Kathmandu and Pokhara Tour – 5 Days

Today is dedicated to exploring the historical and cultural landmarks of the Kathmandu Valley, which is home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Your tour begins with a visit to the sacred Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple. Perched atop a hill overlooking the city, this ancient Buddhist complex offers a panoramic view of Kathmandu and is adorned with a golden spire and the all-seeing eyes of Buddha. Next, you’ll visit Kathmandu Durbar Square, the former royal palace complex filled with intricately carved temples, the Kumari Ghar (home of the living goddess), and the Hanuman Dhoka Museum.

After lunch, you’ll head toward the Hindu temple complex of Pashupatinath, the most revered Shiva shrine in Nepal, located along the sacred Bagmati River. You may witness open-air cremation ceremonies and the daily rituals performed by saffron-clad sadhus. The day ends with a visit to Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest spherical stupas in the world, where spinning prayer wheels, monks chanting mantras, and the scent of incense create an incredibly peaceful ambiance. The spiritual energy in this area is palpable and offers a serene contrast to the bustling city streets. Return to your hotel in the evening for dinner and rest.

After breakfast, you’ll take a short but scenic 25-minute flight to Pokhara, Nepal’s adventure capital and a breathtakingly beautiful lakeside city. As you descend into the Pokhara Valley, the views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges from the window will leave you awe-struck. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel, situated near the serene Phewa Lake. After check-in, your exploration begins with a leisurely walk around the Lakeside area, a vibrant boulevard dotted with cafes, artisan shops, yoga centers, and restaurants with outdoor terraces.

Your Pokhara sightseeing will include visits to popular attractions such as the mystical Davis Falls, where water from Phewa Lake plunges underground, and the nearby Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, a hidden cavern housing a sacred Shiva lingam. You’ll also visit the International Mountain Museum, which offers insights into Nepal’s mountaineering history and the indigenous cultures of the Himalayas. In the evening, enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Phewa Lake with reflections of the Annapurna range mirrored on the water's surface. Don’t miss the sacred Barahi Temple located on an island in the middle of the lake. Dinner and overnight stay in Pokhara.

Begin your day early with an optional sunrise excursion to Sarangkot, a hilltop viewpoint just outside Pokhara that offers a breathtaking panorama of the Annapurna range, including Machapuchare (Fishtail Mountain), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. The golden morning light washing over the snow-capped peaks is a truly mesmerizing sight and one of the most memorable moments of your tour. After returning to your hotel for breakfast, you’ll have a few more hours to relax or shop for souvenirs along the Lakeside area before heading to the airport for your flight back to Kathmandu.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred back to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. You may want to revisit one of your favorite spots from earlier in the trip, do some last-minute shopping in Thamel, or simply unwind with a cup of Nepali tea at a rooftop café. If you wish, we can arrange a farewell dinner at a cultural restaurant with traditional live music and dance to celebrate the end of a wonderful journey. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Today marks the end of your incredible journey through the cultural heart of Nepal. After breakfast, depending on your flight schedule, you may have time to explore the local market or take a short walk around the neighborhood near your hotel to soak in the atmosphere one last time. Your guide will assist you with the final departure arrangements and ensure that you reach Tribhuvan International Airport in time for your onward flight.

As you leave Kathmandu, you carry with you the memories of snow-capped peaks, sacred temples, and the warm hospitality of the Nepalese people. Whether you’ve come for a short getaway or a spiritual retreat, this tour offers a beautiful introduction to the diverse cultural and natural landscapes of Nepal. We hope this journey has inspired you to return and explore even more of this remarkable Himalayan nation. Safe travels !