Classic Nepal

Classic Nepal

11 Days Starting and ending in Kathmandu

Visiting: Kathmandu, Pokhara, Bandipur, Chitwan National Park, Bhaktapur

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

HNKA

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 12

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

15-99 years

Tour operated in:

English
From: $2620 $2227 Operator discount: -$393 -15%

NB: Prices correct on 04-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Journey into Nepal's heart and experience this enchanting region's colourful sights and culture. Mingle with local villagers and craftspeople, visit temples and sacred Buddhist sites, travel the cobbled streets of tiny mountain towns and search for unique wildlife. From the whirlwind of Kathmandu to the lush jungle of Chitwan National Park – with plenty of delightful hidden gems in between – you’ll take an unforgettable tour of Nepal, brimming with culture, history and natural beauty.

Highlights

  • Beginning and ending in Kathmandu, there's more than enough time to discover the Nepali capital's staggeringly rich cultural and artistic heritage.

  • Take a jeep safari with a local guide in Chitwan National Park – a beauty brimming with exotic wildlife – and you may be lucky enough to spot rhinos or elusive leopards and tigers.

  • Visit a Tibetan refugee camp and get to know the community before taking on a cooking demonstration to learn how to create traditional momos (steamed dumplings).

  • Discover world-class mountain scenery and explore the hill-perched Buddhist Peace Pagoda of laid-back Pokhara.

  • This is the perfect trip for those who want a cultural insight into Nepal without strenuous trekking, with plenty of inclusions, free time and comfortable accommodation in each destination.

  • By travelling on this trip, you'll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Forget Me Not. Donations help them provide job training, work experience and employment opportunities for young people who've grown up in institutionalised Nepalese orphanages.

  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Sagarmatha Next. Donations help them remove waste responsibly and turn rubbish into art in the Everest region.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Kathmandu

Location: Kathmandu

Namaste! Welcome to Nepal. Arrive in Kathmandu and take your complimentary airport transfer to the hotel. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm where you'll meet your trip leader and fellow travellers. The evening is free to explore the streets of Kathmandu, whose mixture of ancient architecture and modern development, and rich artistic and cultural heritage means it remains the legendary destination it has been for decades. Crowded markets and bazaars are the centre of Nepali life, and the narrow streets are home to holy men, monks, bicycles, incense, goats, and sacred cows. You may like to join your leader and group for an optional dinner at one of Kathmandu's fine Nepali restaurants.

Day 2: Kathmandu

Location: Kathmandu

Meals Included: breaksfast

Weather permitting, you'll have the option to take a Mount Everest scenic flight this morning. This experience will take you over Sagamartha National Park through a crescendo of the highest peaks in the world, getting up close to Mount Everest. After breakfast, you'll explore Kathmandu, visiting Pashupatinath, the most famous Hindu temple in the country, located on the banks of the holy Bagmati River. Here you'll see Hindu holy men (sadhus) meditating, pilgrims bathing and occasionally funeral pyres burning on the ghats. You'll also visit Bodhnath Stupa, one of the most significant Buddhist shrines in the world, where you can observe Buddhist monks in prayer in the monasteries surrounding the stupa. After lunch, it's time to explore Swayambhunath Temple (the Monkey Temple). A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is one of the city's most famous temples and fascinatingly reflects Buddhist and Hindu beliefs. From here, you'll head to Durbar Square, which sits at the front of the old royal palace. You'll get a chance to admire the beautiful temples and browse the stalls of merchant's wares. The evening is yours to explore the city as you wish.

Included Activities:
-Kathmandu - Pashupatinath Temple
-Kathmandu - Boudhanath Stupa and Monastery visit
-Kathmandu - Durbar Square
-Kathmandu - Swayambhunath Temple

Optional Activities:
-Kathmandu - Everest scenic flight

Day 3: Pokhara

Location: Pokhara

Meals Included: breaksfast

Today you'll leave your hotel early and hit the road to Pokhara in a private vehicle. Time to relax after you arrive. If you wish, you can stroll around and take in the views of the lake (Phewa Tal), which is the second largest in Nepal. If you’re lucky you might catch a glimpse of the spectacular Himalayan Mountain chain to the north. When you arrive, take a scenic boat ride across the lake of Phewa Tal – the second largest lake in Nepal.You can stretch your legs and check out Taal Barahi temple in the middle of the lake or simply admire the views from the boat.

