Arrive at Kathmandu and, if time permits, visit Kathmandu Durbar (“Palace”) Square. The former centre of royal power in Nepal, the sqaure contains a “museum” of historic temples and home to the Kumari Devi, the living goddess of the city who can regularly be seen from the Kumari Ghar next door. Shop for intricate glass beads at the Pote Bazaar in Indrachowk before touring the vibrant bazaars of Ason by rickshaw as you “travel like a local” through the side streets and alleys of Kathmandu. 

Meet a heritage expert in Patan, who will show you around the majestic Patan Durbar Square as he briefs you about heritage restoration efforts following the 2015 Nepal Earthquake. Make momos for lunch at a cooking class before meeting the city’s master craftsmen, who draw on millennia-old techniques to make traditional handicrafts. Explore the ancient city of Kiritupur – a vibrant university town and the cradle of Newari culture. Tonight, enjoy a spectacular cultural and traditional show and learn more about the culture of Nepal’s different ethnic groups.  

Set off on the scenic Peace Stupa Hike from the dam at the end of Phewa Lake. Climb the forested Raniban Hill and make pilgrimage to the lovely Shanti Stupa (Peace Stupa), where you can enjoy a breath-taking view of the lake and the surrounding mountains. After lunch at a restaurant on the shore of Phewa Lake, sail to the sacred Barahi Temple – a key religious site – where you can watch devotees pray to the goddess Barahi.

Embark on a safari in one of Asia’s finest national parks. Set off on a 4×4 excursion or a safari walk through the jungle or crouch behind machans (blinds) and photograph the park’s rich wildlife unseen by the animals. Experienced naturalists will share more about the park’s biodiversity and help you spot rhinos, monkeys, deer and if you are lucky, tigers and leopards. End your day with a relaxing sundowner as you watch the sun set across the wilderness.

After a breakfast walk around the hotel, reconnect with your inner being as you make use of the hotel’s comprehensive range of wellness treatments. Practice yoga and meditation against the backdrop of rolling green hills and the mighty Himalayas and have a short consultation with your very own Ayurdevic doctor. Engage in artistic therapy as you learn the art of pottery and practice art and painting to guide your soul towards inner peace.