Essential Nepal Adventure - 13 days

Essential Nepal Adventure - 13 days

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13 Days From

$1585

$1268

Essential Nepal Adventure - 13 days

13 Days Starting and ending in Kathmandu, Nepal

Visiting: Kathmandu, Nagarkot, Bhaktapur, Chitwan National Park, Lumbini, Pokhara, Poon Hill, Bandipur

Tour operator:

On The Go Tours

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

2 - 20

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

18-

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural, Wildlife Tours

From: $1585 $1268 Operator discount: -$317 -20%

NB: Prices correct on 22-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on the "Essential Nepal Adventure - 13 days" tour and immerse yourself in the rich culture and stunning landscapes of Nepal. Begin your journey in Kathmandu, exploring iconic temples and vibrant local life. Marvel at the temples of Lalitpur, hike to scenic viewpoints in Nagarkot, and stroll through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bhaktapur. Experience the wildlife of Chitwan National Park with a jeep safari and canoe ride, and find tranquility in the birthplace of Buddha at Lumbini. Enjoy a momo-making class in Pokhara, and choose between a 3-day Poon Hill trek in the Himalayas or a rejuvenating yoga retreat. Conclude your adventure with a thrilling white-water rafting experience before returning to Kathmandu. This tour offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration, wildlife encounters, and breathtaking treks, all guided by a local adventure tour leader.

Highlights

  • Kathmandu - Take in the highlights of Nepal's capital on a full day tour, including Swayambhunath Stupa Temple, Boudhanath and Pashupatinath Temple

  • Lalitpur - Marvel at the Golden Temple and Bangla Mukhi Temple and meet a living goddess

  • Nagarkot - Partake in a short hike and watch the sunset from a local viewpoint

  • Pharphing - Explore the monastery and cave amongst the local monks where Great Master Padmasambhava meditated

  • Bhaktapur - Stroll through this UNESCO World Heritage Site on a guided walking tour

  • Chitwan National Park - Go on a jeep safari and canoe ride in Chitwan, home to the one horned rhino and the elusive Bengal tiger

  • Lumbini - Meditate in the Maya Devi Temple gardens, birthplace of Buddha

  • Go hiking in the Himalayas on a scenic 3-day Poon Hill Trek in the stunning Annapurna region, with spectacular mountain vistas

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Kathmandu

Location: Kathmandu

Accommodation Name: hostel

After arriving in the city of Kathmandu, make your own way to the hostel where you will meet your fellow travellers and tour leader for a welcome meeting on the rooftop at 6pm. Then consider heading to Durbar Square with the group to get a taste of delicious Nepalese food from one of the local restaurant before heading to the Thamal District to check some live music.

Day 2: Kathmandu

Location: Kathmandu

Accommodation Name: hostel

This morning there's an optional Everest sightseeing flight for early risers. Marvel at the sunrise over Everest, a truly stunning sight! We then re-group later in the morning to take in some of the highlights of Kathmandu, including the Swayambhunath Stupa Temple, Boudhanath and Pashupatinath Temple.

Day 3: Nagarkot

Location: Nagarkot

Accommodation Name: hotel

Kathmandu - Lalitpur - Nagarkot. Today, we depart from Kathmandu and head towards Nagarkot. Enroute, we make a stop at Lalitpur with an abundance of temples to visit -such as the Golden Temple and the Bangla Mukhi Temple. We also have the pleasure to meet a living goddess who lives in the area. We then resume the journey, arriving Nagarkot in time for lunch, with options aplenty. The rest of the afternoon and evening is for leisure. However, there's an optional 30-minute hike with the guide and group to a picturesque viewpoint to witness a magnificent sunset.

Day 4: Bhaktapur

Location: Bhaktapur

Accommodation Name: hotel

Nagrkot - Bhaktapur - Pharphing - Kathmandu. It's now back to Kathmandu, with a couple of stops enroute. In the morning we visit Bhaktapur, partaking in a morning walking tour of this city (UNESCO World Heritage Site). We continue onwards to Pharping, which houses a fantastic monastery for us to explore. In this monastery, we're amongst the local monks. Make sure to explore the cave which was home to the meditations of Great Master Padmanabhanagar. We then arrive back in Kathmandu, with a free evening for exploration or relaxation.

Day 5: Chitwan National Park

Location: Chitwan National Park

Accommodation Name: hotel

Kathmandu - Chitwan. Rise and shine! Today's early start begins our adventure to Chitwan. We stop for breakfast on the way, and reach Chitwan around midday with time for lunch. Once re-fuelled, we embark on a jeep safari! Spectate the wonderful abundance of wildlife this region offers - such as deers, monkeys, rhinos, sloth's, tigers, leopards and more. We then cruise along a river in a canoe, with many more sights to behold. After our canoe ride, we enjoy a cup of coffee with the sunset in the background. We finish the evening with a Tharu Cultural Show which will showcase traditional Nepalese songs and dances.

