Nepal Golden Triangle Tour
80 reviews in Tripadvisor
Trip Duration
8 DaysDestination
NepalMax. Altitude
1,600 m.Trip Difficulty
EasyGroup Size
1-12Transportation
Private Vehicle/JeepAccommodation
HotelActivity
TourMeals
All InclusiveStart / End
KathmanduRegion
Kathmandu Valley, Annapurna and TeraiBest Season
Spring & Autumn
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+977 9764792172Trip Overview
Very few countries offer the opportunity to let you witness mountains, culture and wildlife all in one short tour. That’s exactly what the Nepal Golden Triangle Tour offers you. This is one of the most popular Nepal tour package to get the best from Nepal within few days.
The reason why this route is called the Golden Triangle is the combination of three main cities that creates a loop while traveling. Every place is very unique and together they provide travelers with a complete picture of what Nepal is really about. In particular, this Nepal Tour Package includes Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan which are located quite close to each other which make it efficient to travel from one destination to another destination.
Kathmandu is the starting point of the tour, and you will be able to see ancient temples, crowded streets and history of centuries in this beautiful valley. After Kathmandu, comes Chitwan with wildlife and jungle safaris. You will see Rhinos, elephant, and jungles instead of temple and busy streets. This destination focuses on nature before mountain take over.
Your final destination is Pokhara, and it is a nice place for relaxation. Lakeside view, panoramic view, Annapurna range, and relaxed atmosphere will be perfect to complete Nepal Golden Triangle Tour.
This Nepal sightseeing tour package can fit everyone, families, couples or solo travelers. There is no need for trekking experience and yet it will offer you sights that will stick in your mind forever.
If you have anywhere from one week to ten days to dedicate to vacation, this trip should be just perfect for you.
Why and Who can Join the Nepal Golden Triangle Tour
The only one reason why this tour exist is that many people don’t have enough time to go trekking in the Himalayas for week just to realize how great Nepal is. The majority prefer a bit of everything – culture, nature, and wildlife. This particular tour is meant for those tourists who want to see all the main attractions of Nepal in a very short period of time.
Who is it suitable for then? This is for everyone and anyone. Most of the families choose this Nepal Golden Triangle tour because it’s quite an easy and comfortable one. You don’t need to spend your days hiking through the high altitude and staying at a place where electricity isn’t available. Besides, the couples traveling together also enjoy this trip because of its romantic touch thanks to the lakes in Pokhara.
What solo travelers like about it is completely different. It allows one to cover much of the country without having to deal without any logistics and being sufficiently social to make you never feel lonely.
For older travelers or those with less time this tour will be interesting because of its flexibility and no requirement for high physical condition.
In short, if you want to have temples, mountains, and jungle on your tour without getting tired – this tour is created especially for you.
Highlights of Nepal Golden Triangle Tour
- Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu
- Enjoy sunrise over the Himalayas from Sarangkot
- Boating in Phewa Lake
- Visit Davis Falls and Gupteshwor Cave
- Jungle Safari Experience in Chitwan
- Tharu Traditional Stick Dance Performance
Photo Gallery & Video Gallery
Itinerary of Nepal Golden Triangle Tour
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Your Nepal Golden Triangle Tour starts once you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport. One of our representatives will be waiting you with a private vehicle to transport you to the hotel.
After reaching your hotel, you can check in, have some rest or take a quick stroll around Thamel area.
Your day will be quite easy and relaxed, letting you adjust yourself to the time zone and familiarize yourself with everything before you start exploring the place. Your guide will give you an overview of the days ahead, whether that is during dinner or through a brief meeting at the hotel.
Activity: Arrival and Hotel Check in
Max. Altitude: 1400m./4,593ft.
Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
Day 2: Sightseeing of Kathmandu
Today is mainly focused on exploring the main UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Kathmandu. Your first destination will be Kathmandu Durbar Square with its centuries old palace and temple.
Next, you will visit Swyambhunath, walking up the stone stairs to get to top for amazing views of the valley.
