Kathmandu Valley private one day tour with local expert guide
Active
6h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Flexible itinerary- time can be arranged as per your request.
1: (or choose any time on phone call after booking confirmation) Depart from the hotel visiting Old Durbar Square area for an hour.
2: Drive to Swayambhunath or Monkey Temple of 30 mins
3: Drive to Pashupatinath Temple tour of an hour with 30 -40 mins drive.
4: Short drive to Bouddhanath Stupa ‘Little Tibet’
5. Drive back to hotel and end of the Nepal One Day Tour.
Lunch hour in between the tour where our city guides will take you to nice and hygienic restaurants with great foods for your appetite.
A Guided Nepal One Day Tour includes guide, excellent condition cars-coach as per group size with healthy and cheerful driver with expert-professional tour guides.
Available options
Kathmandu Valley private one day tour with local expert guide
Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Local guide
Private tour
Air-conditioned vehicle
Transport by private vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
Kathmandu Nepal one day tour starts from your hotel in Kathmandu, where our city tour guides will accompany you around places of great interest of five to six hours with fascinating times around impressive places within the city.
As Kathmandu blessed with ancient historical palaces, religious monuments of both Hindu temples and Buddhist monasteries located side by side in perfect harmony, where you can observe wonderful sites as listed in World Heritage, a short drive to inner parts of Kathmandu city and visit places of great wonders of old Hanuman Dhoka (palace court yard).
The palace of Malla to late Shah Regime built during 5-6th Century, at present a museum where you can observe and gather knowledge and information of past royals.
From here visit Resident and Living quarter of famous Kumari regarded as Living-Goddess (a young girl picked before reaching puberty period, retires after reaching woman-wood with first period).
From here heading towards a famous Landmark of Kathmandu and Nepal at Swayambhunath old Stupa, a Buddhist Stupa or Chaitya of more than 2,600 years old with mystical eyes of Lord Buddha around four cardinal North-South-East and West, a nice spot and a monument with super panorama of Kathmandu city and its valley with views of snow-capped mountains.
After an interesting tour heading towards eastern side of Kathmandu city at holiest of all holy Hindu Temple of Pashupatinath, dedicated to Lord Shiva with masterpiece golden roofed and silver four sided doors with Phallus depicting Shiva.
Where thousands of pilgrims for Nepal and India visit this sacred temple, in the month of February as per Hindu auspicious time a great festival held called Shiva Ratri (tribute to Lord Shiva and its birth anniversary.
The place also holds as cremation and funeral place for Hindu, although non Hindu are not permitted inside the main temple premises, however one can watch the daily routine of local in religious ceremony.
From Pashupatinath our tour takes you to Bouddhanath Stupa / Chaitya, located north of Pashupatinath where you can witness Buddhist culture around Bouddhanath also called as ‘Little Tibet’ due to its Tibetan culture and origin of people that lives around.
A great white dome shaped Buddhist shrine known as Stupa or Chaitya believed to be the largest of this kind in Asia, this ancient colossal chhorten built in 6th Century A.D. by King Man Deb.
The Stupa encircled by shops, nice restaurants and markets of Tibetan products selling Buddhist items from all types of incense to prayer flags and Tibetan dresses, the Mahayana sect and faith of Buddhism which originated from Tibet in the 6-7th Centaury spread around Bhutan-Nepal-Sikkim and Ladakh in Northern India
What's not included
Food and drinks
All Fees and Taxes
Monument entry fees
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Kathmandu
Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is a vibrant blend of ancient history, rich culture, and stunning Himalayan scenery. Known as the 'City of Temples,' it's home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the iconic Swayambhunath Stupa and Pashupatinath Temple. The city offers a unique mix of traditional Newari architecture, bustling markets, and modern urban life.
Top Attractions
Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)
One of the most iconic landmarks in Kathmandu, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a Buddhist stupa perched on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. It's also home to many monkeys, hence the nickname.
Religious/Historical
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Pashupatinath Temple
One of the most sacred Hindu temples in the world, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located on the banks of the Bagmati River, it's a major pilgrimage site with a lively atmosphere, especially during festivals.
