BoudhanathAn eight-day tour of Kathmandu valley with its three main cities of Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur – crossroads of numerous hill tribes and ethnic groups. The great civilizations of Kathmandu valley have over the years left a marvelous legacy in architecture, sculpture, painting, metal work, literature, music and dance. Swayambhunath and Boudhnath are the two great stupas whose origins are lost in time, where monasteries are achant with prayer, where prayer wheels whir and the gongs call the Gods to earth. Pashupatinath, a large, gilded, three-tiered temple dedicated to Lord Shiva was built in 1696 on the banks of the sacred Bagmati river. The cremation grounds lie behind the temple complex. Fantastic for sunrise views, villages of Dhulikhel and Nagarkot set on hilltops, 30kms approx. east from Kathmandu are famous for scenic views of the snowy ranges from Cho-Oyu in the east to Himalchuli in the west. Located 14kms away from the city center and situated in a cleft on a valley is the Godavari Village Resort offering panoramic view of terraced fields and the mighty Himalayan ranges. Amongst popular local attractions are Royal Botanical Garden and Bajra Barahi temple. A 45 minutes drive south from Kathmandu lies the shrine of Dakshinkali located in a dark valley, where animal sacrifices are offered Tuesdays and Saturdays. Combined with the tour of Dakshinkali is the village of Kirtipur – well known for many historical battles fought and won.