Your afternoon will take you to Pashupatinath Temple, which is considered the most holy place among Hindus and then Boudhanath Stupa, where you will walk clockwise direction around the stupas.
Activity: Full day sightseeing
Max. Altitude: 1400m./4,593ft.
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Chitwan by Private Vehicle
You will leave Kathmandu at an early hour in a private vehicle to head south toward Chitwan. This will take you on a journey through terraced landscapes, hills and across the Trishuli River until you come to flat lowlands of the Terai Region.
Upon reaching Chitwan, you will feel the warmer weather and a totally new environment like visiting a totally new country! You will have lunch at your jungle lodge and attend an orientation brief for safety information about tomorrow.
Activity: Drive (5 to 6 hours)
Max. Altitude: 150m./492ft.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
Day 4: Chitwan Full day Excursion
The entire day is for the jungle only. The early morning safaris start in a jeep that takes you inside Chitwan National Park, where one horned rhino, spotted dear, and more than thousand kinds of birds can be seen on this tour. This will be followed by a relaxed ride on the Rapti river on a canoe for viewing crocodiles on the river.
In the afternoon, there is a visit to a Tharu village, where the villagers will introduce you to their agricultural practices and ways of living. You then have a special cultural dance performance after dinner.
Activity: Jeep safari, Canoe ride and village visit
Max. Altitude: 150m./492ft.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
Day 5: Drive from Chitwan to Pokhara by Private Vehicle
Today will take you from the jungle to foothills of the Himalayas. On your way to Pokhara, you will travel along the Trusili and Marshyangdi River and the views will change from thick forest to terraces full of crops.
On arrival at Pokhara, entire atmosphere of the surrounding completely changes because of the relaxed environment and snowcapped peaks of Annapurna mountains which can be seen clearly on most days.
In the evening you can go a walk around Phewa Lake and end the day.
Activity: Drive (5 to 6 hours)
Max. Altitude: 822m./2,697ft.
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
Day 6: Sunrise Trip to Sarangkot and Pokhara Sightseeing
You will begin your day very early to reach Sarangkot at 4:30 am just in time for the sunrise. It will be worth waking up because of the beauty of watching the first sunrise light touching the peak of Annapurna and the Machhapuchhre peak.
Afterwards, you return to have breakfast and continue sightseeing in Pokhara. This includes boating at Phewa Lake, a visit to Davis Falls, exploration of the subterranean cave called Gupteshwor Cave, and a walk to the top of the World Peace Pagoda.
Activity: Sunrise Viewing and Sightseeing (6 to 7 hours)
Max. Altitude: 1600m./5,249ft.
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
Day 7: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu by Private Vehicle
This day’s itinerary takes us back to Kathmandu through the same route via Prithvi Highway. As we approach the end of our tour, this is the last opportunity to view the beautiful landscape of Nepal.
Arriving in Kathmandu brings to an end our Nepal Golden Triangle Tour. The evening is at leisure for some more shopping in Thamel area and a farewell dinner hosted by us to celebrate the completion of your tour.
Activity: Drive back (6 to 7 hours)
Max. Altitude: 1400m./4,593ft.
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
Day 8: Departure
Your tour ends here today. Based on your departure flight, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport.
This is the last transport of the entire vacation and the perfect way to end your full Nepal sightseeing tour by visiting the different places of Nepal’s culture, wildlife, and mountains.
Activity: Departure
Meal: Breakfast
If you are traveling in a private group, we can arrange a fully customized trip based on your preferences, group size, and travel dates, available any day you choose.
Includes/Excludes
What is included?
- Pick up drop up: Airport pick up and drop up from private transport.
- Accommodation: 3 nights accommodation in Kathmandu, 2 nights accommodation in Pokhara and 2 nights in Chitwan with full board in 3 Star hotel.
- Meals: Full board in Chitwan for three days breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Other days just breakfast.
- Private transport: Private transport all through the trip from car, van, Jeep, or coaster based on the number of persons.
- Guide: Guide accompanying you in English all through the trip.
