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.
Who 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
Trekking
From gentle two-day village walks to our signature Annapurna Base Camp trek — matched to your fitness and time.
Culture & Heritage
UNESCO World Heritage squares, living temple culture and Newari, Tharu and hill communities across Nepal.
Wildlife
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.
Read guideReady to plan Essential Nepal: Kathmandu, Pokhara & Chitwan?
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