Pilgrimages

​Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual journey through Nepal’s mystical heartland. This thoughtfully curated itinerary blends ancient heritage, sacred sites, vibrant festivals, and living shamanic traditions for an experience that promises to inspire, rejuvenate, and transform. From the moment you arrive in Kathmandu, you will be immersed in centuries-old wonders: marvel at the regal courtyards of Durbar Square, receive blessings from Nepal’s living goddess at the Kumari Temple, and wander through bustling bazaars where history comes alive at every turn.

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Witness the devotion of pilgrims at Pashupatinath, Nepal’s holiest Hindu temple, and feel the serenity of Boudhanath, the great Buddhist stupa alive with prayer flags and spinning wheels. Venture out to Sankhu and climb to the Vajra Yogini Temple, a mountaintop sanctuary shrouded in legend, before exploring the timeless artistry of Changunarayan, the valley's oldest temple.

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Retreat to Nagarkot, where the Himalayas embrace you at sunrise. Here, guided by the wisdom of Dhami-Jhankri shamans, you’ll participate in powerful ceremonies and rituals—an extraordinary opportunity to connect deeply with Nepal’s living spiritual traditions. The adventure continues across scenic hills to Haleshi Mahadeva, the mystical caves revered by Hindus, Buddhists, and Kirat alike. Experience authentic village hospitality, join rituals in the sacred caves, and share in the wisdom of local shamans. Celebrate Teej, the vibrant festival of women, in the medieval city of Bhaktapur—famed for its red-brick squares, artisans, and age-old customs. Feel the pulse of devotion, music, and dance as you receive blessings from the Kumari of Bhaktapur.

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Your pilgrimage concludes with sacred initiations at Budhanilkantha and a heartfelt farewell dinner, leaving you with memories, insights, and friendships that will last a lifetime.

Day 1 (September 2, 2026) : Arrival in Kathmandu

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu. Transfer to Apsara Boutique Hotel. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Nepali welcome dinner, followed by a welcome ceremony

Overnight at Apsara (D)

Day 2 : Old Kathmandu Sightseeing
Explore the historic heart of Kathmandu:

• Kathmandu Durbar Square: A UNESCO World Heritage Site at the heart of old Kathmandu, Durbar Square is a complex of palaces, courtyards, and temples built between the 12th and 18th centuries. It was the royal residence of the Malla kings and is renowned for its intricate woodwork, historic statues, and vibrant atmosphere.

• Kumari Temple: Located within Durbar Square, this small but significant temple houses the Kumari, Nepal’s living goddess. The Kumari is a young prepubescent girl chosen from the Newar community and worshipped as a manifestation of divine female energy. The temple’s ornate windows occasionally offer a glimpse of the living goddess.

• Kaalo Bhairung: This imposing stone statue in Durbar Square represents the fierce form of Lord Shiva. Worshipped for protection and justice, Kaalo Bhairav’s image is a revered site for locals, especially during festivals.

• Hanuman Dhoka: The old royal palace is named after the statue of Hanuman (the monkey god) at its entrance. The palace complex includes museums, courtyards, and intricately carved buildings that reflect centuries of royal history.

• Ason Bazaar: Ason is Kathmandu’s oldest and most bustling market square, filled with spice sellers, local produce, textiles, and traditional wares. It’s an excellent place to experience the city’s daily rhythm and vibrant street life.

• Kastamandap: A legendary wooden pavilion in the heart of the city, believed to have been constructed from a single tree. Kastamandap is not just an architectural marvel but also the namesake of Kathmandu itself.

Overnight at Apsara  (B, L & D)

Day 3 : Pilgrimage to Pashupatinath & Boudhanath

• Pashupatinath Temple (5 km, 20 min): A sacred Hindu temple on the banks of the Bagmati River. One of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva is located on the banks of the Bagmati River. The temple complex is a sprawling collection of shrines, ghats (cremation steps), and rituals. Non-Hindus can view the main temple from across the river and witness daily aarti ceremonies.

• Boudhanath Stupa (3 km, 10 min from Pashupatinath): A massive, spherical stupa and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Boudhanath is the centre of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. The stupa’s white dome and all-seeing eyes attract pilgrims and monks from across the Buddhist world, and the surrounding area is filled with monasteries and Tibetan shops.

