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3 Days Kathmandu Pokhara Tour

4.9 | 3 Days / 2 Nights | Kathmandu - Pokhara - Kathmandu

3 Days Kathmandu Pokhara Tour

At a Glance

Trip Durations

3 Days / 2 Nights

Destination

Nepal

Grade

Easy

Group Size

1–50 Travelers (Private & Group Departures Available)

Accomodation

3-Star Hotel

Best Season

Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Sep, Oct, Nov & Dec

Start / End Point

Kathmandu - Pokhara - Kathmandu

Transportation

Tourist Bus / Private Car / Domestic Flight

Guiding Mehtod

Fully Guided

If you have only three days in Nepal but still want to experience both the cultural heart of the country and its most scenic lakeside city, the 3 Days Kathmandu Pokhara Tour is built exactly for that. This short itinerary pairs a half-day of UNESCO heritage sightseeing in Kathmandu with a scenic overland or flight journey to Pokhara, where you will wake before dawn to watch the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre ranges catch the first light from Sarangkot, then spend the rest of the day exploring Phewa Lake, Davis Falls, and the World Peace Pagoda.

Three days is tight, and we say that honestly rather than as a sales pitch — but with the right transportation choice and a well-paced itinerary, it works well as an introduction to Nepal, a stopover between longer trips, or a weekend add-on for travelers who cannot spare a full week. Royal Nepal Holidays runs this tour as a private, customizable package, so the pace, hotel category, and transportation mode can all be adjusted to match your schedule and budget.

Below you will find the complete day-by-day itinerary, an honest look at whether three days is really enough, a full transportation comparison, transparent pricing, and everything else you need to decide and book.

Tour Overview

Quick Trip Facts

Detail Information
Tour Name 3 Days Kathmandu Pokhara Tour
Duration 3 Days / 2 Nights
Start Point Kathmandu
End Point Kathmandu (or Pokhara, if flying onward)
Destinations Kathmandu, Pokhara
Difficulty Easy — no trekking or physical strain
Maximum Elevation Sarangkot, approximately 1,600 m
Accommodation 3-star, 4-star, or 5-star hotels (your choice)
Meals Daily breakfast included; lunch/dinner optional
Transportation Tourist bus, private car, or domestic flight
Group Size Private tour — 1 traveler to large groups
Guide English-speaking local guide available on request
Best Season March–May and September–November
Tour Type Private, fully customizable sightseeing tour

Tour Highlights

  • Sunrise over the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre ranges from Sarangkot
  • Boating on the tranquil waters of Phewa Lake with Tal Barahi Temple
  • Scenic 200 km road journey along the Trishuli and Marsyangdi river valleys, or a quick 25-minute mountain flight
  • World Peace Pagoda overlooking Pokhara valley and the lake
  • Davis Falls, a dramatic underground waterfall unique to Pokhara
  • Gupteshwor Cave, home to a sacred Shiva shrine beside the falls
  • A short walk through Kathmandu Durbar Square before or after the Pokhara leg (schedule-dependent)
  • Fully private tour with your own vehicle, driver, and flexible timing
  • Hotel category choice from standard 3-star to luxury 5-star
  • A realistic, uncrowded pace designed for a short trip rather than a rushed checklist
  • Easy add-ons — extend to Chitwan, Lumbini, or Muktinath if your schedule allows
  • No trekking or high-altitude exposure, suitable for nearly all fitness levels

Is 3 Days Enough for Kathmandu and Pokhara?

Three days is enough to get a genuine, memorable taste of both cities — it is not enough to see everything either has to offer, and we would rather tell you that upfront than oversell the itinerary.

What you can realistically cover:

In three days, you can comfortably fit one iconic Kathmandu heritage site, the scenic transfer to Pokhara, a full day of Pokhara's core sights (Sarangkot sunrise, Phewa Lake, World Peace Pagoda, Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Cave), and a relaxed return. This gives you the two experiences most first-time visitors want most: a cultural landmark and the Himalayan lake-city scenery.

What you cannot realistically cover:

A deep exploration of all four Kathmandu UNESCO sites (Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, and Boudhanath), any trekking beyond a short walk, a leisurely two-day Pokhara stay, or an add-on destination like Chitwan or Lumbini. Trying to force all of this into three days usually means long, tiring days in the vehicle rather than genuine sightseeing time.

