Trip Durations
5 Nights / 6 Days
4.9
| 5 Nights / 6 Days | Kathmandu - Pokhara - Kathmandu
Nepal is a country where snow-capped Himalayan peaks rise directly above medieval temple squares, and nowhere is that contrast easier to experience than on a Kathmandu Pokhara Tour. This 6-day Nepal Kathmandu Pokhara Tour combines the two most visited cities in the country: Kathmandu, the ancient capital packed with UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and Pokhara, the laid-back lakeside city facing the Annapurna range.
If you are searching for a Kathmandu Pokhara Tour Package, a Kathmandu and Pokhara Tour Package from Royal Nepal Holidays, or simply the Best Kathmandu Pokhara Tour Package for a short Nepal holiday, this itinerary is built to answer every question you have before booking — cost, itinerary, best time to travel, transport options, safety, and more.
Kathmandu gives you the temples, stupas, and living heritage of the Kathmandu Valley: Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. Pokhara gives you the natural side of Nepal: Phewa Lake, the Annapurna panorama from Sarangkot, waterfalls, caves, and a genuinely relaxed pace of travel. Together, they form a Kathmandu Pokhara Holiday Package that works equally well as a Kathmandu Pokhara Family Tour, a Kathmandu Pokhara Honeymoon Package, or a Kathmandu Pokhara Private Tour for friends and solo travelers.
This is one of the most searched Nepal tour itineraries for a simple reason: it is short enough to fit into a standard vacation window, yet complete enough to leave you with a real understanding of Nepal's culture, history, and mountain scenery. Whether this is your first trip to Nepal or your fifth, a Kathmandu Pokhara Trip remains the most efficient way to see the best of both worlds in one holiday.
Royal Nepal Holidays operates this Kathmandu Pokhara Tour as both a fixed group departure and a fully customizable private tour, with experienced local guides, licensed drivers, and 24/7 on-ground support throughout your Nepal Vacation.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Duration | 6 Days / 5 Nights |
| Destinations | Kathmandu, Pokhara |
| Maximum Altitude | 1,592 m (Sarangkot) |
| Accommodation | 3-star to 5-star hotels (Standard, Deluxe, Luxury options) |
| Meals | Breakfast daily; lunch and dinner as per itinerary |
| Transportation | Private vehicle or tourist bus; optional domestic flight |
| Group Size | 1–15 people (private and group departures) |
| Tour Style | Sightseeing, cultural, leisure |
| Best Season | September to May |
| Trip Starts/Ends | Kathmandu |
| Trip Grade | Easy — suitable for all ages |

Drive Duration: 30–45 Minutes
Accommodation: Standard/Deluxe/Luxury Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals: Not Included
Welcome to Nepal! Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Royal Nepal Holidays will warmly greet you outside the arrival terminal with a personalized welcome sign. After a traditional Nepali welcome, you will be transferred to your hotel in the heart of Kathmandu.
As you drive through the bustling streets, you'll get your first glimpse of Nepal's vibrant culture, colorful temples, prayer flags, and lively local markets. After checking in, enjoy some time to relax and recover from your journey.
In the evening, your tour guide will meet you for a comprehensive briefing about the upcoming Kathmandu & Pokhara Tour. You'll receive important travel information, an overview of the itinerary, and recommendations on local customs, currency exchange, and optional activities.
If time permits, take a leisurely walk around the popular Thamel district, famous for its souvenir shops, cafés, restaurants, trekking gear stores, and vibrant nightlife.
Overnight: Kathmandu
Sightseeing Duration: 7–8 Hours
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, begin a fascinating cultural journey through Kathmandu Valley, home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites that showcase Nepal's rich history, spirituality, and artistic heritage.
Visit Nepal's most sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Observe traditional rituals along the sacred Bagmati River and admire the stunning pagoda-style architecture. The temple complex offers a deep insight into Hindu beliefs and centuries-old traditions.
