Kathmandu Chitwan Pokhara – 7 Nights & 8 Days Program

Upon arrival in the Land of the Himalayas – Nepal, our friendly representatives will welcome you at Tribhuvan International Airport and escort you to your hotel in Kathmandu.

Afternoon / Evening:

Spend the rest of the day at leisure to relax and unwind. Enjoy the hotel amenities or take a short stroll around the neighborhood to soak in the local atmosphere.

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Kathmandu Durbar Square, listed as a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, is a stunning collection of ancient palaces, temples, courtyards, and narrow streets dating from the 12th to 18th centuries. Once the residence of the Nepalese monarchs, the square served as the center for royal ceremonies, including coronations. Visitors can admire elaborately carved wooden windows, panels, and doors, as well as the King Tribhuvan Memorial Museum and the Mahendra Museum. As the traditional heart of Kathmandu, the square remains a vibrant hub of culture, religion, and architecture.

Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)

Perched atop a hill west of Kathmandu, Swayambhunath Stupa is one of Nepal’s oldest and most iconic Buddhist sites, dating back to the 5th century A.D. The stupa’s dome represents the world, while the pair of large eyes on all sides symbolizes wisdom and compassion. The complex includes shrines, temples, a Tibetan monastery, a museum, and a library. Visitors can reach the temple either via a long stairway with 365 steps or by a scenic road leading to the southwest entrance. Swayambhunath offers panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley and is a key pilgrimage site for Buddhists.

Pashupatinath Temple

Located 6 km (4 miles) from Kathmandu, Pashupatinath Temple is the holiest Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, the god of destruction and a member of the Hindu Trinity. The multi-storied temple features a gilded roof, richly carved silver doors, and a sanctum housing a five-faced Shiva in the form of a lingam. Situated along the sacred Bagmati River, the temple complex also includes cremation grounds and lush surroundings. Pashupatinath is especially significant during Maha Shivaratri, attracting thousands of devotees from Nepal and India who come to worship through day and night celebrations.

Chitwan, located in the heart of the Terai region, is one of Nepal’s best-preserved natural sanctuaries. Established in 1973, Royal Chitwan National Park is home to endangered species like the one-horned Asiatic rhinoceros and the elusive Bengal tiger, along with deer, monkeys, wild boar, bison, sloth bears, leopards, and a wide variety of birds. The park’s rich flora and fauna, combined with its unique terrain, make it an ideal destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Chitwan lies only 150 meters above sea level. The climate varies seasonally: the best wildlife viewing is from February to May when short grass makes animals easier to spot; the autumn months offer stunning Himalayan views; winters (December–January) are pleasantly warm compared to Kathmandu; and the monsoon season (July–August) brings heavy rainfall, lush vegetation, and high humidity.

Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your lodge, located via Chaubiskothi, 32 km from the main highway in Bharatpur. Guests are greeted with a welcome drink, given a briefing on the lodge facilities and program, and assigned rooms. Lunch is served at 1:00 PM.

Afternoon Elephant Safari

At 3:00 PM, enjoy a short drive from the lodge to begin your elephant-back safari. This thrilling 2–3 hour ride takes you deep into the jungle to spot the park’s wildlife. Observe the one-horned rhinoceros, various deer species, monkeys, wild boar, bison, and if you are lucky, the Bengal tiger. This safari offers a close-up view of the park’s diverse wildlife in their natural habitat.

Evening Presentation & Dinner

At 7:00 PM, a slide presentation by a jungle expert provides insights into Chitwan National Park’s history, wildlife conservation, and fascinating facts about its flora and fauna. This interactive session allows for questions and discussions. Dinner follows at the central dining hall, completing a day immersed in nature and wildlife.

Tour Highlights in Chitwan

• Elephant-back safari through Chitwan National Park

• Spotting endangered one-horned rhinoceros and the elusive Bengal tiger

• Jungle walks, jeep safaris, and canoeing opportunities

• Evening educational session on wildlife and conservation

• Scenic lodge experience with authentic local hospitality

Early Morning Bird Watching / Nature Walk:

Wake up to the sounds of the jungle at 6:00 AM and enjoy tea or coffee before heading out for a bird watching and nature walk. Chitwan is a paradise for bird lovers, with 276 species recorded around the lodge out of 519 species found in the region. Knowledgeable guides will help you identify local birds and share insights about the flora and fauna during the tranquil morning walk.

Breakfast:

Return to the lodge at 8:30 AM for a hearty breakfast at the resort.

Elephant Briefing & Bathing Program:

At 9:30 AM, visit the lodge’s elephant stables for a fascinating briefing about these gentle giants. Learn about their behavior, lifestyle, and conservation efforts. During the summer months, enjoy the unique experience of elephant bathing in the river, a favorite activity for the animals. (Note: Bathing is seasonal and not forced during colder months.)

