7 Days Kathmandu and Pokhara Tour

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Kathmandu and Pokhara Tour
Quick Overview
Duration7 Days
Trip GradeEasy
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude1,400m / 4,593ft
Group Size2-20
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
ActivitiesKathmandu, Pokhara Tour
Best TimeFeb, Mar, April, May, June, Sep, Oct, Nov & Dec

Compare Our Three Packages

  Budget Standard Luxury
Price from $450 $800 $1700
Meals Breakfast only (BB basis) All meals included (B/L/D) All meals + all drinks (except alcohol)
Hotel Tourist hotel 3-star hotel Luxury hotel
Transport Local vehicle Private tourist vehicle Luxury private vehicle
SIM data SIM only Limited data Unlimited data
Best for Budget-conscious travellers Comfortable touring Premium experience

Himalayas for Every Budget — same destinations, same safety, three comfort levels.

This carefully planned 7-day tour package of Nepal is the best way to see the country's most popular areas, combining cultural experiences with beautiful views of the Himalayas. Start in Kathmandu by visiting historic UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the holy Pashupatinath Temple, the famous Boudhanath Stupa, and the old Kathmandu Durbar Square. The trip goes on with a beautiful drive to the lakeside city of Pokhara, which is a top spot for outdoor tourism. Here, enjoy the peace of a boat trip on Phewa Lake, where you can see stunningly clear views of the Annapurna range. Then, from Sarangkot, watch a beautiful sunrise over the Himalayas. This tour, which includes everything, is perfect for people who are coming to Nepal for the first time or with their family. It offers a complete experience of the country's beautiful nature and rich history without the need for difficult hikes.

Major highlight

  • Swayambhunath, or the "Monkey Temple": an old stupa with views of the whole city that monkeys see as a place of worship.
  • The Boudhanath Stupa is one of the biggest round stupas in the world and is the heart of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal.
  • Pashupatinath Temple: A holy Hindu temple complex on the Bagmati River, where bodies have been burned for centuries.
  • Kathmandu Durbar Square: A historic palace group with shrines, detailed wood and stone architecture, and the living goddess Kumari.
  • Thamel District: A lively and busy center for tourists to shop, eat, and feel the energy of the city.
  • Phewa Lake Boat Trip: Enjoy a peaceful rowboat ride with the stunning reflection of the Annapurna range in the water. 
  • Explore Natural Sites: Visit intriguing caves and the powerful Devi's Falls (Devi's Fall).
  • It's great for first-time travellers, families, and anybody who wants to see all of Nepal's culture, nature, and wildlife in one easy trip.

7 Days Kathmandu, Pokhara Tour Overview 

Take a traditional 7-day trip through the heart of Nepal. It's a great way to get to know a country where old customs and stunning natural beauty coexist. This carefully planned journey is your ticket to the heart of the Himalayas. It includes a mix of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, peaceful lakeside spots, and stunning mountain views. This journey is for people who want to explore Nepal's most popular places deeply and memorably without having to trek.

Our journey starts in Kathmandu, the lively capital city, where centuries-old temples and palaces lie  in  the  middle  of  busy  streets.  You'll  visit  holy  places  like  Swayambhunath  (the  Monkey Temple) and the old Durbar Squares, where you can experience the city's regal and spiritual past. The trip then takes you on a beautiful drive to Pokhara, Nepal's adventure capital, which is located next to the peaceful Phewa Lake and has amazing views of the Annapurna mountain range.

You'll exchange old courtyards for fresh mountain air in Pokhara, where you can see the World Peace Pagoda and the mysterious Gupteshwor Cave. One of the best parts of the trip is the morning  trip  to  Sarangkot,  a  hill  town  famous  for  having  the  best  views  of  the  Himalayas  at sunrise, including a view of Mount the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges on a clear day. This journey perfectly combines the rich culture of Kathmandu Valley with the peaceful beauty of Pokhara, making for a memorable Himalayan vacation.

