5-Day Nepal Itinerary for Shoestring Budget Travelers

  1. Day 1: Kathmandu Durbar Square
    45 minutes (5.4 kilometers) from Tribhuvan International Airport

    Kathmandu Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to various temples and palaces from the 17th and 18th centuries. The complex also houses the Kumari House, residence of the living goddess.

  2. Day 2: Boudhanath Stupa
    25 minutes (7.5 kilometers) from Kathmandu Durbar Square

    One of the world's largest stupas, Boudhanath Stupa is a sacred pilgrimage site for Buddhists. You can find several shops selling traditional Tibetan paintings, jewelry, and handicrafts around the area.

  3. Day 3: Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)
    25 minutes (7 kilometers) from Boudhanath Stupa

    Swayambhunath Stupa is a 2,500-year-old Buddhist temple atop a hill overlooking Kathmandu Valley. It is also called Monkey Temple because of the monkeys that inhabit the area. You can enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the top.

  4. Day 4: Pokhara
    Around 5 hours (200 kilometers) from Swayambhunath Stupa

    Pokhara is a beautiful lakeside town nestled in the Himalayan foothills. You can go boating in the Phewa Lake, take a scenic hike in the nearby hills, or visit the World Peace Pagoda. You can also find a plethora of restaurants and cafes serving local and international cuisine.

  5. Day 5: Chitwan National Park
    Around 4 hours (150 kilometers) from Pokhara

    Chitwan National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to various species of flora and fauna, including the Bengal tiger, one-horned rhinoceros, and gharial crocodile. You can go on a jungle safari, canoeing trip, or visit a local Tharu village.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Kathmandu Durbar Square (1-2 hours, free)
  • Boudhanath Stupa (1-2 hours, NRs 400)
  • Swayambhunath Stupa (1-2 hours, NRs 200)
  • Pokhara (2-3 days, depending on activities)
  • Chitwan National Park (1-2 days, safari packages starting from NRs 6,500)
  • Total Estimated Costs: NRs 7,100-13,100

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can add a trek to the Himalayas or explore more of Nepal's natural beauty. If you have less time, you can skip Chitwan National Park and spend more time in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Remember to bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Bargaining is common practice at markets, so don't be afraid to haggle for a better price.

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