Nepal Highlights Tour: Kathmandu, Chitwan, Lumbini and Pokhara
- 10 days
- moderate
- Up to 12
- All Round Year
We guide you across Nepal's cultural heartlands, Terai wildlife reserves, Buddhist pilgrimage sites, and lakeside towns on a 10-day journey.
At a glance
Trip overview
We have designed the Kathmandu Chitwan Lumbini via Pokhara Tour to provide a comprehensive overview of Nepal beyond its high-altitude trekking routes. This 10-day itinerary bridges the ancient architectural plazas of the Kathmandu Valley with the subtropical jungles of Chitwan National Park, the sacred pilgrimage gardens of Lumbini, and the scenic lakeside setting of Pokhara. We organize this journey for travelers who want to absorb the cultural, historical, and ecological diversity of the country at a comfortable, accessible pace.
Our route begins in the Kathmandu Valley, an open museum of Newari architecture, sacred shrines, and bustling market alleys. From there, we descend into the flatland Terai belt to explore Chitwan, where we track wildlife in a subtropical forest reserve established in 1973. We then continue westward to Lumbini, the historical birthplace of Lord Buddha, before winding our way north to Pokhara beneath the Annapurna range. Throughout the tour, our private vehicles and experienced local guides ensure a seamless transition between these distinct geographic and cultural zones.
This tour suits families, cultural enthusiasts, and travelers seeking a diverse holiday without the strenuous physical demands of high-altitude mountaineering. The maximum elevation on this itinerary is 1400 m in Kathmandu, making it accessible to participants of varying fitness levels. By combining urban heritage walks, jungle safaris, spiritual site visits, and leisurely lake excursions, we offer a balanced exploration of Nepal's most significant destinations.
Why this trek
Trip highlights
Kathmandu Durbar Squares
We explore ancient royal courtyards and active temple sites in the Kathmandu Valley, inhabited by the indigenous Newar community.
Chitwan Jungle Safari
We venture into the subtropical forests of Chitwan National Park to observe endangered wildlife and local Tharu traditions.
Birthplace of Lord Buddha
We visit the sacred Maya Devi Temple and historical pillars erected by Emperor Ashoka in Lumbini.
Sarangkot Sunrise Views
We drive up to Sarangkot to watch the early morning light illuminate the Annapurna Himalayan range above Pokhara.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu
Meals: B
Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu
Meals: B
We meet you upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu. In the evening, we host a welcome dinner and provide a briefing regarding the upcoming tour schedule.
Day 2
Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing
Meals: B / L / D
Day 2
Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing
Meals: B / L / D
Today we conduct a comprehensive sightseeing tour around the Kathmandu Valley, visiting historical durbar squares, ancient stupas, and sacred Hindu and Buddhist temples with our guide.
Day 3
Kathmandu to Chitwan
Meals: B / L / D
Day 3
Kathmandu to Chitwan
Meals: B / L / D
We take a morning tourist bus drive from Kathmandu toward the flatland Terai belt, taking 4 to 5 hours to reach Chitwan. Upon arrival, we check into our lodge and prepare for the jungle activities ahead.
Day 4
Chitwan National Park Activities
Meals: B / L / D
Day 4
Chitwan National Park Activities
Meals: B / L / D
Today we spend 4 to 5 hours exploring Chitwan National Park through jeep safaris, canoe rides to spot gharial crocodiles, and cultural interactions with the local Tharu community.
Day 5
Chitwan to Lumbini
Meals: B / L / D
Day 5
Chitwan to Lumbini
Meals: B / L / D
After breakfast, we board our transport for a 4-hour drive westward from Chitwan to Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. We settle into our hotel upon arrival.
Day 6
Lumbini Heritage Tour
Meals: B / L / D
Day 6
Lumbini Heritage Tour
Meals: B / L / D
Today we tour the sacred garden of Lumbini, visiting the Maya Devi Temple, the Ashokan pillar, and various international monasteries built by Buddhist communities from around the world.