Why transportation choice matters so much here:

On a 3-day itinerary, every hour spent on the road is an hour not spent sightseeing. Choosing between the 6–7 hour tourist bus, the faster private car, or the 25-minute flight has a bigger impact on how much you actually see than almost any other decision you will make for this trip.

Why flights are useful for short trips:

A one-way or round-trip flight between Kathmandu and Pokhara turns roughly 12–14 hours of round-trip driving into under an hour of flying, freeing up nearly a full extra day for sightseeing, rest, or a slower pace. For travelers on a genuinely tight 3-day window, this is often the single best upgrade you can make.

When to choose a 4–5 day itinerary instead:

If you want to see all major Kathmandu heritage sites without rushing, spend two relaxed days in Pokhara, add a sunrise and sunset viewpoint, or include Chitwan's jungle safari, a 4–5 day version of this tour will feel far less compressed. We are happy to extend this itinerary — see the internal links below for longer options.


3-Day Itinerary at a Glance

Day Destination Main Activities Overnight
Day 1 Kathmandu → Pokhara Kathmandu sightseeing, scenic journey, Lakeside walk Pokhara
Day 2 Pokhara Sarangkot sunrise, Phewa Lake, boating, Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Cave, Peace Pagoda Pokhara
Day 3 Pokhara → Kathmandu Scenic return journey / optional flight

Transportation Options

For a 3-day trip, transportation makes a major difference.

Option 1 — Tourist Bus

Best for travelers looking for a more economical package.

Advantages:

  • Lower cost
  • Scenic overland journey
  • Suitable for budget travelers

Option 2 — Private Car

Recommended for couples, families and small groups.

Advantages:

  • More comfortable
  • Flexible departure
  • Private sightseeing
  • Opportunity for stops along the route

Option 3 — Domestic Flight

Best for travelers who want to maximize sightseeing time.

You can fly:

Kathmandu → Pokhara

and/or

Pokhara → Kathmandu

Flight schedules and operations can be affected by weather and airline conditions, so current schedules should be confirmed at booking.


Accommodation

The standard package can use 3-star hotels in Kathmandu/Pokhara with breakfast included.

Royal Nepal Holidays can offer upgrades to:

  • 3-star hotels
  • 4-star hotels
  • 5-star/luxury hotels
  • Boutique hotels
  • Lakeside Pokhara properties

For the website, I'd avoid naming hotels unless you have confirmed supplier agreements and availability.


Meals

Included: Breakfast

Not normally included: Lunch and dinner.

This gives travelers flexibility to choose restaurants according to their preferences and budget.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 : Kathmandu Sightseeing & Scenic Journey to Pokhara

clock icon 6-8 Hours Driveaccomodation icon Hotel in PokharaMeal iconBreakfast

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara
Transportation: Tourist bus / private vehicle / flight upgrade

Your 3 Days Kathmandu Pokhara Tour begins with breakfast at your hotel in Kathmandu. Depending on your departure time and selected transportation, you will either begin with Kathmandu sightseeing before traveling to Pokhara or travel directly to Pokhara.

If your schedule allows, visit some of Kathmandu's major cultural attractions, such as Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa. These historic landmarks provide an introduction to Nepal's religious and cultural heritage.

After sightseeing, begin the journey toward Pokhara. The overland route takes you through Nepal's changing landscapes, with views of hills, rivers, villages, terraced farmland and mountain scenery along the way.

If you choose the private vehicle option, you can make convenient stops along the route for photographs and refreshments.

Upon arrival in Pokhara, check in to your hotel and relax.

In the evening, take a leisurely walk around Pokhara Lakeside, one of the city's most popular areas. Enjoy views of Phewa Lake, explore local shops and cafés, or simply relax beside the lake.

Overnight: Pokhara
Driving: Kathmandu → Pokhara
Meals: Breakfast

Day 2 : Sarangkot Sunrise & Full-Day Pokhara Sightseeing

clock icon 8-10 Hoursaccomodation icon Hotel in PokharaMeal iconBreakfast

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara
Transportation: Private sightseeing vehicle

Wake up early for the highlight of your Pokhara visit: Sarangkot sunrise.

Sarangkot Sunrise

Drive to Sarangkot before sunrise. At approximately 1,600 meters, Sarangkot is one of the best-known viewpoints around Pokhara.

