Golden Triangle Tour in Nepal: Cost, Itinerary and Highlights

Overview

"Explore Nepal's three most popular tourist destinations: Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan National Park"

Golden Triangle Tour in Nepal? Yes, Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan Tour is best known as Golden Triangle Tour in Nepal. The three popular cities: Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan are the golden tourists’ destinations of Nepal where thousands of domestic and international tourists spend their quality of time. The tourists can visit and explore World Heritage Sites, hilltop for breathtaking mountain and sunrise views, can have authentic local cuisines and visit to ancient monuments and other religious sites and most importantly, can enjoy jungle safari in Chitawan National Park.

Why Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan are known as Golden triangles?

The most popular tourist destinations in Nepal are: Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan. Majority of the international tourists who go Nepal for their vacation trips visit explore Kathmandu Valley including Kathmandu city, Patan and Bhaktapur, Pokhara city with Phewa Lake and Sarangkot mountain viewpoint and Chitwan National, the first national park in Nepal listed by UNESCO World Heritage Site. Each city offers a unique experience, making the triangle an ideal circuit for travelers exploring Nepal

Kathmandu (Cultural, Spiritual and Religious Hub)

As the capital city, Kathmandu is the historical, cultural, and religious heart of Nepal. It is home to ancient temples, stupas, palaces, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), and Durbar Squares. The city's vibrant culture, architecture, and festivals reflect Nepal's deep-rooted traditions. The Newari people, their local cuisines and their cultures, festivals and celebrations are magnificent to observe in Kathmandu. If you extend your tour to Bhaktapur and Patan , it would definitely be more fascinating.

Pokhara ( The City of Scenic Beauty and Opportunity of Adventure Activities)

Pokhara is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, featuring stunning lakes like Phewa Lake and panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. The most alluring is among them is Machhapuchhre( fishtail).It is also a popular adventure destination, offering trekking routes (such as the Annapurna Circuit, Poonhill Trek, Annapurna Base Camp Trek and Mardi Himal Trek), paragliding, boating, and other outdoor activities. Pokhara serves as the gateway to the Annapurna region, making it a base for trekkers and nature lovers.

Chitwan (Wildlife and Nature Hub)

Chitwan is famous for Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich wildlife, the first national park to be listed in UNESCO World Heritage Sites from Nepal. Visitors can go on jungle safaris to see endangered species like the one-horned rhinoceros, royal Bengal tigers, elephants, crocodiles, deer, wild boar and various bird species. The park offers a lush contrast to the urban and mountainous settings of Kathmandu and Pokhara, providing a wilderness experience. Most importantly, people can enjoy marvelous sunset from Rapti Riverbank and enjoy adventurous Jeep Safari. At the same time, they can visit to elephant breeding center and can enjoy Tharu people cultural show with local authentic cuisines.

How is Golden Triangle Tour in Nepal Itinerary?

The Golden Triangle Tour in Nepal commences with your arrival in Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to the hotel. You will be oriented about the preparations of the tour by our travel experts beforehand the tour begins formally.

We, in the beginning visit and explore Kathmandu city with its World Heritage Sites including Monkey Temple (Swyombhunath Stupa), Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple and Bouddhanath Stupa. If you want to go Patan and Bhaktapur, you need one full day more with you.

Next, we drive or fly to Pokhara. We do Pokhara city tour by visiting the popular tourists' destinations such as Sarangkot Hill for Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Mountain Ranges with stunning sunrise, massive Phewa Lake with holy Talbarahi Temple in the island, Gupteswor Mahadev Cave, Bindhyabasini Temple, Davis Fall, World Peace Stupa and Pumdikot Mahadev Statue with grand goddess Laxmi statue.

After we complete the Pokhara city tour, we drive to Chitwan and do all Chitwan national park activities like canoeing, bird watching, jungle walk, jeep safari, sunset walk, elephant breeding center visit and Tharu people’s cultural show with authentic local cuisines.

