Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan tour-8Days

Quick Overview
Duration8 Days
Trip GradeEasy
CountryNepal
Group Size2-20
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
ActivitiesTour
Best TimeSpring and Autumn season

Our standard 7-day "Golden Triangle" trip is the best way to start your Nepali journey. This trip is perfectly timed to showcase the amazing variety of Nepal. It will take you from the old temples and busy markets of the city to the peaceful lakes and stunning Himalayan views of Pokhara and then to the wild, untamed jungles of Chitwan. In only one week, you may see the amazing mix of culture, landscape, and wildlife that makes Nepal a place you'll never forget.

Major highlight of the tour

  • Explore majestic UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu Valley: Swayambhunath Stupa (monkey temple), Kathmandu Darbar Square, Pashpathunath, and Boddhanath Stupa. 
  • Take a boat trip on Phewa Lake and see the Annapurna range in the water. 
  • Visit different caves and David Falls.
  • Chitwan Jungle Adventure: Take an exhilarating jeep safari through Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to see rhinos, deer, monkeys, and, if you're lucky, the rare Bengal tiger.
  • The Tharu cultural dance with a local cultural practice.
  • Unique Wildlife Encounters: Take a traditional canoe ride, go to an elephant breeding site, and see a cultural performance by the Tharu people.
  • Scenic Drives and Transfers: Tourist bus transfers are included; you may travel to sites comfortably and see how Nepal's landscapes change.
  • This journey is great for first-time travelers, families, and anybody who wants to see all of Nepal's culture, nature, and wildlife in one easy trip.

Overall Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan tour—8 days 

Take a memorable 8-day trip to Nepal's most famous places. This is a great way to get to know the country's amazing diversity. This well-planned "Golden Triangle" journey is for travelers who want to see the real Nepal, from its ancient spiritual center and stunning mountain views to its wild, untamed forests. In just over a week, you'll travel across a variety of landscapes, from busy cities to peaceful villages by the lake and lush subtropical plains. You'll get a full experience of the natural and cultural assets that make this Himalayan country so special.

The Kathmandu Valley is where your experience begins. Its religious sites are made of wood, stone, and spirituality intertwined into the Nepalese lifestyle. You will walk through the busy streets and see UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Kathmandu Durbar Square and old Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), the peaceful Boudhanath Stupa, and the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, feeling the spiritual energy that fills the air.  From there, a beautiful journey takes you to the beautiful city of Pokhara, which is next to a calm lake and surrounded by the stunning Annapurna mountain range. The pace slows down here, so you can enjoy the tranquil lakefront and the stunning Himalayan sunrises.

The trip takes a big swing as you go down from the Himalayan foothills to the subtropical forests of Chitwan. Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has many different plants and animals because of the change in the topography. Get ready for exciting animal experiences, such as vehicle safaris to find the rare one-horned rhinoceros and calm canoe rides down jungle rivers. Being a part of the local Tharu community adds to the experience. Their traditional dance and hospitality provide you with a fascinating look into a life closely tied to the jungle.

This trip is well designed to provide us with a full and gratifying experience without feeling rushed. It combines comfort and adventure in a way that works well. You can fully enjoy the beauty of Nepal now that all the logistics, lodgings, and skilled guides are taken care of. This all-in-one itinerary is the best choice for first-time travelers and anybody who wants to have a stress-free vacation that shows off the amazing cultural, natural, and untamed spirit of this amazing nation.

Reminder

For a smooth and stress-free start, we recommend arriving in Kathmandu by 4 PM the day before we leave. This gives you enough time for a final gear check, a trip briefing with your guide, and to ensure you have everything you need before heading out on the trek.

Online briefing

This is like our first coffee before the trip, but online! This online meeting is your opportunity to learn about everything that will happen on the trip. We'll talk about everything from what gear to bring to what each day on the route will be like and how it will feel, and we'll answer any questions you have. After you book, we'll send you an email with a couple of times when we can talk. We'll set up our pre-adventure meeting as soon as you submit the papers we need. Also, our tour itinerary does not include your hotel stay in Kathmandu. So, while in the online meeting, please let us know your preferences, budget, and standard of the hotel you would like to stay in Kathmandu. 

