Kathmandu and Pokhara Tour - 6 days

What’s Included in the Package Price — and What Isn’t

We’ve been running this tour since 2000, so we know the questions that come up after booking. Here’s a straightforward breakdown before you commit.

What Your Package Covers

• 3 nights in Kathmandu (standard 3-star hotel, twin sharing, breakfast daily)
• 2 nights in Pokhara (standard 3-star hotel, twin sharing, breakfast daily)
• All lunches and dinners throughout the tour
• All entrance fees — Boudhanath, Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Bhaktapur, Patan, Devi’s Falls, Peace Pagoda, and others
• Private vehicle for all ground transfers (car, jeep, or minibus depending on group size)
• Licensed English-speaking guide for all sightseeing days
• Airport pickup and drop-off
• 2 bottles of mineral water per person per day
• Government taxes and service charges

What You Pay Separately

• Nepal visa (USD 30 for 15 days / USD 50 for 30 days — paid on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport)
• International flights to and from Kathmandu
• Kathmandu–Pokhara domestic flight if preferred (USD 120 per person — optional)
• Travel insurance (required if you plan any trekking add-ons)
• Personal expenses — souvenirs, bar bills, laundry, tips
• Tips for your guide and driver (entirely your choice — customary but never mandatory)

No surprise charges after booking. If something isn’t on this list, ask us before you confirm.

Practical Information Every Traveler Needs Before Booking

Nepal Visa — What You Need to Know Before You Arrive

Nepal offers a visa on arrival for most nationalities at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. The process is straightforward: fill in the online pre-arrival form at nepalimmigration.gov.np before you fly, then collect your visa stamp at the airport counter on arrival.

Visa Fees (2026)

• 15-day tourist visa: USD 30
• 30-day tourist visa: USD 50
• 90-day tourist visa: USD 125

Bring exact USD cash — older or damaged notes may be refused. You’ll also need two passport-size photos (the airport has a photo booth if you forget). Citizens of Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Cameroon, Somalia, Liberia, Ethiopia, Iraq, Palestine, Afghanistan, and Syria must apply for a visa in advance through the nearest Nepalese embassy. Indian nationals do not require a visa.

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your entry date. This is the most common avoidable issue we see — check before you fly.

Currency, ATMs, and Payments in Nepal

Nepal’s currency is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). As of 2026, 1 USD exchanges to approximately NPR 133–136 depending on the counter. Authorized exchange counters operate at the airport and throughout Thamel in Kathmandu and Lakeside in Pokhara. Avoid unlicensed changers on the street.

ATMs are widely available in both cities and accept Visa, Mastercard, and Maestro. Expect a local bank fee of NPR 500–600 per transaction, plus whatever your home bank charges. Most ATMs cap withdrawals at NPR 30,000–40,000 per transaction. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and established restaurants, but a 3–4% surcharge is common.

Our advice: arrive with USD 100–200 in cash for your first day (visa, airport transfer, any immediate needs), then exchange or withdraw as you go.

Mobile Network and SIM Cards

Nepal has two main mobile providers: Nepal Telecom (NTC) and Ncell. Both sell tourist SIM cards at the airport and throughout Thamel and Lakeside for NPR 200–500, which typically includes a data bundle. Ncell has slightly better 4G coverage in urban areas; NTC has broader reach in rural zones. Wi-Fi is available at virtually every hotel and most cafes — a local SIM is a convenience rather than a necessity for this tour.

Safety in Nepal

Nepal is consistently rated one of the safer destinations in Asia for international tourists. Street crime against tourists is rare. The main practical risks are road traffic (Kathmandu roads are busy by Western standards), occasional political demonstrations (peaceful and localized), and travel disruption during monsoon season. For this tour, you travel with a private vehicle and licensed guide throughout, which removes most logistics uncertainty.

We’ve been operating since 2000. In that time, we’ve never had a guest who wasn’t able to complete this tour safely. We still recommend travel insurance for every trip — not because Nepal is dangerous, but because disruptions happen.

Is Nepal safe for solo female travelers? Yes. Nepal has a respectful culture toward foreign visitors, and solo female travelers regularly take this tour without issues. Standard urban awareness applies in Thamel after midnight, but Nepal’s overall safety record for women travelers is strong.

Who Is This Tour Designed For?

First-Time Visitors to Nepal

This is the most logical introduction to the country. Kathmandu gives you cultural and historical depth; Pokhara gives you mountain landscape and breathing room. You leave with a genuine sense of Nepal’s range, not just one corner of it.

