Kathmandu, Bandipur, Pokhara, Chitwan tour - 8 Days

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Kathmandu, Bandipur, Pokhara, Chitwan tour
Quick Overview
Duration8 Days
Trip GradeEasy
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude1,400m / 4,593ft
Group Size2-20
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
ActivitiesTour
Best TimeFebruary, March ,April ,June, September, December

Our standard 7-day "Golden Triangle" trip is the best way to start your Nepali journey. This trip is perfectly timed to showcase the amazing variety of Nepal. It will take you from the old temples and busy markets of the city to the peaceful lakes and stunning Himalayan views of Pokhara and then to the wild, untamed jungles of Chitwan. In only one week, you may see the amazing mix of culture, landscape, and wildlife that makes Nepal a place you'll never forget.

Major highlight of the tour

  • Explore majestic UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu Valley: Swayambhunath Stupa (monkey temple), Kathmandu Darbar Square, Pashupatinath, and Boudhanath Stupa. 
  • Explore the hidden 18th-century trader town of Bandipur.
  • Take a boat ride on Phewa Lake and see the Annapurna range from the lake. 
  • Visit different caves and Devi's Falls.
  • Chitwan Jungle Adventure: Take an exhilarating jeep safari through Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to see rhinos, deer, monkeys, and, if you're lucky, the rare Bengal tiger.
  • The Tharu cultural dance with a local cultural practice.
  • Unique Wildlife Encounters: Take a traditional canoe ride, go to an elephant breeding site, and see a cultural performance by the Tharu people. 
  • Scenic Drives and Transfers: Tourist bus transfers are included; you may travel to sites comfortably and see how Nepal's landscapes change.
  • This journey is great for first-time travellers, families, and anybody who wants to see all of Nepal's culture, nature, and wildlife in one easy trip.

Overall Kathmandu, Bandipur, Pokhara, Chitwan tour—7 days 

Take a memorable 8-day trip to Nepal's most famous places. This is a terrific method to learn about the country's incredible diversity. This well-planned "Golden Triangle" journey is for travellers who want to see the real Nepal, from its ancient spiritual centre and stunning mountain views to its wild, untamed forests. In just over a week, you'll travel across a variety of landscapes, from busy cities to peaceful villages by the lake and lush subtropical plains. You'll get a full experience of the natural and cultural assets that make this Himalayan country so special.

The Kathmandu Valley is where your experience begins. Its religious sites are made of wood, stone, and spirituality intertwined into the Nepalese lifestyle. You will walk through the busy streets and see UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Kathmandu Durbar Square and old Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), the peaceful Boudhanath Stupa, and the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, feeling the spiritual energy that fills the air. From Kathmandu, we will take a beautiful journey to Bandipur, which is a quiet and amazing place to visit. Morning goes for the sunrise view above the horizon, where you can see the sunrise over the clouds. From there, a beautiful journey takes you to the beautiful city of Pokhara, which is next to a calm lake and surrounded by the stunning Annapurna mountain range. The pace slows down here, so you can enjoy the tranquil lakefront and the stunning Himalayan sunrises.

The trip takes a big swing as you go down from the Himalayan foothills to the subtropical forests of Chitwan. Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has many different plants and animals because of the change in the topography. Get ready for exciting animal experiences, such as vehicle safaris to find the rare one-horned rhinoceros and calm canoe rides down jungle rivers. Being a part of the local Tharu community adds to the experience. Their traditional dance and hospitality provide you with a fascinating look into a life closely tied to the jungle.

This trip is well built to give us with a full and gratifying experience without feeling rushed. It combines comfort and adventure in a way that works well. You can fully enjoy the beauty of Nepal now that all the logistics, lodgings, and skilled guides are taken care of. This all-in-one itinerary is the best choice for first-time travellers and anybody who wants to have a easy vacation that shows off the amazing cultural, natural, and untamed spirit of this amazing nation.

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 tour.

Online briefing

This is like our first coffee before the trip, but online! This online meeting is your opportunity to learn about everything that will happen on the trip. We'll talk about everything from what gear to bring to what each day on the route will be like and how it will feel, and we'll answer any questions you have. 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.