Reminder

For  a  smooth  and  easy  start,  we  recommend  arriving  in  Kathmandu  by  4  PM  the  day before we leave. This gives you enough time for a final gear check, a trip briefing with your guide, and to ensure you have everything you need before heading out on the trek.

Online briefing

This online meeting serves as our first coffee before the trip! This online meeting is your opportunity to learn about everything that will happen on the trip. We'll discuss what to bring, what each day on the route will be like, and how it will feel.  After you book, we'll send you an email with a couple of times when we can talk. We'll set up our pre-adventure meeting as soon as you submit the papers we need. Also, our  tour  itinerary  does not include your hotel stay in Kathmandu.  So, during the online meeting, please share your preferences, budget, and the standard of the hotel you would like to stay at in Kathmandu. We will arrange it for you accordingly.

Your Trek, Our Family

Shreejan Simkhada doesn't just run a trekking company — he comes from three generations of Himalayan expertise. His grandfather arranged expeditions in the 1960s. His father served at the Nepal Tourism Board. Shreejan personally designs every itinerary and hand-picks the guide for your group.

Your guide will be one of our Nepal government well-trained professionals — qualified mountaineering experts, all with years of Himalayan experience. Shreejan briefs every guide personally before your tour begins.

Need anything? WhatsApp Shreejan directly: +977 9810351300.

Why Travellers Trust Us

Personal attention from a family company. Shreejan and Sam founded The Everest Holiday in 2016 to give travellers the kind of warm, personal experience that big agencies cannot. When you book with us, you are not a number in a spreadsheet. You are a guest in our family.

Government registered (147653/072/073), TAAN Member #1586. Every guide is certified, every vehicle is insured, every hotel is personally vetted. We respond within 30 minutes during Nepal business hours.

320+ five-star reviews. TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice 2024. Our guests trust us — and come back year after year.

Difficulty: Easy (1/5)

A relaxed cultural tour with no trekking required. The itinerary involves gentle sightseeing, short walks around heritage sites, and comfortable vehicle transfers between Kathmandu and Pokhara. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels — from children to grandparents. The highest point is Sarangkot viewpoint (1,592 m), reached by a short drive, not a hike.

Your Tour Funds Children's Education

A portion of every booking supports the Nagarjun Learning Center, founded by our family in 2019. Today, 70 children receive free education and hot meals daily at our flagship centre in Saldum Village, Dhading District. We have also provided free medical care to 600+ people and reached 275+ women through support programmes. The centre is verified and listed on the UN Partner Portal.

When you travel with us, your holiday leaves Nepal better than you found it. That is not marketing. That is a promise our family has kept since 2019.

Solo Travellers Welcome

Most of our travellers join solo — you will be part of a small group of like-minded adventurers from around the world. Our groups are kept small (2-20 people) so you get a personal experience, not a conveyor belt.

You also have the option to book the tour privately for yourself. If you choose to make it a public group, we will list your dates as fixed departures on our website so other solo travellers can join you.

Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing—Explore the spiritual and architectural marvels of the old Kathmandu Valley.
Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara - A beautiful journey through river gorges and old-fashioned villages will take you to the lakeside beauty of Pokhara.
Day 04: Pokhara sightseeing—Explore Pokhara's natural and cultural treasures, from calm lakes to strong waterfalls and quiet pagodas.
Day 05: Morning drive to Sarangkot for sightseeing, and drive back to Kathmandu - Return to the capital after witnessing a spectacular sunrise over the Himalayas.
Day 06: Kathmandu and Bhaktapur Sightseeing—Explore more of the valley's UNESCO treasures, deepening your cultural connection.
Day 07: Final Departure—Bid farewell to Nepal, carrying with you memories of its incredible beauty and warmth.
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Availability

Book your own private small group trip
No. of travellers
Price per person
2 - 4 pax
US$450
5 - 8 pax
US$399
9 - 12 pax
US$354
13 - 20 pax
US$309

Discounts are determined exclusively by the size of your group. We do not add additional members to your group.

