Nepal 4 Day Itinerary

4-Day Nepal Itinerary: Kathmandu & Beyond

This itinerary offers a taste of Kathmandu’s cultural wonders and the breathtaking Himalayas.

Things to Know:

  • Currency: The currency in Nepal is the Nepali Rupee (NPR).

  • Altitude: Be mindful of altitude sickness, especially if you’re not used to high elevations. Drink plenty of water, acclimatize gradually, and listen to your body!

  • Food & Water: Always drink bottled or purified water. Avoid tap water and ice cubes made from it.

  • Safety: Nepal is generally a safe country for tourists. However, exercise usual caution with belongings and be aware of your surroundings.

  • Weather: Pack for all types of weather. The Himalayas can have sudden temperature changes, so bring layers!

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu & Kathmandu Valley Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu. Ensure you have a valid visa (see details below).
  • Transportation: Get a taxi from TIA to your hotel in Kathmandu.
  • Afternoon: Explore Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient temples and palaces.

Day 2: Kathmandu’s Cultural & Spiritual Heartbeat

  • Morning: Visit the sacred Hindu temple complex of Pashupatinath Temple, another UNESCO site where you can witness unique religious rituals.
  • Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Boudhanath Stupa, a Buddhist monument and a place to experience local culture and spirituality.
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Nepali dinner with cultural performances at a restaurant like “The Dwarika’s Hotel” or “Kathmandu Guest House”.

Day 3: Into the Himalayas

  • Morning: Take a day trip to Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient temples and palaces.
  • Afternoon: Hike to Nagi Gompa, a stunning temple situated on a hilltop overlooking Kathmandu valley.

Day 4: Departure & Lasting Impressions

  • Morning: Enjoy a final stroll through the bustling streets of Thamel, browsing souvenir shops and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
  • Afternoon: Depart from Kathmandu for your onward journey.

Visa Requirements:

  • Citizens of most developed countries can obtain a visa on arrival at TIA.

  • You’ll need to fill out an application form and provide a passport photo.

  • Visa Fees (on arrival):

    • 15 days: Free for citizens of SAARC countries, USD $30 for 15-day tourist visa (for most nationalities)
    • 90 days: USD $50 for a single entry, USD $70 for multiple entries.

  • Tourist Visa Information:

    • Most visitors require a visa to enter Nepal.

    • You can obtain one in advance online or on arrival at the following locations:

      • Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu
      • Immigration Offices located in major cities and towns

Things To Do:

  • Kathmandu: Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Kathmandu with a visit to the ancient temples and palaces. Explore the city’s bustling markets and bazaars for souvenirs and traditional crafts.
  • Patan: Marvel at the intricate architecture of Patan Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Transportation Notes:

  • Local buses: Inexpensive but can be crowded and unreliable.
  • Taxis: Widely available in Kathmandu, but always negotiate the price before getting in.
  • Trekking: Consider hiring a porter or guide for your trek, especially if you are carrying a lot of gear.

Things To Pack:

  • Layers: Pack clothes for both warm and cold weather. Nepal’s climate varies greatly depending on altitude and season.

  • Comfortable shoes: Trekking boots are essential if you plan on hiking in the mountains.

  • Backpack: Choose a size appropriate for your planned activities (day trips vs. multi-day treks).

  • Trekking gear: Backpack, sleeping bag, headlamp, water purifier, trekking poles, warm clothes (depending on the season and trek length), sturdy shoes, trekking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, rain jacket, hiking pants, comfortable clothing for trekking in the mountains

Important Considerations:

  • Weather: Kathmandu has a pleasant climate year-round. However, it is important to be prepared for the monsoon season (June-September) with waterproof gear and an umbrella.

  • Altitude Sickness: Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and have a plan in case you experience them.

  • Health & Safety: Pack a first aid kit and any necessary medications. Consider packing a small water filter or purification tablets for treating your own water.

  • Clothing: Bring comfortable, sturdy clothes and shoes suitable for walking. You’ll need to dress in layers for the varying temperatures you’ll experience.

Other Tips:

  • Learn some basic Nepali phrases before you go.

  • Respect local culture: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites (especially temples).

  • Pack light: This is especially important if you plan on trekking, as you will be carrying your own belongings.

  • Currency: Bring Nepali rupees for smaller purchases and tipping.

  • Culture & History: Explore the ancient temples of Kathmandu like Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, and the Hindu temple complex at Pashupatinath Temple.

  • Cultural sensitivity: Be respectful of religious customs and traditions when visiting temples and religious sites.

  • Bargaining: Bargaining is expected in markets.

  • Safety: Carry a copy of your passport and visa with you at all times. It’s also a good idea to leave valuables in your hotel safe.

Remember: This is just a basic framework for a 4-day trip. You can customize it based on your interests, budget, and the time of year you visit.