7 Days Nepal Buddhist Circuit Tour

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7 Days Nepal Buddhist Circuit Tour
Quick Overview
Duration7 Days
Trip GradeEasy
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude1350m/4430ft
Group Size2-20
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
ActivitiesKathmandu-Lumbini Buddhist trail tour
Best TimeFeb, Mar, April, May, June, Sep, Oct, Nov & Dec

Enjoy a deep Buddhist journey in Nepal, which is a very spiritual trip that follows the life and lessons of Lord Buddha. This deep experience links the most important UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It starts with the peaceful Lumbini visit to the Maya Devi Temple, where Buddha was born. 

In the Kathmandu Valley, you can see the famous Swayambhunath Stupa, which has a Buddha face with eyes looking in every direction, and the huge, colourful Boudhanath Stupa, which is a center for Tibetan Buddhism around the world. The trail goes to famous  places like Namobuddha, a place to remember a sacrifice made in a past life, and Pharping's meditation caves, which are holy to Guru Rinpoche.

 This carefully planned Buddhist heritage tour includes unique meditation experiences, chances to see beautiful Buddhist art and buildings, and opportunities to live like a monk. It is meant for spiritual travellers and combines the chance to think deeply about yourself with visits to ancient temples and calm natural settings where people follow  Buddhist  rituals.

A major highlight of the Buddhist trail tour 

  • Visit the peaceful grounds of Maya Devi Temple, where Lord Buddha was born, and the International Monastic Zone, which has temples from all over the world.
  • Climb  to  this  old  stupa  on  a  mountaintop,  which  has  the  famous  Buddha  eyes  and beautiful views of the valley. It is a mix of Buddhist and Hindu devotion.
  • Walk  around  one  of  the  world's  biggest  stupas  while  pilgrims  chant  in  time  with  the whirling prayer wheels at this impressive UNESCO monument.
  • Travel to this tranquil mountaintop where Buddha showed the ultimate sacrifice in a former life. Now there are stupas and views of the whole area.
  • Visit sacred caverns where Guru Rinpoche found enlightenment. These caves are a holy place for serious meditation and Vajrayana practice.
  • Learn the basics of meditation and Buddhism at this serene monastery on a mountaintop overlooking the Kathmandu Valley.
  • See amazing Buddhist art, such as detailed wood carvings, huge gold statues, colourful Tibetan paintings, and designs for stupas that have been around for a long time.
  • For a real spiritual experience, live as a monk every day by doing things like morning prayers, butter lamp ceremonies, and local pilgrim rites.

Overview of the Kathmandu-Lumbini Buddhist trail tour-7 days

Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha, was born in Nepal. It is not  simply a nation; it is a living mix of Buddhist culture, spirituality, and peaceful scenery. The Buddhist Trail in Nepal takes pilgrims and visitors on a deep journey through sacred locations, old monasteries, meditation centers, and venerated stupas that have supported Buddhism for over 2,000 years.

This path goes through green hills, quiet valleys, and busy towns.The Buddhist Trail connects locations where the Buddha spread his teachings, great masters meditated, and people now gather to pray.It is a trip that combines looking inside yourself with looking outside at history, architecture, culture, and the stunning beauty of nature. The journey begins in the peaceful plains of Lumbini, where Lord Buddha was born. It then goes to the lively monastic centers of Kathmandu Valley, such as Swayambhunath (the Monkey Temple) and Boudhanath Stupa, which is one of the biggest spherical stupas in the world and a center of Tibetan Buddhism.

It goes even farther to remote mountain retreats like Namobuddha, where people tell stories of kindness, and to the cave monasteries of Pharping, where Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) is said to have meditated. But our tour starts from Kathmandu, and we went to Lumbini and then back to Kathmandu. Along the route, there are tranquil woodland walks, prayer flags that flutter in the wind, prayer wheels that spin, and the soft sound of mantras. Each site narrates a story of enlightenment, sacrifice, and dedication.

