11 Days in Nepal - 7 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Overview

For travelers interested in trekking, pick a route that fits your interests and desired level of difficulty. Challenge yourself on a trek to Muldai, Poon Hill and Mohare, where you’ll be rewarded with incredible views. If you’re interested in a moderate trek, consider the Lantang Valley, where you’ll be contributing to sustainable tourism that will help rebuild this region, which was hard-hit in the 2015 earthquake and subsequent landslide. 

You can also go off-the-beaten-path and away from the crowds. The unique, moderate route to Pikey Peak will treat you to one of Sir Edmund Hillary’s favorite views in all Nepal. You can also explore the Annapurnas on a moderate trek of Khopra Ridge; take the optional day-hike to the sacred waters of Kaire Lake and rest your muscles with a soak in the hot springs of Tatopani. 

Looking to combine a shorter, easier trek with more sightseeing? Check out the Lower Mustang Trek, which also takes you to sacred shrines and cultural landmarks. Or consider trekking to Ghandruk, then visiting the jungles of Chitwan National Park; you’ll have time to go on safari, relax in Pokhara and discover iconic destinations within the Kathmandu Valley. 

If hiking isn’t your thing, skip the trail and tour the incredible cultural sites in Nepal, including the places where Buddha lived and was born, cherished monasteries, and religious sites sacred to both Nepali Hindus and Buddhists. 

Itinerary #1: Muldai, Poon Hill, & Mohare Trek 

Get ready for some incredible views and off-the-beaten-path routes on this trek filled with sunrises from spectacular summits. You’ll visit popular villages like Ghorepani but will take a unique path up to the incredible Muldai Peak, with a memorable stay in a rustic teahouse. 

Before you hit the trail, make the most of two days in Kathmandu; you can stick to the city center — wandering tiny shops, visiting temples, and devouring delicious curries — explore the city by Vespa, learn cooking secrets from locals, or even spring for an epic helicopter ride to get up close and personal with Mount Everest. 

On day three, you’ll fly west to Pokhara, then will be driven to Kimche, the starting point of your trek. Your first destination on the road is Ghandruk, a Gurung village filled with local history and traditional stone slab architecture. The next day, you’ll trek through dense rhododendron forest en route to Tadapani, which is home to a community of friendly Tibetans. 

You’ll veer away from the crowds the next day when you take a unique route through small villages and lush forests, then through pastoral grazing land and a Gurung temple en route to Dobato; if you still have energy, end the day summitting the magnificent Muldai Peak. Otherwise, spend the night in a rustic teahouse, then head out before dawn the next morning to watch the sunrise from the stunning viewpoint. 

Trek back down the mountain to Ghorepani, where another pre-dawn hike will reward you with a phenomenal sunrise from the celebrated Poon Hill. Walk on through forests and fragrant Lokta bushes, through a smattering of villages, to Malaj, where you’ll end your trek. Spend a day recuperating — or enjoying a happy hour at cocktail — on the waters of Phewa Lake in Pokhara before flying back to Kathmandu for your departure. Learn more

Itinerary #2: Langtang Trek

This trek in the gorgeous Langtang Valley is a fantastic opportunity for travelers interested in combining an incredible trek with conscious, sustainable tourism. This trail recently reopened after a period of rehabilitation from the devastating 2015 earthquake and landslide; your journey here will help support local communities committed to preserving their cultures and rebuilding their homeland. 

Ease into life in Nepal with two days in its capital. There are a number of ways to explore the Kathmandu Valley; visit temples and the valley’s sacred sites, walk windy alleyways, or fly along the Himalaya! 

On day three, you’ll take an awe-inspiring road trip through the Kathmandu Valley, through the charming town of Trishuli and the gorgeous Langtang National Park, to the small town of Syabru Besi. Rest up before starting your trek the next morning. You’ll head first across the lush and wild Bhote Kosi river, which flows from Tibet. You’ll pass yak and hike through magnificent oak and rhododendron forests to the tiny village of Mundu, which is rebuilding after earthquake damage devastated the area. 