Visit the Peace Pagoda for excellent views of the mountains including the Annapurnas, the famous fishtail peak of Machhapuchhare and a glimpse back across to Pokhara. Then, head to the International Mountain Museum, which is full of fascinating tales and exploits from climbing expeditions of the past – some ending in triumph and others in tragedy. Enjoy a free evening, perhaps asking your leader for their favourite lakeside restaurant to visit for dinner.


Included Activities:
-Pokhara - Phewa Tal Lake boat trip

Day 4: Pokhara

Location: Pokhara

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

If you're an early riser, you'll have the option to wake up early and enjoy the sunrise over Sarangkot Hill this morning. Then, after breakfast and some time at leisure,you'll head to a local Tibetan Refugee Camp for lunch. You'll hear stories of their journey from Tibet to Nepal, learn about local life and take part in a traditional cooking demonstration to find out how to make delicious momos (steamed dumplings). Of course, you'll sit down for a group lunch and tuck into the fruits of your labour.

Included Activities:
-Pokhara - Tibetan community visit with momo lunch
-Pokhara - Sunrise from Sarangkot Hill

Day 5: Bandipur

Location: Bandipur

Meals Included: breaksfast

Today you'll travel to Bandipur by private vehicle. This traditional Nepalese town is a natural treasure and one of the country's hidden gems. Bandipur was once an essential stop for traders travelling to Tibet, and the town's single main street is still lined with buildings that once housed a wide variety of merchants. Many of the buildings have been converted now, but their architecture remains. Enjoy a peaceful stay in this charming, rural location.

Included Activities:
-Pokhara - International Mountain Museum

Day 6: Bandipur

Location: Bandipur

Meals Included: breaksfast

Enjoy a day of free time to explore Bandipur further. The surrounding hills are ideal for hiking along trails that will take you through tribal villages and hilltop shrines that once doubled as fortresses. Bandipur is saddled on a high ridge above Dumre, making for an exceptional view of the Himalayan panorama. You may prefer to visit the town's temples or relax with a coffee and a spectacular view.

Included Activities:
-Bandipur Day Trip

Day 7: Chitwan National Park

Location: Chitwan National Park

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

After breakfast, you'll drive to Chitwan National Park. After arriving and settling in, you'll be introduced to the camp staff and resident naturalists, who'll discuss the activities for the upcoming days. In the early evening, the local Tharu dance troupe may perform a cultural program. You'll enjoy dinner as a group and then the evening will be all yours – maybe relax in the bar and discuss the day's animal sightings or listen to the stirrings of the jungle at night.

Included Activities:
-Village Tour, Sunset view & Tipical Tharu Stick Dance(Cultural Show Around 30 Minute)

Day 8: Chitwan National Park

Location: Chitwan National Park

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

Embark on an early-morning jeep safari in search of the great Indian rhino, deer and exotic birdlife or joining one of the other activities available to explore the park (the safari will either happen on day 7 or Day 8, depending on the hotel staff's schedule). After breakfast, you’ll leave the lodge and go on a dugout canoe adventure on the Rapti River. This is an exciting trip with chances to catch a glimpse of marsh mugger crocodiles and various birds that inhabit the riverbanks. A program will be organised for the rest of the day and may include further excursions by jeep or a visit to one of the nearby villages.

Included Activities:
-Canoe Ride & Jeep Safari at The Chitwan National Park

Day 9: Bhaktapur

Location: Bhaktapur

Meals Included: breaksfast

If you’re an avid wildlife lover, an optional early-morning birdwatching safari is available today – a worthwhile addition to your trip. After breakfast, drive along the Trisuli River to Bhaktapur and enjoy a stop along the riverbank for lunch. Bhaktapur was once the capital of Nepal and the Great Malla Kingdom during the 15th century. Its rich heritage, inspiring temples and artisanal history played a big part in Bhaktapur being named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy an evening of exploration on your own, soak up the lovely atmosphere in one of the local cafes, or simply relax in your hotel.

Included Activities:
-Chitwan NP - Bird watching tour

Day 10: Kathmandu

Location: Kathmandu

Meals Included: breaksfast

Spend the morning exploring Bhaktapur's famous temples, starting at Durbar Square, which is said to be the most beautiful piece of art in Nepal. Durbar Square is home to the majestic Lion Gate and Golden Gate.  You 'll also visit the Yakcheswor Mahadev Temple- a replica of Pashupatinath Temple in Bhaktapur. In the afternoon, drive to Kathmandu. The evening is yours to spend as you wish – your group may like to head out for an optional final dinner as your Nepal adventure comes to an end.

