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5 Days Nepal Tour – Explore Kathmandu and Pokhara

Sarangkot Mountain Hill Sunrise
fewa lake
Pashupatinath
Duration5 Days
Trip GradeEasy
Maximum Altitude1600 M
ActivitiesTours
Group Size2
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
Best TimeRound of the year

Nepal is a wonderful country, rich in Nature, Culture, and History. Practically, exploring Nepal in 5 days is not possible. However, it is indeed possible to visit Nepal’s best cities and heritage sites. This 5 days Nepal Tour package is designed with a similar motto that takes you through the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Serene Lakes, Mystical places, Valley’s culture, and magical mountains. Day one, you’ll be exploring the bustling city of Kathmandu among the sea of crowds. The next day, you’ll be completely in Nature when you watch the sunrise over the Himalayas from Sarangkot. This beautiful mix is done on purpose to provide you with a unique and worthwhile time here in Nepal.

At Real Adventure Nepal, we know how to take care of our travelers. From your flights, guides, hotels, transport, and safety, we manage everything. You have just one job in Nepal, and that is to explore with your heart out. No matter you are a solo traveler, a group of friends, family, senior citizens, or a couple, we welcome you with hospitality and ensure you enjoy your time.

Tour Highlights 

  • A beautiful and amazing flight over the Himalayas from Kathmandu, the capital, to Pokhara
  • A tour of the Kathmandu Valley's main UNESCO World Heritage Sites
  • Explore the Monkey Temple (Swayambhunath), the most praised temple of Lord Shiva (Pashupatinath), and the tranquil stupa in the middle of the bustling city (Boudhanath)
  • Enjoy a peaceful boat trip on Fewa Lake and go to the Tal Barahi Temple.
  • See sunrise over the Himalayas from the Sarangkot viewpoint.
  • Tour to old temples and palaces like Patan Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square 
  • Experience local culture, religion, and architecture
  • Visit natural wonders like Mahendra Cave and Davis’s Falls.
  • Enjoy the scenes of the Annapurna mountain range from the Shanti Stupa (World Peace Pagoda)
  • Adventure work like paragliding(optional) in Pokhara
  • Safe transportation and comfortable accommodation in one of the best hotels across all the 5 days tour of Nepal.

Tour Summary at a Glance

Features 

Details 

Trip Duration

5 days / 4 Nights  

Cities

Kathmandu and Pokhara 

Maximum Altitude 

1,590 m at the Sarangkot Viewpoint

Main Activities 

Sightseeing of heritages, Visit to ancient temples, Fewa lake boating, Sunrise at Sarangkot, Royal Palaces’ exploration

Accommodation Standard

Comfortable 3-star hotel in prime cities 

Physical Involvement 

Easy to moderate, suitable for most travelers 

Guides 

Local, Experienced, and Licensed 

Trip Flexibility

Customizable add-ons available, including extra sightseeing, adventure activities, or longer stays

Itinerary

5 Days Nepal Tour to Kathmandu and Pokhara – explore heritage sites, Pashupatinath, Durbar Squares, lakes, caves, and sunrise views. Best short Nepal tour for families and couples.

Trip PlanExpand all

On your first day, you’ll arrive at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. This will generally be in the afternoon. As soon as you arrive, our friendly representative will greet you. Then, they will help you get to your hotel.

In your hotel, have some rest after the check-in. Now it's time to begin your first cultural tour in Kathmandu. We’ll take you to the famous Swaayambunath Stupa, also known as Monkey Temple. This is an ancient Buddhist temple that sits on a hilltop. You’ll see a beautiful view of the Kathmandu Valley from here. It is one of the holiest pilgrimage places for Buddhists and is equally honored by Hindus. The prayer wheels (you can spin them as well), peaceful mantras, and a fantastic sunset will give you a spiritual and visual joy.

This is your first glance at Nepali culture, local life, and the lively environment of the city. In the evening, you can walk around the Thamel area, which is more active at night. Visit local shops, cafes, and handicrafts.

Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu
Altitude: 1400 m
Highlights: Swayambunath, views of Kathmandu Valley, introduction to local culture

Max Altitude: 1400m Accommodation: Hotel

Firstly, have your breakfast. After that, your guided tour starts where you roam around Kathmandu Valley. Let us tell you something exciting! There are 7 UNESCO World Heritage sites in Kathmandu. Guess what? We'll probably be visiting all of them today if time permits. 

