Boudhanath & Pashupatinath Half Day Tour in Kathmandu

Kathmandu , Nepal

Boudhanath & Pashupatinath Half Day Tour in Kathmandu

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About this experience

Hinduism and Buddhism are the two main theological pillars that have shaped present-day Nepal. Their origins in Nepal are shrouded in a mystery that dates back thousands of years. Today UNESCO has declared Boudhanath and Pashupati as two of the most important religious and historical sites in the Kathmandu Valley.

Boudhanath is the largest Buddhist stupa in all of Asia. An immense stupa rising over 36 meters in height and is the center of Tibetan Buddhist worship in Nepal. Boudhanath attracts thousands of pilgrims from around the world each year.

Pashupati is the most sacred Hindu site in Nepal and one of the most sacred Hindu places in the world. There are nearly 500 temples along both banks of the sacred Bagmati River in Kathmandu.

Available options

Boudhanath & Pashupatinath Half Day Tour in Kathmandu

Pickup included

What's included

Professional English speaking tour guide

Required entry fee and local taxes

Pick up drop off to/from hotel inside ring road

A/C private vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Boudhanath Stupa is one of the largest mandalas that is 36 meters tall with over 50 gompas constructed around it. It is one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites for the religious as well as tourism purposes. It is enlisted as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you enter the premises of the Boudhanath, you will see a substantial dome-shaped structure with fluttering prayer flags. These flags extend from the four corners hovering in the sky with the scent of incense sticks filling the atmosphere. If you reach the stupa at the time of prayer, then you will be spiritually taken away with the chimes and prayer sounds. There are many pictures of Buddhas around the stupa, and also the prayer wheels surround the stupa. Aside from these aspects of Boudhanath Stupa, you will find many eateries and souvenir shops in the region.

There is a famous Thanka center in the area of Bouddhanath. Thanka shows the traditional Buddhist Philosophy in terms of art. Learn about Buddhist philosophies, histories and practices there. Also, you can get souvenirs like the healing bowl and traditional Thanka paintings from Boudha Stupa Thanka Center.

Stop 3

We will take you to the sacred UNESCO Heritage site Pashupatinath. One of the famous UNESCO sites, Pashupatinath is the sacred Hindu temple in Nepal. It is located in the bank of the Bagmati river.

Stop 4

Pashupatinath temple is one of the largest temple complexes of Nepal. It houses more than 500 temples and shrines in the area. The temple complex of Pashupatinath which covers 0.64 hectares of land, is dedicated mainly to Lord Shiva with the temple of other deities surrounding the main temple. It is also listed as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The central temple architecture is a pagoda-style with beautiful wooden carvings and gold-covered two levels of roofs. There is also a big bronze statue of a bull facing the main entrance of the temple in the main temple complex. Other than the temples, you will find Sadhus performing daily rites on the bank of the river and discover the process of Hindu cremation on the banks of the river. There are platforms created in the banks of Holy river Bagmati for the cremation ceremony.

After your trip, you will be dropped to your hotel.

What's not included

Food and drink

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Dress code is formal

Important notes

• Dress code is formal

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