Included Activities:
-Bhaktapur - Leader-led walking tour

Day 11: Kathmandu

Location: Kathmandu

Meals Included: breaksfast

Your trip officially comes to an end after breakfast today. If you would like to stay longer, just speak to your booking agent.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Hotel (5 nights), Guesthouse (3 nights), Lodge (2 nights)

  • Kathmandu - Pashupatinath Temple

  • Kathmandu - Boudhanath Stupa

  • Kathmandu - Durbar Square

  • Kathmandu - Swayambhunath Temple

  • Pokhara - Phewa Tal Lake boat trip

  • Pokhara - Peace Pagoda

  • Pokhara - Tibetan community visit with momo lunch

  • Pokhara - International Mountain Museum

  • Pokhara - Sunrise from Sarangkot Hill

  • Bandipur Day Trip

show more

What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

  • International Travel

Transport

  • MONSOON:
  • The monsoon season is from June to September and weather conditions can disrupt travel during this time due to flooding and landslides. Disruption of air travel and airport closures are also possible. Be prepared for your itinerary needing to change at short notice.
  • ROAD TRAVEL:
  • Roadworks and infrastructure projects can cause significant delays on major roads within cities and highways between destinations. Road travel can also be disrupted due to demonstrations and bandhs (strikes) without warning. Major roadworks are currently ongoing in and around Kathmandu and the roads to Chitwan National Park. Delays, heavy traffic, poor road conditions, and dust are a reality of road travel in Nepal.
  • AIR TRAVEL:
  • Nepal's only international airport, Tribhuvan International Airport, has a single runway that services both domestic and international flights. Cancellations and delays are frequent, especially during peak tourist seasons or in poor weather. Travellers have on occasion missed international connections as a result of this. Ensure you have adequate travel insurance and contact numbers for your airlines before departure.

Accommodation

  • The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
  • Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.

Important Information

  • 1. A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included; valid if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through us. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel.
  • 2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Days 5, 6 and 9 (Guesthouse) and Days 7 and 8 (Lodge) where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
  • 3. Please provide your full name exactly as per passport at the time of booking (including any middle names listed on your passport) for flight tickets. Fees may apply for adding or amending details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases you will be required to cover the cost of issuing new tickets.

Mode of Transport

  • MONSOON:
  • The monsoon season is from June to September and weather conditions can disrupt travel during this time due to flooding and landslides. Disruption of air travel and airport closures are also possible. Be prepared for your itinerary needing to change at short notice.
  • ROAD TRAVEL:
  • Roadworks and infrastructure projects can cause significant delays on major roads within cities and highways between destinations. Road travel can also be disrupted due to demonstrations and bandhs (strikes) without warning. Major roadworks are currently ongoing in and around Kathmandu and the roads to Chitwan National Park. Delays, heavy traffic, poor road conditions, and dust are a reality of road travel in Nepal.
  • AIR TRAVEL:
  • Nepal's only international airport, Tribhuvan International Airport, has a single runway that services both domestic and international flights. Cancellations and delays are frequent, especially during peak tourist seasons or in poor weather. Travellers have on occasion missed international connections as a result of this. Ensure you have adequate travel insurance and contact numbers for your airlines before departure.

Check out our Q&As

  • Is this trip right for you

    This trip does not go to high altitudes, so if this was keeping you back from visiting Nepal in the past, this trip is for you.

    While on a map you aren't travelling particularly far, the reality of road travel in Nepal is that things always take longer than you expect. Some roads will be bumpy, dusty or even unexpectedly blocked requiring reroutes and plenty of patience.

    Hotels in some destinations may vary in standard and facilities, and hot water may occasionally be limited. There will be times when the location of our accommodation will mean it is practical to eat at the hotel restaurant rather than heading out for optional meals.

    While there will be opportunities to spot many different kinds of wildlife, sightings cannot be guaranteed.

    You will see tour operators offering elephant riding activities and many tourists taking part in them during your time in Chitwan. Intrepid Travel has a strong elephant welfare policy and as such we discourage travellers from riding elephants in Nepal or anywhere around the world. Please refer to the 'Responsible Travel' section of the Essential Trip Information for more details.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this operator

Maroochy Dazza (Google Reviewer)  

Just leaving a review to...

