13 Days in Nepal - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Itinerary #1: Best of Nepal: Ghandruk, Seti River, and Chitwan

Make the most of two weeks in Nepal with this trip plan that includes an exploration of the gems of the Kathmandu Valley, time in the lakeside splendor of Pokhara, a fantastic trek in the Annapurna region of the Himalaya, river rafting, and three days in the wilds of Chitwan National Park’s jungles. You’ll spend a day with elephants, sleep in a mountaintop town sacred to Buddhists, and will discover Nepal’s incredible culture, history, and people. 

You’ll have two days in Kathmandu at the top of your itinerary; watch the sunset from your perch at Boudhanath Stupa, then enjoy a private, guided tour of three special sites in the Kathmandu Valley: Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, and Patan Durbar Square. The next morning you’ll fly to Pokhara, then transfer to Lumle, where you’ll begin your trek through the Annapurnas. Enjoy fantastic views of snow-capped peaks and spend the afternoon exploring the villages of Tanchowk, Patlekhet, and Majgaon, where you’ll stay overnight.

The next morning, enjoy a hearty breakfast, taking in stunning mountain views, then hike through rhododendron forests and Gurung villages en route to Landruk, the highest point of your trek. Learn about local life in this region before heading back down the mountain to Ghandruk — one of the largest Gurung settlements in the region — the following day. If time permits, spend some time in the headquarters of the nearby Annapurna Mountain Conservation Area Project (ACAP), Nepal’s first established and largest conservation.

You’ll end your trek on day seven with a nice downhill from Ghandruk to Kimche, where you’ll be picked up and driven to Pokhara, Nepal’s second-largest city. Situated on the banks of stunning Phewa Lake, Pokhara is the perfect place to unwind with a cocktail as you overlook the water, with the Himalaya just beyond in the distance. Explore the town’s eclectic shops and funky coffeehouses, stretch out in a yoga class, or kayak around the lake before enjoying a celebratory dinner. 

Adventure awaits the next morning when you head to Damauli for a fun day on the Lower Seti River; relax for a few hours as you drift down the calm waters, taking in views of Annapurna Massif, enjoy a picnic on the riverbank, and tackle a couple of sets of Grade II rapids. Tonight you can either camp in a basic tent or treat yourself to luxury in a safari-style glamping set up, with comfy amenities. 

It’s back on the water the next morning when you’ll navigate five class II rapids, then will gently glide to Gaighat; from here you’ll be chauffeured to your jungle lodge in Chitwan National Park. Enjoy lunch, explore the grounds, and relax over a delicious dinner as nature showcases its exotic symphony all around. Get to know the local flora and fauna the next day as you safari — by foot, jeep, or even boat — and learn about the ecosystem and animals with the help of an expert naturalist. On day ten you’ll get up close and personal with a herd of local elephants; walk with the majestic creatures into the grasslands beside the river, then spend the rest of the day (and night) at Tiger Tops Elephant Camp; you’ll help mahouts feed and care for the pachyderms, take a guided jungle walk with the herd, and will hear the trumpeting sounds of your new friends as you enjoy your dinner. 

On day eleven, you’ll head back to Kathmandu, where you can wander windy streets near Kathmandu Durbar Square or visit a temple; in the afternoon you’ll head up to the hilltop city of Namo Buddha, which is sacred to Buddhists and the local Tamang community. Enjoy stunning views of the sunset from your perch on the mountain and spend the night in this serene enclave. In the morning you’ll visit the Tamang village of Panauti as well as the nearby Namobuddha stupa, which commemorates the location where Siddhartha Gautam selflessly sacrificed his physical body to a starving tigress, an act that contributed to his ultimate enlightenment and ascension to Buddha-hood. 