From the viewpoint, you may see the first sunlight illuminating the Himalayan peaks, including the Annapurna range, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Dhaulagiri and surrounding mountains, depending on weather and visibility.

After sunrise, return to your hotel for breakfast.

Phewa Lake

After breakfast, continue to Phewa Lake.

Enjoy a traditional boat ride across the lake and take in the surrounding hills and mountain scenery. If weather conditions are clear, the reflection of Machhapuchhre on the lake can create excellent photography opportunities.

You can also visit Tal Barahi Temple, located on an island in the lake, if included in your selected sightseeing program.

Davis Falls

Continue to Davis Falls, one of Pokhara's most popular natural attractions. During the monsoon season, the waterfall can become particularly powerful.

Gupteshwor Cave

Located near Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Cave is a sacred limestone cave with a shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Explore the cave and learn about its religious significance before continuing your sightseeing.

World Peace Pagoda

Next, visit the World Peace Pagoda, also known as Shanti Stupa.

Situated on a hill overlooking Phewa Lake, the pagoda provides panoramic views of Pokhara, the lake and surrounding Himalayan landscape when visibility is good.

Pokhara Lakeside

Return to Lakeside in the afternoon or evening.

Spend some free time exploring the area, enjoying local food, shopping for souvenirs or relaxing beside Phewa Lake.

Overnight: Pokhara
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 : Pokhara to Kathmandu

clock icon 7–8 Hoursaccomodation icon No AccomoadtionMeal iconBreakfast

Meals: Breakfast
Transportation: Tourist bus / private vehicle / flight

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before beginning your return journey to Kathmandu.

If you are traveling by tourist bus or private vehicle, depart Pokhara in the morning and follow the scenic highway toward Kathmandu.

The journey provides another opportunity to enjoy Nepal's countryside, including river valleys, terraced hillsides, small settlements and mountain landscapes.

Optional Flight Upgrade

For travelers with limited time, a Pokhara–Kathmandu domestic flight can be arranged as an optional upgrade.

Flying significantly reduces the time spent traveling by road and gives you additional time in Kathmandu or allows you to connect with your international departure.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, Royal Nepal Holidays can arrange your airport transfer or drop-off at your hotel, depending on your onward travel plans.

Your 3 Days Kathmandu Pokhara Tour concludes after arrival in Kathmandu.

Tour Ends: Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast

Not satisfied with this Itinerary?

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Cost Details for this Tour

What's Included

  • 2 nights' accommodation in a 3-star hotel on twin/double sharing basis
  • Daily breakfast
  • Kathmandu–Pokhara–Kathmandu transportation by tourist bus or the selected vehicle option
  • Airport pickup and drop-off in Kathmandu
  • Kathmandu sightseeing transportation
  • Pokhara sightseeing transportation
  • English-speaking licensed tour guide during sightseeing
  • Sarangkot sunrise excursion
  • Phewa Lake boating
  • Kathmandu and Pokhara sightseeing as mentioned in the itinerary
  • All applicable sightseeing entrance fees included in the selected package
  • Government taxes and official service charges
  • All transportation and sightseeing costs as specified in the itinerary

What's Not Included

  • International airfare
  • Nepal tourist visa fee
  • Travel insurance
  • Lunch and dinner
  • Personal expenses
  • Drinks and beverages
  • Laundry
  • Telephone/SIM/data charges
  • Tips for guide and driver
  • Personal shopping
  • Additional sightseeing not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Emergency evacuation or medical expenses
  • Activities not specifically listed under inclusions
  • Additional hotel nights caused by early arrival, late departure or itinerary changes
  • Any cost arising from flight cancellation, major road disruption or circumstances beyond the company's control

Optional Add-ons

These are useful because they let you advertise a competitive starting price while allowing customers to upgrade.

