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Nepal Photography: Impressions of the Buddhist Land (8 Days) | Humanities, Snow Mountains, and Animals

D1

Day 1: Meet in Kathmandu

All day

Today is the gathering day. Please fly to Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, and gather in Kathmandu. Upon arrival at Kathmandu Airport, China-TravelNote will arrange a pick-up (see the yellow China-TravelNote pick-up sign and meet the staff) and proceed to the gathering hotel for check-in.

Tourists arriving early can explore the city on their own or visit Kathmandu Durbar Square to capture the vibrant Nepali culture. Please keep your phone connected and exercise caution during this time.


丨Tourists' Privileges

Complimentary 24-hour airport pickup service for hassle-free arrival. This service is only available on the day of meeting. Please note that no pickup will be available if you arrive earlier.

丨Recommended free time itinerary

Depending on flight availability, if you have more than two hours to spend after arriving in Kathmandu on some domestic flights, we recommend visiting Kathmandu Durbar Square, home to numerous historical sites from the 17th and 18th centuries, including the Kumari Temple, where Nepal's "Living Goddess" resides, the Hanuman Dhoka Palace, built during the Lichavi period, and a dazzling array of Hindu architecture. This exotic destination unfolds before you.

How to get to Kathmandu

Arrival Airport: Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM). There are many domestic flight options available, and we recommend booking direct flights from Chengdu, Beijing, Kunming, Guangzhou, and other destinations. Alternatively, you can choose to connect. If booking a connecting flight, be sure to note the connection time: typically at least three hours, to avoid missing your previous flight due to delays.

丨Altitude and dry and rainy season reminders

Nepal boasts snow-capped mountains, but it's not considered a plateau. The trek's starting point, Pokhara, is only 800 meters above sea level, so altitude sickness is generally not a problem if you hike carefully. Nepal's rainy season runs from June to September, and photography tours do not operate during this period. The best hiking seasons are October to February, when the sun shines on the golden mountains, and February to April, when the azaleas are in full bloom.

Note: 1. The airport pick-up service is a complimentary item and is only available on the day of the gathering. The airport pick-up service is a separate item and is not part of the itinerary. It only provides one-way transfers from the airport to the hotel on the day of the gathering.

D2

Day 2 Kathmandu → Kathmandu Durbar Square → Bhaktapur

All day

In the morning, we went to Kathmandu Durbar Square to create. It encompasses Nepal's classical buildings from the 16th to the 19th century. We took photos as we walked, capturing the cultural scenes of Kathmandu Durbar Square.

Arrive at an appropriate time at Bhaktapur's Old Town, where you'll arrange lunch first, followed by free time for sightseeing and photography. Bhaktapur is the birthplace of medieval Nepalese art and architecture. Its iconic architecture includes the Palace of 55 Windows, featuring 55 black-lacquered sandalwood windows; the 15th-century "Peacock Window," a central carving depicting a peacock spreading its feathers; the gilded Golden Gate; the King's Bath; and the Nyatapola Temple, also known as the "Five-Storied Pagoda." You can also visit the Pottery Square in Bhaktapur's Durbar Square to witness pottery production in action.

China-TravelNote will arrange local models at the appropriate time, and the photography leader will lead everyone to create environmental portraits in the square.

Overnight stay in Bhaktapur.

Driving distance: about 30km

D3

Day 3 Bhaktapur → Chitwan

All day

In the morning, you can freely take photos of the morning scenery of Bhaktapur, gather in time and drive to Chitwan.

Arrive in the afternoon to experience canoeing and kayaking to photograph crocodiles and various birds. During this time, we will invite a local guide to introduce them to everyone one by one.

We will then visit the Rapti River to capture the reflections and light changes of the river before and after sunset, and watch the local boats plying the river. If the weather is good, we will also arrange for an elephant to play in the river, which will be a lively and interesting scene.

After the photoshoot, we had dinner and then went to watch a Tanu cultural performance featuring traditional dance and music to experience their unique cultural expression.

Driving distance: 200km, about 6 hours

Note: Note 1: It is about 200 kilometers from Bhaktapur to Chitwan, and the road conditions are poor. It takes about 6 hours without traffic jams. It is recommended to prepare some dry food and snacks in advance.
Note 2: The elephant water play activity is only available on sunny days. If the weather is bad, the sunset photo shoot along the Rapti River will be cancelled and replaced with an elephant viewing experience within the park. Thank you for your support and understanding.

