Travel

How to spend five days in Nepal

GVI

Posted: March 9, 2023

If you’re planning a trip to Nepal and have five days to explore, you’re in for a treat. Nepal is a country that’s rich in culture, history, and natural beauty, with plenty of must-see sights and experiences to discover. Let’s take a look at what you can do in Nepal for five days.

Day 1: Kathmandu

Start your trip by heading to the capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu. This city is known for its rich history and cultural heritage, and there’s plenty to see and do here. Begin your day by visiting Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple. This iconic temple is situated on a hilltop and is surrounded by hundreds of monkeys. It’s a great place to take in the stunning views of the city and to learn about Buddhist culture and tradition.

Next, head to Durbar Square, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This complex of palaces, temples, and courtyards dates back to the 12th century and is a great place to see traditional Newari architecture and learn about the history of the Malla and Shah dynasties that ruled the region. You can also visit the Kumari Ghar, which is the home of the Living Goddess Kumari, a young girl who is worshipped as a deity.

Finish your day by visiting Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most sacred Hindu temples in the world. It’s located on the banks of the Bagmati River and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Here you can witness Hindu cremation ceremonies, which can be a solemn but educational experience. You can also explore the temple complex and learn about Hindu culture and traditions.

Day 2: Bhaktapur

On your second day, head to Bhaktapur, a small city located just outside of Kathmandu. It’s known for its well-preserved historic architecture and traditional way of life. Start your day by visiting Bhaktapur Durbar Square, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you can see the Palace of Fifty-Five Windows, which was built in the 15th century, and the Nyatapola Temple, one of the tallest temples in Nepal.

After exploring Durbar Square, head to the pottery village of Thimi. Here you can see traditional pottery making techniques and purchase handmade pottery items as souvenirs. It’s also a great place to try local snacks and sweets, such as sel roti and juju dhau.

Finish your day by visiting Changu Narayan Temple, which is located on a hilltop and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It’s another UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its intricate carvings and sculptures. The temple complex dates back to the 4th century and is one of the oldest Hindu temples in Nepal.

Day 3: Pokhara

On day three, head to Pokhara, a city located in central Nepal. It’s known for its stunning natural beauty and is often referred to as the gateway to the Himalayas. Start your day by visiting Phewa Lake, the second-largest lake in Nepal. Here you can take a boat ride and enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains.

Next, visit the International Mountain Museum, which is dedicated to the history and culture of mountaineering. It’s a great place to learn about famous mountaineers such as Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay and to see exhibits on mountaineering tools and equipment.

Finish your day by visiting the World Peace Pagoda, which is located on a hilltop overlooking Pokhara. This Buddhist stupa is a great place to take in the views of the surrounding mountains and to learn about Buddhist philosophy and teachings.

Day 4: Chitwan National Park

On your fourth day, head to Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best places in Nepal to experience wildlife. The park is home to Bengal tigers, Indian rhinoceroses, and many species of birds and reptiles.

Start your day by taking a canoe ride down the Rapti River, which runs through the park. This is a great way to spot wildlife such as crocodiles, birds, and maybe even a rhinoceros or two. After the canoe ride, take a guided jungle walk or jeep safari to explore the park further and spot more wildlife. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a tiger!

In the afternoon, visit a Tharu village, which is a local ethnic group in the region. Here you can learn about their traditional way of life, such as their unique mud houses and the traditional dances they perform.

Day 5: Nagarkot

On your final day, head to Nagarkot, a small hill station located just outside of Kathmandu. It’s known for its stunning views of the Himalayas, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Start your day by waking up early to catch the sunrise over the Himalayas. On a clear day, you can see Mount Everest and other peaks in the range. After the sunrise, take a short hike to explore the surrounding hills and forests.

In the afternoon, visit the Changunarayan Temple, which is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. This temple dates back to the 4th century and is known for its intricate carvings and sculptures. It’s a great place to learn about Hindu culture and history.

Finish your day by watching the sunset over the Himalayas from Nagarkot. This is a great way to end your trip to Nepal and to reflect on all the amazing experiences you’ve had over the past five days.

In conclusion, Nepal is a country that’s full of history, culture, and natural beauty, and five days is just enough time to experience some of its highlights. From exploring the ancient cities of Kathmandu and Bhaktapur, to experiencing the wildlife of Chitwan National Park and the stunning views of the Himalayas from Nagarkot, Nepal has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in this amazing country.

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