Continue to one of the world's largest Buddhist stupas. Surrounded by monasteries, prayer wheels, and Tibetan shops, Boudhanath offers a peaceful atmosphere where monks chant prayers while colorful prayer flags flutter in the breeze.
Perched atop a hill overlooking Kathmandu Valley, Swayambhunath is one of Nepal's oldest religious monuments. Climb the ancient stone steps to enjoy panoramic city views while exploring shrines, monasteries, and playful monkeys.
End the day exploring Kathmandu Durbar Square, once the royal palace of the Malla kings. Wander through beautifully carved temples, courtyards, and historical monuments while learning about Nepal's royal history and traditional Newari architecture.
In the evening, return to your hotel for a relaxing overnight stay.
Overnight: Kathmandu
Option 1: Tourist Bus – 7 to 8 Hours
Option 2: Domestic Flight – 25 Minutes
Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, travel to Pokhara, Nepal's beautiful lakeside city and gateway to the Annapurna Himalayas.
If traveling by road, the scenic journey follows the Trishuli and Marsyangdi Rivers through charming villages, lush hills, terraced farms, waterfalls, and dramatic mountain landscapes. Along the way, you'll witness authentic rural life and changing scenery that make Nepal so unique.
Travelers choosing the domestic flight will enjoy spectacular aerial views of the Himalayan range before landing in Pokhara.
Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend the remainder of the day relaxing around the peaceful Lakeside area. You may enjoy boating on Phewa Lake, browse local handicraft shops, or unwind at one of the many cafés overlooking the lake.
Overnight: Pokhara
Sightseeing Duration: 7–8 Hours
Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara
Meals: Breakfast
Wake up early for an unforgettable sunrise excursion to Sarangkot, one of Nepal's most famous viewpoints.
Watch the first golden rays illuminate the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Manaslu mountain ranges. The breathtaking panorama is one of the most memorable experiences in Nepal.
Return to the hotel for breakfast before beginning your city sightseeing tour.
Enjoy a peaceful boat ride across Pokhara's iconic lake while admiring reflections of the surrounding hills and snow-capped peaks. Visit Tal Barahi Temple situated on a small island in the middle of the lake.
Explore the famous waterfall where the Pardi Khola disappears into an underground tunnel, creating one of Pokhara's most visited natural attractions.
Located opposite Davis Falls, this sacred cave houses a revered Shiva shrine and offers impressive underground limestone formations.
Perched on a hilltop, this beautiful white stupa offers sweeping panoramic views of Pokhara Valley, Phewa Lake, and the Annapurna mountain range.
Learn about Nepal's mountaineering history, Himalayan culture, famous climbers, and the unique lifestyles of mountain communities.
Visit one of Pokhara's oldest Hindu temples dedicated to Goddess Bhagwati, offering peaceful surroundings and impressive views of the nearby mountains.
Return to your hotel after a memorable day of sightseeing.
Overnight: Pokhara
Option 1: Tourist Bus – 7 to 8 Hours
Option 2: Domestic Flight – 25 Minutes
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, travel back to Kathmandu by tourist bus or domestic flight.
Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy a free afternoon for independent exploration.
You may choose to:
This is the perfect opportunity to purchase souvenirs, pashmina shawls, singing bowls, handmade crafts, tea, spices, and local artwork.
Overnight: Kathmandu
Drive Duration: 30–45 Minutes
Meals: Breakfast (subject to flight schedule)
After breakfast, enjoy your final moments in Nepal before checking out of your hotel.
A representative from Royal Nepal Holidays will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport approximately three hours before your international departure.
As your Kathmandu & Pokhara Tour comes to an end, you'll leave Nepal with unforgettable memories of ancient temples, sacred heritage sites, breathtaking Himalayan views, tranquil lakes, and the warm hospitality of the Nepali people.
We look forward to welcoming you back for your next adventure, whether it's trekking to Everest Base Camp, exploring Chitwan National Park, visiting Lumbini, or discovering the beauty of Annapurna and beyond.
