UNESCO Heritage Sightseeing in Kathmandu Private Tour
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
It's a beautiful tour, guided by our professional Tour Leaders of Nepal. We have also a professional lady guide for the comfort of female travelers. This tour will take you to the famous UNESCO sites and give you the depth information about Nepal and its history. Explore the city and learn about the diverse culture mixed with different religions.
Available options
UNESCO Heritage Sightseeing in Kathmandu Private Tour
Pickup included
What's included
bottle of water
Air-conditioned vehicle
Professional Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Swayambhunath is a 5th Century ancient Stupa which is also known as Monkey Temple. This sacred pilgrimage place is situated atop a hill in the west of Kathmandu Valley which is Considered holy to Buddhists, Tibetan, and Hindus.
2
Stop 2
It's a 16th Century Royal Palace mainly built by Pratap Singha Malla. It's in the heart of Kathmandu Valley. The main attraction of this palace is Kumari (The living goddess). The historical palace gives you the ideas of ancient Nepal. There are many temples around the Palace. These temples are carved with beautiful sculptures of Hindu gods and goddesses.
3
Stop 3
It is a 1st century Temple mainly dedicated to Hindu Lord Shiva. It is one of the important shrines of Hindus. Many pilgrims from India come here to pay homage. Saturday is known as the day of Shiva, on that day every woman does fasting in the name of their husband and Visit the Shiva Temple. Every Saturday you will see a large crowd of women in red or green clothes standing for prayers for her husband’s good health and life in Pashupatinath Temple. Shivaratri is the main festival of Pashupatinath. A large number of saints from India come on that day. The Pashupatinath community takes care of them by providing food and shelter. You will experience open cremation on the bank of the holy river Bagmati following Hindu rituals. There are many holy men and priests (palm readers) found in the Pashupatinath corridors. It’s interesting to know and see the activities of religious people in the Hindu Temple.
4
Stop 4
It is a 5th-century ancient Stupa. It is one of the important Buddhist pilgrimage sites from ancient times. In the early morning and evening, there is a mass of local people gathered to do Kora (Circumambulation) of Stupa with Mane (pray wheel) and Bodhachitta (Buddhist beads) in their hands. There are some beautiful Monasteries inside the premises. You can visit and attend prayers with the monks if it’s open. Its surroundings give you a pure feeling of peace. This place is mainly settled by the Buddhists which gives you an environment similar to the Tibet hence, it is also known as mini Tibet.
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Guide guide
EN
Written guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Narsingh Chowk Marg
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