Short Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 02: sightseeing in Kathmandu
Day 03: Drive to Pokhara
Day 04: Sightseeing in Pokhara
Day 05: morning visit Sarankot and drive 159 km/miles for 5-6 hours to Chitwan, and evening  participate in the Tharu cultural dance
Day 06: Jungle safari and sunset view from canoeing in the Rapti River.
Day 07: Drive back to Kathmandu
Day 08: Final departure
Expand
Detailed Itinerary
Day 01:

Namaste and a happy welcome to Nepal! When you get to Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will welcome you with a beautiful Khada/lei made of marigolds. After that, a private, comfortable vehicle will take you to your lodging. Upon arrival at the hotel, you may rest and get used to the lively bustle of Kathmandu.

You may take your time settling in and getting a first look at the city's busy streets in the evening.The Thamel is famed for its colorful markets and pleasant cafes. You might want to check it out.

Meals: breakfast and dinnerAccommodation: hotel
Day 02:

We start our tour of Kathmandu's living legacy after a big breakfast. The first stop to the ancient Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), which is impressively placed on a hill that looks out over the valley. Legend has it that this holy place sprang out of nowhere when the Kathmandu Valley was still a lake. You may find one of Buddhism's oldest temples by climbing 365 stairs with joyful monkeys. At the shrine, Buddha's all-seeing eyes look compassionately across the valley.  You can feel the spiritual energy here, with prayer flags blowing in the breeze, devotees around the stupa, and the smell of incense in the air.

We keep going to the beautiful Kathmandu Durbar Square.This open-air museum shows off the amazing architecture of the Malla period, when beautifully carved temples and palaces told stories of ancient kings and queens.The golden-roofed Taleju Temple is amazing, and the stoic Hanuman statue defending the former royal palace is much more so.  You could even see the Living Goddess (Kumari) come out of her holy home. The area is full of life, from temple events to local market booths.It's a great way to get a taste of Nepal's diverse culture.

As the light of the afternoon fades, we move on to the Boudhanath Stupa, which is the spiritual center of Tibetan Buddhism. Join the never-ending line of pilgrims walking around the huge mandala and spinning prayer wheels while the Buddha watches over them. The air is filled with the sound of monks singing, prayer flags waving, and the calm beat of devotion.This creates a deep sense of tranquility that has lured spiritual seekers for ages.

As night falls, we complete our tour at the holy Pashupatinath Temple. See the deeply touching ceremonies along the Bagmati River, as traditional Hindu customs come to life among temple spires and sadhus meditating on the ghats. The twilight aarti ceremony fills the air with incense and chanting, making for a dramatic goodbye to Nepal's spiritual environment.This is a scene that will never change, where life, faith, and eternity all come together in the fading light.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Hotel
Day 03:

Get comfortable in our vehicle as we leave the busy streets of Kathmandu and go west into the peaceful beauty of Pokhara. The trip takes around 6 to 7 hours and looks like a moving postcard as it follows the twisting roads along the Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers. As you travel from the city to the countryside, you'll see traditional villages where people still live as they have for generations, farmers tending to emerald-green terraced fields, and snow-capped peaks in the distance that get closer and closer.

The air is considerably cleaner, and the mood gets more relaxed as we get closer to Pokhara. The first time you see Fewa Lake shining in the afternoon sun, with the beautiful Annapurna range standing watch in the backdrop, it will steal your breath away. This evening, get settled into your lakefront room and maybe take a slow walk down the coast as the sun sets behind the mountains. This will set the mood for the natural beauties that you will explore tomorrow.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Hotel
Day 04:

Today is a great balance between the beauty of nature and the peace of the spirit. We start our trip with a peaceful boat ride over Phewa Lake, where the clear waters wonderfully reflect the beautiful Annapurna range. As the morning sun shines over Machhapuchhre's famous fishtail peak, you may glide by little islands and observe fishermen in traditional wooden boats.

We then look at some of nature's most interesting contrasts. For example, Davis Falls, where a whole river disappears into strange underground passages, and Gupteshwor Cave, a natural temple with stalactites and Hindu temples concealed under the ground. The day ends with a beautiful hike up to the World Peace Pagoda, which is white and beautiful and sits on top of a hill covered with trees. This holy site not only brings peace to the soul, but it also has one of the most beautiful views in the valley.

