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10 Days Nepal Family Tour 2026

10 Days

NEPAL FAMILY TOUR AT A GLANCE

Cultural + Wildlife

Tour Type

10 Days

Duration

1 to 15

Group Size

Easy, No Altitude

Difficulty

Oct to Apr

Best Season

From $1,300

Per Person

All Ages

Kid-Friendly

10-Day vs 12-Day Nepal Tour: Which Is Right for Your Family?

What You Get	10-Day Family Tour	12-Day Highlights Tour
Duration	10 days	12 days
Kathmandu full days	2	3
Pokhara nights	2	3
Chitwan safari days	2	2
Lumbini option	No (can add)	Yes
Best for	Families with kids	All travelers
Price from	$1,300	$1,300

Why Nepal Is Perfect for Family Travel

Nepal is one of the most family-friendly travel destinations in Asia, for reasons that go beyond the obvious attractions. The practical barriers to family travel are low here: English is widely spoken in every hotel, restaurant and tourist site the tour visits. The terrain on this itinerary involves no altitude problems — the highest point is Sarangkot viewpoint above Pokhara at 1,592 metres, well below the threshold where altitude sickness becomes a real concern. The roads between cities are fully paved. The tour moves by private vehicle rather than shared bus, which means rest stops happen when the family needs them, not on a fixed schedule. Food is genuinely kid-friendly — Nepali restaurants in tourist areas serve pasta, pizza, fried rice, omelettes, pancakes and momos (steamed dumplings), alongside the national dish of dal bhat which most children enjoy once they try it.

The safety record for foreign families in Nepal is excellent. Violent crime against tourists is rare. The Nepali relationship with children is warm by cultural default — locals take a genuine interest in foreign children, which creates positive interactions in every market, temple and village the tour passes through. Kathmandu's heritage sites are living religious spaces, not museum reconstructions, which means children encounter actual Hindu and Buddhist practice in real time: cremation fires on the Bagmati River ghats at Pashupatinath (handled with age-appropriate context from our guides), monks circumambulating Boudhanath at dawn, and potters still working traditional foot-wheel wheels in Bhaktapur's Pottery Square.

Nepal has direct flight connections from most major Asian hub cities — Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Dubai, Delhi, Mumbai, Hong Kong, Doha, Guangzhou — making the international journey accessible from most parts of the world without long layovers. Visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport takes 15 to 30 minutes for the whole family at the same counter, and children under 10 are sometimes waived from the visa fee (confirm at the counter on arrival). The Nepal visa process is one of the least complicated in Asia for international families.

For families with children interested in wildlife, Chitwan National Park is the standout reason to visit Nepal beyond the temples. It holds one of the highest concentrations of one-horned rhinoceros and Bengal tigers in Asia — 752 rhinos and 128 tigers in 952 square kilometers of subtropical lowland forest. A morning jeep safari with a trained naturalist, a dugout canoe ride along the Rapti River where gharial crocodiles bask on the sandbanks, and the Elephant Breeding Center where baby elephants can be observed at close range: these are experiences that leave a lasting impression on children of any age. Families who have done safaris in East Africa often say the Chitwan experience is more intimate, more accessible, and more affordable.

What Families Love Most: Chitwan National Park

Chitwan National Park is consistently the highlight of this tour for families, and it tends to be particularly memorable for children aged 5-15. The park, established in 1973, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site covering 952 square kilometers of subtropical lowland forest, grassland, and riverine habitat in Nepal's Terai region. The park sits at 100 to 415 meters above sea level — significantly warmer than Kathmandu — and receives a mix of flat jeep-accessible terrain and dense forest that makes it Nepal's premier wildlife viewing destination.

The one-horned rhinoceros is the species that makes the strongest impression on children in Chitwan. With a population of 752 individuals in the park as of the 2024 census (one of the two highest-density rhino habitats in the world, alongside Kaziranga in India), rhino sightings on jeep safaris are almost guaranteed in the grassland sections of the northern park. These are large animals — a fully grown one-horned rhino weighs 1,800 to 2,700 kg and stands 1.5 to 1.8 metres at the shoulder. Seeing one at 20 to 30 metres distance from an open jeep, with a trained naturalist guide explaining its behavior and biology, is a hands-on wildlife education that no classroom can replicate.

The Bengal tiger population in Chitwan stands at approximately 128 individuals, making sightings possible but not guaranteed. Tiger probability on morning safaris runs approximately 25 to 40% depending on the season — higher in the dry months (October to March) when tall grasses are cut and visibility improves. Our naturalist guides read tracks, pugmarks and alarm calls from deer and birds to locate tiger activity. Even when a tiger is not seen directly, the naturalist's teaching process around tiger tracking is itself a valuable safari experience for children. Alongside rhino and tiger, the park holds wild Asian elephant, sloth bear, leopard, gaur (the world's largest bovine, weighing up to 1,000 kg), sambar deer, spotted deer (chital), four-horned antelope and wild boar — a full safari docket.

The dugout canoe ride on the Rapti River is the calmest, most accessible wildlife activity in the park and universally popular with children. Traditional wooden canoes paddled by local boatmen move slowly downstream along the park boundary for 45 to 60 minutes. Mugger crocodiles bask on the southern sandbanks throughout the year. Gharial crocodiles — critically endangered globally but with a healthy recovering population in the Narayani-Rapti system — lie in the deeper channels. The Rapti also holds Gangetic river dolphins, seen occasionally in the river bends. Over 100 bird species are visible from the water level, including multiple kingfisher species, storks, herons, eagles and cormorants. The calm water makes this activity safe and comfortable for children of all ages. We provide life jackets for all children under 12. For full details of our Chitwan jungle safari program, see the activity page.

Packing Guide for Nepal Family Travel

The 10-day Nepal Family Tour moves through three climate zones: Kathmandu (temperate, 1,400m, 15 to 28°C), Pokhara (warm subtropical, 884m, 18 to 32°C), and Chitwan (hot subtropical lowland, 100 to 415m, 25 to 38°C in peak season). Packing light and layering smartly is the best approach for the whole family.

Clothing: Light, breathable clothing for Chitwan — neutral or khaki colors are recommended for safari (avoid bright red, orange or white which can draw animal attention). One warm fleece or light down jacket per person for Kathmandu evenings and the 4:30 AM Sarangkot departure. A packable waterproof shell is useful in spring and shoulder months. Comfortable walking shoes (not hiking boots — no trekking on this tour). Sandals for evenings. A wide-brim hat and UV-protective sunglasses for all outdoor activities. UV50+ sunscreen.

