Family-Friendly Itinerary for Nepal in September 2023

1. Day 1: Kathmandu Valley
   20 minutes (5 miles) from Tribhuvan International Airport

   Explore the cultural wonders of Kathmandu Valley. In the morning, visit the ancient Kathmandu Durbar Square, followed by a family-friendly lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, head to the Pashupatinath Temple and end the day with a traditional Nepali dance performance.

   • Kathmandu Durbar Square: Entrance Fee, 2-3 hours
   • Pashupatinath Temple: Entrance Fee, 1-2 hours
   • Nepali Dance Performance: Ticket Price, 2 hours
2. Day 2: Bhaktapur
   1 hour (12 miles) from Kathmandu

   Discover the medieval charm of Bhaktapur. Start the day by exploring Bhaktapur Durbar Square and its exquisite architecture. Enjoy a traditional Newari lunch and then visit the Pottery Square to witness local artisans at work. Wrap up the day with a visit to the Nyatapola Temple.

   • Bhaktapur Durbar Square: Entrance Fee, 2-3 hours
   • Pottery Square: Free, 1-2 hours
   • Nyatapola Temple: Entrance Fee, 1 hour
3. Day 3: Chitwan National Park
   5 hours (97 miles) from Bhaktapur

   Embark on a thrilling jungle safari adventure in Chitwan National Park. Take a morning elephant safari to spot wildlife, enjoy a riverside lunch, and then go canoeing along the Rapti River. In the evening, indulge in a cultural program showcasing traditional Tharu dances.

   • Elephant Safari: Ticket Price, 3-4 hours
   • Canoeing: Ticket Price, 1-2 hours
   • Cultural Program: Ticket Price, 2 hours
4. Day 4: Pokhara
   4 hours (100 miles) from Chitwan National Park

   Relax in the picturesque city of Pokhara. Start the day with a visit to Phewa Lake for boating and stunning views of the Annapurna Range. Enjoy lunch at a lakeside restaurant and then take a peaceful walk to visit the World Peace Pagoda. Wrap up the day with a leisurely stroll along the Lakeside Bazaar.

   • Phewa Lake Boating: Ticket Price, 2 hours
   • World Peace Pagoda: Free, 1-2 hours
   • Lakeside Bazaar: Free, 1-2 hours
5. Day 5: Nagarkot
   6 hours (105 miles) from Pokhara

   Experience a breathtaking sunrise and panoramic views of the Himalayas from Nagarkot. Wake up early and hike to the Nagarkot View Tower for the best vantage point. Enjoy a hearty breakfast and then explore the nearby villages and hiking trails. In the evening, immerse yourself in the local culture with a traditional dinner.

   • Nagarkot View Tower: Free, 1-2 hours
   • Hiking: Free, 2-3 hours
   • Traditional Dinner: Price, 2 hours
6. Day 6: Lumbini
   6 hours (181 miles) from Nagarkot

   Visit the birthplace of Lord Buddha in Lumbini. Explore the sacred site and its numerous monasteries, gardens, and temples. Take a peaceful walk through the Lumbini Crane Sanctuary and learn about the importance of conservation efforts. End the day with a meditation session at the Mayadevi Temple.

   • Lumbini Monastic Zone: Entrance Fee, 2-3 hours
   • Lumbini Crane Sanctuary: Free, 1-2 hours
   • Mayadevi Temple: Free, 1 hour
7. Day 7: Kathmandu
   6 hours (183 miles) from Lumbini

   Return to Kathmandu and spend the day exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Start with the Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, for a panoramic view of the city. Afterward, visit the Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest stupas in the world. Enjoy a farewell dinner with a cultural show.

   • Swayambhunath Stupa: Entrance Fee, 1-2 hours
   • Boudhanath Stupa: Donation, 1-2 hours
   • Farewell Dinner: Price, 2 hours

Recommendations

Are there any other local attractions, events, or experiences I should also consider? How about day trips? Any good ideas on how to get the most for my money and have a lot of fun?

While in Nepal, you may also consider visiting the following attractions and day trips:

• Exploring the ancient city of Patan and its Durbar Square
• Trekking in the Annapurna or Everest regions for an unforgettable adventure
• Visiting the Changu Narayan Temple, one of the oldest Hindu temples in Nepal
• Participating in a traditional Nepali cooking class to learn the secrets of local cuisine
• Exploring the beautiful city of Bhaktapur at night to witness its illuminated heritage sites