Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan & Lumbini Tour
Discover the Heart of Nepal Overview
The Discover the Heart of Nepal tour is one of the finest travel experiences in Nepal, combining cultural heritage, natural beauty, wildlife, and spiritual pilgrimage. Over 10 days, you will explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu, the serene lakes and mountains of Pokhara, the wildlife-rich jungles of Chitwan National Park, and the sacred birthplace of Lord Buddha in Lumbini.
Your journey begins in Kathmandu, where you will visit ancient Durbar Squares, sacred Hindu temples, and massive Buddhist stupas. You then travel to Pokhara (by land or air), enjoying spectacular mountain views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, sunrise from Sarangkot, boating on Phewa Lake, and exploring caves and waterfalls. Next, head to Chitwan for jungle safaris, canoe rides, Tharu cultural performances, and wildlife spotting, including one‑horned rhinos and Bengal tigers. Finally, visit Lumbini, where you will see the Maya Devi Temple, Ashoka Pillar, and monasteries built by Buddhist communities from around the world.
This tour includes comfortable 4‑star hotel accommodation, private transportation, an experienced English‑speaking guide, and most meals in Chitwan. Global Nepal Treks ensures a seamless and enriching introduction to Nepal's diverse attractions.
Under Sarangkot Sunrise Viewpoint
Best Time to Arrive — Pre-dawn departure from Pokhara to catch first light on the peaks.
Under Maya Devi Temple — Buddha's Birthplace
Ashoka Pillar Significance — Erected by Emperor Ashoka in 249 BC, marking the confirmed birthplace of Buddha.
Looking for the best tours in Nepal for families? The Kathmandu Valley Tour by Global Nepal Treks is Nepal's most complete family-friendly cultural experience — no trekking required, no altitude risk, and packed with experiences every age group loves.
In just 7 days, families explore 7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, witness a Himalayan sunrise from Nagarkot, boat across Phewa Lake in Pokhara, and walk through the living medieval city of Bhaktapur. Every day is designed for comfort, discovery, and memories that last a lifetime.
Why Families Choose This Tour
No strenuous activity — suitable for children, seniors, and first-time visitors
Private vehicle and cultural guide throughout — no shared buses or crowds
Maximum altitude: 2,175m — no acclimatization issues for kids or elderly travelers
UNESCO heritage every day — Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath, Patan, Bhaktapur, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Nagarkot viewpoint
Short scenic flight Kathmandu → Pokhara — thrilling for kids, effortless for parents
Farewell Nepali cultural dinner — a real local experience families never forget
What Makes Nepal Perfect for Family Travel?
Nepal is one of Asia's safest, most welcoming destinations for families. English is widely spoken. Food is family-friendly. The culture is rich but accessible. And nowhere captures it all better than the Kathmandu Valley — temples, mountain views, ancient cities, and lakeside relaxation, all within a 7-day window.
Highlights
Detailed Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport. Our representative will greet you and transfer you to your 4‑star hotel. Evening trip briefing. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Full Day Kathmandu Sightseeing
After breakfast, visit Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), Basantapur Durbar Square, Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple. (Optional: Bhaktapur or Patan Durbar Square if time permits). Overnight in Kathmandu.
Drive or Fly to Pokhara Optional Rafting or Cable Car Add-Ons — Trishuli River rafting or Bandipur cable car available at extra cost en route.
Morning drive (approx. 7 hours) or 30‑minute flight to Pokhara. En route, optional activities: rafting on Trishuli River, cable car to Bandipur or Manakamana Temple (extra cost). Arrive and check into 4‑star hotel. Overnight in Pokhara.
Sarangkot Sunrise Viewpoint — Panoramic views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri at dawn.
Early morning drive to Sarangkot for sunrise over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. After breakfast, visit Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Cave, International Mountain Museum, and World Peace Pagoda. Free evening at Lakeside. Overnight in Pokhara.
Drive to Chitwan
Morning drive (4‑5 hours) to Chitwan. Check into 4‑star resort. Afternoon Tharu village tour and sunset view. Evening Tharu cultural dance program. Overnight in Chitwan.
Rapti River Canoe Ride and Elephant Breeding Center
Activities include: canoe ride on Rapti River, jungle walk, visit to Elephant Breeding Center, and jeep safari (optional elephant safari). Packed lunch during safari. Overnight in Chitwan.
