Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan Tour – 9 Days

Your first full day in Nepal begins with a hearty breakfast before setting out to explore Kathmandu’s iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites. First, visit the Swayambhunath Stupa, popularly known as the Monkey Temple, perched atop a hill overlooking the valley. As you climb the ancient stone steps, take in sweeping views of Kathmandu and the surrounding hills. The stupa itself, with its all-seeing eyes of the Buddha, is surrounded by fluttering prayer flags, spinning prayer wheels, and devout pilgrims performing rituals. Next, you’ll head to Kathmandu Durbar Square, once the royal palace complex of the Malla kings, now a historical marvel adorned with intricately carved wooden temples and courtyards.

In the afternoon, you'll visit the grand Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest spherical stupas in the world. This sacred site is a center of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal, and the air here is thick with the scent of incense and chants of monks. You'll witness devotees circumambulating the stupa, turning prayer wheels and lighting butter lamps. Finally, your guide will take you to Pashupatinath Temple, the most sacred Hindu temple in Nepal, located on the banks of the Bagmati River. Here, observe the solemn cremation ceremonies and take in the temple’s spiritual aura. After an enriching day, return to your hotel for a relaxed evening or explore Kathmandu’s vibrant nightlife.

After breakfast, you’ll head out to Bhaktapur, an ancient city located around 13 kilometers east of Kathmandu. Known as the “City of Devotees,” Bhaktapur boasts a perfectly preserved medieval layout with narrow alleys, carved wooden windows, and towering pagodas. Stroll through Bhaktapur Durbar Square, home to treasures like the 55-Window Palace, the Golden Gate, and the impressive Nyatapola Temple – the tallest pagoda in Nepal. Each brick and wood carving here tells a story of artistic brilliance and spiritual devotion. Don’t miss out on trying the local delicacy “Juju Dhau” – a creamy yogurt that’s a cultural icon.

In the afternoon, continue your cultural immersion with a visit to Patan, another ancient city rich in Newari architecture and artistic heritage. Known as the “City of Fine Arts,” Patan Durbar Square is a stunning ensemble of temples, palaces, and statues, all intricately designed. You’ll visit the Hiranya Varna Mahavihar (Golden Temple), Mahabouddha Temple, and the Patan Museum, which houses a magnificent collection of traditional sacred art. Patan also offers excellent opportunities to interact with artisans still practicing centuries-old metal and wood crafting techniques. Return to Kathmandu in the evening, full of inspiration from the day's artistic journey.

Today begins early with a scenic drive to Nagarkot, a hilltop village located about 32 kilometers from Kathmandu. Famous for its panoramic Himalayan views, Nagarkot offers a breathtaking sunrise that paints the snow-capped peaks in golden hues. On a clear day, you may catch sight of Mount Everest along with other peaks such as Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and Langtang Lirung. The drive winds through pine forests, terraced farms, and quaint hillside settlements. Once in Nagarkot, find a serene viewpoint and watch as the dawn breaks and the mountains emerge from the mist in a scene of quiet majesty.

After the sunrise, enjoy breakfast at a local resort or cafe with a view, followed by a short hike or nature walk in the surrounding area. Nagarkot is surrounded by gentle forest trails and quiet ridgelines that offer refreshing breaks from the city’s hustle. You’ll pass through charming villages where traditional life continues undisturbed. This is a great opportunity to interact with locals and observe their daily activities. Return to Kathmandu later in the day, taking a different scenic route if time allows. In the evening, enjoy a relaxed dinner, perhaps trying another authentic local restaurant or exploring the Thamel area further.

After breakfast, you’ll take a scenic drive or a short domestic flight to Pokhara, Nepal’s beloved lakeside city nestled beneath the towering Annapurna range. Upon arrival, you’ll immediately feel the laid-back atmosphere and natural beauty Pokhara is known for. The day begins with a serene boat ride across the calm waters of Phewa Lake, where the reflection of the snow-capped mountains on the lake surface creates a stunning visual. Mid-lake, you’ll visit the Tal Barahi Temple, a two-tiered pagoda sitting on a tiny island, significant to both Hindus and tourists for its peaceful presence. The lakeside promenade offers colorful cafes, art shops, and boutiques that you can stroll through at your leisure after the boat ride.