For children specifically: Insect repellent with DEET for Chitwan (essential, particularly at dawn and dusk in the jungle). Small daypack per child (15 to 20 litres) so they carry their own water bottle, snack and camera. Rehydration salts (one sachet per day, especially for the first two days of adjustment). Any prescription medication the child takes regularly brings a 30% larger supply than needed in case of travel delays. A small activity book or tablet for the longer drives (Kathmandu to Pokhara is 6 hours, Pokhara to Chitwan is 4 to 5 hours). Motion sickness medication if your children are prone to car sickness on winding mountain roads.

Documents and money: 2 passport-sized photos per person for the Nepal visa-on-arrival form. USD cash for the visa fee ($30 per person for 15 days, $50 for 30 days — bring exact or close amounts as change can be limited at the airport counters). A small USD or EUR float for the first day before reaching a Kathmandu currency exchange. Travel insurance documents for every family member. Emergency contact list in printed form separate from phones.

Nepal Visa for Families in 2026

Nepal offers a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) for citizens of most countries. The entire family can apply at the same immigration counter together. The standard process: collect the arrival form on the plane or download and pre-fill it from the Nepal immigration portal before departure, proceed to the visa counter on arrival (before the main immigration hall), pay the fee and submit two passport photos per person, receive visa stamps, then proceed through immigration. Total processing time for a family of four is typically 20 to 35 minutes.

Visa fees: USD 30 per person for a 15-day single entry visa, USD 50 per person for a 30-day single entry visa. Children under 10 years old are often waived from the visa fee at the discretion of the immigration officer — this is not a guaranteed exemption but is frequently applied. Bring USD cash in denominations that allow you to pay exact amounts per person; card payment is accepted at most counters but can be slow and sometimes fails. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date. Citizens of India do not need a visa. Citizens of China must arrange a visa at a Nepal embassy before travel. Citizens of SAARC nations have reduced or waived fee arrangements depending on nationality.

We help all families with the visa process — your guide will brief you on exactly what to expect at the counter before you land, and if any issue arises on arrival, our Kathmandu office is reachable by WhatsApp 24 hours a day. We recommend applying for the 30-day visa even for a 10-day tour, as the USD 20 difference per person is minor and the 30-day window gives you full flexibility if your travel plans shift.

Accommodation for Families

All hotels on the 10-day family tour offer family rooms or connecting room arrangements. In Kathmandu, we use comfortable 3-star hotels in the Thamel area with outdoor spaces, in-house restaurants and swimming pools — particularly useful for children who need to burn energy after a long flight or a full day of temple sightseeing. In Pokhara, lakeside 3-star hotels with views toward Phewa Lake and the Annapurna range, where the outdoor setting does a great deal of the work of keeping children engaged.

In Chitwan, the jungle lodge accommodation in Sauraha is specifically designed for the outdoor experience. Rooms are comfortable with en-suite bathrooms and hot water, set in a garden compound that gives children space to move freely in the evenings. The open-air dining area at most lodges faces the garden, where fireflies are visible at night in October and November. The lodge compound is fenced — no wildlife access to the accommodation area — but the sounds of the jungle are present throughout the stay.

When booking, tell us the ages and number of your children. We arrange the accommodation configuration that works best for your family group — whether that is a large family room, two connected standard rooms, or a combination. We can also request ground-floor rooms for families with very young children or mobility considerations. Hotel upgrades to 4-star properties in Kathmandu and Pokhara are available at a supplement if preferred.

Tour Extensions and Customization

The 10-day itinerary is a strong self-contained Nepal experience, but we customize every tour at no extra modification charge. For families who want more time in Nepal, the most natural extensions are: adding Lumbini (birthplace of the Buddha, 4 hours from Chitwan, 1 to 2 extra days) as a cultural and historical addition; adding a day at Manakamana Temple by cable car on the return drive from Chitwan to Kathmandu (a 10-minute cable car ride over the Trishuli River gorge, very popular with children); or extending Pokhara by one night to add the World Peace Pagoda hike or optional paragliding for older children and teenagers.

For families with teenagers who want a trekking component, we can attach the Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara as an add-on for fit family members while others continue the standard tour program. The full 12-day Nepal Highlights Tour (see our 12-day Nepal tour page) is a natural step up for families who have a few extra days available. Use our customization page or contact us directly to discuss your family's specific travel dates and preferences.

Overview

Local Guide Note — Sunil Tiwari, Trekking Guide, Next Trip Nepal: I have led family groups through Nepal with children from age 7 upward and the pace difference from a standard tour is significant across every day. We build 90-minute rest windows into every family tour day, schedule all Jeep safaris before 07:00 am for the best wildlife activity, and confirm hot water and air conditioning at every hotel before every booking.

Live Trail and Permit Status

Permits required: Chitwan NP entry permit (NPR 2,000) for jungle safari component. No other trekking permits required.
Current rule: All family itinerary segments operate on road and lodge basis. No trekking zones are entered. Suitable from age 7 upward with no altitude restrictions.
Trail status: Not applicable (family tour circuit). Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan road-based itinerary.
Entry point: Kathmandu arrival point. All transport by private vehicle with child-suitable seating throughout.
Verified by Next Trip Nepal operations team, June 2026

Critical Safety and Logistics

No trekking permits required for Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan itineraries. Chitwan National Park entry permit (NPR 2,000 per person) applies for the jungle safari component.
Kathmandu to Pokhara by road: 180 km, 7 hours by private vehicle. Internal flight available: 30 minutes, USD 90 to 150 depending on season.
Chitwan National Park jungle activities conducted with government-licensed naturalist guides. All wildlife Jeep safaris and canoe trips depart from the designated park zone.

The 10 Days Nepal Family Tour is the itinerary we recommend most often when a family with children contacts us and asks what to do in Nepal for the first time. It covers the three destinations that define Nepal — the ancient temple cities of the Kathmandu Valley, the lakeside mountain setting of Pokhara, and the wildlife habitat of Chitwan National Park — in a schedule designed specifically for families traveling with children. There is no high altitude, no trekking, no physical challenge beyond normal walking. The highest point on the entire tour is Sarangkot viewpoint above Pokhara at 1,592 metres, well below the 2,500-metre threshold where altitude sickness becomes a realistic concern. All transport is by private vehicle. The guide is with you for all 10 days. The pace is flexible — we slow down or speed up based on how the family is feeling each day.