The entire Annapurna range can be seen over the horizon, while Pokhara sparkles next to the lake below. As the sun sets, take a stroll around the lively Lakeside neighborhood, where attractive cafés, artisan stores, and the soothing lapping of the lake waves make the perfect setting for thinking on the amazing things that happened today.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Hotel
Day 05:

We travel to Sarangkot, the best place to see the Pokhara Valley, before the sun comes up. The first golden rays of daylight will light up the snow-capped summits of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains while you sit in the calm, peaceful morning.

In the pure morning light, the famous fishtail peak of Machhapuchhre looks near enough to touch. This is a wonderfully magnificent way to say goodbye to the Himalayas that you will always remember. After taking in these beautiful sights and taking pictures that we'll never forget, we go back to the hotel for a big breakfast.

After breakfast, we start our beautiful descent from the mountains to the tropical plains. The 4–5 hour trip to Chitwan takes you through a wide range of landscapes, from rushing river gorges and terraced hillsides to the flat, lush plains of the Terai area. When you get to your rainforest resort, you'll be given a cool drink and told about the animal activities that are coming up.

The resort is located right on the edge of Chitwan National Park, which gives you an instant feel for the forest. Get ready for a fascinating cultural experience as the sun goes down: the Tharu ethnic dance performance. The Tharu people are the original people of this area.

Their colorful dances, set to traditional music with a beat, convey stories about their profound relationship to the jungle, their history, and their everyday life.This bright and dynamic show isn't only for fun; it's a glimpse into the heart of the Terai. It's also a great way to start your jungle trip before going to bed to the sounds of the wild.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: HotelDuration: 5-6 hour
Day 06:

The rainforest wakes up with a symphony of noises, and so starts your day full of adventure. We have breakfast early and then go on an amazing jungle safari deep into the heart of Chitwan National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you go through thick Sal woods and wide elephant pastures, your senses will be on high alert, whether you're in a 4x4 jeep or on the back of a friendly elephant. Keep an eye out for the park's famous animals, such as the stately one-horned rhinoceros, the spotted deer, the lazy monkeys, and, if you're really lucky, the endangered Bengal tiger.

A knowledgeable naturalist guide will be with you, telling you interesting things about the park's complicated ecosystem and helping you find hidden animals and diverse bird species. The afternoon is calmer and more introspective as we float onto the Rapti River for a traditional canoe trip. In a hand-carved wooden dugout canoe, you may drift calmly along the tranquil waterways while surrounded by the rich riverine forest.

This is a great place to see birds since you may regularly see kingfishers, egrets, and storks along the banks. As the sun goes down, the sky becomes orange and purple, which looks great on the water's surface. The calm setting, broken only by the sound of paddles dipping and distant jungle noises, makes for a really pleasant time, which is a nice change after the excitement of the morning.

When the sun goes down, we go back to the resort, where you may rest and talk about everything you saw that day. You may eat a tasty dinner and maybe even look at the stars under the clear night sky, relaxed to rest by the sounds of the jungle at night.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: HotelDuration: 5-6 hourDistance: 15 km / 9 mile
Day 07:

Enjoy one last peaceful morning in the wild of Chitwan. After breakfast, we start our trip back to the capital with a beautiful 5-6 hour drive to Kathmandu. The route goes up from the Terai's tropical plains via beautiful river valleys, traditional hillside communities, and terraced agriculture. The view changes again, slowly replacing the flat, green plains with the undulating hills that encircle the Kathmandu Valley.

The vibe changes from the peaceful tranquility of the jungle to the lively pulse of city life as you get closer to the busy metropolis.The trip gives you one last chance to think about all the amazing things you saw and did over the last week, from old temples and mountain views to jungle safaris and river sunsets. When you get to Kathmandu, you'll check into your hotel and have some time to rest and freshen up after the journey.

