8-Day Cultural and Nature Exploration from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Hetauda, Nepal

Day 1: Kathmandu Introduction

Kathmandu, Nepal on May 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at OR2K

Enjoy a healthy and tasty vegetarian breakfast at OR2K, known for its fresh juices and cozy ambiance in Thamel. Opens at 7:30am.
NPR500, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)

Explore the iconic hilltop Buddhist stupa, offering panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley and a glimpse into Tibetan Buddhist culture. Open 6:00am to 5:00pm.
NPR200, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Bhojan Griha

Savor traditional Nepali cuisine in a heritage palace setting, known for authentic dal bhat and Newari dishes. Open 11:00am to 3:00pm.
NPR700, 1h0m

1:30pm

Explore Patan Durbar Square

Discover ancient temples, palaces, and artistic heritage in Lalitpur’s UNESCO World Heritage site. Open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
NPR1000, 3h0m

5:00pm

Dinner at Garden of Dreams Tea House

Relax and enjoy a delightful dinner in this tranquil historic garden tea house, offering Nepali and continental dishes. Opens until 9:00pm.
NPR600, 1h0m
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Day 2: Kathmandu Cultural Tour

Kathmandu, Nepal on May 27, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at The Village Cafe

Start with a hearty breakfast at this cafe specializing in local and organic ingredients. Opens at 7:00am.
NPR450, 1h0m

8:30am

Visit Pashupatinath Temple

Experience one of the most sacred Hindu temples, famed for its architecture and spiritual significance. Open 4:00am to 9:00pm.
NPR1000, 2h0m

11:00am

Explore Boudhanath Stupa

Marvel at the massive Buddhist stupa, a center for Tibetan Buddhism and meditation practices. Open 24 hours.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Yangling Tibetan Restaurant

Enjoy authentic Tibetan momos and thukpa near Boudhanath. Open 11:00am to 10:00pm.
NPR500, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Kathmandu Durbar Square

Walk through the historic heart of Kathmandu with its palaces, temples, and courtyards. Open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
NPR1000, 3h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Fire and Ice Pizzeria

Unwind with Nepal’s popular pizza joint offering both classic and exotic toppings, open till 10:00pm.
NPR700, 1h0m
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Day 3: Travel to Pokhara

Kathmandu to Pokhara, Nepal on May 28, 2025

6:00am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Quick breakfast at your hotel to prepare for the journey. Typically includes tea, bread, and fruit.
NPR300, 30m

7:00am

Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara

Scenic 6-7 hour drive passing through hills, rivers, and panoramic mountain views. Consider a private car or tourist bus.
NPR2500, 7h0m

2:30pm

Lunch at Moondance Restaurant

Enjoy lakeside dining with delicious Western and Nepali dishes, located near Phewa Lake. Open till 8:00pm.
NPR700, 1h0m

4:00pm

Relax and stroll around Phewa Lake

Take a peaceful boat ride or lakeside walk to enjoy the sunset and Annapurna range views. Boating typically 8:00am to 6:00pm.
NPR500, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Curry Village

Taste Indian and Nepalese curry dishes in a cozy setting, open 6:00pm to 10:00pm.
NPR600, 1h0m
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Day 4: Pokhara Adventure

Pokhara, Nepal on May 29, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Himalayan Java Coffee

Start day with excellent coffee and freshly baked pastries, open from 7:00am.
NPR400, 45m

8:00am

Visit Sarangkot for Sunrise

Drive up to Sarangkot viewpoint to witness a spectacular sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Best early morning visit.
NPR300, 2h0m

11:00am

Explore Davis Falls and Gupteshwor Cave

Visit the unique waterfall and the mystical cave nearby; a natural wonder not to miss. Open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
NPR150, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Café Concerto

Enjoy a mix of continental and Nepalese fare in cozy surroundings, open all day.
NPR600, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit International Mountain Museum

Learn about the history of mountaineering in Nepal and the Himalayas; open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
NPR250, 1h30m

5:30pm

Sunset at Lakeside Promenade

Leisurely walk along Lakeside area shops and cafes while enjoying sunset views.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Moondance Restaurant

Return to this popular spot for a relaxed meal by the lake, open till 8:00pm.
NPR700, 1h0m
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Day 5: Travel to Hetauda

Pokhara to Hetauda, Nepal on May 30, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Simple breakfast at hotel to prepare for trip to Hetauda.
NPR300, 30m

8:00am

Drive from Pokhara to Hetauda

An approximate 6 hours drive through scenic mountains and valleys heading southeast towards Hetauda.
NPR2500, 6h0m

2:30pm

Lunch on route or at Hetauda

Stop for local Nepali lunch en route or upon arrival in Hetauda; try roadside dhabas for authentic cuisine.
NPR400, 1h0m

4:00pm

Walk around Hetauda Bazaar

Explore the local town's bustling market area and get a feel for everyday life in Hetauda.
Free, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at local restaurant

Try traditional Newari or Tharu dishes at a recommended local eatery open till 9:00pm.
NPR500, 1h0m
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Day 6: Hiking and Nature

Hetauda, Nepal on May 31, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a fresh breakfast to fuel the day ahead.
NPR300, 30m

8:00am

Trek at the Barandabhar Forest Reserve

Take an easy to moderate hike through lush forest teeming with birds and wildlife; Reserve open 7:00am to 5:00pm.
Free, 4h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at local eatery

Sample flavorful local dishes in a cozy restaurant near the forest.
NPR400, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Makwanpur Fort ruins

Explore historic hilltop ruins with panoramic views and insight into Nepalese history.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at hotel restaurant

Relax with familiar dishes and Nepali favorites at the hotel.
NPR500, 1h0m
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Day 7: Local Culture

Hetauda, Nepal on June 1, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Balanced breakfast including eggs, toast and fruit.
NPR300, 30m

9:00am

Visit Hetauda Community Forest

Learn about community-based forest conservation and enjoy short nature walks.
NPR100, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Green Hills Restaurant

Enjoy cool ambiance and garden seating serving both local and continental dishes.
NPR500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Explore local art and handicraft shops

Support local artisans by browsing handmade crafts and textiles around the town.
Free to browse, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Newa Restaurant

Taste authentic Newari dishes like bara, choila, and sukuti in this popular spot open till 9:00pm.
NPR600, 1h0m
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Day 8: Return to Kathmandu

Hetauda to Kathmandu, Nepal on June 2, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Simple but nourishing breakfast to prepare for the journey back.
NPR300, 30m

8:00am

Drive back to Kathmandu

Travel approximately 4-5 hours on highway back to Kathmandu for departure or further exploration.
NPR2000, 5h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Garden of Dreams

Relax with lunch in the serene garden setting, ideal for concluding your trip. Open till 3:00pm.
NPR600, 1h0m
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