Kathmandu UNESCO World Heritage Site Tour

Kathmandu , Nepal

Kathmandu UNESCO World Heritage Site Tour

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(21 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Why Kathmandu Valley UNESCO Tour?

· Visit Pashupatinath temple: one among 4 most significant religious sites for devotees and disciples of Shiva in Asia.

· Explore one of the most sacred Buddhist Stupas in Nepal Swayambhunath Stupa teeming with Shrines and Monasteries.

· Get fascinated by the most sophisticated architectural paragon of Patan full of Hindu shrines, Buddhist monuments, wonderful cravings and several more.

· Witness the massive Stupa of Buddha (36 meters high) dominating the skyline in incredible Boudhanath Stupa.

· Take back with you the memorable moments and photographs of these incredible landmarks listed as UNESCO world heritage sites.

Who can go on this brief UNESCO tour?

From children to busy adults and delicate elderly, this tour is suited for anyone.

Available options

Kathmandu UNESCO World Heritage Site Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Seasoned, government licensed, finesse guide with proper English or French speaking skills.

Private vehicle to get you to today’s destinations.

Entrance fees of 4 UNESCO heritage sites & government taxes.

Bottle of mineral water during tour.

Dinner: Nepali cuisine in Nepali style restaurant.

What you'll see

A full day Kathmandu Valley UNESCO tour takes you to the prehistoric site with cultural and spiritual importance. The culturally enriching and notable monuments, buildings and temples are sure to take you back in time. Kathmandu Valley encompasses Bhaktapur and Lalitpur along with Kathmandu. Together, these city’s make Kathmandu Valley the ultimate site for the UNESCO tour. You are taken to 4 significant gems of Kathmandu valley i.e. Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa, Patan Durbar Square, Bouddhanath Stupa during your Kathmandu Valley UNESCO Day Tour.

What's not included

Tips for guide and driver.

Other expenses not mentioned above.

Lunch, beverage and other snacks during the day.

Available languages

Guide guide

HI EN FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

21 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Single day : UNESCO World Heritage Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley.

Get ready for one of the most memorable days of your life where you will visit 4 beauties of Kathmandu valley, each popular and having social and cultural importance. These sites are explored by many visitors every day. The itinerary of this day can be adjusted as per preference. We commence our tour with a tour to Pashupatinath Temple. You will experience an unparalleled blend of religious, cultural and spiritual experience in this divine temple. This temple draws many devotees and pilgrims from the subcontinent of India and other Hindu followers over the world. Proceeding with our trip, we will land next in Bouddhanath Stupa. Bouddhanath Stupa has held its head high as a paragon of Buddhist belief and one of its prime attractions is the 36-meter-tall Buddha monument. This stupa is also called “Chorten Chenpo '' meaning Great Tower or “Great Stupa”. Many pilgrims from India and China visit this stupa for its religious ceremonies. Our guide will enlighten you about the destinations of this day as we visit them. We head towards Patan that is regarded as one of oldest Buddhist Cities in the world. We visit Patan Durbar Square and explore the Patan Museum, Krishna temple and many more. You will be astonished to witness the Patan Museum that is one of the best museums in Asia homing innumerous Bronze statues and religious objects. Towards the end ,we head to Final destination of our trip, which is Swoyambhunath temple commonly referred to as Monkey temple. You will witness Nepal’s largest image of Sakyamuni Buddha sitting on a high pedestal on the west side of Swoyambhu. The stupa is filled by the shrines, monuments, Chaityas and statues of Hindus and Buddhist deities like Manjushri, Saraswati etcetera. We will arrive back at our hotel after roaming around all these stunning UNESCO sites. We can end our day with some strolling and shopping in the colorful bazaar of Kathmandu city.

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