You’ll spend the remainder of your final day in the ancient city of Bhaktapur, where local artisans and craftspeople carry-on the phenomenal traditions of their forebearers. Enjoy your last night in Nepal here, in a quaint traditional-style guest house; savor the sunset over this timeless city and unwind over a lovely dinner. After breakfast the next morning, you’ll head to the airport for your flight home or onto your next adventure. Learn more

Itinerary #2: Khopra Danda Trek

Head off-the-beaten-path on this trip plan, which features a stunning (and moderate!) 9-day trek to Khopra Danda, also known as the Khopra Ridge. This peaceful route takes you away from the crowds of more popular trails; you’ll hike through rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and friendly Gurung villages. Pass waterfalls, summit the extraordinary Muldai Peak and enjoy fantastic views of the Himalaya along the way. You’ll also have time to explore the Kathmandu Valley and the lakeside charm of Pokhara. 

You’ll start with two days in the Kathmandu Valley, which you can explore however you like. Lose yourself in the bustling matrix of alleyways and vendors off Kathmandu Durbar Square, visit Hindu and Buddhist temples, or wander through the charm of Thamel, the capital’s tourist hub. There are myriad ways to see Kathmandu and its ancient enclaves; this article has some great ideas for every kind of traveler. In the evenings, relax at one of the city’s wonderful eateries or talk to your specialist about dining in the home of a local family. 

On day three, you’ll take a spectacular (albeit short) flight over the Kathmandu Valley and the Himalaya’s snow-capped peaks to Pokhara; you’ll then be driven to Kimche, where you’ll start your trek. Today’s ultimate destination is Ghandruk, the “Switzerland of Nepal;” here you’ll find a bustling ethnic Gurung community, traditional stone slab houses, and views of Annapurna range, Glacier Dome, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). The next morning, you’ll trek through rhododendron forests to the friendly village of Tadapani, and will press on the next day into a more remote area of the Annapurna region, where you’ll pass through verdant forests filled with ancient trees, beautiful villages, and fairytale-like landscapes. 

You’ll have a steady but worthwhile climb today, and will stop through a series of beautiful hilltop villages, then down to a creek bed until you reach Dobato. If you have the energy to burn, finish your day strong to summit the stunning Muldai Peak; otherwise, relax at the traditional teahouse and make the climb to the outstanding viewpoint early the next morning so you can catch a magnificent panorama of the Himalaya at dawn. Of course, if you’re feeling inspired, you can do both! Later in the morning, you’ll head to Upper Chistibung, a temporary herder’s settlement where you’ll relax for the rest of the day. 

On day seven, you’ll trek through alpine meadows and verdant pastures as you ascend to Khopra Danda; rest in the village the next day, taking in the fantastic views, or challenge yourself on a rewarding full-day hike to Kaire Lake, whose sacred waters are said to aid in reaching Nirvana. You’ll hit the trail again on day nine; walk through terraced fields and charming villages en route to Swanta, which is surrounded by a variety of stunning flora and fauna. The next morning you’ll descend through village fields, then will cross a suspension bridge and head uphill to Chittre and onto Ghorepani; continue downhill to Ulleri, a village popular with trekkers and fellow adventurers. 

You’ll end your trek the next morning when you reach Nayapul, where you’ll be picked up and taken to Pokhara, a charming city on the banks of the beautiful Phewa Lake. Relax by the water, wander the town and its shops, relieve your muscles in a yoga class, or tuck into a great meal to celebrate your time on the trail. Sleep in or head back out to the lake or the city’s funky shops in the morning before catching your flight back to Kathmandu. Enjoy your final afternoon and evening however you like; take a unique tour of the city, do some last-minute sight-seeing or souvenir shopping, or simply relax at your hotel. The next morning, you’ll have time to enjoy a final breakfast before you head to the airport for your flight home. Learn more

Itinerary #3: Pikey Peak to Lukla Trek

Head away from the crowds on this trip plan, which takes you on an 8-day trek through the Lower Everest region. This unique itinerary includes time in Kathmandu and the valley beyond, stops through tiny villages, and an unforgettable view from the top of Pikey Peak. You’ll also visit a Tibetan monastery, where you can meditate with the resident nuns and monks and soak up the serenity of the Himalaya. 