The Kathmandu Valley has been continuously inhabited for over 2,000 years, and its concentration of living temples, royal squares and Buddhist monasteries is without parallel in South Asia. We cover five of the seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the valley across two full days of sightseeing. Pashupatinath Temple on the Bagmati River — the most important Hindu pilgrimage site in Nepal and the largest Shiva temple complex in South Asia — is where your guide will give your family its first real introduction to Hindu culture in practice. The morning aarti ritual, the river ghats, the sadhus in meditation: these are not staged demonstrations, they are daily religious life in Nepal, and children encounter them with a context and curiosity that is different from what adults experience. Our guides are trained to explain the cremation practices at Pashupatinath in ways that are honest, respectful and age-appropriate for children from about eight years old upward.

Boudhanath Stupa is consistently the highlight of the Kathmandu days for younger children. The stupa's outer circuit has a full ring of prayer wheels that children can spin as they walk, which is both permitted and encouraged. The open courtyard around the stupa is wide enough for children to move freely while parents observe the Buddhist monasteries and butter lamp shrines that line the circumambulation path. The Tibetan community around Boudhanath is welcoming to foreign visitors and children in particular. Swayambhunath — the Monkey Temple — is the other guaranteed family favourite. The resident population of rhesus macaque monkeys lives freely on the hilltop complex and approaches visitors at close range throughout the day. The 365 stone steps up the eastern face of the hill are manageable for children from about age 5 upward. For families with very young children or mobility considerations, the road access to the top of the hill allows direct vehicle access.

Pokhara is the natural midpoint of the tour — calmer than Kathmandu, centred on Phewa Lake, with the Annapurna massif rising directly to the north. The Sarangkot sunrise is the activity most families remember from Pokhara: a 4:30 AM departure from the hotel, a 45-minute drive up the ridge to 1,592 metres, and a panorama of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Manaslu and Machhapuchhre in a single sweep as the sun rises over the hills to the east. Children who were reluctant to get up at 4:30 AM are invariably glad they did by 6:15 AM. The afternoon in Pokhara is spent on the lake — rowboating on Phewa Lake with Machhapuchhre (6,993m) visible across the water is one of those experiences that sits in the background of a family's memory of Nepal for years. Davis Falls and Gupteshwor Cave — an underground cave from which you can look up at the base of the waterfall — are reliable hits with children of all ages.

Chitwan is the reason many families book this tour specifically. Chitwan National Park holds approximately 752 one-horned rhinoceros (one of the two highest-density rhino populations in the world) and approximately 128 Bengal tigers in 952 square kilometres of subtropical forest and grassland. The two-day safari program on this tour includes a morning jeep safari, an afternoon jeep safari, a dugout canoe ride on the Rapti River, a guided jungle walk with a trained naturalist, an elephant bathing visit at the Khorsor Elephant Breeding Center, and a Tharu cultural dance evening at the lodge. Families with children aged 5 to 15 typically report Chitwan as the single best day of the 10-day tour. The naturalist guide adjusts the explanation of wildlife biology and behavior for the age range of the group — children leave with a genuine understanding of conservation, habitat and the specific pressures facing tigers and rhinos in the 21st century.

The Elephant Breeding Center at Khorsor, 1.5 kilometres east of Sauraha village, is a separate activity from the jungle safari that deserves special mention for families. The center breeds domesticated Asian elephants for conservation and park management work. Afternoon visits (3:00 PM to 5:00 PM daily) coincide with the elephants' river bathing time — a routine that involves young calves as well as adult animals. Children can observe the elephant-mahout relationship, see calves born at the facility, and understand the conservation challenge facing Asian elephants in Nepal and across South Asia. It is one of the most direct and positive human-animal encounters available on this tour.

The tour price starts at USD 1,300 per person for two adults, with child rates available depending on age. The package covers all accommodation with daily breakfast, your licensed English-speaking guide for the full 10 days, private vehicle and driver for all transfers and city touring, all entrance fees to UNESCO heritage sites and Chitwan National Park, the full Chitwan safari package, Sarangkot transfer for sunrise, and all government taxes. International flights, Nepal visa fees, travel insurance, personal meals outside included breakfasts, tips, and optional activities are not included. We arrange everything else. Contact our Kathmandu team or check our Pokhara destination page for more detail on each city.

How to Book the 10 Days Nepal Family Tour 2026

1Choose Your Trip. First, choose the 10 Days Nepal Family Tour 2026 package that matches your travel plan, budget, and travel style.

2Check Availability. Go to the Availability section on this trip page. There you can see our departure dates for different months.

3Group Departure or Private Trip. Join one of our group departures, or choose a private trip for more flexibility, personal care, and your own travel date.

4Customize If Needed. Want to change the itinerary, add extra days, upgrade transport or accommodation, or include a porter? Contact us directly.

5Contact Us. Reach us anytime on WhatsApp at +977 9869225929 or email nexttripnepal@gmail.com.

6Book Your Trip. Choose your package and date, then book. No advance payment is required. Confirm first, pay after arrival in Nepal.

7Use the Booking Box. On a laptop or desktop, use the booking box on the right side of this page to book your trip or send us your question.

Highlights

Chitwan National Park jeep safari and dugout canoe — one-horned rhinos (752+ in the park), Bengal tigers, and over 500 bird species in a UNESCO World Heritage forest
Swayambhunath Monkey Temple — hundreds of resident rhesus macaques on the 365 stone steps to the hilltop stupa, loved by children of all ages
Sarangkot sunrise above Pokhara: Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Annapurna I (8,091m), Manaslu (8,163m) and Machhapuchhre (6,993m) in a single panorama
Elephant Breeding Center in Chitwan (Khorsor area) — afternoon elephant bathing, baby calves at close range, conservation education for children
Private vehicle and licensed English-speaking guide for all 10 days — no shared buses, flexible daily pace adjusted to your family
Rowboating on Phewa Lake in Pokhara with Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain) reflected in the water — calm and accessible for all ages
Five UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Kathmandu Valley covered across two days: Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath, Patan Durbar Square and Bhaktapur
Tharu cultural dance evening at the Chitwan jungle lodge — traditional dance and music from the indigenous Tharu community of the Terai lowlands
Optional Manakamana Cable Car on the return drive (10-minute aerial crossing of the Trishuli River gorge, very popular with children)
Family rooms and connecting rooms available at all hotels — 3-star with pools in Kathmandu and Pokhara, jungle lodge in Chitwan

Itinerary

Day
01

Arrive Kathmandu (1,400m) — Airport Pickup, Thamel Orientation, Welcome Dinner

Your guide from Next Trip Nepal meets you at the arrivals exit of Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) with a name sign. The drive to your hotel in Thamel takes 20 to 40 minutes depending on traffic. Thamel is Kathmandu's main tourist neighborhood and the most convenient base for the heritage sightseeing days ahead — everything from bookshops and gear stores to restaurants and currency exchange counters is within a 10-minute walk of most hotels.

