Chandragiri Hills and Patan Durbar Square Private Guided Tour
Active
5h - 6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This tour stands out by combining two of Kathmandu Valley’s most iconic experiences in one seamless journey. Explore the artistic and cultural treasures of Patan Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where your guide highlights exquisite Newari craftsmanship, historic temples, and serene courtyards. Then, travel to Chandragiri Hills for a scenic drive and an exciting 2.5 km cable car ride to breathtaking panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley and the Himalayas. At the summit, visit the magnificent Shiva temple, one of Nepal’s largest shrines, while learning fascinating stories about local legends and the mountains. With expert guidance, cultural insights, stunning photography opportunities, and a mix of history, art, nature, and spirituality, this tour offers a rich and memorable experience that goes beyond typical sightseeing.
Available options
Chandragiri Hills and Patan Durbar Square Private Guided Tour
What's included
Bottled Water
Private air conditioned vehicle according to group size
All government as well as local taxes
Round trip cable car ride to Chandragiri Hills
Patan Durbar Square
English Speaking Tour Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Explore Patan Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its exquisite Newari art and craftsmanship. Your expert guide will take you through the historic royal palace complex, sharing insights into Patan’s evolution as a hub of culture and fine arts. Discover key landmarks including Krishna Mandir, Bhimsen Temple, and the stunning Malla-era courtyards, each adorned with intricate stone, wood, and metal carvings. Learn about the artistic traditions that make Patan truly unique while enjoying a calm, culturally rich environment perfect for observing local life. Capture memorable photos as you stroll through this remarkable heritage site and gain a deeper understanding of Nepal’s artistic legacy and architectural mastery.
2
After exploring Patan Durbar Square, continue your journey to Chandragiri Hills, located southwest of Kathmandu Valley at 2,551 meters. A 14 km drive from Patan takes about 30–40 minutes to reach the cable car base station. Enjoy a 2.5 km cable car ride to the hilltop, where sweeping views of Kathmandu Valley and the Himalayas—including Ganesh, Manaslu, Langtang, Dorje Lakpa, and Jugal Himal—await. At the summit, visit the impressive Shiva temple, one of Nepal’s largest Hindu shrines, making Chandragiri both a stunning viewpoint and an important pilgrimage site. Your guide will share captivating stories about the mountains, local legends, and the temple’s cultural significance, adding depth to your experience. Combining natural beauty, spirituality, and cultural insight, this visit is a memorable highlight of your tour.
What's not included
Personal Expenses
Tips for Guide And Driver
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
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
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Please meet at Nepali Ghar Hotel, 26 Amrit Marg, Thamel, Kathmandu 44600. Recognizable by its traditional wooden façade and carved entrance. Enter the main lobby where our guide will be waiting with a K.J. Adventure Nepal signboard.
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
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
