Kathmandu From Queer Eye Cultural Heritage Tour
Active
4h - 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
In Kathmandu, historical temples rich with queer imagery offer a unique glimpse into the city's inclusive past. The Tridevi Temple in Thamel is renowned for its gay sexual carvings, while nearby in Asan, the 19th-century Annapurna Temple is surrounded by tantric temples adorned with transgender icons. Over in Kirtipur, the 17th-century Uma Maheshwor Temple displays an array of Kamasutra carvings that celebrate polygamy, homosexuality, zoophilia, and self-pleasure. These sites not only highlight Kathmandu’s spiritual diversity but also its long-standing embrace of gender and sexual identities, making them pivotal in understanding the city’s rich cultural tapestry.
Available options
Kathmandu From Queer Eye Cultural Heritage Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Lunch
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Tucked away in the fabulous kaleidoscope of Thamel, honey, are temples just dripping with queer heritage, waiting for a kiki! These hidden gems are totally off the beaten path, not your usual tourist tea! So, grab your heels, get your strut on, and prepare to throw shade at the past in the most gag-worthy way! Let's turn the party and serve some historical eleganza extravaganza!
2
Stop 2
Oh, darling, get ready to dive into the heart of Kathmandu with your lashes on fleek and your history cap tilted just so! We’re about to serve you a full course of Nepal’s gender-fluid past, no tea no shade! Honey, this ain’t your mama’s tour—this is where the fierce and fabulous licensed guides spill all the T on Nepal’s queer icons and legendary gender-bending moments. We’re talking full-on kiki sessions where no topic is too taboo, no story too scandalous! So, cinch up, strut down, and let's get this historical ball rolling! Let the library of Kathmandu be open, because reading is what? Fundamental, darling!
3
Stop 3
Oh, honey, pack your best sequins because we're about to sashay our way to Kirtipur! Just a stone's throw from the heart of Kathmandu, this little slice of fabulous is serving up Newari culture with a side of gender-bending realness. We’re not just walking through history, we're voguing through it! Get ready to gag on the eleganza of Kirtipur’s temples, where the spirits of queer deities are living their best lives, untouched by time. And as the sun dips down, and if you’re up for it, we'll be living it up, tasting the spice of life with some scrumptious Newari cuisine. So, let your hair down, let your spirit soar, and let's toast to the queer ancestors with every bite we take! This isn't just a trip, it's a journey to fabulous!
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Let's gather on the street outside, directly outside the Garden of Dreams.
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