- Farewell dinner in the traditional Nepali restaurant.
- Government tax, VAT, and Tourist Service charge fees.
What is not included?
- International Airfare: The airfare from and to Nepal via international flights is not included.
- Travel Insurance: Travel insurance covering emergency evacuation and rescue is not included.
- Personal Expenses: Personal expenses such as extra meals, beverages, snacks, electricity, hot water shower, WiFi, and any other personal expenses are not included.
- Entry Visa to Nepal: Entry visa fee to Nepal.
- Extra Expenses: Any expenses incurred on extended tours in Nepal after completion of the tour itinerary are not included.
- Entrance fees: Temple and monastery entry permit fees
Trip Information
How Difficult Is the Nepal Golden Triangle Tour
The good thing is that this tour won’t feel like you are running out of breath. The Golden Triangle route is designed to be an easy one and that the whole point of this tour. You are visiting some of the best places instead of conquering the mountain, so there is no need for heavy preparation.
There is still plenty of walking in Kathmandu, but nothing difficult. Just wear comfortable shoes and you are good. It will be even easier to visit Pokhara where you will have a lot of free time and chances to go on short hikes. For instance, you may decide to visit the World Peace Pagoda.
When you reach Chitwan, things get a little bit harder physically, but there are no extremes anyway. You can either walk in the jungle with a guide or try a canoeing or jeep safaris.
When it comes to altitude sickness, this will never be a problem because none of the three cities in the package is situated at high altitudes above sea level. This means that the Nepal Tour Package will be enjoyable even for families, seniors, and individuals who lack trekking experience.
So really, the difficult of this Nepal sightseeing tour is pretty minimal.
Preparation for Nepal Golden Triangle Tour
The preparation of Nepal sightseeing tour is easy compared to the preparation for trekking. There is no need for any special training or equipment use. A bit of preparation is enough for this tour.
First, get all the essential prepared like valid passport, Nepal visa which you can obtain it upon arrival and a travel insurance related to travel if you wish to.
As for packing, go easy on yourself. You will need comfortable walking shoes since you will be doing some walking in Kathmandu and on the jungles of Chitwan National Park. Lightweight clothing will be enough for most of the tour, although bringing a jacket will come in handy since nights in Pokhara might get a little colder.
Before heading out, check out the season as well. For clear mountain views and pleasant weather, you need to visit during spring and autumn. Apart from that, one just needs to have an open mind and perhaps pick up a little bit of basic Nepalese language. And lastly, but not the least, the camera is a necessity because of so much to photograph.
Bring insect repellant and sun cream inside your bag because the jungle will bring mosquitoes. A compact first aid kit will not be a bad idea because it is useful in case of minor cuts and rashes.
Kathmandu Sightseeing
Sightseeing in Kathmandu is the culture heart of Nepal Golden Triangle Tour and it definitely has some of the centuries old history into a small area.
Kathmandu Durbar Square is the first place you will visit during Nepal Sightseeing Tour. There are ancient places, courts, and many temples with beautiful craving in this square, which was used as a real palace of Nepal Kings before.
Another point to see in Kathmandu is Swyabhunath, which is more commonly known as Monkey Temple. This temple is located on the top of mountain and its golden spiral and Buddha eyes can be seen from far away.
Next up is Pashupatinath Temple, which feels very different than others. It is a sacred Hindu Temple on the banks of Bagmati River, which attract devotees from around the place. The energy here is extremely spiritual, and sometimes a little overpowering in the best way.
To finish up, you stop at Boudhanath Stupa. With a diameter of over 100 meters, it is one of the world’s biggest stupas and lies in the heart of vibrant Tibetan Buddhist neighborhood.
All together now, these places really allow you to experience the spirituality and history of Kathmandu!
Chitwan National Park Safari Experience
Chitwan add wildlife and thrill to this Kathmandu Pokhara Chitwan Tour package and it’s an entirely different experience from what you will experience from temples and lakes.
