Kathmandu Food & Drink Walking Tour Taste Local Delicacies
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3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience
Explore the vibrant culinary landscape of Kathmandu on this engaging 3-hour walking tour. Guided by a local expert, traverse the bustling backstreets from Thamel to Asan, Jyatha, Indrachok, and Chhetrapati. Sample an array of authentic street food, local drinks, and traditional delicacies that reflect Nepal's rich cultural heritage. This tour offers not just a taste of local cuisine but also stories and insights that connect you with Kathmandu's soul, making it a truly immersive experience.
- Discover a variety of Newari and Nepali street food at local vendors
- Enjoy locally brewed drinks and visit hidden alleys for unique tastes
- Explore Kathmandu's traditional spice market at Asan
- Learn the cultural significance behind each dish from your knowledgeable guide
Available options
Pick & Drop (Inside RingRoad)
Car, Van<br/>Pickup included
Kathmandu Food & Drink Walking Tour: Taste Local Delicacies
What's included
Bottled water
Local, Experienced, Helpful Guide
Lunch
Snacks
Dinner
Breakfast
Coffee and/or Tea
Meals
Brunch
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Thamel is the bustling heart of Kathmandu’s tourism scene. Lively and colorful, this area is filled with shops, cafes, and street stalls. It’s a fusion of traditional and modern Kathmandu, making it the perfect starting point for your tour. Here, you’ll be introduced to the basics of Nepali street food culture while soaking in the energy of the city.
2
Jyatha is a lesser-known, peaceful corner near Thamel that holds a wealth of culinary treasures. This quiet residential neighborhood is dotted with small eateries and traditional shops. It’s here that we try local favorites like Newari snacks and freshly made momos in humble settings, away from the tourist crowds.
3
Stop 3
Asan is one of the oldest and most vibrant marketplaces in Kathmandu. A historic crossroads where six streets converge, it has been a center for trade for centuries. As you walk through this area, you’ll witness spice vendors, fresh produce stalls, and religious offerings — a feast for the senses. This is where we explore Nepal’s deep culinary roots and aromatic spice culture.
4
Indra Chock, or Indrachowk, is a historical square located near Kathmandu Durbar Square. Known for its cultural importance and vibrant street life, this area features old temples, local textile shops, and vendors selling sweet yogurt known as juju dhau — a specialty of the Newar community. It’s a perfect blend of food, faith, and community.
5
Chhetrapati is a busy intersection and neighborhood that borders Thamel and leads toward the historic parts of Kathmandu. Though often passed by quickly, this area is rich in local charm and daily life. It’s where we wind down the tour, sharing your final bites and drinks in a more relaxed, local setting.
What's not included
Personal Expenses (Shopping, Alcoholic Drinks, Insurance, Tips for Guide)
Available languages
Guide guide
HI
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Just come and sit on the chars. We will start the tour on time.
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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