Kathmandu and Chitwan Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Kathmandu City Tour

Morning: Arrive in Kathmandu and settle into your accommodation. Start your day with a visit to Pashupatinath Temple, a sacred Hindu site overlooking the Bagmati River.

Afternoon: Explore Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest spherical stupas in Nepal, great for experiencing Tibetan culture. Later, visit Patan Durbar Square, known for its Newar architecture and rich history.

Evening: Enjoy a traditional Nepali dinner in Thamel, Kathmandu’s popular tourist district, with live cultural performances available at some venues.

Day 2: Kathmandu to Chitwan National Park

Morning: Travel from Kathmandu to Chitwan National Park by road (approximately 5-6 hours). Upon arrival, check into your jungle lodge and relax amidst nature.

Afternoon: Begin with a guided visit to the Tharu Village to learn about the indigenous community and their culture. This offers a unique insight into local traditions and crafts.

Evening: Attend a Tharu cultural dance program at your lodge, providing an entertaining and immersive experience into local folk art and music.

Day 3: Chitwan Wildlife Safari

Morning: Embark on an early morning Jeep or elephant safari in Chitwan National Park to spot wildlife including rhinos, deer, wild boar, and if lucky, Bengal tigers.

Afternoon: Enjoy a canoe ride on the Rapti River, a perfect opportunity for bird watching and spotting crocodiles in their natural habitat.

Evening: Relax at your lodge or participate in a nature walk while enjoying the tranquil sounds of the forest.

Day 4: Return to Kathmandu and Departure

Morning: After breakfast, depart from Chitwan back to Kathmandu by road. Use this time to soak in the scenic countryside views en route.

Afternoon: Depending on your flight schedule, take the opportunity for last-minute shopping in Thamel or visit the Kathmandu Durbar Square for final sightseeing.

Evening: Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight, concluding your trip to Kathmandu and Chitwan.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Pashupatinath Temple: 2 hours, Free
• Boudhanath Stupa: 1.5 hours, Entry Fee approx. $3
• Patan Durbar Square: 2 hours, Entry Fee approx. $15
• Road Travel Kathmandu to Chitwan (one way): 5-6 hours, Approx. $30 per person
• Tharu Village Visit: 1.5 hours, Included in lodge tour
• Tharu Cultural Dance Program: 1 hour, Approx. $10
• Jeep/Elephant Safari: 3 hours, Approx. $50
• Canoe Ride on Rapti River: 1 hour, Approx. $10
• Kathmandu Durbar Square: 2 hours, Entry Fee approx. $10
• Meals and Miscellaneous: Approx. $40 per day
• Total Estimated Cost: $245

Tips

If you wish to extend the trip, consider adding a day in Kathmandu to explore the nearby mountain villages or take a day hike to Nagarkot for panoramic Himalayan views. To shorten the trip, you could focus solely on Kathmandu, dedicating two full days to temples, squares, and cultural experiences, skipping Chitwan and its safaris. Be sure to book your transportation and accommodations ahead during peak tourist seasons to secure better rates and availability.