7 days Nepal Itinerary

Discover Nepal, a mesmerizing blend of beauty, culture, and history in the Himalayas. Club Mahindra presents a 7-day Nepal itinerary designed for an immersive experience into the nation’s vibrant heritage and breathtaking landscapes. From Kathmandu's dynamic atmosphere to Pokhara’s serene beauty and Chitwan's abundant wildlife, this journey offers a spectrum of adventures and wonderful accommodations.

Perfect for nature lovers, culture lovers and those seeking tranquillity, our tailored itinerary promises to connect you deeply with Nepal's welcoming people and majestic scenery. Join us to explore Nepal’s spiritual ambience and natural wonders, ensuring a memorable and transformative travel experience.

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

Morning: Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport

Begin your Nepal trip itinerary adventure the moment you land at Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport, the gateway to Nepal. As you step off the plane, feel the crisp Himalayan air and get ready for an exciting journey ahead. The airport is well-equipped to welcome international travellers, ensuring a smooth entry to this historic city.

Afternoon: Check-in at Club Mahindra Soaltee Kathmandu

After collecting your baggage, a comfortable ride awaits to take you to the Club Mahindra Soaltee Kathmandu. This premier resort in Nepal is known for its cosy accommodations and exemplary service. As you settle into your room, take some time to refresh and relax before you start your exploration of the vibrant city.

Thamel Area

Explore the streets of Thamel, a bustling tourist hotspot in Kathmandu. This lively district is a treasure trove of shops, eateries, and boutiques, offering everything from handmade crafts to traditional Nepali clothing. Stroll through the narrow alleys and experience the vibrant culture of Kathmandu.

Thamel is the heart of Nepal’s tourism and a melting pot of international travellers. Known for its narrow, bustling streets filled with shops and cafes, it’s the perfect place to get acclimated to the lively atmosphere of Kathmandu.

Handicraft markets where you can purchase traditional Nepali goods like pashmina shawls, prayer flags, and hand-painted mandalas.

As the commercial hub that has welcomed travellers for decades, Thamel is a microcosm of Nepal’s hospitality and diverse cultural heritage.

Dive into the sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells with a visit to local eateries, sample authentic Nepali street food, or simply soak in the ambience with a cup of Nepali chai.

• Opening Time: Most shops and attractions open around 10:00 AM.
• Entry Fee: Free to explore, though you might spend on shopping and food.

Evening: Traditional Nepalese Dinner and Cultural Show

Cap off your first day in Nepal with a traditional Nepalese dinner accompanied by a cultural performance. This experience not only tantalizes your taste buds with flavours of local cuisine but also enchants you with the rhythmic beats of traditional music and dance.

Enjoy a gala dinner featuring a variety of Nepali dishes, ranging from savoury momos to hearty dal bhat, set against the backdrop of a live cultural performance.

Cultural performances showcasing ethnic dances and music from various regions of Nepal.

These performances are a vibrant introduction to the rich tapestry of Nepal’s cultural heritage, providing insights into the customs and traditions of different Nepalese communities.

Watch skilled performers in traditional attire, enjoy the storytelling through dance, and engage with the culture in an intimate and festive setting.

• Timings: Cultural shows usually start around 6:00 PM.
• Entry Fee: Approximately NPR 2000-3000 per person for dinner and show.

For Day 2, let's explore the historic and cultural highlights of Kathmandu with a full day dedicated to sightseeing:

Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing

Morning: Pashupatinath Temple

Start day 2 of your Nepal tour itinerary with a visit to the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most significant Hindu temples of Lord Shiva in the world. Located on the banks of the Bagmati River, this temple is a beautiful display of architectural brilliance and spiritual significance.

Pashupatinath Temple is a sprawling temple complex with a history that stretches back over centuries. It serves as a spiritual centre for Hindu devotees from Nepal and India alike. It is a must addition to your 7 days Nepal itinerary. 

