Beyond the Eastern Himalayas

Nepal

Old royal cities, lakeside hill towns and the Himalaya on the horizon.

Nepal pairs the living heritage of the Kathmandu Valley with the lakes, forests and mountain views of the hills beyond. It is a short hop from the Eastern Himalayas, and a natural second chapter to a Darjeeling or Sikkim holiday.

Overview

Why Nepal

Nepal's appeal is its range. In the Kathmandu Valley, medieval royal cities, working temples and stupas sit within a few kilometres of one another, and many are still part of daily worship rather than museum pieces. A few hours away, the pace changes: lakes, terraced hills, small towns and national park forest.

Most journeys are built around two or three bases. Kathmandu (with Patan and Bhaktapur) carries the cultural weight. Pokhara adds a lake, easy walks and mountain views on clear mornings. Hill towns such as Bandipur and Nagarkot, and the lowland forests of Chitwan, suit travellers who want a quieter or more wildlife-led second half.

We shape each Nepal itinerary around how you like to travel. Some guests want a heritage-focused long weekend; others want a slower mix of culture, scenery and a wildlife stay. Because road and flight times in Nepal can change with weather and traffic, we plan with comfortable margins.

Best suited to: Travellers who enjoy living heritage, lakeside leisure and gentle hill scenery, including families and those adding a short international leg to an Eastern Himalayas holiday.

Experiences and attractions

What to see and do

Kathmandu Valley heritage

  • Kathmandu Durbar SquareThe old royal palace complex of Hanuman Dhoka and surrounding temples, best explored with a guide who can explain the architecture and the living traditions around it.
  • SwayambhunathA hilltop stupa west of the city with wide valley views. It is a working Buddhist and Hindu site, so dress modestly and walk clockwise around shrines.
  • BoudhanathOne of the largest stupas in the world, ringed by monasteries and shops. Early morning and dusk, when pilgrims circle the stupa, are the most atmospheric times.
  • PashupatinathA major Hindu temple complex on the Bagmati river. Entry to the main temple is restricted to Hindus, but non-Hindu visitors can view the complex and the river ghats from the opposite bank.
  • Patan and BhaktapurPatan (Lalitpur) is known for its Newar craft traditions and temple courtyards; Bhaktapur, around 13 km east of Kathmandu, keeps a quieter, more medieval townscape.

Pokhara and the lakes

  • Phewa LakeA calm lake for a slow boat ride, with the Annapurna range visible on clear mornings.
  • SarangkotA hilltop viewpoint reached by road, popular for sunrise views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre peaks, weather permitting.
  • World Peace PagodaA hilltop stupa across the lake, reached by boat and a short climb or by road.
  • Old Bazaar and museumsA relaxed look at Pokhara's local life, with the International Mountain Museum a useful introduction to Himalayan climbing history.

Hill towns and wildlife

  • BandipurA preserved Newar hill town on a ridge, car-free in its main bazaar, good for slow walks and viewpoints.
  • NagarkotA ridge east of Kathmandu, around 32 km away, used for Himalayan views and a night away from the city.
  • Chitwan National ParkA lowland park with grassland and sal forest, known for the one-horned rhinoceros and rich birdlife. Jeep and canoe safaris and Tharu cultural experiences are the usual highlights.

Suggested itineraries

Nepal sample journeys

Starting points that differ in pace and coverage. Each can be reshaped around your dates and interests.

Sample itinerary. These are sample itineraries, designed as relaxed tour options. For a customised, detailed and personalised itinerary built around your dates, interests and pace, please contact us. Plan your journey or call +91 97755 97771.

3 Nights / 4 Days

Kathmandu Cultural Escape: 3 Nights / 4 Days

A compact introduction to the Kathmandu Valley, covering Patan, the old royal square, major stupas and medieval Bhaktapur.

