Comprehensive Cultural and Wildlife Journey Across Nepal
- 8 days
- moderate
- Up to 12
- Spring (Mar–May) & Autumn (Sep–Dec)
We explore Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan over eight days, combining sacred heritage sites, hill station vistas, and lowland safaris.
At a glance
Trip overview
Our eight-day tour across Nepal brings together the cultural heart of the Kathmandu Valley, the lakeside setting of Pokhara, and the subtropical lowlands of Chitwan National Park. Designed for travelers who want a diverse view of the country without undertaking high-altitude trekking, this itinerary moves from ancient city squares to hill stations and forested river valleys.
We begin in the capital, visiting significant Hindu and Buddhist shrines before traveling to Nagarkot for panoramic mountain perspectives. Descending toward the western lake city, we stop at the ridge-top Manakamana Temple before spending days exploring the lakes and caves of Pokhara, framed by the Annapurna range and Machhapuchhre.
The final leg of our journey takes us south to Chitwan for guided jungle safaris, canoe trips on the Rapti River, and cultural performances by the Tharu community. Ground transport is managed by private vehicle throughout, and we stay in comfortable three-star accommodations accompanied by our experienced local guides.
Why this trek
Trip highlights
UNESCO Heritage Sites
We explore Kathmandu Valley's historic Durbar Squares, Pashupatinath, and Bouddhanath with our cultural guide.
Nagarkot Sunrise
We watch the morning light illuminate the central Himalayan range from the hillside station of Nagarkot.
Pokhara Lake District
We take in views of Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna massif from Sarangkot and the shores of Phewa Lake.
Chitwan Wildlife Safari
We search for one-horned rhinos, deer, and birdlife during a traditional river canoe ride and jungle jeep safari.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu
Meals: B
Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu
Meals: B
Our representative meets our team at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfers us to our hotel in Kathmandu. After check-in and some rest, we gather for a pre-trip briefing regarding our upcoming schedule.
Day 2
Kathmandu Valley Tour to Nagarkot
Meals: B / L / D
Day 2
Kathmandu Valley Tour to Nagarkot
Meals: B / L / D
After breakfast, our guided sightseeing begins at Pashupatinath Temple on the Bagmati River, followed by Bouddhanath Stupa and Swayambhunath. We then drive to Bhaktapur Durbar Square to view its traditional Newari architecture before continuing up to the ridge of Nagarkot for the evening.
Day 3
Nagarkot to Pokhara via Kurintar
Meals: B / L / D
Day 3
Nagarkot to Pokhara via Kurintar
Meals: B / L / D
We rise early to observe the sunrise over the mountains from Nagarkot before driving west toward Pokhara. En route, we stop at Kurintar to ride the cable car across the Trishuli River for a visit to the Manakamana Temple, then resume our road journey to Pokhara.
Day 4
Pokhara Valley Sightseeing
Meals: B / L / D
Day 4
Pokhara Valley Sightseeing
Meals: B / L / D
An early morning drive brings us to Sarangkot for panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Machhapuchhre at sunrise. Later in the day, we visit Bindebasini Temple, Devi’s Falls, and the deep limestone passage of Gupteshwor Cave.
Day 5
Pokhara to Chitwan National Park
Meals: B / L / D
Day 5
Pokhara to Chitwan National Park
Meals: B / L / D
We leave the hill country behind and descend along winding highways toward the subtropical plains of Chitwan. Upon arrival at our lodge, we settle in and prepare for the evening jungle briefing and cultural program.
Day 6
Chitwan Jungle Activities
Meals: B / L / D
Day 6
Chitwan Jungle Activities
Meals: B / L / D
Our day starts with a quiet wooden canoe ride down the Rapti River to observe aquatic birds and gharial crocodiles along the banks. Later, our naturalist guides lead us on a jeep safari through the dense forest sectors of Chitwan National Park.
Day 7
Chitwan to Kathmandu
Meals: B / L / D
Day 7
Chitwan to Kathmandu
Meals: B / L / D
We depart the Terai lowlands and follow the Trishuli River valley back north toward Kathmandu. Passing terraced hillsides and roadside settlements, we reach the capital by afternoon for a final evening.
Day 8
Departure from Kathmandu
Meals: B
Day 8
Departure from Kathmandu
Meals: B
Our team provides a private transfer from the hotel to Tribhuvan International Airport approximately three hours before our scheduled international flight home.
Inclusions
What’s included
Included
- Airport pickup and drop-off by private vehicle
- All ground transfers as per itinerary
- 3-star hotel accommodation with breakfast in Kathmandu, Nagarkot, and Pokhara
- Full-board meals and jungle activities in Chitwan
- English-speaking tour guide for the duration
- All applicable government taxes and monument entry fees
Not included
- International airfare and Nepal entry visa
- Travel insurance covering medical evacuation
- Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu, Nagarkot, and Pokhara
- Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, and bottled beverages
- Tips for our guides and drivers
Before you go
Good to know
Physical Fitness
This tour involves minimal strenuous walking and is classified as easy. Travelers should be comfortable with brief walking tours over uneven stone paving in heritage sites and occasional long stretches in our private vehicle.
Accommodation & Meals
We provide three-star hotel accommodations in Kathmandu, Nagarkot, and Pokhara with daily breakfasts included. While on safari in Chitwan, full-board meals are provided directly by our lodge.
Transport Logistics
All land transfers between cities and sightseeing locations are managed in private reserved vehicles driven by experienced local drivers. Cable car tickets for Manakamana and all park entry fees are coordinated by our staff.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to December) offer the most stable weather conditions, clear morning mountain visibility, and pleasant temperatures across the lowlands and hills.
Route
Route overview
Altitude
Altitude profile
Pack list
What to pack
Walking shoes or sneakersEssential
Footwear
Suitable for city walking and light nature paths.
Sun hat and sunglassesEssential
Clothing
Important for sunny days in Kathmandu and Chitwan.
Light jacket or fleeceEssential
Clothing
Useful for cooler mornings and evenings in Nagarkot.
Insect repellentEssential
Safety
Recommended during activities in Chitwan National Park.
Passport and visa documentsEssential
Documents
Required for hotel check-ins and park entries.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Camping
For staying hydrated during daily tours.
DaypackEssential
Clothing
For carrying personal items during daily excursions.
Personal medicationsEssential
Safety
Bring any necessary prescription drugs.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
What kind of vehicle is used for transfers?
We provide comfortable, air-conditioned private cars, vans, or microbuses depending on the size of our group.
Are park permits included for Chitwan?
Yes, all necessary national park entry permits and conservation fees for Chitwan and our heritage site visits are included.
Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
Yes, the moderate pace and absence of high-altitude exertion make this itinerary suitable for travelers of various age groups.
What should we pack for the jungle safari?
We recommend light cotton clothing, neutral colors for the jungle, a sun hat, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes.
Can we customize the itinerary?
Yes, our team can adjust day lengths, add extra nights in Pokhara, or include additional destinations upon request.
How do we meet our guide on arrival?
Our airport representative holds a placard with our company name and your name outside the arrival terminal doors at Kathmandu airport.
Still have a question? Message us and our trip planner will reply within a working day.
Book your trip
Pick any start date on the calendar. We block the trip out over 8 days and confirm the plan with you before payment.
Start dateTrip runs
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