UNESCO Durbar Squares Tour – Explore Kathmandu, Patan & Bhaktapur
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6h
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About this experience
Unlock the cultural heart of Nepal on this private full-day tour of Kathmandu Valley’s three Durbar Squares—each a living museum of art, architecture and royal history.
Start your day in Kathmandu Durbar Square, where ancient palaces, courtyards, and temples tell the story of the Malla kings. Continue to Patan, known as the “City of Fine Arts,” where you’ll explore intricately carved temples, bronze statues, and artisan alleys. Finally, head to the stunning medieval city of Bhaktapur, home to a towering pagoda, pottery squares, and well-preserved Newari traditions.
With a professional guide and private vehicle, this cultural journey lets you experience three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in one unforgettable day.
Available options
UNESCO Durbar Squares Tour – Explore Kathmandu, Patan & Bhaktapur
Pickup included
What's included
Professional guide
Bottled water
Hotel pickup & drop-off (within Kathmandu)
Air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
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best tour operator in Kathmandu
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Stop 2
Kathmandu Durbar Square which is also popularly known as Basantapur Durbar Square. All the houses, temple & palace in Kathmandu Durbar Square belong to the period between 12-16 century. The remarkable architecture involved in making of all the palace & temple in Kathmandu Durbar Square makes this place a popular tourist destination. Some of the places in Kathmandu Durbar Square that'll surely amaze you are; Taleju temple, Shiva-Parbati temple, Kumari Ghar, Hanumandhoka & Jaganath temple.
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Kumari Ghar
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Stop 4
Hanuman Dhoka, Kathmandu, Nepal
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Patan Museum
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Patan Durbar Square will your last visit of your Day tour. Patan which is also known as lalitpur is the oldest City among the three royal cities. Patan Durbar Square is known for its rich cultural heritage & ancient arts. There you can visit old Palace (Durbar), Patan museum and the Stone Temple of Krishna with the pillar of Garuda the vehicle of Lord Vishnu and as well of Lord Krishna.
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Stop 7
Durbar (Central) Square
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Stop 8
Golden Temple (Hiranya Varna Mahavihar)
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Stop 9
Krisnhna Mandir Temple (Chayasim Deval)
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Stop 10
Bhaktapur Duirbar Square widely known for its ancient & pure art & architecture. This ancient place engage you with a beautiful demonstration of gorgeous local products, pottery & various other artworks. Some of the important & popular places in Bhaktapur durbar Square are; Fifty five Window Palace, The Golden Gate, The Lion Gate & The Art gallery.
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Stop 11
55 Window Palace
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Even many tourists visit this small square, it is nice and interesting see how Nepal people still today use traditional way to make these poterries.
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Nyatapola Temple
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Dattatreya Temple
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Taleju Temple
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Kathmandu, Kathmandu, Nepal
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Kathmandu, Kathmandu, Nepal
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Patan (Lalitpur), Patan (Lalitpur), Nepal
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Bhaktapur, Bhaktapur, Nepal
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Stop 20
Pass by
tourist center
What's not included
Food and drinks, unless specified
Gratuities
Need to pay entrance fees to enter the monument.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Dress code is smart casual
All travellers can participate
Important notes
• Dress code is smart casual
• If you will not be arriving at your destination within the specified reconfirmation period, please reconfirm with the local service provider prior to travel, or upon arrival at your destination. Please note that departure times and locations may vary slightly.
• A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time
Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.
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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