Planning 3 weeks in Nepal? This complete itinerary blends culture, adventure, nature, and trekking—taking you from the ancient temples of Kathmandu to the jungles of Chitwan and the stunning Himalayas around Pokhara.
Perfect for first-timers and adventurers alike, here’s how to spend three unforgettable weeks in Nepal.
🇳🇵 Week 1: Culture & Heritage in Kathmandu Valley
Day 1–3: Explore Kathmandu
Visit Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath, and Boudhanath
Shop for trekking gear in Thamel
Day 4–5: Bhaktapur & Patan
Marvel at ancient courtyards, wood-carved temples
Try local Newari cuisine (e.g., samay baji)
💡 Pro Tip: Visit Durbar Squares at Night
Don’t skip the Durbar Squares after dark.
Whether it’s Patan, Bhaktapur, or Kathmandu Durbar Square, these historic plazas are peaceful and beautifully lit at night. Fewer crowds, cool air, and the warm glow of temples make for a magical, almost meditative experience.
🧘♂️ Patan Durbar Square is especially serene—grab a tea from a local vendor and sit on the palace steps to soak it all in.
Day 6: Nagarkot or Dhulikhel
Enjoy Himalayan views & peaceful hilltop stays
💡 Pro Tip: Hike Your Way to Nagarkot & Catch the Best Sunrise
Nagarkot isn’t just a drive-up hill station—you can actually hike there from several places in the Kathmandu Valley! A popular and scenic route is from Bhaktapur to Nagarkot, which takes around 4–5 hours through terraced fields and local villages.
Other routes include:
Changu Narayan to Nagarkot (~3–4 hours) – A quiet trail starting from a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Sankhu to Nagarkot (~5–6 hours) – A bit more remote and peaceful
Dhulikhel to Nagarkot (multi-day option via Namo Buddha) – For the more adventurous
🌄 Sunrise in Nagarkot is its main claim to fame, offering stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Mt. Everest on clear days.
🛏️ Pro Tip: Don’t trust the hotel brochure blindly—ask the hotel staff where the best sunrise spot is nearby. Some hotels advertise mountain views, but actual visibility varies.
⏰ Wake up early (around 4:30–5:00 AM) to get to the right viewpoint in time—it’s 100% worth it.
🐘 Week 2: Jungle Adventure in Chitwan + Pokhara
Day 7–9: Chitwan National Park
Jeep safaris, canoeing, birdwatching
Visit the Tharu Cultural Museum
💡 Pro Tip: Wildlife is Wild—But Luck Helps!
We were lucky enough to spot a Bengal tiger, a rhino, several deer, and beautiful birds—all during a half-day jeep safari.
Your chances improve in early morning or late afternoon when animals are most active. Bring binoculars, stay quiet, and trust your guide’s instincts.
Learn more about Chitwan National Park’s wildlife and safari options on the World Wildlife Fund’s Chitwan page
Day 10–14: Pokhara Lakeside Vibes
Boating on Phewa Lake
Visit Devi’s Falls, World Peace Pagoda
Optional: Paragliding or Zip-lining
🥾 Week 3: Trekking the Himalayas (Poon Hill)
Day 15–19: Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
Sunrise from Poon Hill (3210m) is breathtaking
Pass through Ghandruk, rhododendron forests
Before your trek, check the latest permit requirements at Nepal Tourism Board Trekking Permits.
Day 20–21: Return & Wind Down
Head back to Kathmandu
Shop & enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant
💬 Final Thoughts
This 3-week Nepal itinerary is just one example of how you can experience the best of this incredible country. From the rich culture and ancient artistry of Kathmandu and the Durbar Squares, to the wildlife adventures in Chitwan National Park, and the breathtaking natural beauty of the Himalayas around Pokhara and Poon Hill — it’s a perfect blend for any traveler.
Whether you’re seeking spiritual heritage, thrilling safaris, or majestic mountain views, Nepal offers all these in one unforgettable journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) — Practical Travel Tips for Nepal
1. When is the best time to travel to Nepal?
The ideal time to visit Nepal is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and the best trekking conditions.
2. What’s the best way to exchange money in Nepal?
You can exchange foreign currency at banks, authorized money changers, and at the airport. Always check the current exchange rates and avoid street money changers to prevent scams.
3. Should I carry cash or rely on cards?
While ATMs and card payments are available in major cities and tourist areas, it’s wise to carry enough cash, especially when traveling to remote areas, trekking, or small villages where card acceptance is limited.
4. Are there Uber-like taxi services in Nepal?
Yes! Popular ride-hailing apps like Pathao and Tootle operate in Kathmandu and nearby cities, offering convenient and affordable motorcycle and car rides, much like Uber or Lyft.
5. Can I drink tap water in Nepal?
It’s strongly recommended not to drink tap water. Always drink bottled or filtered water, or use a water purifier to avoid waterborne illnesses.
6. What type of clothes should I pack for Nepal?
Pack lightweight, breathable clothes for warmer months and warm layers for colder seasons and trekking. Modest clothing is advised when visiting temples or rural areas—covering shoulders and knees shows respect for local culture.
For more insights and travel tips, find out more about Nepal from my other blogs covering amazing places to visit and useful tips to make your trip unforgettable.