Couples and Honeymooners

The combination of heritage temples, sunset views over the Annapurna range, and lakeside evenings in Pokhara makes this a natural honeymoon choice. We can arrange candlelight dinners, private boat rides on Phewa Lake, and lake-view room upgrades on request.

Families with Children

The itinerary involves comfortable walking, no high altitudes (Kathmandu sits at 1,400 m, Pokhara at 827 m), and a good mix of active and relaxed days. Children respond particularly well to the Monkey Temple, boating on Phewa Lake, and Devi’s Falls. We’ve run this tour with children as young as 4 and adults in their late 70s without issues.

Senior Travelers

There’s no trekking or strenuous climbing involved. All sightseeing uses private transport, the pace is set by your group, and our guides adjust the schedule if needed. Kathmandu’s cobblestone streets require some care on foot, but nothing that presents a real challenge for mobile, healthy seniors.

Solo Travelers

We offer both private departures and the option to join a small group. If you’d prefer company, let us know and we’ll match you with another group departing around the same dates.

Accommodation and Food Options in Kathmandu and Pokhara Tour

Kathmandu

Accommodation:

• Luxury: Hyatt Regency, Dwarika’s Hotel, and Marriott Kathmandu.
• Mid-range: Kathmandu Guest House, Hotel Mulberry.

Food Options:

• Traditional Nepali Cuisine: Try dal-bhat-tarkari, momos, and Newari dishes at restaurants like Bhojan Griha or Nepali Chulo.
• International Cuisine: Thamel offers Italian, Indian, and continental options at places like Fire and Ice or Roadhouse Café.

Pokhara

Accommodation:

• Luxury: The Pavilions Himalayas, Temple Tree Resort & Spa.
• Mid-range: Waterfront Resort, Mount Kailash Resort.

Food Options:

• Local Delights: Taste fish dishes from Phewa Lake and Nepali Thali 
• International Cuisine: Enjoy pizza, pasta, and Lakeside Cafes: 
• Both cities cater to all budgets, offering diverse accommodations and a wide variety of delicious food!

Kathmandu to Pokhara Drive or Fly?

This is the most common question we get, and the honest answer is: it depends on your budget and time.

Travelling by Road

The Prithvi Highway covers roughly 200 km and takes 6–7 hours by private vehicle. The drive follows the Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers through terraced farmland and river gorges, with several small towns worth a quick stop. Road travel is included in your package at no extra charge.

Travelling by Flight

A domestic flight from Kathmandu (TIA) to Pokhara (PKR) takes 25–30 minutes and costs an additional USD 120 per person. Flights operate in the morning, which means you land in Pokhara with most of the day ahead. During monsoon season (June–August), flying is also the safer choice since road conditions and visibility can deteriorate significantly.

We book both options regularly. If you're undecided, tell us your travel dates and we'll give you an honest recommendation based on current road and weather conditions.

Altitude Sickness in Kathmandu and Pokhara Tour

Kathmandu:

• Kathmandu is at a low altitude (1,400 meters/4,600 feet), so the risk of altitude sickness is minimal here.
• Travelers can safely acclimatize before heading to higher-altitude destinations like Pokhara or trekking regions.

Pokhara:

• Pokhara’s altitude is around 827 meters (2,713 feet), which is still considered low, and altitude sickness is rare.
• However, if you venture to higher altitudes (e.g., Sarangkot or nearby trekking areas), gradual ascent is advised to avoid altitude-related issues.
• Both Kathmandu and Pokhara are at low altitudes, so altitude sickness is generally not a concern, but be cautious when heading to higher regions

Travel Insurance for the Pokhara and Kathmandu Tour

Travel insurance is recommended to cover:

• Medical Emergencies: For illnesses or accidents.
• Trip Cancellations: Reimbursement for unexpected changes.
• Baggage Loss: Compensation for lost or damaged items.
• Adventure Activities: Optional coverage for activities like paragliding in Pokhara.

Permits for Kathmandu and Pokhara Tour

For a standard Kathmandu and Pokhara tour, no special permits are required. However:

• Trekking or Restricted Areas: If your tour includes treks or restricted regions near these cities, permits like TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) and ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) may be needed.
• Entry Fees: Expect entry fees for heritage sites in Kathmandu (e.g., Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath) and tourist spots in Pokhara (e.g., Peace Pagoda).
• Always check specific requirements for activities or side trips

Guide and Porter for Kathmandu and Pokhara Tour

Guide:
A local guide is not mandatory for a Kathmandu and Pokhara tour but is highly recommended if you want deeper insights into the history, culture, and attractions. Guides can be hired for city tours or specific activities.