Add-on Suggested Pricing
Kathmandu–Pokhara–Kathmandu flights US$180–250 pp
Private car instead of tourist bus US$50–100 pp depending on group
Private Jeep US$80–150 pp
4-star hotel upgrade US$60–100 pp
5-star hotel upgrade US$150–300+ pp
Single room supplement US$60–100
Extended Phewa Lake boating US$15–30 pp
Lunch & dinner package US$50–80 pp
Professional photography US$100–200/group
Adventure activity in Pokhara From US$30+
Private airport transfer US$20–40
Popular
From USD 300
per person (price varies by group size)
Group Discount Offers
Special discounts are available based on the number of travelers in your group.
Group Price Per Person
1 Pax USD 450
2 Paxes USD 350
3-6 Paxes USD 300
7-10 Paxes USD 275
Note: Contact us for larger groups
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3 Days Kathmandu Pokhara Tour Route Map

3 Days Kathmandu Pokhara Tour Route Map

Captured Memories Of 3 Days Kathmandu Pokhara Tour

Additional Information about this Tour

Kathmandu to Pokhara Transportation Options

Transportation Cost Level Time Comfort Best For
Tourist Bus Budget 6–7 hours Moderate, shared seating Budget travelers comfortable with a longer road day
Private Car Mid-range 6–7 hours High, flexible stops Travelers who want comfort and photo stops without flying
Private Jeep/Van Mid-range 6–7 hours High, more luggage space Small groups or families with extra baggage
Domestic Flight Higher Approx. 25 minutes Highest, fastest Travelers short on time or wanting maximum sightseeing hours

Road travel times can vary significantly due to traffic near Kathmandu Valley, seasonal landslides or road repairs on the Prithvi Highway, and weather conditions — during monsoon especially, allow extra buffer time. Domestic flights are generally reliable but can face delays or cancellations in poor visibility, particularly in the early morning during winter fog.


3 Days Kathmandu Pokhara Tour Cost

The final price depends on several factors:

  • Group size — larger groups reduce the per-person cost of shared vehicles and guides
  • Hotel category — 3-star, 4-star, or 5-star accommodation
  • Transportation mode — tourist bus, private car, or domestic flight
  • Guide — private English-speaking guide included or on request
  • Entrance fees — Kathmandu heritage site and Pokhara attraction fees
  • Meals — breakfast is included; lunch and dinner can be added
  • Activities — boating, cable car, or optional add-ons
  • Season — peak autumn and spring dates may carry a premium
  • Single supplement — solo travelers pay a higher per-person rate to cover fixed vehicle and guide costs

Royal Nepal Holidays Pricing Table

Group Size Standard Package Private Comfort Luxury
1 Person US$450 US$550 US$750+
2 People US$350 pp US$425 pp US$600+ pp
3–6 People US$300 pp US$375 pp US$550+ pp
7–9 People US$275 pp US$350 pp US$500+ pp
10+ People Contact us Contact us Contact us

Domestic flight upgrades (Kathmandu–Pokhara or Pokhara–Kathmandu) are quoted separately based on current airfare and can be added to any package tier. Contact Royal Nepal Holidays for a tailored quote based on your travel dates, group size, and preferred transportation mode.


What Is Included?

  • Two nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu/Pokhara as per itinerary
  • Daily breakfast
  • All ground transportation as specified in your chosen package
  • Private vehicle for Pokhara sightseeing, including the Sarangkot sunrise transfer
  • Boat ride on Phewa Lake
  • English-speaking guide (Private Comfort and Luxury tiers; available on request for Standard)
  • Government taxes and service charges

What Is Not Included?

  • International airfare to and from Nepal
  • Nepal entry visa fees
  • Travel insurance
  • Lunch and dinner (unless specifically added to your package)
  • Personal expenses such as shopping, laundry, and phone/data costs
  • Tips and gratuities for guide and driver
  • Optional activities not listed in the itinerary (paragliding, zip-lining, etc.)
  • Alcoholic and bottled beverages
  • Any additional accommodation nights beyond the itinerary
  • Domestic flight tickets (available as an add-on upgrade)

Accommodation

Royal Nepal Holidays offers three accommodation tiers for this tour, bookable on twin-sharing or single-room basis:

Standard (3-star): Clean, comfortable hotels centrally located in Thamel (Kathmandu) and Lakeside (Pokhara), with private bathrooms and daily breakfast included.

Private Comfort (4-star): Well-appointed hotels with additional amenities such as on-site restaurants, better furnishings, and more central or scenic locations.

Luxury (5-star): Premium properties offering the highest level of comfort, service, and often lake-view or valley-view rooms, suited to travelers who want a more indulgent short getaway.

