Your 7-day Nepal tour begins in the capital city, Kathmandu, and concludes here as well. But you won’t be limited to just exploring the streets of this city of temples. With Altitude Himalaya’s support, you’ll gain experiences across some of the country’s most iconic regions.
To begin, we start with a full-day Kathmandu sightseeing tour that mainly covers the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You’ll get to explore the city's unique architecture and immerse yourself in local life, as these sites are also beloved by locals!
The next day, you’ll head to Chitwan, also known as the heart of the jungle. Here, you’ll indulge in jungle activities with your friends. And not to forget, meet the indigenous Tharu and Kumal communities!
After that, you’ll be off to Pokhara, the tourism capital of Nepal. This is the city where you’ll mostly encounter fellow travellers and trekkers heading toward various routes across the country. The sightseeing here alone will make you realize just how truly amazing Nepal is.
Once you’ve witnessed the Himalayas up close in Pokhara, you’ll return to Kathmandu, where another adventure awaits you. It’s an optional but highly recommended activitiy, the Everest Mountain Flight, an awe-inspiring flyover that leaves you mesmerized, soaring amidst the clouds.
Want to explore your 7-day Nepal tour in detail? Allow us to share some insights with you.
Discover the Highlights of Three Major Cities
During your Nepal tour, we’ll be covering three major tourist cities: Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan. Within Kathmandu, we’ve also included a short trip to Bhaktapur, which lies within the same valley.
The highlights include exploring the cultures and traditions of the Kathmandu Valley, experiencing the floral and faunal diversity of Chitwan, and admiring the natural beauty of Pokhara. These aren’t just the most accessible destinations in Nepal, they also offer a blend of comfort and luxury.
Kathmandu: The City of Temples
Your journey to Nepal begins the moment you land in the capital city, Kathmandu. Home to over 3,000 temples, it’s famously known as the ‘City of Temples’, a nickname that truly comes to life as you start exploring its vibrant streets.
The city offers a wealth of religious and historical landmarks, but we’ll be guiding you to the most sacred and iconic ones that are must-visit sites in Nepal. These include Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa, Boudhanath Stupa, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square.
Chitwan: The City of Wild Encounters
Chitwan is approximately 180 km from Kathmandu and serves as the perfect destination for a two or three-night stay. The major highlight here is the region’s diverse wildlife, including the rare chance of spotting the Royal Bengal Tiger.
From jeep safaris and canoeing to jungle walks and watching the sunset over the convergence of the Rapti and Narayani Rivers, we ensure that your experiences will be truly unforgettable. You’ll also get to immerse yourself culturally among the indigenous Tharu and Kumal communities in Chitwan.
Pokhara: The City of Lakes
Pokhara is about 200 km from Kathmandu and 160 km from Chitwan. Since you’ll be flying from Chitwan to Pokhara on this tour, let us inform you in advance that the flight duration is approximately 20 minutes.
You may already know Pokhara for its proximity to the Himalayan mountains, but one essential fact to note is that it’s also known as the City of Lakes. You’ll find three major ones here: Phewa Lake, Begnas Lake, and Rupa Lake.
While this 7-day Nepal trip includes only a visit to Phewa Lake, we can always arrange tours to the other lakes upon request. For now, the package includes some of Pokhara’s most popular tourist attractions, such as Devi’s Falls, Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, Pumdikot Shiva Statue, and the World Peace Pagoda.
Explore Sacred Sites and Historic Landmarks
No matter where you go in Nepal, you’re likely to be blessed with the presence of temples and monasteries. That’s because spirituality is deeply woven into every Nepali, going back centuries.
You certainly wouldn’t want to miss out on the most sacred temples when visiting Nepal. And you don’t even have to be a Hindu to understand the culture and traditions that make Nepal so unique, which our team at Altitude Himalaya proudly guarantees.
Here are the major Hindu and Buddhist sites, along with other historical landmarks, that you’ll get to visit during your stay in Nepal:
Royal Palace Complex of Kathmandu Durbar Square
Your Nepal excursion begins through the vibrant streets of Kathmandu, leading you to the historic Basantapur Kshetra. Here, you won’t just learn about the kings and their royal palaces from back in the day, but also find temples and monuments at nearly every step you take.
Reportedly, the Kathmandu Durbar Square area alone is home to more than 50 temples. And remember what we told you at the very beginning? Kathmandu is the City of Temples, and after wandering through this area, there’s no denying it!