We wrap up the Golden Triangle Tour in Nepal with a drive or fly back to Kathmandu from Chitwan and by transferring you to Tribhuvan International Airport safely for your homeward departure.

How is the Food and Accommodation in Golden Triangle Tour in Nepal?

We will use 3 * hotel accommodation for food and accommodation all round the trip in Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitawan. If the tourists want to upgrade it, they can do it with little extra cost.

This trip is based on Bed and Breakfast. If the travelers want to include all meals ( Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) , they need to add some extra cost for their lunch and dinner. But, it is flexible in the sense that you can upgrade your hotel accommodation standard and can have your own choice of lunch and dinner by going to the restaurant you like during your Golden Triangle Tour in Nepal.

How is the Transportation Facility in Golden Triangle Tour in Nepal?

We use luxury full-AC tourist bus for round trip Kathmandu-Pokhara- Chitwan- Kathmandu and hire private vehicle for city tours like in Pokhara, Chitwan and Kathmandu. All the transportation we hire and offer for our clients will comfortable, cozy and full fledged AC.

If the travelers want to upgrade the transportation to private car or jeep for the whole trip Kathmandu- Pokhara- Chitwan- Kathmandu, they can do it with extra cost.

The transportation we hire for this Golden Triangle Tour in Nepal will fresh brand, reliable and luxury to travel for multiple hours in a day.

Trip Itinerary

Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,600 ft)

Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu: Upon arrival, you will be greeted by a representative from Haven Holidays Pvt. Ltd. and transferred to your hotel safely.

Rest & Briefing: Settle into your hotel and attend a short briefing about the tour. You can put your queries if you have any regarding your Golden Traingle Tour in Nepal.

Optional evening stroll: Explore Thamel, a vibrant tourist hub with shops and cafes if you are staying in Thamel.

Day 2 : Kathmandu City Tour to 4 World Heritage Sites (1,400 m / 4,600 ft)

Breakfast at the hotel

Pashupatinath Temple Visit: A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the holiest temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. You can observe cremation at the bank of Bagmati River. Alert, if you are scared of live cremation of the dead bodies, you can escape it.

Boudhanath Stupa: One of the largest stupas in Nepal, famous for its imposing architecture and spiritual ambiance. The massive stupa with colorful prayer flags and prayer wheels make you think how this things are possible there.

Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple): This ancient religious site provides panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley. The grand Buddha’s statues, cool surrounding with deep woods, prayer flags, holy ponds and the shrines keep your fully engaged during the visit.

Kathmandu Durbar Square: Explore the historical palaces, temples, and courtyards that date back to medieval times. Visit to living goddess, Kumari at Kumari Ghar and make picture of Kal Bhairab.

Dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant: Enjoy a cultural dance performance while tasting authentic Nepali cuisine. The dance performances and the Nepali authentic cuisines like Nepali Daal Bhat Set will provide you very distinct experience.

Day 3 : Drive to Pokhara (827 m / 2,713 ft) – 6-7 hours) ( 30 min flight – Optional)

Early morning departure: Begin the scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (200 km). Along the way, enjoy views of rivers like popular one Trishuli River, local villages, and rolling hills. You will have lunch on the way to Pokhara. Sometimes, the road will be disturbed because landslides and heavy traffic. Don’t panic, everything will be okay in no time.

Check-in at the hotel in Pokhara

Leisure evening: Walk around Phewa Lake, where you can take a boat ride or visit the Tal Barahi Temple located on an island in the lake. You can observe or participate in evering Aarati( prayer) to Tal Barahi Temple at the lakeside.

Day 4 : Pokhara City Tour and Sarangkot Drive (1,600 m / 5,249 ft for Sarangkot)

Early morning drive to Sarangkot: Enjoy a 30-minute drive to Sarangkot, one of the best sunrise viewpoints. Marvel at the spectacular sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Machhapuchhre( Fishtail), Manaslu, Himal Chuli, Ganesh Himal and Lamjung Himal are other mountain peaks to be seen from Sarangkot viewpoint near Pokhara.

