Cultural Immersion & Adventure in Nepal: Dashain Festival Special

15 days Sep 30 – Oct 14, 2027

5.0 (18 verified reviews)

Intimate group: max 10 travelers

Cultural immersion in Nepal with Samantha, Adrien and Sonu

Samantha, Adrien & Sonu (Nepal)

Kathmandu & sacred temples

Wildlife & jungle (Bardia)

Local life & traditions

An exclusive journey into the soul of Nepal

An exclusive 15-day journey into the heart of Nepalese traditions, hosted by two visual storytellers passionate about this breathtaking country.

Designed for an intimate group of no more than 10 travelers, this itinerary is tailored for those who wish to take their time. Far from fast-paced mass tourism, we offer you 15 days not merely to visit Nepal, but to experience it from the inside. This is an immersive and contemplative circuit, accessible to all, requiring no high-altitude mountaineering or demanding treks.

✦ The Journey Spirit

All facets of Nepal in a single holistic journey

This expedition has been meticulously crafted to reveal the striking contrasts that form the soul of Nepal. You will first immerse yourself in the vibrant heritage of Kathmandu, home to ancient Hindu and Buddhist sanctuaries. You will then ascend towards the tranquility of traditional Gurung Himalayan villages. Finally, you will explore the wildest tropical facet of the country: the pristine jungle of Bardia National Park, where local communities share their sanctuary with Royal Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinos, wild elephants, and rich birdlife.

Unforgettable Highlights

Intimate Dashain Festival Immersion (Oct 9): Celebrate Vijaya Dashami inside an authentic Tharu village in Bardia with sacred Tika rituals, blessings, and home-cooked festive feasts.
Photographic & Human Mentorship: Guidance from landscape and lifestyle photographers Adrien Noat & Samantha to elevate your visual perspective or simply relish the present moment.
Accessible Himalayan Balconies: Spectacular views of the Annapurna mountain range and Mount Machhapuchhre with gentle, accessible walks.
Ethical Bengal Tiger Tracking: Respectful walking safaris led by native Bardia master trackers (Pawan & Kiran) in a micro-group of max 10 people.

Your Expedition Hosts: Adrien & Samantha

In May 2026, Adrien and Samantha explored Nepal on an expedition with Jungle Nepal Adventure. From the bustling streets of Kathmandu to the untamed jungles of Bardia, the journey was a profound revelation, both photographically and personally. It is this heartfelt connection with the land and its people that they wish to share through this new exclusive itinerary.

Landscape & Wildlife Photographer

Adrien Noat

Landscapes, Wilderness & Natural Light

Based in the Southern French Alps, Adrien crafts his imagery around fleeting light and genuine encounters that define the soul of a destination. He will guide travelers in the field, sharing insights on landscape composition, portraits, and wildlife photography while tailoring his approach to every participant's pace. His goal: helping you develop your own photographic eye.

Focus: Composition, light & wildlife tracking

Human Stories & Moments

Samantha

Lifestyle scenes, portraits & cultural sensitivity

A passionate photographer, Samantha excels at capturing genuine scenes of daily life, subtle details, and spontaneous moments with warmth and sincerity. Touched by Nepalese hospitality on previous travels, she will assist travelers during village immersions, helping capture the essence of human connection.

Focus: Cultural immersion, spontaneity & details

💡

Our Hosts' Philosophy: Sharing a land that deeply inspired them, taking the time to create meaningful images when conditions align... while knowing when to set the cameras aside to fully absorb the magic of the moment.

🌺 Nepal's Most Celebrated Festival

The Highlight: Dashain Festival in the Heart of the Jungle

This unique departure is specifically scheduled to align with the festivities of Dashain, the most significant festival in Nepal. But instead of remaining in busy urban centers, you will celebrate it in the tranquility of Bardia's surrounding indigenous villages.

On October 9, the principal day of Vijaya Dashami, you will enjoy full immersion in a Tharu community. You will alternate between intimate moments of cultural exchange with local villagers (Tika blessings, shared festivities, traditional meals) and peaceful safaris through untouched nature. It is a rare opportunity to witness how indigenous families harmoniously co-exist with extraordinary wildlife.

Is this journey right for me?

Culture & Local Traditions

Photography & Visual Storytelling

Wildlife Tracking & Safaris

Contemplation & Tranquility

Group Size Max 10 Travelers

Physical Fitness: Accessible to all (no strenuous trekking)

Detailed Itinerary (September 30 – October 14, 2027)

A slow-paced journey focusing on immersion and contemplation. Walking distances are gentle and accessible to everyone.

Day 1 (Thu Sep 30): Arrival in Kathmandu Valley

Welcome & first impressions

Warm welcome at Tribhuvan International Airport by our team, private transfer, and check-in at the hotel. First contact with the vibrant energy of Nepal's capital.

Day 2 (Fri Oct 1): Sacred Kathmandu

Ancient temples & spiritual life

Full day dedicated to Kathmandu's most revered UNESCO World Heritage sanctuaries: Swayambhunath (the iconic Monkey Temple overlooking the valley), the great Buddhist stupa of Boudhanath, and Pashupatinath along the sacred Bagmati river.

Day 3 (Sat Oct 2): From the Valley to the Himalayan Foothills (Kathmandu – Pokhara – Ghachok)

Phewa Lake canoe & scenic journey

Scenic road transfer to Pokhara (~6h drive across valleys and rivers). Afternoon canoe ride on Phewa Lake, then a short drive up to the serene mountain village of Ghachok.

