Traveling to Nepal for only 4 to 5 days is insufficient to do anything more than a superficial overview of this modest but diverse Himalayan country. It is never enough to obtain the greatest panoramas of Mount Everest. There is, however, a lot you can accomplish in five days to make your vacation worthwhile. And with so many things to see and do in Kathmandu Valley, Nepal’s core, you won’t have to be concerned about long journey times if you don’t want to venture far.
Nepal is a small nation with numerous breathtaking vistas, and the rich culture and scenic wonders will entice you to stay longer than five days. Nepal spans from very high mountains to jungle-infested plains, making it difficult to travel rapidly throughout the nation despite its tiny size. In five days, you’ll have enough time to experience the cultural attractions of Kathmandu and Pokhara and sample the activities that Nepal is famed for, such as short hikes and river rafting. You may even go to Base Camp on Everest (if you don’t mind boarding a helicopter!).
Itinerary 1: 5 Days Trip to Trek to Balthali Village
The Balthali Village Trip is the best way to enjoy a Himalayas trek in a short period. The track travels past tiny agricultural communities, beautiful green woods, old temples, and terraced fields, all with the snowcapped mountains of the high Himalayas in the background, making it an ideal start to trekking the Himalayas.
| Day No. | Information | Overnight |
| 1. | Travel by car to Dhulikhel, on the valley’s rim, and experience a beautiful sunset. | Dhulikhel |
| 2. | Trek through lovely towns and fields to Balthali. | Balthali |
| 3. | Touring Kathmandu’s Sights | Kathmandu |
| 4. | Trek to the holy Tibetan Buddhist shrine of Namo Buddha. | Namo Buddha |
| 5. | Trek to Panauti, a historic Newari settlement, and then return to Kathmandu via car. | Kathmandu |
This tour will take you through the following sites and experiences:
1. Dhulikhel
Dhulikhel is a scenic village on the outskirts of Kathmandu Valley in Nepal, located at an elevation of over 1500 meters. Dhulikhel’s strategic location provides the ideal vantage point for breathtaking vistas of snow-capped mountains & lush green valleys.
Must-See Attractions Dhulikhel:
- Kaali Temple
- Kailashnath Mahadev Statue
- Vishnu Temple
- Chandeshwari Temple
- Bhagwati Shiva Temple
2. Balthali
If you want to complete the Himalayan trek in a short period then the Balthali Village way will be the shortest way to complete the tour.
Must See Attractions:
- Boudhanath
- Kathmandu Durbar Square
- Swayambhunath
- Pashupatinath Temple
- Garden of Dreams
3. Kathmandu
Kathmandu is the capital city of Nepal. It appeals to all sorts of tourists, whether they seek landscapes, adventures, animals, cuisine, or culture. You may enjoy a beautiful sunset amidst the Himalayas, or you can spend a rich evening in a casino. Read Also: Top 10 Famous Hill Stations Near Kathmandu Valley, Nepal.
Must See Attractions:
- Boudhanath Stupa
- Swayambhunath Temple
- Pashupatinath Temple
- Chandragiri Hills
- Langtang National Park
- Narayanhiti Palace
- The Last Resort
- Hanuman Dhoka
Itinerary 2. Multi-Sport Adventures Itinerary in Central Nepal
On this multi-sport trip in central Nepal, enthusiastic tourists won’t have to skip some of Nepal’s top outdoor activities owing to a lack of time. Hiking, kayaking, and skydiving are all available from both Kathmandu and Pokhara.
| Day No. | Information | Overnight |
| 1. | Touring Kathmandu’s Sights | Kathmandu |
| 2. | Travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara, rafting on the Trishuli River, | Pokhara |
| 3. | Paragliding over Sarangkot Hill, Trekking to Australian Camp (1,890 m / 6,268 ft). | Australian Camp |
| 4. | Drive to Pokhara and trek from Australian Camp to Phedi | Pokhara |
| 5. | Take a flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu, and leave. | Kathmandu |
Following are the sights and experiences you’ll see throughout this tour:
1. Pokhara
Pokhara is among these locations and has a wonderful gift of extraordinary natural beauty. This gem is tucked in the Annapurna region, which has the world’s tenth tallest peak. This Himalayan wonderland is ornamented with breathtaking vistas of mountains in the background, and the city’s remarkable natural beauty makes it a famous tourist destination. Read Also: 10 Reasons Why Pokhara is a Great Place to Visit.
Must See Attractions:
- Davis Fall
- Jangchub Choeling Gompa
- Gupteshwar Mahadev Cave
- Sarangkot
- Barahi Temple
2. Australian Camp (Itinerary)
One of Nepal’s finest secrets is the Australian Base Camp. This journey takes you through the foothills of Annapurna to a spectacular Himalayan vista in a single day. It’s a very accessible trek because it does not require a TIMS card or an ACAP permit.
Itinerary of the Australian Camp
- Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara
- Drive to Kande from Pokhara and walk to Australian Camp.
- Australian Camp to Dhampus, then Drives back to Pokhara.
- Then you can go back to Kathmandu.
Note: Kathmandu must-visit attractions are mentioned above.