Duration
3 Nights / 4 Days
Route
Kathmandu > Patan > Bhaktapur > Kathmandu
Suits
First-time visitors, couples and short-break travellers who enjoy history and local culture.
Stay style
Heritage-style boutique hotels in or near the old city, or a quiet guesthouse-style property close to the main sights.
View day-by-day itinerary
Day 1Arrive in Kathmandu

Arrive at Kathmandu airport and transfer to your hotel. After time to settle in, an optional late-afternoon visit to Patan Durbar Square introduces the valley's Newar architecture and craft traditions.

Day 2Kathmandu Durbar Square and Swayambhunath

Explore the old royal square and nearby temples with a guide in the morning. After lunch, visit Swayambhunath, the hilltop stupa with views over the valley, and allow free time in the evening.

Day 3Bhaktapur, Pashupatinath and Boudhanath

Spend the morning in Bhaktapur, around 13 km east of the city, which has a quieter medieval feel. Return in the afternoon to see the Pashupatinath complex from the river bank, followed by Boudhanath at dusk, when pilgrims circle the stupa.

Day 4Departure

Enjoy a relaxed morning or optional last-minute shopping before your transfer to the airport for onward travel.

5 Nights / 6 Days

Nepal: Culture and Himalayan Landscapes: 5 Nights / 6 Days

Two nights of heritage in Kathmandu, followed by three nights beside Pokhara's lake, with sunrise views over the Annapurna range if the weather allows.

Duration
5 Nights / 6 Days
Route
Kathmandu > Pokhara > Kathmandu
Suits
Couples, families with older children and travellers who want a mix of culture, scenery and easy leisure.
Stay style
A heritage or boutique hotel in Kathmandu, then a lakeside or hillside retreat in Pokhara, chosen for quiet surroundings and views.
View day-by-day itinerary
Day 1Arrive in Kathmandu

Arrive at Kathmandu airport and transfer to your hotel. Rest, or take a gentle walk to a nearby neighbourhood or a local cafe.

Day 2Heritage in the Kathmandu Valley

With a guide, see Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath and Boudhanath. Pashupatinath can be viewed from the river bank, subject to access rules.

Day 3Fly or drive to Pokhara

Travel to Pokhara by morning flight (subject to weather and schedules) or by road, allowing most of the day. Take an easy lakeside walk or boat ride in the late afternoon.

Day 4Sarangkot sunrise and the lake

Start early for sunrise at Sarangkot, weather permitting, with views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre peaks. After breakfast, visit the World Peace Pagoda and take a slow boat on Phewa Lake.

Day 5Pokhara at leisure

Explore the old bazaar, Davi's Fall and the International Mountain Museum, or simply rest. An optional short village walk or a visit to Gupteshwor Cave can be added.

Day 6Return to Kathmandu and depart

Return to Kathmandu by air or road for onward travel, allowing generous time before international departures if you are travelling by road.

7 Nights / 8 Days

Nepal Beyond Kathmandu: 7 Nights / 8 Days

A wider loop through the Kathmandu Valley, the hill town of Bandipur, Pokhara and Chitwan's lowland forests.

Duration
7 Nights / 8 Days
Route
Kathmandu > Bandipur > Pokhara > Chitwan > Kathmandu
Suits
Travellers with time to spare who enjoy variety, including nature lovers and families with older children.
Stay style
Heritage hotel in Kathmandu, a characterful hill-town stay in Bandipur, a lakeside retreat in Pokhara and an eco-style lodge near Chitwan.
View day-by-day itinerary
Day 1Arrive in Kathmandu

Arrive at Kathmandu airport and transfer to your hotel for a restful first evening.

Day 2Kathmandu Valley highlights

Visit Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, Boudhanath and, time permitting, Patan or Bhaktapur, with a local guide and breaks between sites.

Day 3Drive to Bandipur

Head west along the Prithvi Highway to Bandipur, a journey of around five to six hours with stops. Walk through the car-free bazaar and watch the light change over the valley from a ridge viewpoint.

