VISIT OUR EDUCATION PROJECTS

8 NIGHTS | FROM US$1,695* | DEPARTS: KATHMANDU, NEPAL

NEXT SCHEDULED TRIP: 5TH - 14TH NOVEMBER 2025

dates in 2026 TBC: Contact us for details

Embark on a Unique Journey: See Impact in Action, Explore Hidden Nepal

Join us for a unique journey led by the directors of First Steps Himalaya, combining purpose with discovery. This exclusive tour offers firsthand insight into our education projects in rural Nepal while exploring some of the country's most beautiful, off-the-beaten-path destinations.

Visit project schools, meet dedicated teachers, and witness how quality, child-friendly education is transforming remote communities. Explore our training centre, learn about our practical teacher training in action, and see the resilience of our earthbag buildings, which withstood the 2015 earthquake.

Beyond the projects, you'll visit a renowned Buddhist monastery, charming rural villages, and a historic hilltop fortress, all while enjoying ample free time to explore at your own pace.

Stay in thoughtfully selected accommodations known for their sustainable practices, delicious food, and warm hospitality. This tour is ideal as a standalone experience or as a meaningful add-on to any of our Nepal treks—or even a complementary extension to your Bhutan adventure. Flexible start and end dates allow you to customize your journey with additional days at either end.

* Price based on twin share accommodation. Single room supplement available subject to availability. Minimum group size: 4 people. Fixed departure dates.
Find out approximate trip price in your own currency here

Trip Inclusions

• Private vehicle with driver beyond Kathmandu

• Guided tour of projects with the charity’s directors

• 8 nights quality accommodation

• All meals outside Kathmandu, breakfast & some group meals in Kathmandu

trip ITINERARY

DAY 1

Kathmandu: Your journey begins in Nepal’s capital Kathmandu. Explore the vibrant city at your own pace. Overnight: Kathmandu
Altitude: 1,400 m.

DAY 2

Kathmandu: After a relaxed breakfast, embark on a self-guided exploration of Kathmandu which will likely include Bouddhanath Stupa and Swayambhunath Stupa. In the evening, join our founders for a group dinner and briefing, where you'll have the opportunity to meet other participants.

Overnight: Kathmandu (includes breakfast & dinner)
Altitude: 1,400 m.

DAY 3

Drive to Namo Buddha: Leaving Kathmandu, drive to the sacred hilltop village of Namo Buddha (1,750m), one of Nepal’s most revered Buddhist pilgrimage sites, famous for the legend of the compassionate prince who offered his body to a starving tigress. Our accommodation lies on the peaceful edge of the village—a charming organic farm resort built in traditional Newari style, surrounded by lush gardens and nestled in an abundant forest. With comfortable rooms, sustainable practices, Himalayan views, and lovingly prepared meals made from on‑site produce, it’ offers the perfect tranquil retreat.

Enjoy a soothing cup of lemongrass tea, then enjoy a freshly prepared organic lunch made from garden-picked ingredients—and afterwards, join the retreat manager for a fascinating guided tour through the vibrant, flourishing gardens.

Before dinner, sit down with Directors Fionna Heiton and Durga Aran to learn about the inspiring work of First Steps Himalaya—founded in 2008 to provide quality early years education in rural Nepal, including teacher training, classroom refurbishment, and constructing eco‑friendly classrooms—impacting hundreds of children across dozens of schools.

Driving Time: 2 hours
Overnight: Namo Buddha ( all meals included)
Altitude: 1,750 m.

DAY 4

Visit Sangachok centre:  Travel to the village of Sangachok—the central hub for our Nepal team—with a stop at a vibrant local fruit market en route. Upon arrival, explore the purpose-built Early Childhood Centre, the innovative earth-bag Teacher Training Centre, and a nearby primary school—all part of our mission to uplift educational opportunities in rural Nepal.

Enjoy a relaxed lunch at the residential training centre, where you'll meet dedicated local educators involved in First Steps' hands-on, play-based teacher development programmes. These multi-year workshops transform traditional classrooms into vibrant, nurturing environments. After an inspiring visit full of connection and learning, return to the hotel in the late afternoon with a deepened appreciation for the power of education in strengthening entire communities.

