Overview
The Nepal Short Trek with City Tour is an ideal trip for travelers who want to experience Nepal’s rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and diverse wildlife in a short time. This tour combines an exciting city exploration with an easy yet scenic trek in the foothills of the Annapurna region. Covering the historically significant Kathmandu, the charming hillside town of Bandipur, the serene city of Pokhara, the picturesque villages of Dhampus and Sarangkot, and the wildlife-rich Chitwan National Park, this trip provides a well-rounded experience of Nepal’s beauty.
The journey starts in Kathmandu, where travelers explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), and Kathmandu Durbar Square. The tour then moves to Bandipur, a beautifully preserved Newari town with stunning Himalayan views and cultural charm. In Pokhara, visitors enjoy the tranquil Phewa Lake, Davis Falls, and the World Peace Pagoda before starting a short but rewarding trek to Dhampus and Sarangkot. These locations provide spectacular sunrise and sunset views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The adventure concludes in Chitwan National Park, where travelers experience jungle safaris, canoe rides, and cultural encounters with the indigenous Tharu community. This tour is perfect for those looking for a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion in a short timeframe.
Best Time for Nepal Short Trek with City Tour
The best time to explore on the Nepal Short Trek with City Tour is during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). These seasons offer pleasant weather, clear skies, and breathtaking views of the Himalayas, making trekking and sightseeing enjoyable. In spring, the hills come alive with blooming rhododendrons and lush greenery, while the temperatures are moderate, creating perfect conditions for both city exploration and short treks. Wildlife spotting in Chitwan National Park is also excellent during this time.
Autumn is another ideal season, as it brings stable weather, crisp air, and stunning mountain visibility. The cultural sites in Kathmandu, Bandipur, and Pokhara are best explored in the comfortable temperatures of autumn. Winter (December-February) is also an option, especially for those who enjoy peaceful travel with fewer crowds. However, the mornings and evenings can be chilly, especially in the trekking areas. The monsoon season (June-August) is not recommended for trekking due to heavy rain and muddy trails, but Chitwan and city tours remain enjoyable due to lush greenery and vibrant cultural experiences.
Nepal Short Trek with City Tour Permits
Travelers on the Nepal Short Trek with City Tour need various permits depending on the destinations they visit. For the Kathmandu city tour, entrance fees apply for sites such as Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, and Pashupatinath Temple.
For the Dhampus and Sarangkot trek, the required permits include:
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) – This is necessary for trekking in the Annapurna region and helps with conservation efforts.
Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card – This card is required for all trekking routes to ensure the safety and security of trekkers.
For Chitwan National Park, travelers need to obtain a park entry permit, which allows access to wildlife activities such as jungle safaris, birdwatching, and canoeing. At Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage Treks & Expedition, we handle all the required permits, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey.
Food and Accommodation for Nepal Short Trek with City Tour
The Nepal Short Trek with City Tour offers a variety of accommodation options, ranging from luxury hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara to charming guesthouses in Bandipur and teahouses in Dhampus and Sarangkot. In Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan, travelers can choose from budget, mid-range, or luxury hotels with comfortable rooms and modern amenities. Bandipur offers unique heritage lodges that provide a cultural experience with traditional architecture and warm hospitality.
During the trekking portion (Dhampus and Sarangkot), accommodation is in teahouses (local mountain lodges) that offer basic but cozy rooms. The meals available on the trek include dal-bhat (rice and lentils), momos (dumplings), pasta, noodles, and Tibetan bread. In Chitwan, travelers stay in comfortable jungle resorts, enjoying Tharu-style meals with fresh, locally grown ingredients. Overall, the food options are diverse, catering to different tastes and dietary preferences.
Why is the Nepal Short Trek with City Tour Important?
The Nepal Short Trek with City Tour is important because it provides a well-balanced experience of Nepal’s cultural, natural, and adventure highlights in a short duration. This trip is ideal for those who do not have time for long treks but still want to witness Nepal’s beauty. It allows travelers to explore Kathmandu’s historical wonders, Pokhara’s lakes and mountains, Bandipur’s traditional charm, and Chitwan’s wildlife adventures—all in a single itinerary.
Additionally, this tour is beginner-friendly, making it perfect for families, first-time trekkers, and elderly travelers who want to experience Nepal’s trekking culture without long and strenuous hikes. The trek to Dhampus and Sarangkot is short and moderate, yet it offers spectacular sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayas, making it one of the most rewarding short treks in Nepal.
Why Choose Us for Nepal Short Trek with City Tour?
At Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage Treks & Expedition, we specialize in crafting personalized itineraries that offer a seamless travel experience. Our expert guides ensure that you get the most out of your trip by providing deep insights into Nepal’s history, culture, and nature. We take care of all the logistics, including accommodation, transportation, permits, and meals, so you can focus on enjoying your journey.
We prioritize safety, comfort, and customer satisfaction, ensuring that travelers of all ages and experience levels can complete the trek and tour without difficulty. Whether it’s arranging comfortable lodges, providing knowledgeable guides, or offering flexible itineraries, we ensure a smooth and enjoyable adventure.
Why Choose Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage Treks & Expedition?
At Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage Treks & Expedition, we believe that travel should be a memorable and meaningful experience. With years of expertise in trekking and tours, we offer top-notch services at competitive prices. Our team consists of experienced guides, professional porters, and dedicated travel planners who go above and beyond to make your journey special.
We emphasize responsible tourism, eco-friendly travel, and community support, ensuring that our tours benefit local communities while preserving Nepal’s cultural and natural heritage. Our customized itineraries, 24/7 customer support, and transparent pricing make us a trusted choice for travelers. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a culture enthusiast, or a nature lover, we promise a journey filled with unforgettable moments.
Trip Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu and Transfer to Hotel
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, a representative from Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage Treks & Expedition will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, you can relax or explore the bustling streets of Thamel, known for its lively atmosphere, local markets, and great restaurants. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner featuring authentic Nepali cuisine while receiving a briefing about your upcoming journey. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2 : Full-Day Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing
After breakfast, a guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu Valley, home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Start with Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), an ancient Buddhist stupa offering panoramic city views. Next, visit Pashupatinath Temple, Nepal’s most sacred Hindu temple, where you can witness Hindu rituals and cremation ceremonies along the Bagmati River. Continue to Boudhanath Stupa, a massive Buddhist stupa surrounded by monasteries and prayer flags. Lastly, explore Kathmandu Durbar Square, a historic palace complex filled with beautifully crafted temples and courtyards. After a day of cultural exploration, return to your hotel for the evening.
Day 3 : Drive to Bandipur (4–5 hours, 140 km)
After breakfast, leave Kathmandu and drive towards Bandipur, a Newari heritage town situated on a ridge with stunning views of the Himalayas. The 4–5-hour scenic drive takes you through winding mountain roads, lush hills, and terraced farmlands. Upon arrival, check into your hotel or a traditional guesthouse. Spend the afternoon exploring Bandipur’s cobblestone streets, ancient temples, and traditional Newari houses. Visit the Tundikhel viewpoint to witness a panoramic sunset over Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu ranges. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance of this charming town. Overnight in Bandipur.
Day 4 : Drive to Pokhara and Explore Lakeside (2.5–3 hours, 80 km)
Wake up early to witness a beautiful sunrise over the Himalayas before having breakfast. Then, drive to Pokhara, a stunning lakeside city surrounded by the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) mountains. The 2.5 to 3-hour drive takes you through picturesque countryside and scenic landscapes. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax. Later, explore Lakeside Pokhara, where you can take a boat ride on Phewa Lake, visit Tal Barahi Temple, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Stroll along the lakeside promenade and enjoy dinner with a view of the lake and mountains. Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 5 : Drive to Phedi & Trek to Dhampus (1.5–2 hours trek)
After breakfast, drive for 45 minutes to Phedi (1,130m), the starting point of your trek. The trail ascends through forests, terraced farmlands, and small villages. After about 1.5 to 2 hours of trekking, you’ll reach Dhampus (1,650m), a beautiful Gurung village offering breathtaking views of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli. Spend the afternoon exploring the village, interacting with locals, and enjoying the peaceful Himalayan ambiance. Overnight in a cozy teahouse in Dhampus.
Day 6 : Trek from Dhampus to Sarangkot (5–6 hours trek)
Wake up early to witness a stunning sunrise over the Annapurna range from Dhampus. After breakfast, continue your trek towards Sarangkot (1,600m), following a scenic trail through forests and terraced fields. Sarangkot is one of Nepal’s most famous viewpoints, offering panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Machhapuchhre. The trek takes approximately 5–6 hours, and upon arrival, you can relax and enjoy the spectacular sunset over the Himalayas. Overnight in Sarangkot.
Day 7 : Drive to Chitwan (4–5 hours, 150 km) and Tharu Cultural Show
Early in the morning, wake up to witness the sunrise over the Himalayas from Sarangkot, a truly unforgettable sight. After breakfast, drive towards Chitwan National Park, one of the best places in Nepal for wildlife and jungle adventures. The 4–5-hour drive takes you from the hills to the flatlands of the Terai region. Upon arrival, check into your jungle resort and enjoy a welcome drink. In the evening, experience the Tharu Cultural Show, where the indigenous Tharu people perform their traditional stick dances and music. Overnight in Chitwan.
Day 8 : Chitwan Jungle Safari and Wildlife Activities
Wake up early for a full day of jungle activities in Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Start with a canoe ride on the Rapti River, where you can spot crocodiles, gharials, and various bird species. Then, undertake on an exciting jeep safari or elephant safari through the dense jungle, where you have a chance to see one-horned rhinoceroses, Bengal tigers, wild elephants, deer, sloth bears, and over 500 bird species. After lunch, take a guided jungle walk, visit the elephant breeding center, and enjoy some free time at your resort. Overnight in Chitwan.
Day 9 : Drive or Fly Back to Kathmandu
After breakfast, bid farewell to Chitwan and either drive back to Kathmandu (5–6 hours) or take a 25-minute domestic flight. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy your final day in Nepal at your leisure. You can explore Thamel for last-minute shopping, relax at a cafe, or visit a spa for a rejuvenating massage. In the evening, Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage Treks & Expedition will host a farewell dinner, where you can reflect on your incredible journey with your fellow travelers. Overnight in Kathmandu.