After checking in and leaving your luggage, your guide takes the family on a 45-minute orientation walk through Thamel's main lanes — identifying the best currency exchange counters, the restaurants we recommend for families, the nearest pharmacy, and the general layout of the neighborhood. This walk also lets children start adjusting to the streets of Kathmandu at a gentle pace before the full heritage days begin. If any family members feel tired from travel, this walk can be shortened or skipped entirely.

In the evening, your guide joins you for a full 10-day program briefing at your hotel — reviewing the daily schedule, answering any questions, and adjusting any preferences for pace or activities. A welcome dinner follows at a local Nepali restaurant. We recommend the set dal bhat for the family's first meal in Nepal — Nepal's national dish of lentil soup, rice, vegetable curry and pickle, served with unlimited refills, is both nutritious and reliably mild enough for children. The guide will coach children on eating with the right hand in local style if they want to try. Overnight in Kathmandu at your 3-star hotel.

Dinner
Day
02

Kathmandu Heritage Day 1 — Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Patan Durbar Square

Start at Pashupatinath Temple by 7:30 AM. This is the most important Hindu pilgrimage site in Nepal — the largest Shiva temple complex in South Asia, situated on both banks of the Bagmati River in the Deupatan area, dating in its current form to 879 AD. Non-Hindu visitors walk freely through the outer courtyard and along both banks of the Bagmati River, where open-air cremation ghats are visible at close range. The morning aarti (ritual fire offering) takes place between 6:00 AM and 8:00 AM — incense, fire and the sound of bells while priests perform rituals and families gather by the river. Our guide introduces the cultural and religious context in age-appropriate terms for children, explaining the Hindu relationship with fire and the river as pathways of transition rather than focusing on the medical details of cremation. Sadhus (wandering holy men) meditate along the steps and can be photographed with a small donation.

Drive 5 minutes to Boudhanath Stupa — one of the world's largest Buddhist stupas, with a base diameter of 120 metres. The circumambulation path rings the stupa with prayer wheels that children are encouraged to spin as they walk (clockwise direction). The Tibetan Buddhist community around Boudhanath is warm and welcoming to foreign families. Butter lamp shrines, resident monks in maroon robes and the all-seeing Buddha eyes on the gilded spire above create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the valley. Allow 45 to 60 minutes here.

After lunch, drive 20 minutes to Patan Durbar Square. Patan was a separate medieval kingdom with its own Newari identity and architectural tradition. The Krishna Mandir (built 1637) is the square's centerpiece — a stone shikhara-style temple with exterior walls carved with scenes from the Mahabharata. The Patan Museum inside the square is considered the best museum in Nepal for Newari religious art. End the afternoon with a quick look at the Golden Temple (Hiranya Varna Mahavihar), a 12th-century Buddhist monastery a short walk from the square where monks perform evening prayers. Overnight in Kathmandu.

9 hour

Breakfast
Day
03

Kathmandu Heritage Day 2 — Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Bhaktapur, Free Afternoon

Begin with Swayambhunath Stupa at 7:00 AM — the Monkey Temple. The 365 stone steps up the eastern face of the hill pass through a resident population of rhesus macaque monkeys that are sacred and completely habituated to human presence. Children from about age 4 upward can handle the stairs comfortably, though the monkeys will attempt to steal any food, glasses or shiny objects within reach — brief your children before starting up. The main stupa at the top has the iconic all-seeing Buddha eyes on all four sides. The surrounding complex includes Hindu shrines, Tibetan monasteries, and a hilltop panorama over the Kathmandu Valley that is particularly clear in the early morning. For families with very young children or pushchairs, the road access from the west side of the hill allows vehicles to drive directly to the top.

Drive 13 kilometres east to Bhaktapur — Nepal's best-preserved medieval city. Bhaktapur's historic core has changed little since the 15th and 16th centuries. The Nyatapola Temple (built 1702) stands five stories and 30 metres high — the tallest religious structure in Nepal. The Pottery Square to the north of the main Durbar Square is an active working neighborhood where potters use traditional foot-wheel methods daily — children can watch the pottery being shaped and sometimes try a brief demo themselves. The 55-Window Palace and its carved peacock window are the architectural highlights. Bhaktapur charges a USD 15 entry fee for foreigners (included in the tour package).

Return to Thamel by mid-afternoon for free time. This is the best opportunity for souvenir shopping with children — Thamel has a wide selection of Nepal products at all price points. Singing bowls, prayer flags, Tibetan jewelry, hand-made paper notebooks, pashmina wraps and wooden toys are the most popular choices for children to bring home. Your guide can recommend specific shops for genuine local products. Overnight in Kathmandu.

9 hour

Breakfast
Day
04

Drive Kathmandu to Pokhara (884m) — 6 Hours, Bandipur Stop, Phewa Lake Afternoon

Depart from your Kathmandu hotel after an early breakfast at 7:00 AM to 7:30 AM. The drive to Pokhara follows the Prithvi Highway westward through the Trishuli River gorge — a scenic route through Nepal's mid-hills with the river visible below the road for much of the first two hours. The winding sections of the highway between Naubise and Mugling are the most curving parts of the journey; if any family members are prone to motion sickness, this is the section to be prepared for. We make rest stops whenever the family needs them.

We recommend a 30-minute detour to Bandipur, a hilltop Newari town perched above the highway midway between Kathmandu and Pokhara. Bandipur was bypassed by the Prithvi Highway in the 1970s and has remained largely unchanged since — a stone-paved main street, traditional merchant houses and a quiet atmosphere with views toward Manaslu and Himalchuli on clear days. It is a pleasant place for children to stretch their legs after 3 hours of driving and have tea before the second half of the journey. The main street takes 20 to 30 minutes to walk end to end.

