Nepal 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Nepal Itinerary: Exploring Kathmandu & Pokhara

This itinerary is designed for first-time visitors to Nepal who want a taste of both the cultural heart of Kathmandu and the natural beauty of the Himalayas.

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu & Immersion in Culture

  • Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu, Nepal.
  • Things to know:
    • Nepal requires visas for most nationalities. You can obtain one on arrival at the airport or at the border, or apply online beforehand.
    • The airport is a bit chaotic. Be prepared for crowds and potential delays.

Day 2: Kathmandu Heritage Exploration

  • Morning: Explore Durbar Square in Kathmandu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient temples, palaces, and historical structures.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), a stunning Buddhist monument overlooking the city.

Things to do:

  • Kathmandu Durbar Square:** Visit the magnificent Durbar Square, the historic center of Kathmandu, with its intricate carvings and ancient temples like the Kasthamandap Pagoda and Taleju Temple.
  • Swayambhunath Stupa: Marvel at the ancient stupa and its vibrant prayer flags, enjoy the views from the top, and experience the bustling atmosphere.

Things to know:

  • Kathmandu’s streets are narrow and crowded. Be aware of your belongings and surroundings.
  • Durbar Square:
    • Requires a ticket for entry (around US$20).
    • Lots of walking involved! Wear comfortable shoes and bring water.

Day 3: Spiritual Journey to Boudhanath & Pashupatinath Temple

  • Morning: Visit Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest stupas in the world and a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists.
  • Afternoon: Explore the sacred grounds of the Pashupatinath Temple complex, witnessing Hindu rituals and traditions.

Things to know:

  • Boudhanath: This is a popular site for pilgrims and locals. It’s important to respect the religious practices and customs taking place here.
  • Pashupatinath: Observe Hindu rituals like cremation ceremonies and prayer offerings, but remember to dress modestly (covered shoulders and legs) out of respect.

Day 4: Swayambhunath Stupa & Kathmandu Exploration

  • Swayambhunath: Visit the world-famous Boudhanath Stupa, a massive and ancient monument with a rich history.
  • Kathmandu: Explore other sights in Kathmandu like the bustling Thamel district for shopping and trekking gear, or delve into the spiritual heart of Nepal by visiting the Pashupatinath Temple.

Things to do:

  • Swayambhunath: Explore the surrounding Boudhanath area, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and observing the Buddhist monks and pilgrims.
  • Durbar Square: Visit the ancient temples & historical sites, enjoy local street food and experience the bustling culture of the Kathmandu Valley.

Day 5: Bhaktapur Day Trip

  • Explore the ancient city of Bhaktapur with its traditional architecture and vibrant Durbar Square.

Things to know:

  • Transportation: Take a bus or taxi from Kathmandu to Bhaktapur.
  • History: Learn about the ancient history of the city, including its role in the Kathmandu Valley’s ancient trade routes.

Day 6: Trekking Adventure Begins

  • Hike to Pokhara (from Kathmandu to Pokhara)

  • Things to do:

    • Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Himalayas during your trek.
    • Experience the local culture and meet fellow trekkers.

  • Things to know:

  • Transportation: You can fly or take a bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara.

Day 7: Relaxing in Pokhara & Farewell

  • Explore Phewa Lake: Take a boat ride on the serene lake, enjoy the views of the Annapurna range, and visit the Tal Barahi Temple situated on an island.

  • Experience the beauty of the Himalayas and reflect on your journey.

  • Say goodbye to Nepal: Depart from Kathmandu with memories that will last a lifetime.

Transportation:

  • Day 1-2: Internal flights are available for travel between Kathmandu and Pokhara, offering stunning views of the Himalayas. Alternatively, you can arrange for a private car or bus to take you to the starting point of your trek.

Things to know:

  • Visa Requirements: Most nationalities need a visa to enter Nepal. Check the Nepal Immigration website for details and online application options.

  • Currency: The Nepalese currency is the Nepali Rupee (NPR). You can exchange money at banks or money exchange counters in Kathmandu.

  • Travel Insurance: It’s crucial to have travel insurance that covers trekking, altitude sickness, and medical emergencies before you embark on any mountain treks in Nepal. This will protect you from unforeseen circumstances and ensure a safe journey.

Note: This itinerary is just a suggestion, and you can customize it based on your preferences and time constraints.

  • Language: Nepali is the official language of Nepal, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
  • Culture & Customs: Remember to be mindful of cultural sensitivities:
    • Remove your shoes before entering temples and religious sites.
    • Dress modestly (covered shoulders and knees) when visiting religious sites.
    • Ask permission before taking photos of people or religious objects.

Things to know:

  • Weather: The weather in the Himalayas can change rapidly, so be prepared for anything. Pack layers and rain gear!
  • Altitude: Altitude sickness is a real concern in Nepal. Acclimatize properly by taking it slow and hiking at lower altitudes before ascending to higher elevations.
  • Culture & Culture:

Things to do:

  • Pack light: You’ll be carrying your belongings on your trek, so pack only the essentials. A porter can carry most of your luggage for you.

Things to know:

  • Respect the environment: Follow Leave No Trace principles and dispose of waste responsibly.
  • Be prepared for basic accommodations: Many treks in Nepal involve staying in teahouses or teahouses along the way.
  • Culture & Culture: Pack a headlamp, a first-aid kit, and sun protection as needed.

Things to do:

  • Pack light: Bring a reusable water bottle and refill it at safe water sources.

  • Learn about the culture of the region you’re trekking in. This could be anything from temples to local traditions and festivals.

  • Pack a first-aid kit: Altitude sickness is common, so bring altitude medication just in case.

Things to know:

  • Packing light:

  • Carry a small backpack for essentials: You can carry this with you during the day or leave it at your lodge.

  • Teahouses & Food: Be prepared for the possibility of altitude sickness and have a plan to manage it (e.g., descend to a lower altitude if needed).

  • Culture: Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting villages and interacting with the people.

This is a basic outline, and you can customize it further:

  • Add a day or two for trekking: Consider extending your stay in Kathmandu to explore the surrounding areas.
  • Choose different destinations: There are many other regions in Nepal that offer fantastic trekking opportunities.
  • Book a guided tour: If you’re new to trekking or want to learn more about the Himalayas, a guided tour is a great option.

Remember: Respecting the local culture and environment will ensure you have a positive and memorable experience in Nepal. Always consult with your guide or reliable sources regarding altitude sickness precautions and safety measures for trekking.