Kathmandu Pokhara Chitwan Tour

Weather and Best Season for the Tour

The Kathmandu Pokhara Chitwan tour is ideal in spring (March–May) and autumn (Sept–Nov), when the weather is clear and mild. During these seasons, the temperature at Kathmandu and Pokhara during the day is approximately 15 25 °C, and the nights are cool (5-10 °C), and the scenery of the mountains is normally clear. The spring is full of wildflowers and green hills, and autumn is full of fresh air and colorful festivals.

Monsoon (June–Aug) brings heavy rain across Nepal. Chitwan’s jungles become lush but muddy, and highway travel slows under downpours. Pokhara and Kathmandu get frequent showers; humidity is high and warm (often 30°C).

Rain gear and quick-dry clothing are needed if you travel then. Winter (Dec–Feb) is cooler and drier. Kathmandu’s nights can dip near freezing (especially Dec/Jan), though days are sunny.

Pokhara remains mild (20°C daytime) with cooler nights. Chitwan’s winter nights can be cool, but days are pleasant. All seasons are good, but spring and autumn are suggested when you want to sightsee easily and see a clear view. Bring: a rain jacket and warm clothes on cold nights.

Food & Drink during the Tour

Food on this Kathmandu Pokhara Chitwan tour package is hearty and flavorful. The Nepali cuisine is built on dal bhat (lentils and rice) along with vegetables, curry, and pickles. Breakfast in hotels often includes Nepali and Western options: eggs, porridge, toast, or Tibetan thukpa noodle soup.

Popular dishes include momos (steamed dumplings), curries, and soups. You will also try regional specialties: river fish (trout) in Pokhara, and Tharu-style grilled meats in Chitwan. Vegetarians will find many dishes that use lentils, beans, and vegetables – just inform us of any dietary needs in advance.

You should avoid drinking tap water. Your hotels will serve filtered or bottled water, and you can also take water purification tablets if you wish. Try to drink as much as possible, particularly during hot or dry seasons.

In towns, tea, including ginger tea or masala chai, is generally safe to drink. We would like to recommend that you do not consume raw salads because it might be washed or prepared using unhygienic water.

Altitude Sickness and Suggestions

The Kathmandu Pokhara Chitwan tour stays at relatively low elevations, so altitude sickness is not a concern for most travelers. Kathmandu (1,350m) and Pokhara (822m) are at moderate altitudes, and Chitwan (150–415m) is lowland.

Even a quick trip to Sarangkot (1,590m) poses little risk for acute mountain sickness. Symptoms like headache or nausea usually occur above 2,500–3,000m, which this itinerary does not reach.

Nonetheless, individual sensitivity varies. General advice is to stay hydrated (drink 2–3 liters of water per day) and avoid heavy exertion on the first day. On arrival in Kathmandu, rest and let your body adjust.

Avoid alcohol for the first night, and eat light meals. Chewing ginger or pine nuts is a traditional remedy locals use for slight discomfort. If you have a history of altitude issues or plan to trek higher after this tour, consult a doctor about medication (e.g., acetazolamide) before travel. Our guides will monitor everyone’s well-being; just inform them if you feel unwell so they can assist or slow the pace.

Visa and Permits

All visitors need a tourist visa to enter Nepal. However, Nepal has a visa on arrival at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport. The existing rates (which may vary) are around 30 USD per 15 days, 50 USD per 30 days, and 125 USD per 90 days.

You will fill out a form on the flight or at the airport, then pay the fee in cash (USD, EUR, etc.) or credit card at the visa counter. You need a passport valid for at least 6 months and with at least 2 blank pages.

It’s wise to bring a passport-size photo, although e-Visa applicants upload an image, and on-arrival counters often take a photo. Alternatively, you can apply for an e-Visa online (Nepal Immigration website) before departure.

For this tour, no special trekking permits are required, since we do not enter restricted mountain regions. However, entrance fees to Chitwan National Park are included in the package.

When you check into your jungle lodge, park permits and conservation fees will already be arranged by Himalayan Adventure Treks. In case you have any additional side trips (such as a wildlife outing outside the park or other activities, such as rafting or wildlife reserves), please inform us so that we can recommend any extra permits or fees.

Always bring with you a copy of your visa and permit papers; your guide will assist in the preservation of these documents.

Health & Safety

Nepal is mostly safe for tourists, although good common sense can be used to make the travelling trouble-free. Pick pocketing or petty theft may happen in busy markets in such cities as Kathmandu and Pokhara. Keep valuables (passport, electronics) secured and use hotel safes.

