Kathmandu, Nagarkot, Chitwan, Pokhara & Ghandruk (12 Days) A Soulful Journey from Ancient Temples to Himalayan Villages
All departures are guaranteed with a minimum of 4 to 14 participants. 👉 “One Destination. One Small Group. One True Adventure.”
🗓️ 12 Days – Arrival to Departure
👥 Small Group | 4–14 Participants
🚩 Guaranteed Departure
🎒 Guided by Expert Tour Leader or Hire Prasan
This 12-day Nepal Highlights Tour takes you through the country’s most iconic destinations—from the sacred streets of Kathmandu and sunrise views over the Himalayas in Nagarkot, to wildlife safaris in Chitwan, the peaceful charm of Pokhara’s lakeside, and a gentle trek to the mountain village of Ghandruk.
Perfect for travelers who want a little bit of everything—culture, nature, wellness, wildlife, and light trekking—without the pressure of high altitudes or long hiking days. You’ll explore UNESCO World Heritage sites, glide down jungle rivers by canoe, go on a jeep safari, watch Himalayan sunsets, and walk scenic trails through authentic Gurung villages.
Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as a couple, this Nepal Highlights Tour is a thoughtfully paced adventure that connects you deeply—with the land, the people, and yourself.
Why Nepal Highlights Tour With Prasan?
This isn’t just a sightseeing trip—it’s a guided experience from someone who’s walked these trails, shared tea with the locals, watched sunrise from the same viewpoints, and felt the soul of each destination.
As your certified local tour, trek, and wellness guide with over 10 years of experience, I personally lead or curate every step of this Nepal Highlights Tour. I’m here not just to show you places, but to help you feel them.
✅ Experienced, government-licensed guide who truly knows Nepal
✅ Mindfully designed itinerary with wellness, nature, and culture in balance
✅ Small group focus for a more personal, connected journey
✅ Portion of profits supports local communities and ethical travel practices
✅ Trek with support—no heavy backpacks, just light walking and joyful moments
✅ Real insight into Nepalese culture, from ancient temples to remote villages
✅ Wellness touch: optional yoga, meditation, and mindful reflection sessions
Traveling with me means having someone who cares—about your safety, your experience, and your connection to this beautiful country.
Let’s make your journey through Nepal not just memorable, but meaningful.
Nepal Highlights Tour – Top 10 Highlights
- 🛕 Discover Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, and Patan Durbar Square
- 🌄 Watch the sunrise over the Himalayas from Nagarkot—a breathtaking morning you’ll never forget
- 🏯 Explore the ancient city of Bhaktapur, rich in art, culture, and medieval architecture
- 🐘 Go on a jeep safari in Chitwan National Park—spot rhinos, crocodiles, deer, and various birdlife
- 🚣♂️ Canoe along the Rapti River and enjoy a peaceful jungle walk with a local naturalist
- 💃 Experience Tharu culture through traditional dance and a guided village tour
- 🚤 Enjoy Pokhara’s lakeside beauty, including a boat ride on Phewa Lake and visits to the Peace Pagoda and Davis Falls
- 🥾 Trek to the scenic Gurung village of Ghandruk, with stunning views of Annapurna South and Machapuchare
- 🏡 Stay in locally run mountain lodges and connect with the warmth of village hospitality
- 👣 Travel with a certified, experienced Nepali guide for an authentic, insightful, journey
🗺️ Nepal Highlights Tour – 12-Day Outline Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu (1,400m) – Airport pickup and welcome dinner
- Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing (1,400m) – Visit Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath & Patan Durbar Square
- Day 3: Kathmandu to Nagarkot via Bhaktapur (2,000m) – 1 hr Bhaktapur tour / 1.5 hr drive
- Day 4: Nagarkot to Chitwan (415m) – Sunrise view / 6–7 hrs drive
- Day 5: Chitwan Jungle Safari (415m) – Jeep safari, canoe ride, jungle walk, Tharu cultural show
- Day 6: Drive to Pokhara (820m) – 5–6 hrs drive
- Day 7: Pokhara Sightseeing (820m) – Sarangkot sunrise, Peace Pagoda, Davis Falls, Phewa Lake
- Day 8: Drive to Kimche, Trek to Ghandruk (1,940m) – 2 hrs drive / 3–4 hrs trek
- Day 9: Trek to Kimche, Drive to Pokhara (820m) – 2 hrs trek / 2 hrs drive
- Day 10: Free Day in Pokhara (820m) – Optional yoga, spa, paragliding or lakeside relaxation
- Day 11: Drive to Kathmandu (1,400m) – 6–7 hrs drive / farewell dinner
- Day 12: Final Departure – Airport drop-off
🗓️ Nepal Highlights Tour – 12-Day Detailed Itinerary
This 12-day Nepal Highlights Tour takes you through the best of Nepal—starting with the spiritual and architectural wonders of Kathmandu, a magical sunrise in Nagarkot, and a wildlife-filled adventure in Chitwan National Park. From there, travel to the tranquil lakeside city of Pokhara, followed by a gentle Himalayan trek to the traditional Gurung village of Ghandruk.
