5 Days in Nepal - 20 Best Itineraries

Nepal, lying on the southern slopes of the Asian continent is small yet boasts tremendous topographical diversity, opening up to valleys, hills, flat terrains and enveloped by Himalayas. If traveling to Nepal is on your bucket list but time is an issue, then rest assured because you can properly discover the geographically dynamic Himalayan country in as little as 5 days. There are many things you can do in Nepal. You can choose from expensive to budget treks and tours. Traverse around the famous Katmandu and Pokhara Valley, trek in the Annapurna region, fly to the Everest range, take wildlife adventures at Chitwan and Bardiya, and enjoy multisport adventure trips like paragliding and rafting.

Although Nepal proposes many short hikes, treks, and tours, the below listed popular itinerary will have time to explore Nepal’s culture and nature or even get a taste of multisport adventure, with ease. If you are short on time but high on the desire for an exploration trip, then spend your 5 days in Nepal with the following best itinerary.  

Following are the 20 Best Itinerary for your 5 Days in Nepal: 

1. Ghandruk Village Trek

Highlights

• Heritage walks to the religious sites of Swayambhunath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Kathmandu Durbar Square.
• Trek through the villages of Pothana, Dhampus, Landruk, and Tolkha
• Panoramic views of Mt. Machhapuchre and Annapurna Massif on the way
• Enjoy authentic Nepali meal and interact with the Gurung community in Ghandruk

Trip Facts and Overview

Ghandruk Village trek is one of the best short treks in Nepal for trekkers opting to excurse the Himlayan landscape close to Pokhara, in only 5 days. The trek takes you to one of the most iconic villages in Annapurna foothills, Ghandruk, from where views of Annapurna and Machhapuchre are vivid and clear.

Upon arrival to Kathmandu valley, take a heritage walk to some of the iconic religious landmarks. Then fly to Pokhara from where the trek begins to Pothana through the Gurung settlement in Dhampus village. From the small village of Pothana, the trek continues to Gurung Village of Ghandruk via villages of Tolkha and Landruk. Enjoying the Himalayan views, trek heads to Nayapul passing rice fields. Drive to Pokhara then take a flight to Kathmandu.

Outline Itinerary

2. Ghorepani Poon Hill Short Trek

Highlights

• Explore the villages of Ulleri, Ghorepani, Tadapani and Ghandruk
• Interact with the locals in the ethnic Gurung and Magar settlements
• Panoramic vistas of Mt. Annapurna South, Himchuli, and Mt. Machhapuchre from Poonhill viewpoint
• Enjoy the nightlife in the Phewa Lakeside in Pokhara

Trip Facts and Overview

Ghorepani Poon Hill Short Trek is a fast-paced trek in the foothills of the Annapurna region, near Pokhara, that takes you to Poon Hill station straddled amidst the clouds. 

The short trek begins with a scenic flight to Pokhara then drives off to Nayapul for trekking towards Ulleri village. From there on trek progresses to Ghorepani village and then a short hike reaches Poon Hill Station with amazing scenery of Annapurna Massif. Head on to Tadapani then to the Gurung village of Ghandruk and drive to Pokhara. The flight takes you to Kathmandu for final departure.

Outline Itinerary

3. Annapurna Panorama Village Trek

Highlights

• Visit the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, and Kathmandu Durbar Square in Kathmandu
• Interact with the Brahmin, Gurung, and Chhetri community living in the villages of Astam, Dhampus, and Majgaon respectively
• Enjoy sunrise views from Dhampus viewpoint
• Views of Annapurna, Machhapuchre, and Dhaulagiri peaks from the peripheral hills of the Annapurna region

Trip Facts and Overview

The best way to experience authentic Nepal in 5 days is by traversing to the traditional villages in the Annapurna foothills. Annapurna Panorama Trek allows you to interact with the locals in the ethnic villages straddled in hills, offering views of Annapurna Massif.