Return to Pokhara for breakfast

Devi’s Fall: A unique waterfall where the water from Phewa Lake flows into a deep gorge.

Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave: A sacred cave with a shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. You can observe a cowshed there in the cave and also can see the water falling from Davis Fall. Actually, Davis Fall and Gupteswor Mahadev Cave are interconnected and close by.

Bindabasini Temple: One of the oldest temples in Pokhara, offering panoramic views of the city and mountains. The temple is dedicated to goddess Laxmi, the god of wealth and power.

International Mountain Museum: Learn about the history of mountaineering, the culture of Nepal’s mountain communities, and the Himalayas. You will pend here at least 2 hours watching the documentaries and the historical collections related to mountaineering.

Day 5 : Drive to Chitwan National Park (415 m / 1,362 ft) – 5-6 hours

Drive from Pokhara to Chitwan: After breakfast, depart for Chitwan National Park (160 km). Drive along Prithvi Highway till Mungling and take right turn for Chitwan. Drive past Narayanghat Bazaar and will arrive in Chitwan in 1.30 hours.

Arrival at Chitwan: Check into your lodge or resort. Get refreshed and have some snacks if you want.

Village walk and sunset at Rapti River: Enjoy a peaceful sunset over the river and a chance to spot wildlife including elephant and one-horned rhino

Tharu Cultural Dance: In the evening, experience a traditional Tharu cultural dance, unique to the indigenous Tharu people of the region.

Day 6 : Chitwan National Park Safari Activities

Early morning jungle safari: Embark on an exciting jeep or elephant safari to spot wildlife such as one-horned rhinoceros, Bengal tigers, elephants, deer, and a variety of bird species. We, actually, don’t recommend doing elephant

Canoe ride on Rapti River: Float down the river and keep an eye out for crocodiles, water birds, and other animals.

Visit to the Elephant Breeding Center: Learn about the conservation of elephants in Nepal.

Nature walk with a naturalist: Explore the flora and fauna of Chitwan with an experienced naturalist guide.

Evening at leisure

Day 7 : Return to Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,600 ft) – 5-6 hours

Drive from Chitwan to Kathmandu: After breakfast, drive back to Kathmandu (150 km).

Rest of the day free: Use this time for last-minute shopping, personal exploration, or rest at the hotel.

Farewell dinner: Enjoy your final dinner in Kathmandu at a traditional Nepali restaurant.

Day 8 : Departure from Kathmandu

Breakfast at the hotel

Transfer to the airport: Depending on your flight time, you’ll be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight.

Highlights & Elevations:

Kathmandu: 1,400 m / 4,600 ft

Pokhara: 827 m / 2,713 ft

Sarangkot: 1,600 m / 5,249 ft

Chitwan: 415 m / 1,362 ft

Inclusions

What is included?

All Arrival and Departure Transfer from airport to airport.
Twin sharing room on 3* standard hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast basis only(For single supplement at extra cost).
Travelling out of Kathmandu like Chitwan and Pokhara on the Best tourist standard Hotels with breakfast.
Luxury tourist bus service to Kathmandu- Pokhara- Chitwan and Kathmandu,
Service of Tour guide who can explain the history of world heritage sites.
Full board meal and all the Activities service in Chitawan.
Government Local/taxes and VAT (Value added Tax).
Comprehensive Medical Kit carried by our staff if required for minor wounds and sickness.
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu.

What isn't included?