Before you hit the trail, make the most of your time in the Kathmandu Valley and Nepal’s capital city. Thamel, the tourist hub, is a great place to start your urban exploration; there are plenty of great dining options and shops here. You’ll also enjoy a full-day guided tour of three heritage sites — Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, and Patan Durbar Square — before you head out into the countryside for your trek. 

Getting off-the-beaten-path to start your adventure involves an epic road trip in a private 4x4 vehicle. You’ll spend much of day three driving through Nepal, passing stunning rivers, stopping in a charming village for lunch, passing through subtropical pine and rhododendron forests en route to Dhap Bazaar. Take the rest of the afternoon to unwind and explore this quaint rural community and its friendly villagers. In the morning, you’ll start your trek, heading first to Jhapre, a tiny hilltop village with nice views of Everest’s snow-capped peak. 

The next day’s uphill climb is a gentle one and filled with pine, rhododendron, and more local villages. Enjoy spectacular views of the Himalaya, pass a traditional mani wall, then finish strong with an ascent to Pikey Peak Basecamp; you can reward yourself with some samples from the local yak cheese factory! You’ll start early the next morning so you can enjoy the epic sunrise view from atop Pikey Peak: your unobstructed panorama features numerous Himalaya peaks, including Everest, Khatang, Karyoling, Kanchenjunga, Dhaulagiri, and Langtang. If you’re floored by the view, know that you’re in good company: this was Sir Edmond Hillary’s favorite viewpoint in Nepal. 

The rest of the day takes you downhill, through more gorgeous landscapes and villages, past mani walls and stone stupas, to Junbesi; here you’ll find an old monastery under the watchful gaze of the incredible Numbur Chuli peak above. On day seven, you can either rest in the village or hike along the Junbesi Khola to Thupten Chholing Monastery, where you can meditate with the resident Tibetan Buddhist nuns and monks before heading back down to town for dinner. 

In the morning you’ll return to the trail, crossing over the river and along the ridge until you reach Takasindu; head to the monastery just below the pass for phenomenal views at sunset (and sunrise tomorrow if you like). The next day you’ll pass through Sherpa and Rai villages as you descend to the Dudh Koshi River, ending at Kharikhola, where you’ll spend the night. More spectacular scenery greets you on day ten, as you climb to Khari La Pass, where you’ll enjoy incredible views of peaks like Cho-Oyu en route to Puiyan. 

You’ll end your trek the next morning when you arrive at Lukla; relax and wander around the village in the afternoon, then treat yourself to a delicious dinner. In the morning, you’ll head to Lukla’s famous mountain airport for your flight back to Kathmandu; take the rest of the day to rest or hit the streets to see anything you may have missed at the beginning of your trip. Catch one final Nepali sunset from Boudhanath Stupa before enjoying a great meal, perhaps in Thamel. In the morning, you’ll have time for one last breakfast in the city or at your hotel before your flight home. Learn more

Itinerary #4: Luxury Annapurna Panorama Trek & Jungle Safari

If you’re interested in a multifaceted tour through Nepal in style, this trip plan is a fantastic blend of adventure, cultural discovery, and deluxe accommodations. You’ll explore the Kathmandu Valley, then head to the Annapurna region for a brief trek. After, you’ll spend some time in the charming city of Pokhara before traveling to the wilds of Chitwan National Park for a few days in the jungle.

Start your deluxe vacation with some time in Kathmandu and its nearby attractions; there are myriad wonderful eateries in the city and a bevy of beautiful religious sites and temples to explore. You’ll also be chauffeured by private car for a guided tour of three incredible UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Kathmandu Valley — Patan, Boudhanath Stupa (a sacred Buddhist site), and Pashupatinath (a revered Hindu temple). 

On day three, you’ll fly to Pokhara, then will be driven to the township of Hemja, where you’ll begin your trek; you’ll head first to Astam, a gorgeous village perched on a stunning hilltop. You’ll spend tonight — and every other night on the trail — at a luxury resort; soak in the Japanese-style public bath on the grounds before tucking into a delicious organic farm-to-table dinner. The next day you’ll hike to Dhampus, a traditional Gurung village with magnificent views of the Annapurna region of the Himalaya. 

