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NEPAL

Kathmandu, Dhulikhel, Panauti, Bandipur, Pokhara and more

BHUTAN

THAILAND

VIETNAM

CAMBODIA

NEPAL

Heaven on Earth… Ancient villages, breathtaking landscapes and beautiful people.

An ancient Hindu manuscript describes Kathmandu, Nepal as the “Land of Gods surrounded by beautiful mountains”. The capital of modern Nepal is nestled in the middle of the snow-capped Himalayan Mountains, in a valley surrounded by gentle, green terraced hills, ancient temples, shrines and red tiled-roofed houses. The Kathmandu valley hosts three districts that were previously part of different empires. Bhaktapur is the “City of Devotees”, filled with ancient Hindu and Buddhist religious sites; Patan (or Lalitpur) is the “City of Beauty”, famous for its wood and stone carvings and bas-reliefs; Kathmandu is the “City of Temples” – with its famous Durbar Square, which is the social, religious and urban focal point of the city, filled with exquisite monuments, sculptures and temples. 

After Kathmandu valley we enter Bandipur, an ethnic local village with panoramic mountain views. Next up Pokhara, where your eyes will behold snowy mountain landscapes. You will pass through little hamlets and villages on the way that will give you some deep insights into Nepal’s rural lifestyles. Finally you reach Pokhara, a beautiful scenic lake town where nature is amplified with the views of majestic peaks almost at touching distance, and clean water lakes with boating and canoeing. You will also see some natural wonders of nature in waterfalls and gorges and at dusk when the sun dips behind the mountains, and glimpses of twilight lighten up the skies that herald the end of day.

This adventure is designed not only to guide you to the most photogenic locations carefully planned for the best light, but to aid you in mentally visualizing a scene before capturing the decisive moment. Our aim is to raise your awareness and spark your creativity so that you not only go home with images to be proud of, but use your new found skills to improve and expand your photographic technique in general. Apart from the technical aspect of learning your camera settings and capabilities, you will learn how to turn an ordinary image into an extraordinary image by using your own creativity.

In addition, you will become knowledgeable on how to survey the landscape, utilize and approach your environment, photograph people indigenous to the region and the cultural considerations and challenges of photographing in a foreign country. Our time together will include individual and group discussions, inspiring ideas and great fun. We cannot think of a better location to express your creativity than the exotic country of Nepal.

Photographic Highlights of the Trip – People and close-up composition photo opportunities.

1. Photography tour around the City of Kathmandu: The largest Buddhist Stupa in Nepal is Boudhanath and the most popular Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva – Pashupatinath – Photo shoots of People (offering prayers in and around the temple), Stupa, Monks, “Sadhus”, Holy Men, “Yogis”, Street vendors and shopkeepers.
2. City of Artisans –Patan, Bhaktapur and Changu Narayan. Photo shoots of Local artists / artisans, Local Vendors plying their trade on the streets, unique cultural identity of Newari community, people in their traditional attire.
3. Pre-arranged photo shoot with the “Tamang” community, people to capture their unique lifestyle and cultural identity.
4. Experience the village life of a Home Stay.
5. Lifestyle of the Nepali people following the traditional and the modern way.
6. The beautiful ethnic village and panoramic mountain views of Bandipur.
7. The majestic sights of snow-capped mountain peaks and exquisite beauty of Pokhara.
8. Sunset view from World Peace Stupa and sunrise view from Sarankot, Pokhara.
9. Boating in Serene Phewa Lake and visiting the amazing Barahi Temple in the middle of the lake.

After Kathmandu valley we enter Bandipur, an ethnic local village with panoramic mountain views. Next up Pokhara, where your eyes will behold snowy mountain landscapes. You will pass through little hamlets and villages on the way that will give you some deep insights into Nepal’s rural lifestyles. Finally you reach Pokhara, a beautiful scenic lake town where nature is amplified with the views of majestic peaks almost at touching distance, and clean water lakes with boating and canoeing. You will also see some natural wonders of nature in waterfalls and gorges and at dusk when the sun dips behind the mountains, and glimpses of twilight lighten up the skies that herald the end of day.