24-Aug-2023

Just leaving a review to share how much I enjoyed my Central America trip. I thought the guide, Aura was so knowledgeable and organised and clearly a great ambassador for Intrepid. She gave us lots of information on each region, helped us organise anything we needed and dealt with queries from passengers very well and diplomatically. She made the trip run smoothly. She was also keen to explain the Intrepid vision and how the company values making a difference to locals and is a credit to your company. I did Guatemala and beyond and thoroughly enjoyed it - very fast paced, lots to see and do and a great overview of the region. I would definitely recommend 👍

LivvyGrace 4 (Google Reviewer)  

I just completed my first...

15-Jul-2024

I just completed my first Intrepid tour which was 33 days travelling around Central America - I had the time of my life! It was great to have the benefit of a guide (Fluffy was amazing!) and be able to ask questions at any point, but I also liked the freedom that you were permitted throughout. The group tour made boarder crossings seamless and the whole process felt easy - there was never one hiccup. As a solo female traveller, I felt safe throughout, and I cannot recommend Central America enough - the people, the food, the sun and the activities were just amazing :) Can't wait to book my next adventure soon!

V Open (Google Reviewer)  

I have just come back...

26-Oct-2022

I have just come back home after doing Intrepid's 10-day Vietnam Express Northbound tour. What a SUPERB tour. We saw lots and did lots, it was jam-packed full of sights and activities. Our tour leader, Tam, was the best ever. Very knowledgeable, organised and lots of fun too. The other 10 people on the group were all lovely. The places we visited were very interesting. We even visited local homes and ate just like the local people do. I highly recommend Intrepid to anyone considering touring a new country. This was my 5th tour with them and they have consistently been fantastic.

Jack Edwards (Google Reviewer)  

I have travelled with Intrepid...

03-Jun-2024

I have travelled with Intrepid a number of times now and can't recommend them enough. The trips are always exciting, full of history and immersive in the culture and environment. The office staff are great too and always happy to help with any questions you might have. Everywhere I have gone with the company has been different but the guides and itinerary have always been excellent and full of knowledge and passion for their country. Add in the social responsibility angle the company has and it top quality ethical practice and you can't go wrong

Jo Clayton (Google Reviewer)  

I recently went on an...

15-Mar-2024

I recently went on an 11 day tour of India with Intrepid and was impressed with every aspect of the tour, the tour leader and the organisation behind the scenes. I always travel alone so it was a big deal to join a tour, I didn't want to feel less independent or ferried about. I loved being part of a group and the things we saw and did on the tour, I would never have known about or seen if I had been by myself. I loved it from start to finish. Yes the overnight trains were not easy to sleep on, but I managed. Meeting locals on board was a high light for me. English is widely spoken in India and its amazing who you strike up a chat with. I had two problems on the tour - one my own fault and one hotel related. The support from Intrepid was amazing. I cannot thank them enough for going the extra mile to support me. I recommend Intrepid 100% and have gone from thinking an organised tour is for people who don't know about Lonely Planet and can't do solo stuff, to realising its a faster, better, more fun way to get to know a country truly and deeply whilst on a bit of a budget. I will book again and again with Intrepid. I loved it that much! Big thanks to tour leader Daddy H. Devender for his help on day one, and Nick in the Oz office for his fab customer care skills. Also the person who staffed the emergency whatsapp in India - you saved my sanity helping me get there a day late! THANK YOU ALL X

Nicole  

North American Adventure

12-Oct-2021

This was my first international solo trip, but I never felt “alone” - there was always someone to go shopping, hike, or grab a quick bite with. The itinerary was a great balance between organized activities, while still allowing free time for exploring. Each location was unique and charming in its own way. Spending the night in the holy city of Moulay Idriss and wandering the winding streets of Chefchaouen were especially memorable. Thank you Mustapha and Intrepid for an incredible adventure!

Alice Norton (Google Reviewer)  

I have just completed a...

29-Feb-2024

I have just completed a 12 day food tour of Vietnam, and had an amazing time. Our tour leader was great, knowledgeable and kind, who helped throughout the trip with recommendations for places on our free days, and spas. All the food we tried was delicious. It is a very fast paced tour, and Bon tried to maximise our experiences for the best.

Henry Guy Robinson   United Kingdom

Cambodia Discovery

22-Jan-2024

The overall experience was fantastic. V good tour leader. All places visited had something special to do or see. I would book a tour with this company again. Only one negative tour hub is not I repeat not available to contact direct by phone.