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Secure Payment by Himalayan Bank.
Cost Includes

Transportation

  • Airport Pick-up and drop-off from Tribhuvan International Airport to the hotel of your choice. 
  • Transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara and back to Kathmandu by local transportation.

Accommodation and food

  • Accommodation in Kathmandu at a tourist hotel with breakfast (BB basis).
  • Accommodation in Pokhara at a tourist hotel with breakfast (BB basis).

Guide 

  • An English-speaking guide is provided.

Permits and Expenses

  • All entrance fees and permits required to enter different sites and during the jungle safari are included in this tour. 
  • All government taxes and official expenses.

Complimentary

  • The company's T-shirt and cap before the tour.
  • At the end of your trip, you'll have a farewell meal at a restaurant in the area. At the farewell dinner after the Kathmandu-Pokhara Tour (7 Days), we will give you a certificate of achievement for successful completion of the tour.

Benefits

  • Free excess luggage storage at The Everest Holiday store for the duration of the tour.
  • We will arrange a SIM Card for every individual tourist upon arrival in Kathmandu and teach them how to get budget internet packages and top up their services.
Cost Excludes

International Flight

  •  International flight cost.

Nepali Visa

  • At Tribhuvan International Airport, you can pay the following fees upon arrival: $30 for a 15-day visa, $50 for a 30-day visa, and $120 for a 90-day visa. Alternatively, you can apply for and receive a Nepal visa from the Nepalese embassy or consulate in your country.

(Note: Anyone having a visa before arrival has an express exit through the immigration line. To obtain a visa upon arrival at TIA Kathmandu, you must have the necessary funds in US dollars.)

Accommodation

  • Accommodation in Kathmandu before and after the tour is included in this package. So, please let us know your preferences, budget, and standard of the hotel you would like to stay in Kathmandu during the online meeting. So we can arrange it for you accordingly.

Guide

  • Tip for guides. (Recommended)

Other expenses

  • All non-alcoholic drinks, like bottled water, hot water, soft drinks, juice, tea, and coffee, and alcoholic drinks, are not included etc. 
  • Additional costs are due to delays caused by circumstances out of our control, like landslides, unfavourable weather, itinerary modification due to safety concerns, illness, changes in government policies, strikes, etc.

Essential Information

Customise your tour

The itinerary above is a suggested schedule, and we are happy to adjust it to your interests. If you would like to spend an extra afternoon in Bhaktapur, add a sunrise excursion to Nagarkot, or rearrange the order of days, simply let us know. You can reach us by phone, Viber, or WhatsApp at +977 9810351300, or by email at info@theeverestholiday.com.

Accommodation

Your hotel standard depends on your chosen package: tourist-class hotels for Budget, three-star hotels for Standard, and luxury hotels for the Premium tier. All rooms include private bathrooms and hot water. In Pokhara, many of our partner hotels sit along the lakeside, offering mountain views directly from your room. Kathmandu hotels are centrally located for easy access to the heritage sites.

Food

A trip through Kathmandu and Pokhara is a feast for the senses. In Kathmandu, you will find steaming bowls of momo, hearty dal bhat, and sweet jalebi in the old markets. In Pokhara's lakeside setting, you can enjoy fresh Nepali cuisine with the Annapurna range reflected in the lake beside you. From busy market snacks to calm mountain-view meals, the flavours are as memorable as the sights. Budget travellers receive breakfast only; Standard and Luxury packages include all meals.

Travel Essentials

Visa and passport

All visitors except Indian nationals require a visa to enter Nepal. Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport. You will need a passport-sized photograph, the visa fee (USD 50 for a 30-day stay), and a passport valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. Visit the Department of Immigration website at immigration.gov.np for the latest requirements. Citizens of SAARC nations and China may qualify for free or simplified visa arrangements, though specific conditions apply.