Day 6: Lumbini

Location: Lumbini

Accommodation Name: hotel

Chitwan - Lumbini. We travel onwards to Lumbini today, arriving in the early afternoon, where there's time to get lunch. We then enjoy a guided tour of the marvelous temples this area has to offer. We then spend the rest of the day exploring the Maya Devi Temple, which is the birthplace of Buddha! There's the opportunity to participate in meditation in the Ashok section of the temple grounds. We also visit a variety of other temples, built by Buddhists communities from various countries.

Day 7: Pokhara

Location: Pokhara

Accommodation Name: hotel

Lumbini - Pokhara. Today we travel to one of the most iconic cities in Nepal - Pokhara! Take some time in the afternoon to acclimatise before we enjoy a momo making class. Learn the traditional methods of Nepalese cooking, with chance to taste these iconic dumplings.

Day 8: Pokhara

Location: Pokhara

Accommodation Name: hotel

Today if free for you to explore Pokhara, with many laid back options such as local sightseeing, visiting the Mountain Museum, or relaxing by the lakeside. However, for tour-goers with action in mind, there are several optional activities which can be undertaken, such as - The Kushma bungee jump (second highest in the world!) or Paragliding.





We then gather mid-afternoon for a boat ride on beautiful Lake Phewa. This evening you can opt to join the group for a movie night at the nearby Movie Garden.

Day 9: Poon Hill Trek Or Yoga In Pokhara

Location: Pokhara

Accommodation Name: teahouse

Meals Included: Dinner

Pokhara - Ghorepani. The next three days offers one of the most amazing hikes in the Poon Hill region of the Himalayas. From Pokhara we head into the Himalayas embark into the Himalayas and start our hike with a largely uphill 2-3 hour trek through the jungle in Ghorepani village. Arriving in the evening, we stay in a local guesthouse for dinner and amazing sunset views.





Please Note: If you do not wish to partake in the 3 day Poon Hill Trek on days 9 - 11, you can opt to stay in Pokhara for a 3-day yoga retreat. Note - there is a surcharge for the yoga experience. If you choose to stay for the yoga experience, you can expect three days of restorative yoga practices, dance classes, tea ceremonies, candlelight meditations, and nature walks – interspersed with some leisure time for you to spend how you see fit.



Day 10: Poon Hill & Tadapani

Location: Poon Hill

Accommodation Name: teahouse

Meals Included: Dinner

Ghoerpani - Tadapani. On the Poon Hill trek wake up early and take an optional 1-hour hike to Poon Hill to watch an incredible sunrise with stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. We then re-group and set off for our 6 hour hike, across varied terrain, mostly up hill, with a break for lunch. We arrive in Tadapani village for group dinner and more breath-taking views.

Day 11: Jungle Trek

Location: Pokhara

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Tadapani - Pokhara. On the final day of our trek enjoy breakfast before a 3 hour hike through jungles and local villages. On this mostly flat path we eventually arrive at our end point, with a private transfer back to Pokhara. Arriving in the mid-afternoon we have free time for leisure. It might be a good idea to enjoy a foot massage after all that walking!

Day 12: Bandipur

Location: Bandipur

Accommodation Name: hotel

Pokhara - Bandipur. There's an early transfer today to Bandipur, the location of our final overnight stay. Arriving in the afternoon, partake in a walk through this preserved town with an abundance of charm. The evening is at leisure, and it is recommended that the group look to head into town for one final meal together.

Day 13: Kathmandu

Location: Kathmandu

Bandipur - Kathmandu. Today is our final day on the tour, however we have time to embark on one last thrilling activity - white water rafting! We'll spend a couple of hours enjoying the waters before we transfer back to Kathmandu, where our Nepal adventure tour comes to an end at approximately 6pm.

What's Included

  • 2 nights hostel in Kathmandu in 2024 (simple hotel in Kathmandu 2025 & 2026), 8 nights simple hotels and guesthouses, 2 nights in teahouses on the Poon Hill Trek (shared dorm style rooms)

  • All relevant transportation

  • Escorted by a local English/bilingual adventure tour leader

  • Kathmandu full day tour including Swayambhunath Stupa Temple, Boudhanath & Pashupatinath Temple

  • Lalitpur temple tour

  • Walking tour of Bhaktapur (Bhaktapur) and monastery visit

  • Chitwan jeep safari experience, canoe river trip and Tharu Cultural Show

  • Lumbini temples tour and Maya Devi Temple

  • Pokhara Momo making class and boating on Phewa Taal lake

  • 3-day Poon Hill trek

show more

What's Not Included

  • International Flights and Visa

    International flights and visa are not included

  • Tipping

    Tipping is an entirely personal gesture and is not included

  • Optional Activities

    Any optional activities are not included

Mode of Transport

All relevant transportation is included, ensuring a seamless journey through the highlights of Nepal, from city tours to scenic treks and safaris.

