Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Welcome to Nepal! Once you arrive in Kathmandu, the bustling capital, your adventure begins. After a long flight, take it easy today. Check into a hotel in the heart of Thamel, a great base for exploring the city.
Spend the afternoon strolling through the busy streets of Thamel. Enjoy a relaxed dinner and maybe some live local music at one of the rooftop restaurants.
Highlights:
- Explore Thamel’s shops and cozy cafes
- Chill out with a rooftop dinner and views of the city
Day 2: Discover Kathmandu’s Historic Sites
Today, you’ll dive into the rich history and culture of Kathmandu. Start by visiting Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple. It’s situated on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the city.
In the afternoon, head to Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk around the old royal palace, intricately carved wooden temples, and indulge in some local street food.
Highlights:
- Swayambhunath Stupa – ancient Buddhist monument
- Durbar Square – incredible palaces and temples
Day 3: Day Trip to Bhaktapur
Take a day trip to Bhaktapur, about an hour’s drive from Kathmandu. Bhaktapur is Nepal’s best-preserved medieval city, known for its traditional architecture, pottery, and wood carvings.
Wander through the old city and get lost in its charming alleyways. Have lunch at a local restaurant and try the famous King Curd, a local yogurt specialty.
Highlights:
- Bhaktapur Durbar Square
- Pottery Square
- Try Bhaktapur’s delicious King Curd
Day 4: Patan and Relaxation
Today is a combination of history and relaxation. In the morning, visit Patan, another former kingdom with its own beautiful Durbar Square. Explore the museum and enjoy some traditional Newari architecture.
In the afternoon, relax at one of many garden cafes in Kathmandu. You deserve a break after all the historical explorations!
Highlights:
- Patan Durbar Square
- Patan Museum
- Chill out in a garden cafe
Day 5: Fly to Pokhara
Catch a short flight to Pokhara, Nepal’s adventure capital. Check into a lakeside hotel and admire the incredible surroundings. Spend your afternoon walking around Phewa Lake, maybe even take a short boat ride.
Pokhara is more relaxed compared to Kathmandu, making it a perfect spot to unwind before more adventures.
Highlights:
- Phewa Lake – boat rides and lakeside walks
- Pokhara – stunning mountain views and laid-back vibes
Day 6: Sarangkot Sunrise and Pokhara Exploration
Wake up early and head to Sarangkot to watch the sunrise over the Annapurna mountain range. It’s one of those moments you’ll never forget.
Afterward, head back to Pokhara to check out Davis Falls and the nearby Gupteshwor Cave. You can spend the rest of the day visiting the Peace Pagoda, which also offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
Highlights:
- Sarangkot – unforgettable Himalayan sunrise
- Peace Pagoda – stunning views and peaceful vibes
- Gupteshwor Cave and Davis Falls
Day 7: Paragliding or Relaxation
Pokhara is a hub for adventure sports. Today, if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try paragliding? It’s an incredible way to see the skyline.
If you’d rather take it slow, relax by the lake with a book or check out one of Pokhara’s many yoga centers for a rejuvenating session.
Highlights:
- Paragliding – stunning aerial views of the Himalayas
- Relax by Phewa Lake or join a yoga class
Day 8: Start the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek
It’s trekking time! Start the famous Annapurna Base Camp trek today. You’ll drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, where your hike begins. On the first day, you’ll trek to Tikhedhunga or Ulleri, passing through beautiful terraced fields and villages.
This 7-9 day trek will take you deep into the Annapurna region, an area famous for its towering mountains and rich culture.
Highlights:
- Start the ABC trek from Nayapul
- First stop: Tikhedhunga or Ulleri
Day 9 – Day 13: Annapurna Base Camp Trek
You’ll spend the next five days trekking through a variety of landscapes. From beautiful rhododendron forests to alpine meadows, the views just keep getting better.
Each day, you’ll stay at simple but welcoming tea houses along the way. The highlight, of course, is reaching Annapurna Base Camp itself, surrounded by the massive peaks of the Himalayas.
Highlights:
- Reach Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters
- Experience the hospitality of Nepali tea houses
- Incredible views of the Annapurna mountain range
Day 14: Return to Pokhara and Fly Back to Kathmandu
After completing the trek, head back to Pokhara for some well-deserved rest. In the afternoon, you’ll fly back to Kathmandu.
Spend your final evening picking up some last-minute souvenirs or heading to one of the local spas for a relaxing massage.
Highlights:
- Rest and indulge in a Pokhara spa
- Fly back to Kathmandu and prepare to say goodbye
Day 15: Departure
All good things must come to an end, and today you’ll be flying back home. Depending on your flight time, you may have some final moments to enjoy Kathmandu.
Thank you, Nepal, for an incredible two-week adventure filled with culture, history, and one-of-a-kind trekking experiences.
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