In the spring of 2024, our small family of four decided to go on a memorable trip to Nepal. We wanted something exciting, but also safe and fun for our kids.

I had always dreamed of visiting Nepal. I wasn’t sure if taking small kids on such a trip would be okay, but I also wanted them to experience something different. I wanted to explore temples, walk through quiet villages, and enjoy nature as a family. We didn’t want a complicated or risky adventure, just something simple, meaningful, and fun.

After much searching and planning, I found Nepal Vision Treks. As we got in touch, I told them what we were looking for, and they helped us with everything. Their quick replies and helpful support made our trip much easier.

We began our journey with hearts full of wonder and hands held tightly together. Now, we’re sharing a glimpse of the magic we found in a place that made us feel truly alive.

Immersing in Kathmandu's Culture

Packing our bags and heading to the airport from the US, all we could think about was the excitement of experiencing the peaceful peaks surrounded by Nepal's natural and cultural wonders. Our guide was there to welcome us as we landed at Tribhuvan Airport. He took us to our hotel in Thamel, the lively heart of Kathmandu Valley, where the adventure began.

Wonders of Kathmandu

Our exploration started in the bustling streets of Kathmandu, where history and culture blend into every corner. The first stop was Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple. The kids had a blast running around the open spaces, while we took in the breathtaking view from the top. The peaceful atmosphere made pausing, reflecting, and taking in the surroundings easy. The playful monkeys added a bit of fun, keeping the kids entertained.

Next, we visited Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world. As we walked around, the peacefulness and spirituality of the place filled us all. The spinning prayer wheels and the colourful flags fluttering in the wind fascinated the kids. We all took a moment to feel the calm, circling the stupa as we learned about its significance.

We then made our way to Pashupatinath, a sacred Hindu temple on the banks of the Bagmati River. The kids were curious about the rituals they saw, so we spent time explaining their significance. It was a beautiful spot for reflection; life, death, and spirituality were all present here. Even though some of the traditions were new, we could feel the deep connection to the culture.

Learning the History of Patan & Bhaktapur

From there, we visited Patan and Bhaktapur, two ancient cities that are full of history. Walking through the Durbar Squares and Chowks felt like stepping back in time. We wandered through narrow streets, admired old temples, and watched local artisans at work. The kids were especially excited to see pottery making and wood carving demonstrations, where we even got to try crafting a bit ourselves.

One of the most memorable moments was when the kids learned to say ‘Namaste’ correctly, and we all tried local snacks. It was a simple but fun way to connect with the people and the culture.

During our time in Kathmandu, we also attended a traditional music performance. The rhythms and melodies brought the local culture to life in a way words couldn’t. Our local guide shared fascinating folk stories about the area’s history, giving us a deeper understanding of Kathmandu’s rich past. 

At night, we were amazed by Thamel's vibrant energy. The streets were lit with lights and filled with music, food, and life, which was definitely a sight to behold. But after a full day of exploring, tasting delicious food, and marvelling at the ancient architecture, the kids were exhausted. We all wound up in bed a bit earlier than usual, ready to rest and prepare for the next day of adventure.

Easy Adventure in Nepal

The next morning, we woke up early and had a quick breakfast, as we were about to head on a five-hour journey to Chitwan. This would be our first stop, where we’d wander into the wildlife charm of Chitwan National Park, before heading to the serene valley of Pokhara.

Wildlife Adventures in Chitwan National Park

Our adventure in Chitwan National Park began with an exciting Jeep safari. We were fortunate to see a majestic rhino up close, and the thrill of spotting this magnificent animal in its natural home was an experience we’ll never forget. Despite their massive size, we also had the special chance to feed elephants, and it was amazing to see how gentle they were.

We also took a guided jungle walk, led by someone from the park who knew so much about the plants and animals around us. We learned about animal tracks, jungle sounds, and even spotted birds we had never seen before.

As the evening settled in, we attended a cultural Tharu dance performance. The colourful costumes and energetic dances gave us an authentic taste of the local Tharu culture. We also tried a local delicacy called Ghongi, a type of snail dish, which was surprisingly tasty. The dance, delicious food, and cultural exchange deepened our understanding of the area's Indigenous traditions.

Peaceful Days in Pokhara

After leaving Chitwan, we reached Pokhara, a calm city known for its lakes and mountain views. We headed straight to Phewa Lake for a quiet boat ride, just in time for the Sandhya Aarati at Tal Barahi Temple — a peaceful moment surrounded by soft chants and flickering lamps.

To add some learning for the kids, we visited the International Mountain Museum, where stories of brave climbers and Himalayan culture caught their attention. Then came the splash and thrill of Davis Falls, followed by an exciting walk through the Mahendra Cave, where the same waterfall flows underground. The cave’s dark corners and cool air made it a fun adventure.

We also visited Begnas Lake, a quieter spot where we enjoyed tasty fish dishes, kayaking, and boating in calm waters. Our last evening was spent walking by the lake, grabbing momos from food stalls, and relaxing at cosy cafés, the perfect ending to a peaceful part of our journey.

What Nepal Gave Our Family

Nepal gave us more than we expected. We spent time together, away from screens and routines, and truly enjoyed each other’s company. We learned new things, saw amazing places, and met kind people everywhere.

Our kids found joy in small things like waving at monkeys, spinning prayer wheels, tasting new food, and talking to new faces. We loved the slower pace; it gave us time to breathe, watch sunsets, and be present.

If you're a family considering a trip like this, our advice is simple: Go for it. Choose places that are calm and safe. Take it slow. Enjoy each day as it comes. Nepal is warm, welcoming, and perfect for a quiet family adventure.

Thank you to Nepal Vision Trek for organising such a smooth and memorable journey for us. And a special thanks to our guide, Nir Bahadur Tamang, for his thoughtful support, deep knowledge, and kind guidance throughout the trip. He truly made our experience feel safe, personal, and unforgettable.

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