Itinerary Overview: The Heart & Soul of Nepal
Theme: A balanced mix of history, mountain scenery, lakeside relaxation, and spiritual discovery.
Pace: Moderate, with several 3-6 hour drives through changing landscapes.
Day-by-Day Breakdown & Pro Tips
Day 1 – Kathmandu to Gorkha
Drive: ~4-5 hours. The roads become winding as you approach Gorkha.
Key Visit: Gorkha Durbar – a magnificent palace-fortress atop a hill. The climb involves steep stone steps (about 1,500) but rewards with history and panoramic views. The museum houses artifacts of the Shah kings.
Pro Tip: Start early from Kathmandu to have ample time for the climb. Wear good walking shoes. Carry water.
Day 2 – Gorkha to Bandipur
Drive: ~3 hours. Bandipur is a beautifully preserved Newari town on a saddle.
Experience: Walk the car-free main street with its 19th-century architecture. The sunset view of the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges from Tundikhel or the viewpoint is breathtaking.
Pro Tip: Enjoy a coffee at a rooftop cafe. Try the local "Bandipur Sour Lime" drink.
Day 3 – Bandipur to Pokhara
Drive: ~2-3 hours (a short and scenic journey).
Arrival in Pokhara: The change in atmosphere is immediate—more relaxed and tourist-friendly.
Evening: A boat ride on Phewa Lake as the sun sets behind the mountains is magical. The reflection of Fishtail Mountain (Machhapuchhre) on the lake is iconic.
Pro Tip: Negotiate boat prices beforehand. Ask your boatman to row you to the Tal Barahi Temple in the middle of the lake.
Day 4 – Pokhara Sightseeing
Highlights:
Davis Falls & Gupteshwor Cave: See the waterfall from above, then descend into the cave behind it—a unique experience.
World Peace Pagoda: Accessible by a short boat ride + hike or a taxi/drive. Offers the best panoramic view of Pokhara, the lake, and the Annapurna range.
Pro Tip: Do the Peace Pagoda in the morning for clear mountain views. The afternoon is perfect for lakeside relaxation, shopping, or a massage.
Day 5 – Pokhara to Lumbini
Drive: ~5-6 hours (the longest drive). The terrain shifts from hills to the flat, hot Terai plains.
Arrival in Lumbini: The atmosphere is instantly peaceful. The main site is a large garden park.
Key Visit: Maya Devi Temple marks the exact birthplace of Buddha. See the ancient marker stone and the sacred pond.
Pro Tip: Rent a bicycle or an electric rickshaw to explore the expansive monastic zone (monasteries from Thailand, China, Myanmar, Germany, etc.).
Day 6 – Lumbini Exploration
Deep Dive: This extra day is valuable. Explore the monastic zones slowly. Attend a meditation session at one of the monasteries. Visit the Lumbini Museum and World Peace Flame.
Experience: The stillness at dawn or dusk within the garden is profoundly serene.
Pro Tip: Dress modestly. Carry a water bottle, hat, and sunscreen as the Terai can be very sunny and hot.
Day 7 – Lumbini to Kathmandu
Drive: ~7-8 hours. A long return journey. Alternatively, you could consider a flight from Bhairahawa (near Lumbini) to Kathmandu (25 mins) to save time and energy if your budget allows.
Evening in Kathmandu: Last-minute souvenir shopping in Thamel or a farewell dinner with cultural music.
Recommended Add-Ons & Considerations
Extend Your Trip: Add 2-3 days for a short Annapurna trek (e.g., Ghorepani Poon Hill) or a Chitwan National Park safari between Pokhara and Lumbini for a wildlife experience.
Best Seasons: October-November (post-monsoon) and March-April (spring) offer the clearest skies and best temperatures.
Accommodation: This itinerary allows for stays in heritage hotels (Bandipur), tourist-class hotels (Pokhara), and simple, peaceful lodges (Lumbini).
Packing Essentials
Footwear: Comfortable walking/hiking shoes for Gorkha and Bandipur.
Clothing: Layers! Light clothing for Lumbini, a warm layer for cool Pokhara/Bandipur evenings. Modest attire for temples and monasteries (covered shoulders/knees).
Other: Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, reusable water bottle, power bank, and a good camera.
This is a wonderfully curated journey that showcases Nepal's diversity beyond just the Himalayas. Enjoy every moment
