DAILY RUNDOWN

Day 1 – Arrival in Boudha
Your journey begins at the threshold of Boudhanath, one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in Nepal. After settling into the quiet comfort of Hotel Dolma Ling, you’ll gather with fellow pilgrims for orientation and your first circle of community. As the sun begins to set, we step into the mandala of the Great Stupa with James as our guide, letting the turning of prayer wheels and the flow of pilgrims usher us into the spirit of the valley. The evening concludes with a warm welcome dinner, marking the beginning of our shared adventure.

Day 2 – Sacred Sites of Kathmandu
The day opens with meditation and asana practice to ground body and mind. Each morning, while here in Boudha, we’ll have the incredible opportunity to practice in a Tibetan Buddhist monastery — it’s quite spectacular! From there, we set out to the “Monkey Temple,” Swayambhunath, whose ancient spire crowns the Kathmandu Valley. Continuing south, the path leads to Pharping, a place alive with legends and blessings. Along the way we pause at the Big Buddhas and the gorge of Manjushri before visiting Asura Cave, the Vajrayogini Temple, and the great statue of Padmasambhava. Returning by evening, we wander the lively streets of Thamel before sharing a traditional meal at Thamel House.

Day 3 – Teachings and Rituals
The rhythm of practice continues with morning meditation and asana. After breakfast, the afternoon brings a dharma teaching at a nearby monastery, followed by a heartfelt visit to the Quilts for Kids camp — a favorite experience of many — Q4K is the non-profit that James started to send local underprivileged girls to school. As evening approaches, we arrive at Pashupatinath, where the Bagmati River reflects the glow of sunset and the haunting beauty of evening puja unfolds before us. Returning to Boudha, the night is yours to rest or explore.

Day 4 – Hillside Monasteries
This day draws us into the quiet hills above Kathmandu. After early meditation, we journey to Nagi Gompa, a peaceful nunnery nestled in the Shivapuri forest. There we’ll receive teachings, practice and have Q&A with the nuns followed by an incredible lunch they prepare just for us. After sharing lunch with the community, we then trek through wooded paths to Pullahari Monastery, where sweeping views and golden light invite stillness. The evening returns us to Boudha, free for rest, reflection, and preparation for the days to come.

Day 5 – Bhaktapur and Journey to Namo Buddha
A final morning practice in Boudha begins the transition to the next stage of pilgrimage. With luggage in tow, we set off for Bhaktapur, a medieval city — and one of the three ancient kingdoms of the valley — alive with artisans, temples, and timeless squares. After a leisurely afternoon of exploration and lunch on your own, we continue toward the hills, arriving at the serene Namo Buddha Resort. As dusk settles, we gather for dinner and settle into this sanctuary of quiet forests and far-reaching views.

Day 6 – Settling into Namo Buddha
Life here unfolds in a slower rhythm. We begin with meditation and asana, followed by a relaxed breakfast. The day offers open time for rest, journaling, or simply breathing in the mountain air. After lunch, we reconvene for a sangha circle and evening meditation before dining together in the glow of candlelight.

Day 7 – Workshops and Guidance
Morning practice opens the body and mind to the day ahead. The afternoon invites a deeper dive into yoga with a workshop led by Tim Feldmann, blending his decades of practice with the teachings of the pilgrimage. Later, Cory leads meditation, offering Buddhist methods of stillness and insight. The day closes with shared dinner and community reflection.

Day 8 – The Stupa of Compassion
After morning practice and a leisurely breakfast, the day opens into freedom for personal retreat until lunch. In the afternoon, we take a gentle hike to the sacred Namo Buddha Stupa and Thrangu Monastery—a site honoring the Buddha’s great act of compassion. The walk itself becomes meditation, a weaving of breath, devotion, and landscape. Evening brings us back for gathering, meditation, and dinner together.

Day 9 – Integration at Namo Buddha
This final full day at Namo Buddha echoes the rhythm we’ve come to cherish: meditation, asana, nourishing meals, and time for rest. A final workshop with Tim offers inspiration and clarity for practice, while Cory’s evening meditation guides us inward. Dinner that night feels both celebratory and contemplative, as we prepare to return to the valley with hearts full.

Day 10 – Return and Farewell
Our last morning of practice at Namo Buddha closes the retreat portion of the journey. After breakfast and departure, we travel back to Boudha. The afternoon is yours—time for final shopping, reflection, or simply walking once more around the Great Stupa. In the evening, we gather at James’ home for a quilt viewing and happy hour before sharing a farewell dinner, celebrating all that has been discovered and shared.

Day 11 – Departure
With gratitude and blessings, airport transfers begin. Carrying the memories of sacred sites, the warmth of community, and the renewed strength of practice, you return home—bringing with you the timeless gifts of Nepal and the Dharma.