The starting destination is the Pashupatinath area. It is where Lord Shiva's 'Shivalinga' was believed to have originated (not man-made). The tale is quite interesting, and your guides will tell you in detail. The most noticeable part about this holy region is the cremation of bodies. The calmness and true meaning of life, people realize on seeing the cremation of bodies, is unexplainable. There’s not a single day at Pashupatinath when a cremation does not take place. This holy place is mainly overcrowded during the festival of Mahashivaratri (in February).

Then visit Budhanath Stupa, one of the largest stupas in Asia. This peaceful Buddhist place is surrounded by prayer flags, spinning wheels, and Tibetan monasteries. You can walk around the stupa, spin the wheels, and spend your time in the peaceful environment.

You'll visit the Patan Durbar Square in the afternoon. Our team will take you there. The Newari architecture in Patan will amaze you. Moreover, some old temples and museums are also present in the area, hiding historical stories. Remember to ask your guides about those stories and ancient traditions. They will pique your curiosity with facts and knowledge. 

After that, go to the Kathmandu Durbar Square. This is another exciting historic place where you can find temples and courtyards preserved from history. If your destiny allows it, you may also see Kumari, the Living Goddess. If that happens, keep in mind that you are in front of an entity that Nepalis worship, and behave accordingly.

Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Highlights: Visit to UNESCO World Heritage Sites and palaces 

Max Altitude: 1400m Meals: BAccommodation: HotelDuration: 5-6 hours

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the domestic terminal of Kathmandu airport for your small and beautiful flight to Pokhara. This 25 minute flight provides fantastic views of the Himalayas, including Manaslu, Dhaulagiri, and Annapurna.

Upon arrival, our local team in Pokhara will pick you up and take you to your hotel by the lakeside. After being fresh and comfortable, you’ll start a half-day city tour in Pokhara. Here are some of the important destinations you’ll visit in Pokhara.

Davis Falls

Your team generally starts with Davis Falls. It's a wonder of nature in itself because the falling water suddenly disappears in an underground tunnel. It is more dramatic during the monsoon season.

The history behind the name is quite interesting. Well, it's your guide’s job to explain that. But, in short, it's named after a Swiss woman, ‘Devi’, who died while trying to find out where the water goes.

Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave

Unlike the falls, the Gupteshwar Mahadev Cave is a sacred Hindu place with a natural Shiva Lingam. You will have to go through a narrow path to discover this mysterious place.

International Mountain Museum

Then visit the International Mountains Museum to learn about the mountain climbing history of Nepal, famous expeditions and the culture of people in the mountains, like the Sherpas.

Fewa Lake and Tal Barahi Temple

After the dinner, you can enjoy a peaceful boat trip on Fewa Lake. In the middle of the Lake, there is a temple known as Tal Barahi. Watch it closely while boating. Another beautiful view is the reflection of Machhapuchhre on the Lake. The scene is so mesmerizing that none of our past guests could wait to click its picture.

After experiencing this in the afternoon, the evening is free for you to walk on the edge of the lively lakes with a café, souvenir shops, and a comfortable vibe.

Overnight: Hotel in Pokhara 
Altitude: 822 meters
Highlights: Fly to Pokhara, Davis Falls, Gupteswar Cave, Mountain Museum, Fewa Lake Boating

Max Altitude: 822m Meals: BAccommodation: HotelDuration: 5-6 hours

Your fourth day in Nepal will be more scenic. And why not? We want your last day before returning to be memorable for a lifetime. Early in the morning, even before you have your breakfast, you will be taken by your guides on a comfortable ride to the Sarangkot hill, located at about 1,590 meters above sea level. 

We cannot explain to you through a handwritten note about how beautiful the scenery becomes when the snow-covered peaks of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri get hit by the first rays of the sun. You have to witness it yourself. Take your time to soak in the magnificence of nature and return for your breakfast. Soon after you have your breakfast, you will be ready to say goodbye to Pokhara. 

You, along with your team, will then head to the Pokhara International Airport to depart for Kathmandu. While returning to the capital city, you will realize that you are not alone. A connection to the land of wonders continues as Pokhara feels traveling alongside you.

Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the afternoon is free. You can find out the markets of Asan and Indra Chowk, or visit the peaceful Garden of Dreams located in Tridevi Marg. 

Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu
Altitude: 1,590 m
Highlights: Sarangkot sunrise view, Scenic flight back to Kathmandu

Max Altitude: 1400m Meals: BAccommodation: HotelDuration: 4-5 hours

Your excitement will slow down a bit today. Now it’s finally time to return home after all these memorable moments. Take your final breakfast in Nepal. Go out to buy something to remember Nepal if you have enough time. 

A team member of ours will be waiting for you in a car to take you to the airport. Finally, when the fight time is near, you'll reach the place where you started this whole journey. We, the whole support staff, will try our best to be there for your farewell.

This is how your short but accomplished 5 days tour in Nepal ends. We, from Real Adventure Nepal, hope that you collected beautiful memories that will last forever with you.  We also hope that you'll return Nepal again for your next and even bigger tour and trust us once again.

We'll be waiting until next time. 

Goodbye!

Highlights: Airport drop, farewell assistance

Meals: BDuration: 20 min
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Cost Details
Included
  • Transportation for airport transfers and sightseeing.
  • Accommodation for the duration of the tour.
  • Entrance fees to heritage sites and attractions.
  • Guided tours with knowledgeable English-speaking guides.
  • Daily breakfast at the hotels.
  • Scenic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Pokhara to Kathmandu.
  • Boat ride on Phewa Lake in Pokhara.
Excluded
  • International airfare to and from Nepal.
  • Visa fees for entry into Nepal.
  • Travel insurance.
  • Meals (other than breakfast), snacks, and beverages.
  • Personal expenses such as souvenirs and optional activities.
  • Gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff.
Essential Information

5 days nepal tour packages

Packing List for 5 days Nepal Tour

It is a short cultural tour and having the right items will help you be comfortable and ready for all seasons and activities.

Clothing

  • Light t-shirts and shirts with long sleeves (for sun and modesty in temples)
  • A warm jacket or windsuit (needed in the morning and evening, especially in Sarangot)
  • Comfortable pants or jeans
  • A light raincoat or umbrella (especially from June to September)
  • A scarf or shawl for a temple tour for ladies (not mandatory, but it will show your respect towards the culture)

Footwears

  • Comfortable shoes 
  • Flip-flops or sandals (for use in hotels and while boating)
  • Mandatory to bring with you
  • Photocopy of passport, visa, and important documents (ask us before you depart)
  • A camera or smartphone with a charger
  • Personal medications

Important items ( Can be managed in Kathmandu )

  • Sunscreen and sunglasses
  • Sun hat
  • Reusable water bottle 
  • Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, etc.)
  • Small daypack for city tour
  • Cash in Nepali rupees (many local stores do not accept cards)

Others and optional

  • Mild snacks (granola bar, nuts, etc.)
  • Binoculars (to see the mountain from Sarangkot)
  • Books or travel magazines

For 5 Days Nepal Tour

5 days Nepal Tour

Accommodation 

We ensure your comfortable accommodation at Real Adventure Nepal. Throughout the tour, your stay will be in a clean, comfortable, and centrally located hotel. To be precise, your accommodation in Kathmandu will be in a 3-star hotel near Thamel (option includes Hotel Holy Himalaya, Samsara Resort, or equivalent, based on availability). Likewise, in Pokhara, you’ll be staying in a lakeside hotel with a scenic view of Fewa Lake. The option includes Hotel Lake Star, Mount Kailash Resort, or similar, based on availability.

Meal Options 

Internationally, Nepal has a reputation for offering diverse food items representing various cuisines. You will find a variety, from local dishes to continental, Indian, Chinese, Tibetan, and even European dishes. Also, from non-veg to vegan options, you can find everything you desire. We’ll provide you with breakfast every day, and for the rest of the meals, you can try anything you want, which can be easily arranged in the same hotel where you stay. 

We recommend you try some popular local dishes like: Dal Bhat (lentils with rice and vegetables), Momo (Nepali dumplings), Thukpa (Tibetan noodle soup), Sel Roti (sweet rice bread), and Newari cuisine in Patan (for food lovers).

Transportation

All of your transportation costs, excluding your international flight tickets, will be arranged by us. For the ground transport, it will be a private ride in a jeep or van, depending on your group size. The flight travels include a scenic flight to Pokhara from Kathmandu and vice versa, while returning. These will be operated by a reliable airline of Nepal with excellent safety records.