The night ends with a special goodbye supper in a traditional Nepali restaurant, where you may enjoy authentic Nepali food one more time.This is a great time to talk with your guide and other visitors about the best parts of your trip to Nepal's cultural and natural beauties and to celebrate the memories you've built before you leave tomorrow.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: HotelDuration: 5-6 hour
Day 08:

Today is the last day of your trip across Nepal's amazing landscapes and civilizations.Enjoy one last breakfast at your hotel as you reflect on all the amazing things you did this past week,from visiting the holy temples in Kathmandu to seeing the breathtaking Himalayan vistas in Pokhara to encountering exciting animals in Chitwan.Before the 3 hours of flight time, you will be taken to Tribhuvan International Airport for the return flight. Our professional will assist you until the last check-in, ensuring your departure goes smoothly.

Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: hotel
Couldn't find what you're after?Reach out to our travel experts.
Customize Trip
Essential Information

Customize your tour

The schedule above is simply a suggestion. You may change your vacation to include a jeep safari, an elephant safari, rafting, and a lot more. You may also reach us by phone, Viber, or WhatsApp at +977-9810351300 or by email at info@theeverestholiday.com.

Food

There are 3 meals a day included in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan. There are many food options, mostly local, Asian, and Western dishes. The meals will be healthy, flavorful, and clean.

Time to Visit 

The best time to go on an adventure safari in Chitwan National Park. The park is open all year round. The park is in a humid location that is affected by monsoons in the subtropics. Most people choose to go to Chitwan National Park between October and March. During the hot season, which lasts from late February to June, you are more likely to observe tigers and rhinos around water holes. But in the winter, the animals hide in the thick woodlands. The fog also makes it difficult to see.

Visa and passport

Everyone who isn't Indian needs a visa to get into Nepal. Most people from other countries can get an on-arrival visa, which is good news. You will need a passport-size photo, visa costs (USD 50 for a 30-day stay), and a passport that is valid for at least six months to get an on-arrival visa. Go to the immigration website, https://www.immigration.gov.np, to find out the most up-to-date visa rules. Please be aware that people from some countries cannot get an on-arrival visa. Citizens of SAARC and China can acquire free visas, although there are certain rules.

Changing Money

The official money of Nepal is the Nepali rupee (NPR). 1 USD is around 130 NPR. Banks and money exchanges will let you trade most foreign currencies. To avoid excessive bank costs and long processing times, we suggest using legal money exchanges to swap funds. You may also get Nepali Rupees at ATMs in and around Kathmandu. You can take out up to NRs 35,000 from an ATM for a charge of Rs 500. Please note that only INR notes of 100 and 2,000 are authorized in Nepal. Old, damaged, or faded foreign money will not be accepted by Nepali banks. So, be sure to bring fresh, clean bills. You will need to exchange your foreign money in Kathmandu because this service might not be available in other towns and cities. We think you will need between 20  to 25 US dollars a day to spend.

Security

The Everest Holiday promises that its clients will be safe, secure, and happy. Your safety is the most important thing to us. Our guides are experienced, have a license from the government, and have had a lot of training in first aid. We will go sightseeing together everyday, which will make it much safer.

Trip conclusion 

Farewell Dinner 

We will have a farewell meal for you in Kathmandu after the tour, remember. This is a great opportunity to share stories from your adventure and provide us with your feedback. We will also present you with a certificate of achievement to recognize your incredible accomplishment.

Departure 

To arrange your airport transfer, please let us know your hotel name, room number, and flight departure details. We will take you from your hotel to Tribhuvan International Airport so you may catch your trip home. We hope you had an amazing time and can't wait to see you back in Nepal for another tour.

Tipping culture 

Tipping is accepted in Nepali culture but is not mandatory.The amount should reflect the quality of service, the length, and the cost of the tour. This recommends giving tips to the crew collectively at the end of the tour.

FAQs

Q1. What is the best part of this 7-day trip? 
This is Nepal's "Golden Triangle" trip, which is meant to provide you with many different experiences in a short amount of time. Some of the best parts are:
Kathmandu: The capital valley has old temples, palaces, and a lively culture.
Pokhara: Beautiful vistas of the Annapurna range, quiet lakes, and a calm environment.
Chitwan: Go on a jungle safari in Chitwan National Park to view rhinos, elephants, crocodiles, and, if you're lucky, the Royal Bengal Tiger.