This adventure is designed not only to guide you to the most photogenic locations carefully planned for the best light, but to aid you in mentally visualizing a scene before capturing the decisive moment. Our aim is to raise your awareness and spark your creativity so that you not only go home with images to be proud of, but use your new found skills to improve and expand your photographic technique in general. Apart from the technical aspect of learning your camera settings and capabilities, you will learn how to turn an ordinary image into an extraordinary image by using your own creativity.

In addition, you will become knowledgeable on how to survey the landscape, utilize and approach your environment, photograph people indigenous to the region and the cultural considerations and challenges of photographing in a foreign country. Our time together will include individual and group discussions, inspiring ideas and great fun. We cannot think of a better location to express your creativity than the exotic country of Nepal.

Photographic Highlights of the Trip – People and close-up composition photo opportunities.

1. Photography tour around the City of Kathmandu: The largest Buddhist Stupa in Nepal is Boudhanath and the most popular Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva – Pashupatinath – Photo shoots of People (offering prayers in and around the temple), Stupa, Monks, “Sadhus”, Holy Men, “Yogis”, Street vendors and shopkeepers.
2. City of Artisans –Patan, Bhaktapur and Changu Narayan. Photo shoots of Local artists / artisans, Local Vendors plying their trade on the streets, unique cultural identity of Newari community, people in their traditional attire.
3. Pre-arranged photo shoot with the “Tamang” community, people to capture their unique lifestyle and cultural identity.
4. Experience the village life of a Home Stay.
5. Lifestyle of the Nepali people following the traditional and the modern way.
6. The beautiful ethnic village and panoramic mountain views of Bandipur.
7. The majestic sights of snow-capped mountain peaks and exquisite beauty of Pokhara.
8. Sunset view from World Peace Stupa and sunrise view from Sarankot, Pokhara.
9. Boating in Serene Phewa Lake and visiting the amazing Barahi Temple in the middle of the lake.

Group Size

4-8 Guests

Experience | Difficulty

  • Beginner, amateur, enthusiast and semi-pro photographers
  • DSLR, mirrorless, compact or iPhone cameras
  • Moderate schedule
  • Travel by walking, car or minibus
  • Moderate elevation changes and lots of walking (hiking optional)
  • (non-photographers also welcome)

Weather | Sun

October – Temps 65-74/50-59 F  19-23/10-15 C  Sunrise 5:58 | Sunset 5:46 (17:46)

Includes

  • 10 Days
  • Travel, landscape, architecture, people, nature and photography
  • Professional photographer | guide
  • Photo walks & discussions
  • Small group size (4-8 guests)
  • Fine Accommodations (Home Stays in remote locations)
  • Breakfasts
  • 6 Meals including Welcome and Farewell Dinners
  • Local transportation
  • Entry fees

Travel Information

Arrival & Departure Airport: Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, Nepal (KTM)
Our adventure begins at 2 PM on the first day and ends at noon on the last day.
Travel Visa: A visa may be required depending on your nationality. Go to Visa Map to find out.

Accommodations

Kathmandu – Dwarika’s Hotel, Hyatt Regency  or similar
Bhaktapur – Milla Guest House, Hotel Heritage or similar
Panauti – Panauti Community Home Stay
Bandipur – Old Inn or similar
Pokhara – Fishtail Lodge or similar

Helpful Links

Photographing Nepal – by Ian Robert Knight

Nepal Prices & Dates


AdventurePriceREGISTER
From: $9,795
From: $9,795

Nepal & Bhutan Prices & Dates

Combination tours include a flight between destinations, and one hotel night.


Photographer Leader

Photographer Leader

Lorenz Berna

October 8-17, 2024
October 7-16, 2025

*All prices are per person and based on double occupancy. Please select single occupancy for a private room. For your convenience, we offer optional early arrival and late departure accommodations so you can extend your stay before or after the trip. We typically stay in upscale boutique hotels in the 4 and 5-star category. Not all destinations offer these types of properties. We look for unique hotels that offer cultural, historic, and/or authentic features. Depending on the size of the group, smaller boutique hotels may have limited room inventory. In some countries or in remote locations, we may be limited to lodges or branded chain hotels. In Cuba, we stay in upscale family-owned Casas (bread & breakfasts). On all of our tours, breakfast is almost always included, but not guaranteed. Meal categories listed include (B) for breakfast, (L) for lunch, and (D) for dinner.