Don’t leave bags unattended. Drinking water and sanitation are the biggest health concerns. Never drink tap water; brush teeth with bottled or boiled water. Avoid ice or raw foods that may have been washed in local water. Carry hand sanitizer for restrooms.

In Chitwan’s jungle, insect-borne illness is a concern. Dengue or malaria (low but exists) can be transmitted by mosquitoes. Apply DEET insect repellent to exposed skin and think about long sleeves/pants during the time of dawn/evening.

Sleep under a net if provided. If you have any respiratory or heart conditions, be cautious in hot or humid weather; take it easy and stay hydrated. Traveling with a basic first-aid kit (plasters, painkillers, diarrhea medicine) is wise.

Transportation

Transportation throughout the Kathmandu Pokhara Chitwan tour package is by private vehicle. For each road segment (Kathmandu–Chitwan, Chitwan–Pokhara, Pokhara–Kathmandu), we provide a comfortable air-conditioned van or coach with a professional driver. The drives are scenic but can be long and winding. We stop for rest, meals, and photo breaks on the way, making the journey part of the experience.

Within cities, short transfers (hotel to airport or hotel to dinner) are done by taxi or van. Many attractions in Kathmandu and Pokhara are close enough for short walks or quick rickshaw rides; your guide will help with these if needed (rickshaws are cheap and common). All vehicles have seat belts – please use them.

Helicopter flights are not included (though flights between Kathmandu and Pokhara can be arranged as an extra if you prefer to avoid driving). In any case, the included road travel allows you to see rural Nepal and local life en route, which is part of the adventure. Fuel, tolls, and driver costs are covered in the tour price.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is strongly recommended and often required. We advise you to get a comprehensive policy that covers at least the Kathmandu Pokhara Chitwan tour duration plus extensions. It should include medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellation.

Emergency helicopter rescue in mountainous areas can cost tens of thousands of dollars – insurance will cover this. The tour organizer may request proof of insurance before departure.

Look for a policy that covers the total trip cost (in case you must cancel) and includes emergency medical care in Nepal. Keep a copy of your insurance documents (physical and email/phone for 24-hour assistance) with you. Check that your policy covers adventure activities (like jungle safari, river trips) if you plan to do any beyond the standard itinerary.

We will not be able to assist financially if you need medical care, so confirm your insurance is in order before traveling. Remember, travel insurance must be purchased before the trip starts and cannot be bought on arrival in Nepal.

Your Extra Expenses on the Trip

The above list is just a few of the items that will be included in the tour price, though you will need to budget a few dollars of your own. Here are the common ones:

• Meals and beverages: In the itinerary, included meals are mentioned (mainly breakfasts and some lunches). Any other food, snacks, soft drinks, and alcohol are optional. A meal at Kathmandu or Pokhara restaurants will cost approximately 5–10 dollars. Sodas or bottled water are approximately $0.50–1.00. Coffee or tea is around $1.
• Tipping: Not a part of the tour price, but it is customary in Nepal. We recommend about $3–5 USD per day for your guide and $1–2 per day for your driver. Tips for hotel staff and waiters (10% if service is not included) are appreciated. These are voluntary but expected in Nepali tourism.
• Souvenirs & personal: Souvenir shopping (carpets, handicrafts, pashmina, trekking gear) is up to you. Bargaining is common in markets. Budget a bit extra if you want handicrafts. Also, any additional activities (an Everest flight, paragliding, extra rafting, spa) would cost extra (ranging from $50–200).
• Communication & miscellaneous: Most hotels have free Wi-Fi. If you want mobile data, buy a Nepali SIM card (around $3–5 for a basic pack) and top up as needed. You may pay small fees for laundry or phone calls at hotels.
• Laundry & extras: Hotels charge a small fee for laundry or late check-out. You’ll need cash for these as well.

Have US dollars or Euros to exchange for Nepalese rupees (use banks or ATMs for the best rate). Chitwan and some towns have limited ATM access, so stock up in Kathmandu/Pokhara. In short, aside from the listed inclusions, carry some cash for meals, tips, souvenirs, and optional activities.

Language & Communication

Nepali is the official language of Nepal, but English is widely used in tourism. Your guide and hotel staff will speak fluent English, and most signs/menus in Kathmandu Pokhara and Chitwan are in English or Roman script. You will also hear Hindi, Newari, and various regional tongues among locals.

As a visitor, learning a few Nepali phrases can be fun and appreciated: for example, “Namaste” (pronounced nah-mah-stay) is a polite greeting meaning “hello” and “goodbye,” and “Dhaniyaabad” (dhah-nyah-bahd) means “thank you.” However, it is not necessary to speak Nepali; you’ll get by fine with English in all tourist areas.