All tiers are on a bed-and-breakfast basis unless you request full board. Specific hotel names are confirmed at the time of booking based on availability.


Kathmandu Attractions

Kathmandu Durbar Square: The former royal palace complex of the Malla and Shah kings, packed with intricately carved temples, courtyards, and the historic Kumari Ghar, home to Nepal's living goddess.

Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): One of the oldest religious sites in Nepal, this hilltop stupa offers panoramic views over the Kathmandu Valley along with its resident troops of monkeys and centuries of Buddhist history.

Pashupatinath Temple: A sacred Hindu temple complex on the banks of the Bagmati River, among the most important Shiva temples in the world and a center of daily ritual and cremation ceremonies.

Boudhanath Stupa: One of the largest stupas in the world and the spiritual heart of Nepal's Tibetan Buddhist community, ringed by monasteries, prayer wheels, and incense shops.

Given the compressed schedule, most 3-day itineraries include only one of these sites — let us know your preference when booking, or ask about extending to a 4-day version for fuller Kathmandu coverage.


Pokhara Attractions

Sarangkot: A ridge above Pokhara offering one of Nepal's most celebrated sunrise views, with the Annapurna range and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) peak lit up in gold and pink as the sun rises.

Phewa Lake: Pokhara's centerpiece, a calm lake reflecting the surrounding hills and, on clear days, the distant Annapurna range. Rowboats can be hired to reach Tal Barahi Temple, sitting on its own small island.

World Peace Pagoda: A gleaming white Buddhist stupa perched on a hillside above the lake, reached by boat and a short uphill walk, offering sweeping views over Pokhara valley.

Davis Falls: A striking waterfall that disappears underground into a narrow gorge, unusual in both its geology and its dramatic sound and spray.

Gupteshwor Cave: A limestone cave system just across from Davis Falls, containing a revered Shiva shrine deep inside its chambers.

Seti Gorge: A narrow, deep gorge carved by the Seti River as it cuts through the middle of Pokhara city, visible from several points around town.

Lakeside Pokhara: The tourist hub of the city, lined with restaurants, cafes, shops, and a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere that makes for a pleasant evening stroll after a day of sightseeing.


Best Time for Kathmandu Pokhara Tour

Spring (March–May)

Warm days, blooming rhododendrons, and generally good mountain visibility, though afternoon haze can occasionally soften long-distance views. Roads are typically in good condition. A popular and busier season.

Monsoon (June–August)

Frequent afternoon and evening rainfall, lush green landscapes, and the least crowded time to visit. Mountain visibility is unreliable, and road travel can be slower due to occasional landslides on the Kathmandu–Pokhara highway. Mornings are often clearer than afternoons.

Autumn (September–November)

Widely considered the most reliable season, with clear skies, crisp air, and excellent mountain visibility, making Sarangkot sunrise views particularly rewarding. This is also the busiest and most popular travel season, so book hotels and transport in advance.

Winter (December–February)

Cold mornings, especially at Sarangkot, but generally clear daytime skies and good visibility once any early fog clears. Fewer crowds than autumn. Occasional morning fog can delay domestic flights, so build in a buffer if flying on a tight schedule.

No single season is objectively "best" — autumn offers the most reliable mountain views, spring balances pleasant weather with good visibility, winter suits travelers who prefer fewer crowds and don't mind the cold mornings, and monsoon suits budget travelers who can accept some rain and reduced visibility.


Is This Tour Suitable for You?

Families

Yes — the itinerary involves no trekking or strenuous walking, and the pace can be slowed down further for children or grandparents. Sarangkot's early start is the main consideration; some families choose to skip sunrise in favor of a later, more relaxed morning.

Couples

A popular short getaway or honeymoon add-on, combining cultural sightseeing with romantic lake and mountain scenery. Upgrading to the Luxury tier is a common choice for couples wanting a more special experience.

Senior Travelers

Well suited to older travelers, since all sightseeing is vehicle-based with only short walks at each stop. The early Sarangkot departure and cold morning temperatures are worth planning for with warm layers.

First-Time Nepal Visitors

An efficient introduction to Nepal's two most-visited cities, giving a taste of both Kathmandu's heritage and Pokhara's Himalayan scenery without committing to a longer trip.

Indian Travelers

A convenient short break given proximity and visa-free entry for Indian nationals, and easily paired with a longer trip extension to Lumbini or Chitwan if time allows.

