Chandragiri, Swoyambunath and Kathmandu Durbar Square Tour
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Looking for a short tour of Kathmandu before heading off to Pokhara or Everest? Then the Highlights of Kathmandu Tour is the perfect day trip for you. It includes two of the most popular of the Valley’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites as well as a ride up the Chandragiri Cable Car to see not only the beautiful Kathmandu Valley but the mighty Himalayas as well.
This is a one day tour that starts out with a ride up Chandragiri Hill by the new cable car in the Kathmandu Valley. Following lunch on top, ride back down and visit nearly Swayambhu and Kathmandu’s Durbar Square. Both are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which feature incredible architecture, history, culture, and spirituality. This is an ideal day trip that can be added to any Nepal adventure.
Available options
Chandragiri, Swoyambunath and Kathmandu Durbar Square Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Professional guide
Lunch(Nepali Dish)
Entrance fees of both Heritage sites
Both ways cable car in Chandragiri Hills
Transport by private vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
The Highlights of Kathmandu Tour makes for an incredible day trip in the amazing Kathmandu Valley. It features the Chandragiri Cable Car ride up Chandragiri Hill for the most fantastic view of the Himalayas as well as the beautiful Kathmandu Valley below. It also takes in two of the most popular of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Swayambhu and Kathmandu’s Durbar Square.
The journey begins after breakfast when your guide picks you up at your hotel with your private car to take you to Chandragiri Cable Car. Here you ride on this newly developed attraction in a gondola with large glass windows on all four sides. You skim over the lush, green jungle below as the gondola glides upwards. From your windows, gaze out over the Kathmandu Valley as the snowcapped peaks of the Himalayas rise higher and higher on the horizon.
At the top, explore the temple as Chandragiri is a Hindu pilgrimage site. Go from here and enjoy lunch at the top where there is fine dining. Eat inside or out-of-doors with the Himalayas for your backdrop. On clear days, you can actually see five of the 14 highest peaks in the world, including Mt. Everest in the east!
2
Stop 2
You will return to your car via the cable car where your guide and driver whisk you off to Swayambhu. The famed Monkey Temple has been a Buddhist Pilgrimage Site for over 2000 years. Here you will see a synergy of Hinduism and Buddhism as only found in Nepal. The views from on top of Swayambhu are also outstanding as you explore the various stupas and temples.
3
Here you see large Buddhist stupa and prayers flag around this park. This is the also entry point of Swayambhunath stupa.
4
Stop 4
Our next stop is Kathmandu’s Durbar Square. This was the home of the kings of Nepal until the end of the monarchy in 2007. Besides the royal palace, there are nearly 60 major Hindu temples, reflecting architectural styles dating back 800 years as well as from different royal dynasties.
We time it so that you will be able to see The Kumari, also known as the Living Goddess. She is a young girl especially chosen to be the embodiment of a goddess and she comes to give blessings to devotees. She is worshipped as a goddess by the Nepali people.
5
Kumari Chowk is located in the middle of Kathmandu Durbar Square as it is the home for living goddess Kumari, a virgin girl chosen from the Newar family.
What's not included
Drinks
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Dress code is smart casual
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