Stroll around the cultural heritage sites in Kathmandu city upon arrival in Nepal. A scenic flight takes you to Pokhara from where a short drive heads to the Brahmin settlements in Astam village. From there the trek commences to Dhampus village inhabited by the Gurung community. From there, the trek progresses to Majgaon village where you will get to interact with the Chhetri and Gurung locals. The next day’s trek takes you to Kande, then drives back to Pokhara for an evening adventure along the Phewa Lakeside. A scenic flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu bids farewell to the short 5 days escapade in Nepal.

Outline Itinerary

4. Kathmandu Valley Authentic Trail Trek

Highlights

• Visit the historical and architectural landmarks of Patan, Bhaktapur, and Kathmandu Durbar Square in the Kathmandu Valley
• Trek to the Ashapuri Mahadev Temple and organic farms
• Interact with the ethnic Newari inhabitants in Panauti village
• Visit the silent and isolated Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery in Namo Buddha hilltop
• Panoramic views of Ganesh Himal, Langtang, Phuribichyachu, Gauri Shanker peaks from Dhulikhel

Trip Facts and Overview

The Kathmandu Valley Authentic Trail trek explores the ancient trails and villages in the rim of Kathmandu Valley. It is regarded as one of the best 5-day treks in Nepal to immerse into the tradition and culture of the local communities living in small farming villages in Kathmandu.

Take a heritage walk to courtyards of Patan and Kathmandu Durbar Square with age-old temples, statues, and shrines. Trek begins with a visit to the Ashapuri Mahadev temple then traverses to Panauti village inhabited by the Newari community.

From there trek to the serene Namo Buddha stupa on a hilltop. Hike down to Dhulikhel enjoying views of high mountains on the horizon. Drive takes you to Bhaktapur Durbar Square sightseeing then back to Kathmandu.

Outline Itinerary

5. Kathmandu And Pokhara Sunrise View Tour

Highlights

• Enjoy the views of Mt. Manaslu, Ganesh Himal Range, Langtang, Jugal, and Rolwaling Range from Nagarkot view tower with sunrise
• Scenic flight to Pokhara with bird’s eye view of hills, rivers, lakes, and farmlands
• Stunning view of Himalayas and sunrise from Sarangkot viewpoint
• Visit World Heritage Sites of Swayambhunath stupa and Kathmandu Durbar Square

Trip Facts and Overview

Kathmandu and Pokhara Sunrise View Tour takes you to two of the most popular destinations in Nepal for stunning sunrise views early in the morning. In merely 5 days you will experience sunrise views in Nagarkot of Central region to Sarangkot in the West of Nepal.

The itinerary takes you on a drive to Nagarkot hill station to enjoy the sunrise views early in the morning with a hike to the view tower. Thereon, take a scenic flight to Pokhara city and drive off to Sarangkot Hill Station for amazing Sunrise and Himalayan vistas. The flight takes you back to Kathmandu city to conclude with a cultural tour around World Heritage Sites.

Outline Itinerary

6. Kathmandu And Pokhara Sightseeing Tour With Paragliding In Sarangkot

Highlights

• Visit the historic Buddhist pilgrim site of Swayambhunath
• Stroll around the courtyards of the architecturally significant Kathmandu and Bhaktapur Durbar Squares
• Sightseeing hike to most recognized Buddhist peace monument, World Peace Pagoda in Pokhara
• Enjoy the thrilling adventure of Paragliding from the Sarangkot viewpoint
• Up-close views of Mt. Machhapuchre, Annapurna Massif, Manaslu and Mt. Dhaulagiri from Pokhara

 Trip Facts and Overview

A combination of adventure and serenity, the Kathmandu and Pokhara Sightseeing tour with Paragliding in Sarangkot is one of the well-noted 5 days itinerary in Nepal. Experience the heritage of Nepal through sightseeing visits in Kathmandu and enjoy nature through paragliding adventure in Pokhara.

The itinerary begins with a visit to the iconic Buddhist shrine of Swayambhunath in Kathmandu city. Enjoy the rich heritage and history of Nepal’s unification by visiting the Kathmandu and Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Take a scenic flight to the city of lakes, Pokhara, on the next day and stroll around the Phewa lakeside. The highlight of the tour is perhaps visiting the World Peace Pagoda and taking a thrilling Paragliding flight in the blue sky from the Sarangkot Hill's viewpoint. Tour ends with a scenic flight back to Kathmandu.