You’ll spend day six trekking out to Kyangjin Gompa, a small, beautiful monastery. Grab some picnic supplies at the nearby cheese factory and enjoy a lunch al fresco, with magnificent views. The next day, rest and explore the area: consider hiking up the moraine to see the phenomenal ice faces and spectacular glaciers of Langtang Lirung. Or opt for a day hike out to Kyangji Ri, whose peak will reward you with incredible panoramic vistas of the Himalaya. If you’re feeling particularly inspired, you can even take a helicopter from the mountain and enjoy incredible aerial views. 

Hit the road for two more days on the trail as you trek back to Syabru Besi, taking in the incredible mountains, lush forests, and budding communities along the way. On day ten, you’ll say goodbye to the valley as you drive back to Kathmandu. Take your final night in the capital to celebrate your trek with a dinner at a delicious eatery or wander around the windy streets near Kathmandu Durbar Square. The next morning after breakfast, you’ll head to the airport for your flight home or onto your next adventure. Learn more

Itinerary #3: Pikey Peak Trek

This trip plan is perfect for the traveler looking to explore Nepal on a moderate route. Bookended with time in Kathmandu, this itinerary takes you from Dhap to Pikey Peak, where you’ll enjoy a spectacular view of the sun rising over the Himalaya. From there, you’ll head to the village of Junbesi, stopping at a storied Tibetan Buddhist monastery. End your trek in the lively Phaplu before heading back to Kathmandu to round out your journey. 

Your adventure begins with two days in Kathmandu, where you can get lost in a matrix of alleyways, visit temples, and enjoy delicious Nepalese and western cuisine. Explore the Kathmandu Valley at your pace, in whatever style you choose.

On day three, a driver will usher you (via private 4x4) to Dhap, passing through subtropical pine and rhododendron forests, countryside villages, and spectacular scenery along the way. You’ll head out on the trail the next morning, trekking to the tiny but scenic village of Jhapre. Rest and recharge in local tea houses or gaze at the unforgettable views of the valley below you and Everest beyond. 

From Jhapre, you’ll trek through more villages and along mani walls until you reach Pikey Base Camp. Get plenty of rest because you’ll be back on the trail before dawn the next day, where you’ll be treated to extraordinary views of the sun rising over the Himalaya from your perch on Pikey’s summit. After, you’ll head back down the mountain, stopping at the charming village of Junbesi for the night. 

Take a break from the trail on day seven with a visit to Thupten Chholing, a Tibetan Buddhist monastery founded in the 19th century; spend some time meditating with the local nuns and monks. The next day, you’ll be treated to incredible views of Mt. Everest, Thamserku, and Kusum Kangaru en route to the beautiful village of Takasindu. Your trek ends the next day when you reach Phaplu, a scenic village and trekker hub; stretch your legs as you wander through town or visit the local shops, cafés, and restaurants.

On day ten, you’ll head back to Kathmandu, where you can spend the day relaxing or visiting any sites you may have missed at the beginning of your trip. Enjoy one final dinner in the city and perhaps a view of the sunset from Boudhanath stupa before turning in; you’ll head to the airport the next morning after breakfast. Learn more

Itinerary #4: Khopra Danda Trek

If you’re interested in a moderate trek that’s off-the-beaten-path, consider this itinerary, which will take you around the Khopra Ridge. You’ll be treated to a bevy of varied, beautiful landscapes (local villages, terraced farmland, and dense bamboo, oak, pine, and rhododendron forests) against the backdrop of the Annapurnas. You’ll also visit sites sacred to Nepalese Hindus and Buddhists, both in Kathmandu and on the trail. 

Before you head into the mountains, you’ll have about two days to explore Kathmandu and its environs. Take the first day to get to know the buzzing city; the next day, head out on a guided tour of a trio of sacred sites: Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, and Patan Durbar Square.

On day three, you’ll fly to Pokhara, then will be driven to Kimche to begin your trek. You’ll first trek through Ghandruk, a beautiful Gurung village, then will hike an undulating trail with great mountain views en route to Tadapani. The next morning, you’ll traverse truly incredible terrain reminiscent of a Tolkein fantasy: think tiny villages, ancient trees, and lush flora and fauna. Pass shepherds and a Gurung temple en route to Dobato, where you can either rest for the night or press on to summit Muldai Peak. 

