Holi festival celebration in Kathmandu with a Chitwan jeep safari and colorful boats on Pokhara's lakeHoli festival celebration in Kathmandu with a Chitwan jeep safari and colorful boats on Pokhara's lake

Nepal Holi Festival Tour 2027: 10 Days Kathmandu, Chitwan and Pokhara

  • Duration10 Days
  • Route Grade Comfort Travel
  • Trip Style Festival and Nature Discovery Tour
  • Starting City Kathmandu
  • Ending City Kathmandu
Nepal Holi Festival Tour 2027: 10 Days Kathmandu, Chitwan and Pokhara map

Trip Overview

This 10 day tour offers a joyful and colorful introduction to Nepal built around the Holi festival 2027. The trip blends festival celebration, cultural heritage, jungle wildlife, and mountain lake scenery into one well rounded holiday suited to travelers of all ages.

Trip Detail

Detail
Information

Trip Code

NF401N

Starting Point and End Point

Kathmandu to Kathmandu

Accommodation

Comfortable and centrally located 3 & 4 star hotels throughout the trip

Maximum Altitude

Approximately 1,600 m at Sarangkot

Duration

10 Days, 9 Nights

Country

Nepal

Trip Grade

Easy, suitable for families, cultural travelers, and travelers interested in festivals, wildlife, and sightseeing

Activities

Holi festival celebration, heritage sightseeing, jungle safari, canoe ride, jungle walk, sunrise viewing, boating, cultural performances

Transportation

Private vehicle for road transfers and a domestic flight between Pokhara and Kathmandu

Meals

Daily breakfast and dinner throughout the tour, with lunch included during your stay in Chitwan, including a welcome dinner, a traditional Newari dinner, and a farewell dinner

Itinerary Overview

This 10 day, 9 night Holi Festival Tour in Nepal takes you from the cultural heritage of Kathmandu to the wildlife-rich landscapes of Chitwan National Park and the lakes and Himalayan scenery of Pokhara. You will celebrate Holi in Kathmandu with local guides, enjoy a jeep safari and canoe ride in Chitwan, and take in sunrise views over the Annapurna range from Sarangkot before returning to Kathmandu for a relaxed final day and farewell dinner.

Here is a quick look at how your 10 day Nepal Holi tour unfolds.

  • Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel in Thamel, explore Thamel, and enjoy a welcome dinner.

  • Day 2: Explore Kathmandu's heritage, including Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Patan Durbar Square.

  • Day 3: Celebrate the Holi festival in Kathmandu around Basantapur Durbar Square  with local guides and enjoy an evening cultural performance.

  • Day 4: Drive to Chitwan National Park and enjoy a sunset by the Rapti River and a Tharu cultural dance performance.

  • Day 5: Enjoy a canoe ride, jungle walk, and jeep safari in Chitwan National Park.

  • Day 6: Drive to Pokhara and enjoy a sunset boat ride on Phewa Lake.

  • Day 7: Explore Pokhara with a Sarangkot sunrise, Peace Pagoda, Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Cave, and Tibetan cultural heritage. 

  • Day 8: Fly back to Kathmandu with a free afternoon for shopping, cafes, or a spa treatment.

  • Day 9: Enjoy Kathmandu at leisure with optional sightseeing and a farewell dinner with a Nepali cultural show.

  • Day 10: Departure from Kathmandu.
     

Why You Will Love This Trip

  • Experience Holi in Nepal: The main highlight of this journey is experiencing the colourful atmosphere of Holi in Kathmandu. You will visit Basantapur Durbar Square and nearby festival areas with local guides, enjoy traditional sweets, and experience the lively atmosphere of Nepal's festival of colours. Festival activities and public celebrations may vary according to official arrangements.

  • Explore Kathmandu's Heritage Sites: Kathmandu offers an extraordinary combination of Buddhist and Hindu heritage. Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Patan Durbar Square each provide a different perspective on the religious, artistic, and cultural traditions of the Kathmandu Valley.

  • Chitwan Jungle Safari: A canoe ride, jungle walk, and jeep safari in Chitwan National Park give you the chance to experience Nepal's lowland wildlife and forest scenery, along with visits to the elephant and crocodile breeding centres.

  • Sunrise at Sarangkot: One of the most rewarding moments in Pokhara is the sunrise at Sarangkot, with views over the Annapurna range on a clear morning.