Changing money

Nepal's official currency is the Nepali Rupee (NPR), with an approximate exchange rate of 1 USD to 130 NPR. Banks and licensed money exchanges in Kathmandu will convert most major currencies. We recommend licensed exchange counters rather than banks to avoid higher fees. ATMs in Kathmandu and Pokhara dispense up to NPR 35,000 per transaction with a fee of approximately NPR 500. Please note that only Indian Rupee notes of 100 and 2,000 denomination are accepted in Nepal. Bring fresh, clean foreign banknotes, as damaged or faded notes will not be accepted. Exchange your foreign currency in Kathmandu, as smaller towns may not offer this service. We estimate you will need between USD 20-25 per day for personal spending.

Safety

The Everest Holiday takes your safety seriously. Our guides are government-licensed, experienced, and trained in first aid. You will be accompanied throughout all sightseeing activities, and our team is available around the clock should you need anything during the tour.

Facilities and Essentials

Water

Bottled water is widely available throughout the tour route. We recommend carrying a reusable water bottle and refilling it at hotels and restaurants. Avoid drinking untreated tap water. Your guide will ensure safe drinking water is accessible at every stop.

Communication

Mobile coverage is generally good throughout this tour route. We will provide you with a SIM card in Kathmandu and teach you how to get data and recharge. Wi-Fi is available at most hotels and restaurants along the way. Your guide carries a mobile phone at all times for coordination and emergencies.

Luggage

Your luggage will be transported by vehicle throughout the tour, so there are no weight restrictions. You will only need a small daypack for items you want during sightseeing stops. Extra baggage can be stored for free at your hotel in Kathmandu.

Travel Essentials

Travel Essentials

Bring copies of your passport, visa, insurance policy, and emergency contact details. Keep digital copies on your phone as well. Your guide will brief you on everything before departure.

Travel Insurance

We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses, trip cancellation, and personal belongings. For high-altitude activities, your policy must cover emergency helicopter evacuation. We ask our clients to provide insurance details before departure.

Currency Exchange

The Nepali Rupee (NPR) is the local currency. ATMs are available in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and major towns. Credit cards are accepted at larger hotels and restaurants but not at smaller shops or on remote trails.

We recommend carrying cash in NPR for daily expenses. USD, GBP, EUR, and AUD can be exchanged at banks and money changers in Kathmandu.

Extra Expense

While the package covers most costs, you should budget for personal expenses such as hot showers (NPR 200-500), device charging (NPR 200-500), drinks, snacks, and souvenirs.

At higher altitudes, prices increase. We recommend carrying NPR 20,000-30,000 in cash for extras along the trail. Tips for your guide and porters are also at your discretion.

TEH Family

The Everest Holiday is more than a trekking company — it is a family. Founded in 2016 by Shreejan Simkhada and Shamjhana Basukala, the company carries forward three generations of Himalayan expertise.

Shreejan’s grandfather, Hari Lal Simkhada, arranged logistics and supported Himalayan expeditions in the 1960s and 1970s. His father, Ganesh Prasad Simkhada, has held senior positions in Nepal’s tourism and mountaineering institutions.

When you trek with us, you are joining this family tradition.

Booking

To confirm your booking, we require a 10% advance payment. Payment is processed securely through Himalayan Bank Limited’s online portal on our website. We also accept bank transfer via Wise. The remaining balance is due at least 60 days before your departure date.

Trip Conclusion

At the end of your trip, we host a farewell dinner at a local restaurant in Kathmandu. It is a relaxed evening to share stories and give us your feedback. On your departure day, we transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport in good time for your flight.

Tour conclusion

Farewell dinner

At the end of the tour, we host a farewell dinner in Kathmandu. This is a wonderful opportunity to share stories, give us your feedback, and receive your certificate of completion. It is always one of the highlights of the week.

Departure

To arrange your airport transfer, please share your hotel name, room number, and flight departure details. We will collect you from your hotel and drive you to Tribhuvan International Airport in good time for your flight. We hope you have had an unforgettable week, and we look forward to welcoming you back to Nepal for another adventure.