Outline Itinerary

7. Kathmandu To Pokhara Culture Tour

Highlights

• Visit the cultural heritage sites of Kathmandu and Bhaktapur Durbar Square in Kathmandu Valley
• Stroll around Bandipur village streets with ethnic Newari houses and shrines
• Interact with the locals and enjoy the authentic Newari meal in Bandipur
• Sightseeing tour to Tal Barahi temple while boating in Phewa Lake and visit Gupteshwor and Mahendra Caves

Trip Facts and Overview

If you have only 5 days in Nepal and wish to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Nepal, then it is best to take the short Kathmandu to Pokhara Culture tour.

You will stroll around the culturally and historically significant temples, shrines, statues, and museums in Kathmandu Durbar Square then drive off to Bandipur. Wander around the Newari settlement in Bandipur then drive to Pokhara. Visit some religious sites in Pokhara city then take a flight on the next day to Kathmandu. Drive to Bhaktapur to visit the famous Durbar Square with an overnight stay and authentic Newari dinner. End the trip by driving back to Kathmandu then fly homewards. 

Outline Itinerary

8. Nagarkot Nature Trail And Kathmandu Cultural Tour

Highlights

• Full day tour to the pilgrimage site of Swayambhunath Stupa, Pashupatinath temple, and archaeological Patan Durbar Square
• Hike to Nagarkot through the natural trail passing villages, dense forests, and rolling hills
• Vistas of Mt. Everest, Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Jugal, Langtang, Gauri Shankar peaks from Nagarkot view tower.

Trip Facts and Overview

Regarded as one of the best ways to spend your 5 days in Nepal, the Nagarkot Nature Trail and Kathmandu Cultural Tour is a short tour and hike and a culmination of art, craft, culture, religion, sunrise, and mountain views.

The trip begins with a guided tour of the cultural heritage sites of Kathmandu valley. Eventually, a drive to Sankhu village commences the hike through the nature trail to Nagarkot. You are graced with Sunrise and mountain views from Nagarkot view tower in the morning after the mist clears. From there you will drive back to Kathmandu.

Outline Itinerary

9. Sundarijal Chisapani Nagarkot Trek

Highlights

• Walk around Rhododendron adorned forest in spring season through Shivapuri National Park
• Stunning vistas of five of fourteen highest mountains in the world, including Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Makalu, and Manaslu
• Captivating sunrise views from Nagarkot View Tower and Chisapani
• Visit the architecturally mesmerizing Bhaktapur Durbar Square to see the five-storied temple-Nyatapole, 55 window Palace, and Golden Gate.

Trip Facts and Overview

Sundarijal Chisapani Nagarkot Trek is a short nature trail trek on the outskirts of Kathmandu Valley. It is an ideal 5 days-vacation in Kathmandu that combines the best of nature, Himalayan views, captivating sunrise, and typical local life.

The trip starts with a short drive to Sundarijal then begins with a trek to Chisapani. Through the rhododendron-clad forest move ahead towards the serene Nagarkot hills. Enjoy the amazing sunrise from Nagarkot view tower then drive off to Kathmandu for final departure.

Outline Itinerary

10. Luxury Kathmandu Valley Tour With Everest Mountain Flight

Highlights

• Drive to the cultural heritage sites of Swayambhunath and Bouddhanath stupas, Pashupatinath temple in Kathmandu city
• Stroll around the courtyards of architecturally and historically significant Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan Durbar squares in the valley  
• Take a mountain flight to the Everest region with panoramic views of Mt. Everest, Shisha Pangma, Cho-Oyu, Nuptse, and Lhotse peaks.

Trip Facts and Overview

If you want to explore the hills, valleys, and get up-close views mountains of Nepal all in a short period and with utmost luxury then the Luxury Kathmandu Valley tour with Everest Mountain Flight is for you. Experience the luxury of a tour in Kathmandu and mountain flight in Khumbu region, all in one package.