Accommodation

Enjoy 2 nights in a hostel in Kathmandu, 8 nights in simple hotels and guesthouses, and 2 nights in teahouses on the Poon Hill Trek with shared dorm-style rooms.

Age Policy

Please note these are backpacker type tours, please bear this in mind when quoting passengers. There is some flexibility with the maximum age on this tour. Min age: 18 years old for group tours.Avg age: 28 years old. GH requires our OTG Tour Suitability Form to be completed by all passengers aged 55 plus. 

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes 2 nights in a hostel in Kathmandu, 8 nights in simple hotels and guesthouses, and 2 nights in teahouses on the Poon Hill Trek with shared dorm-style rooms.

  • What activities are included in Chitwan National Park?

    In Chitwan National Park, you will go on a jeep safari to see wildlife such as deer, monkeys, rhinos, sloths, tigers, and leopards. You will also enjoy a canoe ride along the river and a Tharu Cultural Show featuring traditional Nepalese songs and dances.

  • Is there an option for a yoga retreat instead of the Poon Hill Trek?

    Yes, if you do not wish to partake in the 3-day Poon Hill Trek, you can opt to stay in Pokhara for a 3-day yoga retreat. This includes restorative yoga practices, dance classes, tea ceremonies, candlelight meditations, and nature walks. Note that there is a surcharge for the yoga experience.

  • What kind of transportation is included in the tour?

    All relevant transportation is included, ensuring a seamless journey through the highlights of Nepal, from city tours to scenic treks and safaris.

  • Are international flights and visas included in the tour package?

    No, international flights and visas are not included in the tour package.

  • What is the age policy for this tour?

    The minimum age for group tours is 18 years old, with an average age of 28 years old. There is some flexibility with the maximum age, but passengers aged 55 and above are required to complete the OTG Tour Suitability Form.

  • What can I expect on the first day of the tour?

    On the first day, you will arrive in Kathmandu and make your own way to the hostel. You will meet your fellow travelers and tour leader for a welcome meeting on the rooftop at 6pm. Afterwards, you can head to Durbar Square with the group to enjoy delicious Nepalese food and check out live music in the Thamal District.

  • What activities are available in Pokhara?

    In Pokhara, you can participate in a momo making class, enjoy a boat ride on Lake Phewa, and explore local sights. Optional activities include the Kushma bungee jump and paragliding. You can also opt for a movie night at the nearby Movie Garden.

  • What is the itinerary for the Poon Hill Trek?

    The Poon Hill Trek spans three days. On the first day, you will trek through the jungle to Ghorepani village. On the second day, you can take an optional hike to Poon Hill for sunrise views, followed by a 6-hour hike to Tadapani village. On the final day, you will hike through jungles and local villages before returning to Pokhara.

  • What is the final activity of the tour?

    The final activity of the tour is white water rafting. After enjoying a couple of hours on the waters, you will transfer back to Kathmandu, where the tour concludes at approximately 6pm.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1998

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

Reviews of this operator

Nicola Hodgkinson (Google Reviewer)  

Recently returned from Greece, a...

07-May-2024

Recently returned from Greece, a 5 day tour with OTG. Unfortunately, I had a negative experience on day 2 where I needed local support to get me out of a tricky situation. Thank you to Alexandra Z from Hetco Tours in Athens for helping me continue on with the trip, to the Hotel Zafolia staffing team and to Danielle and team here in the UK for supporting me with the aftermath. Your kindness will not be forgotten and I will pay it forward. I've now booked 3 trips with yourselves and will continue to go back. Thank you all. Honestly, I am SO grateful. Blessings to you all. Nicola

Calvin  

Wonderful experience

05-Jan-2023

Jamal is our tour guide. Right from the start, he created a group chat in whatsapp and if any issues to make sure we contact him. He was on the ball with every issue thrown at him. Luggage being left behind, stragglers wondered off in a different path, hotel room etc. He explains the various site along our route to give us a better understanding of the local cultures. We had a great time, thanks to Jamal.