Most hotels and cafés offer free Wi-Fi. Mobile networks (3G/4G) cover Kathmandu, Pokhara, and highway routes, though coverage in the deep jungle is spotty. To stay connected, you can buy a local SIM card (Ncell or NTC) at the airport or a city shop (make sure your phone is unlocked).

Data plans in Nepal are inexpensive. You can use messaging apps (WhatsApp/Viber) to call home cheaply. Just remember that electricity and internet service can occasionally be unstable; bring your charger and enjoy offline time in nature, too.

Nepalese people are generally warm and friendly, and a smile goes a long way. Avoid gestures like pointing at people or calling someone out in public. Reaching out to pat an elephant or monkey is also frowned upon.

In temples and homes, remove your shoes. Following these simple communication tips will help you feel at home. Your guide will also help translate and explain local customs as you travel.

Don’ts on this Trip

During the Kathmandu Pokhara Chitwan tour package, it is important to follow local customs so your journey remains smooth and respectful. You are also expected to dress modestly at temples and never expose your shoulders and knees, but take off your hats and footwear when walking into holy locations.

Touching the head of people is not allowed; the head is considered a sacred part of the body and should never be touched without permission before capturing close-up shots of local people, monks, or villagers.

Shooting photographs at the burning ground of Pashupatinath or within temple shrines is not permitted. Nepal does not show affection publicly, and thus, greetings should be kept minimal with a nice Namaste.

When you need to gesture, try to avoid pointing with your fingers and use a gentle open hand. Maintain cleanliness in the environment by means of not littering and minimizing the use of single-use plastics.

To ensure your safety, you should never walk alone in the Chitwan jungle and should always stick with your guide. You are also not to drink tap water or eat unpeeled fruit. With these few rules in mind, you will stay safe, comfortable, and respectful, and will also have a pleasant experience of warmer communication with local people during your trip.

Trip Extension

If you have extra days, Nepal offers many wonderful extensions beyond the Kathmandu Pokhara Chitwan tour:

Everest or Annapurna Flights: You may include a scenic mountain flight. An Everest Panorama Flight takes off from Kathmandu; it is a 1-hour expedition that offers a surreal aerial perspective of Mount Everest and other mountains. At Pokhara, other flights also display Machhapuchhre and Annapurna. These are the short flights that are best in the early morning.

Treks: Extend into a trek. Based in Pokhara, a 3- to 7-day hike to Ghorepani (Poon Hill) or the Base Camp of Annapurna is to be considered. Treks can be made to Langtang Valley or Gosainkunda Lake (5-7 days) out of Kathmandu. We can secure the permits, porters, and guides for these adventures in case you want to explore further.

Lumbini (Buddha was born): Drive or fly south to Lumbini in Rupandehi District (6-7 hours to Pokhara by road or short flight to nearby airport). Visit the Maya Devi Temple complex and monastic areas – a significant sacred place.

Cultural tours: Free days in Kathmandu Valley: explore the medieval squares of Bhaktapur, or drive to Nagarkot to see the sunrise over the Himalayas, or visit Bandipur village. You might as well use Chitwan stay to visit Bardia National Park (west Nepal) to see more wildlife.

International side trips: Nepal borders Bhutan and India. In case you want to keep traveling, we can assist in linking you to Kathmandu country tours or Pokhara tours.
We have added nights or activities, which we can tailor to your interests. It could be a cooking lesson, an additional trek, or resting in a resort; we will assist you in designing a personalized extension to your tour package.

Photography & Drone Rules

Nepal offers stunning photo opportunities, but please observe local rules. You may take pictures freely in most scenic areas. Nevertheless, never photograph without seeking permission, particularly of monks or villagers, and never take photos of people bathing, or in prayer.

At religious sites, follow signage: for example, no photography is allowed inside some temple sanctums, and you cannot photograph the cremation ceremonies at Pashupatinath.

Drone usage: The use of drones in Nepal is strictly controlled. It is not possible to fly a drone in Kathmandu Valley (heritage areas) or Chitwan National Park without permission. To obtain a drone permit, the Nepalese aviation authorities will need to approve the application in paperwork.

For simplicity, we recommend leaving your drone packed during the tour. If you do fly one, stay well away from temples, crowds, and wildlife. The guide will inform you when and where photography is allowed.

In short, enjoy capturing landscapes, temples, and people with respect. Our guide will help you identify the best photo spots and let you know if any area is off-limits to photography. This way, you’ll return home with beautiful memories and great pictures of your Kathmandu Pokhara Chitwan tour.

