The Newars, the indigenous inhabitants of the Kathmandu Valley, are best known for their fine craftsmanship of metalworking and sculpturing. They are also known for their architecture which you see visiting Patan, the largest Newar town in the Valley. The Newars religion is both Buddhist and Hindu and is reflected in their temples such as Swayambunath and Boudhanath which was primarily Newari before the Tibetans came in 1959. You will see their rituals through their arts and performance. Discover the Newars is an enchanting experience.
Day 1 – Kathamndu
Arrive in Kathamndu where you will be met and driven to your hotel. Afternoon tour of Swayambunath and the National Museum.
Day 2 – Kathmandu
Tour Kathmandu proper, Durbar Marg and try to glimpse the Kumari, the virgin goddess, waving. Afternoon visit the sacred Pashupatinath and Boudhanath Stupa.
Day 3 – Kathmandu/Patan
See the Newari Temples and visit a Pauba painter for a demonstration of this religious iconography. Visit the NEF Art Gallery in Patan Square and see world famous Newari sculptures and paintings. Tour the Patan Museum to see traditional sacred art in an illustrious architectural setting. The home is an old residential court of Patan Darbar, one of the royal palaces of the former Malla kings of the Kathmandu Valley. Its gilded door and window face one of the most beautiful squares in the world.
Day 4 – Kathmandu/Bhaktapur
After breakfast drive to Bhaktapur, once the capital of Nepal during the great Malla kingdom. Visit a mask maker and woodcut printer to see the process of their crafts. Tour the Bronze and Brass Museum.
Day 5 – Kathmandu
Experience traditional Newari food. A typical Newari meal consists of the bajii (beaten rice), kawati (soup of different beans), kachila (semi-cooked spiced minced meat) spinach, wo (lentil patties), pau kawa (sour soups) and two kinds of liquor. Enjoy a traditional music/dance performance afterwards.
Day 6 – Kathmandu
You will be guests at the home of a traditional Newari family where you can see traditions and customs firsthand in their daily life.
Day 7 – Kathmandu
Visit a carpet weaving factory and see the different patterns and designs particular to this region. Attend a cultural or spiritual epic play.
Day 8 – Depart Kathmandu
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight onward.
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Optional – trekking or safari extensions.