Day 4Bandipur to Pokhara

Take a slow morning walk through Bandipur's lanes, then continue to Pokhara, around three to four hours. Spend the evening beside Phewa Lake.

Day 5Pokhara at leisure

Rise early for sunrise at Sarangkot, weather permitting, and spend the rest of the day on a lake boat ride, the World Peace Pagoda and the old bazaar.

Day 6Drive to Chitwan

Travel to the Chitwan region, usually five to six hours with stops. Settle into a nature-focused lodge and join an optional evening walk or cultural performance.

Day 7Wildlife and Tharu culture

Spend the day on a jeep safari and, if conditions allow, a canoe ride, led by naturalists. Visit a local Tharu village for a glimpse of the community's culture. We recommend observing animals only in their natural settings.

Day 8Return to Kathmandu and depart

Drive back to Kathmandu, around five to six hours, or fly from nearby Bharatpur if schedules suit. Allow generous time before international departures.

4 Nights / 5 Days

Kathmandu and Pokhara: 4 Nights / 5 Days

Kathmandu's heritage squares and Boudhanath, then Pokhara's lakeside calm and Himalayan views, in a pace that suits a long weekend plus.

Duration
4 Nights / 5 Days
Route
Kathmandu > Pokhara > Kathmandu
Suits
First-time visitors, couples and families wanting culture and calm scenery.
Stay style
A heritage-style or boutique hotel in Kathmandu and a quiet lakeside stay in Pokhara.
View day-by-day itinerary
Day 1Arrive in Kathmandu

Arrive at Kathmandu (KTM) or by road from Kakarbhitta. Transfer to your stay and visit Boudhanath stupa in the late afternoon.

Day 2Kathmandu heritage day

Swayambhunath in the morning, then Kathmandu Durbar Square (check access and any entry rules) and the old lanes of Thamel in the afternoon.

Day 3Travel to Pokhara

Fly (about 25 to 30 minutes) or drive (roughly 6 to 8 hours) to Pokhara, as you prefer. Evening by Phewa Lake.

Day 4Sunrise and the lake

Early drive to a viewpoint such as Sarangkot for sunrise, weather permitting. Later, a boat across Phewa Lake to the temple island and a lakeside walk.

Day 5Return and depart

Return to Kathmandu by flight or road for your onward journey. By road, allow a full day.

6 Nights / 7 Days

Nepal Heritage, Lake and Jungle: 6 Nights / 7 Days

Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan National Park: temples and old squares, a lakeside stay and a gentle wildlife stay in the Terai.

Duration
6 Nights / 7 Days
Route
Kathmandu > Pokhara > Chitwan > Kathmandu
Suits
Families and travellers who like variety: culture, lakes and wildlife.
Stay style
A boutique hotel in Kathmandu, a lakeside stay in Pokhara and a quiet eco-style lodge near Chitwan National Park.
View day-by-day itinerary
Day 1Arrive in Kathmandu

Arrive at Kathmandu (KTM) or by road. Rest, then a late-afternoon visit to Boudhanath.

Day 2Kathmandu and Patan

Swayambhunath, then Patan's Durbar Square and its craft lanes, with a slower afternoon.

Day 3Kathmandu to Pokhara

Fly (about 30 minutes) or drive (6 to 8 hours) to Pokhara. Walk beside Phewa Lake at dusk.

Day 4Pokhara at leisure

Sunrise from Sarangkot where weather permits, a boat on Phewa Lake and a visit to the International Mountain Museum or Devi's Fall.

Day 5Pokhara to Chitwan

Drive about 4 to 5 hours to the Chitwan area. Afternoon walk or village visit with a local naturalist guide.

Day 6Chitwan wildlife day

Guided activities such as a jeep safari or a canoe ride on the river, subject to park rules. Sightings vary and are not guaranteed.