  • Experience the Lakes and Hills of Pokhara: Pokhara combines peaceful lakeside scenery with spectacular mountain landscapes. The itinerary includes a sunrise visit to Sarangkot, a boat ride on Phewa Lake, the World Peace Pagoda, Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Cave, and a visit to a Tibetan refugee settlement. 

  • A Complete Festival and Culture Holiday: In 10 days, you experience a major Nepali festival, the country's most visited heritage sites, a national park safari, and the natural beauty of Pokhara, rounded off with a farewell cultural evening in Kathmandu.
     

Altitude and Activities

This is an easy cultural, festival, wildlife, and sightseeing holiday involving city tours, short walks, road journeys, a jungle safari, a canoe ride, and sightseeing at low to moderate elevations. The itinerary is suitable for families and travelers who are comfortable with normal walking and regular sightseeing.

Day
Location
Altitude
Activities
Travel Time

Day 1

Kathmandu

1,400 m

Airport transfer, Thamel walk, welcome dinner

Airport transfer

Day 2

Kathmandu

1,400 m

Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, Patan Durbar Square

Sightseeing by private vehicle

Day 3

Kathmandu

1,400 m

Holi festival celebration, Basantapur Durbar Square, cultural performance

Local, on foot and by private vehicle

Day 4

Chitwan

Approximately 150 m

Drive to Chitwan, sunset by the Rapti River, Tharu dance performance

Approximately 5 to 6 hours by road

Day 5

Chitwan

Approximately 150 m

Canoe ride, jungle walk, jeep safari, breeding centre visits

Local, within the national park

Day 6

Pokhara

Approximately 822 m

Drive to Pokhara, lakeside stroll, sunset boat ride

Approximately 5 to 6 hours by road

Day 7

Pokhara

Approximately 822 m

Sarangkot sunrise, Peace Pagoda, Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Cave, Tibetan Refugee Settlement

Sightseeing by private vehicle

Day 8

Kathmandu

1,400 m

Morning flight, free afternoon, shopping or relaxation

Approximately 25 minute flight

Day 9

Kathmandu

1,400 m

Optional sightseeing, farewell dinner

Local sightseeing

Day 10

Kathmandu

1,400 m

Departure

Airport transfer

Accommodation and Meals

You will spend 3 nights at Skye Inn Kathmandu, 2 nights at Safari Adventure Lodge or Hotel Green Park in Chitwan, 2 nights at Hotel Batika or Hotel Mount View in Pokhara, and your final 2 nights back at Skye Inn Kathmandu. These properties are mentioned for reference and are subject to availability, and a similar star hotel will be made available if any changes are required. The accommodations are equipped with all modern facilities.

Daily breakfast and dinner are included throughout the tour, and lunch is included during your stay in Chitwan, along with a welcome dinner, a traditional Newari dinner, and a farewell dinner as noted below.

Day
Location
Accommodation
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Day 1

Kathmandu

Skye Inn Kathmandu

Not Included

Not Included

Welcome dinner included

Day 2

Kathmandu

Skye Inn Kathmandu

Included

Not Included

Traditional Newari dinner included

Day 3

Kathmandu

Skye Inn Kathmandu

Included

Not Included

Included

Day 4

Chitwan

Safari Adventure Lodge or Hotel Green Park

Included

Included

Included

Day 5

Chitwan

Safari Adventure Lodge or Hotel Green Park

Included

Included

Included

Day 6

Pokhara

Hotel Batika or Hotel Mount View

Included

Not Included

Included

Day 7

Pokhara

Hotel Batika or Hotel Mount View

Included

Not Included

Included

Day 8

Kathmandu

Skye Inn Kathmandu

Included

Not Included

Included

Day 9

Kathmandu

Skye Inn Kathmandu

Included

Not Included

Farewell dinner included

Day 10

Departure

Not Applicable

Included

Not Applicable

Not Applicable

Cost Includes

Cost and Inclusions

This 10 day Holi Festival Tour in Nepal includes comfortable accommodation, airport transfers, private transportation, the domestic flight between Pokhara and Kathmandu, an experienced guide, cultural sightseeing, Holi festival experiences, Chitwan wildlife activities, and the planned sightseeing programme in Kathmandu, Chitwan, and Pokhara.

