Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan Tour - 9 days

Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan Tour - 9 days


Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan Tour lets you visit the most popular destinations in Nepal. This tour takes you to some of the best places to visit in Nepal - Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan. Book this Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan tour and find out why Nepal is one of the best value destinations in the world. Experience nature, culture, adventure with magnificent  Himalayan views.

Visit the medieval kingdoms in vibrant Kathmandu. Discover the capital city’s cultural treasures with a walk through some of the famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Explore the medieval palace squares of  Patan and Bhaktapur, repositories of Nepal’s finest traditional architecture and works of art. Marvel at the fine details and craftsmanship of artisans as you inspect the exquisitely crafted wooden windows, metal repoussé, and stone sculptures. Step inside a gigantic mandala (a Buddhist representation of the universe) at Boudhanath Stupa. Witness Hindu devotees thronging the gilded pagoda-roofed temple of Pashupatinath. Ascend the stone staircase leading up to the hilltop shrine of Swoyambhunath.

One of the best Nepal tour packages, Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan Tour also lets you experience the natural wonders of Pokhara. Set beside the picturesque Phewa Lake, there are lots to see and do in this city. Spend an entire day soaking up the sights. Enjoy a Himalayan sunrise from Sarangkot Hill. Watch the snowy spires of Dhaulagiri, Machapucchre (Fishtail Peak), Annapurna II, and Lamjung Himal lighting up as dawn breaks over the snowy peaks. Take a wildlife safari and explore the jungle at Chitwan National Park - a natural UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is home to the endangered one-horned rhinoceros, Royal Bengal Tiger, and a host of rare flora and fauna. Enjoy the jeep safari, and canoe ride. Get a peek into the rich Tharu (indigenous inhabitant of Chitwan) culture through their songs and dances. End your Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan Tour with a traditional Nepali feast in Kathmandu.

Useful Links for Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan Tour

Things to do in Pokhara

How to get Pokhara from Kathmandu?

Things to do in Chitwan National Park

How to Get to Chitwan National Park from Kathmandu?

Places to visit in Nepal - Inside and Outside of Kathmandu Valley

How Much Does This Trip Cost?

The trip's price depends on the type of services chosen by our clients and the group size. The cost of each trip we organize is different because we see travelers as individuals having their own particular needs and preferences.

Get ready for an incredible journey tailored to your interests and preferences, whether you're looking for a budget-friendly adventure or a luxurious getaway. Leave the planning to us as we take care of all the details, ensuring your dream trip becomes a reality. You can relax and focus on creating unforgettable memories that will stay with you forever.

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Trip Highlights

  • Discover Kathmandu’s renowned UNESCO World Heritage Sites
  • Visit Kathmandu Valley’s three medieval kingdoms – Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur
  • Visit the House of Kumari, the Living Goddess
  • Pokhara sightseeing. Experience a Himalayan sunrise from Sarangkot
  • Enjoy wildlife safari at Chitwan National Park during your Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan Tour

 Is this trip suitable for you?

  • Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan Tour is a combination of cultural tours, wildlife safari, and white-water rafting adventure (optional). 
  • This trip requires minimal physical exertion and can be done by people of all fitness levels. Easy walking on level ground while exploring heritage sites and wildlife parks. Kids and elderly clients can also do this trip. 
  • An experienced local guide will be guiding and assisting you throughout your trip. If you opt to raft down the Trishuli River, you will have to follow your river guide and pay attention to the safety instructions given by your guide.
  • Comfortable private vehicles will be used for overland transportation. In Chitwan you will get to explore the jungle, Jungle walk as well as from aboard a jeep. 

Optional Activity-On Request:

If you want to raft down the Trishuli (a glacial river), it can be arranged at an added cost on the fourth day of your trip while driving to Pokhara from Kathmandu.  Stop at the put-in point and head to the glacial river of Trishuli for an exciting rafting experience. Wear your lifejacket and helmet, grab a paddle and climb aboard the rubber raft. Before that, listen to your river guide’s safety instructions carefully.  Ride the white rapids and float down the river.  Enjoy the mountain scenery as the raft glides down past the sandy beaches. Get off at the put-off point and get back to your vehicle.

Please do note, taking this adventure will incur an extra cost.

