Highlight
Explore UNESCO World Heritage sites in Kathmandu Valley
Trek through the Annapurna foothills with Himalayan views
Sunrise over the Himalayas from Sarangkot, Pokhara
Nepal Backpacking Circuit
The Ultimate Nepal Experience
An epic 11-day circuit across Nepal covering Kathmandu's heritage, Pokhara's lakes, Chitwan's jungles, and the Annapurna foothills.
The Nepal Backpacking Circuit is our flagship tour, covering Kathmandu's UNESCO sites, Pokhara's lakes and adventure activities, Chitwan's jungle safaris, and a short Annapurna foothills trek.
Perfectly balances culture, adventure, and natural beauty in one comprehensive journey.
The route runs Kathmandu to Kathmandu, covering Multi-city Tour across 11 days with a highest point of 13,550 ft. It is graded moderate, which makes it a strong fit for travellers who are comfortable walking a full day but do not need prior technical experience.
Departures run in fixed monthly batches of 2-16 persons, led by certified trip captains carrying a first-aid kit and oxygen on the high sections. The best window is March - May, September - November.
Why travellers love it
Day wise plan
A complete day-wise plan for Nepal Backpacking Circuit covering drives, trail sections, altitude gain, meals, and overnight stays from start to finish.
Arrive, transfer to hotel. Welcome dinner with Nepali cuisine.
Full day guided tour: Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Kathmandu Durbar Square.
Scenic transfer to Pokhara. Boating on Phewa Lake.
Sarangkot sunrise, Devi's Fall, Gupteshwor Cave, World Peace Pagoda. Optional paragliding.
Begin Annapurna foothills trek through terraced farmlands.
Ascend the famous Ulleri steps through rhododendron forests.
Pre-dawn hike to Poon Hill (10,531 ft) for sunrise. Descend to Ghandruk.
Final descent. Drive to Chitwan for jungle safari.
Full day: canoe ride, jungle walk, jeep safari, Elephant Breeding Center.
Scenic drive back to Kathmandu. Farewell dinner.
Transfer to airport for departure.
Itinerary route map
2-stop route — Kathmandu → Pokhara. Dashed gray = road transfer · solid red = trekking.
Text route list (accessible alternative to the map)
Elevation profile
Distance-based altitude chart for Nepal Backpacking Circuit using verified trek segment distances. Hover or drag across the profile to explore each stage.
| Day | Location | Altitude | Distance | Duration | Δ from prev. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrival in Kathmandu | 4,600 ft | — | Full day | — |
| Day 2 | Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing | — | — | 6-7 hrs | — |
| Day 3 | Pokhara | 2,700 ft | — | 6-7 hrs | — |
| Day 4 | Pokhara Exploration | — | — | Full day | — |
| Day 5 | Nayapul | 5,000 ft | 12 km | 5-6 hrs | — |
| Day 6 | Ghorepani | 9,400 ft | 10 km | 6-7 hrs | +4,400 ft |
| Day 7 | Ghandruk | 6,400 ft | 14 km | 7-8 hrs | -3,000 ft |
| Day 8 | Nayapul, to Chitwan | 1,500 ft | — | 6-7 hrs | -4,900 ft |
| Day 9 | Chitwan Jungle Safari | — | — | Full day | — |
| Day 10 | Kathmandu | — | — | 6-7 hrs drive | — |
| Day 11 | Departure | — | — | Half day | — |
Inclusion & exclusion
A detailed overview of everything included in your Nepal Backpacking Circuit package — stays, meals, permits, transport, and trek support — along with the costs you should plan for separately.
Inclusions
Exclusions
- Bag offloading is charged at ₹1,600 per bag.
- Maximum weight per offloaded bag should not exceed 10 kg.
- All package prices are quoted before 5% GST.
Safety Precautions and Protocols
Essential safety measures for Nepal Backpacking Circuit — from acclimatization to weather awareness and emergency protocols.
Acclimatization
- Spend time at the base camp or starting point before ascending
- Follow “climb high, sleep low” with short acclimatization hikes
- Walk slowly; report headache, nausea, or dizziness to your trek leader immediately
Weather preparedness
- Check the forecast; delay if heavy rain, snowfall, or storms are predicted
- Carry waterproof jacket, poncho, and rain cover for your pack
- Start early; reach camp before afternoon weather shifts
Hydration and nutrition
- Drink regularly even when you do not feel thirsty
- Eat balanced meals; carry energy snacks for long trail days
- Avoid alcohol at altitude — it worsens dehydration and acclimatization
Emergency protocols
- Stay with your group and follow trek leader instructions at all times
- Carry personal medications and share medical history with your leader
- Indian Treks carries a first-aid kit; serious cases are evacuated per itinerary plan
Delicious & Nutritious Food During Trek
Fresh, high-altitude meals designed for energy and warmth on Nepal Backpacking Circuit — breakfast, lunch, evening snacks, and dinner prepared by experienced cooks.
