Family Footprints in Nepal

Your journey of Family Footprints in Nepal begins with a warm welcome at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. As you drive to your hotel, the bustling charm of Nepal’s capital greets you with colorful prayer flags, the sound of temple bells, and smiles from every corner. The rest of the day is yours to relax, acclimatize, and explore the nearby Thamel area, known for its lively atmosphere, family-friendly cafés, and music shops. It’s the perfect gentle beginning to an unforgettable family journey.

In the evening, we will enjoy a Nepali dinner accompanied by a local Musician who performed on the Sarangi and Madal—iconic instruments of Nepalese heritage. This immersive experience offers a glimpse into Nepal’s rich musical traditions, allowing us to learn about the culture, instruments, and stories behind the music. The musician is invited to enjoy the meal with you, so you have plenty of time to talk about their daily life and Nepal’s music traditions.

Wake up in the heart of ancient Nepal. Today your family explores the spiritual and cultural gems of Kathmandu. First, you’ll visit Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), where children delight in watching monkeys swing through trees while adults admire panoramic city views. Later, step into the artistry of Patan Durbar Square, where intricately carved temples and royal courtyards capture the timeless soul of Nepal. In the afternoon break for lunch in a local restaurant to support this family business.

A highlight of your Family Footprints in Nepal experience awaits in the afternoon: a 30-minute traditional Nepali music class. Children — and curious parents too — will be introduced to traditional Nepali instruments like the Madal and Sarangi, guided by a warm and knowledgeable local musician. With every beat and note, your child will not only discover rhythm but also connect with a vibrant piece of Nepal’s cultural heritage. To make the experience even more meaningful, we’ll invite local children to join the session, creating lasting memories and a shared joy for everyone involved.
Please note: we can only invite local children on non-school days. On other days, we will donate to the music school on your behalf, which will use the money to provide free music classes to local children.

Today is one of the most touching days of Family Footprints in Nepal, as your family steps into the life of local Nepali students. After breakfast, take a scenic one-hour drive to a rural school where your children will join local students in class activities, sharing songs, laughter, and stories. This 2 hrs heartwarming exchange builds global friendships and helps kids gain a deeper appreciation for different ways of life. We will have Local lunch with the students as part of a Trekking Team Group social project.

On the return to Kathmandu, you’ll stop at Bouddhanath Stupa, one of the largest and most peaceful Buddhist monuments in the world. Light butter lamps, spin prayer wheels, and meet a Lama (monk) and take blessing from them who shares the essence of Buddhism in a way children can truly connect with. It’s a soul-soothing experience, filled with light, learning, and reflection. For the blessing, we will provide the monk with a donation on your behalf.

Your Family Footprints in Nepal journey now heads south to the jungles of Chitwan after breakfast in the hotel. The drive through hills and river valleys is scenic and relaxing, offering glimpses of rural Nepal. The journey takes about 6 Hrs. Upon arrival at your jungle lodge, settle into a lush, green world teeming with life and enjoy lunch.

In the afternoon, visit a traditional Tharu village, where your children will learn how this indigenous community lives in harmony with the jungle.

Later, depending on the season, you’ll have the chance to try your hand at traditional fishing or farming alongside local villagers. These age-old practices offer a fascinating glimpse into how communities have lived and worked for centuries — and they’re especially exciting and educational for children.

Today is all about wild adventure. Your family will embark on a thrilling jeep safari through Chitwan National Park, one of Asia’s best-preserved natural habitats. Guided by a wildlife expert, you may spot one-horned rhinos, deer, monkeys, wild boar, and with a bit of luck—tigers!

Return to Hotel and enjoy Lunch.

Later, enjoy a peaceful canoe ride on the Rapti River, gliding past crocodiles basking on the banks and colorful birds overhead. These real-life “National Geographic” moments inspire awe and spark curiosity in every child. After a day full of adventure, return to your lodge for stories by the fire and a jungle sunset. Note: Jungle activities may be scheduled earlier or later depending on the weather, park regulations, and availability.

After breakfast, leave the jungle behind and drive about five hours to the beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara, often called the gateway to the Himalayas. This laid-back town is a breath of fresh air—literally—with its clean mountain breezes and serene lakes.

Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at a lakeside restaurant with beautiful views of Phewa Lake. Spend the afternoon unwinding—take a peaceful stroll along the lake at sunset, relax by the water, or simply take in the breathtaking panorama of the Annapurna mountains. Pokhara offers the perfect setting to pause, reflect, and fully embrace the natural beauty of your Family Footprints in Nepal adventure.

Today introduces your family to Nepal’s legendary trekking culture in a way that’s safe and joyful for children. After a short drive to Kande, begin your 1.5 to 2-hour trek to Australian Camp, a stunning hilltop village surrounded by lush forests and panoramic views of the Himalayas.

Children will love walking through nature, spotting birds, and reaching the top to see snow-capped peaks like Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain). At night, enjoy cozy lodge comfort, a hearty meal, and the clear mountain sky filled with stars.

Wake up to sunrise over the Himalayas before setting off on a scenic 2.5 -hour trek to Astam Village, an eco-friendly hilltop community. The trail is peaceful, with time to pause, play, and take in the views.

In the afternoon, enjoy a fun and delicious momo cooking class. Learn to mix, stuff, and shape these tasty dumplings—a favorite Nepali snack. Children take pride in making (and eating!) their own creations. It’s a warm, joyful cultural exchange that turns food into memory. Astam’s slow pace and natural beauty make this a perfect place for families to connect.

After breakfast, take a gentle 1.5-hour walk downhill to the road, then drive back to Pokhara. On the way we can collect some trash to help keep Nepal’s nature clean. We will provide you with bags, gloves and pickup sticks and we bring back the trash to your hotel in Pokhara.

The rest of the day is free for rest, lakeside strolls, or picking up souvenirs at the local market made by handicapped people.

You might also enjoy a short boat ride on Phewa Lake to its center, where you’ll find a small island temple dedicated to Goddess Tal Barahi—a serene and sacred spot surrounded by the tranquil waters. It’s a restful and happy day in the middle of your Family Footprints in Nepal journey—time to unwind and reflect.

After breakfast, we’ll drive to Bandipur, a charming hilltop village about two hours away. Known for its stunning Himalayan views and traditional Newari architecture, Bandipur offers a peaceful and authentic experience.

We’ll stay in a cozy guesthouse with just a few rooms, run by the local Rotary Club. All profits from the lodge go directly to support the nearby school, making your stay meaningful as well as comfortable.

In the evening, take time to soak in the relaxed atmosphere of this picturesque town—sip tea while chatting with locals, wander through the beautifully preserved streets, and enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant serving traditional Newari cuisine.

After breakfast, we’ll drive to Bhaktapur, a journey of approximately six hours. Along the way, we’ll stop for lunch and a tea break to relax and enjoy the scenery. Upon arrival in Bhaktapur—often called the “City of Art” for its rich cultural heritage and timeless beauty—you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a living museum. The city’s ancient temples, historic squares, and winding alleys transport you to a magical past.

We’ll check into a centrally located, family-run hotel where you can enjoy a warm and authentic stay. Overnight in Bhaktapur.

After breakfast, spend the day exploring the rich cultural heritage of Bhaktapur. Wander through its narrow alleys and hidden courtyards, each revealing a glimpse of the city’s timeless charm. Visit a traditional Thangka painting school, where skilled artists create intricate Buddhist scroll paintings. Thangkas are spiritual artworks depicting deities, mandalas, and scenes from Buddhist teachings, often used for meditation and religious instruction.

Later, head to Pottery Square, where local artisans continue the age-old craft of pottery by hand and wheel. It’s a vibrant area full of life, creativity, and cultural tradition.

The highlight for your children today is a visit to Pottery Square, where they can sit at the wheel and make their own clay pots under the guidance of a master potter. Hands-on and heartwarming, this 15-minute creative experience is what Family Footprints in Nepal is all about—learning through joyful doing.

End the day with a heartfelt farewell dinner at a traditional Newari restaurant, where locals gather to share food and laughter. It’s the perfect setting to reflect on your family’s unforgettable journey through Nepal.

After breakfast, your driver will take you to the airport for your onward journey. As your Family Footprints in Nepal adventure comes to a close, your family leaves with more than souvenirs—you carry a shared story full of learning, laughter, and connection.