Kathmandu Pokhara tour

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

Arrive in Kathmandu and one of our representatives will receive you and then transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu. The rest of the time is free to explore the city where your hotel is located which is usually at Thamel – the popular tourist hub in Kathmandu where every needs and facilities for the tourist are located like hotels, pubs, restaurants, departmental stores, trek gear shops etc. Or you can simply rest at your hotel if you are jet lagged and get ready for an amazing Himalayan trek.

Overnight at Hotel in Kathmandu

Day 2: In Kathmandu - Sightseeing

After breakfast, you have a full day to explore the city and its cultural treasures. Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel then your city guide shall meet you at the hotel’s lobby to start up the tour. Head to Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple. Located atop a hill, Swayambhunath offers panoramic views of the city and is considered one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in Nepal. Explore the stupa complex, adorned with prayer flags, Buddhist shrines, and intricate carvings. Observe the monkeys that inhabit the area, giving the temple its unique nickname.

Then proceed to Patan Durbar Square, located in the city of Lalitpur, just south of Kathmandu. This ancient square is known for its well-preserved Newari architecture, palaces, temples, and courtyards. Explore the Krishna Mandir, the Patan Museum, and the various temples and sculptures within the square. 

Next, visit Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu temples in Nepal and an important pilgrimage site for devotees of Lord Shiva. Observe the intricate architecture, visit the main temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, and witness the rituals and cremation ceremonies along the banks of the Bagmati River.

Afterward, proceed to Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest stupas in the world and another UNESCO World Heritage Site. This sacred Buddhist site is an important pilgrimage destination and a center for Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. Walk around the stupa, spin the prayer wheels, and observe the faithful circumambulating the stupa while reciting prayers.  As the day comes to an end, enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant in the Boudhnath area and drive back to your hotel.

In the evening you can take a stroll around Thamel on your own, a bustling neighborhood known for its shops, restaurants, and nightlife. Browse through local handicraft stores, grab a coffee or a drink, or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the city.

Overnight at Hotel in Kathmandu (Breakfast)

Day 3: Drive to Pokhara from Kathmandu

Early in the morning drive to Pokhara from Kathmandu by a tourist bus along the Prithvi Highway, which connects Kathmandu and Pokhara. The highway offers scenic views of the countryside, terraced fields, and hills. Enjoy the changing landscapes as you venture further away from Kathmandu. As you approach the city, you’ll start catching glimpses of the stunning Himalayas and the surrounding hills. 

You will arrive in Pokhara in the afternoon or early evening depending on the traffic condition on the highway. Check in at your hotel and take some time to relax and freshen up. After checking the hotel and once you’ve settled in, you can explore the lakeside area of Pokhara, which offers a lively atmosphere with numerous restaurants, cafes, and shops. Alternatively, you can also drive by a private vehicle or fly to Pokhara (25 minutes) 

Overnight Hotel in Pokhara (Breakfast)

Day 4: In Pokhara - Sarangkot Sunrise tour & Pokhara City Sightseeing

On day 4 of your Kathmandu Pokhara Chitwan tour, you have the opportunity to witness a beautiful sunrise from Sarangkot and explore the city of Pokhara. Wake up early in the morning, around 4:30 or 5:00 a.m., to prepare for the Sarangkot sunrise tour- a hill station located about 11 kilometers (7 miles) from Pokhara. Reach Sarangkot before sunrise to secure a good spot at the viewpoint. Sarangkot offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna mountain range, including Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Dhaulagiri, and other peaks. Witness the sunrise as the first rays of light illuminate the majestic mountains, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. 

After the sunrise experience, return to Pokhara and have breakfast at your hotel. Then start your city sightseeing tour which covers places like Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, Seti River Gorge, International Mountain Museum, World Peace Pagoda, Shiva Temple, Bindabasini Temple etc. Then return to the hotel.

Overnight at Hotel in Pokhara (Breakfast)

Day 5: Drive to Kathmandu from Pokhara

After breakfast, you will be driving from Pokhara to Kathmandu. The distance between the two cities is approximately 204 kilometers (127 miles), and the drive usually takes around 6 to 7 hours, depending on the traffic conditions on the highway. Once you reach Kathmandu, you’ll enter the bustling city atmosphere. 

Upon reaching Kathmandu, check in at your hotel and take some time to relax and freshen up. If you have some energy left, you can explore the city, visit local markets, or indulge in some shopping for souvenirs and handicrafts.

In the evening, you can enjoy a stroll around the vibrant streets of Thamel, a popular tourist area in Kathmandu. Explore the shops, art galleries, and restaurants, or simply relax at a rooftop cafe while enjoying views of the bustling city. 

Overnight at Hotel in Kathmandu (Breakfast).

Day 6: Final Departure

The trip concludes and our office representatives will take you to the international airport in Kathmandu to catch your onward flight to your next destination or fly back home. You need to be at least 3 hours before your flight time at the airport.

Thank you for visiting Nepal and we hope your Himalayan Holiday has come true. Have a safe flight back home! 