Brief Itinerary

Day Highlights
Day 1 Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,593ft) - Transfer to Hotel
Day 2 Sightseeing in Kathmandu
Day 3 Sightseeing tour of Patan and Bhaktapur
Day 4 Drive to Pokhara (800m/2,624ft) - 6 to 7 hours (200km) drive
Day 5 Sightseeing in Pokhara
Day 6 Sunrise from Sarangkot and drive to Chitwan - 4 to 5 hours (130km) drive
Day 7 Jungle Activities at Chitwan National Park
Day 8 Drive to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,593ft) 5 to 6 hours (150km) drive
Day 9 Depart Kathmandu

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,593ft) - Transfer to Hotel

If you arrive in Kathmandu during the day, you will be greeted with wonderful vistas of green hills and snowy peaks rising on the horizon. From the comfort of your plane, get an aerial perspective of Kathmandu valley surrounded by the green hills of Nagarjuna, Shivapuri, Champa Devi, and Pulchowki. The city lies in a bowl-shaped valley ringed by the above-mentioned hills.  At the airport, you will be greeted by our representative, who will drive you to your hotel. After reaching your hotel, check in and take a rest. No activity has been planned for the day. If you want, you can explore Thamel (a tourist hotspot) on your own.

Overnight in Kathmandu. 

Day 2
Sightseeing in Kathmandu

Bouddhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath Temple and Kathmandu Durbar square
Swayambhunath stupa Swayambhunath Stupa, Kathmandu

Commence your sightseeing tour with a trip to Boudhanath Stupa. The biggest stupa in Nepal, this ancient stupa is a UNESCO Heritage site and an important center of Tibetan Buddhism. According to local legend, the bones of Kasyapa Buddha (a previous incarnation of Lord Buddha) are buried beneath this gigantic stupa. Next, head to another UNESCO Heritage Site and an important Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, Pashupatinath Temple. The pagoda-roofed temple, dating back to 400 AD, is located on the banks of the sacred Bagmati river. Non- Hindus are not allowed inside the temple. They are allowed to view the temple from the eastern bank of the river. 

Later, head to Swayambhunath, a hilltop shrine that is closely linked to the formation of Kathmandu Valley. According to a local legend, Kathmandu was actually a lake. A Bodhisattva (divine being) Manjushri saw a lotus at this lake while meditating. He flew from Tibet and drained the lake to meditate at the spot where the lotus was. The story goes that Swayambhunath (meaning self-created) Stupa was created when the divine lotus bloomed. Sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists, you can find people of both these faiths praying at this shrine. You have to climb a flight of stairs to reach the shrine. There is a sizable monkey population living on the hillside. Therefore this temple is also known as ‘Monkey Temple.’  From the top, you can enjoy a 360-degree view of the city. Later, head back to your hotel.

Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 3
Sightseeing tour of Patan and Bhaktapur

Patan Durbar Square, Golden Temple, Bhaktpur Durbar Square
Patan Durbar Square Patan Durbar Square

Kathmandu Valley is made up of three ancient medieval cities- Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur.  Today you get to visit the palace squares of two of these medieval kingdoms. From your hotel, you drive towards the southern end of the city. Patan (also known as Lalitpur, ‘the City of Artisans’) is one of the three medieval kingdoms in Kathmandu valley. The beautiful Durbar square at Patan is a quadrangle filled with pagoda-roofed palaces and temples built by the Malla Kings. The palace has been converted into a museum that houses several ancient relics and historical items. Though some of the monuments at the square have been damaged by the 2015 earthquake, there are still enough pagoda-roofed shrines standing that will grab your attention. You will be interested to know that parts of the Hollywood hit ‘Doctor Strange’ (a Marvel production) were shot in Patan Durbar and Pashupatinath Temple.

After exploring Patan, head towards the eastern end of the city, to Bhaktapur. The Durbar Square at Bhaktapur (the City of Devotees) is one of the best-preserved heritage sites in the valley. No large vehicles are allowed inside the medieval square. The 2015 earthquake did damage some of the ancient structures but some of the cultural gems still standing will take your breath away. The artistry and craftsmanship that went into creating these temples and palaces will keep you enthralled. Don’t forget to check out the Golden Gate, Palace of 55 Windows, Nyatapole Temple (once it was the tallest building in Kathmandu valley), and its massive staircase guarded by stone statues of mustachioed wrestlers. The old city is divided into Durbar Square, Taumadhi Square, Dattatreya Square, and Pottery Square. After you have walked through the ancient palaces and shrines, rest for a while at the busy Pottery Square observing the local potters at work and the pedestrians.  Before you leave Bhaktapur don’t forget to taste this medieval city’s famous delicacy Juju Dhau (King’s Curd).