Nepal Visa, Personal Medical & Travel Insurance.
Expenses of a personal nature, meals in Kathmandu as well as extra snacks and refreshments while in Chitwan and Pokhara.
Gratitude or tipping for guide and driver.
Personal travelling gear, for your tour.
Emergency Evacuation if required by any means of transportation.
Personal medical kit, as advised by your doctors.
World Heritage Sites, Sightseeing entry fees.
Lunch and Dinner Kathmandu and Pokhara city.
Early return from the trip due to personal domestic or medical reasons, no refund will be entertained on breaking the journey.
Please Note: While you are in Pokhara if interested in Adventure Activities like Paragliding, Zip-Flyer, Ultra-Light Flight, or Bungee Jumping. Which will be at extra cost, the client needs to inform Haven Holidays Pvt. Ltd. we will arrange the options for various Adventure Sports activities, as mentioned on the itinerary.

Trip Info

Arrival

You will arrive either by air or land to Nepal for Golden Triangle Tour. If you arrive in Nepal by air, you have to use the only Tribhuvan International Airport. Instead, if you use the road, you can enter Nepal by land through various borders with neighboring countries (India and China) like Jogbani, Raksaul, Sunauli, Birjung, Kakarvitta, Jhapa, Tatopani, Rasuawagadi, etc. You can use whichever entrance is most comfortable and convenient for your arrival in Nepal for the Golden Triangle Tour.

Tourist Visa Nepal

A tourist visa is an on-arrival visa in Nepal. This means that tourists visiting Nepal can obtain their visas instantly upon arrival at international airports by presenting the required documents. TIA (Tribhuvan International Airport) under the Department of Immigration facilitates tourists arriving by air by providing visas on arrival. The 'On Arrival' visa procedure is quick and simple, taking just 5-10 minutes. However, there may be queues during the peak tourist season. To avoid these, you might consider getting a visa from a Nepalese Diplomatic Mission abroad before arriving. If possible, we recommend obtaining a visa before entering Nepal to avoid any potential hassles during the process of obtaining your tourist visa on arrival. The choice is yours. More information on tourist visas will help you plan your Golden Triangle Tour better and more enjoyably.

Transfer to Hotel

Most travelers enter Nepal by air, via Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. We will greet you upon arrival at any entry point in Nepal, particularly Tribhuvan International Airport, without delay according to your arrival time. It may take about 30 minutes to collect your luggage and clear security checks at the airport. Afterward, you will proceed to the airport exit, where a representative from Haven Holidays Pvt. Ltd. will be waiting, holding a signboard with "Haven Holidays Pvt. Ltd" written on it. Upon seeing the board, you will go with the representative, who will ensure a comfortable transfer to your hotel, where you will stay overnight. The transfer from Tribhuvan International Airport to Thamel, where your hotel is located, will take around 30 minutes.

Check into your hotel, rest, and refresh yourself. We will arrange a time for an orientation about the Golden Triangle Tour after you have checked in.

Orientation

At the time arranged during your hotel check-in, our staff will conduct an orientation about the Nepal Golden Triangle Tour. This may occur on the same day or the next morning during breakfast.

We will provide you with a brief overview of the tour, including its highlights, necessary preparations, equipment, food, accommodation, guides, porters, etc. If you have any questions, feel free to raise them during this orientation meeting before you depart for your tour.

Last Minute Booking

Last-minute booking is always open for the Golden Triangle Tour in Nepal, but the cost may be slightly higher than the regular departure dates. You can book your preferred trip on our website even a day before the tour begins.

If you’re fortunate, a last-minute booking may even allow you to secure a lower price if someone else cancels their trip at the last moment. We are always open and ready to organize your vacation trips in Nepal.

Trip Extension

We are always flexible and open to extending the tour you’re undertaking. If you’re enjoying the trip, you can extend it for additional days or hours. To arrange this, please contact us at least one day in advance so we can organize the necessary arrangements such as the trip crew, accommodation, transportation, and other essentials. An additional cost will be mutually agreed upon for the extended tour.

You may add programs like Lumbini and Namobuddha, or other short hikes and treks like the Poonhill Trek and Australian Camp Trek, to your Golden Triangle Tour in Nepal.