Day 4 (Sun Oct 3): Gurung Village Immersion (Ghachok)

Rural traditions & local encounters

Exploration day in this authentic Gurung mountain village. Gentle walks through agricultural terraces, observation of traditional farming, and heartwarming cultural connections.

Day 5 (Mon Oct 4): On the Annapurna Balconies

Panoramas & Mount Machhapuchhre

Gentle walk along surrounding ridgelines showcasing breathtaking panoramic views of the entire Annapurna range and the famous fishtail peak of Machhapuchhre.

Day 6 (Tue Oct 5): Nature & Himalayan Serenity

Waterfalls & creative reflections

Accessible stroll towards local waterfalls. Free afternoon for rest, contemplative writing, reviewing photos, and photo discussions with Adrien and Samantha.

Day 7 (Wed Oct 6): From Mountains to Historic Hills (Ghachok – Pokhara – Tansen)

Newari hill town of Palpa

Travel time: ~1h (Ghachok–Pokhara) + ~4h to 5h (Pokhara–Tansen).
Early departure southward along the Siddhartha Highway. Arrival in Tansen, a charming Newari merchant town perched on the Palpa hills. Exploration of cobbled alleyways and authentic local handicrafts.

Day 8 (Thu Oct 7): Down to the Wild Plains of the Terai (Tansen – Bardia)

Heading to the tiger kingdom

Travel time: ~6h drive.
A scenic overland transition descending the green hills towards Butwal and crossing the fertile Terai plains on the East-West Highway to Thakurdwara (Bardia). Check-in at our comfortable nature lodge.

Day 9 (Fri Oct 8 / Maha Navami): Into the Wild

First walking safari & festival eve

First walking safari guided by native naturalist trackers. A silent and respectful approach to observe wildlife in its natural sanctuary. By late afternoon, the festive excitement of Dashain fills the surrounding villages.

D10

Day 10 (Sat Oct 9 / Vijaya Dashami): Celebrations in Tharu Land

Peak Dashain Day

Total cultural immersion & sacred Tika ceremonies

An extraordinary day of cultural immersion.

Direct participation in the heart of Dashain celebrations with the indigenous Tharu community: sacred Tika blessings (red rice and barley sprouts placed on the forehead by elders), offerings, heartfelt exchanges, and sharing traditional holiday meals inside village homes.

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Day 11 (Sun Oct 10): Tracking the Royal Bengal Tiger

In-depth wildlife tracking & photography

Deep tracking in Bardia with our master trackers searching for Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinos, and wild elephants, with field photography guidance from Adrien.

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Day 12 (Mon Oct 11): Community Forest & Wildlife Coexistence

Conservation model & optional Tree House stay

Excursion into the community forest to discover community-led conservation and peaceful human-wildlife cohabitation. Optional overnight stay in a jungle Tree House (available as an extra).

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Day 13 (Tue Oct 12): Final Wild Incursion

Targeted safari tailored to group wishes

Final tailor-made safari session based on group sightings and preferences (waterhole hideouts, birdwatching, or following fresh feline tracks).

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Day 14 (Wed Oct 13): Return Flight to Kathmandu (Bardia – Nepalgunj – KTM)

Panoramic flight & Thamel district

Travel time: ~2h drive to Nepalgunj airport + 50 min domestic flight to Kathmandu.
Scenic mountain flight back to the capital. Afternoon exploration of the historic Thamel alleys for authentic artisan souvenirs and a farewell dinner.

D15

Day 15 (Thu Oct 14): Departure & Farewell

Airport transfer & international flight

Free morning according to flight schedules, followed by private transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport. End of an unforgettable Nepalese journey.

What is included in your journey

Included in the price (2,490 €)

✓15 days in-field guiding & photo mentorship by Adrien Noat & Samantha
✓All accommodations in double room (charming eco-lodges and traditional boutique hotels)
✓Full board during village immersions and jungle lodge safaris
✓Domestic scheduled flight Nepalgunj – Kathmandu & all private ground transport
✓Exclusive participation in Dashain festival celebrations in a Tharu village
✓Bardia National Park entry permits and official conservation fees
✓Certified native master trackers and naturalist guides
✓24/7 dedicated assistance by Robin

Not included

✕International flights to/from Kathmandu
✕Single room supplement: +390 € (optional guarantee)
✕Nepal tourist visa fee (approx. $30 to $50 upon arrival)
✕Alcoholic beverages, personal expenses, and tips
✕Mandatory personal travel and medical evacuation insurance

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be an experienced photographer to join?

Not at all! This journey is designed for all curious travelers, whether equipped with professional gear, a smartphone, or simply traveling with open eyes. Adrien and Samantha adapt their guidance to everyone's individual level and artistic desires.

Why celebrate Dashain in a village rather than Kathmandu?

During Dashain, Kathmandu largely empties as families travel to their ancestral hometowns. In Bardia's Tharu villages, the celebration is communal, intimate, and deeply authentic—allowing travelers to experience genuine cultural hospitality.

What is the group size?

This departure is strictly limited to 10 travelers maximum to ensure an intimate atmosphere, privileged access to local families, and the required quietness for wildlife tracking.

Is high physical fitness required?

No. This itinerary is rated Accessible to all. Walks are contemplative without high-altitude mountain trekking or heavy backpacks.

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Cultural Immersion & Adventure in Nepal: Dashain Festival Special

An exclusive journey into the soul of Nepal