Kathmandu Spiritual Sites: Bodhnath & Pashupatinath Tour

Kathmandu , Nepal

Kathmandu Spiritual Sites: Bodhnath & Pashupatinath Tour

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About this experience

Embark on a spiritual adventure through Kathmandu's rich heritage that takes you on an unforgettable, multifaith journey!
Start at Boudhanath, where you'll immerse yourself in Buddhism. Partake in kora, rotate prayer wheels, visit the monastery, and pay your respects like the locals. Then, explore the vibrant Hindu culture at Pashupatinath, one of Hindus' holiest sites. Glimpse the life of the sadhus, witness people get their future read by a local palm reader, witness cremations along the Bagmati River, and partake in the mesmerizing Aarati ritual – an enchanting offering of lights at Pashupatinath Temple.

Available options

Private Spirutual Tour

Private Spiritual Tour: Departure at 3 PM

Small Group Spiritual Tour

Departure at 3 PM

What's included

Join a Local English-speaking Nepali guide

Get an expert insight into Hinduism and Buddhism

Take part in the evening "Arati" – an offering of lights to the Lord at Pashupatinath Temple.

Visit the two UNESCO Heritage Sights - Boudhanath & Pashupatinath

Get tips on what else to see, do and eat during your stay

Visit to a local palm reader to learn your future (Palm reader's fees not included)

Transportation costs (from meeting point to Boudhanath & from Pashupatinath temple to the endpoint)

Witness the cremation ceremony

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Boudhanath Stupa is one of the largest stupas in the world and a centre of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. Rotate the prayer wheels along with local Buddhists

Stop 2

Thamel is the starting point of the tour. A vibrant tourist centre, it has everything from hotels to restaurants to shops, spa, clubs, you name it. You will board your vehicle at the meeting point at Thamel, Hotel Moonlight to drive to Boudhanath Stupa.

Stop 3

Pashupatinath Temple is one of the holiest Hindu shrines and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Witness the life of Shadus- the Hindu Holy Men and get an acquaintance of a local palm-reader in Pashupatinath (The fee is not included).Also witness the evening "Aarati" – an offering of lights to the Lord at Pashupatinath Temple.

What's not included

Lunch/Dinner

Alms to Sadhus and Monks/Palm reader’s fees.

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

15 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

159 reviews

5★

148

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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

Maximum group size is 12.

This is a child-friendly tour. Children under the age of 6 are permitted to join this tour free of charge.

Local Impact:Your Spiritual Nepal tour includes entrance fees to the UNESCO-listed Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa, which helps preserve local cultural heritage and ensures these important sites are maintained.

Local Impact: If you choose the option of offering butter lamps at Boudhanath, have your palm read (varies 7.5$ to 9$/pp) during the tour, and take pictures or interact with sadhus (cost 7.5$) (guide will also assist the guests in negotiating with the palm readers and Shadus accordingly.), it supports the local communities and readers and sustains the lives of sadhus who would otherwise have no access to tourist money.

All the sights we visit in Boudanath and Pashupatinath are renovated

The approximate walking distance is approximately 2 km

Meeting point

Hotel Marshyangdi, Chaksibari Marg, Thamel, Kathmandu

Important notes

Dress Code
A moderate amount of walking is involved; please bring comfortable walking shoes and your own water-bottle. (If you’re travelling during monsoon season you might want to carry a rain-proof jacket or an umbrella!)
When packing be aware that dress standards are conservative throughout Asia, especially outside major cities. To respect this and for your own comfort, we strongly recommend modest clothing. This means clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Loose, lightweight, long clothing is both respectful and cool in the predominantly hot Asian climate.

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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