Kathmandu , Nepal

Patan and Bhaktapur city day tour

Active

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Patan and Bhaktapur city day tour takes you to the ancient cities of Patan and Bhaktapur to unleash the hidden treasures of these cities. A half day in Patan and a half day in Bhaktapur are just enough to see the highlights of two historical kingdoms. This tour is specially designed for travelers who have limited time and still want to explore the cultural and traditional monuments of cities within a day. With our experienced tour guide who is knowledgeable about the city and its history will be lead this tour starts at 9:30 am from your hotel including the Bhaktapur and Patan cities included on this day tour on a comfortable and private vehicle. We will spend half days exploring the monuments of Patan durbar square and later drive to Bhaktapur. Both cities have got a lot to offers to its visitors. Our guide would be more than happy to assist you in the best possible way to make your tour memorable and exciting. We terminate our city tour driving back to Kathmandu.

Available options

Patan and Bhaktapur city day tour

What's included

Private Vehicle with Driver, Tour Guide and Vehicle Expenses

Detailed itinerary

Patan Durbar Square stands as symbolic monuments of old Newari tradition and culture. The Bagmati River divides the Patan from Kathmandu; but once upon the time, these were separate kingdoms. It is one of the seven UNESCO world heritage sites in the Kathmandu valley. It is filled with numerous temples, shrines and statues, stone sculptures and wooden crafts. Patan durbar square holds the greatest concentration of Newari architecture anywhere in the valley. It is an ideal place to visit and discover the traditional Newari cultural and history. The palace or durbar is situated in the square once used be the official resident of the Malla kings. The Krishna Mandir is Centre of attraction and the most important religious place. The temple has three floors and 21 golden pinnacles. The first floor enshrines Krishna, the second Shiva, and the third one Lokheshwor.

Stop 2

Bhaktapur Durbar Square is an old city where you get to behold the traces of ancient civilization, traditional and cultural monuments and many other religious sites. It is an ancient Newari town located at the east of Kathmandu about 12 km in distance from Kathmandu city. Bhaktapur city divided into 24 traditional localities cover an area of five square kilometers. It is central attraction of Bhaktapur district. It has lots of offer to its visitors. It is like a living museum. It is a pleasant place to walk as the cobbled streets are free of traffic and full of temples, courtyards, squares, wells, and local markets. The erotic elephant just before the entrance way to a square is something that attracts you at a glimpse. Bhaktapur durbar square holds many traditional festival and rituals throughout the year.

What's not included

Guest meals, Entrance fee and Personal Expenses

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

At Nepal Singapore Tours Office or At your Hotel in Kathmandu

Important notes

Travelers will purchase the ticket at the attraction

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