If you haven’t yet summited Muldai, you’ll head out before dawn, in time to watch the sunrise from the top of the mountain. Then you’ll spend the day descending through forests and pastures to Upper Chistibung, a temporary herder’s settlement, for the night. On day six, you’ll climb above the treeline to Khopra, where you can take in incredible views of the snow-capped peaks of Mount Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Annapurna South in the distance. 

You can sleep in and bliss out in the village on day seven, or search for spirituality on a full-day hike to the waters of Kaire Lake. Local Hindus considered the lake sacred and believe that bathing in Kaire’s waters will help you attain Nirvana. The next morning, it’s back on the trail as you hike down into the valley; you’ll pass through Paudwar to your final stop: Tatopani, home to natural hot springs where you can soak, rejuvenate, and reflect on your amazing accomplishment. 

The next morning, you’ll be driven in a private jeep back to Pokhara, where you can relax by Phewa Lake for the day or visit the city’s coffee shops. On day ten, you’ll fly back to Kathmandu, where you can enjoy the rest of the afternoon and evening at your pace. Stroll winding alleyways in search of souvenirs, tuck into a delicious meal or pause to reflect at a local temple as you round out your trip. After a final breakfast in Nepal the next morning, you’ll head to the airport for home or your next adventure. Learn more

Itinerary #5: Lower Mustang Trek

If you’re interested in combining an easier hike at a lower elevation with time to explore sacred sites and Nepal’s cities, consider this trip plan in the Lower Mustang region. The altitudes on the route are not as high as on other treks, plus you’ll fly from Pokhara to Jomsom, maximizing time. You’ll also break up trekking with a day trip to a sacred shrine in Muktinath and can rest and sightsee in city centers like Pokhara and Kathmandu. 

You’ll spend the first four days of your adventure exploring urban jungles, lakeside coffee shops, and cultural heritage sites. Get to know Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu, then take a private guided tour of three sacred landmarks: Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, and Patan Durbar Square. On day three, you’ll fly to the blissful lakeside city of Pokhara, on the banks of the gorgeous Phewa Lake. You can have fun in the water, relax at a coffee shop, or explore the city, which is home to a large community of expats and fellow adventurers. 

The next day you’ll fly to Jomsom, the headquarters of Nepal's Mustang district. Spend the day adjusting to the altitude and cool, arid climate. You can also walk down into the Kali Gandaki Valley to learn about the Thakali people, taste their local apple brandy, and discover the community’s traditional design principles. Your trek begins the next morning when you’ll trek north for four hours to Kagbeni, an oasis of green fields amidst rocky, mountainous terrain. Be sure to visit the ancient King’s Palace and the 800-year-old Gompa before turning in for the night. 

On day six, you’ll trek uphill to Jharkot, an old fortified village that features a 500-year-old monastery. Take in the stunning views of the valley below and mountains beyond as the sun sets in the distance. Keep the chill vibes going the next day, when you trade trekking for sightseeing; you’ll tour Muktinath, a beautiful, revered pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. 

The next morning, you’ll hit the trail for the last time, as you descend back to Jomsom. En route, you’ll be treated to stunning views and will stop at a monastery devoted to Bonpo, a pre-Buddhist animist religion. In Jomson, relax and, if you didn’t already, wander around the village, making sure to celebrate the end of your trek. 

On day nine, you’ll fly back to Pokhara, where you can rejuvenate by the waters of Phewa Lake, restore your muscles in a yoga class, or enjoy local fare in one of the city’s lovely eateries. The next day, you’ll fly back to Kathmandu, where you can explore the capital in any number of ways (this list has plenty of inspiration) or simply take it easy with a walk around Kathmandu Durbar Square. Enjoy a final breakfast in the city, then head to the airport for your flight home. Learn more

Itinerary #6: Ghandruk & Chitwan

This trip plan has a bit of everything — a four-day, low elevation trek in the Annapurnas, some time in Kathmandu and Pokhara, and a few days in the jungles of Chitwan National Park, where you can go on safari or visit an elephant camp. You’ll see cultural and religious landmarks, hit the popular trail to Ghandruk, and you may even spot a tiger or two!