Swayambhunath Stupa aka ‘The Monkey Temple’
Going back to the time when the Kathmandu Valley was still a lake called ‘Nagdaha’, the history of Swayambhunath Stupa originates from this very legend. It’s believed that Nepal’s oldest stupa emerged on its own (hence the name Swayambhu, meaning "self-existent") after the lake was drained and the valley was formed.
The story continues with a Bodhisattva named Manjushree, who is said to have cut through the surrounding hills of Kathmandu to allow the waters of Nagdaha to drain. The lice from his head are believed to have turned into monkeys. And to this day, monkeys are still found around the stupa, thus giving the name ‘Monkey Temple’.
It’s up to you to decide whether to believe this mythological tale. But one thing is certain: Swayambhunath Stupa remains a sacred pilgrimage site, not just for Buddhists, but also for Hindus!
Holy Hindu Site of Pashupatinath Temple
Another place where you’ll spot monkeys all around is the Pashupatinath Temple. But its popularity has nothing to do with these animals. What truly defines Pashupatinath is its identity as a sacred site dedicated to Lord Shiva.
There are countless festivals when Pashupatinath Temple comes alive with massive crowds, like Maha Shivaratri, Haritalika Teej, and many more. After visiting, you’ll witness the deep devotion people have toward Lord Mahadev and see how devotees from all over the globe come here to receive his blessings.
And if you’re already a Hindu reading this package, count yourself lucky! We’re here to arrange the best possible experience for you, guiding you through Pashupatinath Temple’s every nook and cranny.
Tibetan Pilgrimage Site of Boudhanath Stupa
If you ask the residents of Kathmandu about their favorite things to do in the city, we’re pretty sure most would mention joining a kora walk around Boudhanath Stupa.
Amidst the hustle and bustle of the city, this sacred site stands out as one of the most peaceful and spiritual places in Kathmandu. Even though there’s usually a crowd, the most surprising thing is how naturally you blend in with Buddhist pilgrims from all across the globe, walking in nothing but harmony.
Natural Marvels of Devi’s Falls and Gupteshwor Cave
Moving to Pokhara, your journey begins with mesmerizing views of Mt. Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna range. While you’ll be enjoying these scenic mountain vistas throughout your stay, we’ll also stop by two iconic locations that are not only naturally stunning but also carry a touch of tragic history.
We’re referring to a Swiss lady named Davis, who tragically fell into the massive Devi’s Falls, costing her life. Since then, protective barriers have been installed to ensure tourist safety and prevent such incidents.
And just opposite the waterfall, you’ll receive blessings at Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, one of the longest caves in Nepal, divided into two distinct sections. As you venture deeper, you’ll even witness a mesmerizing view of Devi’s Falls from within the cave itself.
Pokhara Viewpoint at Pumdikot Shiva Statue
Visiting Pokhara and not getting closer to the mountains would be a big miss. And for that reason, Altitude Himalaya has arranged a short drive to the newly built viewpoint in Pumdikot.
What’s fascinating about this spot is that it’s also considered sacred among Hindus, as it features a 108-feet-tall Shiva statue. He’s the very same Hindu deity whose presence you’ve been following throughout your journey from Kathmandu!
Peace and Serenity at World Peace Pagoda
While returning from Pumdikot, you’ll stop at one of the 80 Peace Pagodas in the world. Built in 1973, it has become a favorite spot for peace seekers and spiritual travelers alike.
You can indulge in yoga and meditation while soaking in the breathtaking views of Pokhara city and Phewa Lake from the World Peace Pagoda. Take your time to explore the pagoda as peacefully as you can. Prayers and chants are often held here, adding to the serene ambiance.
Surreal Sunrise From Sarangkot
On your final day in Pokhara, we’ll take you on an early morning drive to Sarangkot Hill Station. The way the sunlight reflects off Mt. Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna range creates one of the most stunning golden hours in all of Nepal.
Although it’s a short trip, many of our guests have shared that it’s been one of their favorite parts of their Nepal journey. So definitely don’t hesitate to wake up early and experience this breathtaking moment up close.
Ancient Newari City of Bhaktapur Durbar Square
After returning to the Kathmandu Valley, there’s one more trip to go! We’ll take you to another Durbar Square, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site: the Bhaktapur Durbar Square.
