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The Golden Triangle
7 days Trek • Easy

The Golden Triangle

Discover Nepal's most iconic trio of destinations in just one week. This itinerary combines cultural immersion in Kathmandu, jungle safari in Chitwan National Park, and mountain views from Pokhara. Perfect for first-time visitors who want a comprehensive Nepal experience without the high altitude.

Difficulty

Easy

Total Cost

USD 1,200 - 1,800 (~NPR 160,000 - 240,000)

Estimated all-inclusive guide & permits

Duration

7 days

Best For

First-time visitors, Culture enthusiasts, Wildlife lovers, Beach/lake relaxation

Overview

Discover Nepal's most iconic trio of destinations in just one week. This itinerary combines cultural immersion in Kathmandu, jungle safari in Chitwan National Park, and mountain views from Pokhara. Perfect for first-time visitors who want a comprehensive Nepal experience without the high altitude.

What to Expect

Dynamic mix of ancient temples, wildlife encounters, and serene lakeside views. Expect busy streets in Kathmandu, adventure in the jungle, and peaceful relaxation in Pokhara. Weather varies by season—bring layers.

Highlights

✓Kathmandu Durbar Square
✓Chitwan Jungle Safari (rhino, tiger, birds)
✓Pokhara Lakeside
✓Sarangkot Sunrise
✓Phewa Lake Boating
✓Temple of Pashupatinath

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Kathmandu

📍 Kathmandu

Day BudgetUSD 150-200/night

Activities

  • →Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport
  • →Hotel check-in and rest
  • →Evening walk in Thamel tourist district
  • →Welcome dinner at local restaurant
Meals

L: At airport or en route

D: Welcome dinner in Thamel (included)

ACCOMMODATION

Hotel in Kathmandu (mid-range, 4-star equivalent)

💡 Note: Arrive fresh, rest and acclimate to 1,300m altitude. Light activities only today.
Day 2

Kathmandu Culture Day - Temples & History

📍 Kathmandu

Day BudgetUSD 150-200/night

Activities

  • →Sunrise at Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)
  • →Kathmandu Durbar Square tour with guide
  • →Pashupatinath Temple complex
  • →Visit to Boudhanath Stupa
  • →Evening shopping in Thamel
Meals

B: Hotel breakfast

L: Local Nepali cuisine (included guide will recommend)

D: Restaurant dinner

ACCOMMODATION

Hotel in Kathmandu

💡 Note: Full day of cultural sites. Wear modest clothing for temples. Guides speak English. All entrance fees included.
Day 3

Kathmandu to Chitwan - Jungle Arrival

📍 Chitwan National Park

Day BudgetUSD 100-150/night

Activities

  • →Fly Kathmandu to Chitwan (1 hour flight)
  • →Hotel check-in
  • →Briefing on jungle safety
  • →Afternoon jungle walk with guide
  • →Evening at lodge
Meals

B: Hotel breakfast before flight

L: At Chitwan lodge

D: Lodge dinner (included)

ACCOMMODATION

Jungle lodge in Chitwan (3-4 star)

💡 Note: Domestic flight included. Jungle walk is relatively easy—no physical strain. Bring binoculars and camera with zoom.
Day 4

Chitwan Jungle Safari - Wildlife Adventure

📍 Chitwan National Park

Day BudgetUSD 100-150/night

Activities

  • →Early morning jungle safari (5 AM start)
  • →Return for breakfast and rest
  • →Canoe ride on Rapti River
  • →Afternoon jungle walk
  • →Evening elephant interaction
Meals

B: Light breakfast before safari

L: Lodge lunch

D: Lodge dinner

ACCOMMODATION

Jungle lodge in Chitwan

💡 Note: Best day for wildlife viewing. Expect to see rhinos, deer, monkeys. Tigers rarely seen but possible. All activities guided.
Day 5

Chitwan to Pokhara - Mountain Views

📍 Pokhara

Day BudgetUSD 120-180/night

Activities

  • →Fly Chitwan to Pokhara (1 hour flight)
  • →Hotel check-in with Phewa Lake view
  • →Walk along lakeside promenade
  • →Boating on Phewa Lake at sunset
  • →Visit local lakeside restaurants
Meals

B: Lodge breakfast before flight

L: At airport or Pokhara

D: Lakeside restaurant dinner

ACCOMMODATION

Lake-view hotel in Pokhara

💡 Note: Transition day to relaxation. Domestic flight included. Sunset boat ride is magical. Restaurant options excellent and affordable.
Day 6