Spend your first two days in Kathmandu acclimating to the elevation and getting a feel for the city and Nepali culture. On day three, you’ll head to Pokhara, where you’ll start your trek, walking through forests of magnolia, pine, oak, and rhododendron, as well as through Gurung villages. Along the way, you’ll see traditional architecture, terraced rice fields, kind locals, exotic birds, and delicate orchids. 

You’ll climb a ridgetop trail, with stunning views of the giant mountains and the lush valley, before reaching Ghandruk, one of the largest Gurung villages in western Nepal. Your trail ultimately ends in Nayapul, where you’ll meet a private jeep for your transfer to Pokhara. Spend the rest of the day relaxing along the banks of Phewa Lake or stretch out in a yoga class before resting for the night. 

On day seven, you’ll head to the wilds of Chitwan National Park, where you’ll have two days to discover the jungle by jeep safari, river safari, or other tours led by expert naturalists. Set out on a sunset game drive and look for Royal Bengal Tigers or feed some pachyderms in an elephant preserve. You’ll fly back to Kathmandu on day nine, and will travel to Namobuddha, a small village home to Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery, a site sacred to Tamang Buddhists. 

You’ll spend your final full day in the village of Panuati, then will tour the beautifully preserved medieval city-state of Bhaktapur, also known as the “City of Devotees.” Here you’ll discover Newari history, art, and culture, as well as the magnificent temples and shrines sacred to Tibetan Buddhists. Enjoy one last breakfast in Nepal before departing from Kathmandu the following day. Learn more

Itinerary #7: Nepal's Cultural Highlights

This trip plan is perfect for travelers who love history, culture and being students of the world. You’ll explore the Kathmandu Valley through the lens of Hinduism and Buddhism, Nepal’s two biggest religions, and will head further afield to visit temples, palaces, and sacred sites — including the residence and birthplace of Prince Siddhartha Gautam, the Buddha. You’ll also have some fun in the lakeside city of Pokhara, the perfect place to try paragliding if you’re so inclined!

Your cultural adventure begins in Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital, where you’ll spend your first two days learning about the city center and gaining a cultural foundation. You’ll learn about Hinduism and Buddhism, the two biggest religions here, thanks to a tour of sites sacred to each. Visit Boudhanath Stupa — the holiest Tibetan Buddhist site outside of Tibet — and Pashupatinath Temple, considered the most sacred Hindu site in Nepal. 

You’ll head out of the city on day three when you’ll glide up a scenic cable car to Manakamana temple, a Hindu site where the Goddess Manakamana is said to grant wishes to those who make the pilgrimage here to worship her. As you make your way to the structure, you’ll dangle above the earth with exquisite views of terraced rice fields and the Trishuli River below, as well as glimpses of Annapurna Himal beyond. 

The next day, it’s off to the Nepalese plains for a stop at Lumbini, where Siddartha Gautam was born in 623 BCE. This is a fantastic place to learn about Buddhism around the globe; wander this UNESCO World Heritage Site, its monasteries and international monuments, and the World Peace Pagoda and Park. After, visit the ruins of the ancient city of Kapilvastu in Tilaurakot, which served as the center of the Shakya kingdom and Buddha’s home. 

On day seven, you’ll stop through Tansen, home to the famed 19th century neoclassical Ranighat Palace, en route to the charming city of Pokhara, located on the banks of the stunning Phewa Lake. Wander the eclectic town, pop into funky stores, take a yoga class, or spend time on the water. The lake is one of the best places on the planet to try paragliding, but you can also skim the water on kayak or paddleboat. 

You’ll fly back to Kathmandu on day nine, when you head to the storied city of Patan, famed for its traditional crafts, religious arts, and magnificent heritage buildings. Walk around the fascinating Durbar Square, where you’ll see terracotta creations drying in the sun, and can see outstanding examples of traditional wood and stone carving. Enjoy a delicious final dinner in this charming town, then spend the night here before heading off to the airport in the morning for your departure. Learn more

More Great 11-Day Nepal Itineraries

Looking for more inspiration for your Nepal trip? Check out these other 11-day Nepal itineraries, ranging from active, to cultural, to luxury, or family-friendly trips.

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