7-Day Itinerary for Kathmandu, Pokhara, Lumbini, Bhaktapur in August 2023

1. Day 1: Kathmandu Durbar Square
   30 minutes (3.8 km) from Tribhuvan International Airport

   Visit the ancient palace of the Malla and Shah Kings, temples, kiosks, courtyards, and streets around the square. Take photos with the living goddess Kumari, enjoy the street foods, and buy unique souvenirs from the local shops.

2. Day 2: Swayambhunath Stupa
   20 minutes (5.6 km) from Kathmandu Durbar Square

   Also known as the Monkey Temple, Swayambhunath is a Buddhist shrine with a golden spire, white dome, and painted eyes of Buddha. Visit the monasteries, butter lamp houses, shrines, and prayer wheels. Watch the sunset over the Kathmandu Valley.

3. Day 3: Pokhara Lakeside
   25 minutes (6.7 km) from Pokhara International Airport

   Relax in the scenic and serene atmosphere of Phewa Lake. Rent a boat, paddle around the island temple, and watch the paragliders landing on the hills. Enjoy the cafes, restaurants, and live music bands on the bustling Lakeside street.

4. Day 4: World Peace Pagoda
   30 minutes (12.2 km) from Pokhara Lakeside

   Take a taxi or hike up to the white stupa on the Anadu Hill, built by the Japanese monks and offering panoramic views of the Pokhara Valley, the Himalayas, and the Fewa Lake. Meditate, picnic, and watch the sunsets.

5. Day 5: Lumbini Sacred Area
   45 minutes (26.5 km) from Gautam Buddha International Airport

   Visit the birthplace of Gautam Buddha, the founder of Buddhism, and explore the Maya Devi Temple, the Ashoka Pillar, the sacred pond, and the monasteries built by the Mahayana and Theravada traditions. Attend the prayer sessions and cultural shows.

6. Day 6: Bhaktapur Durbar Square
   35 minutes (13.2 km) from Tribhuvan International Airport

   Discover the artistic and architectural marvels of the ancient city of Bhaktapur, including the Palace of 55 Windows, the Golden Gate, the Lion's Gate, and the Nyatapola Temple. Try the Juju Dhau (King's Yogurt) and the pottery making.

7. Day 7: Pashupatinath Temple
   20 minutes (5.6 km) from Tribhuvan International Airport

   Visit the holy temple of Lord Shiva, the god of destruction, and witness the cremation ceremony on the banks of the Bagmati River. Observe the rituals, offerings, and sadhus (holy men) meditating on the grounds. Take a stroll in the adjacent forests and parks.

Recommendations

Don't miss the Boudhanath Stupa, the Patan Durbar Square, the Chitwan National Park, or the Everest Mountain Flight. Consider taking a day trip to Nagarkot or Dhulikhel for stunning sunrise and sunset views. Hire a local guide or join a cultural tour to learn more about the history, religion, and customs of Nepal.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Kathmandu Durbar Square (2 hours, INR 100)
• Swayambhunath Stupa (2 hours, INR 200)
• Pokhara Lakeside (3 hours, INR 500)
• World Peace Pagoda (4 hours, INR 800)
• Lumbini Sacred Area (5 hours, INR 1000)
• Bhaktapur Durbar Square (3 hours, INR 400)
• Pashupatinath Temple (2 hours, INR 100)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 3100

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