Muktinath Darsan with Kathmandu and Pokhara Tour

After breakfast, spend the day exploring Kathmandu's most sacred and historically important sites. Visit Swayambhunath (the Monkey Temple) — one of the oldest Buddhist stupas in the world, perched on a hilltop with panoramic valley views. Head to Patan Durbar Square, a UNESCO-listed courtyard filled with ancient palaces, temples and bronze statues. In the afternoon, visit Boudhanath Stupa — one of the largest Buddhist stupas in Asia and the heart of Tibetan culture in Nepal. End the day at Pashupatinath Temple, Nepal's most sacred Hindu site, for the evening Aarati ceremony on the banks of the Bagmati River — a deeply moving experience.

After breakfast, depart Kathmandu for Pokhara. For those who want an adventure, we stop at Charaudi (85 km from Kathmandu) on the Trishuli River for an exciting 3-hour white-water rafting session on Grade III rapids — no experience needed, life jackets and helmets provided. Rafting is optional — those who prefer can visit Manakamana Temple (reached by cable car with beautiful valley views) or simply relax on the drive. Continue through the green mid-hills of Nepal to Pokhara (approximately 3–4 hours). On arrival, check into your lakeside hotel and spend the evening exploring Pokhara's famous Lakeside district — cafes, restaurants, local craft shops and stunning lake views.

Depart early after breakfast for Muktinath in a comfortable jeep or tourist bus. The drive takes 8–10 hours along the Kaligandaki River valley — one of the most scenic drives in Nepal. As you climb higher, the landscape transforms dramatically: green terraced fields give way to semi-arid mountain desert, and the valley walls grow taller on either side. You pass through the ancient village of Kagbeni — gateway to Upper Mustang — with its striking Tibetan-style architecture. Continue up to Muktinath (3,710 m). Arrive in the afternoon, check into your guesthouse, and rest. The altitude here is noticeable — take it easy and drink plenty of water to help acclimatise.

Rise early for Muktinath Darshan. Arrive at the temple at sunrise when the atmosphere is most peaceful and spiritual. Bathe under the 108 sacred water spouts if you wish — each one said to cleanse sins and bring blessings. Visit the main Vishnu temple and the nearby Jwala Mai shrine, where an eternal flame burns beside flowing water — a phenomenon considered miraculous by devotees of both faiths. Also visit the adjacent Buddhist Gompa (monastery), which shares this sacred complex in a rare harmony of Hindu and Buddhist worship.

After Darshan, have breakfast in Muktinath, then begin the drive back down to Pokhara — a 5–6 hour return journey through the same spectacular Kaligandaki landscape. Arrive Pokhara by early evening, transfer to your hotel and relax.

A full day to enjoy the best of Pokhara at a relaxed pace. Start the morning with a boat ride on Phewa Lake — Pokhara's iconic centrepiece — and row across to Tal Barahi Temple, a beautiful pagoda shrine sitting on a small island in the middle of the lake. Visit Bindabasini Temple, the oldest temple in Pokhara and an important goddess shrine in the heart of the old bazaar. In the afternoon, explore the International Mountain Museum to learn about Nepal's greatest Himalayan expeditions and the Sherpa and Gurung cultures of the region. End the day with a stroll along Lakeside — browse local craft shops, enjoy a rooftop dinner with Annapurna views, or simply sit by the lake and watch the last light fade over the mountains.

After breakfast, return to Kathmandu by road or optional flight. The overland drive takes approximately 6–7 hours through the scenic hills of central Nepal — a comfortable journey with stops along the way. For those who prefer to fly, the Pokhara–Kathmandu flight takes just 25 minutes and offers stunning aerial views of the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges on a clear day (flight is at extra cost, subject to availability). Arrive in Kathmandu by afternoon, transfer to your hotel. The evening is free for last-minute shopping in Thamel — Kathmandu's lively backpacker and souvenir district — or a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

After a final breakfast at your hotel, our driver transfers you to Tribhuvan International Airport in time for your onward flight. We hope this journey through Kathmandu, Pokhara and Muktinath has been a memorable and meaningful experience. Safe travels — we hope to welcome you back to Nepal soon.