On The Trail
What It Really Looks Like
Nepal Cultural Safari Tour — What to Expect
Unobstructed Himalayan panorama from 1,592m above Pokhara at dawn
World Peace Pagoda, Phewa Lake, Devi's Fall, and the International Mountain Museum
Buddha's birthplace, the Ashoka Pillar from 249 BC, and the international monastery zone
One-horned rhino, Bengal tiger, and crocodile in one of Asia's best national parks
This is an 8-day private tour starting from Kathmandu and covering three destinations that represent very different sides of Nepal. In Pokhara you watch the Annapurna range at sunrise from Sarangkot viewpoint at 1,592m and spend a full day at the lakeside. In Lumbini you walk the Sacred Garden where Siddhartha Gautama was born in 623 BC, including the Maya Devi Temple and the Ashoka Pillar erected in 249 BC. In Chitwan you spend two nights at a jungle resort with a jeep safari, canoe ride, and guided nature walk in one of Asia’s most biodiverse national parks.
No trekking is involved. All travel between cities is by private vehicle. The most physical activity on the tour is the early morning climb to Sarangkot viewpoint, a short 20-minute walk from the road. Everything else is flat walking around temple squares, garden paths, and jungle trails with your guide. The tour suits first-time visitors to Nepal, families with children, older travellers, and anyone who wants to cover maximum ground without rushing.
MountainKick runs this as a fully private tour with a government-licensed guide throughout all 8 days. Your guide handles entrance fees, park permits, safari bookings, and all logistics between cities. Kumar and the team have been running this circuit for over a decade and know the best timing for each destination. Sarangkot at dawn, Pashupatinath in the morning before the crowds, Boudhanath at dusk, and Chitwan in the early morning when rhino and deer are most active.
What you will see and do:
- Sarangkot sunrise with the full Annapurna massif from Dhaulagiri to Manaslu in clear view
- Maya Devi Temple in Lumbini, marking the exact birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama
- Ashoka Pillar at Lumbini, erected by the Mauryan emperor Ashoka in 249 BC to mark his pilgrimage
- International monastery zone in Lumbini with temples built by Buddhist nations from Thailand to Germany
- Jeep safari in Chitwan National Park for one-horned rhino, Bengal tiger, leopard, and spotted deer
- Canoe ride on the Rapti River for gharial crocodile and waterbird sightings
- Tharu cultural dance show at the jungle resort on your first evening in Chitwan
For travellers who want to add a short trek from Pokhara before or after this tour, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek departs directly from Pokhara and pairs well with this itinerary. For a deeper Chitwan experience, the Chitwan National Park Safari runs as a standalone 3-day trip.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrive in Kathmandu
Your guide meets you at the airport and transfers you to your hotel in Thamel. If you arrive early enough, Swayambhunath is 20 minutes away and worth an afternoon visit, and Basantapur Durbar Square is a short walk from the hotel. Pre-trip briefing in the evening covers the full itinerary.
Drive to Pokhara
An early departure for Pokhara along the Prithvi Highway, following the Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers through the mid-hills. The road opens up gradually as you gain elevation and on a clear day the Annapurna range appears to the north before you reach the lake. Arrive in the afternoon with time to walk the lakeside before dinner.
Sarangkot Sunrise and Pokhara Sightseeing
An early departure for Sarangkot viewpoint where the Annapurna massif and Dhaulagiri sit directly in front of you at dawn. Back in Pokhara after breakfast for a full day of sightseeing: the World Peace Pagoda on the ridge above Phewa Lake, Devi’s Fall, Gupteshwor Cave, and the International Mountain Museum. Afternoon free at the lakeside.
Drive to Lumbini
An early departure for Lumbini along the Siddhartha Highway through the Terai lowlands. Arrive by early afternoon and head straight to the Sacred Garden. Your guide walks you through the Maya Devi Temple marking the exact birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama, the Ashoka Pillar from 249 BC, and the international monastery zone.