Drive to Lumbini
Morning drive (approx. 5 hours) to Lumbini. Check into 4‑star hotel. Free evening to explore or visit India/Nepal border area. Overnight in Lumbini.
Maya Devi Temple — Buddha's Birthplace International Monastery Zone — Thai, Chinese, Korean, and Sri Lankan monasteries within Lumbini's Sacred Garden.
After breakfast, visit Maya Devi Temple (birthplace of Buddha), Ashoka Pillar, Sacred Garden, Lumbini Museum, World Peace Pagoda, and various international monasteries (Thai, Chinese, Korean, Sri Lankan, etc.). Overnight in Lumbini.
Drive/Fly back to Kathmandu
Morning drive (7‑8 hours) or 25‑minute flight back to Kathmandu. Check into 4‑star hotel. Free evening for shopping or farewell dinner. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Final Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Included
- International & domestic airport transfers as per itinerary
- 3 nights 4‑star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on twin‑sharing (BB plan)
- 2 nights 4‑star hotel accommodation in Pokhara on twin‑sharing (BB plan)
- 2 nights 4‑star resort accommodation in Chitwan on full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- All jungle safari activities in Chitwan National Park
- 2 nights 4‑star hotel accommodation in Lumbini on twin‑sharing (BB plan)
- All ground transportation by private vehicle (car/van/jeep/coaster depending on group size)
- Professional English‑speaking tour guide for the entire trip
- Complementary farewell dinner in a traditional Nepali cultural restaurant
- All government taxes, VAT, tourist service charges, and official expenses
Excluded
- International airfare to/from Nepal
- Nepal entry visa fees (US$30 for 15 days, US$50 for 30 days, US$125 for 90 days)
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Lumbini (except where noted)
- Temple and monastery entry permit fees (pay locally)
- Bar bills and personal expenses
- Tips for guides and drivers
Essential Information
Trip Code
GNT-KPCL
Trip Type
Cultural, Wildlife & Pilgrimage Tour
Accommodation
4-Star Hotels (Kathmandu, Pokhara, Lumbini) | 4-Star Resort (Chitwan)
Meals
Breakfast throughout | Packed lunch on Chitwan safari day
Transportation
Private Vehicle (car/van/jeep/coaster) | Optional Domestic Flights (Kathmandu–Pokhara, Bharatpur–Kathmandu)
Best Time to Visit
Autumn (September–November) and spring (March–May) offer the most pleasant weather and clearest mountain views, though the tour is enjoyable year-round since it's largely lowland and cultural rather than high-altitude.
Difficulty Level
Easy — no trekking involved. Maximum altitude is 1,600m at Pokhara, and all sightseeing is vehicle-based or short walks.
Fitness Requirements
Preparation Tips
Equipment List
Health Considerations
Safety Measures
Permits Required
Cultural Etiquette
Local Customs
Frequently Asked Questions
Will there be someone waiting for me at the airport to give me a ride?
Yes, our representative will be at the airport arrival terminal with a name card to greet you and transfer you to your hotel.
Are credit cards and ATMs widely accepted?
In cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara, yes. In Chitwan and Lumbini, cash is preferred. ATMs are available but may have limited reliability.
What types of transportation are available?
We use private vehicles (car, van, jeep, coaster) for all transfers and sightseeing. Domestic flights are optional at extra cost.
What food options are available?
You will find a variety of Nepali, Indian, Tibetan, and continental cuisine. In Chitwan, Tharu traditional dishes are also available.
What type of accommodation can I expect?
We provide 4‑star hotels in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Lumbini, and a 4‑star resort in Chitwan. Upgrades to 5‑star are available at additional cost.
What is the best season to take this tour?
The tour is enjoyable year‑round. Autumn (September–November) and spring (March–May) offer the most pleasant weather and clear mountain views.
What wildlife can I expect to see in Chitwan?
You may see one‑horned rhinoceros, Bengal tigers, elephants, crocodiles, deer, monkeys, and many bird species.
Will I have a guide for the entire tour?
Yes, a professional English‑speaking tour guide will accompany you throughout the entire 10‑day journey.