MileHacker Logo
Day Trips & Excursions

Day Trips & Excursions

Nepal

Nearby Destinations

Explore popular sites around Kathmandu and Pokhara that can be visited in a day.

Accessible Locations Within Day-Trip Distance

From Kathmandu:

  • Bhaktapur Durbar Square: An ancient Newari city, an UNESCO World Heritage site known for its medieval architecture, temples, and artisan culture.
  • Patan Durbar Square: Another ancient city within the Kathmandu Valley, an UNESCO site, celebrated for its exquisite Newari craftsmanship.
  • Boudhanath Stupa: One of the largest Buddhist stupas globally and an UNESCO site. A spiritual hub for Tibetan Buddhists.
  • Pashupatinath Temple: A sacred Hindu temple complex, an UNESCO site and significant pilgrimage destination.

From Pokhara

  • Sarangkot: A hilltop viewpoint famous for sunrise views over the Annapurna range and Phewa Lake.
  • Peace Pagoda (World Peace Pagoda): Buddhist stupa overlooking Phewa Lake, with panoramic views of Pokhara valley.
  • Devi's Fall & Gupteshwor Cave: Unique waterfall where water disappears underground, and a sacred cave system.
  • International Mountain Museum: Insights into mountaineering, the Himalayas, and local inhabitants.

Day Trip Logistics

Information for transportation and planning for your day excursions.

Transportation Options

Options for day trip travel.

Getting Around

  • Taxis: For individual day trips. Negotiate price or use Pathao/InDrive in Kathmandu/Pokhara.
  • Local Buses: A cheaper choice, but routes can be complex.
  • Pre-arranged Tours: Many operators offer organized day tours, combining multiple locations.

Organized Tour vs. Independent Travel

Consider how to best manage your day trips.

Comparison Points

  • Organized Tour: Easy booking, includes transport and a guide, good for seeing multiple sites efficiently. Find a tour to your destination at GetYourGuide.
  • Independent Travel: Greater flexibility, potentially lower cost with local transport, but needs self-navigation.
  • Time: Most day trips are half to full day experiences.

Time and Itinerary Suggestions

Kathmandu Valley Tours

  • Kathmandu City Tour (1-2 days): Combine Bhaktapur, Patan, Boudhanath, and Pashupatinath for a cultural and historical city tour.
  • Two-day visits for a relaxed pace are often recommended.
  • Rushing multiple sites into one day can detract from the experience.
  • Be aware of traffic in urban areas.

Pokhara Area Tours

  • Pokhara Sightseeing (1 day): Sarangkot for sunrise, then Devi's Fall, Gupteshwor Cave, and International Mountain Museum.
  • Afternoons are good for boating on Phewa Lake.
  • Early morning starts are typical for sunrise views.
  • Weather changes can impact mountain visibility.

Cost Comparison for Day Trips

  • Taxi Fares (Kathmandu):NPR 1,500 - 3,000+ per day (negotiated)
  • Local Bus Fares:NPR 50 - 200 per ride
  • Organized Half-Day Tour:USD 30 - 60 per person
  • Organized Full-Day Tour:USD 50 - 100+ per person
  • Entrance Fees (approx. For foreigners):NPR 500 - 1,500 per site
  • Guide Daily Rate:NPR 2,000 - 5,000
  • Food/Drinks (Day Trip):NPR 500 - 1,500+
  • Miscellaneous:NPR 200 - 500

Day Trip Planning Note

Prices are approximate and subject to change. Always confirm costs locally.

Natural Escapes

Nepal's natural beauty extends beyond the Annapurna Circuit.

Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park

Near Kathmandu, offers hiking trails, birdwatching, and a city escape.

Begnas & Rupa Lakes

Near Pokhara, these quieter twin lakes present a peaceful environment for relaxation and boating.

Pokhara Valley Views

Rolling hills, pristine lakes, and the Annapurna mountain range backdrop define this valley.

Rural Landscapes & Exploration

Discover Nepal's diverse natural settings and rural charm.

What to See

  • Traditional Newari Architecture
  • Local Artisan Workshops
  • Authentic Village Life

Nature's Embrace

Beyond the trek, enjoy tranquil lakes and national parks near cities.