The tour is set in the beautiful Kathmandu Valley as it takes you on a drive to various heritage sites. A luxurious mountain flight explores some of the highest mountains in the world situated in the Khumbu region of Nepal. After the amazing flight, head back to Kathmandu for an authentic Nepali meal and continue your culture tour on the next day.

Outline Itinerary

11. Namche Bazaar Trek With Helicopter Tour To Everest Base Camp

Highlights

• Visit the architectural landmark of Kathmandu Durbar Square
• Scenic Flight to and from Lukla, one of the most challenging airports in the world
• Interact with the Sherpa community to understand their culture and traditions
• Luxurious and comfortable helicopter flight to the lap of Mt. Everest at Everest Base Camp
• Panoramic views of Mt. Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kantega, Mt. Lhotse, and Mt. Nuptse from Everest Base Camp.

Trip Facts and Overview

Experience the beauty of the Everest region by taking the Namche Bazaar Trek with Helicopter tour to Everest Base Camp. In merely 5 days the trek and flight take you from an altitude of 1,400m/4,593ft at Kathmandu to the maximum altitude of 5364m/17,594ft at Everest Base Camp and back.

The trip begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla then proceeds with a trek to Phakding. You get deeper into the Khumbu region by trekking to Namche Bazaar, its hub and trading center. Interact with the Sherpa community then take a luxurious and comfortable helicopter flight to Everest Base Camp to enjoy views of Mt. Everest and adjoining peaks. Return to Kathmandu on the helicopter flight to conclude the tour.

Outline Itinerary

12. Kathmandu And Annapurna Getaway Tour To Astam Village

Highlights

• Cultural tour to Swayambhunath and Kathmandu Durbar Square in Kathmandu city
• Interact with the Bhramin communities inhabiting the Astam village on the foothills of Annapurna
• Stunning 360 degrees view of the Mardi valley, Annapurna I, Manaslu, and Dhaulagiri peaks.
• Sightseeing tour to Phewa Lakeside, Davis Falls, Gupteshwor, and Mahendra Caves in Pokhara

Trip Facts and Overview

Annapurna Getaway tour to Astam village is a short tour that takes you from the Kathmandu valley to the traditional mountain village of Astam in the foothills of the Annapurna region. This tour is an apt exploration of the Annapurna region, Pokhara, and Kathmandu valley of Nepal in only 5 days.

The amazing tour begins from Kathmandu with a sightseeing visit to some of the cultural sites in the city. Then a scenic flight to the city of lakes, Pokhara commences the drive to Astam. The drive to Astam offers views of some of the 8 highest mountains over 8000m in Nepal like Annapurna I, Manaslu, and Dhaulagiri. From the traditional village of Astam, the drive will continue to Pokhara to indulge in some sightseeing around Phewa Lake and other tourist destinations. The trip ends with a scenic flight back to Kathmandu.

Outline Itinerary

13. Australian Camp Trek With Paragliding Adventure From Sarangkot Hills

Highlights

• Scenic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara with up-close views of Mt. Machhapuchre
• Walk around lush forest and green hills to the hilltop of Australian Camp with views of Annapurna Massif
• Pass through the traditional Nepali villages of Kande and Dhampus in the Annapurna trekking trail
• Enjoy Himalayan scenery and bird’s eye view of the Pokhara city with a Paragliding flight from Sarangkot Hills.

Trip Facts and Overview

If you wish to enjoy an up-close view of the Annapurna Massif, explore the ethnic villages in Nepal, and indulge in adventure sports, then Australian Camp Trek with Paragliding Adventure at Sarangkot Hill in the Annapurna region is for you.

The amazing trip begins with a flight to the beautiful city of Pokhara from Kathmandu. Leaving behind the hustle and bustle of city life, trek leads to Australian Camp passing forests, meadows, and opening up to scenic views of the Himalayas.

After taking in the mesmerizing views head to Dhampus village and finally Phedi from where you will take a drive to Pokhara. After enjoying the evening life near Phewa Lakeside, take a drive to Sarangkot Hills early in the morning the next day. Along with the sunrise views, enjoy a thrilling paragliding flight. Feel like a bird in the sky with views of mountains on the horizon. The trip ends with a flight back to Kathmandu city on the following day.