UPCOMING WORKSHOPS

NEPAL 10 DAYS

Day 1 | Arrive Kathmandu

It is a panoramic thrill flying into Kathmandu on a clear day. The views of snow-capped mountain peaks sprawling down below you are almost ecstatic, beginning a whole chain of memorable experiences that stay with you for a long, long time.

We will pick you up at Tribhuvan International Airport upon your arrival. Our driver and local guide will escort you to our hotel. We suggest you arrive one day early to avoid jet lag and settle into our hotel. Day one will begin at 2 PM in the lobby of our hotel. We begin with informal discussions on what our guests are trying to achieve in their photography, subject matters, styles and techniques. We’ll discuss PWA’s “10 Guiding Principles to Great Photography” as well as our “THE ART OF SEEING” photographic technique.

Afterwards we explore the city for an afternoon of photography followed by our “Welcome Dinner” celebration at one of our favorite Nepali restaurants. (D)

Day 2 | Pashupatinath - Boudhanath

We depart early just after sunrise to make our way to Pashupatinath. The most popular Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva “Pashupatinath” is one of a kind, located on the banks of the Bagmati River. Pashupatinath is home to many Sadhus (known as Holy Men) and many Hindu Pilgrims from all around the world come here to pray. There are many small shops, street vendors set up around so that you can buy items for offering.

After Pashupatinath, we will drive to Boudhanath, which is the largest Buddhist Stupa in Nepal. Surrounded by Tibetan restaurants and Tibetan handicraft shops Boudhanath can also be called a Tibetan social hub. Since this is a Buddhist monument, you will see many monks praying in the area. It is a great destination to shoot the pictures of Tibetan street vendors, Monks and many Buddhist people visiting for evening prayer near the Stupa. After we drive back to our hotel in Kathmandu. (B)

Day 3 | Patan Durbar Square - Changu Narayan - Bhaktapur

We will begin the morning with a drive to Patan. Patan is regarded as the richest cultural and historical of the three Durbar Squares. It offers a wide array of wooden arts in the form of monumental historic edifices that reflect the architectural influence in the city during ancient and medieval times. The creative wooden carvings depicting the sutras of Lord Kamadeva (God of Human love or desire) are scattered throughout the pagoda style temples in the backstreets. Patan, the city of Artists, offers many visual treats for your camera.

We drive to Bhaktapur, the city of Devotees. Along the way we stop in Thimi, one of the ancient, cultural and historical places, famous for its Pottery and Papier-mâché Masks. After Thimi we make our way to the ancient Hindu temple of Changu Narayan located on a high hilltop that is also known as Changu or Dolagiri. The temple was surrounded by forest with champak trees and a small village, known as Changu Village. The area is not too developed and people there depend on agriculture and small business run in the shops near the temple. One can find a few examples of rural Nepal in this place.

Later on we make our way towards our final city for the day which is Bhaktapur. The Durbar Square is not just a historical place but also a place for the local people to earn their livelihood. The area is surrounded with small shops and local business and perfect for street photography. The handcrafted pottery is famous in this area and tourists are allowed to see the creative process upon request. Since we will be staying overnight in one of the guesthouses in the Durbar Square area, we will do an evening photo walk and capture the local lifestyle. (B)

Day 4 | Dhulikhel - Panauti

After breakfast we head to Dhulikhel, one of the most popular destinations to observe the high Himalaya. From the edge of the ridge, a stunning panorama of peaks unfolds, from Langtang Lirung in the east, through Dorje Lhakpa to the huge bulk of Gaurishankar and nearby Melungtse (23,560 ft / 7181 m) and as far as Numbur (19,505 ft / 5945 m) in the east. The old town escaped the 2015 earthquake with little damage. There’s more to Dhulikhel than breathtaking views though. This is a real Newari town, with a temple-lined village square and a life outside of exposing tourists to the views. In Dhulikhel, you can capture the amazing picture of Himalayan range, traditional local culture and life.