Your exploration continues with visits to some of Pokhara’s most iconic sites. Head to the International Mountain Museum, where you'll gain insight into the history of mountaineering, famous summiteers, and Nepal’s Himalayan heritage. Next, visit Davi’s Fall, a unique waterfall that tunnels through an underground gorge, followed by the Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, home to a sacred Shiva lingam and intricate rock formations. Afterward, stop by the Seti River Gorge, known for its milky white water and deep canyon carved into the city’s bedrock. In the late afternoon, you can relax by the lakeside with a cool drink as the sun dips behind the hills, painting the sky with pastel hues. The night offers an opportunity to dine at a lakeside restaurant, with optional live music or cultural dance performances available at select venues.

Start the day before dawn with a drive to Sarangkot, a popular hill station perched high above Pokhara, known for its panoramic sunrise view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. As the sun rises, the white Himalayan peaks are gradually set ablaze in shades of pink and gold—truly a photographer's dream and a soul-stirring experience for all who witness it. With clear weather, you may spot Mount Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Peak), revered for its pristine, untouched summit. After taking in the view, you can enjoy tea or coffee at a mountaintop café while watching paragliders soar through the sky over the Pokhara valley below.

If you’re up for it, this morning can also include an optional paragliding adventure—Pokhara is one of the world’s top destinations for tandem paragliding. Soar over lakes, villages, and forested hills while floating with the eagles. After descending back to Pokhara, return to your hotel for breakfast, followed by a relaxed afternoon. You might explore Lakeside Pokhara further—shop for handicrafts, enjoy a massage at a local wellness center, or simply lounge by the lake with a book. In the evening, walk along the illuminated streets of the lakeside as cafes come alive with music and food from all over the world, making for a mellow yet vibrant Pokhara night.

After breakfast, begin your journey to Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Nepal’s oldest and most famous wildlife reserve. The drive takes you through lush valleys, winding riversides, and charming rural villages, offering glimpses into Nepal’s countryside life. Upon arrival, you'll check into a jungle resort or lodge near the park. After a traditional Tharu welcome, including drinks and cultural greetings, you’ll be given a briefing about the activities for the next two days. Spend the afternoon relaxing, soaking in the tropical atmosphere, and exploring the lodge surroundings.

In the evening, you’ll attend a Tharu Cultural Program, where locals from the Tharu ethnic group perform traditional dances such as the Stick Dance and Peacock Dance. The performances are colorful and rhythmic, often accompanied by folk instruments and vibrant costumes that reflect centuries of heritage. You’ll also learn about their fascinating history, lifestyle, and harmonious relationship with the jungle. Dinner will be served under the open sky or in a thatched-roof dining area, often using fresh local ingredients. Rest early tonight as an exciting day of wildlife exploration awaits.

Today is dedicated to immersive jungle activities within Chitwan National Park. Begin with a thrilling jeep safari into the dense forest in search of wildlife like the endangered Royal Bengal Tiger, one-horned rhinoceros, leopards, wild elephants, and more than 500 species of birds. Your expert naturalist guide will help you track animal signs and share insights into the park’s ecosystem. The jeep route crosses grasslands, rivers, and wetlands, offering a chance to spot crocodiles basking by the Rapti River or deer grazing in open clearings.

In the afternoon, enjoy a tranquil canoe ride down the Rapti or Narayani River, where you’ll silently drift past marsh muggers and gharials (fish-eating crocodiles), watching kingfishers, storks, and other birds swoop over the water. This is followed by a visit to the elephant breeding center, where you can learn about conservation efforts and see elephant calves up close. Depending on your interest, you can also take a short guided jungle walk or participate in a village tour to meet local Tharu families. The day concludes with a sunset view from the riverbank, casting golden reflections over the water. Return to your lodge for dinner and reflection on the remarkable biodiversity you’ve just encountered.

After breakfast, say goodbye to the lush jungles of Chitwan and begin your return journey to Kathmandu. Depending on your schedule, you can opt for a comfortable drive through the countryside or a short domestic flight, both offering scenic beauty along the way. The drive passes terraced farmlands, forested hills, and vibrant roadside bazaars—an immersive way to conclude your journey across Nepal’s diverse landscapes. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you’ll have some free time for last-minute souvenir shopping or relaxing at a café in Thamel.

If your flight is later in the day, you might squeeze in a visit to a local stupa, a garden walk, or a quick massage before heading to the airport. Our representative will escort you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure, ensuring a smooth farewell. As you board your flight, you carry with you unforgettable memories—from the Himalayan sunrise in Nagarkot and the calm of Phewa Lake to the thrill of spotting wildlife in Chitwan. This culturally rich, nature-immersive journey is sure to linger in your heart long after you leave Nepal.