Drive to Chitwan
Morning drive to Sauraha on the edge of Chitwan National Park. Check in to your jungle resort and meet your naturalist guide for a briefing on the park wildlife and the next day’s safari activities. Evening Tharu cultural dance show at the resort before dinner.
Chitwan National Park Full Day
Early morning jeep safari through Chitwan National Park for one-horned rhino, Bengal tiger, leopard, and spotted deer. Mid-morning canoe ride on the Rapti River for gharial crocodile and waterbird sightings. Afternoon guided nature walk through the buffer zone with your naturalist. Chitwan has one of the highest rhino densities in Asia so sightings are common.
Drive Back to Kathmandu
Morning drive back to Kathmandu via Narayanghat and Muglin. If time allows on arrival your guide can point you toward Basantapur Durbar Square or Boudhanath before the evening. Farewell dinner in Kathmandu with a cultural performance to close out the tour.
Departure
Breakfast at your hotel, then a private transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport. Your guide sees you off at departures.
3D Route Map
Includes & Excludes
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Private airport transfers on arrival and departure Return pick-up and drop-off in a private vehicle
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7 nights accommodation with daily breakfast 2 nights Kathmandu, 2 nights Pokhara lakeside, 1 night Lumbini, 2 nights Chitwan jungle resort
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Private vehicle and driver for all inter-city transfers Air-conditioned vehicle throughout. Kathmandu to Pokhara, Pokhara to Lumbini, Lumbini to Chitwan, Chitwan to Kathmandu
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Government-licensed guide throughout all 7 days English-speaking, licensed by Nepal Tourism Board
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Entrance fees to all heritage sites on the itinerary Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, Bhaktapur, Boudhanath, World Peace Pagoda, Phewa Lake boat
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Pokhara city sightseeing World Peace Pagoda, Devi's Fall, Gupteshwor Cave, and International Mountain Museum
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Sarangkot sunrise excursion from Pokhara Early morning transfer to viewpoint and back included
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Guided tour of Lumbini Sacred Garden Maya Devi Temple, Ashoka Pillar, eternal flame, and international monastery zone
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Chitwan National Park entrance fees All park permits and conservation fees included
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Canoe ride on the Rapti River Guided by a naturalist, crocodile and waterbird sightings
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Guided nature walk in Chitwan buffer zone With a certified naturalist guide
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Tharu cultural dance show in Chitwan Evening performance at the jungle resort on Day 5
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All meals during Chitwan stay Breakfast, lunch, and dinner on Days 5 and 6
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Farewell dinner with cultural performance in Kathmandu on Day 6
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International flights
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Nepal visa fee USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, payable on arrival at Tribhuvan Airport
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Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Lumbini Chitwan meals are fully included. Budget $8 to $15 per person elsewhere
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Personal travel insurance Required. Policy should cover medical treatment and emergency evacuation
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Optional activities Paragliding, zip-lining, microlight flight, and yoga sessions are available at extra cost
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Tips for guide and driver Entirely at your discretion
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Domestic flights between cities Available on request at additional cost if you prefer to fly any leg
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Personal expenses Souvenirs, additional meals, drinks
Enhance Your Trek
We Handle the Details — At No Extra Cost
Where You'll Sleep & What You'll Eat
Kathmandu nights are at a 3-star hotel in Thamel with private en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, and WiFi. Thamel is the most practical base for this itinerary, close to the airport and the city’s main restaurants and shops.
Pokhara nights are at a 3-star lakeside hotel in the Baidam area with views of either Phewa Lake or the Annapurna range. The lakeside location puts the World Peace Pagoda boat dock, the restaurant strip, and the paragliding landing zone within walking distance.
Lumbini is one night at a 3-star hotel close to the Sacred Garden. The area is quiet and the hotel is the most practical base for the evening and early morning at the site.
Chitwan is two nights at a jungle resort in Sauraha on the edge of the national park buffer zone. Rooms are twin sharing with all meals included. The resort setting means wildlife activity is visible from the grounds and the naturalist guide is based on site.