Travelers With Limited Vacation Time

Exactly the situation this itinerary is designed for — a compact, well-paced trip that fits into a long weekend or a short stopover between other travel plans.

Travelers Who Do Not Want Trekking

Ideal — there is no trekking involved anywhere in this itinerary, only sightseeing, short walks, and vehicle transfers.


Kathmandu Pokhara Tour by Bus vs Car vs Flight

Choose the tourist bus if you are traveling on a tighter budget, don't mind a longer travel day, and are comfortable with fixed departure times and shared seating alongside other travelers.

Choose a private car if you want the flexibility to stop for photos and rest breaks, prefer your own space, and are traveling as a couple, family, or small group without needing to save the extra hours a flight would free up.

Choose a flight if your three days are genuinely tight, you want to maximize actual sightseeing time over travel time, you are traveling with elderly family members or young children who would find a 6–7 hour drive tiring, or your onward international flight leaves the same evening as your Pokhara return.


What to Pack

  • Comfortable walking shoes for temple and viewpoint visits
  • Light layers for daytime warmth
  • A warm jacket or fleece, especially for the pre-dawn Sarangkot visit
  • A light rain jacket, particularly outside the dry autumn/winter months
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • A sun hat
  • Personal medication in hand luggage
  • Passport and printed/digital booking confirmations
  • Camera or phone with adequate storage
  • A power bank for the early Sarangkot morning and long sightseeing days

Travel Tips

  • Sarangkot departures are early — confirm your pickup time the night before
  • Road conditions on the Prithvi Highway can vary seasonally; allow buffer time if you have a tight onward connection
  • Check the weather forecast before your Sarangkot morning, though mountain visibility can still shift quickly
  • Nepali Rupees are the primary currency; USD and major currencies can be exchanged in both cities
  • A local SIM card or eSIM is easy to arrange on arrival in Kathmandu for the duration of your trip
  • Bottled or filtered water is recommended over tap water throughout the trip
  • Lakeside Pokhara and Thamel Kathmandu both offer a wide range of restaurants for every budget and taste
  • Neither city involves significant altitude concerns on this itinerary
  • Ask permission before photographing people at religious sites, and dress modestly when visiting temples
  • Remove shoes and avoid loud behavior inside temple courtyards and shrines
  • Traffic in Kathmandu Valley can be heavy, especially around peak hours — factor this into airport transfer timing
  • Keep your itinerary flexible where possible, since flights can occasionally shift due to weather

Why Book With Royal Nepal Holidays?

Royal Nepal Holidays is a Nepal-based travel company with hands-on local expertise in Kathmandu and Pokhara sightseeing, run under the direction of owner Sushil Tiwari. Every itinerary is handled as a private tour rather than a fixed group departure, meaning your pace, hotel category, and transportation mode are built around your actual travel dates rather than a one-size-fits-all schedule.

Our guides, including Bashu, Chandra, and Uttam, bring detailed local knowledge of both cities' history, culture, and best viewpoints, and our team stays directly reachable throughout your trip for any adjustments you need along the way. We handle airport and hotel transfers, offer flexible transportation upgrades between bus, car, and flight, and communicate transparently about costs with no hidden fees added after booking.


Book Your 3 Days Kathmandu Pokhara Tour

Ready to experience Kathmandu's heritage and Pokhara's lakeside mountain views in one efficient trip? Request a quote from Royal Nepal Holidays and let us know your travel dates, group size, and preferred hotel category and transportation mode. We can customize transportation between bus, car, and flight, upgrade your accommodation tier, add extra activities like paragliding or a longer boat excursion, or extend the itinerary to a 4-day or longer version if you would rather see more of Kathmandu or add Chitwan or Lumbini.

Contact Royal Nepal Holidays today to check availability and start planning your 3 Days Kathmandu Pokhara Tour.

Traveller's Reviews

Excellent

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Elian Mercer | On April 2026
5 Excellent

Three Days That Gave Us A Real Taste Of Nepal

Our Three Days In Nepal With Royal Nepal Holidays Went By Incredibly Quickly, But The Itinerary Gave Us A Wonderful Introduction To Both Kathmandu And Pokhara. We Started With Kathmandu's Historic Temples And Heritage Sites Before Heading Toward Pokhara. The Scenery Along The Journey Was Beautiful, With Green Hills, Villages And Rivers Appearing Around Almost Every Turn.