Arrive in Pokhara by 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM. Check in to your lakeside hotel. After lunch, we head directly to Phewa Lake for a rowboat on the water — boats available at the ghats a short walk from most lakeside hotels, at NPR 500 per hour. The lake is calm and safe for children. Row out to the Barahi Temple, a small two-storey temple on a tiny island 200 metres from the main shore. On a clear afternoon, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain, 6,993m) is reflected in the lake surface. The lakeside area has a good selection of restaurants for a relaxed family dinner. Overnight in Pokhara.

7 hour

Breakfast + Dinner
Day
05

Sarangkot Sunrise, Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Cave, International Mountain Museum

4:30 AM wake-up. This is the earliest morning of the tour and the one that produces the most photographs. The drive from Lakeside to Sarangkot ridge takes 45 minutes on a steep winding road that your driver knows well. A 10 to 15-minute walk from the car park reaches the main viewing platform at 1,592 metres. Sunrise in October and November occurs between 6:00 AM and 6:30 AM; in December and January around 6:45 AM; in March to May around 5:45 AM to 6:15 AM. Dress warmly — it is noticeably colder at this altitude before sunrise, particularly between November and February.

The panorama from Sarangkot on a clear morning covers the full Annapurna Himalayan range: Dhaulagiri (8,167m) to the west, Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South (7,219m), Annapurna II (7,937m), Manaslu (8,163m) to the east, and Machhapuchhre (6,993m) directly ahead and closest. Most children who have traveled widely say the Sarangkot sunrise is the most impressive single view of the entire trip. After sunrise and photos, breakfast at a hilltop café before driving back to Pokhara.

Morning sightseeing: Davis Falls (Patale Chhango) — a waterfall that drops into a natural underground sinkhole, reliably dramatic even in the dry season. Directly opposite the falls entrance is Gupteshwor Cave, a sacred Shiva cave with a 3-kilometre length. The highlight for children is a shaft near the cave's entrance through which you look up at the base of Davis Falls from underground — one of those simple natural phenomena that children find genuinely impressive. The International Mountain Museum in Prithvi Narayan Campus covers the full history of all 14 eight-thousanders with original expedition equipment, summit photos and first-ascent maps. Allow 90 minutes for the museum. Free afternoon at the lakeside for swimming (some hotels have pools), paddleboard rental, or just relaxing by the lake. Overnight in Pokhara.

10 hour

Breakfast
Day
06

Drive Pokhara to Chitwan (415m) — 4 to 5 Hours, Elephant Bathing, Tharu Cultural Evening

Depart from Pokhara after breakfast, typically 7:30 AM. The drive to Chitwan follows the Prithvi Highway east to Mugling junction, then south on the road through Tanahu and Chitwan districts, descending from the mid-hills to the flat Terai lowlands. The temperature increases noticeably over the last 30 minutes of the drive as the road drops from the hills to the subtropical plain. Arrive in Sauraha village — the main tourism gateway on the northern boundary of Chitwan National Park — by midday to 1:00 PM.

Check in to your jungle lodge. Sauraha has accommodation ranging from basic guesthouses to comfortable eco-lodges. Our package uses an established lodge with a garden compound, en-suite rooms, hot water, an outdoor dining area, and space for children to move around freely in the evenings. The lodge is fenced — no wildlife access to the accommodation area — but you can hear the jungle sounds at night, including sometimes the distant calls of peacocks or spotted deer alarm calls that signal predator activity in the park.

Afternoon program: transfer by jeep 1.5 kilometres east to the Khorsor Elephant Breeding and Conservation Center. The center breeds domesticated Asian elephants for conservation and park operations. The afternoon bathing session (3:00 PM to 5:00 PM) is the most popular visitor activity — mahouts lead the elephants to the Budhi Rapti River where they bathe and play in the water while calves from the breeding facility splash alongside. Children can watch at very close range from the riverbank. The center holds approximately 50 to 60 elephants including young calves born at the facility. Evening at the lodge: after dinner, the lodge arranges a Tharu cultural dance performance — a 45-minute program of traditional dances from the Tharu people, the indigenous community who have lived in the Chitwan lowlands for centuries. Overnight at Chitwan jungle lodge.

7 hour

Breakfast + Dinner
Day
07

Full Day Chitwan Safari — Jungle Walk, Canoe Ride, Afternoon Jeep Safari

5:30 AM wake-up for the guided jungle walk — the best activity in Chitwan for direct wildlife encounter on foot. A trained park naturalist leads the family through the buffer zone and forest edge, walking 2 to 3 hours. One-horned rhinos are commonly encountered on foot in the grassland sections. The naturalist positions the family correctly when an animal is close, reads the rhino's body language, and coaches the group on how to behave. This is genuine wildlife at real proximity — not a distant or staged experience. The morning forest walk also produces the highest bird count of the entire Chitwan stay, as the forest is most active in the first two hours after dawn.

Return to the lodge for breakfast at 8:30 AM. Rest until 10:00 AM, then the dugout canoe ride on the Rapti River — 45 to 60 minutes downstream in traditional wooden boats paddled by local boatmen. Mugger crocodiles and gharial crocodiles bask on the sandbanks year-round. The Rapti also supports Gangetic river dolphins, occasionally visible in the deeper bends. Over 100 bird species are identifiable from water level. We provide life jackets for all children under 12. The water is calm and the activity is safe for children of any age. The naturalist identifies species from the boat and explains their ecology to children in real time.

Lunch at the lodge. Jeep safari 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM: open-top 4x4 vehicles enter Chitwan National Park through the Sauraha gate and cover the northern grassland and forest zones. One-horned rhino sightings are almost guaranteed in the grassland section. Wild spotted deer (chital), sambar deer, wild boar, langur monkeys, and various raptors are standard sightings. The probability of a Bengal tiger encounter on an afternoon safari is approximately 25 to 35% depending on season. The naturalist explains animal tracks, pugmarks and alarm call behavior throughout the drive. Children receive a simplified naturalist briefing from the guide before entering the park. Return to lodge at sunset. Overnight at Chitwan.

10 hour

Breakfast + Dinner
Day
08

Dawn Jeep Safari, Birdwatching Tour, Crocodile Breeding Center

5:00 AM departure for the dawn jeep safari — the optimal time for tiger, sloth bear and leopard activity. These species are most active in the low-light period between 5:00 AM and 8:00 AM. The dawn safari covers different park zones from the previous afternoon to maximize wildlife variety. Early morning safaris in October and November can be cold in the open vehicle (12 to 18°C at that hour) — bring a warm jacket and a hat for children. The naturalist explains animal behavioral patterns and why dawn and dusk are the most productive observation windows.