Experiences

  • Peaceful Lakeside Retreats
  • Birdwatching Opportunities
  • Forest Hiking Trails

Outdoor Activities & Features

Hiking Trails:Extensive around Shivapuri Park
Boating:Available on Begnas and Rupa Lakes
Birdwatching:Rich biodiversity in Shivapuri
Photography:Scenic vistas everywhere
Relaxation:Tranquil village atmospheres
Local Cuisine:Try local dishes in villages

Nature's Call

  • Always stay on marked trails.
  • Respect local flora and fauna.
  • Do not litter, carry out all waste.
  • Support local conservation efforts.
  • Consider quiet reflection in natural spaces.

Cultural Excursions

Beyond the main cities, rich cultural sites and rural experiences await.

Bandipur Hill Town

Between Kathmandu and Pokhara, a Newari hill town preserving traditional architecture and culture.

Highlights

  • Relaxed Atmosphere
  • Stunning Mountain Views
  • Living Museum Experience

Manakamana Temple

Near Kurintar, an important Hindu pilgrimage site accessed by a scenic cable car.

Pilgrimage Details

  • Dedicated to Goddess Bhagwati
  • Scenic Cable Car Ride
  • On Main Kathmandu-Pokhara Road

Lumbini: Buddha's Birthplace

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. (Note: A 2-3 day trip from Kathmandu/Pokhara is needed).

Sites

  • Maya Devi Temple
  • Sacred Garden
  • Ashoka Pillar

Exploring Rural Life

Beyond the main tourist hubs, discover authentic Nepali village life.

Experiences

  • Local Farm Visits
  • Traditional Crafts
  • Community Engagement

Special Cultural Interests

Deepen your cultural experience with these focused explorations.

Newari Heritage

Explore ancient Newari towns like Bandipur for their unique architecture and traditions.

Pilgrimage Insights

Manakamana Temple offers a spiritual journey with panoramic views.

Buddhist Roots

Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, offers a profound spiritual experience.

Cultural Respect

Always seek permission for photos and dress modestly at religious sites.

Multi-Day Extensions

Consider adding extra days to your Nepal trip for wider exploration.

Recommended Extensions

Poon Hill Trek 2-3 Days

A popular shorter trek in the Annapurna region with spectacular sunrise views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

Chitwan National Park 2-3 Days

For wildlife viewing (one-horned rhinos, elephants, potentially tigers) and cultural experiences in the Terai region.

Tilicho Lake Trek 2-3 Days

A challenging but rewarding side trip from Manang on the Annapurna Circuit, leading to one of the world's highest lakes.

Logical Next Destinations

  • Everest Base Camp Trek: For another iconic Himalayan trekking experience.
  • Langtang Valley Trek: A shorter, culturally rich trek closer to Kathmandu.
  • Upper Mustang Trek: A restricted area trek offering unique Tibetan plateau landscape and ancient monasteries.
  • Manaslu Circuit Trek: A challenging and remote trekking circuit.
  • Kathmandu Valley Cultural Tour: Dedicate time to thoroughly explore Kathmandu, Patan, Bhaktapur, and Nagarkot.
  • Nepal Highlights: A common itinerary combining Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan.

Transportation Connections

  • Domestic Flights: For quick travel to Everest region (Kathmandu-Lukla) or to skip long jeep rides (Jomsom-Pokhara).
  • Tourist Buses: Connect major cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan.
  • Private Vehicles: Arrange for more comfortable and direct travel between destinations.
  • Shared Jeeps: An option for efficiency on rough roads.
  • Longer Regional Travel Routes: Consider combining the Annapurna Circuit with another major trek for an extended adventure.
  • Planning travel time between destinations is wise, as roads can be slow.

Suggested Routes for Longer Regional Travel

Kathmandu Valley Cultural Tour

3-5 days to thoroughly explore Kathmandu, Patan, Bhaktapur, and perhaps a sunrise view from Nagarkot.

Nepal Highlights

7-10 days combining the cultural richness of Kathmandu, the natural beauty and adventure activities of Pokhara, and a wildlife safari in Chitwan.

Full Trekking Experience

3-4 weeks for serious trekkers, combine the Annapurna Circuit with another major trek like Everest Base Camp or the Manaslu Circuit for an extended Himalayan adventure.

Travel Time Considerations

Factor in travel time between destinations, as roads can be slow.
← Previous
Activities & Experiences
← Back to Annapurna Circuit Trek
Next →
Practical Information

Next Up: Practical Information

Continue to Practical Information