Asia · Destination guide
Nepal
Nepal does not have to mean a high-altitude trek. You can build a holiday around Kathmandu Valley’s heritage, Pokhara’s lakeside setting or Chitwan’s wildlife landscape. Decide first whether you want gentle sightseeing or a journey built around walking.
- Culture
- Mountains
- Lakes
Your starting point
Separate a touring holiday from a trekking plan
For a non-trekking introduction, consider 6–8 nights across Kathmandu and Pokhara. Add Chitwan with extra time if wildlife is a priority. A trek gets its own conversation about the exact route, duration, preparation and support, so we plan it as a journey in its own right rather than an extra day on a city holiday.
Suggested lengths are starting points for a conversation. Your final route depends on your dates, interests and availability.
Kathmandu Valley: more than one historic centre
Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur have distinct heritage areas. Choose a manageable sequence instead of trying to see all three in a single day. Tell us if temples, architecture, crafts or photography are the main reason for your visit. [1]
Pokhara: lakeside time and mountain surroundings
Pokhara is a gateway to the Annapurna region and a place to enjoy Phewa Lake and the mountain setting. We keep some flexibility in the plan for viewpoints, so you can head up when the peaks are clear. [2]
Chitwan: a different landscape
Chitwan National Park offers guided nature activities including jeep outings, walks and canoe trips. We pick the activities that suit your group and are running on your dates. [3]
When to go
Altitude changes the weather picture
Nepal’s climate varies from the southern plains to the high mountains. The tourism board identifies spring and autumn as common trekking seasons, with much of the annual rain falling during June–September. Kathmandu, Pokhara and a mountain trail each need different preparation, so we settle the route first and match the season to it. [4]
Getting around
Leave space around the journey between bases
We set out the road or air connection for each leg, with realistic transfer allowances for your dates. We avoid returning from a distant base immediately before the international flight home, and keep a margin that suits the route, with a clear plan if a connection changes.
Follow your curiosity
More places to consider
If Nepal caught your eye, follow the scenery, experiences or places that interest you.
- A nearby choice
India
Choose one region for its heritage, landscapes and food instead of trying to cover the whole country.
- Similar scenery
Queenstown
Compare lake scenery, mountain outings and outdoor days from a settled Queenstown base.
- Similar scenery
Switzerland
Choose scenic rail, lake towns and flexible mountain days from a small number of Swiss bases.
Make it yours
Your trip. Your kind of days.
Tell us whether this is a touring holiday or a trekking enquiry, your preferred walking level, and whether mountain views or wildlife are the main priority.
A little clarity before you go
Questions before you plan
Can we enjoy Nepal without trekking?
Yes. A trip focused on valley heritage, Pokhara and optional Chitwan time can be planned around sightseeing rather than a mountain trek. Share your preferred walking level so the itinerary and accommodation choices match the holiday you want.
What should we tell you if we do want a trek?
Start with the exact trail or experience you have in mind, your available days and previous walking experience. We then plan it with you and confirm the permit, guide and access rules for your specific route before anything is booked.
Need help with the arrangements? Explore our travel services, or compare more destinations in Asia.
Official planning sources · checked 16 October 2026
- Nepal Tourism Board: Kathmandu Valley
- Nepal Tourism Board: Pokhara’s setting
- Nepal Tourism Board: Chitwan National Park
- Nepal Tourism Board: climate by region
Route lengths and pacing are our planning suggestions. Official sources provide destination background, and we confirm opening arrangements, transport and entry requirements for your travel dates as we plan your trip.
