Arise early morning and after breakfast, travel by private car to the Valley Rim at Namobuddha. This sacred Buddhist site is a major pilgrimage spot for the faithful from around the world. It is here that you find a monastery dedicated to where Lord Buddha in a previous life as a pampered prince gave his arm and his life to feed a hungry tigress so she could feed her newborn cubs. The story goes that Lord Buddha discovered a mother tiger dying of hunger, too weak to even find food to feed her newborn cubs. In an act of compassion fitting of the future Lord Buddha, he offered to her his arm to eat and ultimately his life so she could gain strength and nurse her young to adulthood. The entire gompa is a cacophony of color as it exudes such incredible sacredness, preserving for eternity the memory of this noble act. There is plenty of time to look about, light a butter lamp and see the amazing alpine scenery from here. Enjoy lunch, then head out through the jungle to walk the ridge to the ancient Newari city of Dhulikhel. The journey with your private guide takes around four hours. All along the way are wildflowers, tiny villages, terraced farms, and amazing views. Look toward the world’s highest mountains and its various ranges or back toward the Kathmandu Valley with its well-watered farmland. The journey is not difficult and features plenty of places to stop, take pictures and enjoy the views.

Finally, arrive at the ancient Newari city of Dhulikhel. The city is perched on the hillside along the Friendship Highway that leads from Kathmandu to Tibet. The city has expanded in recent years, but inside the city are ancient flagstone streets and temples. If there is time, explore the hidden temple that is in a steep valley. Unlike the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, these temples are quiet and peaceful, filled with spirituality. The journey concludes with your return to the Kathmandu Valley, following the road down through ancient cities and back to the legendary place from where you came this morning. The Sacred Alpine Day Trek is the perfect way to spend a day in the Kathmandu Valley. You escape the noise and commotion of Kathmandu while discovering for yourself the sacred as well as the wonderful beauty the Himalayas has to offer. Are you ready to go?