Note to Tourist 

Experience the Himalayas on your terms. We create personal, intimate tours for groups of two or more. Whether you select our Budget, Standard, or Luxury package, your adventure will be exclusively for you and your companions, for a comfortable and personal journey from start to finish.

Compare Our Three Packages

  Budget Standard Luxury
Price from USD 650 USD 1,000 USD 2,000
Meals Breakfast only (BB basis) All meals included (B/L/D) All meals + all drinks (except alcohol)
Room Tourist hotel 3-star hotel Luxury hotel
Porter — — —
Guide 1 guide, assistant at 8+ 1 guide per 6, assistant at 6+ 1 per group
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 expert guides, same safety, three comfort levels.

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 trek begins.

Need anything? WhatsApp Shreejan directly: +977 9810351300.

Why Travellers Trust Us

Family roots in Nepal's tourism since the 1960s. Our grandfather supported Himalayan expeditions decades before trekking was fashionable. Today, Shreejan and Sam carry that legacy forward — personally checking every hotel, every vehicle, and every guide on your route. We don't outsource. We don't cut corners. We answer the phone at midnight if you need us.

320+ verified reviews. TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice 2024. Our guests come back year after year, and many bring their families.

Transparent pricing with three tiers. Budget, Standard, and Luxury — you see exactly what's included and what isn't before you pay a single rupee. No hidden charges, no surprises at the end.

Solo Travellers Welcome

Most of our trekkers 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. Many of our solo travellers tell us the group becomes like a second family by day three.

You also have the option to book the trek 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.

Difficulty: Easy (1/5)

A comfortable cultural tour covering Nepal’s golden triangle of Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan. No trekking experience or special fitness required — the itinerary involves gentle sightseeing, short nature walks, and comfortable vehicle transfers between destinations. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Your Trek 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 trek with us, you are not just climbing mountains — you are building futures. Trek With a Purpose.

Trip Gallery

Bandipur 3
Bandipur 4
Bandipur 2
Bandipur
People 1
Asdasf 1
Rhinoooo 1
Mahadev 1
Elephant 1
Lake 1
Seti Kola 1
Pokhara 1

Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 02: sightseeing in Kathmandu
Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu 150 km, 5-7 hours to Bandipur.
Day 04: Sunrise view from Thani Mai Temple in Bandipur and drive to Pokhara, Sightseeing.
Day 05: Morning visit Sarankot and drive 159 km/miles for 5-6 hours to Chitwan, and evening participate in the Tharu cultural dance
Day 06: Jungle safari and sunset view from canoeing in the Rapti River.
Day 07: Drive back to Kathmandu
Day 08: Final Departure
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Interactive Route Map

Availability

Book your own private small group trip
No. of travellers
Price per person
2 - 4 pax
US$649
5 - 8 pax
US$599
9 - 12 pax
US$549
13 - 20 pax
US$499

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

Book Now
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Secure Payment by Himalayan Bank.
Cost Includes

Transportation

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off between Tribhuvan International Airport and your hotel.
  • Transportation from Kathmandu to Bandipur, Pokhara, and Chitwan and back to Kathmandu by local transport.

Accommodation and Food

  • Accommodation in Kathmandu at a tourist-standard hotel with breakfast and dinner.
  • Accommodation in Bandipur at a tourist-standard hotel with breakfast and dinner.
  • Accommodation in Pokhara at a tourist-standard hotel with breakfast (BB basis).
  • Accommodation in Chitwan at a tourist-standard hotel with breakfast (BB basis).

Guide

  • An English-speaking guide is provided throughout the tour.

Permits and Expenses

  • All entrance fees and permits required for sightseeing sites and the jungle safari are included.
  • All government taxes and official expenses.

Medical Assistance

  • First aid kit provided.
  • Emergency rescue coordination if required (funded by the traveller's own travel insurance).

Complimentary

  • The Everest Holiday branded T-shirt and cap before the tour.
  • A farewell dinner at a local restaurant in Kathmandu at the end of the tour, along with a certificate of completion.