The Highlight For Me Was Waking Up Early For Sarangkot. We Arrived Before Sunrise, Found A Quiet Spot And Watched The Mountains Slowly Light Up. Later, We Enjoyed A Peaceful Boat Ride On Phewa Lake And Spent The Evening Walking Around Lakeside.

Even Though We Only Had Three Days, Everything Was Well Coordinated. Our Guide Kept Us On Schedule Without Making Us Feel Rushed. It Was A Short But Memorable Nepal Experience, And We'd Happily Recommend Royal Nepal Holidays To Anyone Working With Limited Vacation Time.

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Mireya Callahan | On May 2026
5 Excellent

A Smooth Nepal Trip With Our Family

We Booked The 3 Days Kathmandu Pokhara Tour With Royal Nepal Holidays Because We Were Traveling As A Family And Didn't Have Much Time In Nepal. From The Airport Pickup Onward, Everything Was Straightforward And Well Organized.

Our Guide Was Especially Helpful With Keeping The Sightseeing Comfortable For Everyone. We Explored Kathmandu Before Traveling To Pokhara, Where The Atmosphere Was Completely Different. The Children Really Enjoyed Phewa Lake, While Sarangkot Was Probably The Favorite Experience For The Adults.

The Hotel Arrangements Were Comfortable, And Having Our Transportation Organized In Advance Made The Trip Much Easier. We Never Had To Worry About Finding A Vehicle Or Figuring Out Where To Go Next.

The Schedule Is Definitely Busy Because There Are Only Three Days, But Owner Sushil Made It Manageable For Our Family. It Was A Great Way To See Two Of Nepal's Most Popular Destinations Without Spending A Long Time Planning Everything Ourselves.

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Soren Whitaker | On June 2026
5 Excellent

Sunrise, Mountains And The Magic Of Pokhara

As Someone Who Travels With A Camera Everywhere, I Was Particularly Excited About The Kathmandu Pokhara Itinerary, And It Didn't Disappoint. Kathmandu Provided Plenty Of Opportunities For Architectural And Cultural Photography, Especially Around The Temples And Historic Streets.

The Real Highlight Came In Pokhara. We Left Early For Sarangkot And Arrived While The Sky Was Still Changing Colors. Watching The First Light Reach The Mountains Was Easily One Of My Favorite Moments Of The Trip. When The Clouds Cleared, We Could See The Himalayan Peaks, Including Machhapuchhre, Which Made The Early Morning Worthwhile.

Later That Day, Phewa Lake Offered A Completely Different Photographic Experience. The Reflections On The Water And The Boats Moving Across The Lake Created Some Beautiful Shots.

Our Guide Deepak Was Also Very Helpful With Timing, Particularly For Sarangkot. Three Days Isn't A Lot Of Time, But Royal Nepal Holidays Organized The Schedule Efficiently And Helped Us Make The Most Of Every Stop. For Anyone Interested In Landscapes And Photography, Pokhara Is Absolutely Worth Visiting.

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Nadine Bellamy | On July 2026
5 Excellent

Perfect Short Introduction To Nepal

We Only Had Three Days In Nepal, So The Kathmandu Pokhara Tour Was Exactly What We Needed. We Visited Some Of Kathmandu's Main Sights Before Traveling To Pokhara, Then Had An Early Morning Visit To Sarangkot And Spent Time Around Phewa Lake. The Scenery In Pokhara Was Fantastic.

Everything Was Organized Smoothly, Including Transportation, Hotel And Sightseeing. Our Guide Was Friendly And Helpful Throughout The Trip, And We Never Felt Lost Or Unsure About The Schedule.

It Was A Busy Three Days, But That's Expected With Such A Short Trip. If You Have Limited Vacation Time And Want To Experience Both Kathmandu And Pokhara, This Is A Great Option.

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Tavian Rousseau | On August 2026
5 Excellent

Well Planned From Kathmandu To Pokhara And Back

We Chose Royal Nepal Holidays For A Short Kathmandu Pokhara Tour After Having Only Three Days Available In Nepal. The Communication Before The Trip Was Clear, And The Airport Pickup Made Our Arrival Very Easy. Hotel Arrangements And Transportation Were Also Handled Without Any Complications.

