The short answer
Start with the main goal (Muktinath, Pashupatinath, Janakpur, Lumbini or Kailash), then add easy stops on the way. A simple route is Kathmandu, Pashupatinath, Janakpur, Lumbini, Pokhara and Muktinath, with 10 to 12 days.
Key facts
- Core route
- Kathmandu, Janakpur, Lumbini, Pokhara, Muktinath
- Days
- 10 to 12
- Best months
- Mar to May, Sep to Nov
- Planning
- Fix festival dates first
How it works
- Pick the anchorChoose the one place you cannot skip.
- Add the supporting stopsChoose places on the road, not detours.
- Check seasonsMuktinath and Kailash need specific months.
Insider tip
Seniors and families benefit from fewer long drives, so choose flights where possible, especially for Jomsom.
Avoid this
Do not set tight schedules around festival days. Crowds and road closures are common.
Related questions
Can I include Kailash?
Yes, but it is a separate yatra from Kathmandu, with its own season and permits.
Is a vegetarian-only trip possible?
Yes; ask your operator to confirm each meal stop.
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