Overnight in Kathmandu. 

Day 4
Drive to Pokhara (800m/2,624ft) - 6 to 7 hours (200km) drive

Wake up early and drive to Pokhara after breakfast. After leaving Kathmandu, the road dips down a serpentine bend known as Naubise. Outstanding views of mountains open up. If you are traveling in winter you will get to see the horizon filled with snow-covered peaks. Picturesque views of mountain-top villages and busy roadside settlements will keep you enthralled. Stop at Kurintar head to the glacial river of Trishuli for an exciting rafting experience. Wear your life jacket and helmet, grab a paddle and climb aboard the rubber raft. Before that, listen to your river guide’s safety instructions carefully. Ride the white rapids and float down the river. Enjoy the mountain scenery as the raft glides down past the sandy beaches. Get off at the put-off point and get back to your vehicle. Continue your journey towards Pokhara. The highway winds up above the fast-flowing Trishuli River. At Mugling, you cross a bridge and leave the Tribhuvan Highway and approach the Prithvi Highway. Enjoy the scenery as the road winds along with scenic vistas. After driving for a few hours you arrive in Pokhara. Head to your hotel and check in. Take rest as you have a busy day tomorrow.

Overnight in Pokhara.

Day 5
Sightseeing in Pokhara

Barahi Temple, Phewa Lake, Davis Fall, Gupteshwar Cave, International Mountain Museum
Fewa Lake Fewa (Phewa) Lake Pokhara

Visit the island shrine of goddess Barahi. Take a boat ride across Phewa Lake to visit the temple. The temple is dedicated to the mother goddess Durga ’protector of the gods’. The temple is surrounded on all sides by Phewa Lake. Observe people enjoying a ride on the colorful boats and take pictures of the lake. Later, head to Davis Falls, a waterfall that flows into an underground tunnel. Next, visit the Gupteshwar Gupha (cave), an underground cave with Lord Shiva's shrine. You climb down a spiral staircase to reach the entrance of the cave. Be careful where you step, as it is a bit wet and slippery inside the cave. At the bottom of the cave’s wall is a crack from where you can see the waters from the Davis Fall falling down. Also, visit the International Mountain Museum, where equipment and gear from most of the first Himalayan expeditions are showcased. You can also get plenty of information about the Himalayan range and the culture and lifestyle of people living in the Himalayas.

Overnight in Pokhara. 

Day 6
Sunrise from Sarangkot and drive to Chitwan - 4 to 5 hours (130km) drive

Drive to Sarangkot Hill to catch the famous ‘Sarangkot’s Himalayan sunrise’
Sunrise from Sarangkot Sunrise from Sarangkot, Pokhara

Get up early and drive to Sarangkot Hill to catch the famous ‘Sarangkot’s Himalayan sunrise’. Through your journey to the bottom of the vehicle, you have to hike up to the top of the hill. Once you reach the top you get a 360-degree view of Pokhara valley and the Himalayan peaks. Witness a beautiful sunrise as dawn breaks over the mountains splashing the mountains in colorful hues of red, orange, and golden-yellow. This moment is nothing short of magical and chances are you will cherish it forever. Afterward, head back to your hotel, have breakfast, and head onwards to Chitwan.

The road to Chitwan is filled with delightful sights of babbling brooks, hillsides covered with greenery, and inspiring mountain views. Once you reach Chitwan, check into your hotel and get refreshed.  Late afternoon take a stroll and explore a Tharu village. Tharus are an ethnic group that has been living in the jungles of Chitwan for ages.

Overnight in Chitwan.

Day 7
Jungle Activities at Chitwan National Park

Jungle safari by Jeep, Tharu cultural Program

Your day is filled with exciting activities (Jungle Safari). The Chitwan National Park is Nepal’s first National Park. It is a natural UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is home to the endangered one-horned rhinoceros, Royal Bengal Tiger, and a host of endangered flora and fauna. Explore more of the park’s interior by taking a jeep safari. Observe adult rhinos minding their little ones. Watch the spotted deer frolicking under the trees. You will see peacocks and marsh muggers basking in the warm sun near the river. You also get to visit the Elephant Breeding Centre, where you will meet mother elephants with their calves. In the evening you can enjoy a Tharu cultural program. A cultural troupe will entertain you and other guests with Tharu songs and dances. Have dinner and retire for the night.