Tipping

Tipping is a common and appreciated practice in Nepal. We recommend a group tip for your guide at the end of the tour. The amount is entirely at your discretion and may depend on the quality of service, trip length, your budget, and the overall cost of the tour.

FAQs

Q1. What is the best part of this 7-day trip? 
This is Nepal's "Golden Triangle" trip, which is meant to provide you with a lot of different experiences in a short amount of time. Some of the best parts are: Kathmandu: The capital valley has old temples, palaces, and a lively culture. Pokhara: Beautiful vistas of the Annapurna range, quiet lakes, and a calm environment. Chitwan: Go on a jungle safari in Chitwan National Park to view rhinos, elephants, crocodiles, and, if you're lucky, the Royal Bengal Tiger.

Q2. How fast is this 7-day tour?
The speed is quick. You will be going to three different areas that are far apart from each other (via plane or tourist bus). It's a full schedule that will let you see the finest of each place quickly. There is less "free time" than there would be on a separate excursion or stay.

Q3. Is this trip good for families with kids or older people?
Yes, but with thought. There is no hard hiking to do. But the quick pace, long bus rides, and chance of heat in Chitwan may be hard on people. For convenience and to save time, it's best to take domestic flights between cities (Kathmandu-Pokhara and Pokhara-Chitwan).

Q4. When is the ideal time to go on this tour?
The finest times of year are

  • Autumn (October to November): The weather in Pokhara is perfect, with bright skies, nice temperatures, and great views of the mountains. This is the busiest time of year.
  • Spring (March to April): The weather is warm, and the rhododendrons blossom beautifully in the hills. The views are wonderful, but not necessarily as clear as they are in the fall.
  • Winter (December to February): The days are nice, but the mornings and nights in Kathmandu and Pokhara may be cold. The views of the mountains are still wonderful. During the day, Chitwan is really nice.
  • Monsoon (June to September): Not a good time. Heavy rain can make it hard to fly, drive, or see anything outside. You can't always see the mountains in Pokhara.

Q1. How will we get from one city to another? 
Most tour packages include a mix of 

  • By tourist bus: This is the most usual and cheapest way to go by road. Buses are pleasant and have air conditioning, although the trips are long (6–7 hours from Kathmandu to Pokhara).
  • By Domestic Flight: The best way to improve a 8-day tour. Flights between Kathmandu and Pokhara (25 minutes) and between Pokhara and Chitwan (or to and from Bharatpur) save a lot of time and give amazing views of the Himalayas. This costs more.

Q2. What kind of place to stay can we expect?
You will usually stay in hotels with three stars and share a room with another person. There are different places to stay in each city:

  • Kathmandu: City hotels, usually in the Thamel neighborhood, are easy to access for shopping and eating.
  • Pokhara: Hotels by the lake with great views and a calm atmosphere.
  • Chitwan: Jungle lodges or resorts, which are an experience in themselves, are generally on the edges of the national park.

Q3. What does a typical tour package include?
A normal all-inclusive plan usually includes:
All housing (7 nights).

  • All meals are included in the program, which usually includes breakfast in towns and full board in Chitwan.
  • All private car transportation for sightseeing and picking up and dropping off at the airport or bus station.
  • A certified, professional tour guide who speaks English.
  • All costs for getting into national parks and monuments.
  • In Chitwan, you may go on a jungle safari, ride in a jeep or a canoe, go on a nature walk, or see a traditional display.

Q4. What is usually NOT included?
Things that are usually not covered include:

  • Flights to other countries.
  • Fee for a Nepal visa.
  • Flights within the country (typically given as an extra).
  • Travel insurance.
  • In Kathmandu and Pokhara, lunch and supper are provided (just breakfast is normally included).
  • Personal costs include beverages, tips, washing, and so forth.

Q1. What should I bring on this trip?
You need to pack for three separate places:

  • Kathmandu: Casual clothes, comfy shoes for strolling, and a scarf or shawl to protect your shoulders in temples.
  • Pokhara: Wear clothes that are light and comfy. A light jacket for the nights. Shoes that are good for walking.
  • Chitwan: For the forest, wear light, breathable clothes in neutral colors like beige, green, and brown. A cap, shorts, a T-shirt, and heavy sunscreen. Don't wear bright colors when you're on safari.