Porter:
For a typical Kathmandu and Pokhara tour (without trekking), a porter is not necessary. However, if you plan to trek (e.g., to Sarangkot or nearby areas), hiring a porter can help carry your luggage.
A guide enhances the experience, while a porter is useful for treks but not required for a city tour.

Common Mistakes Travelers Make — and How to Avoid Them

After 25+ years of running tours in Nepal, these are the situations we see most often.

Booking International Flights Before Confirming the Tour

Flight schedules to Kathmandu occasionally change, and weather can cause short delays. Book your international flights flexible or refundable until your Nepal dates are confirmed with us. We’ve seen guests lose non-refundable tickets due to minor schedule conflicts.

Packing Too Heavily

This is a city tour — you don’t need trekking gear, heavy boots, or multiple technical layers. Comfortable walking shoes, a light fleece for evenings, and a daypack for sightseeing are all you need. A full duffel bag just means more to carry through Kathmandu’s narrow streets.

Underestimating Entrance Fees (if Booking Independently)

The fees for major sites in Kathmandu have increased in recent years: Pashupatinath USD 15, Swayambhunath USD 3, Boudhanath USD 5, Bhaktapur Durbar Square USD 15, Patan Durbar Square USD 10, Kathmandu Durbar Square USD 10. These are all included in your package with us — we raise this because some travelers try to book independently and are surprised by the cumulative cost.

Not Bringing USD Cash for the Visa

The visa-on-arrival counter at Tribhuvan International Airport accepts USD, Euros, and British Pounds, but USD is the smoothest. Bring exact change if possible — the queue moves faster.

Expecting Fast Wi-Fi Everywhere

Hotels and cafes in both cities have decent Wi-Fi adequate for messaging, video calls, and social media. It’s not fibre-grade and can slow during busy evenings. Download offline maps and entertainment before arriving.

Skipping Bhaktapur

Most standard Kathmandu–Pokhara itineraries don’t include Bhaktapur. Ours does — on Day 5, if you fly back from Pokhara. Bhaktapur is arguably the best-preserved medieval city in Nepal and deserves a proper half-day. Don’t skip it to save an hour.

Best Season for Kathmandu and Pokhara Tour

The best seasons to visit Kathmandu and Pokhara are:

• Autumn (September to November): Clear skies, mild temperatures, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
• Spring (March to May): Pleasant weather, great for exploring and trekking in the surrounding areas.

Note: But can be done in all Seasons.

When to Visit Month-by-Month Breakdown

October and November (Peak Season — Recommended for First-Timers)

The most reliable months overall. Skies are clear after the monsoon, temperatures are pleasant (15–25°C in both cities), and mountain views from Sarangkot are as good as they get. Kathmandu runs through its major festival season at this time — Dashain and Tihar both fall here, which means decorated temples, more street activity, and a livelier atmosphere.

March, April, and May (Spring — Second Best)

Rhododendron forests are in bloom on the hillsides approaching Pokhara. Temperatures warm up, visibility remains good, and the pre-monsoon haze starts only toward late May. April can get warm in Kathmandu (up to 30°C midday), but Pokhara stays comfortable throughout spring.

December, January, and February (Winter — Quiet and Clear)

Cold mornings and evenings in both cities (Kathmandu can drop to 2–5°C overnight in January), but daytime sightseeing is generally fine. Hotel prices are lower, heritage sites are quieter, and snow on the mountains looks spectacular from Sarangkot. A good choice for travelers who prefer uncrowded sites.

June Through September (Monsoon Season — For Flexible Travelers)

Heavy rain arrives in June and continues through most of September. The Kathmandu–Pokhara road is more prone to delays and closures during this period — we recommend flying rather than driving. Despite the rain, Nepal during monsoon has a different kind of beauty: the valley turns deeply green, rice paddies are in full growth, and heritage sites see very few tourists. Possible, but plan for itinerary flexibility.

Our honest recommendation for first-time visitors: October–November. The conditions are the most consistent and the cultural calendar is at its richest.

Difficulty Level

If you choose to trek, the difficulty level increases based on the trail's length and altitude. The tour is generally easy, with optional moderate activities for adventure seekers

Internet/Wi-Fi Facility in Kathmandu and Pokhara Tour

Kathmandu:

Most hotels, cafes, and restaurants in areas like Thamel offer free Wi-Fi. Internet speed can vary, but it is generally accessible for basic browsing and communication.