Cost Includes
Cost Excludes

Private airport arrival and departure transfers

International airfare to and from Nepal

Private vehicle transportation for all road transfers

Nepal entry visa fee

Domestic flight between Pokhara and Kathmandu

Travel insurance

Experienced English speaking guide throughout the tour

Meals not specifically listed as included

Entrance fees for listed heritage and safari sites

Personal expenses such as drinks, laundry, shopping, and phone calls

Comfortable hotel and lodge accommodation for 9 nights

Tips for guides and drivers

Welcome dinner, traditional Newari dinner, and farewell dinner

 

Jeep safari, canoe ride, and jungle walk in Chitwan National Park

 
Itinerary

Once you land in Kathmandu, our representative will meet you outside the arrival terminal with our company name and logo board and transfer you to Skye Inn Kathmandu.

After check in and time to relax, you can enjoy an evening walk through Thamel, one of Kathmandu's most popular tourist areas. The lively streets offer cafes, restaurants, shops, traditional handicrafts, and a first introduction to the atmosphere of Kathmandu.

In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner and meet your guide and fellow travelers.

  • Route: Tribhuvan International Airport to Skye Inn Kathmandu and evening walk in Thamel

  • Altitude: Approximately 1,400 m

  • Accommodation: Skye Inn Kathmandu 

  • Meals: Welcome dinner 

  • Highlights: Airport welcome, Skye Inn Kathmandu , Thamel walk, welcome dinner

    After breakfast, begin your exploration of Kathmandu's cultural heritage.Your first visit is Boudhanath Stupa, one of the most important Buddhist monuments in Nepal and one of the major cultural landmarks of Kathmandu. Continue to Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites in Nepal, located beside the Bagmati River.

    In the afternoon, visit Patan Durbar Square, a historic area known for its traditional Newari architecture, temples, courtyards, and artistic heritage. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Newari dinner and experience some of the distinctive cuisine and cultural traditions of the Kathmandu Valley.

    • Route: Kathmandu to Boudhanath, Pashupatinath, and Patan

    • Altitude: Approximately 1,400 m

    • Accommodation: Skye Inn Kathmandu

    • Meals: Breakfast and traditional Newari dinner 

    • Highlights: Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, Patan Durbar Square, traditional Newari dinner

      Today is the main festival day of your tour. After breakfast, join local guides to celebrate Holi in Kathmandu, taking part in the color throwing, music, and festive spirit that fills the city on this day. Visit Basantapur Durbar Square and the surrounding festival areas, where crowds gather to celebrate together, and enjoy traditional sweets as part of the celebration.In the evening, enjoy a cultural performance showcasing Nepal's traditional music and dance.

      • Route: Skye Inn Kathmandu to Basantapur Durbar Square and nearby festival areas

      • Altitude: Approximately 1,400 m

      • Accommodation: Skye Inn Kathmandu 

      • Meals: Breakfast and dinner 

      • Highlights: Holi festival experience, Basantapur Durbar Square, traditional sweets, local festival atmosphere, evening cultural performance

        After breakfast, leave Kathmandu and travel by private vehicle toward Chitwan National Park. The journey takes you through Nepal's countryside, with changing landscapes of hills, rivers, villages, and agricultural areas. The road journey generally takes approximately 5 to 6 hours depending on traffic, road conditions, and stops along the way.

        After arriving in Chitwan, check in to Safari Adventure Lodge or Hotel Green Park and enjoy time to relax. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful sunset experience near the Rapti River followed by a traditional Tharu cultural dance performance.

        • Route: Kathmandu to Chitwan National Park

        • Altitude: Approximately 150 m

        • Accommodation: Safari Adventure Lodge or Hotel Green Park 

        • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner 

        • Highlights: Scenic countryside drive, Chitwan National Park, jungle lodge, Rapti River sunset, Tharu cultural performance

          After breakfast, spend the day exploring Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its population of one horned rhinoceros, along with deer, crocodiles, and, with some luck, Bengal tigers. Enjoy a peaceful canoe ride along the river followed by a guided jungle walk, then head out on a jeep safari deeper into the park. Later in the day, visit the elephant and crocodile breeding centres to learn about local conservation efforts. After the day's activities, return to your lodge for a relaxed evening.

          • Route: Activities within and around Chitwan National Park 

          • Altitude: Approximately 150 m

          • Accommodation: Safari Adventure Lodge or Hotel Green Park 

          • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner 

          • Highlights: Canoe ride, jungle walk, jeep safari, wildlife experience, conservation centre visits, leisure evening

            After breakfast, travel from Chitwan to Pokhara by private vehicle. The journey passes through Nepal's changing landscapes of rivers, hills, villages, and countryside. The road journey generally takes approximately 5 to 6 hours depending on traffic, road conditions, and stops along the way.

