisonment, or even capital punishment in severe cases.
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Firearms, ammunition, and explosives: Importing or possessing guns, rifles, ammunition, bombs, explosives, and fireworks without explicit government authorization is illegal. This includes replicas and parts of weapons, aimed at preventing violence and maintaining public safety.
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Pornographic and obscene materials: Materials considered obscene or pornographic, including magazines, videos, DVDs, and digital content, are prohibited. The government restricts these to uphold cultural and moral standards.
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Counterfeit goods: Fake currency, pirated software, counterfeit branded products (clothing, electronics, accessories) are banned. Customs actively intercepts such items to protect consumers and legitimate businesses.
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Endangered wildlife and plant products: Items made from protected species such as ivory, rhino horns, tiger skins, exotic woods, and animal derivatives are illegal under national laws and international treaties like CITES. This protects biodiversity and prevents illegal wildlife trade.
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Hazardous chemicals: Toxic, flammable, radioactive, or otherwise dangerous chemicals require special permits. Unauthorized import or possession is prohibited to avoid environmental damage and public health risks.
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Materials promoting terrorism or violence: Any publications, digital content, or items that incite terrorism, violence, hate speech, or subversion against the state are banned to maintain law and order.
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Protected religious and cultural artifacts: Certain antiques, religious statues, manuscripts, and cultural relics are protected by law. Unauthorized export or import is forbidden to preserve Nepal’s cultural heritage.
Restricted Items in Nepal:
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Alcoholic beverages and tobacco: Travelers may bring limited quantities for personal use, subject to customs duties and declaration. Commercial import requires licenses, excise tax compliance, and adherence to age restrictions.
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Medicines and pharmaceuticals: Some medicines require prescriptions and import permits, especially controlled substances and psychotropic drugs. Travelers must carry prescriptions and declare medicines at customs to avoid confiscation.
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Drones and unmanned aerial vehicles: Import and operation of drones require prior approval from the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal. Regulations govern flight zones, privacy, and safety to prevent misuse.
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Cultural antiques and archaeological artifacts: Importing or exporting antiques and archaeological items requires government permits to prevent illegal trafficking and protect national heritage.
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Food, plants, seeds, and animal products: These are subject to quarantine and import restrictions to prevent the introduction of pests, diseases, and invasive species. Customs may confiscate prohibited agricultural products.
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Large sums of currency: Amounts exceeding approximately USD 5,000 or equivalent must be declared at customs to prevent money laundering and illegal financial transactions.
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Electronic devices: Certain communication equipment, encryption tools, and radio transmitters require licenses or government approval before import or use to ensure compliance with national security and communication regulations.
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