Cultural Festivals on the Trail

Nepal is a country that has numerous festivals on an annual basis. During the dates of your traveling, you may experience colorful local festivals. As an example, the largest Hindu festival in Nepal is Dashain (Sept/Oct), attended by the general population and families. Tihar (Oct/Nov), the festival of lights (Diwali), is the season when towns are lit up with oil lamps and people venerate animals such as cows and dogs.

Holi (March) is the spring festival of colours, and people play around throwing coloured powders. The Indra Jatra (Sept) dance in Kathmandu has masked dances in Durbar Square. In Chitwan, the Tharu New Year, called Tharu Maghi (Jan), is celebrated through traditional dances and feasts. You can also visit Buddhist celebrations such as Losar (Tibetan New Year, around Feb) or Buddha Jayanti (May, Buddha birthday), provided that they coincide.

These festivals are a source of color and meaning to everyday life. If one falls during your tour, feel free to observe respectfully – you might be offered sweets or a simple blessing. Just remember that crowds or temple ceremonies may make some sites busier or temporarily closed. Your guide will keep you informed if we pass through any festivals, so you can enjoy the experience safely.

Tips for First-Time Visitors

On the Kathmandu Pokhara Chitwan tour package, travelers often find these tips helpful:

• Wear many layers: In the morning/ evening, it can be cold (this happens particularly in Kathmandu), whereas in the afternoon, it gets hot. Bring a light jacket, T-shirts, and at least one warm-up sweater/ fleece. It is good to carry a raincoat or umbrella in summer.
• Carry small cash: ATMs are common in cities but not in villages or Chitwan. Have enough Nepalese rupees (NPR) or USD for souvenirs, tips, and meals in smaller places. Notify your bank before travel so your cards work abroad.
• Dress modestly: Cover knees and shoulders at temples. When off-duty, western casual is fine, but always keep legs/arms covered at shrines or in villages. A sunhat and sunscreen are strongly recommended for mountain sun.
• Sturdy shoes: Bring comfortable walking shoes or sandals with a good grip. You will walk on uneven surfaces (old streets, forest trails), so avoid flimsy footwear.
• Sun and bugs: Sunscreen, lip balm, and sunglasses will protect you in higher-altitude sun. In Chitwan, carry mosquito repellent, especially for dusk safari rides.
• Essentials: Pack personal items (toiletries, prescription meds, hand sanitizer) – these are available but sometimes limited in small shops. Carry tissues for public restrooms.
• Electricity: Nepal uses 230V, round-pin outlets (type C/D). Power outages occur, so bring a phone charger and maybe a power bank. Most hotels have good water pressure, but bring swimwear if you want to swim in your hotel pool.
• Behavior: Nepalis are friendly and soft-spoken. A quick “Namaste” (hands together in greeting) goes a long way. Always request permission before taking someone’s photo. Do not raise your voice in the open air. It is okay to bargain in stores, but in a good mood.
• Lastly, breathe and have fun. Many things run on “Nepal time,” which means schedules can be relaxed. Try to stay flexible and enjoy the slower pace. Learn to take the time and be hospitable. When you want to learn more about something or your preferences, please ask your guide at any point in time. We want to make it a safe and enjoyable first-time visit to Nepal.

Major Attractions

The Kathmandu Pokhara Chitwan tour package covers these major attractions:

World Heritage sites in Kathmandu include Kathmandu Durbar Square (a square in the royal palace with temples), the giant Bodhnath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple (a Hindu temple on the Bagmati River).

• Phewa Lake (Pokhara): This is a beautiful lake where one can go boating, see the reflections of mountains in the lake, and there is also the island of Barahi Temple.
• Sarangkot: A hilltop-based viewpoint that provides panoramic views of the sunrise of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) mountains.
• Davis Fall & Gupteshwor Cave: the popular waterfall (Devi Fall) of Pokhara that falls into a cave, and the cave shrine.
• Peace Pagoda: This is a white Buddhist stupa located at the top of the hill overlooking Pokhara, the lake, and the Himalaya.
• Chitwan National Park: the national wildlife park of Nepal (UNESCO site), which is full of jungle and grassland.
• Jungle Safaris: in Chitwan, you can go on an elephant-back or jeep safari, a jungle walk, and a canoe tour on the Rapti River, where you see rhinos, deer, monkeys, crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species.
• Tharu Cultural Experience: Trip to the Tharu village, where traditional stilt houses, handicrafts, and folk dance held in Nepal in the Terai region are on display.

These destinations bring attention to Nepal and culture, nature, and adventure. At every stop, your guide will offer you some insights, and you can make the best out of this full-fledged tour.