10 Days in Nepal: 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas

10 Days in Nepal: 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas for Adventure, Culture & Nature

Nepal, a land of snow-capped peaks, dense jungles, ancient temples, and vibrant cultures, is a dream destination for many travelers. While it’s famous for housing the world’s highest mountains, there’s so much more to explore beyond Everest. With 10 days in Nepal, you can enjoy a fulfilling and diverse experience—whether you’re drawn to majestic mountain views, cultural traditions, wildlife safaris, or outdoor adventure. Here are three unique itineraries that offer different ways to experience the magic of Nepal.

Itinerary #1: Best of Central Nepal – Villages & Trekking

Day 1: Welcome to Kathmandu!
Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Kurintar
Day 3: Drive to Bandipur
Day 4: Drive from Bandipur to Pokhara, Evening Boat Tour
Day 5: Drive from Pokhara to Phedi, Trek to Pothana (1,860 m)
Day 6: Trek from Pothana to Landruk (5,135 feet / 1,565 m)
Day 7: Trek from Landruk to Ghandruk (6,365 feet / 1,940 m)
Day 8: Trek from Ghandruk to Nayapul, Drive to Pokhara
Day 9: Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu
Day 10: Depart Kathmandu

Ideal for: Nature lovers, first-time trekkers, cultural explorers, and those seeking a balanced trip

This itinerary offers a wonderful combination of gentle trekking, charming villages, and cultural insight. Beginning in Kathmandu, the journey gradually leads you through the heart of Nepal’s central hills, eventually reaching the breathtaking Annapurna mountain range. You’ll get to enjoy the beautiful landscapes without committing to strenuous high-altitude trekking, making this ideal for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed adventure.

After a warm welcome in Kathmandu, the adventure begins with a scenic drive to Kurintar, a tranquil riverside village nestled along the Trishuli River. It’s a perfect place to shake off jet lag while enjoying the natural beauty of Nepal’s lower hills. On day three, you’ll head to the picturesque hill town of Bandipur. Once an important stop on the ancient trade route between India and Tibet, Bandipur today is a quiet, car-free town rich with Newari culture and known for its panoramic views of the Himalayas.

Next, you’ll travel to Pokhara, a lakeside city that’s a hub for trekkers and outdoor enthusiasts. Take in the serene atmosphere of Phewa Lake and admire the reflections of the snow-capped peaks in the water. Then, your trekking journey begins. Over several days, you’ll hike through rhododendron forests, terraced farmland, and remote mountain villages like Pothana, Landruk, and Ghandruk. Each village has its own charm and character, offering a firsthand look into the daily lives of Nepal’s ethnic Gurung people.

The trek is moderately paced, with daily walks of 3–5 hours, and includes overnight stays in comfortable tea houses. From the peaceful paths to the stunning Himalayan vistas, this itinerary is a celebration of Nepal’s slower pace and authentic beauty. After your trek, you’ll return to Kathmandu by a short scenic flight and can spend your final day exploring ancient temples and bustling markets before heading home.

Itinerary #2: Rafting and Jungle Safari

Day 1: Welcome to Kathmandu!
Day 2: Everest Mountain Flight, Explore Kathmandu
Day 3: Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara & explore the lakeside
Day 4: Explore Pokhara
Day 5: Rafting on the Lower Seti River (Damauli to River Camp)
Day 6: Rafting on the Lower Seti River, Drive to Chitwan
Day 7: Explore Chitwan: A Day With Elephants
Day 8: Explore Chitwan: Safaris, Wildlife, and Relaxation
Day 9: Fly from Chitwan to Kathmandu
Day 10: Depart Kathmandu

Ideal for: Adventure seekers, families, nature lovers, and those who want an active yet comfortable itinerary

If you’re looking for excitement, natural beauty, and an immersive outdoor experience that doesn’t involve mountain trekking, this itinerary might be perfect for you. It offers a thrilling mix of river rafting and jungle exploration, while still allowing time for cultural sightseeing and relaxation.

Your journey begins in Kathmandu with visits to some of the capital’s most iconic landmarks such as Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, and the historic Patan Durbar Square. The following morning, you’ll kick off the adventure with a scenic flight around Mount Everest—an unforgettable way to see the tallest peak in the world without setting foot on a trail.