Pokhara:

Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, guesthouses, and cafes, especially around the Lakeside area. Similar to Kathmandu, the internet can be slower in more remote areas. Both cities offer decent internet and Wi-Fi facilities, with more reliable access in urban areas like Thamel (Kathmandu) and Lakeside (Pokhara).

Packing List for Kathmandu and Pokhara Tour

• Lightweight, breathable clothes (for daytime)
• Warm layers (for cooler evenings and mornings)
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sandals or flip-flops
• Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
• Travel bag or backpack
• Water bottle
• Power bank
• Camera/phone for photos
• Travel adapter (Nepal uses type C, D, and M plugs)
• Passport, visa, and travel insurance details
• Copies of important documents (keep separate from originals)
• Permits (if required for trekking)
• Health and Hygiene:
• Personal medications
• Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
• Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap)
• First aid kit (band-aids, pain relievers, etc.)
• Lightweight rain jacket (especially in the monsoon season)
• Snacks (energy bars, nuts)
• Insect repellent
• This list covers essentials for a comfortable and enjoyable trip to Kathmandu and

How do I book this tour?

You can book directly through our website using the booking form, or contact us via WhatsApp at +977 9851029611. We require a copy of your passport and a 10% advance payment to confirm the booking. The remaining balance is payable in Nepal upon arrival. We accept bank transfer, credit card, and cash.

Can I customise this tour?

Yes. The 6-day structure is our most popular format, but we regularly adjust it — adding a Bhaktapur focus day, including a short sunrise hike near Pokhara, or extending to 8 days with Chitwan. Tell us your travel dates and priorities and we’ll build the right itinerary.

What size groups do you work with?

We run tours for solo travelers up to groups of 20. Private vehicles and dedicated guides are standard regardless of group size. Solo travelers can book a fully private tour or join another small group — we’ll discuss both options with you.

What languages do your guides speak?

Our guides are licensed by the Nepal Tourism Board and work in English, Chinese (Mandarin), German, Spanish, and French. Please specify your language preference when booking.

What happens if my flight is delayed or I arrive late?

Our airport representative waits regardless of delay — we track all flight arrivals. If a delay significantly affects your first day, we’ll adjust the itinerary accordingly. No additional charge for missed activities due to flight delays.

Is the tour price the same for solo travelers?

Single-person bookings use the 1-person rate (USD 650). This is higher per person because the private vehicle, guide, and hotel costs are not shared. If cost is a concern, joining a group departure reduces the per-person price significantly — contact us for current group departure dates.

Do I need vaccinations for Nepal?

No specific vaccinations are legally required to enter Nepal. Most travel doctors recommend being current on standard vaccines (hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus). Consult your own doctor based on your health history and the activities you plan.

Can I add paragliding or rafting to this tour?

Yes. Pokhara paragliding (tandem, from Sarangkot) can be added as an afternoon activity on Day 4 — cost is approximately USD 90 per person. Trishuli River rafting can be added as a half-day excursion. Both are weather-dependent, so we confirm on-ground after checking conditions.

What is the cancellation policy?

Cancellations more than 30 days before departure incur no penalty. 15–30 days: 25% retention. 7–15 days: 50% retention. Less than 7 days or no-show: 100% retention. Full terms are on our Terms and Conditions page.

Is there a fixed departure date or can we choose our own start date?

You choose your own start date — this is a private tour, not a scheduled group departure. We operate year-round and can start any day of the week.

Why Book Directly With View Nepal Treks

View Nepal Treks and Expedition has been licensed and operating from Thamel, Kathmandu since the early 2000s. We are registered with the Nepal Tourism Board, the Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN), the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA), and KEEP.

We don’t use third-party sub-contractors for this tour. Your guide is our staff. Your vehicle is operated by a driver we work with directly. When you contact us before, during, or after your trip, you’re speaking with the people who actually run the operation — not a booking platform or reseller.

Our pricing is transparent. We don’t inflate rates and offer large “discounts” to close a sale. The prices listed are real:

• 1 person: USD 650
• 2–6 persons: USD 470 per person
• 7–12 persons: USD 420 per person
• 13–20 persons: USD 390 per person

If you’re traveling solo and want to reduce the cost, ask us about joining another small group departing around your dates.

We have received a TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award and are reviewed across Google, TripAdvisor, and direct client feedback. We’re happy to share specific review links or connect you with past travelers from your country before you book — just ask.

Bhupendra Adhikari
View Nepal Treks and Expedition
Nursing Chowk, Thamel, Kathmandu, Nepal
+977 9851029611 • WhatsApp