Single room supplement is available on request at all properties.
Breakfast is included at all hotels and the jungle resort throughout the tour. All meals are included during your two nights in Chitwan. A farewell dinner with cultural performance is included in Kathmandu on Day 7.
Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Lumbini are at your own expense. In Pokhara the lakeside restaurant strip covers everything from dal bhat to wood-fired pizza at $8 to $15 per person for dinner. Lumbini has fewer options so your guide will recommend the best places near the hotel. In Kathmandu, Thamel has restaurants covering every cuisine and budget.
Chitwan resort food is simple, good quality, and plentiful. All three meals are included and served at the resort. Your naturalist guide eats with the group which is a good time to debrief on the day’s sightings.
| Lunch in Kathmandu or Pokhara | $6 to $12 per person |
| Dinner out in Pokhara lakeside | $8 to $15 per person |
| Dinner in Kathmandu, Thamel | $8 to $15 per person |
| Meals in Lumbini | $5 to $10 per person |
| Coffee and snacks | $2 to $5 per day |
| Optional activities in Pokhara | $80 to $130 per activity |
What Our Trekkers Say
“A great introduction to Nepal”
Travelling to Nepal for the first time as a couple, we had a wonderful experience with Dilman. We wanted to see more than just Kathmandu and the mountains, and this trip gave us a great mix of culture, local villages, and wildlife. He was friendly and knowledgeable and made the…
“Culture, food and wildlife all in one trip”
Sagar was fantastic with our family group of five. The children especially loved the safari, but we all enjoyed the cultural sites and learning about everyday life in different parts of Nepal. Everything was well planned without ever feeling rushed -- MountainKick made the whole trip easy from start to…
“A memorable trip through Nepal”
Travelling as a group of three friends, we had a brilliant time with Ramesh. The cultural visits were genuinely interesting and the safari was a completely different experience -- he was easygoing and always happy to answer our questions. MountainKick did a great job putting everything together, and we enjoyed…
“Much more than a sightseeing tour”
Kumar made the trip very enjoyable for our small group. We experienced temples and heritage sites, local communities, different landscapes, and wildlife, rather than just visiting the main tourist spots -- the trip felt well paced and personal. MountainKick were excellent to deal with, and we'd definitely recommend them to…
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to do this tour?
October and November are the best months. Skies are clear after the monsoon, Sarangkot sunrise views are sharp, and wildlife activity in Chitwan is at its most visible as animals gather near water sources. March and April are a close second with warmer temperatures and rhododendron in bloom. Avoid June to August if mountain views are a priority. The monsoon brings heavy rain and the Annapurna range is frequently hidden for days at a time. December and January are fine for Lumbini and Chitwan but Sarangkot mornings are cold and mountain visibility is inconsistent.
What is the difference between this tour and the Kathmandu and Pokhara Tour?
The Kathmandu and Pokhara Tour is 7 days and focuses entirely on the two cities, with more time at each destination and a dedicated Kathmandu heritage day. This 8-day Cultural Safari adds Lumbini and Chitwan National Park, giving you a broader cross-section of Nepal including wildlife and Buddhist pilgrimage. If you want more depth in Kathmandu and Pokhara, the 7-day tour is the better fit. If you want to cover more of the country in one trip, this tour makes more sense.
Will I definitely see a one-horned rhinoceros in Chitwan?
Chitwan National Park has one of the highest densities of one-horned rhinoceros in Asia and sightings are very common on jeep safaris and canoe rides along the Rapti River. The combination of a morning jeep safari, canoe ride, and afternoon nature walk gives you multiple opportunities throughout the day. Wildlife sightings can never be fully guaranteed but rhino sightings on this itinerary are the norm rather than the exception.
What other wildlife might I see in Chitwan?
Beyond the one-horned rhinoceros, Chitwan is home to Bengal tigers, gharial and mugger crocodiles, sloth bears, leopards, spotted deer, sambhar, and over 500 species of birds. Tiger sightings are rarer but do occur, particularly on early morning jeep safaris. Your naturalist guide tracks fresh signs throughout the day and positions the vehicle accordingly.