Overnight in Chitwan. 

Day 8
Drive to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,593ft) 5 to 6 hours (150km) drive

5-6 hours drive

You take an overland journey back to Kathmandu. Drive along the Tribhuvan Highway and pass through rustic villages and fields, hills covered with verdant forests and glacial rivers with sandy beaches. The vehicle climbs up a steep mountainside, as you approach Kathmandu valley. Enjoy views of the mountains. Once you reach Kathmandu, check into your hotel and take rest. If you feel like it, you can shop for souvenirs in Thamel or explore the local market Ason Bazaar on your own. Come evening, celebrate the completion of your memorable tour with a farewell dinner(complimentary). One of our representatives will accompany you to an authentic Nepalese restaurant for a traditional Nepalese feast. Enjoy traditional songs and dances as you try out Nepalese cuisine.

Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 9
Depart Kathmandu

You will be driven to the airport well on time to catch your homeward bound flight. If you want to explore more of Nepal or Bhutan or Tibet, do let us know. We run tours in all these destinations.



Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan Tour FAQs

Most of our tour guides speak English, which is a common communication medium. They are also trained, experienced and know the areas very well.

Yes, you are allowed to take pictures of the places. However, taking photographs in certain areas need permission and you can consult your tour guide for that matter. Please do seek permission of people before taking their pictures.

Most of the tour focuses on the UNESCO World Heritage sites in the old cities of Patan and Bhaktapur.

We usually provide private comfortable vehicles to individual tourists. For groups we provide comfortable luxury buses for pick up and drop-offs.

While tipping is not mandatory it is a nice way of showing your appreciation to the people who have helped you enrich your holiday experience. It all depends on how far you are pleased and satisfied with their services. There is no fixed amount, but many of our clients offer 8-10 percent of the total tour price as tips.   


How will you be traveling?

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100%
Based on 8 reviews


Latest Trip Reviews

Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.

Maya Harvey
flagsUnited States of America
Mar 24, 2022

Lovely Trip

Always wanted to explore the revered UNESCO sites in Kathmandu, and finally did it. It was a wonderful experience. The Kathmandu valley has a lot to offer! After exploring Kathmandu, we rushed through beautiful highway to Pokhara, another best tourist hub in Nepal. It welcomed me with beautiful sky and mountains. Sarankot is the best place to enjoy sunrise! Then Chitwan was the next destination where I had great time in the national park.
Paul Johnson
flagsUnited Kingdom
Mar 20, 2022

Great Time in Nepal

It was an easy-going trip to Nepal with lots of wonderful memories. From Kathmandu to Pokhara and Chitwan, I explored some of the best the country has to offer. It was without a doubt, one of the finest itineraries for the relaxed tour. Every day is full of rewards! Go for it if you want to explore Nepal in the best way.
Bianca Manning
flagsUnited States of America
Mar 15, 2022

UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE

Explored Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan in just 9 days. This tour rewards incredible views of the mountains and dramatic landscapes. The street in Kathmandu through the UNESCO world heritage sites are best explored in free time. My city tour guide was full of knowledge, and humor. The cultural and religious aspect of the city is overwhelmingly charming. I got stuck to some of the indescriable architecture of the monuments and sites. There are so much more to learn from it. Pokhara is aspiringly beautiful. We drove to Sarankot to witness the magic of sunrise over the lofty mountains. ANd the final leg of this tour led us to Chitwan National Park, for the perfect end of the tour. Thanks to Naba and his team.
Declan Barrett
flagsUnited States of America
Mar 10, 2022

Wonderful KTM PKR CHITWAN tour

It was a great time exploring some major tourist destinations in Nepal, including POKHARA, KATHMANDU, and CHITWAN. Nepal is truly an amazing country for travelers, and got best introduction tour of the country. Will plan for a trek in the Himalayas. Thanks TRA for this wonderful trip.
Adam Forsberg
flagsSweden
Jun 07, 2019