Later on we will transfer to Panauti village for a Home Stay experience. You will be engaging with the local family where you will be welcomed with “tika and garland” followed by a welcome speech and welcome drinks. After lunch our local guide will take us for a tour of old Panauti, as well as involve you in seasonal activities so that you can interact with the locals. In the evening you get to learn about Nepali food which has been prepared for you with the family. Overnight at our Home Stay. (B) (L) (D)

Day 5 | Tamang Village - Panauti

Early in the morning a host of the home stay will take us to view the sunrise. Soon after breakfast we will head to Chamkharka village (a Tamang village) where you will be able to observe the Tamang lifestyle. A pre-arranged photo shoot of the Tamang people will be the highlight of the day for you. In the evening you can enjoy a dancing and singing program while tasting local wine and ending your day with a Nepali meal. Overnight at Homestay. (B) (L) (D)

Day 6 | Tamang Village - Bandipur

This morning we will begin the day with some daily puja (a prayer ritual) with our family, followed by breakfast. After, we drive to Bandipur, a hilltop village and charismatic settlement lying in the center of Kathmandu Pokhara highway in the Tanahun district. Situated at an altitude of only 3297 ft / 1005 m from sea level, Bandipur has the Marshyandi River flowing beneath it. The place is dominated by the Newar and Magar ethnic groups. We will explore around the village where you will find many photographic opportunities. From the ridge of the Bandipur town, one can capture amazing panoramic mountain views, artistic houses, visit pagoda roofed temples and more. (B)

Day 7 | Siddha Cave - Pokhara - World Peace Pagoda

In the early morning, we will walk to the largest cave of the country “Siddha Gufa” which is full of stalactites and stalagmites. After exploring a beautiful ethnic village and the largest cave, we drive to Pokhara.

Pokhara is Nepal’s famous tourist area which is the mixture of adventure as well as leisure travel. It is a gateway for trekking in Annapurna region with plenty of entertainment for all the travelers from young to old. You can experience trekking, boating, hiking, paragliding, cycling, sightseeing or simply relax at one of the lakes near the city with the stunning Annapurna mountain range in the background.

After reaching Pokhara we visit the World Peace stupa which is the Buddhist Pagoda style monument balanced on a narrow ridge above Phewa Lake. (B)

Day 8 | Sarankot - Pokhara - Seti Gorge - Davis Falls - Phewa

Pokhara, a charming city and one of the most famous tourist destinations in Nepal, offers fabulous scenic views. We will take a short hike to Sarankot, located at an altitude of 5223 ft / 1592 m. It is the highest point on the Pokhara valley rim. From here you can see the whole Pokhara Valley and the Annapurna ranges — Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Machapuchare, Annapurna III, Annapurna II, Annapurna IV and Lamjung Himal.

In the afternoon we explore Pokhara which includes Seti Gorge, Mahendra Cave and Davis Falls. In the evening we will go on a boat ride on Phewa Lake and visit Barahi Temple situated in the middle of the lake. (B) 

Day 9 | Kathmandu

In the morning we fly back to Kathmandu and transfer to our hotel. This day is a free day for you to enjoy leisure time or return to a previous location you would like to recapture. Or we can add an alternate activity or photo shoot upon your request.

In the evening we prepare for our festive “Farewell Dinner”, discuss the events of the trip, share our favorite photos and enjoy the fun and laughter. (B) (D)

Day 10 | Kathmandu

After breakfast our Nepalese support team will take you to the airport for your flight home. We urge you to extend your stay in Asia and make good use of everything you will learn on our photo adventure. (B)

NOTE: This adventure is followed by our Kingdom of Bhutan Photo Adventure. Combine both for 20 amazing days in the Himalayas. Combination pricing includes additional hotel night, international flight from Nepal to Bhutan, and airport transfers.

 

Add our 10-Day “Bhutan” tour for 20 days of culture and photography.

(B) Breakfast, (L) Lunch, (D) Dinner, (E) Excursion

 

May all who come as guests... leave as friends®

 

OPTIONS AND BENEFITS

Pricing

All prices are per person and based on double occupancy. Please select single occupancy for a private room. For your convenience, we offer optional early arrival and late departure accommodations so you can extend your stay before or after the trip. We typically stay in boutique hotels in the 4-star category. Not all destinations offer these types of properties. We look for unique hotels which offer cultural, historic and/or authentic features. Depending on the size of the group, smaller boutique hotels may have limited room inventory. In some countries or in remote locations, we may be limited to lodges or branded chain hotels. Breakfast is included only if included in our room rates.

