Nepal doesn’t have to be a trek. Of course, you go to see the Himalayas, their snow-capped peaks painted with sun. But best of all, Nepal offers you truly unique cultural and nature experiences, with levels of comfort that exceed your expectations. On this stunning trip, you’ll explore Kathmandu and Bhaktapur, the country’s regal and religious capitals. But you’ll also walk amid terraced rice paddies, chat with farmers, and explore tiny villages overlooked by splendid temples. For an unforgettable wildlife adventure, you’ll strike out on a safari in search of the one-horned rhinoceros in the riverside jungle of Chitwan National Park. Your expert fulltime local guide makes the introductions, explains the history and cultural traditions, and helps you understand what life is like in the shadow of those awe-inspiring peaks. Nepal is spiritual and spirited, a lively and serene land that’s even more than you have imagined.

DAYS 1-2 — KATHMANDU
After meeting in Kathmandu, you’ll strike out for a walk in the city with your local guide. Along the way, you’ll explore the Asan Bazaar, and marvel at the rich collection of traditional buildings in Durbar Square. You’ll also take in the views from the Monkey Temple and enjoy a cooking instruction with a local chef. A walk in the Eastern Valley starts at a 1,500-year-old temple and winds through farmlands and villages ending at Nagarkot, the best spot for viewing the expanse of the Himalayas.

DAYS 3-5 — POKHARA
Your immersion in Nepali life continues with an exploration of the well-preserved royal city of Bhaktapur, where you see the 55-Window Palace and meet the artisans in Pottery Square. From Pokhara, you’ll walk with farmers and dzo and stop in at a small village school to meet the students and teachers.

One morning, you’ll rise early to witness sunrise on the Himalayas, a truly magnificent experience. Later you’ll walk from the shimmering white World Peace Pagoda through the lush Queen’s forest to Phewa Lake where a boat ride awaits.

DAYS 6-8 – CHITWAN NATIONAL FOREST
A brief morning flight takes you to Chitwan, the vast wildlife reserve that’s one of the best in Asia. You’ll meet mahouts and maybe have a chance to interact with their elephants. During a canoe ride on the Rapti river, you may spot crocodiles and storks before watching the sun set over the Himalayan foothills.

The one-horned rhino is the most important animal species in the herd. On a safari today, you’ll have an excellent opportunity to spot them in their habitat, along with barking deer, peacocks and other wildlife. Later, the indigenous Tharu people will welcome you into their forest village where you’ll have a chance to experience their distinctive way of life. The day ends with a delicious Nepali barbecue by the swimming pool at your lodge in Chitwan. Departure is the following morning.