A wandering spirit with a love for storytelling, Neera has 250+ articles in her travel playbook. She’s currently working on her latest insider guides from a secluded Mauritian beach.
Okay, let’s be real: when newbie travelers think of Nepal, they usually think of bustling Kathmandu, Mount Everest, and the Buddha Stupa. But as someone who’s seen the ins and outs of this incredible country, I can assure you that you haven’t seen Nepal until you’ve stepped off the tourist trail. This 7-day Nepal itinerary takes you beyond the obvious.
Not only will you see Nepal at its most unvarnished, but you’ll also enjoy an immersive experience in the Tamang and Newari cultures. Best of all, you’ll be greeted by incredible sights at every turn. But before we dive into it, here are a few things you should know to ensure you have the most remarkable time in Nepal.
First things first: If you’ve never been to Nepal before, it’s important to understand how getting around isn’t always quick. Or straightforward for that matter. Unless you stick to a couple of major hubs, a 7-day itinerary in Nepal often entails domestic flights and long road trips. But if you ask me, it’s well worth it for the scenery alone!
Nepal is a country of dramatic contrasts: you’ll find everything from historic towns tucked in the hillsides, quaint alpine villages in the north, and thick forests in the south. In between, you’ll find heaps of cultural gems to explore. As such, I think that it’s best to cover some ground to properly experience the full spectrum.
Taking the public bus in Nepal is quite a fun experience, with plenty of bumps and loud local music blasting from the speakers. On the flip side, public transportation will significantly slow you down, given the many stops. For this reason, I generally recommend hiring a private vehicle to cut back on travel time.
So, grab some snacks for the long road trips, pack your patience, and let’s check out a 7-day Nepal itinerary which will take you off the grid!
Ultimate 7-Day Nepal Itinerary
Now that you know what to expect, let’s map out your 7-day Nepal itinerary. I know there are many Nepal itineraries on the internet. But as someone who has spent many of the last few years uncovering Nepal’s most remote areas (including places well beyond the tourist radar), I can assure you this is the best 7-day Nepal itinerary you’ll find online!
(Credit: Navaraj Dahal)
Day 1: Explore Kathmandu
Day 1 of your 7-day Nepal itinerary kicks off after landing in Kathmandu. Nepal’s capital city has plenty of world-class accommodation to choose from. Popular options include Hotel Butsugen, Hyatt Regency Kathmandu, and Kathmandu Marriott Hotel.
Most travelers choose to drop anchor in the capital city. After all, there’s heaps (and I do mean, heaps) to see in Kathmandu. In fact, you could easily spend an entire week in Kathmandu alone! From the iconic Patan Darbar Square to the Garden of Dreams, the Buddha Stupa, and the many temples in the vicinity, this city will undoubtedly keep you busy.
Kathmandu can be a very overwhelming city. To make the most of your first day in Nepal’s chaotic capital, I always recommend hoping on a walking tour which will shepherd you through the historic Durbar Square and back-alleys of Thamel.
For a glimpse into the local culture, head over to Kumari Ghar. According to Nepali traditions, the Living Goddess (also known as Kumari) is a young girl who represents female energy. She is selected by the priests to live in the Kumari Ghar where she will be worshiped until puberty.
If you are visiting Kathmandu in August or September, try to attend the Indra Jatra religious street festival during which the Kumari is paraded on a chariot.
While wandering the streets of Kathmandu, keep your eyes open for Itum Bahal, one of the largest Buddhist monastery bahals (courtyards) in the capital. While it’s not exactly known to tourists, this courtyard is mainly frequented by locals and monks quietly chanting prayers.
(Credit: GM Singh)
If all that sightseeing makes you hungry, you’re in luck. Kathmandu might just be one of my favorite cities in the world to dine in. For some truly traditional Nepalese food, check out Yangtaru Sekuwa Corner—a no-frills, hole-in-the-wall joint which is always packed with Kathmandu locals. While this spot doesn’t receive a lot of tourist footfall, it’s a great place for trying local specialties like khasi (goat meat) and buff sekuwa (Nepalese grilled meats).
(Credit: Amrit)
Day 2: Drive to Panauti and explore the Tamang settlements
If your plan is to get away from tourist crowds, I suggest a drive to Panauti, a small Medieval town around an hour’s drive from Kathmandu. Not only does Panauti lie at the junction of two sacred rivers, but it’s also been home to the Newari people for numerous centuries. This destination is perfect for travelers who are keen to understand the network of ancient towns which dot the Kathmandu valley, and the peoples which inhabit these towns.
Be sure to visit theIndreshwar Temple, known as the oldest surviving wooden temple in the country. If you’re into hiking, you may also wish to hit the Panauti-Sanga trail which takes you through Tamang settlements and rice paddies. You can even stop at one of the settlements to enjoy classic Tamang dishes like dhindo porridge.
(Credit: Suzal)
For a truly immersive experience in the local Tamang culture, you can even spend the night at one of the homestays. Most homestays include a traditional dinner where you sit on the floor and savor a hearty plate of dal bhat (rice, lentils, and veggies), ideally eating with your fingers—just like the locals do!
It wouldn’t quite be a 7-day Nepal itinerary without a hefty dose of adventure! Well, that’s exactly what you can expect on your third day in this incredible country.
From Panauti, I recommend taking a short hike through the small shrines, hamlets, and mustard fields which lead to Khopasi. It’s good to know that this area is especially known for its beautiful hiking trails. The terrain is uneven and rocky, so be sure to wear your sturdiest shoes.
If hiking’s not your thing, you can also drive directly from Panauti to Nuwakot. This old trade town is especially known for its historic structures, including the 18th-century Nuwakot Durbar Palace. Because it’s perched on a hill, the palace offers sweeping views of the rugged highlands. I can assure you that the fort is quite a sight to behold, with its intricate Newari architecture and seven stories.