Private Guided Adventures

We offer amazing private guided photo adventures, cultural tours and vacations for individuals, couples, families and groups. We can customize any of our published adventures, as well as others, to meet your individual needs, schedule, budget and interests. This may include the finest 5-star accommodations, business-class travel, and private guides and fixers who are able to make the impossible possible. If you are not interested in a photo-centric vacation, but you love our approach to private travel, we will be happy to design and deliver an amazing adventure focused on travel, culture and cuisine. Click here to request a quote. Feel free to call us at 1-888-834-0288 or contact us for more information.

Travel Insurance

We offer travel insurance through the internationally recognized Travelex Travel Insurance Company, as well as evacuation and medical transportation insurance through MedJet, one of the best in the industry.

The cost for travel insurance can be as low as 4% of the total trip cost, depending upon age and other factors. Knowing you have trip cancellation coverage can make a big difference should you have to cancel for some unforeseen reason. Travelex Insurance Services is a BBB Accredited business with an A+ rating. Click here to learn more about why you should consider travel insurance.

Rewards Program

Start earning points today and SAVE $200 - $900 off future trips!
Simply register for one of our amazing photo adventures and begin earning points today!

How The Program Works
For every adventure reservation you make with Photo Workshop Adventures, you earn valuable points which you can redeem on your next trip. This is a great way to save up to 8% off future trips. Our Rewards Program is designed with three tiers: Orange, Gold and VIP Members. Points may be applied towards balance payments on your next trip, or you may choose to accumulate points for a free trip in the future.

ORANGE REWARDS
All guests begin with our Orange Rewards Program (Level 1), which earns 4 points for every dollar you spend. You begin earning points immediately after your first trip. A $5,900 spend earns 23,600 points with a value of $236 USD.

GOLD REWARDS
With our Gold Rewards Program (Level 2), you earn 6 points for every dollar you spend. Orange Members who reach 120,000 accumulated lifetime* points (approx. 4-6 trips), automatically move up to Gold Rewards. A $5,900 spend earns 35,400 points with a value of $354 USD.

Additional Gold Benefits:

  • Earn up to double points during promotional events
  • Advance notifications for upcoming adventures and special offers

VIP REWARDS
With our VIP Rewards Program (Level 3), you earn 8 points for every dollar you spend. Gold Members who reach 350,000 accumulated lifetime* points (approx. 8-12 trips) move up to VIP Rewards. A $5,900 spend earns 47,200 points with a value of $472 USD, (8+/-% discount).

Additional VIP Benefits:

  • Earn up to double points during promotional events
  • Advance notifications for upcoming adventures and special offers
  • Ability to Gift or Transfer points to others
  • Receive complimentary airport transfers at the destination location*

Redeeming Your Points
Redeeming your points couldn’t be easier. You can always log in to your account to check your points balance. When you are ready to book your next trip, register and pay your deposit. When you go to pay your balance you will be given the option to apply your points and receive a discount.

THINK ORANGE Magazine

Subscribe to our Think Orange Magazine and eNews. THINK ORANGE is a wonderful mix of stories and tips related to travel, photography, adventure, culture, art, technology, cuisine, lifestyle, people and more. Our objective is to immerse you in a world you may only fantasize about. Raise your awareness and inspire your creativity. Perhaps even help make you a better photographer. We deliver similar experiential experiences that our guests enjoy on our photo adventures. Like all of our adventures, our blog is “photo-centric”, while also allowing you to experience all the nuances and cultural aspects of travel and adventure. Welcome to our world. We hope you enjoy. Our eNews is a great way to receive information about upcoming photo adventures, exciting new destinations, photography tips, special offers and more. Subscribe today!

Gift Cards

Give someone you know a Gift Card, good toward any of our Photo  Adventures, Photo Tours, Private Guided Tours, Online Courses, Prints or Merchandize. Our beautifully personalized eGift Cards and Certificates are delivered to you electronically. They are fully transferable and have a 2 year expiration date. They are available in any amount from $100 to $5000. It makes a great gift for anyone who loves photography, travel or adventure. Order now, or email for more information.

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