Epic 10-Day Nepal Adventure: Kathmandu, Pokhara, Mardi Himal Trek & Hidden Gems from Dec 27 2025‑Jan 4 2026

Viewed by 52 travelers
Kathmandu

Day 1: Arrival & Evening Stroll in Kathmandu

Morning:

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, where a friendly driver will escort you to your hotel in Thamel and help with luggage check‑in.

Afternoon:

Take some time to unwind, enjoy a light lunch, and explore the bustling streets of Thamel, soaking up the vibrant cafés and shops.

Evening:

Stroll to the tranquil Garden of Dreams for a peaceful walk among fountains, then dine at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city lights.

Book a Hotel
Kathmandu

Day 2: Kathmandu Cultural Immersion – Durbar Square, Swayambhunath

Morning:

Visit Kathmandu Durbar Square, marveling at the ancient palaces, the Taleju Temple and the iconic Kumari statue.

Afternoon:

Head up to Swayambhunath Stupa (the Monkey Temple) for sweeping city views and to admire its golden spire and intricate mandala.

Evening:

Enjoy a traditional Nepali dinner at a local dhaba followed by a cultural dance show in the Thamel area.

Book a Hotel
Pokhara

Day 3: Scenic Transfer to Pokhara

Morning:

Embark on a scenic 6‑hour drive through terraced hillsides to Pokhara, with photo stops at local villages.

Afternoon:

Check into a lakeside hotel, then wander the Pokhara Lakeside promenade, savoring views of Phewa Lake and the surrounding mountains.

Evening:

Relax with dinner at a lakeside restaurant, trying fresh trout and Nepali staples while the sunset reflects on the water.

Book a Hotel
Pokhara

Day 4: Pokhara Lakeside Relaxation & Sarangkot Sunrise Trek

Morning:

Rise before dawn for a short trek to Sarangkot; watch the sunrise paint the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges in gold.

Afternoon:

Return to Pokhara for a leisurely boat ride on Phewa Lake, visiting the Barahi Temple situated on an island.

Evening:

Free time to explore Lakeside cafés, enjoy a massage, or simply watch the lanterns glow over the lake.

Book a Hotel
Mardi Himal

Day 5: Short Mardi Himal Base‑Camp Trek – Day 1

Morning:

Drive to Kande, the trailhead, and begin the ascent through rhododendron forest toward Mardi Himal Base Camp.

Afternoon:

Continue trekking, passing charming tea houses and enjoying alpine meadows; reach the base camp by late afternoon.

Evening:

Set up camp, share stories around a campfire, and savor a simple trekkers’ dinner under the stars.

Book a Hotel
Pokhara

Day 6: Mardi Himal Trek – Return to Pokhara

Morning:

Descend from Mardi Himal Base Camp back to Kande, taking a different route for fresh scenery.

Afternoon:

Transfer to Pokhara, where you can unwind with a hot shower and a nap or a gentle walk along the lake.

Evening:

Optional evening spa treatment or a relaxed dinner at your hotel’s garden terrace.

Book a Hotel
Chitwan

Day 7: Journey to Chitwan National Park

Morning:

Travel by road to Chitwan National Park, arriving at a jungle lodge nestled in the rainforest.

Afternoon:

Enjoy a peaceful canoe ride on the Rapti River, spotting crocodiles and waterbirds, followed by a visit to the elephant breeding centre.

Evening:

Experience a vibrant Tharu cultural program with folk dances, drum performances and a dinner of local specialties.

Book a Hotel
Chitwan

Day 8: Chitwan Jungle Safari & Elephant Encounter

Morning:

Embark on a guided jeep safari deep into the park to search for one‑horned rhinos, sambar deer and perhaps a Bengal tiger.

Afternoon:

Ride atop a trained elephant to a high viewpoint for panoramic forest vistas, then visit a nearby Tharu village to learn traditional crafts.

Evening:

Relax with a campfire dinner, share wildlife stories, and enjoy a night‑time wildlife walk for nocturnal sightings.

Book a Hotel
Bandipur

Day 9: Explore the Charming Hill Town of Bandipur

Morning:

Drive to the preserved hill town of Bandipur; begin with a stroll through the main bazaar and a visit to Bindabasini Temple.

Afternoon:

Hike up to the Thani Mai viewpoint for sweeping vistas of the Himalayas and the valley below, then browse local handicraft shops.

Evening:

Watch the sunset from the hilltop, dine on freshly prepared Newari cuisine, and stay overnight in a heritage guesthouse.

Book a Hotel
Kathmandu

Day 10: Return to Kathmandu & Departure

Morning:

Depart Bandipur and stop at Bhaktapur Durbar Square to admire the medieval architecture, 55‑Window Palace and pottery square.

Afternoon:

Return to Kathmandu, enjoy last‑minute shopping in Thamel for souvenirs, and have a light lunch.

Evening:

Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight, carrying memories of Nepal’s culture and wilderness.

Book a Hotel

Estimated Costs (per person)

Place / ActivityCost
ThamelFree (optional shopping $10‑$30)
Garden of Dreams$2
Kathmandu Durbar Square$10
Swayambhunath Stupa$5 (donation)
Phewa Lake$10 (boat rental)
Sarangkot Sunrise TrekFree (guide $15 optional)
Barahi TempleFree
Kande TrailheadFree
Mardi Himal Base CampFree (camping fees $10 per night)
Chitwan National Park$40 (entry and permits)
Rapti River Canoe Ride$15
Elephant Breeding Centre$8
Tharu Cultural Program$5
Jungle Jeep Safari$30
Elephant Back Ride$25
Bindabasini TempleFree
Thani Mai ViewpointFree
Bhaktapur Durbar Square$10
Estimated Total (per person)$850-1100
0