Spending 7 days in Kathmandu, Nepal, offers a fantastic opportunity to explore its rich cultural heritage, historical sites, and breathtaking natural beauty. Here’s a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your time: ### Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu - **Morning**: Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to your hotel. - **Afternoon**: Visit Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to explore ancient palaces, temples, and shrines. - **Evening**: Enjoy a traditional Nepali dinner with cultural performances. ### Day 2: Swayambhunath and Patan Durbar Square - **Morning**: Visit Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), an iconic Buddhist stupa with stunning views of Kathmandu Valley. - **Afternoon**: Explore Patan Durbar Square, another UNESCO site known for its well-preserved Newari architecture and ancient royal palace. - **Evening**: Stroll around Thamel, a vibrant area known for its shops, restaurants, and nightlife. ### Day 3: Pashupatinath and Boudhanath - **Morning**: Visit Pashupatinath Temple, Nepal's most sacred Hindu temple complex, located on the banks of the Bagmati River. - **Afternoon**: Explore Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest stupas in Nepal and an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists. - **Evening**: Attend an evening prayer ceremony (arti) at Pashupatinath Temple. ### Day 4: Bhaktapur Durbar Square and Pottery Workshop - **Morning**: Visit Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO site famous for its medieval architecture, palaces, and temples. - **Afternoon**: Participate in a pottery workshop in Bhaktapur to learn traditional pottery-making techniques. - **Evening**: Return to Kathmandu and relax at your hotel. ### Day 5: Day Trip to Nagarkot - **Morning**: Drive to Nagarkot, a hill station known for its panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest on a clear day. - **Afternoon**: Enjoy hiking or nature walks in the surrounding countryside. - **Evening**: Watch a stunning sunset over the Himalayas. ### Day 6: Thamel Shopping and Garden of Dreams - **Morning**: Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs and handicrafts in Thamel. - **Afternoon**: Visit the Garden of Dreams, a neo-classical garden in the heart of Kathmandu, for relaxation and exploration. - **Evening**: Farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views of the city. ### Day 7: Departure - **Morning**: Free time for last-minute shopping or visiting any remaining sights. - **Afternoon**: Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure. ### Additional Tips: - **Transportation**: Use taxis, rickshaws, or hire a driver for day trips outside Kathmandu. - **Dining**: Try local Nepali dishes like momos (dumplings), dal bhat (rice and lentils), and Newari cuisine. - **Currency**: Nepalese Rupee (NPR) is the local currency, but US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas. - **Weather**: Nepal has a varied climate, so pack accordingly with layers and comfortable shoes for walking. This itinerary offers a blend of cultural exploration, historical sightseeing, and nature experiences, providing a comprehensive introduction to Kathmandu and its surroundings within 7 days. Adjustments can be made based on your interests and preferences to create a personalized and memorable holiday in Nepal.