5 days Nepal Tour - Overview During Four Seasons

swayambhunath temple in kathmandu

This trip is a rewarding excursion in all four seasons, each providing a unique experience. However, it is indeed your right and important as well to learn about all those unique experiences. Here’s an overview of each season and the kind of experience you’ll get while touring Nepal in those respective seasons. 

Spring - March to May

Spring welcomes a large volume of tourists to Nepal. The main reason is obviously the perfect weather conditions and the most beautiful form of nature. By perfect weather conditions, we mean the mild temperatures ( 15°C to 28°C ), clear skies, and low humidity in Kathmandu and Pokhara. And by the most beautiful form of nature, we mean the beauty brought by the blooming flowers and colors.

This time of the year is perfect for sightseeing, photography, and the Sarangkot sunrise view. Flowers like Rhododendron and Jacaranda paint the green hills and temple courtyards in different colors. Those who have been to Nepal before, during this time of year, often feel pleased with their experience. The only thing that this season lacks is the peaceful trails and tourist zones because of its popularity among visitors.

Summer/Monsoon - June to August

The Summer season from June to August brings a very few number of visitors to Nepal. The weather in the season is generally warm with temperatures ranging from  20°C to 30°C during the day. During the monsoon, frequent rainfalls (often daily) and humidity are common. Due to this, the trails become slippery, and the risks of floods and landslides always threaten people in most parts of the country. This makes the season the most avoidable one. 

However, we are not trekking on any trails or moving to a flood/landslide-prone area. That’s why the trip becomes uniquely rewarding in all the different seasons for this tour. Yes, if you hate frequent rainfalls, this season might be troublesome for you. But on the other hand, if you love them, no other season can satisfy you like this. Just imagine exploring the Fewa Lake on a boat, while it's still raining. The peaceful environment due to fewer trekkers can be a bonus for your tour. 

Autumn - September to November

Autumn is the peak tourist season in Nepal, which brings thousands of trekkers and tourists. This season, being the post-monsoon (after the monsoon rain stops ), has pleasant weather with mild temperatures ( 12°C to 27°C ), dry trails, and clear skies. This makes it one of the best times to visit the Himalayas and seek photography. 

For our 5 days trip, the autumn weather is perfect for sightseeing in Kathmandu, touring in Pokhara, and enjoying the scenery from Sarangkot. Moreover, you might get a chance to explore and even participate in the Hindus’ biggest festivals —  Dashain and Tihar, which last for a month. All these make the Autumn the peak season. However, since everyone likes to travel in the best season, overcrowding can still be an issue. We recommend that you book your packages and flights early, ahead of time, if you plan to visit the 5 days Nepal tour in the Autumn.

Winter - December to February 

Winter is calm, cool, and less crowded. The only reason for its being less crowded is its harsh 

cold in the mountain region. The Kathmandu valley itself is 1,400m high above sea level, and faces cold temperatures of about 5°C - 20°C or even below. Especially the mornings and evenings are quite cold. However, for scenes and sightseeing, it's equally rewarding. The Himalayas are more beautiful due to extra snowfall, and the views are clear.

If you are from a cold region and have experience in 5 degrees or below, you can enjoy the trip without any problem. Even if you are not from a colder region, with perfect preparation and winter knowledge, your journey can be fun. We recommend that you bring warm jackets, gloves, scarves, and dress in layers if you are planning the trip in Winter. Being ready to face the cold helps you make your winter vacation a lot more special and pleasant.

Which one to choose?

Since you’ve found out that each season provides a unique experience, there is no best season for this 5 days Nepal tour that matches your choices the most. Understand the experience you are getting in each of the seasons and ask yourself, when would be more comfortable? Choose the season accordingly. And do not hesitate to talk to us, for any reasonconfusion or query. We are here for you 24/7. 

Travel Tips for a 5 days Nepal Tour

phewa lake pokhara

Is this gonna be your first visit to Nepal? If so, these useful tips will make your journey smooth, safe, and more fun. Whether you are looking for old temples or boating at Fewa Lake, this insight from Real Adventure Nepal will help you feel informed and prepared.