End of Tour
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| Group Size | Price Per Person |
|---|---|
| 1 Pax | US $700 |
| 2–5 Pax | US $600 |
| 6–9 Pax | US $550 |
| 10–15 Pax | US $500 |
Prices are per person, based on the itinerary and inclusions listed above. Final pricing may vary based on hotel category (Standard/Deluxe/Luxury), choice of transport (road vs. domestic flight), and any optional activities or extensions added to the tour. Contact Royal Nepal Holidays for a customized quotation.
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| Category | Kathmandu | Pokhara | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 3-star hotel, Thamel or city center | 3-star hotel, Lakeside | Budget-conscious travelers |
| Deluxe | 4-star hotel with valley/city views | 4-star lakeside hotel | Most travelers seeking comfort |
| Luxury | 5-star hotel or heritage property | Premium lakeside resort | Travelers wanting a higher-end stay |
| Family | Family rooms or connecting rooms | Family rooms with lake view | Families traveling with children |
| Honeymoon Upgrade | Deluxe room with valley view | Lake-view room, romantic dinner option | Couples on a Kathmandu Pokhara Honeymoon Package |
Royal Nepal Holidays can adjust hotel category independently for Kathmandu and Pokhara — for example, standard in Kathmandu and deluxe in Pokhara — based on your preference and budget.
| Mode | Duration | Cost Level | Comfort | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Domestic Flight | 25 minutes | Higher | High | Travelers short on time, or preferring to skip the road journey |
| Tourist Bus | 6–7 hours | Lower | Moderate | Budget travelers comfortable with a full-day road journey |
| Private Vehicle | 6–7 hours | Moderate to higher | High | Families, couples, and groups wanting flexibility and stops en route |
Should you fly or drive to Pokhara? If your schedule is tight or you prefer to maximize sightseeing time, the flight is worth the extra cost. If you enjoy scenic road travel and want to see rural hill villages, terraced farmland, and river valleys along the Prithvi Highway, the drive is a genuinely rewarding part of the trip, not just a transfer.
| Season | Months | Weather | Crowd Levels | Recommended For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Autumn | September–November | Clear skies, stable weather, best mountain visibility | High | Best overall season; peak time for Sarangkot sunrise views |
| Winter | December–February | Cool, dry, clear mornings; cold at Sarangkot | Moderate | Clear mountain views with fewer crowds |
| Spring | March–May | Warm, rhododendrons in bloom, generally clear | High | Second-best season; good visibility and pleasant temperatures |
| Summer/Monsoon | June–August | Hot, humid, frequent rain, hazy mountain views | Low | Budget travel and fewer tourists, but reduced mountain visibility |
Autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) offer the clearest Himalayan views and the most comfortable travel conditions, making them the best time for a Kathmandu Pokhara Tour. Winter is a good option if you prioritize fewer crowds over guaranteed sunrise clarity. Monsoon season is workable for cultural sightseeing in Kathmandu but reduces the odds of clear mountain views in Pokhara.
Documents
Clothing
Essentials
Seasonal Additions
Royal Nepal Holidays, owned by Sushil Tiwari, has built this Kathmandu Pokhara Tour around genuine local knowledge rather than a copy-paste itinerary. Our guides — including Bashu, Chandra, and Uttam — are chosen for their depth of knowledge on Kathmandu Valley heritage sites and the Pokhara Valley's natural landmarks, not just for reciting facts.
Excellent
Yes. In six days, this tour covers four UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu and the best natural and cultural attractions in Pokhara, giving you a genuinely complete introduction to Nepal without requiring weeks of travel time.
Five to six days is generally enough to see the major highlights of both cities comfortably, with two full sightseeing days in each destination and a travel day between them. Shorter trips are possible but feel rushed.
They serve different purposes rather than competing directly. Kathmandu is better for history, temples, and heritage sites, while Pokhara is better for natural scenery, lake views, and a relaxed pace. Most travelers find the combination more rewarding than either city alone.