Merouane Harkat   Uk

Explore Southern Africa

08-Mar-2024

Best trip ever was, 2 things I didn't like the black mamba stop was wasting day and village ,so 2 night I think was just wasting, I could do 2 days in Kruger, and one more night in delta

Alan Perrott (Google Reviewer)  

We had a fantastic time...

13-Aug-2024

We had a fantastic time on the Botswana Highlights tour recently. We chose Intrepid because it seemed to suit what we wanted - well planned itinerary, small group, comfortable without being overly luxurious (and pricey), and supportive of the local community and environment. We weren't disappointed, and as we met with other like-minded travellers then we all had a great time. We are already planning our next Intrepid tour - maybe Vietnam & Cambodia :-)

1 Select your preferred date

Monday - Thursday

Nov 18, 2024 - Nov 28, 2024
$2620 $2227

Operator discount: -$393

Friday - Monday

Dec 20, 2024 - Dec 30, 2024
$2585

Monday - Thursday

Mar 03, 2025 - Mar 13, 2025
$2265

Monday - Thursday

Mar 10, 2025 - Mar 20, 2025
$2265

Friday - Monday

Mar 21, 2025 - Mar 31, 2025
$2360

Friday - Monday

Mar 28, 2025 - Apr 07, 2025
$2335

Monday - Thursday

Apr 07, 2025 - Apr 17, 2025
$2330

Monday - Thursday

Apr 14, 2025 - Apr 24, 2025
$2420

Friday - Monday

Apr 18, 2025 - Apr 28, 2025
$2470

Friday - Monday

Apr 25, 2025 - May 05, 2025
$2330

Friday - Monday

May 02, 2025 - May 12, 2025
$2355

Monday - Thursday

Sep 01, 2025 - Sep 11, 2025
$2240

Friday - Monday

Sep 12, 2025 - Sep 22, 2025
$2240

Friday - Monday

Sep 19, 2025 - Sep 29, 2025
$2330

Friday - Monday

Sep 26, 2025 - Oct 06, 2025
$2330

Friday - Monday

Oct 03, 2025 - Oct 13, 2025
$2420

Friday - Monday

Oct 10, 2025 - Oct 20, 2025
$2420

Friday - Monday

Oct 17, 2025 - Oct 27, 2025
$2420

Friday - Monday

Oct 24, 2025 - Nov 03, 2025
$2420

Friday - Monday

Oct 31, 2025 - Nov 10, 2025
$2420

Monday - Thursday

Nov 10, 2025 - Nov 20, 2025
$2330

Monday - Thursday

Nov 17, 2025 - Nov 27, 2025
$2330

Tuesday - Friday

Nov 25, 2025 - Dec 05, 2025
$2240

Tuesday - Friday

Dec 23, 2025 - Jan 02, 2026
$2240

Monday - Thursday

Mar 02, 2026 - Mar 12, 2026
$2350

Monday - Thursday

Mar 09, 2026 - Mar 19, 2026
$2350

Friday - Monday

Mar 20, 2026 - Mar 30, 2026
$2350

Monday - Thursday

Apr 06, 2026 - Apr 16, 2026
$2445

Friday - Monday

Apr 17, 2026 - Apr 27, 2026
$2445

Friday - Monday

May 01, 2026 - May 11, 2026
$2350

Monday - Thursday

Aug 31, 2026 - Sep 10, 2026
$2350

Friday - Monday

Sep 11, 2026 - Sep 21, 2026
$2445

Friday - Monday

Sep 18, 2026 - Sep 28, 2026
$2445

Friday - Monday

Oct 02, 2026 - Oct 12, 2026
$2540

Friday - Monday

Oct 09, 2026 - Oct 19, 2026
$2540

Friday - Monday

Oct 16, 2026 - Oct 26, 2026
$2540

Friday - Monday

Oct 23, 2026 - Nov 02, 2026
$2540

Friday - Monday

Oct 30, 2026 - Nov 09, 2026
$2540

Monday - Thursday

Nov 09, 2026 - Nov 19, 2026
$2540

Monday - Thursday

Nov 16, 2026 - Nov 26, 2026
$2445

Friday - Monday

Nov 27, 2026 - Dec 07, 2026
$2445

Monday - Thursday

Dec 21, 2026 - Dec 31, 2026
$2350

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

    Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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