Outline Itinerary

14. Dhampus Naudanda Sarangkot Himalayan View Tour

Highlights

• Heritage walks in Kathmandu Durbar Square and Swayambhunath Stupa
• Enjoy Himalayan scenery and sunset views from Gurung village of Dhampus
• Views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Pokhara valley from Naudanda village viewpoint
• Stunning sunrise view from Sarangkot hill station

Trip Facts and Overview

Dhampus Naudanda Sarangkot Tour itinerary is an ideal luxury short tour option if you wish to visit the Annapurna balcony with majestic Himalayan views from traditional villages in a short time.

After a cultural sightseeing tour in Kathmandu fly to Pokhara. From there, take a comfortable ride to Dhampus village. The trip’s only trekking day takes you on the nature trail from Dhampus to Naudanda village and after a brief stop head to Sarangkot. Early in the morning, enjoy views of the sunrise amidst Himalayan scenery then drive off to Pokhara. The trip ends with a flight back to Kathmandu city.

Outline Itinerary

15. Chitwan National Park Wildlife Excursion Tour

Highlights

• Heritage walks to Swayambhunath stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Kathmandu Durbar Square
• Get a chance to spot the rare one-horned Rhino, Leopard, Sloth bear, and Royal Bengal Tiger on a jeep safari in Chitwan National Park
• Enjoy bird-watching while taking a boat ride across the river to Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge

Trip Facts and overview

Chitwan National Park Wildlife Excursion Tour is the ideal short tour for wildlife adventurists and photographers who wish to enjoy the flora and fauna in the first national park of Nepal.

Enjoy the first day of your arrival by visiting the heritage sites in Kathmandu valley. Tour luxuriously flies off to Chitwan and enjoy a lovely evening with Tharu folk performances. Following day’s Jungle Safari in the World Heritage Site of Chitwan National Park offers a chance to spot rare mammals and birds.

You will continue with a boat ride across the river for an overnight stay at the Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge. A bird-watching paradise, the park is home to more than 540 species of birds. After enjoying your wildlife excursion take a flight back to Kathmandu.

Outline Itinerary

16. Bardiya National Park Wildlife Safari Tour

Highlights

• Explore the flora and fauna of Bardiya National Park with a chance to spot rare Royal Bengal Tiger
• Drive through the second-longest asymmetric cable bridge of Chisapani
• Float across the Karnali river for views of aquatic life and luckily, the rare freshwater Dolphins
• Visit the Elephant and Gariyal (World’s critically endangered crocodile) breeding center in Bardiya

Trip Facts and overview

Bardiya National Park Wildlife Safari Tour is different than the other wildlife adventures as it takes you to remote western Nepal which is largely untouched. The experience is surreal and at times you have acres of flora and fauna all to yourself, not overrun by crowds like in Chitwan National Park.

Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj then take a drive to Bardiya National Park to start the wildlife safari tour. Traverse through the jungle to catch a glimpse of the elusive Bengal Tiger. On the second day, take a safari on an Elephant’s back then drive to Chisapani to embark on the Karnali River Safari by boat. Finally, drive back to Nepalgunj then take a flight back to Kathmandu.

If you are a wildlife enthusiast who wants to have an off-beaten path experience in 5 days interval then this trek is ideal for you.

Outline Itinerary

17. Balthali Village Trek With Dhulikhel Sunset Views

Highlights

• Enjoy the views of the Kathmandu valley and sunset from Dhulikhel
• Stunning views of mountains like Manaslu, Langtang, and Gauri Shankar in Namo Buddha
• Visit the serene Tashi Yangtse Monastery in Namo Buddha
• Traverse through the green hills of Balthali Village with views of locals working in farmlands
• Interact with the locals in the Newari settlement of Panauti

Trip Facts Overview

Balthali Village Trek with Dhulikhel Sunset Views is one of the most iconic short trekking trails around Kathmandu Valley fringes. In just 5 days you are offered views of the sunset, mountains, hills, and the ethnic Newari cultural setting.