D4

Day 4 Chitwan Forest Park → Pokhara

All day

After breakfast, we took an off-road vehicle into Chitwan National Park to photograph wildlife such as elephants, rhinos, and elks. When the sun shines into the jungle, the interaction between the wildlife and the lush scenery will become more vivid and interesting.

After concluding today’s pleasant journey in due time, we will leave Chitwan and head towards Pokhara.

Pokhara is the second largest city in Nepal. It is located in the Himalayan valley, nestled at the foot of the snow-capped Annapurna Peak and Fishtail Peak, next to the charming Phewa Lake. The lush vegetation and the magnificent snow-capped mountain scenery form a sharp contrast, making it a must-see place for tourists in Nepal.

Upon arrival, check in to the hotel and rest.

Driving distance: 170km, about 6 hours

Note: Note 1: The off-road vehicle ensures that each team member has a window view. It is recommended to wear long pants and long sleeves during the shooting process to prevent being scratched by branches;
Note 2: The journey from Chitwan to Pokhara is approximately 170 kilometers, and the road conditions are poor. It takes about 6 hours without traffic jams. It is recommended to prepare snacks in advance.

D5

Day 5 Pokhara → Sunrise at the Temple → → Australian Base Camp

All day

We'll get up early and head to a small temple to photograph the sunrise. On a clear day, you'll be able to capture the golden glow of the southern Himalayas, including Fishtail Peak. Afterward, we'll return to the hotel for breakfast.

At the right time, head to Australian Base Camp for close-up snow-capped mountains. This is another great viewpoint for Himalayan sunrises, where you can see the other side of Annapurna Peak (H8091) and the other peaks of the Annapurna Group, Dhaulagiri, and Fishtail Peak.

The way up the mountain is basically through forests and fields, and it takes about 2 hours of hiking to reach the top of the mountain (there are professional porters who are responsible for the photographic equipment, so we can take it easy on the way and focus on photographing the snow-capped mountains).

In the evening, I took photos of the sunset over the Himalayas next to the inn. The snow-capped peaks covered in golden light were so close at hand, it was very shocking.

We stayed at an inn on the mountain that day. The room was made of stone and cement and had a great view.

Driving distance: about 50km

Hiking: The hiking distance is about 2km, with a total climb of 300m, and takes about 2 hours. Trekking poles are provided free of charge.

Note: Note 1: The weight limit for each person is 15kg, and it must be a backpack or camera bag with certain protective properties. Bulk items and fragile items cannot be carried. If you need the help of a porter, please organize the relevant items in advance.

D6

Day 6 Australian Base Camp → Pokhara (Phewa Lake Rafting + Ganges Night Festival)

All day

Get up early and take pictures of the sunrise over the Himalayan peaks. The rolling sea of ​​clouds and the stunning light and shadow of the snow-capped mountains will surely amaze your lens.

After breakfast, we hiked down the mountain, enjoying breathtaking scenery along the way. The Annapurna Mountains, Dhaulagiri (H8167), and another side of Fishtail Peak accompanied us as we gradually moved further away. Reluctantly, we reached the foot of the mountain and transferred to a bus, which took about half an hour to return to Pokhara.

In the afternoon, enjoy a boat trip on the beautiful Phewa Lake, exploring and photographing the area. Phewa Lake is the second largest lake in Nepal and a popular royal resort. Just off the southern shore is the King's palace.

Arrive at the Shakti Temple on an island in the lake, and gaze up at the peaks of the Annapurna Mountains, a crown that encircles Pokhara. Stroll along the lakeside and marvel at the captivating scenery of Pokhara: the beautiful, clear Phewa Lake, the towering, snow-capped Annapurna Mountains, and the breathtaking lush greenery.

Return to the lakeside dock in time to photograph the mysterious Ganges Night Festival. This ancient Nepali ritual honors Lord Shiva and expresses gratitude for the Ganges' bounty. The ceremony includes scattering flowers, lighting fires, burning incense, and even candle towers with sacred flames. Priests perform prayers accompanied by ancient music. The entire experience is filled with a sense of sacredness and joy, inspiring awe and gratitude for nature's gifts.

After the shooting, we returned to the hotel to check in.

