Hi
I have just recently returned from a 5 day short trip to Nepal, my timing was during the monsoon season but the weather did break and I manage to visit most places. The season in which you are planning to travel is the key to you fulfilling your dream as Nepal weather is variable and can quickly change.
As a solo traveller, I arranged Susan, a local private guide to meet me on arrival and travel with me during my stay, yes this is an additional costing but it is worth considering. Inter reaction with the local people is so much easier, her knowledge of historical sites to be visited and understanding of Nepean traditions help you to understand, relax and enjoy some of the wonders of Nepal.
Considered visiting Nagarkot, a sunrise rise with views so different to that of Sarankot, I would suggest overnighting here and then visit Bhakatapur on the way to or returning.
Advice from my short experience, do not to lock in your itinerary to tight, be flexible, expected travelling times to / from cannot always be guaranteed, as traffic or weather conditions can create major delays both on intercity/ country road systems and inter air travel especially between Kathmandu/ Pokhara/ Kathmandu.
If travelling by car, vehicles with A/C do help to restrict the normally high traffic pollution flumes.
Nepean’s whether Tourist Van/ Bus, Taxi, Heavy Transport or private drivers are all practising formula one recruits, with only one road rule in mind to get from A to B as quickly as possible. Crazy as it seems, did not see any accidents or road rage expressed.
Let Susan arrange your driver and assist in your choice of accommodation , you can then view places of interested without worrying if items or cases left in the vehicle, hotel will be safe whilst your sightseeing or transiting between different locations.
I have posted on the trip advisor forum see “Re Kathmandu Travel agency” comments and recommendation of my private guide, if you wish to obtain any more details or information about your planned adventure drop her an email as she is the best and a truly caring person.
Susan Manandhar
Mike