Local Foodie Food Tour around Durbar Square

Kathmandu , Nepal

Local Foodie Food Tour around Durbar Square

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About this experience

The tour concludes at Durbar Square. Participants are free to continue exploring the area or return to Thamel. Your guide will provide recommendations for further culinary adventures or cultural sites to visit. Cultural Exploration: Upon reaching Durbar Square, explore the historical and architectural marvels of the area, including ancient temples and palaces. Learn about the history of the Malla kings who once ruled Kathmandu. Interaction: Engage with local vendors and learn about the ingredients that form the backbone of Nepali cuisine. Cultural Insight: Learn about the significance of Newari cuisine in Kathmandu Valley’s cultural heritage. Tasting: Sample street food like Sel Roti, (a traditional Nepali rice doughnut), Pani Puri (crispy puris filled with spicy water) and Sweet Lassi (a yogurt based creamy, sweetened and chilled beverage). Enjoy a selection of Seli (fried ring-shaped sweet bread) and Anarsa (a sweet rice flour and jaggery cookie).

Available options

Local Foodie Food Tour around Durbar Square

What's included

Start with 100% sourced Tea from Ilam at Basantapur

Professional guide

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Bara, Samosa, Sel Roti, Lassi, Hidden Gem Bakery and other fresh to order local Snacks are provided

Conclude your tour with famous Narayan Dai ko momo or tip top samosa and sweets.

Ancient Asan Market

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Thamel is Kathmandu’s vibrant tourist hub, famous for its bustling streets lined with shops, trekking agencies, cafes, restaurants, and bars. Known as the go-to destination for travelers, Thamel offers a lively atmosphere where you can find everything from traditional handicrafts to modern outdoor gear. The narrow, maze-like streets are alive with the sounds of vendors, motorbikes, and music, while colorful prayer flags flutter above, adding to the neighborhood's distinct charm.

If you’re looking to relax after a day of exploring, a meet-up at Karnali Organic Thali is an excellent choice. Nestled in the heart of Thamel, this spot is renowned for its focus on organic, locally sourced ingredients. Their Nepali Tea and Coffee offerings are a highlight, giving visitors a chance to taste Nepal’s rich beverage culture in a tranquil setting.

Stop 2

1. Visit to Asan Market (00:30 Hrs)
o Location: 15-minute walk from Thamel
o Experience: Wander through one of Kathmandu’s oldest and most vibrant markets. Explore stalls brimming with spices, fresh produce, lentils, and traditional snacks.
o Tasting: Sample street food like Sel Roti, (a traditional Nepali rice doughnut), Pani Puri (crispy puris filled with spicy water)
o Interaction: Engage with local vendors and learn about the ingredients that form the backbone of Nepali cuisine.

Stop 3

Arrival at Kathmandu Durbar Square (02:00 Hrs)
• Cultural Exploration: Upon reaching Durbar Square, explore the historical and architectural marvels of the area, including ancient temples and palaces. Learn about the history of the Malla kings who once ruled Kathmandu.
5. Lunch: New Road Local Eatery (02:45 Hrs)
o Location: Near Durbar Square
o Experience: Conclude your tour with famous Narayan Dai ko momo or tip top samosa and sweets.
o Cultural Insight: Understand the elements of a traditional Nepali meal and its importance in daily life.

What's not included

All Fees and Taxes

Alcoholic Beverages

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

You can find Namaste Cooking School, Kathmandu on Google Maps to locate the meetup point.

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