Overnight at Apsara (B & D)

Day 4 : Sankhu, Vajrajogini & Changunarayan, Nagarkot

• Drive to Sankhu (17 km, 1 hr): An ancient Newari town. Visit Vajra Yogini Temple for prayers and ceremonies. An ancient Newari town northeast of Kathmandu, Sankhu is legendary for its traditional architecture and spiritual significance. The cobbled streets lead to hidden temples and shrines. Perched on a hill above Sankhu, this 17th-century temple is dedicated to Vajrayogini, a powerful Buddhist tantric goddess. The site is popular for meditation, rituals, and stunning views of the valley.

• Changunarayan Temple (12 km, 40 min): The oldest Hindu temple in the Kathmandu Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The oldest Hindu temple still in use in the Kathmandu Valley dates back to the 4th century. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and features remarkable stone, wood, and metal carvings.

• Nagarkot (20 km, 1 hr): Scenic hill station known for Himalayan views.

Overnight at a local homestay. (B, L & D)

Days 5-8 : Shamanic Retreat in Nagarkot
Participate in a four-day retreat with Dhami-Jhankri Shamans, engaging in rituals and learning about traditional healing practices. All meals and accommodation are included (B, L & D).

Day 9 : Drive to Haleshi Mahadeva Caves, Khotang

Drive to Haleshi (approx. 230 km, 8–10 hrs): Often called the "Pashupatinath of Eastern Nepal," Haleshi is a revered pilgrimage site for Hindus, Buddhists, and the Kirat community. The caves house shrines and natural rock formations believed to have deep spiritual power. The area is steeped in myth and offers a unique blend of religious traditions. In this cave, Padmashambhava had meditated on his way from Bengal to Nepal.

Overnight in a Homestay or a Lodge (B, L & D)

Day 10 : Explore Haleshi Mahadeva Caves
Full day exploring the sacred caves, participating in rituals, and experiencing the spiritual atmosphere.

Overnight in Haleshi (B, L & D)

Day 11 : Local Shaman Ceremonies
Meet with local shamans, observe and participate in ceremonies.

Overnight in Haleshi (B, L & D)

Day 12 : Drive Back to Bhaktapur

Drive to Bhaktapur (approx. 230 km, 8–10 hrs): Return to the Kathmandu Valley and stay overnight in Bhaktapur, a medieval city known for its architecture and culture. This medieval city is a living museum of Newar culture, famed for its well-preserved palaces, pagodas, and squares. Bhaktapur Durbar Square is the centrepiece, surrounded by artisan workshops and traditional homes. (B & L)

Day 13 : Teej Festival in Bhaktapur
A major women’s festival in Nepal, dedicated to the goddess Parvati. Women dress in red, fast, dance, and pray for the well-being of their families. In Bhaktapur, the festival is celebrated with music, religious rituals, and blessings from the local Kumari (B)

Day 14 : Patan & Swayambhunath, Return to Kathmandu

Drive to Patan (Lalitpur) (12 km, 30 min): Visit Patan Durbar Square, famed for art and architecture. Known for its artistic heritage, Patan’s Durbar Square features exquisite temples, courtyards, and the impressive Royal Palace. The city is famous for its metalwork, stone carvings, and vibrant festivals.

Swayambhunath Stupa (8 km, 25 min from Patan): Known as the Monkey Temple, a key Buddhist site. A hilltop stupa with sweeping views of the Kathmandu Valley, Swayambhunath is revered by both Buddhists and Hindus. Its golden spire, prayer wheels, and playful monkeys give it a unique character.

Return to Kathmandu (5 km, 20 min). Overnight at Apsara (B)

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Day 15 : Budhanilkantha & Initiation Rituals

• Visit Budhanilkantha (10 km, 30 min): See the remarkable reclining statue of Lord Vishnu in a pond at the foot of Shivapuri Hill. Home to a remarkable 5-meter-long statue of Lord Vishnu reclining on a bed of serpents, set in a pond at the base of Shivapuri Hill. This site is important for both religious worship and peaceful reflection.

• All day initiation rituals and a farewell dinner (B, L & D)

Day 16 (September 17) : END OF THE PILGRIMAGE
After breakfast, transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for onward journey. Departure (B)

Note: All distances and times are approximate and may vary based on traffic and road conditions.​

The minimum number of participants to run this group is 15, and the maximum is 22.