Driving distance: about 50km

D7

Day 7 Pokhara → Kathmandu (Swayambhunath Temple + Pashupatinath Temple + Ascetic Culture + Night Ceremony)

All day

After breakfast, depart for flight back to Kathmandu.

Upon arrival, we first headed to Swayambhunath (also known as the Monkey Temple) for some photography. Located atop Mount Swayambhunath outside Kathmandu, it was built in the 3rd century BC and is one of Nepal's oldest Buddhist temples. Due to the large population of wild monkeys, it's affectionately known as the "Monkey Temple." We wandered the grounds, photographing the temple architecture, the devout locals, and the playful monkeys.

After leaving at an opportune time, we drove to the sacred Hindu site of Pashupatinath Temple (also known as the "Burning Corpse Temple"). China-TravelNote arranged a special ascetic photography session. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the three main deities of destruction and rebirth in Hinduism, the temple is a crucial Hindu temple and the site of cremation for local Hindus. Visitors can observe the cremation process openly, experiencing the Bagmati cremation culture up close and experiencing the intense visual and cultural impact of the recording.

At night, I filmed and recorded the night sacrifice ceremony at the crematorium.

After the shooting, we went to the Tamil district to find food freely, gathered at the agreed time, and returned to the hotel to check in.

Driving distance: about 30km

D8

Day 8: All-day disbandment in Kathmandu

All day

Today is the day for the whole day disbanding in Kathmandu. You can freely arrange your return trip according to your flight time.

Tourists, still reluctant to leave, bid farewell with tears in their eyes. After returning, please remember to fill out a follow-up review on the China-TravelNote app to win a voucher. You can also post your travel notes or works on the China-TravelNote community & China-TravelNote photography website to share the wonderful memories of your trip!

Climate: Nepal's climate is suitable for travel all year round. It is recommended to bring appropriate clothing according to your travel time;
In summer (May, June, and July), the average daytime maximum temperature in Kathmandu is 28.1°C and the average nighttime minimum temperature is 19.5°C. The average daytime maximum temperature in Pokhara is 29.7°C and the average nighttime minimum temperature is 21.3°C. The average daytime maximum temperature in Chitwan is 33°C and the average nighttime minimum temperature is 25.3°C.
In winter (December, January and February), the average maximum daytime temperature in Kathmandu is 19.3℃ and the average minimum nighttime temperature is 3℃. The average maximum daytime temperature in Pokhara is 20.3℃ and the average minimum nighttime temperature is 7.7℃. The average maximum daytime temperature in Chitwan is 24.1℃ and the average minimum nighttime temperature is 8.3℃.


Altitude: If you don't hike in Nepal, you won't experience the highlands of Tibet. See the following altitudes for different locations: Kathmandu: 1,300 meters, Pokhara: 800 meters, Chitwan: 150 meters, Nagarkot: 2,000 meters. So, forget about any concerns about altitude sickness and fully experience the freedom and pristine nature of Nepal!


What to bring: You don't need to bring anything special to Nepal. Common items include: passport, visa, air ticket, cash or bank cards, a suitcase or backpack, a comfortable waist bag or small backpack, suitable clothing, lightweight sports shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, toiletries, slippers (the first two items are rarely provided by hotels in Nepal, so we strongly recommend bringing them), common medications, a headrest for driving, photography equipment, a flashlight, and a cell phone.

Currency: Avoid taking large amounts of Nepalese rupees out of the country, as this may lead to police questioning and confiscation of cash, potentially under suspicion of being a tourist engaged in trade. When carrying cash into or out of Nepal, it's recommended to limit your cash limit to US$5,000 or its equivalent in foreign currency. Any excess cash must be declared at customs.


Tipping: At Nepali airports, during departures and arrivals, as well as during baggage check-in, you'll often see Nepali workers offering to help with your luggage. If you're not prepared to tip, don't let them handle your luggage. If you do allow them to help, tip them. Tipping is also a good way to show appreciation for the work of porters, tour bus drivers, and boatmen on Phewa Lake.