The itinerary is carefully paced to combine cultural discovery, nature, soft adventure, and wellness moments, making it ideal for first-time visitors or anyone seeking an immersive yet comfortable journey through Nepal.
Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu (1,400m)
Activities: Airport pickup, welcome briefing
Accommodation: Hotel Serenity or similar
Meals Included: Welcome Dinner
Welcome to the vibrant capital of Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted by our team and transferred to your hotel in Thamel—the buzzing cultural and tourist hub of Kathmandu. Settle in, rest, or take a short evening stroll to absorb the atmosphere of ancient temples, prayer wheels, and traditional bazaars.
In the evening, we’ll gather for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. You’ll meet your guide and fellow travelers, and we’ll give a quick overview of your upcoming Nepal Highlights Tour, covering everything from cultural tips to packing essentials.
Day 2: Full-Day Kathmandu Sightseeing (1,400m)
Activities: Guided cultural tour of UNESCO sites
Accommodation: Hotel Serenity
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we begin exploring the deep spiritual heritage of Kathmandu Valley. You’ll visit Pashupatinath, the sacred Hindu cremation site on the Bagmati River; Boudhanath, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world; Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple; and the architectural marvel of Patan Durbar Square.
This day offers a powerful introduction to the history, art, and religion that shape Nepal. It sets the tone for your entire Nepal Highlights Tour, showing you how seamlessly culture and spirituality blend in everyday life here.
Day 3: Kathmandu to Nagarkot via Bhaktapur (2,000m)
Activities: Heritage walk and scenic drive
Accommodation: Nagarkot View Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, we leave the bustle of Kathmandu behind and head toward Bhaktapur, a medieval city known for its beautifully preserved temples, courtyards, and wood-carved windows. Walk through its cobbled alleys, and don’t miss the famed 55-Window Palace, Nyatapola Temple, and local pottery square.
Later, we ascend to Nagarkot, a quiet ridge town perched at 2,000m, famous for its sunrise and sunset Himalayan panoramas. On a clear day, you might even spot Everest. This overnight stay in nature provides a peaceful pause in your Nepal Highlights Tour.
Day 4: Nagarkot to Chitwan (415m)
Activities: Sunrise view, drive to Chitwan, village tour
Accommodation: Jungle Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Start the day early to watch a majestic sunrise over the Himalayas from your hotel terrace. After breakfast, we begin our scenic journey southward into the subtropical plains of Nepal.
Arriving in Chitwan, we check into a jungle resort near the national park. In the evening, enjoy a Tharu village walk—learn about the indigenous Tharu people, their stilt houses, and rich customs passed down for generations. This cultural immersion adds depth to your Nepal Highlights Tour, connecting you to both landscape and people.
Day 5: Full-Day Jungle Safari in Chitwan (415m)
Activities: Canoeing, jungle walk, jeep safari, cultural dance
Accommodation: Jungle Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today is packed with wildlife experiences. Begin with a canoe ride along the Rapti River to spot crocodiles, kingfishers, and herons. Follow it with a guided jungle walk, where you might see deer, wild boars, and langurs.
In the afternoon, a jeep safari through Chitwan National Park takes you deeper into the jungle. Keep your eyes open for the rare one-horned rhinoceros, and if you’re lucky, even a sloth bear or Bengal tiger. End the day with a Tharu cultural dance show, complete with traditional drums and fire tricks—an unforgettable part of your Nepal Highlights Tour.
Day 6: Drive to Pokhara (820m)
Activities: Scenic drive, relax by the lake
Accommodation: Hotel Queens Park or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, we begin the overland journey to Pokhara, Nepal’s most relaxed and scenic city. This drive is filled with lush hills, riverside towns, and terraced farmland. Upon arrival, check into your lakeside hotel and unwind.