They also provide places for meditation, studying, and connecting with monastic groups. The Buddhist Trail in Nepal encourages you to walk in the footsteps of the Awakened One and  feel  a  tranquility  that  goes  beyond  time.  Whether  you  are  a  pilgrim  looking  for  blessings,  a meditator looking for solitude, or a visitor interested in spiritual traditions, this is the place for you.

Reminder

For  a  smooth  and  easy  start,  we  recommend  arriving  in  Kathmandu  by  4  PM  the  day before we leave. This gives you enough time for a final gear check, a trip briefing with your guide, and to ensure you have everything you need before heading out on the trek. 

Online briefing

This online meeting serves as our first coffee before the trip! This online meeting is your opportunity to learn about everything that will happen on the trip. We'll discuss everything from what gear to bring  to  what  each  day  on  the  route  will  be  like  and  how  it  will  feel,  and  we'll  address  any questions you may have. After you book, we'll send you an email with a couple of times when we can talk. We'll set up our pre-adventure meeting as soon as you submit the papers we need. Also, our tour itinerary  includes your hotel stay in Kathmandu.  During the online meeting, please share your preferences, budget, and the standard of the hotel you would like to stay at in Kathmandu. We will arrange it for you accordingly.

Compare Our Three Packages

  Budget Standard Luxury
Price from USD 450 USD 850 USD 1,750
Meals Breakfast only (BB basis) All meals included (B/L/D) All meals + all drinks (except alcohol)
Room Tourist hotel 3-star hotel Luxury hotel
Porter
Guide 1 guide, assistant at 8+ 1 guide per 6, assistant at 6+ 1 per group
Transport Local vehicle Private tourist vehicle Luxury private vehicle
SIM data SIM only Limited data Unlimited data
Best for Budget-conscious travellers Comfortable touring Premium experience

Himalayas for Every Budget — same expert guides, same safety, three comfort levels.

Your Pilgrimage, Our Family

The Everest Holiday is not a travel agency in the usual sense. It is a family. Shreejan Simkhada, our CEO, grew up surrounded by Himalayan guiding — his grandfather supported expeditions in the 1960s, his father held senior positions in Nepal's tourism institutions. When Shreejan and Sam founded this company in 2016, they weren't starting a business. They were continuing a legacy.

On this Buddhist pilgrimage, that family connection matters. We don't just show you temples. We show you the Nepal we grew up in — the rituals we practise, the prayers we know by heart, the sacred sites where our own family has worshipped for generations.

Why Travellers Trust Us

Deep respect for Nepal's spiritual heritage. As a Nepali family, we understand the sacred significance of every temple, stupa, and monastery on this pilgrimage route. Our guides don't just recite history — they share the living traditions they grew up with.

Government registered, TAAN certified. Registration 147653/072/073, TAAN Member #1586. Every guide carries first-aid certification and speaks fluent English.

A portion of every booking supports 70 children's education through the Nagarjun Learning Center. Pilgrimage that gives back.

Solo Travellers Welcome

Most of our travellers join solo — you will be part of a small group of like-minded adventurers from around the world. Our groups are kept small (2-20 people) so you get a personal experience. Many of our solo travellers tell us the group becomes like a second family.

Difficulty: Easy (1/5)

A relaxed tour of Nepal's two most popular cities. No trekking. Includes heritage sites, lake activities, and cultural experiences. Perfect for first-time visitors or those who prefer comfort over adventure.

Your Booking Supports Children's Education

A portion of every booking supports the Nagarjun Learning Center, founded by our family in 2019. Today, 70 children receive free education and hot meals daily at our flagship centre in Saldum Village, Dhading District. The centre is verified and listed on the UN Partner Portal.

Trek With a Purpose.

Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu And Transfer to the Hotel of your choice
Day 02: Sightseeing some of the Buddhist sites of Kathmandu.
Day 03: Morning  drive  to  Namoboudha  and  back  to  Kathmandu  by  visiting  the  cave monasteries of Pharping.
Day 04: Drive 287 km/ 178 miles to Lumbini in a private vehicle
Day 05: Sightseeing in Lumbini
Day 06: Drive Back to Kathmandu
Day 07: Final Departure
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Customise Trip

Interactive Route Map

Availability

Book your own private small group trip
No. of travellers
Price per person
2 - 4 pax
US$450
5 - 8 pax
US$399
8 - 12 pax
US$339
13 - 20 pax
US$299

Discounts are determined exclusively by the size of your group. We do not add additional members to your group.

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Secure Payment by Himalayan Bank.
Cost Includes

Transportation

  • Airport Pick-up and Drop-off from Tribhuvan International Airport to the Hotel of your choice.
  • Transportation from Kathmandu to Lumbini and back to Kathmandu by local transportation.

Accommodation and food

  • Accommodation in Kathmandu at a tourist hotel with breakfast, Lunch, and dinner.
  • Accommodation in Lumbini at a tourist hotel with breakfast, Lunch, and dinner

Guide

  • An English-speaking guide is provided.

Permits and Expense

  • All entrance fees and permits required to enter different sites are included in this tour. 
  • All government taxes and official expenses.

Complimentary

  • The company will provide a T-shirt and cap for you to wear before the tour.
  • At the end of your trip, you'll have a farewell meal at a restaurant in the area. At the farewell dinner after the Kathmandu-Lumbini tour (7 days), we will give you a certificate of achievement for successful completion of the tour.

Benefits

  • Free excess luggage storage at The Everest Holiday store for the duration of the tour.
  • We will arrange a SIM Card for every individual tourist upon arrival in Kathmandu and teach them how to get budget internet packages and top up their services.
Cost Excludes

International Flight

  • International flight cost.

Nepali Visa

  • At Tribhuvan International Airport, you can pay the following fees upon arrival: $30 for a 15-day visa, $50 for a 30-day visa, and $120 for a 90-day visa. Alternatively, you can apply for and receive a Nepal visa from the Nepalese embassy or consulate in your country.

(Note: Anyone having a visa before arrival has an express exit through the immigration line. To obtain a visa upon arrival at TIA Kathmandu, you must have the necessary funds in US dollars.) 

Accommodation and food. 

  • Accommodation in Kathmandu before and after the tour is included in this package. So, please let us know your preferences, budget, and standard of the hotel you would like  to  stay  in  Kathmandu  during  the  online  meeting. This will allow us to arrange your accommodation accordingly.

Guide

  • Tip for guides. (Recommended)

Other expenses

  • All non-alcoholic drinks like bottled water, hot water, soft drinks, juice, tea, coffee, and alcoholic drinks, etc., are not included, etc.
  • Additional  costs  due  to  delays  caused  by  circumstances  out  of  our  control,  like landslides, unfavourable weather, itinerary modification due to safety concerns, illness, changes in government policies, strikes, etc.

Essential Information

Customise your tour

The schedule above is simply a suggestion. You may change your vacation to other tour places. You may also reach us by phone or  WhatsApp at  +977- 9810351300 or by email at info@theeverestholiday.com

Food

Most of the time, you will eat at your hotel's restaurant, which serves a mix of Nepali, Indian, and continental cuisines. Because Lumbini  is  a  pilgrimage site, there are many great vegetarian alternatives. We will set up lunch at a well-known local restaurant near the monastery zone for when we are out touring.

Travel Essentials

Visa and passport

Everyone who isn't Indian needs a visa to get into Nepal. Most people from other countries can get an on-arrival visa, which is good news. You will need a passport-size photo, visa costs (USD50 for a 30-day stay), and a passport that is valid for at least six months to get an on-arrival visa. Go to the immigration website, https://www.immigration.gov.np, to find out the most up-to-date visa rules. Please be aware that people from some countries cannot get an on-arrival visa. Citizens of SAARC and China can acquire free visas, although there are certain rules.

