The classic first-time introduction to Nepal
Essential Nepal: Kathmandu, Pokhara & Chitwan
A well-paced first journey through Nepal's three most complementary regions — heritage in Kathmandu, mountains and lakes in Pokhara, and wildlife in Chitwan.
AI-generated illustrationWho this suits
Travellers on their first trip to Nepal who want a genuine, well-rounded introduction without over-packing the schedule — a mix of culture, mountain scenery and wildlife in a manageable nine days.
Day-by-day itinerary
- 1
Day 1: Arrive Kathmandu
Private airport pickup and transfer to your hotel. Depending on arrival time, a relaxed first evening in Thamel to settle in.
Overnight: Kathmandu - 2
Day 2: Kathmandu heritage & sacred sites
A full day covering Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath and Boudhanath, with a Newari lunch and time to walk the Boudhanath kora at a relaxed pace.
Overnight: Kathmandu - 3
Day 3: Patan or Bhaktapur, then fly to Pokhara
A morning heritage visit to Patan or Bhaktapur Durbar Square, followed by a short flight (or scenic drive, if preferred) to Pokhara.
Overnight: Pokhara - 4
Day 4: Pokhara lakeside & Sarangkot sunrise
An early Sarangkot sunrise viewpoint visit, then a relaxed day around Phewa Lake, Tal Barahi Temple and the World Peace Pagoda.
Overnight: Pokhara - 5
Day 5: Free day / optional activity
A flexible day for an optional short trek to Australian Camp or Dhampus, paragliding, or simply more time by the lake.
Overnight: Pokhara - 6
Day 6: Drive to Chitwan
A scenic drive to Chitwan, arriving in time for an introductory walk and orientation with your naturalist guide.
Overnight: Chitwan - 7
Day 7: Chitwan National Park
A full day of jungle activities — jeep safari, a canoe excursion and a Tharu cultural evening.
Overnight: Chitwan - 8
Day 8: Return to Kathmandu
Morning birdwatching walk, then transfer back to Kathmandu by road or short flight via Bharatpur.
Overnight: Kathmandu - 9
Day 9: Departure
Final free time depending on flight schedule, then private transfer to the airport.
Overnight: —
Typically included
- All accommodation as per itinerary
- Private airport and intercity transfers
- English-speaking guide for sightseeing and safari activities
- Entrance fees for included sightseeing
- Chitwan National Park activities as listed (jeep safari, canoe, guided walk)
- Daily breakfast; additional meals as noted at booking
Typically excluded
- International flights
- Nepal visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Optional activities (paragliding, extra treks, etc.)
- Personal expenses and gratuities
- Meals not specified as included
Optional upgrades
- Domestic flights instead of road transfers
- Boutique or luxury accommodation category
- Additional Pokhara adventure activities
- One-night Nagarkot extension from Kathmandu
Important notes
- Flight schedules between Kathmandu and Pokhara/Bhairahawa are occasionally affected by weather; we build reasonable buffer time where possible.
- Exact accommodation properties are confirmed at booking stage based on availability, your preferences and room category.
- This itinerary is a starting point — every detail can be adjusted to your dates, pace and interests.
Travelling responsibly
- We favour locally owned and registered accommodation and transport partners wherever standards allow.
- Wildlife activities follow national park rules and avoid animal performance-based experiences.
Experiences on this journey
AI-generated illustrationTrekking
From gentle two-day village walks to our signature Annapurna Base Camp trek — matched to your fitness and time.
AI-generated illustrationCulture & Heritage
UNESCO World Heritage squares, living temple culture and Newari, Tharu and hill communities across Nepal.
AI-generated illustrationWildlife
Ethical jeep safari, canoe trips and guided walks in Chitwan National Park, with genuine conservation framing.
Regions covered
Kathmandu
Nepal's capital is usually where a journey begins and ends — a dense, living valley of temples, courtyards and markets that rewards slowing down for at least two or three days.
Explore Kathmandu
Pokhara
Our home base. A lakeside city facing the Annapurna range, and Nepal's most versatile hub for trekking, adventure sports, wellness and simply slowing down.
Explore PokharaChitwan
A UNESCO World Heritage lowland national park — one of the best places in Asia to see one-horned rhinos, and, with patience, a wide range of birdlife and other wildlife.
Explore ChitwanRelated guides
Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan and Lumbini: How Many Days Do You Need?
A realistic breakdown of how much time each of Shakurma's four core regions deserves, and how to combine them without over-packing your schedule.
Read guideFirst-Time Nepal Travel Guide: Everything to Know Before You Arrive
A practical starting point for a first visit to Nepal — entry requirements, what to pack, how much time to allow, and how to think about pacing your trip.
Read guide
Chitwan Safari Guide: Wildlife, Seasons and Ethical Experiences
What to expect from a Chitwan National Park visit — activities, seasons, and Shakurma's position on responsible, non-exploitative wildlife tourism.
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