Day 1: Kathmandu – Explore the Heart of Nepal
Start your trip in Kathmandu, the capital city and cultural hub of Nepal. It’s busy, colorful, and full of history. Head to Swayambhunath (the Monkey Temple) first thing in the morning for a panoramic view of the city. It’s a mix of Buddhist and Hindu influences, and yes, there are monkeys everywhere. Bring your camera and be ready for some stairs.
Next, visit Durbar Square. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the historical heart of the city. Wander around and check out the old royal palaces, temples, and courtyards. Don’t miss the Kumari Ghar, home to the living goddess of Nepal.
Break for lunch at a local restaurant or café. You’ll find plenty of Nepali dishes like momos (dumplings) and dal bhat (a rice and lentil dish) on offer. It’s hearty, cheap, and delicious.
In the afternoon, visit Pashupatinath Temple. Although non-Hindus can’t enter the main temple, you can walk around the riverside and see cremation ceremonies taking place. It’s a serious but eye-opening experience into local customs and spirituality.
End your day at Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest stupas in the world. The atmosphere here is peaceful, especially around sunset when the lights come on across the stupa. Walk clockwise around the stupa, spin the prayer wheels, and soak in the calm vibe after a busy day.
Day 2: Kathmandu Valley – Cultural Day Trip
Take a day trip to Patan and Bhaktapur, two smaller cities close to Kathmandu. Both are filled with historical sites and have a slower pace compared to the capital.
Start with Patan. It’s just across the river and has its own stunning Durbar Square with ancient temples and palaces. The Patan Museum—housed in the old royal palace—is worth the visit for its collection of traditional art and bronze statues. Make sure to grab a cup of coffee or tea at Café Swotha near Patan Square after your tour.
Next, drive to Bhaktapur, about 40 minutes from Patan. Bhaktapur’s Durbar Square is also a UNESCO-listed site, and its medieval architecture has been well-preserved. Wander through the maze-like streets and check out the famous Nyatapola Temple, a five-story pagoda that’s the city’s tallest temple.
Stroll around Pottery Square and watch locals throwing clay and crafting pots by hand. Don’t be shy about picking up a few small souvenirs here too. The artisans are happy to show their work and let you take something authentic back home.
After a full day, head back to Kathmandu. The drive takes about 40-50 minutes, depending on traffic.
Day 3: Pokhara – Gateway to the Annapurnas
Take an early morning flight to Pokhara. It’s the adventure capital of Nepal and offers a much more laid-back vibe compared to Kathmandu. The flight takes just under 30 minutes (or opt for the bus if you’d rather take it slow, but it’s a 6-8 hour ride).
Once in Pokhara, head over to Phewa Lake. Rent a boat to paddle around, or just chill out by the water. You can visit the small Barahi Temple in the middle of the lake. It’s a peaceful spot for some reflection or just enjoying the scenery.
After lunch, check out the World Peace Pagoda. The pagoda sits on a hill above Lake Phewa, and you can either hike up or take a quick taxi ride. The views from the top are stunning—you’ll get a great look at the lake below and the snow-capped Annapurna range.
If you still have energy, stop by the International Mountain Museum on the way back into town. It’s a good way to learn about the history of mountaineering in Nepal and the local culture of the Himalayan people.
Wrap up your day by wandering Lakeside, the main area in town. Pop into one of the many cafes or restaurants for dinner with a view.
Day 4: Pokhara – Adventure and Views
Rise early and head to Sarangkot for a sunrise view over the Annapurna range. It’s a short 30-minute drive, but you’ll want to get there before dawn to catch that golden hour as the sun rises over the mountains. Bring warm clothes—it gets chilly in the mornings.
Afterwards, you’ve got plenty of adventure activities to choose from. If you’re into hiking but don’t want a multi-day trek, try hiking to the nearby Dhampus village. It’s a half-day trek but gives you some amazing views without the need for serious gear.
Other options for the day include paragliding over Phewa Lake or renting a scooter and driving around the countryside. There’s also zip-lining, ultralight flights, and bungee jumping if you want more extreme experiences.
After all the adrenaline, spend your evening relaxing at one of the many lakeside cafés before heading back to your hotel.
Day 5: Pokhara to Kathmandu – Back to the Capital
If you have an early flight back to Kathmandu, spend the morning enjoying a final breakfast at a lakeside café. There’s no rush—Pokhara is a pretty relaxed city, so you shouldn’t feel hurried here.
Once you’re back in Kathmandu, the afternoon is yours for last-minute sightseeing or shopping if you have time. Wander through the street markets in Thamel, picking up any souvenirs or last-minute gifts for friends and family. Things like pashminas, jewelry, prayer flags, and Nepali spices are popular items to bring back.
If you prefer something a bit quieter, the Garden of Dreams is a good spot to relax before heading to the airport. It’s a well-kept garden that feels like an oasis in the middle of the busy city.
As you wrap up your time in Nepal, make sure you reflect on the diversity you’ve experienced—bustling cities, serene lakes, ancient temples, and the mighty Himalayas.
Leave a reply