Religious
2-3 hours
Free for Hindus, NPR 1000 (USD 8) for non-Hindus
Boudhanath Stupa
One of the largest stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Boudhanath is a major center for Tibetan Buddhism. The surrounding area is filled with monasteries, shops, and cafes, creating a vibrant cultural hub.
Religious/Historical
2-3 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Kathmandu Durbar Square
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic square is the heart of the old city and features ancient palaces, temples, and courtyards. It's a living museum showcasing the city's rich history and Newari architecture.
Historical/Architectural
1-2 hours
NPR 1000 (USD 8) for foreigners
Bhaktapur Durbar Square
Located in the ancient city of Bhaktapur, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a well-preserved example of Newari architecture. It features beautiful temples, palaces, and courtyards, offering a glimpse into Nepal's royal history.
Historical/Architectural
Half-day trip
NPR 1500 (USD 12) for foreigners
Must-Try Local Dishes
Dal Bhat
A staple meal consisting of lentil soup (dal), rice (bhat), and vegetable curry (tarkari). Often served with pickles, salad, and sometimes meat.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian (can be made vegan by omitting ghee)
Momo
Steamed or fried dumplings filled with meat (buffalo, chicken, or pork) or vegetables, served with a spicy tomato-based sauce.
Snack/Appetizer
Vegetarian options available, can be made vegan
Sel Roti
A sweet, ring-shaped fried bread made from rice flour, sugar, and water, often served during festivals and celebrations.
Snack/Dessert
Vegetarian (may contain eggs in some recipes)
Gundruk
A fermented leafy green vegetable, often cooked with spices and served as a side dish or added to soups and stews.
Side Dish
Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free
Popular Activities
Trekking
Mountain biking
Paragliding
Rafting
Yoga and meditation retreats
Spa treatments
Café hopping
Gardening
Best Time to Visit
October to November and March to April
These months offer pleasant weather, clear skies, and excellent visibility for trekking and sightseeing. The city is lively with festivals and cultural events.
20-30°C (68-86°F)
68-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Nepali
- Widely spoken: English, Hindi, Newari, Maithili, Bhojpuri
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas
Currency
Nepalese Rupee (NPR)
Time Zone
Nepal Standard Time (NPT, UTC+5:45)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Kathmandu is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime, scams, and pickpocketing can occur, especially in tourist areas and crowded markets. Be cautious of your surroundings, keep valuables secure, and avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Use reputable tour operators and trekking agencies
- • Insist on using the meter when taking taxis
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
Getting there
By air
- Tribhuvan International Airport • 5 km (3 miles) from city center
By bus
Galkopul, Kalanki
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport, but they can be crowded and slow. Microbuses are smaller and more frequent.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Pathao, InDriver
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Thamel
Boudha
Patan (Lalitpur)
Bhaktapur
Day trips
Nagarkot
32 km (20 miles) from Kathmandu • Half-day to full-day trip
A picturesque hill station known for its stunning views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest on clear days. Nagarkot is also famous for its sunrise and sunset views.
Dhulikhel
30 km (19 miles) from Kathmandu • Half-day to full-day trip
A charming Newari town offering beautiful views of the Himalayas and historic temples. Dhulikhel is less touristy than Nagarkot but equally scenic.
Changunarayan
18 km (11 miles) from Kathmandu • Half-day trip
A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Changunarayan is one of the oldest Hindu temples in the Kathmandu Valley and is known for its intricate stone and wood carvings.
Festivals
Dashain • September/October (dates vary each year)
Tihar • October/November (dates vary each year)
Indra Jatra • September (dates vary each year)
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic Nepali phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
- Hire a local guide or join a group tour for a more immersive and informative experience, especially when visiting temples and historical sites
- Carry small denominations of Nepalese Rupees for small purchases and tips, as change may be limited
- Be prepared for power outages and slow internet, especially during peak hours and in rural areas
- Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun, as the high altitude and intense sunlight can cause dehydration and sunburn
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