Is Lumbini worth visiting if I am not Buddhist?
es. Lumbini is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most significant archaeological sites in Asia regardless of religious background. The Maya Devi Temple marks the exact birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama, confirmed by the Ashoka Pillar erected in 249 BC. The international monastery zone has temples built by Buddhist nations from Thailand, Japan, China, Germany, and France, each architecturally distinct. It is a compelling cultural and historical destination for any traveller.
Do we fly or drive between cities?
This tour uses private vehicle for all inter-city transfers. Kathmandu to Pokhara is around 6 hours along the Prithvi Highway. Pokhara to Lumbini is around 4 to 5 hours along the Siddhartha Highway. Lumbini to Chitwan is around 3 to 4 hours. Chitwan to Kathmandu is around 4 to 5 hours via Narayanghat and Muglin. All drives have flexible stops. If you prefer to fly any leg, domestic flights can be arranged at additional cost.
What other wildlife might I see in Chitwan?
Beyond the one-horned rhinoceros, Chitwan is home to Bengal tigers, gharial and mugger crocodiles, sloth bears, leopards, spotted deer, and over 500 species of birds. Tiger sightings are rarer but do occur. Your naturalist guide will be tracking fresh signs throughout the safari.
Is this tour suitable for families with children?
Yes. There are no strenuous activities on this itinerary and the pace is comfortable throughout. The Chitwan wildlife activities, Lumbini Sacred Garden, and Pokhara lakeside are particularly engaging for younger travellers. Let us know the ages of any children when you book and we will adjust the pace and activities accordingly. The jeep safari and canoe ride are suitable for children of most ages.
Is this a private or group tour?
Fully private. You travel with your own guide and vehicle throughout all 8 days. No other travellers join your group at any point. Departure dates are flexible and set around your arrival in Kathmandu.
What fitness level is required?
No fitness preparation is needed. The most physical moment of the tour is the short walk to Sarangkot viewpoint, around 20 minutes from the road at a gentle pace. Everything else is flat walking around temple squares, garden paths, and jungle trails. The tour is suitable for all ages and fitness levels including older travellers and families with young children.
Can I customise the itinerary?
Yes. If you want an extra day in Pokhara, more time in Chitwan, or a different site added, tell us when you book and we will adjust. You can also add a short trek from Pokhara before continuing to Lumbini and Chitwan. The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek pairs particularly well with this tour. Kumar replies personally within a few hours and is happy to build the itinerary around your schedule.
Departure Dates & Pricing
No upcoming fixed departures are scheduled at the moment. Contact us to arrange a private departure on dates that suit you.
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20% Deposit — Due on booking Secures your place on the departure. Refundable within cancellation window.
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80% Balance — Due on arrival Pay the remainder in Kathmandu before the trip begins. Bank transfer, card, or cash accepted.
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Bhutan & Tibet — Full payment 20 days prior Full balance required at least 20 days before departure for Bhutan and Tibet tours.
| 30+ days before departure | Deposit forfeited, balance refunded in full |
| 15–29 days before departure | 50% of total trip cost charged |
| Under 15 days | No refund |
| MountainKick cancels trip | Full refund or reschedule |
Prices are per person based on twin-sharing accommodation. Single room supplement available on request.
| Travellers | Price Per Person (USD) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $1290 |
| 2-3 | $820 |
| 4-9 | $560 |
Ready to go? Request your preferred dates or message us directly on WhatsApp — we'll confirm availability within a few hours.
We never force our customers to follow our set itinerary. You can customize your itinerary exactly the way you want. Please share with us your ideas.