            After arriving in Pokhara, check in to Hotel Batika or Hotel Mount View and enjoy a relaxed walk around the Lakeside area. In the evening, enjoy a sunset boat ride on Phewa Lake and take in the peaceful atmosphere of one of Nepal's most popular lakeside destinations.

            • Route: Chitwan to Pokhara

            • Altitude: Approximately 822 m

            • Accommodation: Hotel Batika or Hotel Mount View 

            • Meals: Breakfast and dinner 

            • Highlights: Scenic drive, Pokhara, Lakeside stroll, Phewa Lake, sunset boat ride

              Begin the day early with a drive to Sarangkot to experience the sunrise over the Annapurna range on a clear morning.Return toward Pokhara and continue your sightseeing with a visit to the World Peace Pagoda, a Buddhist monument located on a hill overlooking Phewa Lake and the Pokhara Valley.

              Later, visit Davis Falls and Gupteshwor Cave, two well known natural attractions in Pokhara. The day's sightseeing concludes with a visit to a Tibetan refugee settlement, where you can learn more about Tibetan cultural heritage and local handicraft traditions.

              • Route: Sightseeing around Pokhara by private vehicle 

              • Altitude: Approximately 822 m to 1,600 m

              • Accommodation: Hotel Batika or Hotel Mount View 

              • Meals: Breakfast and dinner 

              • Highlights: Sarangkot sunrise, World Peace Pagoda, Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Cave, Tibetan cultural heritage

                After breakfast, transfer to Pokhara Airport for your morning flight to Kathmandu. The flight offers a convenient return to the capital and avoids a long road journey. After arriving in Kathmandu and transferring to Skye Inn Kathmandu, enjoy a free afternoon at your own pace.

                You may spend the time shopping for souvenirs, visiting cafes, relaxing at a spa, or exploring nearby areas independently.The evening is free for you to enjoy Kathmandu according to your personal interests.

                • Route: Pokhara to Kathmandu by domestic flight

                • Altitude: Approximately 822 m to 1,400 m

                • Accommodation: Skye Inn Kathmandu 

                • Meals: Breakfast and dinner 

                • Highlights: Morning flight, free afternoon, shopping, cafes, relaxation, evening at leisure

                  After breakfast, the day is yours to spend as you like. You may choose an optional visit to Bhaktapur Durbar Square, known for its well preserved medieval architecture, or to Chandragiri Hills for wide views over the Kathmandu Valley. Alternatively, use the time for last minute shopping or independent exploration of the city.

                  In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner accompanied by a Nepali cultural performance. This provides a final opportunity to enjoy traditional music, dance, and cuisine before your departure from Nepal.

                  • Route: Optional Kathmandu cultural experience

                  • Altitude: Approximately 1,400 m

                  • Accommodation: Skye Inn Kathmandu 

                  • Meals: Breakfast and farewell dinner

                  • Highlights: Leisure time, optional Bhaktapur or Chandragiri visit, shopping, farewell dinner, Nepali cultural show

                    After breakfast, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport according to your flight schedule. Our representative will assist you with your departure transfer, bringing your 10 day Holi Festival Tour in Nepal to an end.

                    • Route: Hotel to Tribhuvan International Airport

                    • Altitude: Approximately 1,400 m

                    • Meals: Breakfast

                    • Highlights: Airport transfer and departure from Nepal

                      Trip Information

                      Know Before You Book

                      • Visa Requirements: For this 10 day trip, you will need a Nepal visa valid for your length of stay. All citizens of the world except Indian passport holders need a visa to enter Nepal, and most travelers can get a Visa on Arrival. A 15 day tourist visa costs USD 30 and comfortably covers this tour. You can apply and pay online in advance here: https://nepaliport-new.immigration.gov.np/. We recommend completing the online application ahead of time to save time at the airport.

                      • Passport Validity: Please ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your arrival date, with at least one blank page for your visa stamp.

                      • Fitness Level: This is an easy tour suitable for travelers with a normal level of fitness. The itinerary involves sightseeing, gentle walking, festival participation, and a jeep safari.

                      • Family Suitability: The tour is suitable for families and travelers who are comfortable with normal walking, sightseeing, road travel, and outdoor activities. 

                      • Festival Day: Holi is a lively and crowded celebration. Streets and festival areas in Kathmandu can get busy, and travelers should be prepared for color, water, and close crowds during the celebration.

                      • Travel Insurance: Travel insurance covering medical emergencies and trip delays is recommended.