Witness the morning rituals and aarti, observe the unique funeral rites performed on the ghats, and explore the numerous small temples within the complex.

As a major pilgrimage site, Pashupatinath plays a crucial role in the religious life of devout Hindus and is a focal point during the festival of Maha Shivaratri.

You should attend the morning aarti for a spiritual experience, explore the surrounding woods, and watch the sadhus in their colourful attire.

• Opening Time: The temple precinct opens at 4:00 AM, with the inner sanctum accessible from 5:00 AM.
• Entry Fee: NPR 1,000 for foreign visitors.

Afternoon: Boudhanath Stupa and Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)

Boudhanath Stupa

Next on your Nepal travel itinerary, visit the Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world, renowned for its massive mandala and as a beacon of Buddhist faith and culture.

Dominating the skyline, this massive stupa stands as a monument of peace and serenity. Its massive dome and the ever-watchful eyes painted on it oversee a bustling courtyard encircled by prayer wheels and fluttering prayer flags.

Circumambulate the stupa alongside monks and devotees, each spinning prayer wheels for good karma.

A pivotal hub of Tibetan Buddhism, Boudhanath is a vital place of pilgrimage and meditation for Tibetan Buddhists and Nepalese alike, especially during Losar (Tibetan New Year).

Explore the surrounding monasteries, engage in meditation sessions, and shop for Tibetan handicrafts.

• Opening Time: Open all day, but shops and surrounding monasteries generally open around 9:00 AM.
• Entry Fee: NPR 400 per person.

Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)

Conclude the day 2 afternoon of your Nepal trip itinerary with a visit to Swayambhunath, affectionately known as the Monkey Temple, perched on a hilltop with panoramic views of Kathmandu.

This ancient stupa is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in Nepal, surrounded by a mix of shrines and temples and a host of resident monkeys.

The iconic stupa, adorned with Buddha’s eyes and eyebrows painted on, offers a spectacular view of the city below.

Known for its historical and religious importance, Swayambhunath is a symbol of peace and has been an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists for centuries.

Explore the temple complex, feed the monkeys (cautiously), and enjoy the art and architecture that narrate tales from a bygone era.

• Opening Time: Opens around 5:00 AM, though the museum opens later at 9:00 AM.
• Entry Fee: NPR 200 for SAARC nationals and NPR 350 for other foreigners.

Evening: Patan Durbar Square 

End your day 2 evening of your Nepal trip itinerary with an evening stroll through Patan Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its exquisite craftsmanship and architectural treasures.

Patan Durbar Square is the historical heart of Patan, showcasing a concentration of ancient art, culture, and architecture.

The square features an array of temples, idols, and courtyards, as well as the Patan Museum, which houses artefacts that trace the history of the Malla kings.

The square and its surroundings are quintessential examples of Newari architecture and reflect the historical significance of the Malla dynasty in Nepalese history.

Visit the museum, explore the royal palace, and admire the craftsmanship of the stone carvers and metal workers still active in the area.

• Opening Time: The square is always open, but the museum and other buildings typically open around 10:00 AM.
• Entry Fee: NPR 1,000 for foreigners, which includes entrance to the museum.

Day 3: Kathmandu to Pokhara

Morning: Flight or Drive to Pokhara

Embark on a scenic journey to Pokhara on the Day 3 of 7 days Nepal itinerary. You can travel either by a quick flight or a road trip. Each mode of transport offers its own unique views of Nepal’s diverse landscape—from the majestic Himalayas visible from the air to the verdant river valleys and quaint villages along the road.

Flying provides a bird’s eye view of the Himalayas and is a time-efficient way to travel, while driving allows for multiple stops at interesting locations along the route, such as the Trishuli River.

Afternoon: Phewa Lake

After settling into your accommodations in Pokhara, spend the afternoon at Phewa Lake, the second-largest lake in Nepal, known for its tranquillity and the stunning reflection of Machhapuchhre and other mountain ranges in its waters.