Q2. Are there any specific shots I need?
There are no legal requirements for immunizations to enter; however, it is strongly advised that you get your normal vaccinations and consider getting shots for Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus. A course of anti-malarial medication is generally recommended for Chitwan. Please talk to your doctor well before you leave. 

Q3. What about cash and visas?

  • Visa: Most people from other countries may get a visa when they arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Bring a photo the size of a passport and cash (USD is preferable) for the charge.
  • Money: The Nepalese Rupee (NPR) is the money used in Nepal. You can use credit cards at bigger hotels and restaurants, but you should always have enough cash on hand for small purchases, tips, and meals that aren't included in your package. There are many ATMs in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

What is the Kathmandu and Pokhara Tour?
A 7-day cultural and scenic tour visiting Nepal's two most popular cities. Explore Kathmandu's UNESCO World Heritage Sites — Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath, and Durbar Square — then travel to Pokhara for lakeside relaxation, mountain views, and optional activities like paragliding and boating on Phewa Lake.

What are the highlights?
Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), scenic drive through the hills, Phewa Lake boating, Sarangkot sunrise, World Peace Pagoda, Davis Falls, and Gupteshwor Cave.

How long is this tour?
7 days including transfers. Comfortable pace with no rushing.

Do I need to be fit for this tour?
No special fitness required. This is a sightseeing tour with comfortable vehicle transport between cities. Some walking is involved at cultural sites and viewpoints, but nothing strenuous.

Is this suitable for families and seniors?
Absolutely. This tour is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Children, seniors, and people with limited mobility can enjoy this tour comfortably.

Do I need any permits?
No trekking permits are needed. Entry fees for national parks, temples, and heritage sites are included in the package.

Is travel insurance mandatory?
We strongly recommend travel insurance covering medical expenses and trip cancellation. While this is not a high-risk activity, insurance provides peace of mind.

What visa do I need?
Most nationalities get a visa on arrival at Kathmandu airport. USD 50 for 30 days, payable in cash.

Will I have a guide?
Yes. An experienced English-speaking guide accompanies you throughout the tour, providing cultural and historical context at every stop. A dedicated driver and comfortable vehicle are also provided.

Where do I stay?
Comfortable hotels at each stop. All accommodation is pre-booked and confirmed before departure.

(Note:
Budget: clean hotels with private rooms and hot water.
Standard: 3-star hotels with better amenities.
Luxury: best available hotels at each location.)

When is the best time?
Autumn (October-November) for the clearest mountain views from Pokhara, and spring (March-May) for warm weather and rhododendron blooms.

Can I do this tour year-round?
Yes. This tour operates year-round. Summer (June-August) is monsoon season with rain, but tours still run. Winter (December-February) is cool and clear with excellent visibility.

What food is available?
A wide variety — Nepali, Indian, Chinese, and Western cuisine at restaurants and hotels. Vegetarian and dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice. Kathmandu and Pokhara have excellent restaurants.

Is water safe?
Only drink bottled or filtered water. Bottled water is widely available everywhere on the tour route.

What should I pack?
Comfortable clothing, walking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, camera, and a light rain jacket. No special gear needed. Pack layers for temperature changes between Kathmandu (warm) and higher-altitude stops (cooler).

How do I book?
10% deposit through Himalayan Bank Limited's secure online portal. Balance due 60 days before departure. We also accept bank transfer via Wise.

What is the cancellation policy?
60+ days: full refund minus USD 50. 30-60 days: 50% refund. Under 30 days: no refund but we will try to reschedule.

How do I travel between cities?
By private vehicle with an experienced driver. Roads between major cities are paved. The scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara takes about 6-7 hours via the Prithvi Highway with mountain views. Domestic flights can also be arranged for those preferring to save time.