Take our all-inclusive Nepal Pilgrimage Tour and hit all the most venerated religious sites in the country. Upon arriving to Kathmandu, you will notice that even by walking past the seemingly infinite roadside shrines and courtyard stupas, the country has an ever-present feeling of spirituality and religiosity about it. Simply being in Nepal gives you a feeling that you are in a sacred place. Beyond this, there are several religious pilgrimage sites here. Thousands of Buddhist and Hindu pilgrims flock to Nepal each year to visit these sacred places.
Our Nepal Pilgrimage Tour takes you to several of these most revered places in one convenient package. During the tour, we visit Lumbini, Manakamana, Pharphing, and Kopan. Even (and especially) for foreigners who do not identify as Hindu or Buddhist, this tour is exceptionally interesting. Learn about rituals and customs of these religions and be mesmerized by their strong devotion.
One of the world’s most impactful who ever lived was born in Lumbini, Siddartha Gautama, otherwise known as Buddha. Lumbini is one of the four most important pilgrimage sights for Buddhists and it is to no surprise that thousands from all corners of the world visit Lumbini each year to pay homage to this influential teacher. A quiet, peaceful ambiance of Lumbini makes it easy to stay and look around, admiring the dozen or so monasteries and temples in the area. The highlight is vising Maya Devi Temple, which is said to be the exact site of the birth of Buddha.
Pharphing lies just a short drive from the city of Kathmandu and is home to several Buddhist and Hindu pilgrimage sites. There is even a ‘pilgrimage circuit’ (parikrama in Nepali or kora in Tibetan), and it takes a mere couple of hours to hit all the sacred spots. Explore Ralo Gompa, Sakya Tharig Gompa, and Drolma Lhakhang (all Buddhist monasteries), and another monastery, Guru Rinpoche Cave. The Buddhist vibe is powerful is Pharphing and you will be in awe at each unique monastery.
Take the Manakamana cable car up to the centuries-old Manakamana Temple. Built in the 17th century, Manakamana is one of the most highly revered temples in the hills of Nepal. It is said that Bhagwati, a goddess and the reincarnation of Parvati, may grant wishes to those who worship here. For this reason, many pilgrims come to pay homage and sacrifice animals in hopes for their wishes to come true. Not to mention, the memorable cable car ride up the hill gives spectacular mountain views on a clear day.
Finally, Kopan Monastery lies on top of a hill that overlooks Boudhanath. Kopan is known for its splendid retreats, which has classes serving visitors from all over the world. From meditation to Buddhist psychology, the monastery offers an array of classes for experts in Buddhism and those simply interested in what it has to offer.
Nepal Pilgrimage Tour can be taken any time of the year, just keep in mind that the climate of Nepal can offer different experiences during different times of the year. Third Eye Adventure Treks & Expedition Pvt. Ltd. takes care of all the package details. If you have any questions about the tour, please reach out to us!