The trip begins from Kathmandu into the corner of the valley at Dhulikhel where you can enjoy the sunset views. From there trek takes you to the serene and peaceful Namo Buddha stupa. Trek continues through fields and orchards into the silent and unspoiled village of Balthali. Then head to the Newari settlement of Panauti to end the amazing trip with a drive to Kathmandu.

Outline Itinerary

18. Best Of Pokhara Tour With Trishuli River Rafting

Highlights

• Visit the World Heritage sites of Swayambhunath and Kathmandu Durbar Square
• Experience thrilling Trishuli river rafting on the way to Pokhara
• Observe views of Mt. Machhapuchre, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri from Pumdikot Hill and World Peace Pagoda
• Enjoy a boat ride in the famous Phewa Lake in Pokhara

Trip Facts Overview

Best of Pokhara Tour with Trishuli River rafting is an immersion into the city of Lakes; Pokhara, with a short yet thrilling adventure sport on the way. It is best for tourists seeking to explore Pokhara and the surrounding scenery.

The 5 days itinerary starts with a sightseeing visit to cultural heritage sites in Kathmandu valley. From there on, you are driven to the Trishuli River basin to enjoy the thrilling rapids while rafting. Drive takes you to Pokhara city from there. Explore the city in the afternoon by visiting caves, falls, museums. The trip progresses on a drive to Pumdikot Hill. After enjoying breakfast trek starts to serene World Peace Pagoda. From there drive back to the city to enjoy an afternoon boat ride in Phewa Lake.

Outline Itinerary

19. River Rafting Paragliding And Trekking Nepal Adventure Tour

Highlights

• Exhilarating rafting experience in the rapids of Trishuli River en route Pokhara
• Sunrise views and views of peaks like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu from Sarangkot Hills
• Bird’s eye view of the Phewa lake, rivers, hills, and Pokhara city from Paragliding flight
• The adventure trek to the Australian Camp passing nature trail

Trip Facts Overview

If you are a nature lover and an adventurist then the River Rafting Paragliding and Trekking Nepal Adventure Tour from Kathmandu to Pokhara valley is ideal for you.

The tour takes you to the western region of Nepal with a drive to Pokhara. Along the way, you will enjoy your first adventure sport, Rafting in the Trishuli River. Upon reaching Pokhara, the next day’s adventure takes you to the serene Sarangkot Hills early in the morning. Along with the sunrise views, you will be mesmerized by the thrilling Paragliding flight.

From there, the fast-paced tour drives to Kande for a trek to the Australian Camp through forest and meadows. Observing the views of high mountains, the following day’s trek will lead to Phedi then drive to Pokhara for an excursion in Phewa Lake. The trip ends on the 5th day with a flight back to Kathmandu city.

Outline Itinerary

20. Kali Gandaki River Rafting Adventure Tour

Highlights

• Cultural sightseeing in the Kathmandu Durbar Square and Swayambhunath Stupa
• Enjoy adrenaline pumping class III and IV rapids in the Kali Gandaki river from three days
• Camping adventure in the riverbank of Kali Gandaki River

Trip Facts and Overview

If you have 5 days in Nepal and wish to engage in some amazing river adventure then the Kali Gandaki River Rafting Adventure Tour, near Pokhara, is designed just for you.

The trip begins with a sightseeing tour in the cultural sites of Kathmandu then flies to Pokhara on the next day. Starting with a drive to Kali Gandaki river bank, the rafts are unloaded and set up. Within a few minutes experience two of the biggest rapids on the first day. The second rafting day sets off with class III rapids and then stargazing from the campsite in the night. Final rafting day in the river earns the class IV rapids then drive off to Pokhara and flight to Kathmandu.

Best in October, November, and December, this adventure sports tour is a once in a lifetime experience in one of the most challenging rafting rivers in Nepal.  

Outline Itinerary

Conclusion

Above mentioned treks and tours are best for tourists who have a limited 5 days in Nepal for the excursion. However, note that these 5 days tour and trek itineraries are not ridged, they can be customized as per your need. If you seek a tailor-made Nepal trip plan or have any confusion then feel free to contact us for guidance and trip management from our professionals.