Kathmandu , Nepal

Full Day Sightseeing Tour of Kathmandu

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(9 reviews)

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

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About this experience

Join fellow travelers on a full-day shared sightseeing tour of Kathmandu Valley and uncover the timeless beauty of Nepal’s cultural capital.
This guided small group tour takes you to some of the valley’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Choose between a shorter highlights version covering four must-see landmarks, or a comprehensive itinerary that includes all seven heritage sites in one day.
With comfortable transportation, an expert local guide, and the chance to meet like-minded explorers, this group tour is a fun and affordable way to experience the living history, spirituality, and artistry of Kathmandu.

Available options

7 Heritage Sites (Private)

Private Tour of all 7 Sites<br/>Pickup included

All 7 UNESCO Sites Visit

Duration: 7 hours<br/>Pickup included

Full Day 4 Heritage Tour

4 of 7 UNESCO sites in KTM<br/>Pickup included

4 Heritage Sites (Private)

Private Option for 4 Sites<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water, Parking

Hotel Pick up & Drop Off

Private transportation (If Private booked)

Salary of Guide and Driver

Private Tour Guide (If Private Booked)

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Located at a small hilltop to the west of Kathmandu Valley, Swayambhunath Also known as the Monkey Temple. Swayambhunath is an ancient Buddhist stupa with a glistening white dome and a watchful pair of eyes painted on its pinnacle. It is one of the most sacred sites for Buddhists and offers panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley.

Stop 2

Located in the heart of Kathmandu, Boudhanath is one of the largest stupas in Nepal and a prominent center for Tibetan Buddhism. Its colossal mandala design is adorned with colorful prayer flags and surrounded by monasteries, making it a tranquil place for both worship and reflection.

Stop 3

Situated on the banks of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu, Pashupatinath is Nepal's most sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is known for its intricate architecture, cremation ghats, and the spiritual ambiance that pervades the area. Non-Hindus can also admire its beauty from the opposite bank of the river.

Stop 4

Located in the heart of Kathmandu city, Kathmandu Durbar Square is a historic royal palace complex featuring stunning architecture and intricately carved wooden buildings. It served as the ancient seat of the Malla kings and is a hub for traditional Nepalese art and culture.

Located In the city of Patan, about 8 kilometers from Kathmandu, Patan Durbar Square is another royal palace complex, showcasing Newar architecture and artistry. It boasts well-preserved temples, courtyards, and museums, offering a glimpse into the rich heritage of the Newar people.

Stop 6

Located in Bhaktapur, a neighboring city to Kathmandu, Bhaktapur Durbar Square is a masterpiece of art and renowned for its medieval charm and well-preserved heritage. The square features numerous temples, statues, and intricately carved buildings, offering a step back in time to the medieval Malla period.

Located on a hilltop near Bhaktapur, Changunarayan Temple is one of the oldest Hindu temples in Nepal and is renowned for its exquisite stone inscriptions and intricate woodwork. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and surrounded by lush greenery.

What's not included

Food & Drinks

Which is not mentioned in the 'Inclusion'

Swayambhunath Temple (This is Maximum rate, different rates are applied as per nationality)

Kathmandu Durbar Square Entrance Fee (Given rate is maximum, there are different Price for different nationals)

Patan Durbar Square Entrance Fee (Given rate is maximum, there are different Price for different nationals)

Pashupatinath Temple Entrance Fee (Given rate is maximum, there are different Price for different nationals, Free for Indian National)

Bauddhanath Stupa Entrance Fee (Given rate is maximum, there are different Price for different nationals)

Bhaktapur Durbar Square Entrance Fee (Given rate is maximum, there are different Price for different nationals)

Changu Narayan Entrance Fee (Given rate is maximum, there are different Price for different nationals)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

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