Wonderful family time in Nepal

I had done trekking in Nepal during my college days. So, I was looking forward to explore other aspect of Nepal and this time I returned Nepal with my wife and children. My wife is inclined towards architecture so she was delighted to visit the durbar squares. Walking in those streets felt like we were in a different era. Kathmandu is filled with UNESCO world heritage sites and it’s picturesque. Felt Pashupatinath and Bouddhanath were just out of a travel channel. Pokhara is more relaxing than Kathmandu and I really love the city like many other tourists. Also found out that it’s a popular city among Nepalese as well. Boating in the calm waters of Phewa Lake is one of my favorite activities of this trip. Our next destination was Chitwan. My little ones enjoyed Jeep Safari. Kids were amazed to see animals and birds so near. We had wonderful family time and felt that we were in able hands. The driver deserves a special mention who drove us through the winding roads alongside the river.
Good Value, I like itinerary
Yes
i like thier itineary
It's good to take a break from your busy schedule and indulge in some family time. Trust me guys children grow too fast and you don't want to miss out in their best years!
Gabriel Hoffmann
flagsLuxembourg
May 23, 2019

Activities besides trekking in Nepal

I am not keen to trek so wanted to do something beyond that. So this tour itinerary was exactly what I was looking for. The spiritual experience of the cultural heritages in Kathmandu was amazing. We had a scenic drive to Pokhara alongside a meandering river and stopped to raft; couldn’t have asked for more. Sunrise from Sarangcoat was beautiful; Pokara had a calming effect on me. Had an awesome time in Cheatwan National park. Got to do canoeing ride in the water with crocodiles. We saw birds, deer, interacted with baby elephants in the breeding center. During the Jeep Safari, we got to see rhinos and deer very closely. Elusive Tiger was nowhere to be found. Nevertheless, it was an enriching experience.
Best Destination
Yes
Many memories to cherish can't choose one
there are more activities to do in Nepal if you don't want to trek like rafting, jungle safari, sightseeing, and lots of chilling.
Helen Yang
flagsSingapore
Mar 21, 2019

A wonderful experience

Before traveling to Nepal we toured India (Delhi, Varanasi and Bodh Gaya). Although the places we visited were amazing, our group had some issues with the hygiene and cleanliness at the places we had stayed. Since we had travelled independently in India, we decided to book our Nepal tour through an agency. We chose Third Rock Adventure’s ‘Best of Nepal’ itinerary as it was pretty close to what we had in mind. The accommodation was booked by the company, so we did not have the hassle of booking the hotels. Before booking this trip we specified clearly that we wanted to stay in ‘clean’ hotels. Though the travel consultant assured us that about the hygiene and cleanliness of the hotels they use, we wouldn’t help feeling a bit apprehensive. But all our doubts were laid to rest and we had a pretty good stay at all the hotels. It was great to rest our heads on clean linen and use a spick and span bathroom after a long day of sightseeing. The places we visited were amazing and we had a great guide. While he explained the significance of the places we visited, he gave us enough space to take in the beauty of the places. If our international flights weren’t pre-booked we would have loved to spend some more days in Pokhara (one of the most picturesque cities that I have visited). All in all we had a great Nepal tour. Hopefully we will find time to visit this country again. When this happens we will book our tour with Third Rock Adventures again. We highly recommend this company!
Because the itinerary matched tours.
When you visit Swoyambhunath Temple, hold on tightly to your belongings. Had my sunglasses snatched by a monkey. I did not get it back!
Eric Cardozo
flagsUnited Arab Emirates
Mar 01, 2019

A fantastic family holiday- Kathmandu, Pokhara,Chitwan!

I booked this tour with Third Rock Adventures after I read the positive reviews about this company on Trip Advisor, and must say I don’t regret it one bit. This was a family holiday and we had a great time. It was fascinating to explore temples, stupas and palace squares built during the medieval times. We don’t see this kind of architecture, where we come from. So this was especially educational and insightful for our kids who are still in elementary school. They absolutely loved the rafting and the wildlife safari at Chitwan National Park. Words cannot express the natural beauty of Pokhara. It was a memorable experience for all of us as we experienced our first sunrise together as a family from Sarangkot. Thanks to Third Rock Adventures for making our holiday so meaningful and memorable! We are also grateful to our knowledgeable guides who were good natured and sporting enough to put up with our mischievous kids. Already planning our next family vacation with Third Rock Adventures, this time to Ghorepani-Poon hill!
Good Value,
Yes
The itinerary was ideal for a family holiday.
Sarangkot sunrise.
If you are in Nepal, don't miss out on the Himalayan sunrise.
100%

Based on 8 reviews
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8
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