Currency Exchange

You can exchange currency at Tribhuvan International Airport upon arrival or after you check in at the hotel. Several currency exchange facilities are available in Kathmandu, particularly around Thamel. It is advisable to convert your currency into Nepali Rupees for easier payments during the trip. However, USD, AUD, CAD, and Indian Rupees are also widely accepted for accommodation, food, and tipping.

In major cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan, currency exchange is convenient, and many hotels and restaurants accept foreign currencies such as USD, AUD, Euro, and Indian Rupees. ATMs are also readily available in these cities to withdraw Nepali currency.

Haven Holidays Team

The Haven Holidays Team is professional, reliable, and responsible, ensuring that you have a memorable Golden Triangle Tour in Nepal. Our team is well-trained, friendly, and experienced in their respective fields. They are excellent communicators, well-versed in local culture, civilization, history, food, accommodation, weather conditions, and first aid. They are eco-friendly and understand the importance of respecting non-human life. Our team will assist you at every step to make your tour more enjoyable and convenient.

The Haven Holidays Team will provide you with authentic information about Nepalese culture, history, religion, art, architecture, and local markets. Your guide will ensure you have a resourceful and insightful experience on the Nepal Golden Triangle Tour.

Luggage and Storage

You don’t need to carry heavy luggage on this trip as it’s primarily a city tour. You can store unnecessary items at your hotel in Kathmandu, where they will be kept safe until you return. Simply ask your trip leader or hotel receptionist to manage your storage needs before you depart. Ensure that you keep your luggage tag safe until you collect your stored items upon your return to Kathmandu.

Once back from Pokhara and Chitwan, you can collect your stored items, pack up, and prepare for your departure home.

Meals

Meals will be provided as per your itinerary, depending on the inclusions of your tour package. If your package includes bed and breakfast (BB) only, you’ll receive breakfast. If you’ve booked a full-board package, you’ll get all meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Beverages such as tea, coffee, cold drinks, and alcoholic drinks are generally not included and must be paid for personally.

You’ll have ample time to enjoy meals during the tour. If you are vegetarian, there will be options available, and our guide will take care of your dietary needs.

On the Nepal Golden Triangle Tour, you’ll be exploring cities: Kahtmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan, with plenty of food options, including continental, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Indian, Nepali, and other local authentic cuisines. Specialized restaurants are available for those who want specific cuisine types.

Electricity and Charging Facility

You’ll have access to electricity throughout the Golden Triangle Tour in Nepal, enabling you to charge your devices like phones, laptops, and cameras. While there may be occasional power cuts, especially outside the main cities, this shouldn’t impact your trip significantly.

Since the tour is centered around major cities, you can enjoy uninterrupted electricity for all your devices with AC in your room.

Drinking Water

It’s important to drink safe and pure water during your Golden Triangle Tour in Nepal. Bottled and purified water is widely available in hotels and shops, and we advise you to carry your own bottled water during your tour. Avoid drinking water from local rivers, streams, and taps.

We will provide you with bottled or purified water during your daytime travels which will help you enhance your Nepal Golden Triangle Tour.

Communication

Communication facilities are excellent in cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Lumbini, with most hotels and restaurants offering free Wi-Fi. You can enjoy uninterrupted internet access throughout your Golden Triangle Tour in Nepal.

Purchasing a local Nepali SIM card (NT or NCELL) is recommended for easier communication. SIM cards are available at the airport or in Kathmandu, and you will need a copy of your passport and a passport-sized photo to obtain one. Local SIMs allow you to make calls and access the internet at affordable rates.

Feedback

At the end of your Golden Triangle Tour in Nepal, you’ll have the opportunity to provide feedback. You can share your thoughts in person at our office, during the farewell dinner in Kathmandu, or on a TripAdvisor page. Your feedback is valuable and helps us improve our services.

Extra Personal Expenses

The amount of extra personal expenses on your trip depends on your spending habits. Your transportation, guide, accommodation, and breakfast are covered, but you’ll need to pay for your lunch, dinner, and any additional expenses such as alcoholic drinks, coffee, tipping, donations, and shopping.