Take an optional walk along Phewa Lake, enjoy coffee with a view of Machapuchare (Fishtail Mountain), or catch the sunset from a quiet rooftop. The shift in energy as we move from jungle to lake city is one of the magical contrasts on your Nepal Highlights Tour.
Day 7: Pokhara Sightseeing (820m)
Activities: Sarangkot sunrise, Peace Pagoda, cave, falls, boat ride
Accommodation: Hotel Queens Park
Meals Included: Breakfast
Rise early for a drive to Sarangkot, a hilltop viewpoint that offers breathtaking sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Watch as the peaks turn gold in the morning light—a highlight for photographers and nature lovers alike.
Later, visit the stunning World Peace Pagoda, the sacred Gupteshwor Cave, and Davis Falls, a powerful underground waterfall. End the day with a peaceful boat ride on Phewa Lake, surrounded by the calm presence of mountains—yet another reason why the Nepal Highlights Tour is such a well-rounded journey.
Day 8: Drive to Kimche, Trek to Ghandruk (1,940m)
Activities: Drive and trek
Accommodation: Mountain Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today you leave the city behind and enter the lower Himalayas. A scenic morning drive brings us to Kimche, the starting point of our short trek. From here, a gentle 3–4 hour hike leads to Ghandruk, one of the most beautiful Gurung villages in Nepal.
You’ll pass through terraced fields, stone steps, and forested trails, eventually reaching your cozy mountain lodge. As the sun sets, enjoy warm dal bhat and gaze at the snow-covered peaks of Annapurna South and Machapuchare. This trekking segment adds just the right touch of mountain magic to your Nepal Highlights Tour.
Day 9: Trek to Kimche, Drive to Pokhara (820m)
Activities: Trek and drive
Accommodation: Hotel Queens Park
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
After a leisurely breakfast, we descend back to Kimche through quiet trails and return to Pokhara by private vehicle. You’ll arrive in the early afternoon—just in time for a well-deserved shower and a celebratory meal by the lake.
Whether you relax at a lakeside café or take a sunset stroll, this is a perfect evening to reflect on your trekking experience and how far you’ve come on your Nepal Highlights Tour.
Day 10: Free Day in Pokhara (820m)
Activities: Optional yoga, massage, paragliding, spa
Accommodation: Hotel Queens Park
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today is all yours. Sleep in, take a morning yoga class, get a relaxing Ayurvedic massage, or go paragliding for a bird’s-eye view of Pokhara. You can also explore local markets, sip masala tea at a lakeside café, or visit the International Mountain Museum.
This is a day of rest, reward, and reflection—an intentional pause in your Nepal Highlights Tour that helps you fully absorb the richness of your journey.
Day 11: Drive Back to Kathmandu (1,400m)
Activities: Scenic return drive, farewell dinner
Accommodation: Hotel Serenity or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Farewell Dinner
After breakfast, we take a scenic drive back to Kathmandu, following the Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers past rural villages and rolling hills. Upon arrival, enjoy your final evening with a farewell dinner featuring Nepali cuisine, music, and heartfelt goodbyes.
This is the closing chapter of your unforgettable Nepal Highlights Tour, but the memories will last forever.
Day 12: Final Departure
Activities: Airport transfer
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, we’ll transfer you to the airport for your international flight. If you’re staying longer or joining another adventure, we’ll assist with logistics. Otherwise, we’ll part ways with full hearts and new friendships from your incredible Nepal Highlights Tour.
