Kathmandu and Pokhara Cultural Tour
5 to 7 Days
Cost ranges are based on active Nepal operator listings and package marketplaces in 2024/2025.
What is this tour?
This is one of the easiest ways to combine Nepal's heritage city and lake city in one trip. You get temples, old city squares, mountain viewpoints, and relaxed evenings by Phewa Lake.
It works well for first-time visitors because logistics are simple and roads/flights between the two cities are frequent.
Route - Day by Day
If you add extra days, most people include light hiking, paragliding, or a short village stay around Pokhara.
- Day 1: Arrive Kathmandu and explore local markets around Thamel.
- Day 2: Kathmandu heritage circuit (Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Swayambhu, Patan or Bhaktapur).
- Day 3: Fly or drive to Pokhara; evening lakeside walk.
- Day 4: Sunrise at Sarangkot, then city sightseeing (Davis Falls, Gupteshwor, Peace Pagoda).
- Day 5: Return to Kathmandu or extend with one free day for adventure activities.
How much does it cost?
As of 2024/2025, Kathmandu and Pokhara tour cost is commonly around USD 350 to 900 per person for standard private/shared packages, depending on hotel class and transport mode.
- Budget style: USD 350 to 500 with tourist bus and standard hotels.
- Comfort style: USD 550 to 900 with private transfers or domestic flights.
- Domestic flight one way: often around USD 90 to 130 per person.
- Private guide/day guide costs vary by city and language requirement.
Best time to go
Best windows are spring and autumn for clearer Himalayan views and smoother sightseeing weather. Winter is also good for city tours, though mornings can be chilly.
Monsoon months are greener and less crowded but include higher rain probability and cloud-covered mountain views.
Practical tips
This route is beginner-friendly and still feels rich if you keep a relaxed pace instead of overloading each day.
- Use a morning flight to Pokhara if your schedule is tight.
- Keep one flexible half-day in Pokhara for weather-dependent activities.
- Choose hotel locations near walking zones to reduce city traffic time.
- Carry small notes for entry fees and local snacks.