Phewa Lake is the heart of Pokhara, offering opportunities for boating, photography, and leisurely walks along the lakeside.

The lake is a popular gathering spot for both locals and tourists, providing a serene escape from the daily hustle. You can rent a boat and paddle to the island temple, enjoy a lakeside meal, or simply relax by the water.

• Opening Time: Boating starts at around 9:00 AM.
• Entry Fee: Boating charges apply, approximately NPR 500 per boat for an hour.

Evening: Tal Barahi Temple

Conclude day 3 of your Nepal trip itinerary with a peaceful visit to the Tal Barahi Temple, offering spiritual solace and a chance to observe religious practices amidst a stunning natural setting.

This two-story pagoda temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Barahi and is surrounded by the serene waters of Phewa Lake. Its unique location offers a panoramic view of the surrounding lake and hills.

The temple is an important religious site for local devotees, featuring prominently in local festivals and rituals. Tourists should participate in the evening aarti, feed pigeons, or sit back and enjoy the sunset over the lake.

• Opening Time: Accessible throughout the day; the best time for a visit is in the late afternoon or early evening.
• Entry Fee: There is no entry fee to visit the temple, but donations are welcome.

For Day 4, we’ll explore the natural wonders and peaceful spots around Pokhara, which offers stunning views and spiritual serenity.

Day 4: Exploring Pokhara

Morning: Sarangkot

Begin your day early with a trip to Sarangkot, a premier location for witnessing the sunrise over the Himalayas. It’s a sight that’s both awe-inspiring and humbling as the early light bathes the peaks in hues of orange and gold.

Sarangkot is a small village known for its breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre. Sunrise views illuminate the snow-capped peaks of some of the tallest mountains in the world.

The site is not only a tourist attraction but also a place where locals come to enjoy the natural beauty and find peace. Watching the sunrise, paragliding, and photography is a must addition to a Nepal trip itinerary.

• Opening Time: Accessible 24 hours, but best visited at sunrise.
• Entry Fee: NPR 50 per person.

Afternoon: World Peace Pagoda

After returning from Sarangkot, visit the World Peace Pagoda, one of over 80 such structures around the world, built as a symbol of peace. Situated atop a hill, it provides a splendid view of the Pokhara Valley and the lake.

The stupa is a brilliant white monument with a golden spire on top, surrounded by a manicured garden that offers a tranquil environment for reflection and meditation.

The pagoda itself and the panoramic views of Pokhara, Phewa Lake, and the mountains beyond.

It represents peace and has become a site of pilgrimage for peace activists and spiritual seekers from around the globe. Tourists can meditate, enjoy a picnic with a view, and trek around the surrounding area.

• Opening Time: Open all day, but daytime offers the best visibility.
• Entry Fee: No entry fee.

Evening: International Mountain Museum

End your day 4 of Nepal tour itinerary with a visit to the International Mountain Museum in Pokhara, which is dedicated to the mountains of Nepal, the climbers who have scaled them, and the people who inhabit them.

This museum houses extensive exhibits that include information on the world’s mountain systems, mountain cultures, environments, prominent peaks, and the history of mountain climbing.

Displays that cover famous expeditions, including a detailed section on Mount Everest and the history of the Sherpa people. The museum preserves and showcases the rich heritage of the Himalayan peaks and provides education on the importance of mountains and environmental conservation.

You can explore the exhibits, watch documentaries about mountain expeditions, and visit the Hall of Fame for mountaineers.

• Opening Time: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
• Entry Fee: NPR 500 per person.

For Day 5, we journey from the tranquil beauty of Pokhara to the adventurous and wildlife-rich environment of Chitwan. This day focuses on transitioning between different natural landscapes and preparing for the excitement of wildlife exploration.