💎 Nepal Highlights Tour – Standard Package Cost (Per Person)
| Group Size | USD Price | AUD Equivalent | NZD Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 to 14 | $2,799 PP | AUD $4,299 | NZD $4,599 |
Single Supplement: USD $450 (applies for private rooms)
Includes in Nepal Highlights Tour Cost:
- 3-star tourist-standard hotels in Kathmandu, Nagarkot, Chitwan & Pokhara
- Clean and comfortable mountain lodge in Ghandruk (basic amenities)
- Private vehicle transport (standard tourist van or jeep)
- Guided sightseeing in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Pokhara
- All park entry fees and permits
- Jeep safari, canoe ride, and Tharu cultural show in Chitwan
- Porter service during trek (1 porter per 2 guests)
- Licensed English-speaking Expert tour guide or Hire Prasan
- Meals included:
- Daily breakfast in cities
- Full board (B/L/D) during Ghandruk trek and Chitwan stay
- Welcome & farewell dinners
- All government taxes and service charges
What’s Not Included
- ✈️ Nepal entry visa fee (USD $30 for 15 days – available on arrival)
- 🌍 International airfare to/from Nepal
- 🍽️ Lunches & dinners in Kathmandu, Nagarkot, and Pokhara (except where listed)
- 🛫 Optional domestic flight (Pokhara–Kathmandu) — available upon request in luxury package
- 🧺 Personal expenses such as:
- Snacks, drinks, alcoholic beverages
- Laundry and hot showers during the trek
- Wi-Fi and battery charging at lodges (for basic package)
- 🧳 Trekking gear rental or purchase (available in Kathmandu or Pokhara)
- 💵 Tips for guide, porter, driver, and hotel staff (recommended: $6–8/day for guide, $4–6/day for porter)
- 🩺 Travel insurance (mandatory) – must cover medical, evacuation & trip interruption
- 🚁 Emergency evacuation by helicopter (if required – covered by insurance)
- 💆 Spa, yoga, or wellness treatments (optional add-ons available)
- 🎫 Entry tickets to optional sites not mentioned in the itinerary
- 🛏️ Single supplement cost for those wanting a private room
🧳 Additional Information
This section covers all the essential details to help you prepare for your Nepal Highlights Tour—from accommodation and meals to visa guidance, health and safety tips, packing suggestions, tipping customs, and transportation insights. It’s everything you need to travel confidently and comfortably through Nepal.
🏨 Accommodation
During your 12-day Nepal Highlights Tour, you’ll stay in clean, well-located 3-star tourist-standard hotels and locally run lodges:
- Kathmandu, Nagarkot & Pokhara: Comfortable hotels with private twin-share rooms, attached bathrooms, hot showers, and daily housekeeping
- Chitwan: Jungle resort or Community lodge with full board, private bathrooms, and garden or riverside settings
- Ghandruk (trekking): Traditional mountain lodge with twin-sharing rooms, shared or attached bathrooms (based on availability), and warm local hospitality
All accommodations include daily breakfast and provide a cozy, authentic experience.
🍽️ Meals
- Included Meals:
- Breakfast daily at all city hotels
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the Ghandruk trek and Chitwan safari
- Welcome dinner on arrival and farewell dinner in Kathmandu
- Not Included:
- Lunch and dinner on Days 2, 3, 6, 7, 9, and 10 (available at local restaurants)
You’ll enjoy a mix of Nepali, Indian, and international cuisine. Vegetarian and vegan meals are widely available. Let us know about any dietary restrictions in advance.
🛂 Visa Information
- Visa on Arrival:
Most travelers can get a visa at Kathmandu Airport upon arrival. - Fees (as of 2025):
- 15-day visa: USD $30
- 30-day visa: USD $50
- What You Need:
- Valid passport (at least 6 months remaining)
- One passport-size photo (or digital copy)
- Cash or credit card for payment
You can also apply online before arriving.
🏥 Health & Safety
This Nepal Highlights Tour stays below 2,000m, so altitude sickness is not a concern.
- Your guide is trained in basic first aid, and we carry a group medical kit
- Travel insurance is mandatory, covering medical treatment and emergency evacuation
- You should:
- Drink 2–3L of water per day
- Use only boiled or filtered water (available at lodges and hotels)
- Wash or sanitize your hands before meals
- Avoid undercooked meat and unwashed fruits
🚐 Transportation & Road Conditions
- All ground transport is by private tourist vehicle, included in your package.
- Roads from Kathmandu to Chitwan and Pokhara are scenic but may be bumpy in sections due to roadwork and weather conditions.
- Typical drives:
- Kathmandu to Nagarkot: ~1.5 hours
- Nagarkot to Chitwan: ~6–7 hours
- Chitwan to Pokhara: ~5–6 hours
- Pokhara to Kimche (trek start): ~2 hours
- Pokhara to Kathmandu: ~6–7 hours
We schedule frequent rest stops and use comfortable vehicles suitable for long drives.
🗓️ Best Time to Travel
The ideal seasons for this Nepal Highlights Tour are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). These months offer clear skies, moderate temperatures, and stunning Himalayan views. Winter (December–February) is also suitable for low-altitude travel, though mornings and evenings can be chilly, especially in Nagarkot and Ghandruk.
