Full Day Kathmandu Sightseeing
Gallery image 2
Gallery image 3
Gallery image 4
Gallery image 5

Full Day Kathmandu Sightseeing

Active
3h - 7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Take a 6-hour fully guided day tour of Kathmandu and its surrounding valley, bounded by green mountain walls. This tour covers sightseeing in Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Swyambhunath, and Patan Durbar Square. Your tour will take you via private car to the essential sites around the city, immersing you in the area's history and culture.

Available options

Full Day Kathmandu Sightseeing

Pickup included

What's included

Private Car during sightseeing
Bottled water
Experienced Tour Guide
Two-bottle water

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

After breakfast drive to Pashupatinath Hindu Temple is the holiest of all the Shiva shrines in Nepal and is the abode of Lord Pashupatinath, the guardian spirit of Nepal. The temple of Pashupatinath is a sizeable double-roofed pagoda of brass and gilt; the gateway is plated with silver. It stands on the western bank of the Bagmati about five-kilometer northeast of Kathmandu and contains the sacred Linga of Lord Shiva. Before the temple stands an enormous gift figure of the bull Nandi, the mount of Shiva, flanked by a golden trident. There is a crematorium outside the temple by the side of the vast but narrow river, and the wood environments are dotted with small monuments. On the occurrence of the yearly festival of Maha Shivaratri (February/March), the temple is visited by thousands of believers including a large number of pilgrims from Nepal and India. The temple is also the site of several other festivals and rituals taking place throughout the year.

2
Stop 2

Boudhanath is a sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site in Nepal and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is located about 11 km from Kathmandu's city center and is one of the world's largest stupas. The stupa is approximately 100 meters long and stands about 36 meters tall.

Built-in the 14th century, Boudhanath is surrounded by monasteries, shops, and cafes. It is considered to be an important center of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. The stupa has a massive white dome with four pairs of eyes that symbolize the all-seeing nature of Buddha. It is also adorned with prayer flags and prayer wheels that devotees spin as they walk around the stupa clockwise, reciting mantras.

The stupa's base has a large circular walkway crowded with pilgrims and tourists. The area has monasteries and shops selling Buddhist artifacts, prayer beads, and other souvenirs. Boudhanath is particularly significant for Tibetan Buddhists, who settled in the area after the Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1959.

3

Swayambhunath is an ancient Buddhist stupa located in the western part of Kathmandu city, Nepal. Also known as the "Monkey Temple", it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most sacred places for Buddhists and Hindus in Nepal. The stupa sits atop a hill, providing a panoramic view of the city below.

The stupa is believed to have been built over 2,000 years ago and is adorned with prayer flags, prayer wheels, and beautiful Tibetan-style architecture. It is surrounded by temples, shrines, and monasteries, as well as a large population of resident monkeys. Visitors can climb the 365 steps to the stupa, passing by the iconic Buddha eyes painted on the base of the stupa. Swayambhunath is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, who come to experience the spiritual and cultural significance of this ancient site.

4
Stop 4

Kathmandu Durbar Square is a historic public square located in the heart of Kathmandu, Nepal. It was once the site of the royal palace of the Malla and Shah kings who ruled over Nepal from the 12th to the 19th century. The square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to many ancient temples, palaces, courtyards, and statues.

The architecture in the square is a mix of traditional Nepali and Newari styles, with intricate woodcarvings, stone sculptures, and pagoda-style roofs. Visitors can explore the many temples and shrines, including the Taleju Temple, Kumari Ghar, and the Hanuman Dhoka Palace. The square is a cultural and historical hub, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to learn about Nepal's rich history and traditions.

What's not included

Momentum entrance fees
Tipping for guide and driver including personal expenses

Available languages

Guide guide
DE EN FR ES

Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Important notes

Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time

Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.

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

Adults
Age 10-60
1
Childs
Age 4-9
0
Infants
Age 0-3
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

Similar Experiences

Similar on Klook