7 Days Nepal Kathmandu & Pokhara Hiking Tour

After breakfast at your hotel, you will begin a deep dive into the cultural soul of the Kathmandu Valley, exploring its ancient cities and living traditions. Your journey starts at the Ason Tole Vegetable and Spice Market, the oldest and busiest marketplace in the city. Navigating its narrow alleys offers a raw and vibrant look at the daily lives of local traders and the sensory explosion of Himalayan spices.

Later, you will move to the magnificent Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. This historic seat of royalty is home to the Kumari Temple, where you may catch a glimpse of the Living Goddess. You will also admire the towering Taleju Temple and the formidable stone relief of Kal Bhairav from the square's historic courtyard.

In the afternoon, a short drive takes you to the city of Patan (Lalitpur). Renowned for its fine arts and metalwork, you will explore Patan Durbar Square, a masterpiece of Newari architecture. Your day concludes at the Swayambhunath Stupa (the Monkey Temple). As the most ancient and enigmatic shrine in the valley, this hilltop stupa provides a breathtaking panoramic view of Kathmandu as the sun begins to set. Finally, you will be driven back to your hotel.

Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Professional Advice:
When exploring the bustling markets of Ason Tole, keep your camera ready but be mindful of the heavy foot traffic. At Swayambhunath, the 365-step climb is a great way to "warm up" your legs for the hiking days ahead. Please be cautious with the local monkeys—they are known for being quite bold with food and loose items! For the best experience, we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and carrying a small bag for your temple entrance tickets, as you will need to present them at multiple checkpoints.

Following breakfast, your cultural odyssey continues to the monumental Boudhanath Stupa, known locally as "Chorten Chenpo." As one of the largest spherical stupas in the world, its massive white dome and the watchful "Painted Eyes of Buddha" create a profound atmosphere of peace and devotion. Next, you will visit Pashupatinath, the most sacred Hindu temple complex in Nepal dedicated to Lord Shiva. Revered as the "Temple of Living Beings," this site on the banks of the Bagmati River offers a deep look into the spiritual rituals and traditions of Hindu life.

In the afternoon, a scenic drive leads you to the medieval city of Bhaktapur, the "City of Devotees." You will step back in time at Bhaktapur Durbar Square, where the 55-Window Palace and the Golden Gate showcase the pinnacle of Newari woodcarving and masonry. To complete your day, visit the ancient Changu Narayan Temple. Perched on a high ridge, it is considered the oldest temple in Nepal and is celebrated as one of the seven UNESCO World Heritage structures in the valley. You will return to your hotel in Kathmandu for the evening.

Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Professional Advice:
At Pashupatinath, please be mindful that while the main temple is restricted to Hindus, the surrounding complex offers a full view of the sacred riverbank ceremonies; photography of cremation rituals should be avoided out of respect. In Bhaktapur, don't miss the chance to try "Juju Dhau" (The King Curd), a rich and creamy yogurt served in traditional clay pots that is a local delicacy. This is also an excellent day to browse for authentic thangka paintings and handmade pottery for which the city is world-famous.

After breakfast, you will leave the bustle of Kathmandu behind for a scenic 4.5-hour drive toward Pokhara, the gateway to the Annapurna range. To break the journey, you will stop at Bandipur, a beautifully preserved hilltop settlement. Often described as a "living museum," Bandipur showcases authentic Newari culture with its traditional 18th-century architecture, brick-paved streets, and vibrant bougainvillea. It is the perfect place to enjoy a local lunch while taking in the sweeping mountain views.

Upon arriving in the lakeside city of Pokhara, you will check into your hotel. The rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. You can relax by the pool, explore the many artisanal shops along the lakeside, or simply sit at a café and watch the colorful wooden boats drift across the water.

Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Professional Advice:
The road to Pokhara offers stunning views of the Trishuli River, where you might see white-water rafters below. If you are prone to motion sickness, we recommend sitting in the front of the vehicle as the road can be winding. Once in Pokhara, the 'Lakeside' area is incredibly pedestrian-friendly and safe for evening strolls; it's a great time to pick up any last-minute hiking gear or snacks for the active days ahead.

Your day begins with the tranquil beauty of Phewa Lake, the second-largest lake in Nepal. After breakfast, you will board a private boat to glide across the emerald waters, which perfectly reflect the snow-capped peaks of the Annapurna range on a clear day.

After reaching the southern shore, you will begin a scenic hike up to the World Peace Pagoda (Shanti Stupa). This massive white monument sits atop a ridge, offering one of the most famous panoramic views in the world—overlooking Pokhara city, the lake, and the towering Machapuchare (Fishtail) mountain.

In the afternoon, you will explore the geological wonders of the valley. First, visit Devi's Fall, a dramatic waterfall where the Pardi Khola river disappears into an underground tunnel. Just across the street, descend into the Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, a sacred Hindu site housing a natural stalagmite shrine. Your day concludes at the International Mountain Museum, where you can learn about the history of Himalayan mountaineering and the diverse cultures of the mountain people.

Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Professional Advice:
The hike to the World Peace Pagoda takes about 45 to 60 minutes through shaded forest trails. While it is a moderate climb, we recommend wearing shoes with good grip and carrying a light jacket, as the breeze at the summit can be cool. When visiting the Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, please be prepared for damp and slightly slippery steps inside the cavern. At the World Peace Pagoda, remember to maintain a quiet atmosphere as it is a place of active meditation and worship.

Your day begins before dawn for a truly unforgettable experience. A short drive and a light trek bring you to the Sarangkot viewpoint, the premier spot for witnessing the Himalayan sunrise. As the first rays of light hit the snow-capped peaks, you will see the Annapurna Range and the iconic, needle-pointed Machapuchare (Fishtail Mountain) turn from icy blue to brilliant gold.

After returning to the hotel for a well-earned breakfast, you will be transferred to Pokhara Airport for a quick, scenic flight back to Kathmandu. Flying over the lush foothills offers one last aerial view of the mountains you've been admiring.

In the afternoon, you will have free time to explore Thamel, Kathmandu's most famous tourist district. It is the perfect place for last-minute souvenir shopping or relaxing in a rooftop café. To celebrate the conclusion of your journey, you will enjoy a farewell dinner featuring authentic Nepali cuisine accompanied by a vibrant traditional cultural dance performance.

Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner (Traditional Cultural Show)

Professional Advice:
Sarangkot can be quite chilly in the early morning, even in the spring or autumn, so we highly recommend wearing layers and bringing a warm hat. For the flight back to Kathmandu, try to sit on the left-hand side of the plane for the best views of the Himalayan range. During the farewell dinner, don't be afraid to try the "Dal Bhat"—it's the national dish of Nepal and the best way to end your culinary journey through the country.

Enjoy your final breakfast in the shadow of the Himalayas. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some leisure time for a last stroll through the streets of Kathmandu. This is a great opportunity to pick up any final souvenirs—perhaps some Himalayan tea, hand-woven pashminas, or local handicrafts—to take a piece of Nepal home with you.

At the designated time, your private vehicle and driver will meet you at the hotel to provide a comfortable transfer to Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM). As you check in for your departure flight, you'll carry with you the vibrant memories of ancient Durbar Squares, the serene beauty of Pokhara, and the golden sunrise over the snow-capped peaks. We wish you a safe and pleasant journey onward!

Accommodation: /
Meals: Breakfast

Professional Advice:
Traffic in Kathmandu can be unpredictable, especially during peak hours. We recommend leaving your hotel at least 3 to 3.5 hours before your international flight departure to ensure a stress-free check-in. Before leaving for the airport, double-check that you have all your travel documents and that your power banks are in your carry-on luggage, as they are not allowed in checked bags at KTM. Safe travels!