Lunch:

At 1:00 PM, enjoy lunch in the dining hall or by the poolside, soaking in the peaceful jungle surroundings.

Afternoon Boating or Jungle Presentation:

At 3:30 PM, take a traditional Patela boat ride along the Rapti River (subject to weather and water levels). This 45-minute serene journey allows you to spot aquatic birds, crocodiles, gharials, and wildlife along the riverbanks. After the ride, return to the lodge by walking or a short drive.

Alternatively, guests can attend a slide presentation by a jungle expert. Learn about the history of Chitwan National Park, wildlife conservation efforts, and interesting facts about the region. This interactive session allows guests to ask questions and deepen their understanding of the park’s ecology.

Dinner:

End the day with dinner at the central dining hall or outdoors by the pool, enjoying the sounds and ambiance of the jungle.

Highlights of the Day:

• Early morning bird watching with expert guidance

• Elephant briefing and seasonal bathing experience

• Relaxing boat ride along the Rapti River to view aquatic wildlife

• Interactive wildlife presentation by a jungle expert

• Immersive jungle lodge experience with meals surrounded by nature

Early Morning Village Visit & Bullock Cart Ride:

Wake up at 5:30 AM and enjoy a refreshing tea or coffee before heading out for a short village walk. Guided by a naturalist, learn about the social and cultural lifestyle of local villagers, their daily routines, and traditions. After exploring the village, enjoy a traditional bullock cart ride back to the lodge, immersing yourself in rural life and scenic surroundings.

Breakfast:

Return to the resort for breakfast at 8:00 AM.

Departure to Pokhara:

At 9:30 AM, begin your scenic drive to Pokhara, a journey through lush landscapes and charming towns. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and relax.

Afternoon / Evening:

The rest of the day is at leisure, allowing you to explore the lakeside area, enjoy hotel amenities, or simply unwind and soak in the natural beauty of Pokhara.

Note: This itinerary is a guideline. Exact timing and activities may vary depending on weather conditions and guest arrival time in Chitwan, as briefed by the camp manager.

Highlights:

• Morning village visit with cultural insights

• Traditional bullock cart ride through rural surroundings

• Scenic road transfer from Chitwan to Pokhara

• Leisure time to relax or explore Pokhara Lakeside

Morning: Half-Day Pokhara Sightseeing

Pokhara, nestled at the foothills of the majestic Annapurna Himalayan Range, is known as the City of Lakes. The region boasts thick forests, gushing rivers, and pristine lakes, making it the perfect getaway from the busy life of Kathmandu. Located approximately 200 km west of the capital, Pokhara offers both natural beauty and adventure activities, making it a favorite destination for travelers seeking relaxation and thrill alike.

Explore the city on a half-day sightseeing tour, visiting key attractions such as Phewa Lake, Begnas Lake, Mahendra Cave, Davis Falls, and the Seti River Gorge. Enjoy the tranquil lakeside ambience and capture breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks rising above 8,000 meters while you sit below 1,000 meters—an experience truly unique to Pokhara.

Pokhara is also a hub for adventure sports, offering activities such as paragliding, trekking, mountain biking, ultra-light flights, zip-lining, bungee jumping, rafting, and kayaking. Whether you seek adventure or serenity, Pokhara provides the perfect blend of both. As travelers often say, “You haven’t seen Nepal if you haven’t been to Pokhara—it is truly one of the paradises on earth.”

Afternoon / Evening: Leisure Time

Spend the rest of the day at leisure, relaxing by the lakeside, exploring local markets, or enjoying optional adventure activities.

Highlights:

• Scenic views of the Annapurna Himalayan Range

• Visit Phewa Lake, Begnas Lake, Davis Falls, Mahendra Cave, and Seti River Gorge

• Adventure activities: paragliding, trekking, zip-lining, rafting, and more

• Lakeside relaxation and cultural experiences

At the end of your Pokhara stay, transfer back to Kathmandu. Guests can choose between a scenic road journey or a 25-minute domestic flight from Pokhara Airport for a quicker and more comfortable option.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, check in to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure, relaxing after your journey or exploring the city at your own pace.

Highlights:

• Scenic drive or quick domestic flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu

• Comfortable transfer and hotel check-in

• Free time for relaxation, shopping, or optional city exploration

Spend your remaining time at leisure, enjoying your hotel amenities or exploring Kathmandu at your own pace. When it’s time to depart, our representative will escort you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight, concluding your memorable Nepal journey.

Highlights:

• Free time for shopping, sightseeing, or relaxation

• Hassle-free airport transfer with professional assistance

• Smooth conclusion to your Nepal tour