Day 7
Palpa to Pokhara
Meals: B / L / D
Day 7
Palpa to Pokhara
Meals: B / L / D
We travel from Palpa toward Pokhara on a scenic 3-hour road journey. We arrive by afternoon and spend time walking along the vibrant Lakeside areas.
Day 8
Pokhara Valley Excursion
Meals: B / L / D
Day 8
Pokhara Valley Excursion
Meals: B / L / D
Today we explore the natural and cultural highlights of Pokhara, including boating on Phewa Lake, visiting cave systems, and touring local lakeside temples.
Day 9
Sarangkot Sunrise and Return to Kathmandu
Meals: B / L / D
Day 9
Sarangkot Sunrise and Return to Kathmandu
Meals: B / L / D
We drive early in the morning to Sarangkot for sunrise views over the Annapurna range before beginning our return journey by tourist bus back to Kathmandu.
Day 10
Final Departure
Meals: B
Day 10
Final Departure
Meals: B
We provide a private transfer from your hotel to Tribhuvan International Airport in time for your international flight home.
Inclusions
What’s included
Included
- Airport pick up and drop off by private vehicle
- 3 nights hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast
- 2 nights 3 days full program in Chitwan with meals and activities
- 2 nights 3 days full program in Lumbini with hotel and activities
- 2 nights hotel in Pokhara with breakfast and activities
- All ground transportation by tourist bus and private car
- Full sightseeing tour around Kathmandu valley with guide
Not included
- Nepal visa fees
- Travel insurance covering medical and personal contingencies
- Meals and drinks in cities except breakfast
- Monument entrance fees
- Personal expenses such as bar bills, beverages, and snacks
- Tips for guide and driver
Before you go
Good to know
Altitude considerations
The maximum elevation on this tour is 1400 m in Kathmandu. Because we remain at low to moderate elevations throughout the trip, altitude sickness is not a risk.
Physical fitness requirements
This tour is graded as easy and does not require strenuous multi-day hiking. Participants should be comfortable with standard walking tours in city centers and heritage sites.
Transportation details
We arrange private vehicles for airport transfers and Kathmandu sightseeing, and comfortable tourist buses for inter-city travel between Kathmandu, Chitwan, Lumbini, and Pokhara.
Cultural etiquette
When visiting temples, monasteries, and heritage sites, we advise dressing modestly and removing footwear where required. Our guides will brief you on local customs in each region.
Route
Route overview
Altitude
Altitude profile
Pack list
What to pack
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Footwear
Suitable for city walking and heritage site tours.
Light casual clothingEssential
Clothing
Breathable fabrics suitable for warmer Terai climates.
Sun hat and sunglassesEssential
Clothing
Protection against strong sunlight in Chitwan and Lumbini.
Sunscreen and insect repellentEssential
Safety
Recommended for jungle activities in Chitwan.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Safety
To stay hydrated during travel days.
Valid passport and visa documentsEssential
Documents
Required for hotel check-ins and travel administration.
Travel insurance policyEssential
Documents
Recommended to cover unforeseen medical needs.
Light fleece or jacket
Clothing
Useful for cooler evenings in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum altitude reached on this tour?
The maximum altitude is 1400 m in Kathmandu, ensuring a comfortable travel experience without altitude risks.
Are meals included during the tour?
Breakfast is included in Kathmandu and Pokhara, while full board meals are provided during your stay in Chitwan and Lumbini.
What type of transportation is used?
We use private vehicles for airport transfers and Kathmandu sightseeing, and standard tourist buses for inter-city journeys between Kathmandu, Chitwan, Lumbini, and Pokhara.
Is this tour suitable for families and children?
Yes, the easy grading and low elevation make this itinerary ideal for families, couples, and travelers of all age groups.
Can the itinerary be customized?
We can tailor the itinerary, duration, and activities to suit your personal preferences upon request.
What wildlife can we see in Chitwan?
In Chitwan National Park, you have the opportunity to spot endangered species including rhinoceros, gharial crocodiles, deer, and various birdlife.
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 10 days and confirm the plan with you before payment.
Start dateTrip runs
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