Day 7Return to Kathmandu and depart

Drive back to Kathmandu (around 5 to 6 hours) or fly from Bharatpur, depending on schedules, then onward travel.

8 Nights / 9 Days

Nepal Slow Valleys: 8 Nights / 9 Days

A slower Nepal with hill-village stays: Kathmandu, Nagarkot or Bandipur, Pokhara and Chitwan, with gentle walks and few rushed transfers.

Duration
8 Nights / 9 Days
Route
Kathmandu > Bandipur > Pokhara > Chitwan > Kathmandu
Suits
Travellers who enjoy slow travel, small towns, photography and cultural walks.
Stay style
Heritage-style stays in towns, a lakeside stay in Pokhara and a simple eco-lodge near Chitwan.
View day-by-day itinerary
Day 1Arrive in Kathmandu

Arrive at Kathmandu (KTM) and settle in. A short evening walk near your stay.

Day 2Kathmandu Valley sights

Swayambhunath and the old squares of Kathmandu, with time for a craft or tea stop.

Day 3Patan and Bhaktapur

Visit Patan's Durbar Square and then medieval Bhaktapur, known for its brick lanes and pottery square (check entry rules).

Day 4Kathmandu to Bandipur

Drive about 4 to 5 hours to Bandipur. Evening walk along the car-free main street.

Day 5Bandipur to Pokhara

Morning walk to a viewpoint or a nearby cave, then drive about 3 hours to Pokhara.

Day 6Pokhara at leisure

Sunrise at Sarangkot where the weather allows, a lake boat and a gentle lakeside afternoon.

Day 7Pokhara to Chitwan

Drive about 4 to 5 hours to Chitwan. An easy walk at the park edge in the late afternoon.

Day 8Chitwan activities

Guided jeep safari, canoe ride or bird-watching walk, subject to park rules. Sightings are not guaranteed.

Day 9Return and depart

Drive back towards Kathmandu or fly from Bharatpur, then onward travel.

6 Nights / 7 Days

Poon Hill Short Trek from Pokhara: 6 Nights / 7 Days

A gentle teahouse trek to Poon Hill with Annapurna and Dhaulagiri sunrise views, framed by a day in Pokhara at each end.

Duration
6 Nights / 7 Days
Route
Pokhara > Ghorepani > Poon Hill > Pokhara
Suits
Active travellers who enjoy walking and are comfortable with simple teahouses.
Stay style
Simple teahouse lodges on the trail, and a comfortable lakeside hotel in Pokhara before and after.
View day-by-day itinerary
Day 1Arrive in Pokhara

Arrive in Pokhara by flight or road. Gentle lakeside walk and a briefing about the trek and kit.

Day 2Drive and walk to Tikhedhunga

Short drive to the trailhead and a first walk through terraced fields and villages, with a first night in a teahouse.

Day 3Ulleri steps to Ghorepani

A long, steady climb on stone steps through rhododendron forest to Ghorepani (about 2,800 m). Take it slowly.

Day 4Poon Hill sunrise and Tadapani

Pre-dawn climb to Poon Hill (about 3,200 m) for sunrise over Dhaulagiri and Annapurna, weather permitting, then continue to Tadapani.

Day 5Tadapani to Ghandruk

A descent through forest to the Gurung village of Ghandruk, with views and a village walk in the afternoon.

Day 6Ghandruk to Pokhara

Walk down to the road and drive back to Pokhara, with a hot meal and rest.

Day 7Departure or spare day

A spare day for weather delays, or transfer onward from Pokhara by flight or road.

3 Nights / 4 Days

Kathmandu Valley for Families: 3 Nights / 4 Days

A gentle introduction to Nepal for families: temples, old squares, a short hill drive and hands-on craft visits at a child-friendly pace.