September to November and March to May offer the clearest mountain views and the most comfortable weather. Winter is a good alternative for fewer crowds, while monsoon season (June–August) is workable for Kathmandu but reduces mountain visibility in Pokhara.
Pricing depends on group size: US $700 per person for 1 pax, US $600 for 2–5 pax, US $550 for 6–9 pax, and US $500 for 10–15 pax. Costs vary further based on hotel category and choice of transport.
Yes, a 5-day version of this itinerary is possible by tightening the Kathmandu sightseeing to one full day and flying rather than driving to Pokhara to save travel time.
Yes, Pokhara is considered one of the safer and more tourist-friendly cities in Nepal, with a well-developed Lakeside tourist area and low rates of serious crime against visitors.
Yes, with standard travel precautions. Tourist areas such as Thamel are well accustomed to international visitors, though it is wise to stay alert around crowded sites and use registered taxis or arranged transport.
Fly if you are short on time or prefer to avoid a full day on the road. Drive if you want to see rural hill scenery along the way and don't mind a 6–7 hour journey; the road itself is a scenic part of the experience.
Light layers for daytime, a warm jacket for the early morning at Sarangkot, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a rain jacket if traveling during the monsoon season. See the full packing list above.
Airport transfers, hotel accommodation, daily breakfast, private vehicle transportation, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees to listed sites, and boating on Phewa Lake are included. See the full inclusions and exclusions sections above.
Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport. Check current requirements for your nationality before travel, as policies can change.
Yes. The itinerary is easy-grade with minimal walking, making it suitable for a Kathmandu Pokhara Family Tour with children of most ages.
Yes. Private vehicle transport throughout and a relaxed daily pace make this a comfortable option for senior travelers, though those with mobility limitations should note the steps at Swayambhunath and the walk to the World Peace Pagoda.
Yes. Royal Nepal Holidays can adjust hotel category, transport mode, number of days, and add optional activities or extensions such as Chitwan or Lumbini.
Standard, Deluxe, and Luxury hotel categories are available in both Kathmandu and Pokhara, including family rooms and honeymoon upgrades. See the accommodation table above.
Yes, airport pickup and drop-off in Kathmandu are included in every package.
You'll have the chance to try Dal Bhat, momo, Thakali sets, and Newari cuisine, alongside a wide range of international options in Pokhara's Lakeside cafés. Vegetarian and dietary-specific options are available on request.
A Royal Nepal Holidays representative will meet you at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer you by private vehicle, included in your package.
The highest point is Sarangkot at approximately 1,592 meters, which is a low altitude and does not carry any risk of altitude sickness.
Yes, paragliding in Pokhara is a popular optional add-on that fits well into the Day 4 or Day 5 schedule, subject to weather conditions.
Yes, Wi-Fi is widely available at hotels, cafés, and restaurants throughout Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Travel insurance is not included but is strongly recommended, particularly if you plan to add optional activities such as paragliding or an ultra-light flight.
The local currency is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). USD is easily exchanged at banks and licensed money changers in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Contact Royal Nepal Holidays directly for a customized itinerary and free quotation, or use the booking request form to reserve your preferred travel dates.
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Our 6-day Kathmandu And Pokhara Tour With Royal Nepal Holidays Was The Perfect Introduction To Nepal. Kathmandu Fascinated Us With Its Ancient Temples And UNESCO World Heritage Sites, While Pokhara Offered A Peaceful Atmosphere With Stunning Himalayan Views. Watching The Sunrise From Sarangkot Was Unforgettable, And Boating On Phewa Lake Was Incredibly Relaxing.
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We Traveled As A Family Of Five, Including Two Children And My Parents, And This Kathmandu & Pokhara Tour Was Ideal For Everyone. The Sightseeing Was Interesting Without Feeling Rushed, And The Kids Especially Loved Feeding Pigeons At Boudhanath And Boating On Phewa Lake. My Parents Appreciated The Comfortable Hotels And The Friendly Pace Of The Tour. The Guide Made Every Destination Engaging By Sharing Local Stories Rather Than Just Historical Facts.
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