Pokhara - Mountains & Lakes

📍 Pokhara

Day BudgetUSD 120-180/night

Activities

  • →4:30 AM departure to Sarangkot for sunrise (1 hour uphill walk)
  • →Sunrise over Himalayas with Annapurna views
  • →Return for breakfast
  • →Visit Devi's Fall
  • →Cave exploration (Gupteshwar Mahal Cave)
  • →Evening paragliding option (USD 150-200 extra)
Meals

B: Early breakfast before Sarangkot walk

L: Local restaurant

D: Lakeside dinner

ACCOMMODATION

Lake-view hotel in Pokhara

💡 Note: Sarangkot sunrise is spectacular—bring warm layer and camera. Cave visit is unique experience. Paragliding optional but recommended (weather dependent).
Day 7

Departure from Pokhara

📍 Pokhara / Kathmandu

Day BudgetVariable (domestic flight USD 60-80)

Activities

  • →Morning free time for shopping or last-minute activities
  • →Flight back to Kathmandu (1 hour)
  • →Transfer to airport for international departure
  • →Or stay extra night in Kathmandu if flights allow
Meals

B: Hotel breakfast

L: At airport

ACCOMMODATION

None (departure day)

💡 Note: Early morning domestic flight back to Kathmandu. Airport transfer included. Check flight times in advance.

✓ Included in Cost

  • +All accommodation (mid-range hotels)
  • +All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
  • +Internal flights (Kathmandu-Chitwan-Pokhara-Kathmandu)
  • +All guided tours and activities
  • +Park entrance fees
  • +Jungle safari permit

✕ Not Included in Cost

  • -International flights to Nepal
  • -Travel insurance
  • -Personal expenses
  • -Alcoholic beverages (except where noted)
  • -Tips for guides and drivers

Essential Packing List

🎒Lightweight, breathable clothing
🎒Comfortable walking shoes
🎒Sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses)
🎒Camera with good zoom for wildlife
🎒Insect repellent
🎒Lightweight rain jacket
🎒Quick-dry clothing for water activities

Pro Tips

  • ★Book flights in advance—domestic flights can fill quickly
  • ★Early morning is best for Sarangkot sunrise (4:30 AM start)
  • ★Bring binoculars for better wildlife viewing
  • ★Jungle walks require good footwear
  • ★Acclimate in Kathmandu for 1-2 days before activities
  • ★Respect wildlife—maintain distance during safari
INTEGRATED HIMALAYAN EXPEDITION GRAPH

Required Gear, Peaks & Connected Travel Planning

16 connected resources
50+10L Ergonomic Internal-Frame Alpine Backpack
gears
Essential

50+10L Ergonomic Internal-Frame Alpine Backpack

Packs & Bags

NPR 14,000 (~$105)View Details →
UV SteriPEN & Micro-Filtration Purifier
gears
Essential

UV SteriPEN & Micro-Filtration Purifier

Health & Safety

NPR 8,500 (~$64)View Details →
3-Layer Ripstop Waterproof Breathable Storm Shell
gears
Essential

3-Layer Ripstop Waterproof Breathable Storm Shell

Apparel & Insulation

NPR 16,000 (~$120)View Details →
Kathmandu Valley
destinations
Destination

Kathmandu Valley

Heart of Nepali Culture and History

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Pokhara
destinations
Destination

Pokhara

Lake City and Gateway to Adventures

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Chitwan National Park
destinations
Destination

Chitwan National Park

Nepal's Premier Wildlife Sanctuary

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Machhapuchhre (Fishtail)
mountains
Sacred Peak

Machhapuchhre (Fishtail)

6,993m (22,943ft)

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5-Star Luxury Hotels
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Accommodation

5-Star Luxury Hotels

Premium Hospitality in Nepal

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Luxury Resorts
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Accommodation

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Exclusive Experiences in Nature

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Boutique Hotels
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Accommodation

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Unique Character and Personal Touch

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Cultural Tours
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Experience

Cultural Tours

Living Heritage and Traditions

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Jungle Safari
experiences
Experience

Jungle Safari

Wildlife Adventure in Nepal's Wilderness

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Culinary Journey
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Experience

Culinary Journey

Taste the Flavors of the Himalayas

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Visa & Entry Requirements
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Travel Guide

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Essential Travel Documents and Procedures

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Transportation Guide
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Transportation Guide

Getting Around Nepal

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Currency & Money Management
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Travel Guide

Currency & Money Management

Financial Guide for Nepal

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Ready for Your Adventure?

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