Travel guide · Nepal
The Perfect Nepal Itinerary
One week for Kathmandu and Pokhara, two to add Chitwan and a short trek, three for a big trek — pick your pace.
Nepal packs an enormous amount into a small country, so your itinerary really comes down to how much time you have. Below are three tried-and-tested routes that build on each other, from a quick first taste to a full Himalayan adventure.
The short answer
With one week, focus on Kathmandu and Pokhara. With two weeks, add a wildlife safari in Chitwan and a short trek. With three weeks, tackle a longer classic trek such as the Annapurna or Everest regions and round things off with the Buddha's birthplace at Lumbini. Fly between distant points to save days; drive to save money.
One week: Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Days 1–3, Kathmandu: Settle into Thamel and explore the valley's temples, stupas and three Durbar Squares. See our top attractions in Kathmandu to prioritise.
- Days 4–7, Pokhara: Fly or drive west to the lakeside town, then unwind with boat trips on Phewa Lake, a sunrise at Sarangkot and easy day hikes — the best things to do in Pokhara has the full list.
Two weeks: add Chitwan and a short trek
- Days 1–4, Kathmandu: As above, with an extra day for Bhaktapur or Patan.
- Days 5–6, Chitwan: Head south to Chitwan National Park for jungle walks, canoe trips and the chance to spot rhinos and crocodiles.
- Days 7–12, short trek from Pokhara: Tackle a four- to six-day route such as Poon Hill or Mardi Himal for big mountain views without the long commitment.
- Days 13–14, Pokhara and back: Relax lakeside before returning to Kathmandu to fly home.
Three weeks: a longer trek or Lumbini
- Days 1–3, Kathmandu: Sightseeing and trek preparation.
- Days 4–18, classic trek: Commit to a longer route like the Annapurna Circuit, Annapurna Base Camp or Everest Base Camp. See our Nepal trekking guide to choose and prepare.
- Days 19–21, Lumbini or Chitwan: Wind down in the Terai, either at the peaceful pilgrimage site of Lumbini or on safari in Chitwan, before heading home.
Tips for any length
- Build in a buffer day before international flights, especially around treks and domestic flights that weather can delay.
- Match your route to the season — read the best time to visit Nepal before locking in dates.
- Don't over-schedule; Nepal's roads are slow, and the country rewards a relaxed pace.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do you need in Nepal?+
One week is the realistic minimum to see Kathmandu and Pokhara without rushing. Two weeks lets you add Chitwan National Park and a short Himalayan trek, and three weeks gives time for a longer classic trek such as the Annapurna or Everest regions, plus Lumbini.
What is the best 1-week itinerary for Nepal?+
Spend three to four days in the Kathmandu Valley exploring its temples and Durbar Squares, then take a short flight or scenic drive to Pokhara for two to three days of lake views, day hikes and a sunrise at Sarangkot. It's the classic first-timer's loop.
Can you trek in Nepal in two weeks?+
Yes. Two weeks comfortably fits a short trek of four to seven days, such as the Poon Hill or Mardi Himal routes from Pokhara, alongside time in Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan. For longer treks like Everest Base Camp or the Annapurna Circuit, plan for three weeks or more.
Is it better to fly or drive between Kathmandu and Pokhara?+
Flying takes about 25 minutes and saves the best part of a day, while the drive takes six to eight hours on a winding highway but is far cheaper and lets you see the countryside. Many travellers fly one way and drive the other to balance time and budget.