Equipment Check-list

 

Packing for tour in Nepal will require some careful planning, as you'll be traveling through various landscapes and experiencing different activities. Here's a comprehensive packing list to help you prepare:

Clothing:

• Lightweight, moisture-wicking and breathable clothing during summer
• Warm jackets or sweater during winter
• Long-sleeve shirts and pants for sun protection and to cover up during temple visits
• Insulating layers for cooler evenings
• Rain jacket or poncho (especially during the monsoon season)
• Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
• Flip-flops or sandals for casual wear
• Swimsuit (if you plan to use the hotel pools)
• Hat or cap for sun protection
• Socks and underwear

Travel Essentials:

• Passport, visa, and photocopies
• Travel insurance documents
• Money belt or hidden pouch for valuables
• Power adapter and voltage converter (Nepal uses the Type C and Type D electrical plugs)

Health and Personal Items:

• Prescription medications and necessary medical supplies
• First-aid kit with essentials like bandaids, antiseptic, pain relievers, and diarrhea medication
• Sunscreen and lip balm with high SPF
• Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, etc.)
• Hand sanitizer
• Towel and washcloth

Outdoor Gear:

• Daypack or backpackfor day trips
• Water bottle with a purification system or purification tablets
• Flashlight or headlamp
• Multi-tool or pocket knife
• Ziplock bags (for organizing and protecting items)

Miscellaneous:

• Mobile phone and charger
• Camera, extra batteries, and memory cards
• Books or travel guides
• Notebooks and pens
• Travel pillow and earplugs (for more comfortable rest during long bus rides)

Also, consider the season and specific activities you'll be doing in each location, as weather conditions can vary.

 

1. What is the Kathmandu-Pokhara Tour?

The Kathmandu-Pokhara Tour is a popular travel package that combines two of Nepal’s most iconic and culturally rich cities – Kathmandu and Pokhara. It offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and natural beauty of these two beautiful cities.

2. How long does the Kathmandu-Pokhara Tour take?

The duration of the Kathmandu-Pokhara Tour is 5 nights and 6 days.

3. What are the major highlights of the Kathmandu-Pokhara Tour?

The major highlights of the Kathmandu-Pokhara Tour include exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu like Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, Pashupatinath, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. In Pokhara, the tour highlights include boating on Phewa Lake, visiting the World Peace Pagoda, exploring the International Mountain Museum, and enjoying stunning views of the Annapurna mountain range.

4. How do I travel between Kathmandu and Pokhara during the tour?

The most common and convenient way to travel between Kathmandu and Pokhara is by domestic flight or tourist bus. Flights take around 25-30 minutes, while the bus journey takes around 6-7 hours, depending on road conditions.

5. Is the Kathmandu-Pokhara Tour suitable for families and groups?

Yes, the Kathmandu-Pokhara Tour is suitable for families, groups, and individual travelers of all ages. It offers a mix of cultural experiences, natural beauty, and recreational activities, making it enjoyable for everyone.

6. What is the best time to go on the Kathmandu-Pokhara Tour?

The best time for the Kathmandu-Pokhara Tour is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer pleasant weather, clear skies, and excellent visibility, making sightseeing and outdoor activities more enjoyable.

7. Can I extend the tour to include other destinations or activities?

Absolutely! If you have more time and want to explore other regions of Nepal or engage in specific activities like trekking in the Annapurna region, rafting, or wildlife safaris, you can extend the tour to include these experiences as well.

Accommodation
During tour, we opt you accommodate in 3 star or 5 star hotels like Hotel Royal Singhi (3star), Hotel Manaslu (3 star), Radisson (5 star), Yak & Yeti (5 star) or similar in Kathmandu City. In Pokhara, we will provide the best available hotels.

 

Meals
While in Nepal, you'll find a diverse selection of cuisine ranging from continental to Chinese, Indian, and more. Tourist hubs like Thamel in Kathmandu or Lakeside in Pokhara host a plethora of restaurants offering dishes from around the world. In addition to international fare, don't miss out on the opportunity to savor traditional Nepali dishes such as Dal Bhat (rice and lentils served with vegetables or meat), Momos (dumplings), Thukpa (noodle soup), Sel Roti (rice-based doughnut), and Samosas. These Nepali delicacies offer a delightful taste of the local culinary culture. Whether you're craving familiar flavors or eager to explore new tastes, Nepal's dining scene has something for everyone.

Best Months
Though the tour can be done round the year, the best months is January-May & September-December which are the pick tourist season in Nepal.

 

Our  Guides
The Guides play a very active role at the time of trip. Marron Treks has experienced and helpful  guides who make your trip enjoyable as well as successful. Our Guides will help you to know the city, provide information and will let you know about the history  about all the sites you visit.

 

Travel Insurance
Before starting your journey with MarronTreks it is advised that you arrange your travel insurance before leaving your homeland. It should cover medical expenses if injured or theft/loss of your belongings. That would make your trip safe and hassle free.

 

Safety
Nepal is a safe place and has always attracted lots of visitors from all over the world. You are given security from the Tourist-Police of Nepal and at any time they are present for immediate help.

The provided trip plan by Marron Treks is customizable but subject to unpredictable factors like weather, political unrest, and flight disruptions in Nepal. Delays or changes might occur due to various reasons, and Marron Treks will prioritize client safety. However, they are not liable for resulting consequences, striving to maintain the essence of the original trip plan. 

Cost Inclusion

• Airport pick-up and drop services.
• Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu by tourist bus (Option: Private vehicle or flight)
• Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu & Pokhara with breakfast
• All applicable tourist entrance, monumental fees.
• Salary to an experienced city guide throughout sightseeing period.
• Farewell dinner with live Nepalese cultural program.
• All government and local taxes.

Cost Exclusion

• International airfare
• Personal insurance for travel to Nepal.
• Nepal entry visa fee – Visa can be obtained upon your arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu.
• Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu or Pokhara (except Chitwan)
• Bar bills, alcoholic drinks & beverages.
• Other expenses of personal nature (phone calls, laundry etc.)
• Tips to guide or drivers