Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) and transfer to your hotel in Thamel; check-in and freshen up before exploring. Transfers typically take 20–45 minutes depending on traffic.
Casual, popular vegetarian-friendly café in Thamel serving Middle Eastern and South Asian breakfast; a comfortable spot to acclimatise. OR2K is generally open from 9:00am onwards.
Explore Thamel’s shops for trekking gear and souvenirs then visit Garden of Dreams (open 8:00am–6:00pm) for a peaceful colonial-era garden. Good introduction to Kathmandu’s lively streets and calm retreats.
Tasty Tibetan/Nepali dishes (momos, thukpa) popular with visitors; located in central Thamel and open midday. A practical and flavourful introduction to Himalayan cuisine.
Visit the UNESCO-listed Durbar Square to see palaces, temples and living Newar culture — note visiting hours are usually 9:00am–5:00pm and some areas may be restricted. Great for photos and local artistry.
Climb to Swayambhu for panoramic views over Kathmandu at golden hour; site is open early morning to dusk (around 6:00am–6:00pm). Expect steps and monkeys — keep belongings secure.
Experience authentic Newari and Nepali set menus in a heritage house — reservation recommended for evening dining. A cultural dinner with live classical music some nights.
Visit the important Hindu temple complex and river ghats; best early to observe morning rituals. Temple grounds generally open from around 4:00am to 8:00pm; non-Hindu areas have designated viewing points.
Light breakfast near Boudhanath to fuel the morning — many cafés around the stupa open from 7:00am. Enjoy a relaxed start before walking the stupa circumambulation.
Walk around one of the largest Tibetan stupas in the world to see Buddhist prayer flags, gompas and Tibetan culture; open from dawn to dusk. Ideal for photos and calm atmosphere.
Short drive to Patan to visit its UNESCO-listed Durbar Square and Patan Museum (museum open ~10:00am–5:00pm). A rich display of Newar art and architecture; museum entry has a small fee.
Browse spices, textiles and handicrafts in traditional market lanes; ideal for picking up authentic souvenirs. Markets are lively late morning to early evening.
Optional splurge on a multi-course traditional Nepali tasting menu at Dwarika’s (advance reservation required). A special evening to sample regional dishes in a restored palace setting.
Early transfer to the domestic terminal (check-in domestic flights at least 45–60 minutes before departure). Flight options to Pokhara start early — schedule subject to airline slots.
Scenic domestic flight of ~25–35 minutes offering Himalayan views (flight times vary; book early). Flights typically operate from early morning through late afternoon.
Hire a rowboat (available 7:00am–5:00pm) to visit the small island temple and enjoy reflections of the Annapurnas on calm days. Boats are rented hourly; negotiate price for a private rowboat.
Visit the dramatic waterfall (Davis Falls open roughly 9:00am–5:00pm) and explore the adjacent cave complex. Both are short drives from Lakeside and give a contrast to mountain views.
Learn about mountaineering history, local cultures and Himalayan ecosystems; the museum is usually open 10:00am–5:00pm. Good context before seeing the mountains up close at Sarangkot.
Choose a lively lakeside spot for dinner; Roadhouse Café serves Western and fusion dishes and is open into the evening. Enjoy relaxed dining with lake views.
Depart pre-dawn to reach Sarangkot viewpoint in time for sunrise over the Annapurna range (sunrise time varies; allow early departure). Sarangkot is free to visit but the road is steep — private car or taxi recommended.
Tandem paragliding from Sarangkot offers the best aerial views of Pokhara and the Annapurnas; operators run flights roughly from 7:00am–4:00pm depending on weather. Book in advance and allow 1–2 hours for briefing and flight.
Return to Lakeside for a relaxed lunch; try local dal bhat or international fare at one of the popular cafés near the lake. Many eateries are open through the afternoon.
Choose a gentle lakeside walk, rent a bicycle, or relax in a café; easy activities allow you to enjoy mountain reflections and local life. Boat rentals and lakeside amenities typically operate until 5:00pm.
Wander Lakeside for handicrafts, pashminas and trekking souvenirs; shops are usually open until late evening. Good time to pick up gifts while avoiding midday heat.
Enjoy a relaxed lakeside dinner with Western and Nepalese options; many restaurants offer live music some evenings. Reserve a table if you prefer a particular spot.
Drop your bags at a hotel or luggage storage and stroll Thamel for souvenirs, handicrafts and final purchases; most shops open from morning until late evening. Good opportunity to bargain politely.
Enjoy one last Nepali meal (momos or dal bhat) before your onward flight; many central restaurants operate through lunchtime. Keep time to return to hotel and collect luggage.
Allow at least 2–3 hours for international check-in depending on your flight; traffic can be unpredictable so depart early from Thamel. End of the 4-night trip — safe travels!