Itinerary 3. Helicopter Tour to Everest Base Camp and Namche Trek
Although five days will not be enough time to do the whole Everest Base Camp trip, a five-day Namche Trek & Helicopter Tour allows you to see the attractions of the Himalayan region. Trek the very first couple of days of the EBC itinerary, then take a helicopter trip the rest of the way.
| Day No. | Information | Overnight |
| 1. | Hello and welcome to Kathmandu! | Kathmandu |
| 2. | Take a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, then trek to Phakding (8,564 feet/2,620 feet). | Phakding |
| 3. | Phakding to Namche Bazaar trek (11,20 feet / 3,450 feet). | Namche Bazar |
| 4. | The helicopter Everest Tour begins in Namche. Return to Kathmandu by plane. | Kathmandu |
| 5. | Depart from Kathmandu. |
The following locations and activities will be covered during this tour:
1. Phakding
Phakding in Nepal is secluded and constructed in traditional Nepalese architecture, giving the tourist villages a distinct architectural charm. Phakding is among them, located at an elevation of 2610 m in the Khumbu section of the Dudh Kosi river basin.
Must-see attractions:
- Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour
- Irish Pub
- Tengboche Gompa
Read also: Explore Nepal’s Scenic Beauty in November
2. Namche Bazar
Namche Bazaar is the unofficial capital of Nepal’s Khumbu area and an important stopping place for trekkers and hikers on their way to Mount Everest base camp. It is situated at 3440m from sea level. Also, read 8 Most Famous Beautiful Valleys in Nepal.
Must-see attractions:
- The Saturday Market
- The Town’s Museum
- Breathtaking Sceneries from the base camp.
Note: Kathmandu must-visit attractions are mentioned above.
Conclusion
If you are visiting Nepal for a short period, this doesn’t mean you cannot make the most of your vacation. It is still feasible to see some of Nepal’s most beautiful views and hike through some of its most magnificent regions. Even if you have five days, you can still obtain a fantastic close-up view of Mount Everest.
Find out more about Nepal:
- 13 Best Places to See in Nepal in June
- Nepal Tourist Places to Visit in July
- Nepal Travel Destinations to See in August
- Top 10 Places in Nepal to See in December
- Food of Nepal – 10 Delicious Nepalese Cuisines to Try
- Top 10 Destinations to See in Nepal during Winter
- 10 Famous Offbeat Places in Nepal
- Best Time to Visit Nepal: Complete Weather Guide of Nepal
- Top 20 Famous Destinations to Visit in Nepal
- 10 Famous Reasons to Visit Kathmandu
FAQs About Planning a 5-Day Itinerary in Nepal:
1. What is a good 5-day itinerary for Nepal?
A good 5-day itinerary for Nepal includes:
- Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu, explore Thamel
- Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu (Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath)
- Day 3: Travel to Pokhara, explore Lakeside
- Day 4: Sightseeing in Pokhara (Phewa Lake, Davis Falls, World Peace Pagoda)
- Day 5: Return to Kathmandu and departure
2. What can I do in Kathmandu in 5 days?
In Kathmandu, visit major attractions like Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Patan Durbar Square, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square. You can also explore Thamel and enjoy local cuisine.
3. How is the nightlife in Kathmandu and Pokhara?
Kathmandu has a vibrant nightlife with numerous bars, pubs, and clubs in Thamel. Pokhara offers lakeside bars and live music venues, particularly along the Phewa Lake.
4. What is the best time to visit Pokhara in winter?
The best time to visit Pokhara in winter is from December to February. The weather is cool and clear, perfect for sightseeing and adventure activities.
5. Are there any beaches in Nepal?
Nepal is a landlocked country, so there are no beaches. However, it offers beautiful lakes like Phewa Lake in Pokhara where you can enjoy lakeside activities.
6. What should I include in my 5-day Nepal trip itinerary?
Include visits to Kathmandu’s historical sites, a trip to Pokhara, and activities like boating on Phewa Lake, visiting Sarangkot for sunrise, and exploring local markets.
7. Is it possible to do a 5-day trek in Nepal?
Yes, popular 5-day treks include the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek and the Mardi Himal trek. These treks offer stunning views and a chance to experience local culture.
8. What are must-see places in Nepal?
Must-see places include Kathmandu’s Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Pokhara’s Phewa Lake, Davis Falls, and the Chitwan National Park for wildlife.
9. How is Pokhara in December?
Pokhara in December is cool and pleasant, with clear skies offering great views of the mountains. It’s an ideal time for sightseeing and trekking.
10. What activities can I do in Pokhara during winter?
In Pokhara, you can go boating on Phewa Lake, visit the World Peace Pagoda, explore caves like Mahendra and Bat Cave, and enjoy the sunrise from Sarangkot.
11. What should I pack for a winter trip to Nepal?
Pack warm clothing, including thermal wear, a good jacket, gloves, and a hat. Comfortable walking shoes and layers are also recommended.
12. How many days are enough for a Nepal trip?
A week is ideal to cover major highlights of Nepal, but 5 days can give you a good glimpse of Kathmandu and Pokhara.
13. What is the best way to travel between Kathmandu and Pokhara?
The best way to travel is by flight, which takes about 25 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a tourist bus, which takes around 6-7 hours.
14. Can I visit Lumbini on a 5-day Nepal itinerary?
It can be challenging to include Lumbini in a 5-day itinerary due to travel time. However, if you have an extra day or prioritize it, you can make it possible.
15. What are some unique experiences to have in Nepal?
Unique experiences include trekking in the Himalayas, experiencing a traditional Nepali homestay, attending a cultural dance performance, and exploring ancient temples and monasteries.
