Kathmandu , Nepal

Patan and Bhaktapur Day Tour - 7 Hours

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About this experience

Patan and Bhaktapur Day Tour is ideal for tourists who have an extra day in Kathmandu at the beginning or end of their itinerary. A half day in Patan and a half day in Bhaktapur is just enough to see the highlights of two historical kingdoms. There are separate entrance fees for many of the attractions, but don’t worry, they are all included in the package price. Annapurna Foothills Treks and Expeditions will pick you up from your hotel at 10 am and drop you off at 4 PM. We provide an excellent tour guide who is knowledgeable about the city and its history. Our vehicles are air-conditioned, comfortable and driven by expert drivers.

Available options

Patan and Bhaktapur Day Tour - 7 Hours

Pickup included

What's included

• Transportation in private vehicle

• Qualified English speaking Tourist Guide

Detailed itinerary

The Bagmati River is the only thing that divides Patan from Kathmandu; but at one time these were separate kingdoms.Patan Durbar Square is one of seven UNESCO World Heritage sites in the Kathmandu Valley. Locals often refer to Patan by its Sanskrit name, 'Lalitpur', which means 'city of beauty', a fitting name as Patan is a hub of Buddhist and Hindu culture, full of religious art, temples, and monasteries. Patan Durbar Square holds the greatest concentration of Newari architecture anywhere in the valley.

In the fascinating narrow streets surrounding the square, there are more than 600 stupas. The Patan Museum is the restored palace of the 17th century Malla Kings and houses bronze statues and religious objects, some dating back to the 11th century. The gilded doors and windows open to the Krishna Mandir Temple which was built by King Siddhi Narasigh Malla in 1637 and is still in use. The temple has three floors and 21 golden pinnacles. The first floor enshrines Krishna, the second Shiva, and the third Lokeshwor.

Stop 2

Bhaktapur is an ancient Newari town about 12km east of Kathmandu. Founded in the 12th century, Bhaktapur rose to be the greatest of the Malla Kingdoms in the 15th century. Today it's Nepal's third largest city and famous for culture, temples and craft work. Bhaktapur literally translates to 'City of Devotees', and lives up to this name as it has more temples than either Kathmandu or Patan. Bhaktapur is like a living museum. It is a pleasant place to walk as the cobbled streets are free of traffic and full of temples, courtyards, squares, wells and courtyards. Tradition is alive in Bhaktapur; you can watch craftsmen producing their century old arts of pottery and wood carving. It's a great place to buy souvenirs to take home. The old ways of life can be seen on every corner of the town - rice being sun dried, collecting water from communal taps.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square is famous for the 55-Window Palace, which served as the seat of royalty prior to 1769. The windows and doors are elaborately carved and houses The National Art Gallery, with Buddhist Paubha scroll paintings, palm leaf manuscripts, and stone carvings. The Golden Gate of the palace opens onto the Taleju Temple, built in 1756, and the bell which has been rung to pay homage to the Goddess Taleju for centuries, and the Royal Bath, with its Golden Faucet.

The five-storey Nyatapola Temple is the tallest pagoda temple in Nepal. Dedicated to the Goddess Lakshmi in 1702, its struts, doors, windows, and tympanums are decorated with carvings of divine figures, including a pair of two- meter high stone statues of elephants, lions, griffons and a pair of tantric goddesses.

What's not included

• Tips for guide and driver

• Food and drinks

All Fees and Taxes

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN ZH-CN FR

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

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