Changing Money

The official money of Nepal is the Nepali Rupee (NPR). 1 USD is around 130 NPR. Banks and money exchanges will let you trade most foreign currencies. To avoid excessive bank costs and long processing times, we suggest using legal money exchanges to swap funds. You may also get Nepali Rupees at ATMs in and around Kathmandu. You can take out up to NRs 35,000 from an ATM for a charge of Rs 500. Please note that only INR notes of 100 and 2,000 are authorized  in  Nepal.  Old,  damaged,  or  faded  foreign  money  will  not  be  accepted  by  Nepali banks. So, be sure to bring fresh, clean bills. You may have to go to Kathmandu to exchange foreign currency, as other towns may not offer this service. We think you will need between 20  to 25 US dollars a day to spend.

Security

The Everest Holiday promises that its clients will be safe, secure, and happy. Your safety is the most important thing to us. Our guides are experienced, have a license from the government, and have had a lot of training in first aid. We will go sightseeing together every day, which will make it much safer. 

Trip conclusion 

Farewell Dinner 

We will have a farewell meal for you in Kathmandu after the tour, remember. This is a great opportunity to share stories from your adventure and provide us with your feedback. We will also present you with a certificate of achievement to recognize your incredible accomplishment.

Departure 

To arrange your airport transfer, please let us know your hotel name, room number, and flight departure details. We will take you from your hotel to Tribhuvan International Airport so you may catch your trip home. We hope you had an amazing time and can't wait to see you back in Nepal for another tour.

Tipping culture

Tipping is a common practice in Nepal. We recommend giving a group tip to your guide at the end of the tour. The amount is up to you and can depend on the quality of service, trip length, your budget, and the overall cost of the tour.

Facilities and Essentials

Water

Bottled water is widely available throughout the tour route. We recommend carrying a reusable water bottle and refilling it at hotels and restaurants. Avoid drinking untreated tap water. Your guide will ensure safe drinking water is accessible at every stop.

Communication

Mobile coverage is generally good throughout this tour route. We will provide you with a SIM card in Kathmandu and teach you how to get data and recharge. Wi-Fi is available at most hotels and restaurants along the way. Your guide carries a mobile phone at all times for coordination and emergencies.

Accommodation

You will stay in comfortable hotels throughout this tour. All accommodation is pre-booked and confirmed before departure.

(Note:

Budget: Clean, well-maintained hotels with private rooms and hot water.

Standard: 3-star hotels with better amenities and locations.

Luxury: The best available hotels at each stop, with premium facilities and service.

Luggage

Your luggage will be transported by vehicle throughout the tour, so there are no weight restrictions. You will only need a small daypack for items you want during sightseeing stops. Extra baggage can be stored for free at your hotel in Kathmandu.

Travel Essentials

Bring copies of your passport, visa, insurance policy, and emergency contact details. Keep digital copies on your phone as well. Your guide will brief you on everything before departure.

Travel Insurance

We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses, trip cancellation, and personal belongings. For high-altitude activities, your policy must cover emergency helicopter evacuation. We ask our clients to provide insurance details before departure.

Currency Exchange

The Nepali Rupee (NPR) is the local currency. ATMs are available in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and major towns. Credit cards are accepted at larger hotels and restaurants but not at smaller shops or on remote trails.

We recommend carrying cash in NPR for daily expenses. USD, GBP, EUR, and AUD can be exchanged at banks and money changers in Kathmandu.

Extra Expense

While the package covers most costs, you should budget for personal expenses such as hot showers (NPR 200-500), device charging (NPR 200-500), drinks, snacks, and souvenirs.

At higher altitudes, prices increase. We recommend carrying NPR 20,000-30,000 in cash for extras along the trail. Tips for your guide and porters are also at your discretion.