Enjoy a wonderful breakfast in the morning and bask in the fantastic mountain scenery, then hit the trail through traditional villages and forests dotted with tree orchids, rhododendrons, and magnolias to Majgaon, where you’ll spend the night. The next day you’ll trek through terraced fields, verdant forest, and another small Gurung village en route to Landruk; your final day on the trail will take you to Ghandruk, the largest Gurung settlement in the region. Here you’ll celebrate the end of your trek with a cup of Nepali tea as you learn about this ethnic community’s unique dialect, culture, and traditions.

You’ll be picked up in Ghandruk and driven to Pokhara, a charming city located on the banks of the stunning Phewa Lake. You can stretch out after your trek in a yoga class or unwind with a drink at happy hour as you look out onto the water and the snow-capped peaks of the Himalaya beyond. After breakfast the next morning, you’ll enjoy a leisurely boat ride out on the lake, followed by a hike up to the World Peace Pagoda, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by Buddhist monks from the Japanese Nipponzan Myohoji Order. Then it’s onto a nearby waterfall and Gupteswor Cave, whose chambers and temple you can explore (on all fours). 

After one more relaxing night in Pokhara, you’ll fly to Chitwan National Park, where you’ll spend the next few days learning about the exotic local flora and fauna. You’ll stay first at the phenomenal Barahi Jungle Lodge, where your deluxe room includes a private balcony with jungle views. Venture into the wilds the next day on an unforgettable safari; see if you can spot a leopard, sloth bear, or the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger!

The next morning you’ll board a traditional longboat for a river safari en route to your home for the day: Tiger Tops Elephant Camp. You’ll spend the day learning about and spending time with the resort’s resident elephants and their mahouts; after, go for a swim in the garden-side pool or listen to the trumpets of the elephants as you relax in a hammock. On day twelve, you’ll fly back to Kathmandu for one final day of exploration. After you land, you'll be driven to the ancient city of Bhaktapur, where you’ll learn about gorgeous architecture, traditional crafts, and medieval art. Get up early to watch the sunrise over the Durbar Square and enjoy breakfast before you transfer to the airport for your flight home. Learn more

Itinerary #5: Kongde & Ama Dablam Luxury Trek

This trip plan includes an epic off-the-beaten-path trek to the glacier of Kongde Peak, but keeps you comfortable and traveling in style; you’ll spend your days hiking at the feet of the world’s tallest mountains and your nights relaxing in luxury accommodations on the trail: think organic food, stellar views, and cozy amenities not available in traditional teahouses. You’ll also explore the gems of Kathmandu Valley and the capital city itself.  

Spend the first two days of your trip diving into life in Kathmandu; go out for a great meal in Thamel, the tourist hubs, visit Kathmandu Durbar Square, or stroll the streets and pop into any of the myriad temples in the city. On day two, you’ll have a private guided tour of Patan, an ancient city with Newari roots. Learn about the traditional crafts here, meet local artisans, metalwork artists, thangka painters, and wood and stone carvers. 

On day three, you’ll fly to the iconic mountain airport in Lukla, and will hit the trail soon after your arrival; today is designed to be easy to help you adjust to the altitude, so take in the views of villages, local herders and their yaks, and the lush Dudh Koshi Valley en route to Phakding. Relax at your luxury lodge and enjoy a stellar sunset as you sip some Nepali tea and fall asleep to the serenity of the mountains. The next morning after breakfast, you’ll cross spectacular high suspension bridges over the Dudh Kosi River and will ascend through Sagarmatha National Park to Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital and a popular hub for trekkers. There are plenty of viewpoints with vistas of Ama Dablam, Everest and Lhotse, and a great museum about Sherpa culture worth visiting. 

