Nepal, a Himalayan gem between India and China, blends diverse landscapes with a rich cultural tapestry. Kathmandu, the capital, is a vibrant metropolis of ancient temples and palaces where traditional and modern life meet. Pokhara, framed by the Annapurna range, is a serene escape of picturesque lakes and mountain vistas, and the gateway to the Annapurna Circuit. This six-day journey starts and ends in Kathmandu.
Upon arrival at TIA, Kathmandu, you are transferred to your hotel. After check-in, take time to refresh from your journey.
Boudhanath is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest and most iconic stupas in the world. Surrounded by a vibrant Tibetan community, it features a massive mandala, prayer wheels and a serene atmosphere. From Boudhanath, continue to Pashupatinath. Pashupatinath is a sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with intricate architecture and cremation ghats along the Bagmati River. After sightseeing and the evening aarti on the bank of the Bagmati River, return to the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast, drive to Chandragiri, a picturesque hill station about 45 minutes from Kathmandu. A cable car ride of roughly 18 minutes carries you to the summit, with panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges including Langtang and Annapurna. The area is also home to the Chandragiri Hills Resort and the historic Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple. Enjoy time at the top to soak in the tranquil atmosphere.
Next, visit Swayambhunath. Swayambhunath, the ‘Monkey Temple’, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient hilltop stupa, hung with colourful prayer flags and watched over by the eyes of the Buddha, offers panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley. Overnight at the hotel.
After an early breakfast, begin the 201 km journey to Pokhara, which takes 8–9 hours. En route, visit Manakamana Temple. Manakamana is a revered pilgrimage site in the Gorkha district, famous for its temple dedicated to the goddess Bhagwati, who is believed to fulfil the wishes of devotees. The temple is reached by a scenic cable car with views over the surrounding hills and valleys.
On reaching Pokhara, complete hotel check-in and relax for the rest of the day. Overnight at the hotel.
Early in the morning, drive to Sarangkot, about 13 km from Lakeside in Pokhara. At 1,600 m, this vantage point looks over the city as it wakes, with the snow-capped Annapurna range, Machhapuchhre (Mt. Fishtail) and Dhaulagiri glowing in the sunrise light. After sunrise, return to the hotel for breakfast.
Bindabasini Temple is one of Pokhara’s oldest and most revered temples, set on a small hilltop in the old bazaar and dedicated to the goddess Durga, a fierce manifestation of divine feminine energy.
Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave lies opposite Devi’s Fall, and the water from the falls passes through it. A huge stalagmite inside is worshipped as a Shiva lingam. Davis Falls (Devi’s Fall), also called ‘Paatal Ko Chango’, the Underworld’s Waterfall, is one of the most visited places in Nepal.
Fewa (Phewa) Lake is a freshwater lake mirroring the Annapurna range, a favourite for boating and relaxation. Tal Barahi, the ‘Lake Temple’, sits on a small island in the middle of the lake and is reached by a short boat ride from Lakeside. It is the most important religious monument in Pokhara and represents the female force. After a full day of sightseeing, return to the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast, return to Kathmandu by the same route, about 201 km and 8–9 hours depending on road conditions. Along the way, enjoy green forests, winding roads and riverbanks. Overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast and check-out, transfer to TIA about three hours before your scheduled flight. Trip ends.
Note: All information in this itinerary is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but changes can occur due to flight schedules, traffic, weather or government policies. Journey DMC will keep you informed of any changes but cannot be held liable for alterations to the published itinerary.