Kathmandu , Nepal

Kathmandu City Tour

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About this experience

Unlock Kathmandu’s soul! Explore sacred Pashupatinath, the majestic Boudhanath Stupa, ancient Durbar Square, and mystical Swayambhunath with an expert guide. Enjoy hassle-free transport, deep cultural insights, and unforgettable moments. Book now for an authentic Nepali adventure with Recreation Holidays! ️#KathmanduMagic

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Kathmandu City Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Transportation – Private vehicle with driver for city tour and hotel pickup/drop-off in Kathmandu.

Professional Guide – A licensed, English-speaking (or other preferred language)

Detailed itinerary

What You’ll Experience:

The Main Temple: A stunning pagoda-style structure with golden roofs and silver doors, where devotees offer prayers (only Hindus are allowed inside the inner sanctum).

Bagmati River Rituals: Witness open-air cremations along the ghats, a profound insight into Hindu death rites and the cycle of life.

Sadhus (Holy Men): Meet ascetic yogis covered in ash, meditating or blessing visitors—great for cultural photography.

Evening Aarti: A mesmerizing fire ceremony at dusk with chanting, incense, and oil lamps.

Unique Fact: Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this temple dates back to 400 AD.

What You’ll Experience:

The Great Stupa: Walk around the massive mandala-style stupa, spinning prayer wheels and soaking in the peaceful vibes.

Monasteries & Prayer Flags: Explore surrounding monasteries where monks chant, and colorful flags carry mantras into the wind.

Local Tibetan Culture: Sip butter tea in rooftop cafés, browse thangka paintings, and hear monks blow ceremonial horns.

Kora (Circumambulation): Join pilgrims circling the stupa clockwise, murmuring "Om Mani Padme Hum."

Unique Fact: Built in the 5th century, it’s a key stop for Tibetan refugees and spiritual seekers.

Stop 3

What You’ll Experience:

Hanuman Dhoka Palace: The former royal residence, adorned with carved windows and a stone statue of Hanuman.

Kumari Ghar: Spot the living goddess Kumari, a young girl worshipped as a deity, during brief window appearances.

Taleju Temple & Kal Bhairav: Marvel at intricate woodwork and a towering stone statue of the fierce god Bhairav.

Local Buzz: Watch street vendors, performers, and festivals if you’re lucky (Indra Jatra is spectacular).

Unique Fact: This UNESCO site was heavily damaged in the 2015 earthquake but retains its grandeur.

Stop 4

What You’ll Experience:

The Iconic Stupa: Climb 365 steps (or drive up) to the white dome with Buddha’s eyes, topped by a golden spire.

Playful Monkeys: Observe holy macaques scampering around—hence the nickname "Monkey Temple."

Prayer Wheels & Butter Lamps: Spin wheels for good karma and light lamps for blessings.

Sunrise/Sunset: The best time for breathtaking views over Kathmandu Valley.

Unique Fact: Legend says the hill arose from a lotus flower that bloomed in an ancient lake.

What's not included

Meals – Lunch or other food unless explicitly stated in your package.

Tips – Optional gratuities for your guide/driver (appreciated but not mandatory).

Entrance Fees to all listed UNESCO sites.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Our tour guide will meet you at the main entrance of Pashupatinath Temple. The guide will be holding a sign with your name for easy identification. In case you have trouble finding each other, the guide will be available by phone.

Important notes

Once travelers book the Kathmandu city tour through Viator, there’s no need to worry about ticket redemption at each site. Our professional guide will meet them at the designated location or provide hotel pickup, and will handle all entrance tickets to the included attractions.

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