If you want to buy souvenirs or gifts for your loved ones, make sure to allocate extra funds. You can pay with Nepali Rupees or foreign currencies like USD, Euro, or AUD.

Typical Day in Golden Triangle Tour in Nepal

A typical day on the Golden Triangle Tour begins with breakfast at around 7-9 am. Afterward, you’ll spend 3-4 hours exploring, followed by a break for lunch. Lunch usually lasts around an hour. You’ll resume the tour afterward and finish by 4-5 pm. Vegetarian options are available, and there are vegan restaurants in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Lumbini.

Make sure to follow your guide’s instructions throughout the day.

Why with Haven Holidays?

• Free Booking and Free Cancellation

• Veteran Crew Members

• Personal Care

• Enhancing Eco-Tourism

• Prompt response, full safety, and comfort guaranteed

• No hidden costs

• Flexible and cost-friendly

• Wider networks

• Experts in risk management

Transportation for Golden Triangle Tour

You’ll enjoy private car transportation for city sightseeing in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Lumbini, and a luxury bus service for longer journeys between these cities. Domestic flights from Bhairahawa or Pokhara back to Kathmandu are available as optional extras.

Sightseeing in the cities will be conducted in a private air-conditioned car, while the longer transfers between Kathmandu and other destinations will be on a luxury tourist bus. Expect some traffic while traveling along the Prithvi Highway and other long routes.

What to Expect on the Golden Triangle Tour in Nepal?

Visits to heritage sites like Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, Patan Durbar Square, Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, and Nagarkot.
Lakeside Pokhara with Sarangkot, World Peace Stupa, and International Mountain Museum.
Lumbini’s Monasteries, Peace Garden, and Maya Devi Temple.
Experience and enjoy authentic culture, civilization, history, art, and architecture, and lifestyle of Nepali people
Enjoy having local cuisines of Newari people in Kathmandu Valley (Patan and Bhaktapur).
Celebrate this tour with private car sightseeing in the cities.
Enjoy the drive with a luxury tourist bus with countryside landscapes, villages, and rivers.
Collect all the beautiful souvenirs you like during the tour.
Celebrate marvelous views of Mt. Annapurna and Fishtail (Machhapuchhre) from Pokhara.
Enjoy your favorite food in specialized restaurants.
Gain deep and spiritual insights into Hinduism and Buddhism.
Professional and Experienced Tour Leader for Golden Triangle Tour in Nepal
Our tour leader is highly experienced, professional, and a great communicator. They have very authentic and reliable information about Nepalese history, civilization, culture, and religion, as they are well-trained in these areas. You can coordinate with them and ask for any help and information you want during the Golden Triangle Tour in Nepal.
Your leader knows better about the souvenirs you want to collect, the restaurants you want to visit, and the things you want to enjoy during the Golden Triangle Tour. You can ask them for guidance and take full advantage of their expertise.

Tipping for Your Tour Leader

Tipping for your tour leader is not mandatory, but they appreciate something extra from you after working hard to ensure you have a great experience. It’s a good idea to prepare USD 5-10 per day for your tour leader during your Golden Triangle Tour in Nepal. However, this is only a recommendation, and you are not obligated to follow it. You may choose to reward your tour leader with a handsome tip if you are especially satisfied with their service. On the other hand, if they do not provide good care or try to pursue unnecessary personal interests, you do not have to tip them. The tour leader will do their best to make you happy and satisfied, and you should try to reciprocate if you feel they deserve it.

Trip code	HHN- GT
Package name	Golden Triangle Tour in Nepal
Duration	8
Max. elevation	1500 m
Level	EASY
Transportation	Tourist Bus and Private Vehicle
Accomodation	3 * Hotel ( can be upgraded)
Starts at	Kathmandu
Ends at	Kathmandu
Trip route	Kathmandu-Pokhara- Chitawan- Kathmandu
Cost	USD 588 per person