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Packing List
| Item | Qty | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Passport | 1 | Must have at least 6 months validity from your date of entry |
| Passport photos | 2 | Required for Nepal visa on arrival. Digital submission is also accepted |
| Nepal visa fee cash | 1 | USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days |
| Travel insurance documents | 1 | Digital copy on your phone is fine |
| Emergency contact list | 1 | Share a copy with someone at home |
| Item | Qty | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Comfortable walking clothes | 3 to 4 days worth | Lightweight and breathable. Kathmandu and Pokhara are warm most of the year |
| Modest temple clothing | 1 outfit | Covered shoulders and knees required at Pashupatinath and most Hindu temples |
| Light fleece or jacket | 1 | Pokhara mornings can be cool between November and February |
| Rain jacket | 1 | Useful Oct to May for afternoon showers. Essential if travelling Mar to May |
| Walking shoes | 1 pair | Comfortable for cobblestone streets and gentle hill walking |
| Sandals or slip-ons | 1 pair | You remove shoes frequently at temples. Easy on and off saves time |
| Warm layer for evenings | 1 | Kathmandu evenings drop noticeably in December and January |
| Neutral coloured clothing for safar | 2 to 3 outfits | Khaki, olive, or brown works best in Chitwan. Bright colours disturb wildlife |
| Long sleeved shirts | 2 to 3 | Protects against insects in Chitwan, especially at dawn and dusk |
| Long trousers | 2 pairs | Required for jungle walks in Chitwan buffer zone |
| Item | Qty | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Sunscreen SPF 30 or higher | 1 | Relevant year round, especially at Swayambhunath and the World Peace Pagoda which are exposed hilltop sites |
| Insect repellent | 1 large | Much more important on this tour. Chitwan at dawn and dusk has heavy mosquito activity. DEET-based repellent recommended |
| Personal medications | Full supply | Bring more than you need. Specific brands can be hard to find outside Kathmandu |
| Hand sanitiser | 1 | Useful at busy temple sites |
| Reusable water bottle | 1 | Filtered water is available at both hotels. Reduces plastic waste on the road |
| Small day bag or backpack | 1 |
| Item | Qty | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Phone and charger | 1 | A local SIM card gives you data from Day 1. We help you get one in Kathmandu |
| Camera | 1 | OptioaThe World Peace Pagoda, Lumbini, and Chitwan jeep safari all reward a proper camera with a zoom lensnal but Bhaktapur and the World Peace Pagoda are worth a proper camera |
| Universal power adapter | 1 | Nepal uses Type C, D, and M sockets |
| Power bank | 1 | Useful on the 7-hour drive days when charging is not always available |
| Item | Qty | Note |
|---|---|---|
| USD cash | Enough for visa plus backup | USD is the most useful foreign currency in Nepal for tips, optional activities, and emergencies |
| Nepali rupees | Day to day spending | Withdraw sufficient cash before leaving Pokhara. Lumbini has limited ATMs and Chitwan resorts are largely cash based |
| Credit or debit card | 1 to 2 | Visa and Mastercard accepted at most Thamel and lakeside restaurants and shops |
| Item | Note |
|---|---|
| Thermal base layer top and bottom | Kathmandu mornings drop to 2 to 5 degrees in January. Pokhara is milder but evenings are cold |
| Warm hat and gloves | Needed for Sarangkot sunrise viewpoint in winter. Early mornings are bitterly cold at 1,592m |
| Heavy fleece or down jacket | Layering works better than one thick coat for moving between cold mornings and warm afternoons |
| Warm socks | Stone temple floors are cold underfoot in winter months |
| Item | Note |
|---|---|
| Waterproof rain jacket | Daily afternoon rain is near certain in both cities. A good jacket matters more than an umbrella |
| Quick-dry clothing | Humidity is high and clothes take longer to dry between days |
| Waterproof bag cover or dry bags | Protects your camera and electronics during sudden downpours |
| Umbrella | Useful in town and at temple sites where you spend time outdoors |
Nothing on this tour requires rental equipment. Binoculars can be borrowed from the Chitwan resort if you do not have your own. Safari vehicles, canoes, and all wildlife activity gear are provided by the resort naturalist team.
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Nepal Cultural Safari Tour
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