Trustpilot
Norma Sullivan  

Land of the Northern Lights 5 day tour of Iceland

10-Sep-2021

The Land of Northern Lights tour was a triumph! My tour of Southern Iceland was absolutely wonderful. The venues chosen, the timing allotted at each venue and the variety of things to experience was nearly perfect. Our guide, "Thor", was smart, amusing, full of history and anecdotal stories as well as being incredibly hospitable and helpful. This small group experience was my first, but not my last thanks to On the Go.

Trawls (Google Reviewer)  

On The Go Tours Sri...

05-Feb-2024

On The Go Tours Sri Lanka was an incredible experience that was made even better by our tour guide Akthar. He was incredibly knowledgeable about his country and he loved sharing it with us. The tour covers a wide range of activities so you can truly experience what Sri Lanka is all about. The beautiful 4-5 star hotels at the end of every day was an absolute bonus. Thanks for a great trip OTGT I’m sure this won’t be my last

Xtreme Floor Care (Google Reviewer)  

Traveled through Egypt with On...

30-Nov-2023

Traveled through Egypt with On the Go Tours, professional service, very informative and helpful tour guides. The choice of hotels was excellent... Definitely recommend this company

Gavin Harrigan  

King Tutankhamun 10 day tour of Egypt

16-Sep-2021

I have just returned from my tour with On The Go and it was an amazing trip! From arriving at the airport and meeting the OTG representative, everything was well organised and hassle free.  Our tour guide was Amir. He is awesome!! From the beginning he was so friendly and enthusiastic about showing us around Egypt, giving us loads of information at each place and time to explore ourselves. Learnt so much from him about this fascinating place, and he was always happy to answer more questions.   The trip itself was amazing. There's lots of travelling on this trip, but it's really not too bad, and the sights you see when you get to where you are going are worth it. I'm not a big fan of boats, but the Felluca ride across the Nile was pretty fun too.  On the first day I also did the optional tour of Cairo with Ahmed Helal - another excellent guide from OTG. It's worth doing this add on as you don't spend much time in Cairo, and you go to three very different places.  I'm so glad that I decided to do this trip. It was just ace.  If you're thinking about it too, you should probably just book it. And hopefully you get Amir as your guide.

Joyce Heitler (Google Reviewer)  

I would give this tour...

09-May-2024

I would give this tour group no stars if possible. The tour was not guaranteed but they did not inform me when I booked and they did not have enough people. Way after I booked they said I needed a doctors letter because I was over 70. Also way after booking I was informed I needed travel insurance. They knew my age when I booked. They would not refund my tour even though it was 4 months away.

Simla Patel (Google Reviewer)  

This company doesn’t deserve even...

26-Nov-2024

This company doesn’t deserve even 1 star. I would not recommend this company. There are hidden fees which means the cost of the holiday ends up being very expensive. We recently came back from our trip to China where it is not customary to tip in restaurants & hotel staff. Yet we had to make a payment upfront in cash to to the guide for more than £100. The hotel service was appalling. Just think £100 from each person. The trip was suppose to be a Tour yet we had to pay for all entrance fees. We complained about the poor condition of the hotels but no one responded to our emails to date. The after sales service is non existent. Do not use this company. Far far too expensive for what you get. Not competitive at all. They messed up our booking; repeatedly asked for the same information. We spent so much time correcting their errors. Very difficult to get hold of anyone because they all work in S Africa or New Zealand. Absolute nightmare

Sarah Paterson (Google Reviewer)  

Terrible tour of India. For...

27-Dec-2023

Terrible tour of India. For some reason On the Go hadn't realised that my room mate had booked her own room for the first night of tour. So the hotel in Delhi had tried to put me in her room after midnight, by wheeling in an extra bed. She went Crazy!! I then had to sit in hotel reception for hours. While the tour guide said he couldn't find me a room. Throughout the tour the guide consistently ask me and my room mate for money for my room, causing more friction between us. Don't book with this company had the worst experience ever. Go with Intrepid or G Adventure

brandy hoffman (Google Reviewer)  

I had used them once...

09-Aug-2023

I had used them once before and loved them. I decided to try them again for a Baltic tour not knowing that they put me on another Tour group- Baltic vision. Loved that tour but was not impressed they marked up the cost for me over 100%. I understand taking some for yourself because of paperwork, but over double the cost everyone else paid on the tour. Just double check before you book with them that you’re not over paying.

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Sunday - Friday

Jan 26, 2025 - Feb 07, 2025
$1585 $1268

Operator discount: -$317

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Operator discount: -$238

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Operator discount: -$154

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Operator discount: -$154

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Operator discount: -$154

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$1585 $1427

Operator discount: -$159

Sunday - Friday

Dec 07, 2025 - Dec 19, 2025
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Operator discount: -$159

Prices last published on 21-Dec-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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