A Family Friendly 7-Day Itinerary in Nepal

Friday, November 24: Kathmandu

In the morning, explore the cultural heritage of Kathmandu by visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Durbar Square and Swayambhunath Stupa. Enjoy a traditional Nepali lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk around the beautiful Garden of Dreams. For the evening, witness a mesmerizing traditional Nepali dance performance at the Nepali Chhaya Center.

• Durbar Square: Entrance fee: NPR 1,000 ($9), Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Swayambhunath Stupa: Entrance fee: NPR 200 ($2), Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Garden of Dreams: Entrance fee: NPR 200 ($2), Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Nepali Chhaya Center: Entrance fee: NPR 500 ($5), Time spent: 2-3 hours

Saturday, November 25: Pokhara

Start your day with a scenic drive to Pokhara. In the morning, take a boat ride on Phewa Lake and visit the famous Tal Barahi Temple located on an island in the lake. Enjoy a delicious lakeside lunch. In the afternoon, hike up to the World Peace Pagoda for panoramic views of Pokhara and the Annapurna mountain range. In the evening, explore the vibrant Lakeside Bazaar and indulge in local cuisine.

• Phewa Lake Boat Ride: NPR 500 ($5), Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Tal Barahi Temple: Entrance fee: NPR 100 ($1), Time spent: 1-2 hours
• World Peace Pagoda: No entrance fee, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Lakeside Bazaar: No entrance fee, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Sunday, November 26: Chitwan National Park

Embark on an exciting jungle adventure in Chitwan National Park. In the morning, go on a thrilling elephant safari to spot wildlife. Enjoy a traditional Tharu lunch. In the afternoon, take a canoe ride on the Rapti River and observe various bird species. Explore the local Tharu village in the evening and learn about their culture through cultural performances.

• Elephant Safari: NPR 2,000 ($18), Time spent: 3-4 hours
• Canoe Ride: NPR 500 ($5), Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Tharu Village Visit: Entrance fee: NPR 500 ($5), Time spent: 2-3 hours

Monday, November 27: Nagarkot

Start your day early and head to Nagarkot, known for its breathtaking sunrise views over the Himalayas. Enjoy a hot breakfast while admiring the panoramic scenery. In the morning, take a leisurely hike along the Nagarkot Panoramic Trail. Indulge in a traditional Nepali lunch. In the afternoon, visit the historic Bhaktapur Durbar Square and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage.

• Nagarkot Sunrise: No entrance fee, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Nagarkot Panoramic Trail: No entrance fee, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Bhaktapur Durbar Square: Entrance fee: NPR 1,500 ($13), Time spent: 2-3 hours

Tuesday, November 28: Lumbini

Embark on a spiritual journey to Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. In the morning, explore the sacred Maya Devi Temple and the Ashoka Pillar. Enjoy a vegetarian lunch at a local monastery. In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Lumbini Garden and marvel at the different monastic zones. Experience a serene meditation session at a Buddhist monastery in the evening.

• Maya Devi Temple: Entrance fee: NPR 200 ($2), Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Ashoka Pillar: No entrance fee, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Lumbini Garden: Entrance fee: NPR 200 ($2), Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Buddhist Monastery: No entrance fee, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Wednesday, November 29: Bandipur

Travel to the picturesque hilltop town of Bandipur. In the morning, explore the charming old town with its traditional Newari houses. Enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas from the Tundikhel viewpoint. Indulge in a local lunch. In the afternoon, hike to the Siddha Cave, one of the largest caves in Nepal. Enjoy a peaceful evening in the tranquil surroundings of Bandipur.

• Exploring Old Town: No entrance fee, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Tundikhel Viewpoint: No entrance fee, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Siddha Cave: Entrance fee: NPR 100 ($1), Time spent: 2-3 hours

Thursday, November 30: Kathmandu

Return to Kathmandu and explore the vibrant city further. In the morning, visit the sacred Pashupatinath Temple and witness the rituals performed by Hindu devotees. Enjoy a traditional Nepali lunch. In the afternoon, explore the narrow alleys and courtyards of the ancient city of Patan, known for its rich cultural heritage. In the evening, indulge in shopping for souvenirs at the bustling markets of Thamel.

• Pashupatinath Temple: Entrance fee: NPR 1,000 ($9), Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Patan Durbar Square: Entrance fee: NPR 1,000 ($9), Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Thamel Shopping: Cost varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

If you have extra time, consider visiting the peaceful town of Dhulikhel, known for its stunning mountain views and hiking trails. Another off-the-beaten-path destination is the beautiful Rara Lake, located in the remote Karnali region. Locals love spending time in the serene city of Bhaktapur, famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture and pottery traditions.

Check hotel and flight prices for your Nepal trip here.