Duration
3 Nights / 4 Days
Route
Kathmandu > Bhaktapur > Nagarkot > Kathmandu
Suits
Families with children and grandparents who want an easy first visit.
Stay style
A family-friendly hotel with space and a garden in Kathmandu and a simple hilltop stay in Nagarkot.
View day-by-day itinerary
Day 1Arrive in Kathmandu

Arrive at Kathmandu (KTM) or by road. Rest, then a short walk to the Boudhanath stupa in the evening.

Day 2Temples and old squares

Swayambhunath in the morning, followed by Kathmandu Durbar Square and a lunch break. Return for a rest in the afternoon.

Day 3Bhaktapur and Nagarkot

Visit Bhaktapur's pottery square and old lanes (check entry rules), then drive up to Nagarkot for the sunset or sunrise views, weather permitting.

Day 4Departure

A slow morning, then transfer to the airport or onward by road.

7 Nights / 8 Days

Nepal Family Triangle: 7 Nights / 8 Days

Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan for families: culture, a lake and a gentle wildlife stay, with flights or drives chosen to suit young children.

Duration
7 Nights / 8 Days
Route
Kathmandu > Pokhara > Chitwan > Kathmandu
Suits
Families with children aged around six and above, and multi-generational groups.
Stay style
Family-friendly hotels with pools or gardens, and a simple eco-lodge near the park.
View day-by-day itinerary
Day 1Arrive in Kathmandu

Arrive at Kathmandu (KTM) and rest. A short evening walk to Boudhanath.

Day 2Kathmandu heritage

Swayambhunath, Kathmandu Durbar Square and a craft stop, with a long lunch break.

Day 3Bhaktapur or Patan

A morning in Bhaktapur or Patan, with a pottery or woodcarving demonstration. Afternoon at leisure.

Day 4Fly to Pokhara

A short flight (about 25 to 30 minutes), subject to weather, or a long drive. Boat ride on Phewa Lake in the afternoon.

Day 5Pokhara

Sunrise at Sarangkot if the weather permits, a visit to a museum or waterfall and a lakeside evening.

Day 6Drive to Chitwan

Drive around 4 to 5 hours to Chitwan. Short village walk in the late afternoon.

Day 7Chitwan wildlife

A guided jeep safari or canoe ride and a nature walk, subject to park rules. Sightings are not guaranteed. Cultural evening show if available.

Day 8Return to Kathmandu and depart

Drive back to Kathmandu (around 5 to 6 hours) or fly from Bharatpur, then onward travel.

9 Nights / 10 Days

Nepal Family with Lumbini: 9 Nights / 10 Days

Kathmandu, Chitwan, Lumbini and Pokhara in a relaxed ten days, adding the Buddha's birthplace to a family route.

Duration
9 Nights / 10 Days
Route
Kathmandu > Chitwan > Lumbini > Pokhara > Kathmandu
Suits
Families and groups who want a fuller, more varied trip and can manage long drives.
Stay style
Family-friendly hotels and a simple lodge near the park.
View day-by-day itinerary
Day 1Arrive in Kathmandu

Arrive at Kathmandu (KTM) and rest.

Day 2Kathmandu heritage

Swayambhunath, Boudhanath and Durbar Square at an easy pace.

Day 3Bhaktapur and Patan

Craft visits and old squares, with a long lunch.

Day 4Kathmandu to Chitwan

Drive around 5 to 6 hours, or fly to Bharatpur, subject to schedules. Village walk in the evening.

Day 5Chitwan wildlife

Guided jeep safari or canoe ride, subject to park rules. Sightings are not guaranteed.

Day 6Chitwan to Lumbini

Drive around 4 to 5 hours. Evening walk near the monastic zone.

Day 7Lumbini

Visit the sacred garden and monasteries by bicycle or rickshaw, with a rest in the afternoon.

Day 8Lumbini to Pokhara

A long drive of around 6 to 7 hours, or a flight route via Bhairahawa if schedules allow. Evening at the lake.