Return for breakfast at 8:30 AM. The morning birdwatching tour with the lodge naturalist covers the grassland and forest-edge habitats around Sauraha, which support over 500 bird species. Target species include the Bengal florican (critically endangered globally, with a significant population in Chitwan), grey-headed fish eagle, giant hornbill, sarus crane, lesser adjutant stork, bay-backed shrike and multiple kingfisher species. Children who are interested in birds can use binoculars borrowed from the lodge and work through a simplified field guide with the naturalist. Even children who are not particularly interested in birds typically find the giant hornbill — a large black and white bird with a bright orange bill and a loud wing beat — impressive when seen at close range.

Afternoon visit to the Crocodile Breeding Center in Sauraha village, established to breed gharial crocodiles for release into the Narayani-Rapti river system. The facility holds gharials of various ages from hatchlings to adults awaiting river release. Seeing a gharial hatchling the size of a pencil case next to a 4-metre adult is a striking size contrast for children, and the conservation story behind the program — gharials were near extinction in Nepal in the 1970s, now over 200 individuals are in the river — is a positive conservation narrative. Free time in Sauraha village in the late afternoon before a final lodge dinner. Overnight at Chitwan.

9 hour

Breakfast + Dinner
Day
09

Drive Chitwan to Kathmandu — 6 Hours, Optional Manakamana Cable Car, Farewell Dinner

After breakfast, departure from the Chitwan jungle lodge. The drive back to Kathmandu takes approximately 5 to 6 hours on the East-West Highway north to Mugling junction and then the Prithvi Highway east toward Kathmandu. The road climbs from the flat Terai back into the mid-hills, reversing the temperature and landscape transition from Day 6 in the other direction.

Optional detour at Manakamana: approximately 2 hours from Chitwan (about halfway to Kathmandu), the Manakamana Cable Car ascends 1,302 metres from the Trishuli River gorge to the Manakamana Temple on a hilltop above. The cable car ride takes 10 minutes each way and is the highlight for most children on the return drive — the cabins cross the deep Trishuli River gorge with the river visible far below and green hills rising on all sides. The Manakamana Temple at the top is an active Hindu pilgrimage site. Cable car cost: approximately USD 7 to 10 per person return, at your own expense. Total time including the ride up, brief temple visit and ride down: approximately 45 to 60 minutes.

Arrive in Kathmandu by 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Check in to your return hotel. The evening is free for any final Thamel shopping — items not bought on Day 3, additional pashmina or spices, or last-minute gifts. We recommend a farewell dinner at a restaurant with live Nepali folk music — several restaurants in Thamel have evening cultural performances alongside dinner. Your guide will recommend the current best option for the family and can book a table. This is a good opportunity for children to hear the sarangi (a traditional bowed string instrument) and madal (hand drum) in a relaxed setting. Overnight in Kathmandu.

7 hour

Breakfast + Dinner
Day
10

Final Morning in Kathmandu — Shopping, Optional Spa, Airport Departure

The final morning is free until your airport transfer time, which your guide will confirm the evening before based on your flight departure. Most international flights from Kathmandu depart between 3:00 AM and 9:00 AM or in the afternoon between 2:00 PM and 6:00 PM — check your specific flight to plan the morning accordingly. For afternoon departures, you have most of the morning available.

Final Thamel shopping is the most common morning activity. Children who saw things on Day 3 and held off buying now have their last opportunity. The main categories: singing bowls (USD 20 to 200 for a quality piece — check that it rings clearly and sustains for at least 20 seconds when struck), thanka paintings (traditional Tibetan Buddhist art on cotton, USD 30 to 200 for smaller pieces), pashmina scarves (USD 40 to 120 for genuine cashmere — anything under USD 20 is almost certainly a synthetic blend), dried spice packets (timur pepper, Himalayan pink salt, Nepali tea from Ilam) and hand-made paper products (notebooks, cards, lampshades). Your guide can direct the family to shops known for honest pricing and genuine products.

For parents while children supervise the shopping: a traditional Ayurvedic or Thai massage in Thamel runs USD 25 to 45 for 90 minutes and is a worthwhile recovery treatment after 10 days of touring. Several reputable spa facilities operate in Thamel and the Lazimpat area. If time allows and your flight is late afternoon, the Kopan Monastery north of Boudhanath (20 minutes by taxi) has a hilltop setting with valley views and morning prayer sessions accessible to respectful visitors. Airport transfer departs 3 hours before your international flight. Your guide and driver see the family to the airport departure terminal. Your 10 Days Nepal Family Tour concludes here. Thank you for traveling with Next Trip Nepal.

4 hour

Breakfast

Cost Includes

Airport pickup and drop-off in Kathmandu (Tribhuvan International Airport)
3-star hotel accommodation with family rooms or connecting rooms: 3 nights Kathmandu, 2 nights Pokhara (lakeside), 2 nights Chitwan jungle lodge; 1 final night Kathmandu on return
Daily breakfast at all hotels and the Chitwan jungle lodge
All entrance fees: UNESCO heritage sites in Kathmandu Valley, Bhaktapur Durbar Square (USD 15 foreigners), Patan Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, Changu Narayan
Chitwan National Park entry fee and full safari package: morning and afternoon jeep safari, dugout canoe ride on Rapti River, guided jungle walk with naturalist, elephant bathing visit at Khorsor Center, Tharu cultural evening
Licensed English-speaking NTB guide for the full 10 days
Private vehicle and experienced driver for all transfers and city sightseeing (airport to hotel, all Kathmandu sightseeing, Kathmandu to Pokhara, Pokhara to Chitwan, Chitwan to Kathmandu)
Sarangkot viewpoint transfer for sunrise (Day 5)
International Mountain Museum entry in Pokhara
Bottled water in the vehicle during all road transfers
All government taxes and VAT
24/7 WhatsApp support from Next Trip Nepal Kathmandu office throughout the tour

