7 Days in Nepal: A Perfect Backpacking Itinerary

Nepal is one of those rare destinations where adventure, spirituality, and culture come together in perfect harmony. With only limited days in hand, many travellers worry they can’t do it all. However, with a well-planned itinerary, you can experience the Himalayas, explore city life, as well as soak in beautiful landscapes. This perfect 7-day backpacking guide to Nepal will give you an idea about how to make the most of your time without breaking the bank.

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Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu – Dive into the City Life

Your Nepali adventure begins in Kathmandu, a city that feels like a living museum. As you step off the plane, you’re greeted by the hustle and bustle of the Kathmandu valley, the honking of motorcycles and scooters, and the instantaneous experience of a different world vibes through the ancient architecture of the centuries-old temples and squares.

What to Do:

• Visit Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): A hilltop stupa offering panoramic views of Kathmandu city and its surroundings.
• Explore Thamel: Backpacker central with cafés, gear shops, local eats, and live music.
• Try momo and Nepali tea at a local restaurant.

Stay the night in a budget guesthouse or hostel in Thamel. Rest up as tomorrow’s an early start.

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Day 2: Kathmandu to Pokhara – The Lake City Awaits

Catch a morning tourist bus (6–8 hours) or a short domestic flight (25 minutes) to Pokhara, Nepal’s laid-back lakeside town. Some visitors prefer to catch the bus to explore the route, while others want to save time by flying into Pokhara and have more time to explore the city for the day. Either way, you are guaranteed to experience Nepal up close and personal.

What to Do:

• Walk along Phewa Lake: Rent a paddle boat or watch the sun dip behind the Annapurna range.
• Visit the World Peace Pagoda for panoramic views of the lake, city and the mountains.

Pokhara is the gateway to the Annapurna region and a relaxing spot to wind down before or after treks.

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Day 3: Pokhara to Nayapul to Ulleri (Start of Trek)

Your trek begins today. Hire a guide or simply take a jeep or taxi to Nayapul (~2 hours), the starting point for the popular Ghorepani-Poon Hill trek. You can find the information about the route from the hostel or hotel you will be staying and the locals are quite friendly in giving you the ad hoc guidance on the route.

Trekking Details:

• Hike from Nayapul to Ulleri (5–6 hours).
• The trail includes stone staircases, waterfalls, and traditional villages.
• Stay overnight at a teahouse in Ulleri.

Teahouses are cosy local lodges that offer basic accommodation and hearty meals that are perfect for budget backpackers.

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Day 4: Ulleri to Ghorepani

Wake up early, stretch your legs, and head to Ghorepani, a scenic village situated in the foothills of the Annapurna range.

Highlights:

• A 6-hour gradual climb through rhododendron forests.
• Breathtaking views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges.
• Meet fellow trekkers from around the world.

Don’t forget to rest and acclimatise for the day, as tomorrow’s sunrise trek is the crown jewel of this journey.

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Day 5: Poon Hill Sunrise – Trek to Ghandruk

Set your alarm for 4:30 am and hike up to Poon Hill (3,210 m). It’s one of the most stunning sunrise viewpoints in Nepal.

What to Expect:

• Sweeping views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri.
• Golden morning light on snow-filled peaks.
• Warm tea stalls at the top to sip while you watch the sun rise.

Afterwards, descend to Ghandruk, a picturesque Gurung village (6–7 hours). Stay overnight in a Ghandruk teahouse.

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Day 6: Ghandruk to Pokhara – Relax and Recharge

Hike down to Kimche (2–3 hours) and take a jeep back to Pokhara. After days on the trail, today is all about relaxing.

What to Do:

• Get a massage or visit a yoga studio.
• Eat pizza or dal bhat at a lakeside café.
• Watch live music or grab a drink in Lakeside.

Spend the night enjoying Pokhara’s chilled-out atmosphere.

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Day 7: Return to Kathmandu – Last-Minute Culture and Souvenirs

Take a tourist bus or a quick flight back to Kathmandu. If you have time, explore what you missed on Day 1.

Optional Add-Ons:

• Shop for souvenirs in Thamel—singing bowls, pashmina scarves, and prayer wheels.
• Farewell dinner: Try a Nepali set meal with live music at a traditional restaurant.

Fly out (or extend your trip if time allows).

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Budget Breakdown (Approx.)

• Daily Meals: $10–$15
• Accommodation: $5–$25 (hotels, teahouses, hostels, depending on where you are)
• Transport (bus + flights): $50–$100
• Trekking Permits: $40–$50 (TIMS + ACAP)
• Guide (optional): ~$25/day

You can enjoy a full week in Nepal for under $400–$500, depending on your choices.

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Final Tips for Backpacking Nepal

• Travel light—you’ll be carrying your bag on treks, and terrains can be tough.
• Carry cash, especially in rural areas.
• Always filter your water or buy safe water.
• Be flexible, things may not run on schedule, and that’s part of the charm.

Nepal rewards curiosity, patience, and respect. In just seven days, you’ll gather a backpack full of memories and likely start planning your return before you even leave.

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Have more time? Extend your stay to include Chitwan National Park, Lumbini (the birthplace of Buddha), or a longer trek like Annapurna Base Camp.