Day 5: Travel from Pokhara to Chitwan

Morning: Departure from Pokhara

Begin your day 5 on the Nepal tour itinerary with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Chitwan National Park. This journey takes you through the changing landscapes of Nepal, from the mountainous regions around Pokhara to the subtropical plains of the Terai.

The drive from Pokhara to Chitwan is picturesque and allows travellers to see the diverse geography of Nepal. Along the way, observe rural life, terraced farming, and river valleys. You can stop at local attractions, take photos of the landscape, and enjoy brief interactions with locals at stops.

• Opening Time: Start early to maximize daylight; departures typically around 7:00 AM.
• Entry Fee: No specific entry fees for the journey, but prepare for small expenses like snacks or souvenirs.

Afternoon: Check-in at Club Mahindra Soaltee Westend Resort Chitwan

Arrive in Chitwan and check into the Club Mahindra Soaltee Westend Resort, which provides a comfortable base for your upcoming jungle adventures. After settling in, take some time to relax and enjoy the resort’s amenities before the evening activities begin.

Nestled on the edge of Chitwan National Park, the resort offers a perfect blend of comfort and nature, with easy access to the park’s wildlife and natural beauty. This resort in Nepal gives you comfortable accommodations that offer a serene environment, ideal for relaxation after a long drive.

The location of this resort in Chitwan, Nepal, adds a layer of connectivity to the local Tharu culture, which is known for its rich traditions and close relationship with the natural environment. Club Mahindra members can explore the resort, take a dip in the pool, or enjoy a spa treatment.

Evening: Tharu Cultural Show

Enhance your Nepal tour itinerary with a captivating evening at a Tharu cultural show, a key highlight of our 7-day Nepal travel itinerary. 

This event offers a vibrant display of the indigenous Tharu people's traditions through dance and music, providing a profound cultural insight as part of your Nepal trip itinerary. 

The performance, featuring traditional stick dances and songs, is a vivid portrayal of the Tharu way of life, integral to understanding the diverse cultural fabric of Nepal. 

This show is a must-see attraction, making it a unique and enriching part of any Nepal itinerary, where you can not only observe but also interact with performers and learn their dance steps, deepening your connection to Nepal's heritage during your Nepal travel itinerary.

• Opening Time: Shows usually start around 6:00 PM.
• Entry Fee: Approximately NPR 300-500 per person.

Day 6: Wildlife in Chitwan National Park

Morning: Elephant Safari or Jeep Safari

Begin day 6 of your Nepal travel itinerary with an early morning safari, a highlight of any visit to Chitwan National Park. Choose between an elephant-back safari or a jeep safari to venture into the heart of the park, where you can spot a variety of wildlife.

Chitwan National Park is renowned for its biodiversity, including rare species like the one-horned rhinoceros and Bengal tiger. Elephant safaris offer a unique vantage point and are a gentle way to explore the dense parts of the forest, while jeep safaris provide a faster and broader coverage of the park. Safaris in Chitwan reflect Nepal’s commitment to conservation and the sustainable integration of local communities in tourism.

Visitors can spot diverse wildlife, including deer, rhinos, wild boars, and, with some luck, the elusive tiger. Birdwatching is also excellent here.

• Opening Time: Safaris start early to catch animals when they are most active, around 6:00 AM.
• Entry Fee: Costs vary; approximately NPR 1,500-2,500 depending on the type of safari.

Afternoon: Canoe Trip on the Rapti River and Visit the Elephant Breeding Centre

Canoe Trip on the Rapti River

After returning from your morning safari, take a leisurely canoe trip on the Rapti River. This activity allows you to experience the quieter side of the park’s ecosystem, primarily focusing on aquatic life and birds.

The canoe trip involves drifting down the serene Rapti River in a traditional dugout canoe, perfect for enjoying the natural beauty and spotting wildlife, especially crocodiles and water birds.

This canoe trip promises peaceful views of the riverbanks, where you might see animals coming to drink or bathe. Visitors can observe marsh mugger crocodiles, gharials, and a variety of waterfowl.