Respect local customs and culture

Nepal is a deeply spiritual country where Buddhism and Hinduism are in coexistence. Showing respect to the religion and culture can earn you good hospitality, especially when visiting religious places such as Pashupatinath and Swayambhunath. Always remove your shoes before entering temples and monasteries. If you are visiting the monasteries, walk around them in a clockwise direction. Last but not least, always ask permission before taking pictures of the locals or monks.

Carry local currency with you

Nepali Rupee (NPR) is the local currency. Many small shops and cafes may only accept cash.

ATMs are available in Kathmandu and Pokhara, but may have withdrawal limits, and even charges can be higher. You can exchange the currency in official counters at the airport or ask us for help.

Choose safe and clean food

Keeping yourself safe by maintaining your health is very crucial, especially when you're abroad. So, better stick to bottled or filtered water to keep yourself hydrated. Eat only at reliable restaurants or hotels recommended by your guide. You can try local dishes like Momo, Dal Bhat, or Thukpa, but make sure it is fresh and well-cooked. If possible, always carry hand sanitizers and tissue paper with you on the city trip or day trips.

Be ready for weather changes

Kathmandu and Pokhara can be warm during the day, but cooler in the morning and evening. A light jacket or fleece is useful, especially when you go to visit the sunrise in Sarangkot in the morning. No matter when you are travelling, always carry an umbrella with you as Pokhara’s weather is unpredictable. Pokhara is a place that receives one of the highest amounts of rainfall in Nepal, and if you are traveling from June to September, you need to pack a raincoat.

Internet, SIM card, and connection

Free Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, cafes, and tourist spots. However, to improve your experience, you can also buy a local SIM card (eg, Ncell or NTC) for calls and data. Getting them is easy and not so expensive as well. You’ll need your passport and a photo for registration. Our support team can help you get connected after your arrival.

Tipping is good

Tipping is not compulsory, but if you are happy with their services, you can tip your guide, driver, or porter. A small tip at restaurants (5 -10%) is enough and valued.

Travel insurance is recommended

Even on small trips, travel insurance that covers flight delays, medical emergencies, and loss of luggage is very important to get as soon as you arrive. If you want help choosing a policy before the trip, Real Adventure Nepal can guide you.

Security and emergency contact

Nepal is generally safe for tourists, especially in cities such as Kathmandu and Pokhara. Keep the passport copy and emergency contact number with you at all times. Follow the instructions from your guide, especially during flights or busy market visits.

FAQs

Yes, Nepal is a safe and welcoming country for foreigners. Cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara are very familiar with Tourists. You can expect a safe journey with memorable experiences.

Even though the tour is available all year, visiting Nepal is best in the Spring (March to May) when nature is truly at its peak, and the Autumn (September to November) when there is clear weather and a festive environment.

Yes, you’ll need a visa. This can be obtained upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan International airport. You’ll need a valid Passport (6 months validity), a passport-sized photo, and a fee for the Visa, which is generally US$30 for the first 15 days. However, filling out the online application in advance ( 15 days before the trek) can save you time at the airport.

The tour does not require extreme fitness. It's a soft tour which includes short walks and sightseeing. To date, several senior citizens as well as children have completed this tour without any difficulty.

Yes, when you are in Kathmandu and Pokhara, you can expect satisfactory internet access as all hotels and restaurants do have this facility. However, your connection can be slower and unreliable in Sarangkot hill.

The cost of the tour may vary due to the traveling season, group size, and the kind of package you are selecting. Real Adventure Nepal provides you with various package options. So, contact us to know the breakdown of the tour according to your preferences. A standard package can cost USD 550 – USD 650 per person with 2-4 persons in the group.

Our guides are mostly native Nepali and fluent in English, with experience in guiding over thousands of tourists. Besides, some can also speak Hindi and other languages with good ease.

Yes, you’ll have some leisure time on your tour. You can utilize this time to explore the local markets and shops nearby on your own and buy something that reminds you of Nepal.

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Why With Us?

At Real Adventure Nepal, we offer trips and lifetime adventure experiences. Whether you are an adventurer or want to rejuvenate yourself in tranquillity, we can satisfy your travel urge. Our expert guides will handle safety concerns and the best travel experiences to show you around breathtakingly beautiful Nepal and its rich culture.

From personalized services and high-quality accommodations to making every journey special, Real Adventure Nepal is the one to trust for adventure, exploration, and cultural discovery. Choose us for the adventure of a lifetime, designed just for you!