9 Days in Nepal: 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With just over a week in Nepal, you have the perfect window to experience the country’s rich cultural heritage, stunning Himalayan landscapes, and thrilling adventures—all without feeling rushed. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler looking for something offbeat, these three thoughtfully crafted itineraries offer something for everyone. From trekking through rhododendron forests to exploring ancient Newari cities or flying through the Mustang region’s dramatic landscapes, your 9-day adventure in Nepal promises to be unforgettable.

Itinerary 1: Ghorepani Poon Hill & Ghandruk Trek – A Himalayan Introduction

Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu – Sightseeing (Swayambhunath, Durbar Square.

Day 2: Explore Kathmandu – Visit Pashupatinath, Patan Durbar Square

Day 3: Fly to Pokhara – Drive to Nayapul – Trek to Tikhedhunga

Day 4: Trek to Ghorepani via Ulleri and rhododendron forests

Day 5: Early hike to Poon Hill (sunrise view) – Trek to Tadapani

Day 6: Trek to Ghandruk – Explore Gurung village

Day 7: Trek to Kimche – Drive back to Pokhara – Relax by Phewa Lake

Day 8: Fly back to Kathmandu – Free afternoon for shopping or rest

Day 9: Final breakfast and departure

Perfect for first-time trekkers or those short on time, this itinerary blends cultural discovery with the serenity of mountain life. It starts in Kathmandu, where you’ll spend your first two days soaking in the energy of the capital. Explore sacred landmarks like Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), the cremation ghats of Pashupatinath, and the intricate architecture of Patan Durbar Square. These early days give you a sense of Nepal’s deep spirituality and rich history.

On day three, you’ll catch a short flight to Pokhara, a laid-back lakeside city, and then drive to Nayapul, the starting point of your trek. The trail to Tikhedhunga introduces you to Nepal’s lush countryside, with terraced rice fields, waterfalls, and traditional villages.

The trek gains elevation as you ascend to Ghorepani via Nangethanti, passing through enchanting rhododendron and oak forests. From Ghorepani, an early morning climb to Poon Hill reveals one of Nepal’s most iconic vistas: the golden sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

After breakfast, continue through tranquil forests to Tadapani, and the following day descend into the charming village of Ghandruk, known as the “Switzerland of Nepal.” Home to the Gurung people, this picturesque settlement offers cultural insights and breathtaking views.

End your trek in Kimche, and return to Pokhara to relax by Phewa Lake, perhaps with a boat ride or massage. Fly back to Kathmandu for your final night, with time to revisit your favorite spots or explore new corners of the city before departure.

Itinerary 2: Nepal’s Classic Highlights – Culture, Nature & Spirituality

Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu – Transfer to Nagarkot

Day 2: Sunrise in Nagarkot – Hike/Drive to Bhaktapur – Explore medieval town

Day 3: Visit Patan – Explore temples and local crafts – Overnight in Patan

Day 4: Fly to Chitwan – Jungle safari activities begin

Day 5: Full day jungle experience – Jeep safari, canoe ride, or jungle walk

Day 6: Drive to Lumbini – Visit Buddha’s birthplace and sacred sites

Day 7: Early morning in Lumbini – Drive to Pokhara – Relax by the lake

Day 8: Explore Pokhara – Optional paragliding, yoga, or boat ride

Day 9: Fly back to Kathmandu – Departure

This itinerary is ideal for travelers who want to experience Nepal’s diversity without intense trekking. Over nine days, you’ll visit ancient cities, lush jungles, and sacred pilgrimage sites while also finding time to unwind and reflect.

Your journey begins in the Kathmandu Valley, but rather than staying in the city center, you’ll head to Nagarkot, a peaceful hilltop town known for spectacular sunrise views of the Himalayas. From here, hike or drive to Bhaktapur, a well-preserved medieval city rich with traditional Newari architecture and craftsmanship.

Continue to Patan, a historic city within Kathmandu Valley, where narrow alleys lead to hidden temples, artisan workshops, and exquisite stone carvings. After diving deep into the cultural heart of Nepal, your adventure takes a wilder turn with a flight to Chitwan National Park.

In Chitwan, trade temples for tiger tracks as you explore the jungle by jeep safari, canoe ride, or on foot with experienced naturalists. Keep an eye out for one-horned rhinos, crocodiles, and exotic bird species—and if you’re lucky, even a Royal Bengal tiger.

Next, head to Lumbini, the peaceful birthplace of the Buddha, where monks chant under bodhi trees and pilgrims walk barefoot around ancient ruins. Visit the Maya Devi Temple, marking the spot where the Buddha was born, and soak in the serenity of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Your final stop is Pokhara, where the beauty of Phewa Lake, yoga retreats, and paragliding opportunities await. Unwind in lakeside cafés or take a boat ride to the Tal Barahi Temple before heading back to Kathmandu for your departure.

Itinerary 3: Lower Mustang Trek – Himalayan Landscapes Without the Altitude

Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu – Visit Boudhanath or Durbar Square

Day 2: Morning sightseeing – Fly to Pokhara – Relax by the lake

Day 3: Fly to Jomsom – Visit Marpha village – Taste apple products

Day 4: Trek to Kagbeni – Explore monastery and local heritage

Day 5: Trek to Jharkot – Visit 500-year-old monastery and Tibetan medicine school

Day 6: Visit Muktinath – Return to Jharkot or stay nearby

Day 7: Trek to Lupra – Visit Bonpo monastery – Return to Jomsom

Day 8: Fly back to Pokhara – Return to Kathmandu in the afternoon

Day 9: Departure from Kathmandu

If you’re intrigued by the Himalayan wilderness but wary of high-altitude trekking, this itinerary offers the perfect balance. The Lower Mustang region delivers dramatic landscapes, rich culture, and manageable trekking routes, making it accessible and rewarding.

Start your journey in Kathmandu, where you’ll dive into Nepalese culture through visits to Boudhanath Stupa at sunset, buzzing bazaars, and the ancient heart of the city at Durbar Square. Enjoy a quiet morning visiting temples before flying to Pokhara, your launchpad to the Mustang region.

From Pokhara, a scenic flight takes you to Jomsom, a stark and beautiful town nestled between the towering Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Here, the arid landscapes feel more Tibetan than tropical. Visit Marpha, a charming Thakali village famed for its apple orchards and stone houses, and sample some locally made apple brandy.

Your trek kicks off as you make your way to Kagbeni, perched dramatically above the Kali Gandaki River, which flows through the world’s deepest gorge. Explore ancient monasteries and fort ruins, then continue to Jharkot, where you’ll find a working Tibetan Medicine school and a centuries-old monastery.

One of the spiritual highlights is Muktinath, a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists, where water spouts and eternal flames symbolize purity and liberation. Afterward, hike to Lupra, home to a rare Bonpo monastery, dedicated to Nepal’s ancient animist traditions.

Return to Jomsom for a celebratory evening before flying back to Pokhara. After your return to Kathmandu, enjoy a final evening of relaxation or last-minute shopping before concluding your nine-day journey.

Final Thoughts

Nine days in Nepal can feel like a journey through multiple worlds—ancient and modern, spiritual and adventurous, mountainous and tropical. Whether you prefer trekking through the Annapurna foothills, exploring sacred cities, or discovering the unique beauty of Mustang, Nepal delivers an unforgettable experience. Each of these itineraries is designed to offer variety, balance, and a deep connection to the heart of this remarkable country.