Kathmandu , Nepal

Kathmandu City Sightseeing Bus Tour

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About this experience

Immersive Heritage: Dive deep into Kathmandu's essence as you explore five UNESCO World Heritage Sites, experiencing the city’s rich history and architectural wonders firsthand.

Meet Locals: Journey alongside knowledgeable locals who share fascinating cultural insights, allowing you to connect with the traditions and stories that shape this vibrant city.

Exclusive Experiences: Witness sacred rituals at iconic temples and uncover hidden gems that many tours overlook, providing a unique perspective on the city's spiritual and cultural heart.

Affordable: Enjoy the best of Kathmandu without breaking the bank! Our tour is designed to offer incredible value, ensuring you experience the richness of Nepal at an accessible price.

Available options

Kathmandu City Sightseeing Bus Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Pick-ups and Drop-off

Tour manager

All applicable taxes

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Pashupatinath Temple, located in Kathmandu, Nepal, is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. As one of the holiest temples in Hinduism and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it attracts thousands of pilgrims each year. The temple features stunning architecture and intricate carvings, set along the banks of the sacred Bagmati River. Visitors can observe the vibrant evening Aarti ceremony, where priests perform rituals accompanied by the glowing lights of oil lamps, creating a serene and spiritual atmosphere. The complex also includes cremation ghats, where traditional Hindu funerary rites are carried out.

Guhyeshwari Shaktipeeth Temple, located near Pashupatinath in Kathmandu, Nepal, is a significant Hindu shrine dedicated to Goddess Parvati. Revered as one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, it symbolizes divine feminine energy. The temple features an underground sanctum, where devotees offer prayers and rituals. Its serene surroundings, adorned with vibrant flowers and spiritual ambiance, attract both pilgrims and tourists seeking blessings and tranquility. The temple is especially busy during festivals like Dashain and Navaratri, drawing many devotees who come to honor the goddess and seek her protection.

Stop 3

Boudhanath Stupa, located in Kathmandu, Nepal, is one of the largest and most sacred stupas in the world, revered by both Buddhists and tourists alike. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features a magnificent dome and a striking white mandala, adorned with colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind. It is a significant pilgrimage site, attracting thousands of devotees who circumambulate the stupa while chanting prayers. Surrounding the stupa are numerous monasteries, shops, and eateries, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with spirituality and culture. Boudhanath offers a serene escape and a glimpse into the rich Buddhist heritage of Nepal.

Stop 4

Budhanilkanth Temple, located in the northern outskirts of Kathmandu, Nepal, is a significant Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is renowned for its iconic statue of Vishnu reclining on the cosmic serpent, Ananta, surrounded by a serene pond. This unique depiction attracts numerous pilgrims and visitors, particularly during festivals like Harishankar and Dashain. The tranquil setting, with lush greenery and stunning mountain views, creates a peaceful atmosphere for worship and reflection. Budhanilkanth is a popular destination for those seeking to experience the spiritual heritage and natural beauty of the Kathmandu Valley.

Swayambhunath Temple, also known as the Monkey Temple, is an ancient religious site located atop a hill in Kathmandu, Nepal. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features a striking stupa adorned with a large golden dome and the all-seeing eyes of Buddha, symbolizing wisdom and compassion. Visitors can climb the 365 steps to reach the stupa, where they are rewarded with panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley. The temple complex is home to numerous shrines, monasteries, and a vibrant community of monkeys, adding to its unique charm. Swayambhunath is a significant pilgrimage site for both Buddhists and Hindus, making it a must-visit destination for cultural and spiritual exploration.

What's not included

Entrance fees

Food and drinks

Tips

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.5

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

We suggest allocating an additional 2 hours to the travel schedule.

Meeting point

Our representative will contact you before the tour begins and meet you at the designated location, opposite Hotel Malla.

Important notes

Our representative will be there to help you onto the bus. Please contact us as soon as possible.

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