Looking back at its history, Bhaktapur, also known as Bhadgaon, was once a separate kingdom, just like Kathmandu and Patan. But after the unification campaign led by the father of Nepal, Prithvi Narayan Shah, it was merged into modern Nepal.
During that era, the region was ruled by the Malla kings, so visiting Bhaktapur Durbar Square is like traveling back in time. You’ll get to admire the beautiful architecture, ancient temples, museums, and immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Newari people.
Exciting Adventures Along the Way
The most exciting part of this 7-day Nepal journey is the array of adventures you’ll immerse yourself in. From thrilling jungle activities to a scenic mountain flight, Altitude Himalaya has designed these experiences not just to pump your adrenaline, but also to boost your physical and mental well-being.
Highlights include glimpses of endangered species such as the Royal Bengal Tiger, one-horned rhinoceros, Gharial, marsh crocodiles, and more. Plus, you’ll witness the breathtaking views of Mt. Everest and the surrounding Himalayas.
Let’s dive into these adventures in a little more depth:
Jungle Jeep Safari Through Chitwan’s Wilderness
Chitwan National Park spans over 952.63 sq. km, and the best way to experience its natural beauty is through a jeep safari. You’ll be accompanied by a professional naturalist who will guide you to the areas where wildlife is most active.
The jungle trip lasts about 3 to 4 hours and even includes an option for a packed breakfast. This offers you a unique opportunity to enjoy your meal right in the middle of Chitwan’s sal forests, while keeping an eye out for glimpses of the diverse wildlife.
Jungle Walk For Birdwatching
For a complete immersion in the Chitwan jungle, the best activity is to go for a forest walk. Venture deep into the forests accompanied by a naturalist and a professional guide, who will help you learn more about the rich flora and fauna of the region.
The forest walk is also ideal for birdwatching, an experience you definitely don’t want to miss. You’ll have the chance to observe both the local bird species as well as those that have migrated here from colder regions.
And not to forget, venturing deep into the jungle offers the highest chances to spot rare species like the wildcats. However, safety is paramount, so be sure to carefully follow all instructions provided by your guides.
Canoe Ride to Spot Aquatic Wildlife
Another exciting adventure included in this 7-day Nepal trip is a canoe ride along the Rapti River. In the evening, the landscape becomes even more breathtaking, with Gharial and marsh crocodiles often seen close by.
After the ride, we offer a wonderful sundowner retreat, complete with your favorite drinks and light snacks. What better way to end the day than with this unforgettable experience?
Optional Scenic Flight Over Mt. Everest
Your final day adventure is the most anticipated of them all: the mountain flight from Kathmandu. We’ll take you on a scenic flight over the Himalayas, where Mt. Everest comes into clear view.
Seeing the mountains up close from above truly makes your journey to Nepal worthwhile. That’s why we strongly recommend not missing this surreal opportunity, even though it’s an optional addition to your already wonderful tour.
Cultural Experiences That Bring Your Journey to Life
Exploring the beauty of Nepal is one thing, but many travelers miss out on truly immersing themselves in its diverse cultures. If you travel with Altitude Himalaya, we won’t let that happen!
From meeting people from various ethnic groups to visiting villages where you can learn about the lifestyles of Nepal’s indigenous communities, we’ve got you covered in this 7-day Nepal tour:
Tharu Village Tour to Explore Local Traditions
When in Sauraha, Chitwan, your first activity will be a visit to the Tharu and Kumal communities in a nearby village. This will be a short, fully guided tour.
You won’t just meet the Tharu villagers, you’ll also have the opportunity to enter one of their homes and learn how they make their living. Nearby, there’s a cultural museum that offers an in-depth look into the Tharu community.
Tharu Cultural Program Featuring Dance and Heritage
Upon returning from Tharu village tour, you’ll be joined by more members of the Tharu community for a grand cultural show. You’ll get to witness traditional dances, including the Sakhiya Dance and Lathi Nach (translated as ‘stick dance’).
The fascinating part is that you can even join the Tharu people to learn some moves yourself. It’s truly an experience worth living for!
Farewell Dinner with Nepali Cultural Performances
On your final day of the 7-day Nepal tour, Altitude Himalaya organizes a Nepali-style cultural dinner, where you’ll also get to meet some of our team members.
Together, like one big family, we’ll attend a cultural show featuring dances from people of diverse backgrounds. This gives you the opportunity to learn even more about the customs and traditions of the Nepalese community, beyond what the seven days could offer.
10 Km