                      • Currency and Payment Methods: We accept payments in major currencies such as USD, EUR, and GBP, though it is a good idea to carry some Nepali Rupees for smaller personal expenses.
                         

                      Accommodations, Meals, and Transportation

                      • Typical Accommodation Used: You will stay at Skye Inn Kathmandu in Kathmandu, at Safari Adventure Lodge or Hotel Green Park in Chitwan, and at Hotel Batika or Hotel Mount View in Pokhara. These properties are mentioned for reference and are subject to availability, and a similar star hotel will be made available if any changes are required. Accommodation locations are selected to provide convenient access to cultural sites, festival areas, wildlife activities, and major sightseeing attractions. 

                      • Meals: Daily breakfast and dinner are included throughout the tour, and lunch is included during your stay in Chitwan. A welcome dinner, a traditional Newari dinner, and a farewell dinner are included on their respective days. 

                      • Guide Support: An experienced English speaking guide accompanies you throughout the tour and assists with festival participation, heritage sightseeing, the Chitwan safari, and sightseeing in Pokhara.

                      • Transportation: This package includes private vehicle transfers for all road journeys and a domestic flight between Pokhara and Kathmandu.
                         

                      Seasonal Notes

                      • Holi Festival in March: This tour is timed around the Holi festival, one of Nepal's most colorful and widely celebrated occasions, drawing large and joyful crowds in Kathmandu.

                      • Weather in March: Late March is generally part of Nepal's spring season, with warm days in Kathmandu and Chitwan, and cooler mornings and evenings in Pokhara. Skies are often clear, making it a good time for sunrise views at Sarangkot.
                         

                      Health and Safety

                      • General Wellbeing: This tour stays at low to moderate elevations and does not involve high altitude trekking. It is suitable for travelers comfortable with regular sightseeing, festival crowds, and a jungle safari.

                      • Festival Crowds: Holi celebrations in Kathmandu draw large numbers of participants. Please stay close to your guide during the festival, and keep personal belongings, cameras, and phones secure and protected from water and color.

                      • Healthcare Facilities: Full hospital facilities are available in Kathmandu, Chitwan, and Pokhara. Your guide can assist with local arrangements if required.

                      • Wildlife Activities: Chitwan activities take place in a natural environment. Travelers should follow the instructions of guides, park staff, and activity providers during jungle walks, canoe rides, and safari activities.
                         

                      Packing Checklist

                      • Holi Clothing: Old or inexpensive clothing that you do not mind staining for the Holi celebration, along with comfortable clothing for the rest of the tour.

                      • Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes suitable for sightseeing, the jungle walk, and hill walking in Pokhara.

                      • Festival Gear: A rain jacket or poncho to protect against water during Holi, along with a plastic bag or cover for your phone and camera.

                      • Trail Gear: A sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, especially for the Chitwan safari and the Sarangkot sunrise excursion.

                      • Personal Items: A small daypack, reusable water bottle, personal toiletries, and any personal medications you need.
                         

                      Important Notices

                      • Travel Advisories: Before you travel, we recommend checking the latest travel advice issued by your home country. Our team is happy to provide local updates before your trip.

                      • Flight Schedule: The domestic flight between Pokhara and Kathmandu operates on a fixed schedule and may occasionally be affected by weather. We will make suitable arrangements to keep your journey smooth.

                      • Festival Programme: Holi activities and public celebrations may change according to local arrangements, official programmes, weather, security conditions, and access arrangements.

                      • Wildlife Activities: Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed. All jungle activities should be undertaken according to the instructions of qualified guides and park staff.

                      • Responsible Travel: We encourage you to respect local customs, ask permission before photographing festival participants, and take part in the Holi celebration in a respectful and safe manner.

                      Trip Preparations

                      • Is this Holi Festival Tour suitable for families with children?

                        Yes. This is an easy cultural and sightseeing holiday suitable for families. Children can enjoy the festival atmosphere, wildlife activities, boat rides, cultural performances, and sightseeing. Families should be prepared for crowds during Holi and longer road journeys between destinations.

                      • Yes, most likely. We recommend bringing clothing that you do not mind staining or discarding after the celebration.

                      • Yes, the domestic flight between Pokhara and Kathmandu is included in this package.

                      • Yes, participation in the color throwing is optional, and you are welcome to observe the festivities from a comfortable distance with your guide.

                      • The Holi festival takes place during the spring festival season. This tour is planned for March 2027 to combine the festival experience with comfortable sightseeing conditions in Kathmandu, Chitwan, and Pokhara.
                         

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