Jeep safaris let you explore the dense jungles through dirt tracks and spotting rhinos, deer and sometimes even tigers (if you’re lucky) really make this one of the highlights of the tour.
Canoeing along Rapti Rivers gives you quite a relaxing experience as compared to that of a Jeep safari. You get to see crocodiles and various water birds along the river.
The elephant breeding center does offer one an understanding of the conservation process being carried out to protect the giants.
And the Tharu village trip also provides cultural insight by taking one to experience the lifestyle of the indigenous people.
Pokhara Experience
Pokhara gives an entirely new vibes to this Nepal Tour Package. It is the time when the mountain views slowly take place and this is exactly what you need after the Kathmandu ancient history and Chitwan jungle safari.
There is Phewa Lake in the very center of the attraction. A boat trip across its calm waters in front of mirrored mountains is something that is really difficult to describe in words.
Another place to visit is Davis Falls. This beautiful little waterfall is right next to the road and is accompanied by loud sounds of water splashing.
Gupteshwor Cave is right next to Davis Falls, featuring underground caves as well as a religious shrine within.
World Peace Pagoda can offer its visitors a short hike, which will be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Pokhara and its surroundings. While it is not a difficult hike, still take some water just in case.
Sarangkot Sunrise is the number one experience for almost everyone. The sunrise above the Annapurna range and Machhapuchhre is truly breathtaking.
Cultural Festivals During this tour
The festival in Nepal creates a totally different kind of vibes for the Nepal Golden Triangle Tour. In case you plan your vacation to coincide with any one of them, then you are in for a truly memorable experience.
Dashain is without a doubt Nepal’s greatest festival, which take place somewhere between September and November. During this time, the entire country will come alive with celebration, people will come together, the skies will fill with kites and the streets of cities like Kathmandu will have the festive feel that can only be experienced by visiting them.
Tihar comes just right after Dashain, known as the Festival of Lights because of the beautiful displays oil lamps and decorative items in the house and on the streets. Tihar nights in Kathmandu are absolutely stunning, probably the best time to stroll in the city.
Festival of color, Holi is usually held in March. Colorful fight takes place in streets of Kathmandu and Pokhara, when residents and tourists throw color to each other as if it was done by long-time friends.
Indra Jatra is known for masked dances and chariots in the square Durbar of Kathmandu. It is usually held in September to honoring living goddess Kumari as well as other gods and goddesses.
Cultural festivals of the Tharu community take place in Chitwan all year round. Stick dances and folklore performances are usually included in your jungle adventure, no matter when you are going on your excursion.
In case your Nepal travel package coincides with one of the above-described festivals, your guide will show how to join celebrations of local people respectfully and with the least intrusion. Participating in festivities of local residents, even for a brief time, gives you a true taste of your trip that is not easy to arrange in advance.
Communication and Language on Kathmandu Pokhara Chitwan Tour
Nepali is the national language, but English is widely spoken almost in all tourist destinations. The tour guides, hotel staff and some local people know English. So, communication should not be an issue for most of the time.
In Kathmandu, English signs on the streets and English-speaking guides make traveling easy. Most of the shopkeepers in the Thamel area are fluent in English and even can speak several other languages like German, French and even Spanish. This is why Nepal sightseeing tour in Nepal is more convenient than others.
Even in Pokhara, the lakeside area is also easily accessible because the staff from cafe, hotels and trekking store deal with tourist every day. Menu prices and all other signboard on the streets of the tourist zone are in English.
However, Chitwan is a bit more distant from the city. English becomes a little common once you go out from the hotel and the safari office. This is where the guide will help you in communicating in these conditions.
In summary, communication will not be a problem in this travel of yours in Kathmandu Pokhara Chitwan tour.
Best Time for Nepal Golden Tringle Tour
Spring (March to May)
Spring is one of the most preferred times because of the nice weather, blooming rhododendron flowers and clear sky to view the Annapurna range from Sarangkot.
Autumn (September to November)
This season is also a best season for most people. It is the best time in Nepal for clear skies and some best mountain view. And since Dashain and Tihar festival usually take place during this time, it is even more preferred.