Time difference: Nepal time is 2 hours and 15 minutes behind Beijing time. For example, 12:00 noon Beijing time is 9:45 am Nepal time.
Currency: The local currency is the Nepalese Rupee (RS). Please bring US dollars or RMB. USD, RMB, Hong Kong dollars, Euros, and other foreign currencies can be exchanged for Nepalese Rupee directly at local banks. The exchange rate is approximately 1 USD to 70 NPR, and 1 RMB to 10.8 NPR (these rates are valid as of October 2011; the actual exchange rate is subject to the local exchange rate on that day). Upon arrival at the airport, you can exchange a small amount of NPR for tips and other expenses such as porters. You can then exchange USD or RMB for NPR directly at banks in Kathmandu.


Language: Nepali is the official language. English is commonly spoken in hotels, shops, restaurants, and other tourism-related areas. Nepalese greet people by putting their hands together and saying "Namaste."


Electrical appliances, mobile phones, and internet: The voltage is generally 220V or 240V, which conforms to Chinese voltage standards. However, hotel outlets primarily use two-way round-prong adapters, so please bring your own adapter. (To convert a Chinese flat-prong outlet to a Nepali round-prong outlet, purchase a three-way round-prong adapter with two short prongs and one long prong.) > If you have international roaming, Chinese mobile phones can be used in Nepal (for both calls and texts). To call Nepal from an internationally roaming mobile phone: 0086-phone number. To call an internationally roaming mobile phone from China: dial the mobile number directly. To call a Nepali hotel from China: 00977 (Nepal country code) + 1 (Kathmandu area code), 61 (Pokhara area code), or 56 (Chitwan area code) + phone number. > More and more hotels in Nepal are offering wireless internet access. Guests with laptops in Kathmandu and Pokhara can use in-room wired internet (for a fee) or lobby Wi-Fi (for a fee). Chitwan and Nagarkot currently do not have in-hotel internet access. Internet phones, direct dial lines, and internet cafes are plentiful and convenient in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Internet phone calls are inexpensive, ranging from 3 to 25 Nepali riels per minute to call China.

Hotels: Nepal's tourism industry is its mainstay, so tourism facilities are quite comprehensive. In major cities, you can choose from a wide range of hotels, from five-star international chains to budget-friendly guesthouses. Generally speaking, these hotels are smaller and older than comparable domestic hotels, but offer attentive and enthusiastic service. Groups are generally provided with standard double rooms, with two people sharing a room. Rooms come with towels, but no toiletries, slippers, or hot water are provided.


Meals: The hotel offers a mix of Chinese and Western breakfast, and the main meals are mainly Chinese food. Some of the food has Indian-style Chinese flavors, which may not be familiar to Chinese tourists. You can bring side dishes according to your personal needs (liquid foods need to be checked in).


Vehicles: Nepal has virtually no industry, and all vehicles are imported. Tourist vehicles are mostly imported from India, Japan, and South Korea. They are often older and in poor condition.


Souvenirs: Nepalese handicrafts such as Buddha statues, thangkas, wool blankets, handicraft accessories, paper crafts, oil paintings, Gurkha knives, wool shawls, South Asian CDs, Nepalese postcards, landscape paintings, Nepalese cotton clothing, Nepalese wood carvings, pottery, and metal products are all worth buying. However, please note that Buddha statues, considered antiques, cannot be taken out of Nepal. Gurkha knives longer than 25 cm may be classified as controlled knives by Chengdu Customs and confiscated upon return to Chengdu Airport. Smaller and slightly larger knives can be checked as gifts, so please be careful when purchasing. Also, carrying multiple thangkas may be inspected or confiscated upon entry from Lhasa, so purchase in moderation.

Nepal: Located at the southern foot of the central Himalayas, it borders Tibet to the north, Sikkim to the east, and India to the southeast, west, and south. This rectangular country covers an area of ​​145,391 square kilometers. Nepal is considered a "Great Little Country." Over a quarter of its 145,391 square kilometers lies above 3,000 meters above sea level, a narrow stretch of mountainous terrain, one-third of which is forested. Nepal boasts eight mountains exceeding 8,000 meters in height.

Pokhara: Nestled in the southern foothills of the Himalayas, surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks, Pokhara is approximately 200 kilometers from Kathmandu. It is a small city of about 100,000 people. Beautiful Pokhara is renowned for its stunning views of Phewa Lake and the northern peaks of Mt. Annapurna and Mt. Fishtail. It has long been a crucial preparation and training base for mountaineers from around the world attempting Himalayan ascents. It serves as the starting point or destination for numerous hiking routes, making it a recognized "hiking paradise" for backpackers from around the world.

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