Kathmandu in 7 Days for Couples - Kathmandu Durbar Square & major UNESCO heritage sites
In Collaboration with KJ Adventure Nepal Private Limited. Updated on February 11, 2026.
Australian Camp - Dhampus trek is a relatively short trekking option along the Annapurna foothills, combined with Kathmandu heritage sightseeing and time in Pokhara. The route offers hill-station trails, village visits, and panoramic mountain views of the Annapurna range and Machhapuchhre.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with KJ Adventure Nepal Private Limited, inspired by the tour 7-Day Kathmandu, Pokhara Tour with Hike to Australian Camp. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Kathmandu Durbar Square & major UNESCO heritage sites
- Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath and Boudhanath cultural visits
- Scenic drive along Prithvi Highway to Pokhara
- Trek to Australian Camp with panoramic Annapurna views
- Village walk and lunch in Dhampus
- Short domestic flight return to Kathmandu and farewell dinner
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu. Representative meets you at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfers you to the hotel. Check-in assistance and program briefing. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Arrival: Meet & transfer to hotel
Meet your K.J. Adventures representative at the Arrival Hall (holding the lead traveller’s name) and transfer to your Kathmandu hotel. The representative will assist with check-in and provide the program briefing for the week. Special moment: a quiet rooftop welcome at the hotel after check-in (timed for late afternoon light).
Tips from local experts:
- Keep passport, visa (if needed) and printed voucher in an easily reachable place for the airport meeting.
- If you arrive late, request the representative to confirm your room number and wake-up time for the next day's activities.
- Carry a small change of local currency to pay any immediate expenses upon arrival (taxi snacks, water).
Day 2
Full-day heritage tour of Kathmandu valley: Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa. Evening preparation for the trek. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Kathmandu Durbar Square (heritage walk)
Guided visit to Kathmandu Durbar Square to view the old royal palaces, Kumari Ghar, Taleju Temple and surrounding courtyards. Includes time for photography and short walks through the square. Special moment: a quiet courtyard pause for two to enjoy traditional Newari architecture.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees; some temple areas require respectful attire.
- Bring a small bottle of water and wear comfortable shoes for uneven stone surfaces.
- Shops around the square accept cash; have small notes for small purchases or donations.
Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)
Short drive and guided visit to Swayambhunath Stupa; climb the stairs for panoramic views over the Kathmandu Valley and visit monastery shrines. Time for peaceful circumambulation and photography.
Tips from local experts:
- There are stairs to the top (several flights); take rests if needed and avoid peak sun hours.
- Dress respectfully; remove shoes when required inside smaller shrines.
- Watch for monkeys near the upper terraces—keep bags closed and avoid feeding them.
Pashupatinath Temple visit
Guided visit to Pashupatinath Temple grounds to observe the riverfront cremation ghats and view the main temple from the permitted side. The guide will explain cultural and religious significance. Note: non-Hindus cannot enter the main temple sanctum.
Tips from local experts:
- Non-Hindus cannot enter the inner sanctum; plan to stay on the visitor areas and riverbank viewpoints.
- Photography is allowed in many outside areas but avoid photographing people in cremation rituals without permission.
- Carry a light scarf or wrap; some temple areas require shoulders to be covered.
Boudhanath Stupa (evening circumambulation)
Visit Boudhanath Stupa to experience the stupa’s mandala layout, prayer wheels and surrounding monasteries. Ideal time for a gentle circumambulation and tea at a quiet rooftop cafe facing the stupa. Special moment: sunset light on the stupa while enjoying tea for two.
Tips from local experts:
- Late afternoon is an atmospheric time for the stupa and quieter than midday.
- Avoid entering any private gompas without confirming visiting hours with your guide.
- Rooftop cafes have limited seating—ask your guide to reserve a spot for the sunset view.
Evening: trek briefing & rest
Return to hotel for trek briefing and packing guidance. Time to rest and prepare clothing and daypack for next day's drive to Pokhara. Special moment: quiet dinner planning together with your guide.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm the weight and contents of any luggage carried by porters or left at the hotel.
- Charge devices and pack spare batteries/power bank for the trek day.
- Ask the guide about footwear and layering for the next-day ascent; temperatures can be cooler at higher elevations.
Day 3
Early morning scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara along Prithvi Highway. Afternoon gentle walk around Phewa Lake (Lakeside). Overnight in Pokhara.
Drive Kathmandu to Pokhara (Prithvi Highway)
Scenic private road transfer along Prithvi Highway to Pokhara. The journey passes terraced fields, river gorges and local towns. Expect a 5–7 hour drive with rest stops. Special moment: a brief roadside stop with valley views for photos.
Tips from local experts:
- Travel time varies with traffic—bring motion-sickness remedies if you’re prone to travel nausea.
- Carry snacks and water for the road; there will be scheduled restroom and tea stops.
- Keep your camera accessible; there are several photo-friendly viewpoints en route.
Afternoon: Phewa Lake (Lakeside) walk
Short, tranquil walk along Phewa Lake's Lakeside area to stretch after the drive. Time to enjoy lakeside views, boats, and gentle cafés. Special moment: lakeside sunset together overlooking the water and mountain reflections.
Tips from local experts:
- If you plan to take a short boat ride, check boat availability on arrival; life jackets are recommended.
- Sunscreen and a hat are useful for afternoon sun on the lakeshore.
- Select a lakeside cafe with outdoor seating for sunset views; cafés fill up early in high season.
Day 4
Drive to Kande, trek up to Australian Camp, descend to Dhampus for lunch, walk down to Phedi and return to Pokhara. Overnight in Pokhara.