Cost Excludes

International airfare to and from Kathmandu
Nepal visa fee (USD 30 for 15-day, USD 50 for 30-day visa on arrival; children under 10 sometimes waived)
Travel insurance (strongly recommended for all family members, particularly for any optional trek add-ons)
Personal meals outside included daily breakfasts (budget USD 15 to 25 per adult, USD 8 to 15 per child per day for lunch and dinner)
Tips for guide and driver (guideline: USD 10 to 20 per day for guide, USD 8 to 12 per day for driver)
Optional paragliding in Pokhara (USD 80 to 120 per person, teenagers 14+ typically accepted)
Domestic flights if chosen instead of road transfers (Kathmandu to Pokhara approx. USD 90 to 120 per person)
Optional Manakamana Cable Car (USD 7 to 10 per person return)
Children personal snacks, comfort items and entertainment for long drives
Any personal medical expenses or costs arising from travel disruption, weather delays or emergencies

Tour Highlights & Comparison

Why Families Choose This Tour

Zero trekking — all sightseeing at valley level or by vehicle
Chitwan jungle safari designed for children of all ages, including toddlers
Elephant bathing and canoe ride are the highlights most children remember
Sarangkot sunrise at 1,592m — the highest point on the entire itinerary
Private guide experienced with families for all 10 days
3 nights in Chitwan for maximum wildlife probability across two safari sessions
Family rooms pre-requested at all 3-star hotels on the circuit
Pace adjusts to your youngest traveler — rest stops on all driving days
Rowboat on Phewa Lake and Bandipur hill-town stop included
Life jackets provided for children on the Rapti River canoe ride

10-Day Family Tour vs 12-Day Nepal Highlights Tour

What You Get	10-Day Family Tour	12-Day Highlights Tour
Kathmandu heritage days	2 full days	2 full days
Pokhara nights	2 nights	3 nights
Chitwan nights	3 nights	2 nights
Sarangkot sunrise	✓	✓
Nagarkot sunrise	✗	✓
Elephant bathing, Chitwan	✓	✓
Canoe ride on Rapti River	✓	✓
Safari sessions in Chitwan	2 (afternoon + dawn)	1 jeep safari
Phewa Lake rowboat	✓	✓
World Peace Pagoda, Pokhara	✗	✓
Bandipur hill-town stop	✓	✓
Pace suited for children	Yes — designed for families	Adult-focused pace
Recommended for	Families with children	Couples and adult groups

Day-by-Day Summary

Day	Location	Main Activities	Overnight
1	Kathmandu	Airport pickup, Thamel orientation, welcome dinner	Kathmandu
2	Kathmandu	Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Patan Durbar Square	Kathmandu
3	Kathmandu	Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Bhaktapur, shopping	Kathmandu
4	Kathmandu to Pokhara	Drive via Bandipur, Phewa Lake rowboat, lakeside dinner	Pokhara
5	Pokhara	Sarangkot sunrise, Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Cave, Mountain Museum	Pokhara
6	Pokhara to Chitwan	Drive to Chitwan, elephant bathing, Tharu cultural evening	Sauraha
7	Chitwan	Jungle walk, canoe ride, afternoon jeep safari	Sauraha
8	Chitwan	Dawn jeep safari, birdwatching, crocodile breeding center	Sauraha
9	Chitwan to Kathmandu	Drive via optional Manakamana cable car, farewell dinner	Kathmandu
10	Kathmandu	Free morning, final shopping, airport departure	Departure

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for young children, including toddlers and children under 5?

Yes. We run this itinerary regularly with children as young as 2 years old. The tour has no trekking, no altitude above 1,592 metres (the Sarangkot sunrise viewpoint), and no physically demanding activity that would exclude young children. The main sightseeing days in Kathmandu involve walking on paved or stone-paved surfaces through heritage areas, all of which are manageable with a stroller or carrier. The Pokhara lake rowboat is calm water and takes a maximum of 60 minutes. Chitwan safari jeeps have seating suitable for children of any age. We adjust the pace on all walking days to match the family's youngest member. If you have a child under 2 who will be in a carrier, please let us know so we can confirm specific temple steps and surface conditions ahead of your dates.

What is the minimum age for the Chitwan jungle safari and wildlife activities?

There is no formal minimum age for the Chitwan jeep safari or canoe ride. Children of all ages join these activities regularly. For the guided jungle walk on foot, we recommend children be at least 4 to 5 years old and able to follow simple instructions quietly from the guide. The naturalist needs the group to stop and stay calm when a rhino is close, so very young toddlers who cannot yet understand verbal instructions may find the guided walk less suitable. The elephant bathing at the breeding center has no age restriction. If you have a child under 3 who might find the open jeep uncomfortable for 3 hours at a stretch, we recommend bringing a compact travel blanket and a familiar comfort item, and we build in a mid-safari rest stop.

Does this tour involve any high altitude, trekking, or strenuous walking?

No. This is a cultural and wildlife tour with no trekking component. The highest point on the entire itinerary is the Sarangkot sunrise viewpoint at 1,592 metres, reached by vehicle with a 10 to 15-minute walk on a paved path. Kathmandu city itself sits at 1,400 metres, so the altitude gain at Sarangkot is minimal. Chitwan National Park is at 415 metres above sea level. The Kathmandu heritage walking days involve 4 to 6 hours of walking across 3 to 4 sites, on stone-paved or paved surfaces, with your vehicle available at each site for anyone who needs a rest. There are no trails, no uphill treks, and no overnight stays above 1,600 metres anywhere on the itinerary.

What type of accommodation is used and will we have family rooms?

The package uses 3-star hotels throughout with en-suite bathrooms, hot water, air conditioning or heating, WiFi, and daily breakfast. In Kathmandu and Pokhara, we book hotels in the main tourist districts (Thamel and Lakeside respectively) where restaurants, pharmacies, and convenience services are within walking distance. In Chitwan, we use a jungle lodge in Sauraha village with a garden compound, en-suite rooms and outdoor dining. Family rooms or interconnecting rooms for 2 adults and 2 or more children are available at all properties we use and are standard on family bookings. Please specify your family configuration when confirming so we pre-request the correct room type. Upgrades to 4-star or boutique hotels are available on request with a supplement.

What does the tour price include and exclude?

Included: airport pickup and drop-off, all accommodation, daily breakfast, welcome dinner Day 1 and farewell dinner Day 9, private air-conditioned vehicle with driver, private English-speaking guide for all 10 days, all entrance fees (including Bhaktapur USD 15 fee), Chitwan National Park fees, elephant breeding center, jungle walk, canoe ride, jeep safari, elephant bathing, cultural shows, and all government taxes. Excluded: international flights, Nepal visa fees (USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, obtained on arrival at Kathmandu airport), travel insurance (required), personal expenses, tips, souvenirs, alcoholic beverages, optional activities such as the Manakamana cable car, and meals not listed as included.

