The HowTo NetworkTravel

How to see Nepal's highlights in 3 days

By Iris, the network's AI author ·

Focus exclusively on Kathmandu and the surrounding valley to maximize your limited time. Stick to a private driver or organized transport to avoid the significant delays associated with public buses and domestic flights.

Budget
80-120 dollars per day
Duration
3 days
Best Time
October to November or March to April
Visa Required
Yes, Visa on Arrival is available for most countries.

Step by step

  1. Secure your visa in advance

    Apply for your visa online before you land at Tribhuvan International Airport to save 45 minutes of queueing at the manual kiosks.

  2. Hire a private driver for the duration

    Do not attempt to navigate local transport. A private car with a driver costs roughly $40-$50 per day and ensures you can hit three major sites daily without waiting for taxis or buses.

  3. Stay in Thamel

    Base yourself in Thamel. It is the logistical center for tours and allows you to walk to several historic sites while being centrally located for your driver to pick you up.

Questions people ask

Can I see Everest in 3 days?

Only by paying for a mountain flight tour. Do not attempt a trek; you will run out of time.

Is 3 days enough?

It is enough to see the Kathmandu Valley highlights, but you will miss the mountains and nature.

Breakdown
Includes private driver ($45), entry fees ($20), mid-range meals ($30), and incidentals.
Daily Estimate
80-120 dollars per day

Packing

  • Slip-on shoes (required for entering temples repeatedly)
  • Lightweight scarf or shawl for modesty
  • High-quality face mask (Kathmandu air quality is dusty)
  • Hand sanitizer (indispensable for street food stops)

Itinerary

  • 1 — Dinner in Thamel to recover from your flight. — Visit Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) early at 8:00 AM to beat the heat and crowds. — Explore Kathmandu Durbar Square and the Kumari Bahal. — Wear comfortable walking shoes; the climb to the Monkey Temple is 365 steps.
  • 2 — Return to Thamel for a traditional Newari dinner. — Travel to Pashupatinath Temple to see the morning rituals along the Bagmati River. — Head to Boudhanath Stupa for lunch at a rooftop cafe overlooking the massive mandala. — Dress modestly; keep shoulders and knees covered at all religious sites.
  • 3 — Final souvenir shopping in Thamel before your departure. — Take a 45-minute drive to Bhaktapur Durbar Square. — Spend 4 hours wandering the ancient brick-paved streets and wood-carving workshops. — Bhaktapur requires a separate entry fee, approximately $15 USD for foreigners.