Drive from Pokhara to Kande (start of trek)
Private transfer from Pokhara Lakeside to the Kande trailhead (approx. 45–60 minutes). Prepare for stone stair sections and forest trails once at Kande.
Tips from local experts:
- Carry your daypack with water, sun protection and a light rain layer for the hill trails.
- Confirm footwear laces and trekking poles (if used) before leaving the vehicle.
- Restrooms at the trailhead are basic—use facilities before starting the ascent.
Trek Kande to Australian Camp (uphill forest trail)
Trek the stone stairways and shaded forest trails to Australian Camp. The climb eases as you reach the hilltop camp with panoramic views over the Annapurna range. Special moment: sunrise or mid-morning mountain panorama at Australian Camp.
Tips from local experts:
- Pace the ascent steadily; take short rests and drink water frequently to manage exertion.
- Mountain views can appear suddenly—keep your camera ready and protect lenses from moisture.
- Insects can be present in shade; lightweight insect repellent is useful.
Hike Australian Camp down to Dhampus village
Descend through forested trails to Dhampus, a traditional Gurung village with slate-roofed houses. Short village walk and interaction with local settlement. Lunch arranged in Dhampus with mountain views.
Tips from local experts:
- Descending can be steep in places—use trekking poles if you have them to reduce knee strain.
- Respect local customs when entering village homes or dining areas; ask before photographing villagers.
- Carry small local currency for any incidental purchases in the village.
Lunch in Dhampus (local village lunch)
Lunch in Dhampus with close-up views of the Annapurna range. Time to relax and enjoy local Nepali food in a village setting.
Tips from local experts:
- If you have dietary restrictions, confirm ingredients in advance with the guide.
- Expect simple village-style service; carry any necessary snacks if you have strict preferences.
- Bring a small towel or wet wipes for hand-cleaning after the meal.
Trek Dhampus down to Phedi and drive to Pokhara
Walk down terraced farmland trails from Dhampus to Phedi (about an hour), then transfer by road back to Pokhara Lakeside. Evening at leisure.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear sturdy shoes for the terraced trail; steps can be uneven and narrow in places.
- There will be a short walk from the village to the road—keep valuables in your daypack.
- Confirm approximate vehicle pick-up point with the guide to avoid waiting at the roadhead.
Evening: Lakeside walk and relaxation
Return to your Pokhara hotel and enjoy a relaxed lakeside walk or a quiet cafe. Special moment: an intimate lakeside sunset together.
Tips from local experts:
- Book a table by the window or lakeside if you want an unobstructed sunset view.
- Local cafes close earlier than in major cities—check kitchen hours if you plan to dine out.
- Carry a warm layer for the evening; temperatures can drop after sunset near the lake.
Day 5
Morning domestic flight back to Kathmandu. Arrival transfer to hotel, free time in Thamel and farewell dinner in the evening. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Transfer to Pokhara Airport
Early transfer from Pokhara hotel to Pokhara Airport for the scheduled domestic flight to Kathmandu. The group will be assisted through the short domestic terminal procedures.
Tips from local experts:
- Domestic check-in may be at the small terminal—keep travel documents handy and arrive 45–60 minutes before departure.
- Carry a light jacket for the aircraft; small domestic planes can be cooler in the cabin.
- Limit checked luggage weight as per operator instructions; keep essentials in your daypack.
Flight: Pokhara to Kathmandu (approx. 25 minutes)
Scenic domestic flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu. On arrival you will be met and transferred to your Kathmandu hotel. Special moment: window views of the Annapurna range approaching Kathmandu (weather permitting).
Tips from local experts:
- Flight schedules can shift due to weather; keep flexible and follow guide instructions.
- If you prefer a window seat for mountain views, request it at check-in.
- Keep a jacket and your camera in your carry-on for quick access during disembarkation.
Arrival transfer to Kathmandu hotel & free time
Transfer from Tribhuvan International Airport to your hotel in Kathmandu. Afternoon free to stroll Thamel, rest, or shop for souvenirs.
Tips from local experts:
- If shopping in Thamel, carry small change and check opening hours; many shops close by early evening.
- Confirm the best walking routes with your guide; some streets are narrow and busy with traffic.
- Keep valuables secure while shopping; use hotel safe for passports and excess cash.
Evening: Farewell dinner in Thamel
Group farewell dinner arranged in Thamel with Nepali cuisine and a relaxed atmosphere. Special moment: a shared toast and short farewell remarks.
Tips from local experts:
- Inform the guide of any dietary restrictions ahead of the dinner to ensure appropriate meal arrangements.
- Dress is smart-casual for the farewell dinner; some restaurants may have a moderate dress code.
- Allow extra time to return to the hotel after the dinner if your room is in a quieter area of the city.
Day 6
Departure day. Representative transfers you from hotel to Tribhuvan International Airport according to your international flight schedule.
Hotel check-out and transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport
Representative collects you from the hotel and transfers you to Tribhuvan International Airport for international departure. Confirm pickup time with the representative based on airline check-in recommendation.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm your international flight’s recommended airport arrival time (typically 2–3 hours before departure) with the representative the evening prior.
- Re-check that you have passports, boarding passes, and any required travel documents in an easily accessible place.
- Allow extra time for airport traffic in Kathmandu, especially in the morning and late afternoon.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 7 |
| Highlights | 6 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 8 |
| Restaurants | 2 |
| Total Activities | 11 |
| Total Places | 11 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Culture, Break, Neighborhood, Outdoor, Meal |