Breakfast
- Beverages: ginger/masala tea, coffee, juice
- Indian: paratha, poha, porridge, omelettes, upma
- Light options: sandwiches, jam and butter
Lunch & dinner
- Fresh roti, seasonal vegetable sabzi, dal, rice, and paneer dishes
- Hot soup and snacks on arrival at camp
- Vegetarian meals standard; inform us of dietary restrictions at booking
Trail snacks
- Energy bars, dry fruits, and packed lunch on long walking days
- Electrolyte sachets recommended — carry your preferred brand
- Plenty of safe drinking water at camps; refill bottles each morning
Best Time to Visit Nepal Backpacking Circuit
Nepal Backpacking Circuit runs best during March - May, September - November. Timing changes the trail conditions, the views, and how busy the route feels, so here is what to expect across the year.
March - May, September - November: Peak Season
This is the window Nepal Backpacking Circuit is built around. Trails are at their best, campsites are fully operational, and departures run every month with the largest choice of dates.
- Daytime temperature: 6°C – 12°C
- Night temperature: -5°C – 4°C
- Rainfall: frequent — expect rain most days and slippery trails
- Crowds: high on weekends, quieter on weekday batches
Shoulder Season: Fewer Crowds
Just before and after the March - May, September - November window the route stays open but the groups are smaller. Conditions are slightly less predictable, and the reward is a much quieter trail.
- Daytime temperature: 10°C – 18°C
- Night temperature: 2°C – 8°C
- Rainfall: light and infrequent
- Crowds: low to moderate
Off Season: Limited Access
Outside the main window the higher sections can be blocked by snow, monsoon damage, or forest department closures. Departures are paused and we recommend planning inside the March - May, September - November window instead.
- Trail access: partial or closed on the upper route
- Views: can be excellent on clear days
- Support: limited stays and transport near the base
- Crowds: very low
Things to Carry
Pack for two realities — warm sunshine at the base and cold nights at 13,550 ft. Keep your pack under 10 kg; anything heavier compounds fatigue on long trail days.
Clothing
- Base layer: 2 sets moisture-wicking thermals (top and bottom)
- Mid layer: Fleece jacket + down insulated jacket (600-fill or higher)
- Outer shell: Windproof, waterproof rain jacket with hood
- Trekking trousers: 2 pairs, quick-dry (never jeans)
- Rain pants or poncho for wet conditions
- Warm hat/beanie + cap with brim (sun protection)
- Gloves: waterproof outer gloves
- Neck gaiter / buff
- Trekking socks: 4-5 pairs (merino wool preferred)
- Camp footwear: light sandals or Crocs for evenings
Footwear
- Trekking boots: mid-to-high ankle, waterproof, broken in before the trek
- Gaiters to keep boots dry on snow and wet trails
- Extra pair of insoles in case your boots get wet inside
Equipment
How to Reach Nepal Backpacking Circuit Base Camp
Nepal Backpacking Circuit starts from Kathmandu, reached through a multi-stage journey. Plan to arrive a night before your batch reporting time.
Reach Kathmandu
Fly into Kathmandu (TIA), then take a domestic flight or tourist coach onward to the trek gateway.
Trains run up to Gorakhpur or Raxaul on the Indian side, followed by a road transfer across the border.
Overnight buses and private cabs connect Delhi and nearby cities to Kathmandu. Book the earliest arrival so you reach before the reporting time.
Kathmandu to Kathmandu
Kathmandu to Kathmandu through the main highway and hill roads.
Typically 7–11 hours depending on traffic, weather, and road conditions.
Shared taxi, private cab, or the operator-arranged Tempo Traveller included in your package.
Withdraw cash and download offline maps at the last major town — connectivity beyond the base is unreliable.
Kathmandu to the trailhead
A short local transfer brings you from Kathmandu to the official starting point.
Reach the base a night before departure so the team can complete document checks and a fitness briefing.
From here you cover Multi-city Tour over 11 days, topping out at 13,550 ft.
Policy
Booking, cancellation, refund, and participation terms so you know exactly where you stand before joining Nepal Backpacking Circuit.
| Policy Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Booking Confirmation | Your seat is considered confirmed only after the required advance payment is received. |
| Balance Payment | The remaining amount must be cleared before departure or as per the reporting instructions shared by the team. |
| Transport Selection | Pickup from the base city is applicable only if that option is selected at the time of booking. |
| ID Requirement | Every participant should carry a valid government photo ID for verification and trek administration. |
| Operational Changes | In case of weather, road, or safety concerns, the itinerary may be adjusted for the well-being of the group. |
Departures and route decisions remain subject to weather, road access, local administration, and safety conditions. Final operational calls are always taken in the interest of the group.
FAQ's
Common questions about Nepal Backpacking Circuit — difficulty, altitude, fitness, permits, stays, and what to expect on the trail.
Spring (Mar-May) and autumn (Sep-Nov) for clear skies and pleasant weather.
Yes, visa on arrival at Kathmandu airport. USD 30 for 15 days.
Why Nepal Backpacking Circuit with Indian Treks
Trusted Himalayan operator for treks across Uttarakhand, Himachal, Nepal, and Kashmir — safety-first teams, transparent pricing, and trekkers who return season after season.
Explore UNESCO World Heritage sites in Kathmandu Valley
Trek through the Annapurna foothills with Himalayan views
Sunrise over the Himalayas from Sarangkot, Pokhara
Jungle safari in Chitwan National Park
What you can expect
Rental gear for this international trek
Rentals are collected at the base camp and returned at the end of the trek. Pick a size to reserve kit for this departure.
