Imagine sitting down for a home-cooked vegetarian lunch, served by resident Nepali nuns in the serene setting of a Buddhist monastery. This unique culture experience offers travelers a glimpse into the daily lives and spiritual practices of these devout women. As you savor the fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, you’ll have the opportunity to engage in thoughtful discussions, learning about the nuns’ unwavering dedication to their faith and gaining valuable insights into Nepal’s rich Buddhist heritage. What more could one hope for in a cultural adventure that promises to…
Key Points
- Enjoy a traditional Nepali vegetarian lunch prepared by resident nuns at the Nagi Gumba Monastery, providing a unique culture experience.
- Learn about Buddhist traditions and monastic life directly from the nuns during the intimate lunch setting.
- Explore the Four Noble Truths and Eightfold Path of Buddhism, gaining insights into the spiritual beliefs and practices.
- Admire the scenic views of Kathmandu Valley from the peaceful monastery setting, offering a moment of reflection.
- The lunch experience is included as part of a cultural hiking tour to the Nagi Gumba Monastery in Shivapuri National Park.
Overview of the Activity
This moderate day hike blends culture with the natural beauty of Shivapuri National Park, offering travelers an enriching experience in the Kathmandu Valley.
The activity starts at the foot of the park, leading hikers on a scenic trail to the Nagi Gumba Monastery.
At the monastery, travelers will meet the resident nuns, learn about Buddhism, and enjoy a traditional Nepali lunch with them.
This unique opportunity provides insights into Nepali culture, traditions, and religion, all while taking in the breathtaking views of the Kathmandu Valley.
It’s a perfect way to combine outdoor adventure with cultural exploration.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Kathmandu.
Inclusions and Pricing
The activity includes several key inclusions to enhance the experience, such as the national park fees, a provided lunch, and the services of a professional guide. Travelers also enjoy the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off in the Thamel area.
The activity offers several key inclusions:
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National park fees are covered, providing access to the natural wonder of Shivapuri National Park.
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A delicious lunch is provided, allowing travelers to savor authentic Nepali cuisine with the resident nuns.
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A professional guide leads the way, sharing insights into the local culture and traditions throughout the experience.
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Hotel pickup and drop-off in the Thamel area ensure a seamless and hassle-free start and end to the day.
Meeting and Pickup Details
Travelers can either head directly to the meeting point or request pickup from the Thamel area for this activity.
The meeting point is at the Karmachari Sanchaya Kosh Building, near the main entrance of the Garden of Dream. This convenient location makes it easy for participants to find and start the experience.
The pickup service from Thamel is a nice option for those who prefer not to make their own way to the meeting point.
Either way, the activity provides a seamless start, allowing travelers to focus on the exciting monastery visit and culture ahead.
With confirmation received at the time of booking, travelers can plan their day with confidence.
National Park Fees
One of the key inclusions in this activity is the national park fees, which cover the entry costs into Shivapuri National Park, the starting point of the hike to the monastery. This fee ensures travelers can access the beautiful natural surroundings and lush forest trails leading up to the Nagi Gumba Monastery.
Some key benefits of the national park fees include:
- Maintaining the park’s infrastructure and trails for a safe and enjoyable hiking experience
- Funding conservation efforts to protect the park’s diverse flora and fauna
- Providing employment opportunities for local guides and park staff
- Ensuring the long-term sustainability of this unique natural and cultural attraction
Lunch With Resident Nuns
Dining with the resident nuns at the Nagi Gumba Monastery offers travelers an immersive cultural experience, allowing them to learn about the nuns’ daily lives and Buddhist traditions over a shared meal.
Visitors will sit down with the nuns and enjoy a simple yet delicious vegetarian lunch, prepared using local, fresh ingredients. This intimate setting provides a unique opportunity to ask questions, gain insights into monastic life, and understand the nuns’ devotion to their faith.
Learning About Buddhism
At the Nagi Gumba Monastery, visitors can explore the foundations of Buddhism, exploring the religion’s core tenets and practices through engaging discussions with the resident nuns. The nuns are eager to share their knowledge and insights, providing a unique opportunity for travelers to understand the philosophical concepts that underpin Buddhist ideology.
During the visit, visitors can expect to learn about:
- The Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, which outline the path to enlightenment
- The principle of impermanence and the concept of non-self
The role of meditation in cultivating mindfulness and reducing suffering.
The significance of Buddhist symbols, rituals, and daily monastic life.
This immersive experience offers a profound window into the rich spiritual tradition of Nepal.
Kathmandu Valley Views
As travelers ascend the winding path to the Nagi Gumba Monastery, they’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramas of the Kathmandu Valley. From the monastery’s elevated vantage point, visitors can gaze out over the sprawling cityscape, taking in the patchwork of rooftops, lush greenery, and distant mountain peaks that define this captivating region.
The views from the monastery offer a unique perspective on Kathmandu’s diverse landscape, showcasing both the urban and natural elements that make this destination so visually striking. Travelers can take in the scene while enjoying a peaceful moment of reflection, immersed in the tranquility of the monastery setting.
View Highlights | |
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Panoramic Vistas | Sprawling City |
Lush Green Hills | Distant Peaks |
Patchwork Rooftops | Peaceful Retreat |
Cancellation Policy
Travelers can receive a full refund if they cancel their experience at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time. However, no refund will be provided for cancellations made less than 24 hours prior to the activity.
This cancellation policy is designed to ensure the organizers can plan and prepare appropriately for each group.
Refunds are processed quickly and conveniently through the original booking method. The policy applies to all participants, regardless of group size.
Cancellations must be communicated directly to the tour operator to qualify for a refund. Unexpected circumstances may be considered on a case-by-case basis at the operator’s discretion.
Recap
The Lunch with Nuns – Monastery experience offers a remarkable opportunity to take in Nepal’s vibrant spiritual heritage.
Visitors enjoy a delicious vegetarian meal prepared by resident nuns and gain valuable insights into monastic life and Buddhist traditions.
This intimate setting allows for meaningful exchanges, fostering a profound understanding of the country’s rich religious practices.
It’s an unforgettable cultural experience that seamlessly blends outdoor adventure and spiritual exploration.
More Lunch Experiences in Kathmandu
- Kathmandu: Top 4 UNESCO Sites Private/Group Tour with Lunch
- Kathmandu: Trisuli River Rafting Day Trip with Lunch
- Kathmandu: Dhulikhel to NamoBuddha Day Hike with Lunch
- Kathmandu: Shivapuri Day Hike with Lunch
- Kathmandu: Shivapuri National Park Day Hike with Lunch box
- Kathmandu: Top 4 UNESCO Tour with Lunch – Private/Group
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