In the evening, there will be time to continue the discussion over dinner, reflecting on the day’s experiences and insights.

Driving time: 3 hours
Overnight: Namo Buddha (all meals included)
Altitude: 1,750 m

DAY 5

Namo Buddha: After a relaxed breakfast, travel the short distance to the Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery. Founded in 1978 by the esteemed 9th Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche, the monastery is perched atop a serene hill. It houses over 250 monks and serves as a center for Buddhist education and spiritual practice. The monastery is renowned for its vibrant architecture and sacred significance.

Arriving mid-morning, observe the monks' midday prayer around 11 am—a profound ritual of chanting, cymbals, and gongs in the main temple hall. This immersive experience offers a glimpse into the spiritual life of the monastery. After the prayers, spend some quiet time soaking in the atmosphere before returning to your accommodation for lunch.

In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore the surroundings at your own pace. Wander through the nearby village, experiencing local life and culture. Alternatively, participate in a Nepali cooking class, learning to prepare vegetarian dishes using fresh, garden-picked ingredients. For those seeking relaxation, unwind in the peaceful garden retreat, taking in the serene surroundings.

This blend of spiritual observance, cultural immersion, and personal exploration ensures a well-rounded, restorative day.

Overnight: Namo Buddha ( all meals included)
Altitude: 1,750 m

DAY 6

Nuwakot: After a relaxed breakfast, depart from Namo Buddha and drive back through Kathmandu, stopping at a charming café in Babar Mahal Revisited for a delightful light lunch. Nestled within a beautifully restored Rana-era palace, this tranquil courtyard restaurant offers a refined atmosphere and a menu of French classics with a modern twist. It's a serene oasis away from the city's hustle and bustle, providing a perfect setting for a leisurely meal. Explore the craft shops next to the cafe.

Following lunch, continue your journey out of Kathmandu through the lush landscapes of Shivapuri National Park, heading towards Nuwakot. Nuwakot, known as the 'City of Nine Hills,' holds significant historical importance in Nepal. It was the site of the Nuwakot Durbar, a seven-storey palace built in the 18th century by King Prithvi Narayan Shah, the first king of unified Nepal. The palace served as a strategic military base during the unification campaign and as the administrative center of the region. Although the palace suffered extensive damage during the 2015 earthquake, restoration efforts are underway, supported by international partnerships.

Upon arrival in Nuwakot, proceed to your accommodation—a lovingly restored Nepali farmhouse. Set amidst scenic surroundings, the farmhouse offers a peaceful retreat. Relax in the beautiful garden before enjoying an al fresco dinner, savoring local flavors in a serene setting.

Overnight: Kathmandu (all meals included)
Altitude: 1,400 m

DAY 7

Nuwakot: After breakfast on the terrace, embark on a scenic drive through the picturesque landscapes of Nuwakot to visit one of First Steps Himalaya's project schools. These schools, located in remote areas, have undergone significant transformations with the support of FSH.

Upon arrival, engage with educators and students to observe the impact of FSH's teacher training programmes and play-based learning initiatives. Witness firsthand how these programmes have fostered nurturing and child-friendly learning environments. Interact with the teachers to understand the challenges of working in rural Nepal and the strides being made towards quality education.

After the visit, enjoy lunch at a local eatery, before returning to your accommodation for a relaxing afternoon. Relax in the beautiful garden before enjoying an al fresco dinner, savoring local flavors in a serene setting.

Driving time: 2 hours
Overnight: Nuwakot (all meals included)
Altitude: 950 m

DAY 8

Kathmandu: After breakfast, embark on your journey back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, enjoy a leisurely afternoon with free time to explore the city and do any final shopping.

Kathmandu offers a variety of shopping experiences to suit different tastes. Enjoy your time exploring and soaking in the local culture, and picking up unique items to remember your trip.

In the evening, there will be a final group dinner where you'll have the opportunity to share your experiences and reflect on your journey.

Overnight: Kathmandu (includes breakfast & dinner)
Altitude: 1,400 m

DAY 9

Depart Kathmandu (includes breakfast)