🚶♂️ Tour Pace & Difficulty
This is a soft adventure tour, perfect for travelers of all ages and fitness levels. The short trek to Ghandruk involves light uphill walking (around 3–4 hours) with plenty of rest stops. No prior trekking experience is required—just a spirit of exploration.
🎒 Trekking Support
During the Ghandruk trek, your main luggage will be carried by porters (1 porter for every 2 participants). You’ll only need to carry a small daypack with your water, snacks, layers, and personal items.
👥 Group Size
We keep things personal and enjoyable. All departures are guaranteed with a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 14 participants. It’s the perfect size for shared experiences, flexibility, and real connection.
🧘 Wellness Add-ons (Optional)
You can enhance your Nepal Highlights Tour with optional daily yoga, guided meditation, or sound healing sessions. Ideal for travelers looking for inner balance alongside cultural exploration. These can be arranged upon request before the tour begins.
🏡 Accommodation Note
Your overnight stay in Ghandruk is at a locally run mountain lodge with traditional charm and beautiful mountain views. Rooms are twin-share, with shared or attached bathrooms based on availability. All other accommodations are 3-star tourist-standard hotels in cities and safari lodges in Chitwan.
🏔️ Altitude Note
The highest elevation on this Nepal Highlights Tour is Ghandruk (1,940m)—well below the altitude where acclimatization is a concern. This tour is perfect for travelers who want mountain views without high-altitude challenges.
🎒 Packing Suggestions
A detailed packing list will be provided upon booking. Essentials include:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Warm layers for changing temperatures
- A small daypack
- Water bottle
- Sun hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses
- Casual, modest clothing for cultural sites and safari days
💵 Local Payments & Currency
Carry some Nepalese Rupees (NPR) in small denominations for snacks, tips, drinks, and souvenirs. While cards are accepted in most Kathmandu and Pokhara hotels and restaurants, cash is necessary in rural areas and during the trek.
🙏 Cultural Etiquette
Respect local traditions by dressing modestly, especially at temples and heritage sites. Remove shoes before entering sacred places and always ask permission before taking photos of local people. Your guide will provide helpful tips along the way to ensure culturally respectful and responsible travel.
💰 Money Matters on the Nepal Highlights Tour
During the Nepal Highlights Tour, most major expenses—like transportation, accommodation, guided activities, and most meals—are included in your package. However, you’ll still need some personal spending money for extras such as:
- Lunches and dinners not included in the itinerary
- Drinks, snacks, and souvenirs
- Laundry and internet at hotels
- Entrance fees for optional activities or monuments
- Tips for guides, drivers, and porters
We recommend budgeting around NPR 3,000–4,000 per day (~USD $25–35) for these additional expenses.
Local currency:
The official currency is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). You can exchange foreign currency or withdraw local cash at ATMs in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Some urban hotels and shops accept cards, but rural areas like Ghandruk are cash-only.
Bring a mix of small denominations for easier tipping and local purchases.
🤝 Tipping Guidelines
Tipping is not mandatory in Nepal but is deeply appreciated and considered part of the culture—especially in tourism. It’s a way to show gratitude for the hospitality, effort, and service of the local team.
Here are general tipping suggestions for the Nepal Highlights Tour:
- Tour Guide: USD $5–8 per person per day
- Driver: USD $3–5 per person per day
- Porter (for the trek): USD $3–4 per person per day
- Hotel Staff (optional): NPR 100–200 for bellboys or housekeeping
- Chitwan Safari Guides: USD $3–5 for your naturalist/jeep guide
💡 Tip in local currency (NPR) if possible, or in clean USD notes. Place tips in an envelope or hand them with a smile—your appreciation means a lot to the team.
🌄 Final Thoughts – Nepal Highlights Tour
The Nepal Highlights Tour is a soulful 12-day journey that captures the essence of Nepal—from ancient temples and sunrise mountain views to jungle safaris and peaceful Himalayan trails. It’s perfect for travelers who want a mix of culture, nature, and light adventure without high-altitude trekking or fast-paced travel.
Thoughtfully designed and locally guided, this tour offers meaningful moments, beautiful landscapes, and genuine connections with the people and places of Nepal.
If you’re ready to explore the best of Nepal in comfort and style, I’d be honored to help you bring this journey to life.