Travel tip: I suggest heading up to the wooden tower where you can peer through the carved latticed windows for the best views of the Trishuli River Valley.
(Credit: Sangharsha Pyakurel)
Just a quick walk from the fort takes you to Bhairabi Temple which dates all the way back to the mid-1700s. If you visit in mid-April, you might be able to attend the Sindoor Jatra festivities at the temple. Celebrated to mark the Nepalese New Year, this lively festival sees locals smearing vermillion powder over each other as part of the celebrations.
Day 4: Head West to Bandipur
Day four of your 7-day Nepal itinerary takes you west into Bandipur. You’ll be on the road for over three hours, but rest assured that it’s an exceptionally scenic road trip. I’m talking winding mountain roads, terraced hills, and a distinct sense of nostalgia permeating the air.
With prayer flagsfluttering all over, Bandipur sits atop a highway. Quite ironic given that there’s exactly zero traffic in this highly walkable town. Because of the ancient brick houses and wooden sculptures, Bandipur can sometimes feel like a living museum that highlights the unique Newari culture.
By far the most popular attraction in Bandipur is the Siddha Gufa cave. Said to be the biggest cave in Nepal, Siddha Gufa is tucked away beneath a thick forest near Bandipur. An absolute natural wonder, this cathedral-like cave is filled with echoing chambers and massive stalactites.
If all the exploring makes you hungry, head over to Pratiksha Restaurant & Sweet House, a local favorite for savoring Nepalese treats like sel roti(Nepali rice doughnut). All washed down with a cup of masala chai, of course!
Travel tip: It’s a good idea to hit the road before 7 am the following morning so you can make it to your next stop in good time.
You can also swing by Tin Dhara before leaving Bandipur. This is basically a communal washing area where locals gather at the crack of dawn to gather water, chat, and do their laundry – perfect for a glimpse of everyday life in Bandipur!
(Credit: Pramod Ghimire)
Day 5: Potter about Palpa
If awe-inspiring mountain vistas and old-fashioned cobbled streets are your jam, then you’ll feel right at home in Tansen, Palpa! On day five of your 7-day Nepal itinerary, you’ll embark on yet another road trip that’ll take you from one Newari village to the next.
Not unlike Bandipur, Palpa feels suspended in time. Because it sits smack on top of a ridge, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Terai lowlands. On a clear spring day, you can even spot those towering Himalayan peaks in the distance.
(Credit: Maja Astrup H)
Tansen may share some similarities with Bandipur, but it’s got its own distinct vibe. If you’re in the mood for some shopping, head over to the old, unnamed bazaar where you can buy handwoven Dhaka fabric to bring back home.
Palpa may sit in the middle of nowhere, but it’s still home to Rani Mahal, one of the most impressive palaces in Nepal. This palace is also known as the ‘Taj Mahal of Nepal. ’ Much like India, the palace here was built in remembrance of the governor of Palpa’s dead wife. It’s quite a sight to behold, with its blue façade and serene riverside setting.
(Credit: Puspa Bakhunchhe)
After touring the palace grounds, I suggest that you head up to Srinagar Hill to watch the sunset over the village. Personally, I like to take a flask of the local salty chai to enjoy at the viewpoint. This local specialty basically consists of tea leaves, water, salt, and yak butter. Sounds weird, I know. I wasn’t super keen on trying the local salty tea either until a local friend introduced me to it. All I can say is, don’t knock it until you’ve tried it!
Day 6: Soak up the sights from Daman
Your 7-day Nepal itinerary is nearly coming to a close, so you’ve got two options here: you can either head to Pokhara (four hours from Palpa) or take a longer road trip to Daman. There’s no denying it: Pokhara is unquestionably the more popular option. And for good reason, Pokhara is incredible photogenic and full of important cultural sites likeBasundhara Park, Bhimsen Temple, and the Pokhara Regional Museum.
However, if you’re a fan of off-grid experiences like me, you can always embark on a six-hour road trip which will take you from Palpa to Daman. This just so happens to be my favorite destination in Nepal! Best of all, Daman has some excellent viewpoints for spotting those iconic Himalayan peaks in all their glory.
(Credit: Nitish Kumar Chaudhary)
For the best vistas, I recommend you head up to the Daman View Tower, a metal-and-concrete structure which is said to be one of the best-kept secrets in Nepal. Located on the Tribhuvan Highway, the tower has multiple platforms, so you don’t need to clamber all the way to the top if you’re not a fan of heights.
On clear days, you’ll even see famous Himalayan peaks like Langtang Lirung and Ganesh Himal. Now, if the weather is really good, you might just spot the majestic Mount Everest herself towering in the distance.
Travel tip: Daman lies at an altitude of 2,300 meters, so you may wish to bring some altitude sickness pills just in case.
Day 7: One last hurrah in Kathmandu
On the last day of your 7-day Nepal itinerary, get ready to hit the road again as you make your way back to the capital city. The good news is that Kathmandu lies just over a two-hour drive via the picturesque Tribhuvan Highway. If you are coming from Pokhara, you can hop on a quick domestic flight.
(Credit: Bhim B)
If you’re looking for something laid-back to do before catching your flight back home, how about treating yourself to a classic cultural experience in the capital city? Not only will you enjoy one last Nepalese feast served in a traditional thali plate, but you’ll also attend a cultural dance show during your meal.
Alternatively, you can also check out Jazz Upstairs, one of the most popular clubs in Kathmandu. Every Wednesday and Saturday, the club offers live jazz performances that you can enjoy while digging into a heaping plate of steaming Nepalese momos.
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