Winter (December to February)
Winter is generally not preferred as much as spring or autumn, but it is not a bad time either. The weather is nice during daytime in the valley while morning and evening become very cold, particularly in Pokhara.
Monsoon (June to August)
Monsoon is considered as the most difficult season to travel in Nepal. There is rain almost every day, the mountain views are usually covered and the roads become very muddy.
Food and Dining
Food also becomes another factor that make this tour enjoyable for travelers. To try popular and local cuisine of each location is unique experience which bring its own local flavors and international options to the table.
Nepali national dish Dal Bhat plays a huge role throughout the entire journey. It is basically a mixture of lentils, rice, vegetable and some pickles which still happens to be the staple dish in Nepal, so it will be in all menus. There are also other options like momos, noodles, thukpa, fried rice and many others which taste might be different based on where you are.
For internation dish, both Kathmandu and Pokhara offers variety food. Italian, Indian, Chinese and continental menus are all available. While Chitwan has a more local approach, offering mostly local foods and foods prepared by the lodges, fresh homemade meals become a true pleasure, as they give you a chance to experience real Nepali cuisine.
For vegetarians, there is no problem in getting proper vegetarian food in any part of this entire Nepal tour package as Nepali food naturally includes a lot of vegetables.
Transportation
Transportation used for Nepal Golden Triangle tour is not very difficult as, there are several options available which depends only on your preferences.
Private Vehicle is used for most travel in this tour. Air-conditioned cars are used for traveling from one city to another, providing comfort and opportunities for making frequent stops whenever you need.
Another option for traveling during this tour is using tourist bus. The buses operate regularly between cities and are made especially for tourists’ convenience and comfortable enough, but with fixed schedule of operation.
If you want to travel fast, domestic flights are a choice that may suit your needs. The distance between Kathmandu to Pokhara can be covered within 25 minutes flying through the air, compared to 5-6 hours of driving.
During the entire tour from Kathmandu to Pokhara Chitwan uses private vehicle for travelling. And it is a much better option when considering both comfort and viewing of the Nepalese countryside.
Health and Safety
Health and safety on the Nepal Tour Package are easy to manage but some precaution will ensure that the entire journey goes smoothly.
Altitude won’t be an issue here, since the highest point this tour goes is approximately 1,600 m when you are going for Sarangkot sunrise view. The tour is suitable for tourists of almost any physical capabilities, and you do not have to worry about acclimatization at all.
When it comes to water drinking, you need to be careful. You have to use bottled water throughout the trip. And do not drink tap water (even for washing your mouth). Luckily, all hotels and lodges will provide you with drinking water.
Food safety is another important factor as well. You need to eat freshly cooked food and avoid any junk food to ensure smooth travel during the Kathmandu Pokhara Chitwan Tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Autumn (September-November) and spring (March-May) are the two most convenient seasons when the weather is nice for sightseeing tour of Kathmandu, jungle safari and watching the mountains.
Approximately 7-8 days is required for this package that covers 3 destinations. The tours of any different durations are also possible according to individual preference and schedule.
Yes, this Nepal Sightseeing tour package is good for the family with kids as well due to the minimal walking and trekking included in the program.
The Chitwan National Park is abundant with wild animals, thus there is possibility but not guaranty that you will see the rhino, deer, crocodile and even Bengal tiger.
There are several ways, either transfer in private transport or by domestic flight depends on your convenience and budget.
Yes, you can expect a whole day tour that includes sites such as Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, and Pashupatinath. This entire tour will have a guide accompanying you throughout.
Shoes that you can walk in, layer clothes, sunscreen, insect repellent etc. This will cover your packing requirements. Even a light jacket will be helpful especially in early morning in Pokhara and Sarangkot.
Meals are provided fully in Chitwan and only breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara. This allows you the freedom to explore local restaurants and try out their cuisines.
No, altitude sickness will not affect you as these locations are not located in high altitudes anywhere in this tour itinerary.
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