Benefits

  • Free excess luggage storage at The Everest Holiday office for the duration of the tour.
  • A SIM card arranged for each traveller upon arrival in Kathmandu, with guidance on budget data packages and top-ups.
Cost Excludes

International Flight

  • International flight costs to and from Nepal.

Nepal Visa

  • Visa fees payable on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport: USD 30 for a 15-day visa, USD 50 for a 30-day visa, or USD 120 for a 90-day visa. You may also apply in advance through a Nepalese embassy or consulate in your home country.

(Note: Travellers holding a pre-arranged visa enjoy express passage through the immigration queue. Visa fees at TIA Kathmandu must be paid in US dollars.)

Accommodation

  • Accommodation in Kathmandu before and after the tour is included in this package. Please let us know your preferences, budget, and preferred hotel standard during our online meeting so we can arrange it accordingly.

Guide

  • Tips for your guide (recommended).

Other Expenses

  • All drinks, including bottled water, soft drinks, juice, tea, coffee, and alcoholic beverages.
  • Additional costs arising from delays beyond our control, such as landslides, adverse weather, itinerary changes for safety reasons, illness, government policy changes, or strikes.

Essential Information

Customise Your Tour

The itinerary above is a suggested framework — we're happy to adjust it to suit your interests. Want to add a jeep safari extension, white-water rafting on the Trishuli, or an extra night in Bandipur? Just let us know. Reach us by phone, Viber, or WhatsApp at +977-9810351300, or by email at info@theeverestholiday.com.

Food

Three meals a day are included in Kathmandu, Bandipur, Pokhara, and Chitwan. You'll find a good mix of local Nepali dishes, Asian favourites, and Western options at each stop. Meals are freshly prepared, flavourful, and hygienically cooked. Vegetarian and dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice.

Travel Essentials

Visa and Passport

All nationalities except Indian citizens require a visa to enter Nepal. Most travellers can obtain an on-arrival visa at Tribhuvan International Airport. You'll need a passport valid for at least six months, one passport-sized photo, and the visa fee in USD (USD 50 for 30 days). Visit immigration.gov.np for the latest requirements. Citizens of SAARC countries and China may be eligible for free or reduced-fee visas — specific conditions apply. A small number of nationalities are not eligible for on-arrival visas, so please check before you travel.

Changing Money

Nepal's currency is the Nepali Rupee (NPR). At the time of writing, 1 USD is approximately 130 NPR. We recommend exchanging money at licensed exchange counters in Kathmandu rather than banks, as they offer better rates with less paperwork. ATMs are widely available in Kathmandu and dispense up to NPR 35,000 per transaction (Rs 500 fee applies). Please note: only Indian Rupee notes of 100 and 2,000 denomination are accepted in Nepal, and banks will not accept old, torn, or faded foreign notes. Exchange your currency in Kathmandu, as this service may not be available in smaller towns. Budget approximately USD 20-25 per day for personal spending.

Security

Your safety is our highest priority. All our guides are government-licensed, experienced, and trained in first aid. You'll be accompanied by your guide throughout the tour, which adds an extra layer of security, local knowledge, and peace of mind at every stop.

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.

Accommodation

You will stay in comfortable hotels throughout this tour. All accommodation is pre-booked and confirmed before departure.

(Note:

Budget: Clean, well-maintained hotels with private rooms and hot water.

Standard: 3-star hotels with better amenities and locations.

Luxury: The best available hotels at each stop, with premium facilities and service.

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

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

Farewell Dinner

On your final evening in Kathmandu, we'll host a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. It's a relaxed occasion to share stories, swap photos, and give us your feedback. You'll also receive a certificate of completion to mark your journey through Nepal's cultural and natural highlights.

Departure

To arrange your airport transfer, please share your hotel name, room number, and flight departure details with your guide. We'll collect you from your hotel and take you to Tribhuvan International Airport in good time for your flight. We hope this trip stays with you long after you're home — and we'd love to welcome you back to Nepal again.

Tipping

Tipping is customary in Nepal and always appreciated. We recommend a group tip for your guide at the end of the tour. The amount is entirely at your discretion and may reflect the quality of service, the length of the trip, and your overall experience.

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.