Kathmandu Full Day Exploration
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Kathmandu Full Day Exploration

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(7 reviews)
7h
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

Cultural and Historical Sites: Kathmandu is home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and your tour will likely include visits to some of them. These sites may include ancient temples, stupas, palaces, and durbar squares, each with its unique architecture and historical significance.

Spiritual Experiences: Many of the sites you'll visit are of great spiritual importance to the Nepali people. Expect to witness various religious rituals, ceremonies, and prayers, especially at places like Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa.

Local Life and Street Scenes: As you navigate through the city, you'll have the opportunity to observe the daily life of Kathmandu's residents. You might encounter bustling markets, colorful street vendors, and people going about their daily routines.

Available options

Kathmandu Full Day Exploration

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation
Air-conditioned vehicle
Hotel pick up/ drop off
Professional tour guide

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

Kathmandu Durbar Square, also known as Hanuman Dhoka Durbar Square, is an architectural masterpiece and a historical treasure located in the heart of Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a testament to Nepal's rich cultural heritage, spanning centuries of history and enchanting visitors with its stunning architecture, sacred temples, cultural festivals, and historical significance.
As one enters Kathmandu Durbar Square, it's impossible not to be awestruck by the architectural grandeur that surrounds them. The square is a veritable treasure trove of Newar architecture, characterized by its intricate woodwork, exquisite carvings, and pagoda-style temples.
The Kumari Ghar, the residence of the Kumari, the living goddess of Kathmandu, is a prime example of traditional Newar design. Its intricately carved windows and doors showcase the architectural finesse of the era. The Kumari herself occasionally appears at a window, bestowing blessings.

2
Stop 2

Swoyambhunath is a sacred pilgrimage site for both Buddhists and Hindus. For Buddhists, it holds great importance as one of the holiest stupas, believed to house relics of the Buddha himself. Devotees circumambulate the stupa in a clockwise direction, turning prayer wheels and offering butter lamps and incense as acts of devotion.
Hindus revere the stupa as well, believing it to be the embodiment of the Adi-Buddha or the primordial Buddha. They worship it as a form of Lord Shiva, and the temple complex also features a Hindu shrine dedicated to Harati.
Swoyambhunath Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Nepal's cultural and religious diversity. It is a place where people from all walks of life come to find solace, seek blessings, and experience a deep connection with spirituality.
During Buddha Jayanti, the celebration of Buddha's birth, enlightenment, and death, the stupa is adorned with colorful prayer flags and offerings.

3

Boudhanath Stupa, also known as Boudha or Bouddhanath, is an iconic religious and cultural site located in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal. This magnificent stupa is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of Tibetan Buddhism and a UNESCO World Heritage SiteHistorical and
The stupa itself is a marvel of architecture and symbolism. Its massive dome, adorned with whitewashed paint and gilded spires, stands as a visual testament to Tibetan Buddhist aesthetics. At the top of the stupa is a grand pinnacle, known as the harmika, which is adorned with Buddha's all-seeing eyes on all four sides. These eyes symbolize the wisdom and compassion of the Buddha, and the third eye in the center represents insight.
A towering spire, known as the gajur, crowns the harmika, with 13 golden steps leading to a parasol at the top. These 13 tiers represent the path to enlightenment, each step signifying a stage on the journey to nirvana.

4
Stop 4

Pashupatinath Temple, located on the banks of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu, Nepal, is one of the most revered and sacred Hindu temples in the world. This ancient temple complex is not only a center of religious significance but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts pilgrims, tourists, and spiritual seekers from across the globe. Pashupatinath Temple has a rich history that dates back over 2,000 years. It is believed to have been built in the 5th century during the reign of the Lichchhavi king Supuspa Deva. The temple's name is derived from the Hindu god Shiva, particularly in his form as Pashupati, which means "Lord of Animals." Shiva is the principal deity worshipped here.
The Bagmati River, which flows beside the temple, is considered sacred by Hindus, and many cremation ghats (funeral pyres) are located along its banks. The tradition of cremating the deceased at Pashupatinath and then scattering the ashes in the holy river continues to this day.

What's not included

Lunch
Entrance fees USD 26 for the four attractions

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0
7 reviews
5★
7
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Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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

Adults
Age 0-99
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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