• Opening Time: Canoe trips generally start after breakfast and last about 1-2 hours.
• Entry Fee: Approximately NPR 1,000 per person.

Visit to the Elephant Breeding Centre

Next on the Nepal trip itinerary is a visit to the Elephant Breeding Centre in the afternoon. This centre is dedicated to increasing the population of Asian elephants, an integral part of the ecosystem in Chitwan. The centre focuses on the conservation and breeding of elephants, offering visitors a chance to learn about these majestic creatures and the efforts to protect them.

Meeting elephants up close, especially the calves, and learning about the breeding and conservation efforts.

Elephants have a storied history in Nepal, being integral to both forestry management and cultural festivals. Indulge yourself in meeting elephants up close, especially the calves, and learning about the breeding and conservation efforts.

• Opening Time: The centre is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
• Entry Fee: NPR 500 per person.

Evening: Leisure time at the Resort

Conclude your adventurous day with some well-deserved leisure time at Club Mahindra Soaltee Westend Resort. Take advantage of the resort's amenities or simply relax and reflect on the experiences of the day.

The resort offers a peaceful setting ideal for unwinding after a day full of activities. Whether it's a swim in the pool, a spa treatment, or a quiet dinner, the environment is perfect for relaxation.

Club Mahindra members can enjoy a spa session, dine at the resort’s restaurant featuring local and international cuisine, or relax by the pool.

Day 7: Return to Kathmandu and Departure

Morning: Travel back to Kathmandu

Your final day starts with a morning departure from Chitwan to Kathmandu. Enjoy the last views of the lush Nepalese countryside as you make your way back to the capital city. This journey allows for some final reflections on the experiences and memories gathered throughout the trip.

The drive back to Kathmandu retraces the scenic route through Nepal’s diverse landscapes, providing one last opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty.

Afternoon: Last-minute shopping in Kathmandu

End your Nepal tour itinerary with a memorable visit to Kathmandu's lively markets for last-minute shopping. As a vibrant part of any Nepal itinerary, these local markets, including the popular Thamel district, offer an array of traditional crafts, spices, teas, and handcrafted souvenirs that capture the essence of Nepal. 

This is a perfect addition to your Nepal travel itinerary, allowing you to pick up unique items like traditional Nepali clothing, artwork, and jewellery. 

Supporting local artisans and small businesses enriches your Nepal trip itinerary, helping sustain the local economy and preserve traditional crafts. Enjoy bargaining for handmade goods, tasting local snacks, and immersing yourself in the bustling, colourful market atmosphere to wrap up your Nepal itinerary on a high note.

Opening Time: Markets are generally open from around 10:00 AM.

Evening: Departure from Kathmandu

Conclude your Nepal travel itinerary at Tribhuvan International Airport as you prepare for your departure. 

This final stop in your Nepal trip itinerary is a moment to reflect on the memories and experiences collected from this land of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Departing Nepal, you take with you not only souvenirs from your Nepal tour itinerary but also meaningful stories that bridge cultures and a deeper connection to this remarkable destination. 

Saying goodbye to Nepal, you carry back a treasure trove of experiences from your 7-day Nepal itinerary, making it a journey to cherish.

Conclusion: A Week of Enchantment in Nepal

This 7-day Nepal travel itinerary captures the essence of a truly immersive travel experience, one that blends breathtaking landscapes, rich history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. From the sacred temples of Kathmandu to the serene lakes of Pokhara and the wild beauty of Chitwan National Park, each day on this itinerary unveils a different side of Nepal. Designed with Club Mahindra members in mind, this trip ensures comfort in each destination, with resorts providing an oasis of relaxation after daily adventures.

Club Mahindra is dedicated to providing members with unique travel experiences, and Nepal awaits you with open arms, ready to share its stories, traditions, and unmatched landscapes.