Tour Leaders Clinical Herbalist and Ayurvedic Practitioner, Todd Caldecott has been in private practice for over a decade. Aside from his medical training in Herbal Medicine and Ayurveda, his studies have been diverse, including classical Indian (carnatic) music and Buddhist meditation. Our Special Guest Teacher, Vaidya Madhu Bajra Bajracharya was born into Ayurvedic traditions and acquired much of his knowledge from his renowned father. He is a highly regarded Ayurvedic physician with patients from across the world, and is helping to modernize the Ayurvedic field. Read more about Todd and Vaidya Madhu on our About Your Tour Leaders page.
 

Join us on an amazing experiential adventure through the Kathmandu Valley in Nepal to discover the fascinating art and science of Ayurveda. Thought by many to be the original home and birthplace of Ayurveda, Nepal is one of the richest countries in the world in terms of its biodiversity. Because of its unique geographical position, its varied terrain provides ideal conditions for an array of herbs, flowers and aromatic plants to grow, which not only add to the scenic beauty of Nepal, but are highly effective medicinal plants used in Ayurvedic therapies.

Encompassed by the intoxicating view of the majestic Himalayas you will wander through the Kathmandu Valley to admire the fascinating flora. Come face to face with many of the flowers, herbs and medicinal plants used in Ayurvedic remedies and connect with their spiritual and healing energies.

Through the guidance of your Tour Leader, Todd Caldecott and Special Guest Teacher, Vaidya Madhu Bajra Bajracharya, as well as other Ayurvedic practitioners and physicians, you will learn, experience, and witness all that Ayurveda has to offer. Obtain a wealth of information through fascinating lectures, and visits to Ayurvedic Clinics, Healing Centres and Herbal Pharmacies. Witness authentic Ayurvedic practices and treatments as well as the preparation of time-honoured Ayurvedic remedies. Study a variety of herbs and medicinal plants with experienced Ayurvedic physicians and deepen your knowledge and appreciation for this ancient wisdom which influenced Chinese, Arabic, Greek, Tibetan and modern medicine.

Throughout the journey you will have the opportunity to spend much free time in fascinating Kathmandu, the fabled “Shangri-La”, a city rich in art, culture and heritage. Wander through its maze of narrow lanes, immerse yourself in the swirling activity, and wonder at the inspiring temples and palaces.

Enjoy visits to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Changu Narayan Temple, the oldest Hindu temple in the Kathmandu Valley, as well as many sacred sites such as Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most important places of pilgrimage for followers of Hinduism, Boudhanath Stupa, one of the holiest Buddhist sites in Nepal, and Swayambhunath, an ancient sacred Buddhist complex.

A highlight of the journey is the unique opportunity to experience the exuberant Holi Festival, the “Festival of Colour and Water”. Gather in the streets of Kathmandu and envelop yourself with the exciting activity while dodging the playful throws of water and vermillion powder filled balloons which are hurled at passersby. With all splashed in an array of vibrant paints and colours, admire the animated processions accompanied by folk songs, dances and a general sense of abandoned vitality.

End off this inspirational and once-in-a-lifetime experience in Nepal with a little pampering. Enjoy a luxurious Ayurvedic Massage by experienced Ayurvedic Therapists to relax, renew and rejuvenate – a wonderfully indulgent finale in this fascinating land.

Make the most of your time in this captivating area of Asia, and continue your adventure to India with our optional extension, In the Footsteps of Lord Buddha - A Cultural Exploration of the Sacred Sites of India. As you make your way to India from Nepal, you will trace the footsteps of the Buddha: his birthplace in Lumbini, the place of his enlightenment in Bodhgaya, the site of his last sermon in Kushinagar, and more! Delve into the world of Hinduism as well with a visit to sacred Varanasi, known as the heart of India, and explore popular sites such as the Agra Fort and the majestic Taj Mahal.