Q2. How fast is this 7-day tour?
The speed is quick. You will be going to three different areas that are far apart from each other (via plane or tourist bus). It's a full schedule that will let you see the finest of each place quickly. There is less "free time" than there would be on a separate excursion or stay.

Q3. Is this trip good for families with kids or older people?
Yes, but with thought. There is no hard hiking to do. But the quick pace, long bus rides, and chance of heat in Chitwan may be hard on people. For convenience and to save time, it's best to take domestic flights between cities (Kathmandu-Pokhara and Pokhara-Chitwan).

Q4. When is the ideal time to go on this tour?
The finest times of year are:

  • Autumn (October to November): The weather in Pokhara is perfect, with bright skies, nice temperatures, and great views of the mountains. This is the busiest time of year.
  • Spring (March to April): The weather is warm, and the rhododendrons blossom beautifully in the hills. The views are wonderful, but not necessarily as clear as they are in the fall.
  • Winter (December to February): The days are nice, but the mornings and nights in Kathmandu and Pokhara may be cold. The views of the mountains are still wonderful. During the day, Chitwan is really nice.
  • Monsoon (June to September): Not a good time. Heavy rain can make it hard to fly, drive, or see anything outside. You can't always see the mountains in Pokhara.

Q1. How will we get from one city to another? 
Most tour packages include a mix of 

  • By tourist bus: This is the most usual and cheapest way to go by road. Buses are pleasant and have air conditioning, although the trips are long (6–7 hours from Kathmandu to Pokhara).
  • By Domestic Flight: The best way to improve a 7-day tour. Flights between Kathmandu and Pokhara (25 minutes) and between Pokhara and Chitwan (or to and from Bharatpur) save a lot of time and give amazing views of the Himalayas.This costs more.

Q2. What kind of place to stay can we expect?
You will usually stay in hotels with three stars and share a room with another person. There are different places to stay in each city:

  • Kathmandu: City hotels, usually in the Thamel neighborhood, are easy to access for shopping and eating.
  • Pokhara: Hotels by the lake with great views and a calm atmosphere.
  • Chitwan: Jungle lodges or resorts, which are an experience in themselves, are generally on the edges of the national park.

Q3. What does a typical tour package include?
A normal all-inclusive plan usually includes:

  • All housing (7 nights).
  • All meals are included in the program, which usually includes breakfast in towns and full board in Chitwan.
  • All private car transportation for sightseeing and picking up and dropping off at the airport or bus station.
  • A certified, professional tour guide who speaks English.
  • All costs for getting into national parks and monuments.
  • In Chitwan, you may go on a jungle safari, ride in a jeep or a canoe, go on a nature walk, or see a traditional display.

Q4. What is usually NOT included?
Things that are usually not covered include:

  • Flights to other countries.
  • Fee for a Nepal visa.
  • Flights within the country (typically given as an extra).
  • Travel insurance.
  • In Kathmandu and Pokhara, lunch and supper are provided (just breakfast is normally included).
  • Personal costs include beverages, tips, washing, and so forth.

Q1. What should I bring on this trip?
You need to pack for three separate places:

  • Kathmandu: Casual clothes, comfy shoes for strolling, and a scarf or shawl to protect your shoulders in temples.
  • Pokhara: Wear clothes that are light and comfy. A light jacket for the nights. Shoes that are good for walking.
  • Chitwan: For the forest, wear light, breathable clothes in neutral colors like beige, green, and brown. A cap, shorts, a T-shirt, and heavy sunscreen. Don't wear bright colors when you're on safari.

Q2. Are there any specific shots I need?
There are no legal requirements for immunizations to enter; however, it is strongly advised that you get your normal vaccinations and consider getting shots for Hepatitis A,Typhoid, and Tetanus. A course of anti-malarial medication is generally recommended for Chitwan. Please talk to your doctor well before you leave. 

Q3. What about cash and visas?

  • Visa: Most people from other countries may get a visa when they arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Bring a photo the size of a passport and cash (USD is preferable) for the charge.
  • Money: The Nepalese Rupee (NPR) is the money used in Nepal. You can use credit cards at bigger hotels and restaurants, but you should always have enough cash on hand for small purchases, tips, and meals that aren't included in your package. There are many ATMs in Kathmandu and Pokhara.