Kathmandu Heritage Tour – Private Full-Day UNESCO Sites & Temples
Active
5h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This full day private sightseeing tour takes you to Kathmandu's UNESCO World Heritage sites. Explore monuments that are considered some of the greatest achievements of the Malla dynasty. Appreciate the unique architecture of these famous sites and learn about the significance it plays in Nepalese history.
Available options
Kathmandu Heritage Tour – Private Full-Day UNESCO Sites & Temples
Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Bottled water
Transport by private vehicle
Private tour guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Get a panoramic peek at the picturesque city from the hilltop temple of Swayambhunath (Monkey temple), one of the popular places for visitors and main Buddhist sites in Nepal with over 3000 years history.
2
Stop 2
Kathmandu Durbar Square for an insider’s look at the ornate, 16th-century royal residence. You also see Kathmandu’s one-of-a-kind Kumari, or living goddess. See all the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, hearing commentary from your private guide along the way and enjoying plenty of time to ask questions.
3
Very old tourist centre of Kathmandu with beautiful Hindu temple.
4
Taleju Bhawani is one of the most powerful goddesses and is also regarded as the clan goddess of the Malla kings who ruled Nepal from the 12th to the 18th century because of which the temple of the goddess is present in three major cities, Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Patan. The goddess has four heads and ten arms and the three temples have the golden statues and metal work depicting the goddess. The temples accommodate the shrines of both the goddesses Taleju Bhawani and Living Goddess Kumari.
5
this fascinating palace is home to a virgin girl who is worshipped as the goddess Durga in human form. She can sometimes be glimpsed at her windows.
6
Stop 6
Real monkeys live in this square, built to honor the mischievous and courageous monkey god Hanuman inside the Kathmandu Durbar Square,.
7
Stop 7
Main Hindu sites
8
Stop 8
Pashupatinath Temple Pashupatinath is one of the most sacred Hindu shrines in the world and lies 5 km east of the city centre. The richly-ornamented pagoda houses the sacred Linga, or phallic symbol, of Lord Shiva. Chronicles indicate the temple’s existence prior to 400 AD. Devotees can be seen taking ritual dips in the holy Bagmati River flowing beside the temple.
9
This place is on constant action, reminds me a lot of India but with more reverence and less hype. Pashupatinath entrance fees work here.
10
Stop 10
Boudhanath Later visit Boudhanath, the 2500 years old Buddhist stupa in the Valley built in the 5th century with four pairs of eyes of Lord Buddha in four cardinal directions keeping an eternal watch over the people and their doings. You will find Buddhist pilgrims from Tibet going around the stupa spinning the prayer wheels.
11
Stop 11
Pass by
Main tourist area.
12
Stop 12
Pass by
The Garden of Dreams, a neo classical historical garden, is situated in the midst of Kathmandu city, Nepal. The Garden's design has much in common with formal European gardens: paved perimeter paths
13
Best Kathmandu tour operator in Nepal with more than 20 years experience.
What's not included
Food and drinks
Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
Entrance fees
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.5
16 reviews
5★
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4★
3
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1★
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Tripadvisor
4.6
11 reviews
5★
10
4★
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3★
0
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1★
1
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
A minimum of 1 people per booking is required
No age limit
Please expect to spend around the $10 USD for lunch purchased locally
Please note that there has been significant damage to some of the sites visited on this tour due to the earthquakes in April and May 2015
A maximum of 10 people per booking
Free to Change the date and time
Important notes
•
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
Hotel pickups commence 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
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