What is the best time of year to do this family tour?

The two best seasons are October to November and March to May. October and November offer the clearest skies of the year with exceptional Himalayan views at Sarangkot and concentrated Chitwan wildlife near water sources after the monsoon. March to May is the pre-monsoon spring season with pleasant temperatures of 20 to 28 degrees Celsius, rhododendron flowering in the hills, and good visibility. June to September is Nepal's monsoon season with heavy rain, occasional road flooding, and mountain views often obscured by cloud. December and January are cold but clear, with Kathmandu temperatures dropping to 2 to 7 degrees Celsius overnight. We run this itinerary year-round and can advise on trade-offs for your specific dates.

How long is the drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara and is it safe with children?

The drive is approximately 200 kilometres and takes 6 to 7 hours including a mid-journey stop. We depart early at 7:00 AM to 7:30 AM to avoid peak traffic. The road is a sealed national highway. The most winding section is between Naubise and Mugling in the first two hours. If family members are prone to car sickness, sit toward the front of the vehicle and keep windows slightly open. Our drivers are experienced on this route and make rest stops whenever the family needs them. For families who prefer to avoid a full day of driving, we offer a Pokhara flight option at USD 85 to 100 per person one-way as an upgrade.

Can we fly to Pokhara instead of driving?

Yes. Yeti Airlines and Buddha Air operate multiple daily flights between Kathmandu and Pokhara. The flight takes approximately 25 to 30 minutes and costs USD 85 to 100 per person each way. We can arrange the Kathmandu-to-Pokhara flight as an upgrade. Some families fly one way and drive the other to keep the Bandipur stop and Manakamana cable car option on the return. Note that mountain flights operate under visual flight rules and can be delayed or cancelled on days with poor visibility, typically in the monsoon season or January to February. We always have the ground vehicle on standby for flight days in case of cancellation.

How are children kept safe during wildlife activities in Chitwan?

Chitwan activities are conducted by trained naturalists who brief the family before each activity, explaining rhino behavior, how to respond if an animal approaches, and correct group positions. The canoe ride uses calm river sections and we provide life jackets for all children under 12 years old. Jeep safaris use park-approved open vehicles with fixed seating and experienced drivers who know when to stop and maintain safe distances. The guided jungle walk requires the most attentiveness from children, and the naturalist has full authority to redirect or abort the walk if conditions change. We follow that guidance without question. We have not had a safety incident with a child on any of our Chitwan activities.

What vaccinations or health preparations are recommended before the trip?

Consult your GP or a travel health clinic 6 to 8 weeks before travel for advice specific to your family's vaccination history. Standard recommendations for Nepal travel typically include ensuring routine vaccinations are current (MMR, DTP, varicella) and considering hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and rabies depending on your itinerary and vaccination records. For Chitwan specifically, Japanese encephalitis and malaria prophylaxis are sometimes recommended depending on season. Bring a family first-aid kit including a thermometer, oral rehydration salts, antihistamines, and any prescription medications. Use bottled water throughout. Hotel breakfast buffets at 3-star properties are safe. Avoid raw salads from street stalls, though most restaurant food in established tourism areas is reliably safe for families.

Can we extend this tour or add extra days?

Yes. Common additions for families include: a 2-day Nagarkot extension from Kathmandu, a hilltop resort town at 2,175 metres with Himalayan sunrise views and a forest nature walk; an additional Pokhara day with a longer lake boat ride, World Peace Pagoda, and the Annapurna Conservation Area museum; and a Lumbini day-trip from Chitwan (2 hours by road) to visit the birthplace of the Buddha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For families wanting a longer Nepal experience, a 12-day or 14-day itinerary incorporating these additions is available. Contact us for pricing and availability.

How does this 10-day family tour compare to the 12-day Nepal Highlights Tour?

Both tours cover the same geographic circuit of Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan, but differ significantly in depth and pace. The 10-day family tour is designed specifically for families with children, with a slower pace, activities chosen for child engagement (elephant bathing, canoe ride, lake rowboat), 3 nights in Chitwan for maximum wildlife exposure, and sufficient free time for children to process what they are seeing. The 12-day Highlights Tour adds Nagarkot, an extra Pokhara day with World Peace Pagoda, and more comprehensive Bhaktapur and Patan coverage. It suits couples and adult groups who want to maximize cultural sites and mountain views. For families with children under 12, we consistently recommend the 10-day tour for its pace and child-appropriate activities.

How far in advance do we need to book this tour?

For travel during peak season (October, November, and March), book at least 8 to 12 weeks in advance. This ensures preferred hotels with family-room allocations are available, and allows time to confirm Chitwan lodge rooms, which book quickly in October and November. For travel outside peak season (December to February and April to May), 4 to 6 weeks is generally sufficient. For last-minute inquiries within 2 weeks of travel, contact us directly and we will do our best to accommodate. To confirm your booking, we require a 30 percent deposit, with the balance due 30 days before the tour start date.

Is the guide English-speaking and experienced with families?

Yes. All guides assigned to family tours are fluent English speakers who have conducted this specific itinerary multiple times and have experience working with children of different ages. We do not assign a first-time guide to a family group. Your guide is a licensed government-certified tour guide registered with the Nepal Tourism Board and carries a first-aid kit and emergency contacts throughout the 10 days. Our guides provide explanations at a level that works for both adults and children simultaneously, using stories and comparisons that make history and ecology accessible to younger travelers. If your family speaks a language other than English, such as Hindi, French, German, Chinese, or Japanese, please ask us at the time of inquiry as we may be able to arrange a specialist guide depending on availability.

What is the policy if we need to cancel or reschedule?

Cancellations 45 or more days before the tour start date receive a full refund of the deposit. Cancellations 30 to 44 days before the start date incur a 25 percent cancellation fee. Cancellations 15 to 29 days before the start date incur a 50 percent cancellation fee. Cancellations within 14 days of the start date are non-refundable. Rescheduling to a different date within the same calendar year with at least 30 days notice is possible with a small administrative fee per person. We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers trip cancellation. Nepal-side events such as road closures, park shutdowns, or natural events that prevent the tour from operating result in a full refund of all amounts paid. Contact our Kathmandu office directly for any scheduling changes.