From there, you’ll fly to Pokhara, where you can spend time enjoying the city’s relaxed lakeside ambiance. Whether you’re paddling across Phewa Lake, visiting the Peace Pagoda, or soaring above the valley on a paragliding flight, Pokhara offers the perfect prelude to the more rugged part of the journey.

On day five, the action ramps up with two days of rafting on the Lower Seti River. This stretch of river is gentle, with Grade II rapids suitable for beginners, but it still delivers plenty of excitement and stunning scenery. As you float downstream, you’ll pass through remote gorges, verdant forests, and charming riverside communities. You’ll spend the night at a comfortable riverside camp, falling asleep to the sounds of the jungle and flowing water.

After rafting, you’ll be driven to Chitwan National Park, one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in South Asia. Here, you’ll spend several days exploring the jungle on guided safaris and experiencing unforgettable interactions with elephants. Spend time with mahouts learning how to care for the animals, walk with elephants through the forest, and relax in a peaceful lodge surrounded by lush jungle.

By the time you return to Kathmandu, you’ll have experienced a rich variety of landscapes, from high mountains to river valleys to tropical lowlands, all within a compact and well-paced itinerary.

Itinerary #3: Best of Southern Nepal – Wildlife & Spirituality

Day 1: Welcome to Kathmandu!
Day 2: Fly from Kathmandu to Chitwan
Day 3: Explore Chitwan: A Day With Elephants
Day 4: Explore Chitwan: Safari by Jeep or by Foot
Day 5: Drive from Chitwan to Lumbini
Day 6: Drive from Lumbini to Bardia National Park
Day 7: Explore Bardia: Jungle & River Safari
Day 8: Explore Bardia: In Search of the Royal Bengal Tiger
Day 9: Fly from Bardia to Kathmandu
Day 10: Depart Kathmandu

Ideal for: Wildlife enthusiasts, spiritual travelers, photographers, and those looking to go beyond the usual tourist trail

For those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience, the southern plains of Nepal—known as the Terai—offer a world of wildlife, spirituality, and rural charm. This itinerary is designed to showcase Nepal’s biodiversity and deep spiritual heritage, taking you from lush jungles to the sacred birthplace of the Buddha, and finally to one of the most untouched national parks in the country.

After your arrival in Kathmandu, you’ll fly directly to Chitwan National Park. Your first few days here will be dedicated to observing wildlife and engaging in ethical elephant encounters. Chitwan is home to rare species such as the one-horned rhinoceros, gharial crocodile, and hundreds of bird species. You’ll go on Jeep and walking safaris, and also get the unique opportunity to spend a day with elephants—helping to feed and bathe them, and learning about conservation efforts in the region.

Next, the journey continues westward to Lumbini, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that marks the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama Buddha. Here, ancient ruins meet modern temple architecture, with serene monastic zones maintained by Buddhist communities from around the world. Whether or not you’re religious, Lumbini offers a quiet, contemplative atmosphere that contrasts beautifully with the wild jungles and noisy cities.

From Lumbini, you’ll embark on a longer but rewarding drive to Bardia National Park, Nepal’s most remote and less-visited wildlife reserve. Because it receives fewer visitors than Chitwan, the chances of spotting elusive wildlife—like the Royal Bengal Tiger—are much higher. Bardia offers river and jungle safaris, village visits, and a deeper dive into Nepal’s conservation work. Over two days, you’ll explore its untamed beauty, guided by naturalists who know every bird call and animal track.

You’ll wrap up the journey by flying back to Kathmandu for your final night in the city. It’s a perfect itinerary for those wanting to connect with nature, culture, and something truly unique in Nepal.

Final Thoughts

Ten days in Nepal may not seem long, but with smart planning and the right itinerary, you can explore an astonishing variety of experiences. Whether you’re looking to walk ancient trails, paddle down jungle rivers, or track tigers in the wild, Nepal delivers adventures that are both soul-stirring and unforgettable. Pick the itinerary that best fits your passions—and let the journey begin.