Our Guide Was Knowledgeable About Both The Historical Sites In Kathmandu And The Attractions Around Pokhara. We Particularly Enjoyed Learning About The Cultural Significance Of The Temples In Kathmandu Rather Than Simply Stopping For Photographs.

The Journey To Pokhara Was Scenic, And The Next Morning's Sarangkot Sunrise Was The Standout Experience. We Also Enjoyed Boating On Phewa Lake And Exploring The Lakeside Area.

The Only Thing To Keep In Mind Is That Three Days Is A Fairly Packed Schedule. However, The Planning Made The Itinerary Feel Manageable, And We Always Knew What Was Happening Next. For Travelers Who Don't Have Much Time But Want To Experience Both Kathmandu And Pokhara, We'd Recommend Considering This Tour.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is 3 days enough for Kathmandu and Pokhara?

Three days is enough for a focused introduction to both cities — one Kathmandu heritage site plus Pokhara's core sights like Sarangkot, Phewa Lake, and Davis Falls — but it will not cover everything either destination offers. Choosing a flight over road travel helps you fit in more sightseeing within the limited time.

How much does a 3-day Kathmandu Pokhara tour cost?

Pricing starts around US$450 for a solo traveler on the Standard package and drops significantly per person in groups, from US$350 pp for two people down to US$275 pp for groups of seven to nine. Private Comfort and Luxury tiers cost more and include upgraded hotels and services. Contact us for a tailored quote.

How do I travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara?

You can travel by tourist bus, private car, private jeep/van, or domestic flight. Road options take roughly 6–7 hours, while the flight takes about 25 minutes. Your choice affects both cost and how much time you have for sightseeing.

Can I travel by tourist bus?

Yes, the tourist bus is available as part of the Standard package and is the most budget-friendly option, though it takes the longest and offers less flexibility than a private vehicle.

Can I travel by private car?

Yes, a private car is included in the Private Comfort and Luxury packages, offering flexible stops, more comfort, and privacy compared to the shared tourist bus.

Can I fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara?

Yes, a domestic flight can be added to any package tier as an upgrade. It takes about 25 minutes and is the best option if your three days are tight or you want to maximize sightseeing time over road travel.

Does the package include accommodation?

Yes, two nights of hotel accommodation are included, with your choice of Standard (3-star), Private Comfort (4-star), or Luxury (5-star) categories.

Is breakfast included?

Yes, daily breakfast is included in all package tiers. Lunch and dinner are not included by default but can be added on request.

Can I customize the itinerary?

Yes, this is a private tour and the pace, sightseeing order, hotel category, and transportation mode can all be adjusted to suit your schedule, interests, and budget.

Is this tour suitable for families?

Yes, the itinerary involves no trekking and only short walks at each site, making it comfortable for children and grandparents alike. The early Sarangkot start can be adjusted or skipped if needed.

Is it suitable for senior travelers?

Yes, all sightseeing is vehicle-based with minimal walking, though the pre-dawn Sarangkot departure and cold morning temperatures are worth preparing for with warm layers.

What is the best season?

Autumn (September–November) offers the most reliable mountain visibility, spring (March–May) combines pleasant weather with generally good views, winter suits travelers who prefer fewer crowds, and monsoon (June–August) suits budget travelers comfortable with rain and reduced visibility.

Can I add Chitwan?

Yes, this itinerary can be extended to include a Chitwan jungle safari — ask us about our Kathmandu Pokhara Chitwan Tour options for a longer combined package.

Can I extend the trip?

Yes, the itinerary can be extended to 4, 5, 6, or more days to add fuller Kathmandu sightseeing, a second Pokhara day, or destinations like Chitwan, Lumbini, or Muktinath.

Does Royal Nepal Holidays provide airport pickup?

Yes, airport transfers are arranged as part of your booking — let us know your flight details in advance so your pickup can be coordinated smoothly.

Popular
From USD 350
per person (price varies by group size)
Group Discount Offers
Special discounts are available based on the number of travelers in your group.
Group Price Per Person
1 Pax USD 450
2 Paxes USD 350
3-6 Paxes USD 300
7-10 Paxes USD 275
Note: Contact us for larger groups
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