Hadigaun Kathmandu All-Inclusive Food Tour

Kathmandu , Nepal

Hadigaun Kathmandu All-Inclusive Food Tour

Active

2h - 4h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Join us for an immersive all-inclusive food and culture tour in Hadigaun during Vehicle-Free Saturday, where the streets transform into a lively marketplace filled with traditional food stalls, handcrafted goods, and cultural performances. This tour offers a perfect blend of local flavours, heritage, and community spirit, allowing you to explore one of Kathmandu’s oldest settlements in a unique way.

The tour begins with a hotel pick-up from Thamel or nearby areas. Our guide will introduce you to Hadigaun’s history, rich in Newari traditions, temples, and community life.

Upon arrival, you’ll enter a traffic-free zone with food vendors and artisans. Walk through bustling lanes, stopping at selected stalls to taste authentic Newari delicacies while learning about their ingredients and preparation.

Enjoy live performances, handicraft-making, and local gatherings. Our guide will also show you key historical landmarks, sharing stories of Hadigaun’s significance in Kathmandu.

Available options

Hadigaun Kathmandu All-Inclusive Food Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Dessert (Ju:Ju Dhau; a local sweet curd)

Bottled water

GST (Goods and Services Tax)

Only for the non-alcoholics

Try Chhyang (rice beer) or Aila Raksi (Local alcohol); homemade

Hotel Pickup and Drop

Air-conditioned vehicle

Entry Fees (if required)

An English Speaking Experienced Guide

Live cooked local lunch as per the choice and menu

Parking Fees

Operations Service Charges

Detailed itinerary

Gahanapokhari is a historic pond located in Hadigaun, Kathmandu. It is known for its cultural and religious significance, especially during the annual Indra Jatra festival. The pond is believed to have ancient ties to Nepal’s Malla era and serves as an important site for local rituals. Surrounded by traditional Newar settlements, Gahanapokhari reflects Kathmandu’s rich heritage and remains a peaceful spot amidst the city's bustle.

Hadigaun is one of Kathmandu’s oldest settlements, rich in Newar heritage and cultural traditions. Known for its historic temples and festivals, this area comes alive during special occasions with vibrant celebrations.

One of Hadigaun’s unique attractions is its traditional food feast, organized by the local Newar community. During this event, locals prepare and serve homemade Newar delicacies, offering an authentic taste of their cuisine. Live cooking stalls showcase dishes like Yomari, Bara, Chatamari, and Choila, while traditional Newar drinks such as Aila (local rice liquor) are also served. The feast is more than just a food experience—it’s a cultural gathering that reflects Newar hospitality and traditions, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

What's not included

Tips and gratuities for tour guide and drivers

Anything not mentioned in the included section

Available languages

Guide guide

HI EN

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Alcoholic Drinks are only available for 18+ Travellers

Not reccommended for travellers with any food restrictions

Ask your guide about it before ordering any food

Meeting point

Please contact the number on WhatsApp that you get after booking.

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