On day five, choose between short trekking options to get to Tashinga: a direct, gentle route or climbing up through Khumjung, which gives you access to the spectacular Everest View Hotel, as well as a community school and medical clinic you may be able to visit. Rest up back at your deluxe lodge, then continue on the next day to Pangboche, the highest of the original permanent communities in the area. You’ll then take a day trip away from the crowds to Ama Dablam Basecamp, where you’ll have lunch as you take in phenomenal views of the incredible mountain. 

You’ll then start your descent, though down a different route than the one you used earlier in your trip; you’ll trek first to Mende, where you can visit a small monastery cropped above the village. Then you’ll travel down to Thame, home to a celebrated 16th-century gompa. Catch superb panoramas from Sambar Peak at sunset, then return to your luxury lodge for an organic dinner and some lovely wines. The next morning after breakfast, you’ll hike a new trail through rhododendron, pine, and bamboo forest to the glacier of Kongde Peak; this route was specifically created for guests of the lodge where you'll be staying tonight. Warm yourself up after at your fantastic lodge, which offers unbeatable views of Everest, Lhotse, Thamserku, and Ama Dablam.

Your final day on the trail offers gorgeous scenery; you’ll descend to Phakding, where you’ll stop for lunch, and will reach Lukla in the afternoon. However, if you’re inspired to finish your trek in a unique and thrilling way, consider boarding an early morning, helicopter ride up to Kala Pattar and soar above Everest Base Camp before landing in Lukla. Tonight you’ll unwind in your luxury lodge with a celebratory meal; in the morning you’ll fly back to Kathmandu, where you can do some last-minute sightseeing, or relax with a massage or yoga class (or both). Choose from myriad wonderful eateries for your final dinner in Nepal; in the morning, you’ll be taken to the airport after breakfast for your flight home. Learn more

Itinerary #6: Phoksundo Lake Trek

If you’re looking to explore a remote region off-the-beaten-path, consider this easy trek through the Dolpo region in western Nepal. Because this particular route has only been open for the fraction of the time as other trails, you’ll find yourself away from the crowds as you trek through villages, past stunning waterfalls, to Phoksundo Lake, whose waters are sacred to local Buddhists and Bonpo.

Start your adventure with two days in Kathmandu; you’ll have time to navigate the buzzing capital and wander the tiny alleyways off Kathmandu Durbar Square, then will enjoy a private guided tour of three heritage sites: Swayambhunath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Patan Durbar Square. On day three, you’ll west fly to Nepalgunj, a town near the wilds of Bardia National Park and the border of India. 

The next day you’ll fly to Juphal, where you’ll begin your trek through the gorgeous Dolpo region. You’ll start high above the Thulo Bheri Valley, and will pass villages and an old watermill en route to Dunai, where you’ll spend your first night in a local teahouse. You’ll press on, crossing the Bheri River and into Shey Phoksundo National Park, where you’ll hike through hemp walnut, and maple forests, as well as stunning waterfalls. 

After a night in Chhepka, you’ll climb through cedar forests, passing Nepal’s highest waterfall en route to Jharana Hotel. From there it’s onto the village of Ringmo and it’s scenic meadows where yaks graze; just beyond is your sacred destination: the beautiful Lake Phoksundo. You’ll be able to spend the next two days resting here, exploring the area and its nearby glaciers, or plunging into the lake’s cold water. 

On day ten, you’ll hit the trail on your return journey, trekking first through the village of Renje and onto Chhepka. The next morning you’ll continue retracing your steps through lush forests, fields, and charming villages to Juphal, where you’ll spend your final night in the mountains. On day twelve you’ll fly back to Kathmandu, where you can visit any sights you may have missed at the beginning of your trip. In the morning, enjoy a final breakfast, perhaps in the Thamel neighborhood, before heading to the airport for your departure. Learn more

More Great 13-Day Nepal Itineraries

Looking for more inspiration for your Nepal trip? Check out these other 13-day Nepal itineraries, ranging from active, to cultural, to luxury, or family-friendly trips.

Or, describe your ideal trip and we will connect you with a local specialist to make it happen.