Day 9Pokhara

Sarangkot sunrise, weather permitting, then a boat on Phewa Lake.

Day 10Return and depart

Fly or drive to Kathmandu and onward.

Best time to visit

Seasons in Nepal

Oct-Nov (autumn)

Generally clear skies and good mountain views after the monsoon, and the busiest season. Book hotels and domestic flights early.

Dec-Feb (winter)

Cool to cold in Kathmandu and Pokhara, with crisp, often clear days. Mornings and evenings are chilly, and low-lying areas can have fog.

Mar-May (spring)

Warming temperatures and rhododendron blooms in the hills. Haze can soften distant views, and Chitwan becomes hot by April.

Jun-Sep (monsoon)

Lush green hills but frequent rain, cloud and occasional landslides on roads. Cultural sightseeing is possible, but mountain views are less reliable.

How many days?

Recommended duration

For a first visit focused on the Kathmandu Valley, three nights is a workable minimum, giving two full days for the main heritage sites. Add two or three nights for Pokhara, or one or two for Nagarkot or Bandipur, if you want scenery and a slower pace.

A wildlife stay at Chitwan needs at least two nights to make the journey worthwhile. Overland transfers between cities can take most of a day, so a week to ten days is more comfortable for a route covering Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan.

Travel tips

Practical guidance

Reviewed 23 October 2026. Rules, permits and road conditions change; we confirm current requirements when planning your trip.

Transport and accessibility

Domestic flights between Kathmandu and Pokhara take roughly half an hour but depend on weather and schedules. The road is scenic yet slow, often six to eight hours; we plan either with buffer time.

Weather and clothing

Light layers suit most of the year, with warm clothing for winter evenings and Nagarkot. Carry rain protection in the monsoon.

Permits and entry

Indian citizens do not need a visa. Other nationalities need a visa, which can usually be obtained on arrival or in advance. See our documentation guide and check official sources before you travel.

Altitude and acclimatisation

Kathmandu is around 1,400 m and Pokhara around 800 m, so altitude is not a concern for standard itineraries. Nagarkot sits higher, at roughly 2,000 m.

Road conditions

Highways can be congested and affected by roadworks or landslides in the monsoon. Allow extra time and avoid tight same-day connections.

Family travel

Nepal suits families well, particularly itineraries that mix a short culture stay with lake or wildlife time. See Nepal family holidays.

Local customs

Remove shoes before entering temples and some homes, walk clockwise around stupas, and ask before photographing people or religious ceremonies.

Responsible travel

Choose wildlife experiences that observe animals in their natural setting and avoid riding or performing animals. Carry a refillable bottle and respect temple and park rules.

Questions

Frequently asked questions

How many days do I need for Nepal?

Three nights is enough for the Kathmandu Valley highlights. Five to eight nights let you add Pokhara and, if you wish, Chitwan or a hill town without rushing.

Do Indian citizens need a visa for Nepal?

No. Indian citizens can enter without a visa but must carry an accepted photo identity, such as a valid passport or voter ID card. Confirm the current rules before travel.

Can I combine Nepal with Darjeeling or Sikkim?

Yes. Many guests travel between Siliguri and Nepal by road or flight. The routing depends on your dates and preferences; see our guide to combining Nepal with Darjeeling or Sikkim.

Is Nepal suitable for children and older travellers?

Generally yes, with sensible planning. Kathmandu sightseeing involves a lot of walking and uneven steps, so we adjust pace and use private transport.

When can I expect clear mountain views?

Clear views are most likely in the cooler, drier months from October to early spring, and mornings are usually clearer than afternoons. No season guarantees visibility.

Is Pashupatinath open to all visitors?

The main temple is for Hindus only. Other visitors can see the wider complex and the river ghats from the opposite bank.

Should I fly or drive between Kathmandu and Pokhara?

Flying saves time but depends on weather. Driving is slow but allows scenic stops. We usually propose one and keep the other as a backup.

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