TEH Family

TEH Family

The Everest Holiday is more than a trekking company — it is a family. Founded in 2016 by Shreejan Simkhada and Shamjhana Basukala, the company carries forward three generations of Himalayan expertise.

Shreejan’s grandfather, Hari Lal Simkhada, arranged logistics and supported Himalayan expeditions in the 1960s and 1970s. His father, Ganesh Prasad Simkhada, has held senior positions in Nepal’s tourism and mountaineering institutions.

When you trek with us, you are joining this family tradition.

Booking

Booking

To confirm your booking, we require a 10% advance payment. Payment is processed securely through Himalayan Bank Limited’s online portal on our website. We also accept bank transfer via Wise. The remaining balance is due at least 60 days before your departure date.

FAQs

What is the Nepal Buddhist Circuit Tour?
A 7-day spiritual journey through Nepal's most sacred Buddhist sites. Visit Lumbini (birthplace of Lord Buddha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Boudhanath and Swayambhunath stupas in Kathmandu, and ancient monasteries in the Kathmandu Valley. This tour is designed for spiritual travellers seeking a deeper understanding of Buddhist heritage.

What are the highlights?
Lumbini — the birthplace of Lord Buddha with the Maya Devi Temple and Ashoka Pillar. Boudhanath Stupa — one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world. Swayambhunath — the ancient hilltop monastery. Kopan Monastery — a meditation centre with panoramic Himalayan views.

How long is this tour?
7 days including all transfers and guided visits to Buddhist sites.

Do I need to be fit for this tour?
No special fitness required. This is a sightseeing tour with comfortable vehicle transport between cities. Some walking is involved at cultural sites and viewpoints, but nothing strenuous.

Is this suitable for families and seniors?
Absolutely. This tour is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Children, seniors, and people with limited mobility can enjoy this tour comfortably.

Do I need any permits?
No trekking permits are needed. Entry fees for national parks, temples, and heritage sites are included in the package.

Is travel insurance mandatory?
We strongly recommend travel insurance covering medical expenses and trip cancellation. While this is not a high-risk activity, insurance provides peace of mind.

What visa do I need?
Most nationalities get a visa on arrival at Kathmandu airport. USD 50 for 30 days, payable in cash.

Will I have a guide?
Yes. An experienced English-speaking guide accompanies you throughout the tour, providing cultural and historical context at every stop. A dedicated driver and comfortable vehicle are also provided.

Where do I stay?
Comfortable hotels at each stop. All accommodation is pre-booked and confirmed before departure.

(Note:
Budget: clean hotels with private rooms and hot water.
Standard: 3-star hotels with better amenities.
Luxury: best available hotels at each location.)

When is the best time?
Year-round. Autumn and spring are most pleasant. Lumbini is warm (25-35°C) while Kathmandu is cooler (15-25°C).

Can I do this tour year-round?
Yes. This tour operates year-round. Summer (June-August) is monsoon season with rain, but tours still run. Winter (December-February) is cool and clear with excellent visibility.

What food is available?
A wide variety — Nepali, Indian, Chinese, and Western cuisine at restaurants and hotels. Vegetarian and dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice. Kathmandu and Pokhara have excellent restaurants.

Is water safe?
Only drink bottled or filtered water. Bottled water is widely available everywhere on the tour route.

What should I pack?
Comfortable clothing, walking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, camera, and a light rain jacket. No special gear needed. Pack layers for temperature changes between Kathmandu (warm) and higher-altitude stops (cooler).

How do I book?
10% deposit through Himalayan Bank Limited's secure online portal. Balance due 60 days before departure. We also accept bank transfer via Wise.

What is the cancellation policy?
60+ days: full refund minus USD 50. 30-60 days: 50% refund. Under 30 days: no refund but we will try to reschedule.

How do I travel between cities?
By private vehicle with an experienced driver. Roads between major cities are paved. The scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara takes about 6-7 hours via the Prithvi Highway with mountain views. Domestic flights can also be arranged for those preferring to save time.