Cooking Tour in Kathmandu - Learn as Local with Nepalese Family

Kathmandu , Nepal

Cooking Tour in Kathmandu - Learn as Local with Nepalese Family

Active

4h - 5h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The Cooking Tour of Nepal involves a titillating blending of Indian and Tibetan cuisine that has rolled itself into its own unique flavor. Those who taste Nepali cooking for the first time are in awe of the wonderful aromas and spices that make such succulent dishes. In the Cooking Tour of Nepal, you get to learn the secrets of mouth-watering Nepali dishes.

This is a four-hour program that takes you from the market to the finished product. Hands-on cooking is under the guidance of a skilled Nepali cook. There are two programs which run each day, and you can choose to do traditional dishes as well as vegetarian and vegan delights.

Each class ends with either lunch or dinner where you get to enjoy your newly acquired Nepali culinary skills. If you like cooking or just want to explore the uniqueness of Nepal foods, the Cooking Tour in Kathmandu is definitely a half-day program just for you.

Available options

Cooking Tour in Kathmandu - Learn as Local with Nepalese Family

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Choice of dishes to make, including vegan and vegetarian delights.

Air-conditioned vehicle

Skilled Master Nepali cook to teach you how to make real Nepali foods.

Learning to cook five (5) traditional Nepali dishes.

Lunch or Dinner following the completion of your entrees

Transport by private vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Traditional Nepal foods is an experience unto itself. Borrowing from Tibetan and Indian traditions, Nepal has developed its own delicious cuisine that delights the taste buds of visitors from around the world. Now you can actually learn how to do traditional Nepali cooking from a skilled Nepali chef!

Each half-day session takes you from the market to the finished product. It begins with a trip to the market where you experience how to barter for fresh vegetables and spices. A traditional marketplace is a colorful event with its many sights and sounds. Smell the aromas as it tickles your nose. Watch your guide demonstrate bartering skills as every item’s price is negotiated. There is an amazing cacophony of sounds and smells that make up the fun of the marketplace.

From here, return to the kitchen where you will cook five courses of traditional Nepali and Newari dishes. The two cultures produce very distinct foods. While some of it has blended itself, there is enough distinction to proclaim the merits of each cooking tradition.

You can choose from meat dishes to vegetarian and vegan recipes. Your master chef will instruct you on the use of the various spices that are unique to this culture. In just four hours, the guarded secrets of successful Nepali cooking will be revealed to you. Only a master Nepali chef can bring any recipe to a delicious conclusion, and under their tutelage, you will rise to flavorful distinction.

There are many Nepali local ingredients. Some are grown only in the High Himalayas while others are grown here in the Kathmandu Valley. Certain areas of Nepal produce certain types of crops, and your Master Nepali chef will show you how to select and properly use each ingredient in order to bring out the finest of flavors.

You will finish the course by feasting on sumptuous food that you have learned to cook. Now you can take this newfound knowledge home with you to amaze family and friends.

What's not included

Gratuities

Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)

Available languages

Guide guide

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