Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan Tour

Good To Know

  • Duration 8 Days
  • Activity Tour
  • Difficulty Type Easy
  • Best Season all time
  • Max. Altitude 1900
  • Accommodation 3 Star Hotel
  • Meal Breakfast
  • Trip Starts Kathmandu

an unforgettable journey through Nepal’s three most iconic destinations: Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan. This tour is a perfect blend of cultural immersion, natural beauty, and wildlife adventure, offering something for every type of traveler. The adventure begins in Kathmandu, the bustling capital city, where ancient temples, vibrant markets, and historic landmarks tell the tale of Nepal’s rich cultural heritage. From the spiritual serenity of Swayambhunath to the intricate architecture of Patan Durbar Square, Kathmandu is a treasure trove of history and tradition.

Next, you’ll travel to Pokhara, known for its stunning natural beauty. Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Pokhara offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, serene lakes, and lush green valleys. Whether it’s boating on Phewa Lake, hiking to the World Peace Pagoda, or paragliding over the city, Pokhara is a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.

The final leg of your journey takes you to Chitwan, home to Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best wildlife-viewing destinations in Asia. Here, you’ll embark on thrilling jungle safaris, canoe rides, and bird-watching tours, with the chance to see endangered species like the one-horned rhinoceros, Bengal tiger, and gharial crocodile. The Kathmandu-Pokhara-Chitwan Tour is a comprehensive experience that captures the essence of Nepal, combining its cultural richness, natural splendor, and incredible wildlife in one unforgettable itinerary.

Highlights

  • Kathmandu Valley Exploration: Discover UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa.
  • Patan Durbar Square: Explore the ancient palace complex of Patan, known for its Newari architecture and artisan crafts.
  • Scenic Drive to Pokhara: Enjoy a picturesque drive through the Himalayan foothills, with views of terraced fields, rivers, and mountain peaks.
  • Phewa Lake Boating: Relax on a serene boat ride on Phewa Lake, with stunning reflections of the Annapurna Range.
  • Sarangkot Sunrise: Witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges from Sarangkot Hill.
  • Adventure Activities in Pokhara: Experience paragliding, zip-lining, or a hike to the World Peace Pagoda with panoramic views.
  • Chitwan Jungle Safari: Explore Chitwan National Park on a jeep or elephant safari, spotting wildlife like rhinos, tigers, and deer.
  • Canoe Ride on the Rapti River: Glide through the waters of the Rapti River, keeping an eye out for gharial crocodiles and water birds.
  • Tharu Cultural Program: Immerse yourself in the local Tharu culture with a traditional dance performance in Chitwan.
  • Bird Watching in Chitwan: Discover Chitwan’s rich avian life, with over 500 species of birds, including hornbills, kingfishers, and storks.

Itinerary

Inclusions/Exclusions

What's Included

  • Accommodation: Hotels in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan with options ranging from budget to luxury.
  • Meals: Breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara; all meals in Chitwan (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
  • Transportation: Private vehicle for all transfers and sightseeing; flights or tourist bus options between cities.
  • Permits and Entrance Fees: All necessary permits and entry fees for national parks and heritage sites.
  • Guide and Porter: Experienced tour guide and, if needed, a porter for luggage handling.
  • Safari and Wildlife Activities: Jungle safari, canoe ride, bird watching, and Tharu cultural program in Chitwan.

What's Excluded

  • Personal Expenses: Snacks, drinks, souvenirs, and personal shopping.
  • Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance covering trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and evacuation.
  • International Flights: Flights to and from Nepal.
  • Visa Fees: Nepal entry visa fees.
  • Tipping: Tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff.
  • Adventure Activities: Optional activities like paragliding, zip-lining, and ultralight flights in Pokhara.

Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan Tour Essential Info

Visa and Entry Requirements

To enter Nepal, you will need a valid passport and a tourist visa. Visas can be obtained on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or at Nepalese embassies and consulates abroad. The visa fee depends on the duration of your stay, with options for 15, 30, and 90 days. Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity remaining and bring passport-sized photos for the visa application. Visa fees can be paid in major currencies, including USD, EUR, and GBP.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to undertake the Kathmandu-Pokhara-Chitwan tour is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer pleasant weather, clear skies, and moderate temperatures, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Winter (December to February) can be chilly in Kathmandu and Pokhara, but the weather is mild in Chitwan. The monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rainfall, which can cause travel disruptions, but also transforms the landscapes into lush greenery.

Packing List

Packing for the Kathmandu-Pokhara-Chitwan tour requires a mix of light and warm clothing, as temperatures can vary between destinations. Essential items include:

  • Clothing: Lightweight, breathable clothes for the day; a warm jacket or fleece for cooler evenings; comfortable walking shoes; and a rain jacket during the monsoon season.
  • Accessories: Sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
  • Gear: A daypack for carrying essentials, a reusable water bottle, and a camera with extra batteries.
  • Documents: Passport, travel insurance details, visa copies, and extra passport-sized photos.

Health and Safety

Nepal is generally a safe destination, but it’s important to take standard precautions, especially in crowded areas like Kathmandu. Drink only bottled or purified water, avoid street food, and ensure your vaccinations are up-to-date before traveling. In Chitwan, follow the safety guidelines provided by your guide during jungle safaris and wildlife activities. Carry a basic first-aid kit with medications for common ailments like diarrhea, headaches, and insect bites.

Cultural Etiquette

Nepal is a culturally rich country with deep-rooted traditions and religious practices. When visiting temples and monasteries, dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees. Remove your shoes before entering religious sites and refrain from touching statues or religious objects. Always ask for permission before photographing people, particularly in rural areas or religious contexts. Respect the local customs, and avoid pointing your feet at people or religious symbols, as this is considered disrespectful.

Transportation Options

The tour includes a mix of private vehicles for city transfers and sightseeing, as well as options for flights or tourist buses between Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan. The roads in Nepal can be winding and bumpy, especially in rural areas, so it’s advisable to carry motion sickness tablets if you’re prone to car sickness. Flights between Kathmandu and Pokhara offer stunning aerial views of the Himalayas and are a quicker alternative to road travel.

Accommodation and Dining

Accommodation in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan ranges from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels, catering to different preferences and budgets. Most hotels offer comfortable rooms with modern amenities, including Wi-Fi, hot showers, and room service. In Chitwan, jungle lodges provide an immersive experience with nature, offering eco-friendly accommodations and meals prepared with fresh, local ingredients. Dining options vary from traditional Nepali cuisine, like dal bhat (lentils and rice), to international dishes, ensuring something for everyone.

Adventure Activities in Pokhara

Pokhara is a hub for adventure sports, offering activities like paragliding, zip-lining, and ultralight flights. Paragliding from Sarangkot Hill is particularly popular, providing a bird’s-eye view of the city, Phewa Lake, and the surrounding mountains. Zip-lining is another thrilling activity, where you can glide through the air at speeds of up to 100 km/h. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, ultralight flights offer panoramic views of the Annapurna range and the opportunity to fly close to the mountain peaks.

Wildlife and Nature in Chitwan

Chitwan National Park is renowned for its biodiversity, offering a rare chance to see wildlife like the one-horned rhinoceros, Bengal tiger, and various species of deer, monkeys, and birds. The park’s dense forests and grasslands are best explored on a jungle safari, either by jeep or elephant-back. Canoeing on the Rapti River is another highlight, where you can spot gharial crocodiles and aquatic birds. For bird watchers, Chitwan is a paradise, with over 500 species of birds, including peacocks, kingfishers, and storks.

Shopping and Souvenirs

Nepal offers a wide range of unique handicrafts and souvenirs, including handwoven pashmina shawls, Thangka paintings, Tibetan singing bowls, and traditional Nepali jewelry. In Kathmandu, the markets of Thamel and Ason Bazaar are popular for souvenir shopping, while Patan and Bhaktapur are known for their artisan crafts. Pokhara’s Lakeside area also has numerous shops selling local products. When shopping, be prepared to haggle, as bargaining is a common practice in Nepali markets.

FAQs