Buddhist Temple Day Tour
Active
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
Buddhist Temple Day Tour is an exclusive journey around the Buddhist temple in Kathmandu. A knowledgeable tour guide will definitely help you to understand Buddhism and its various schools. This journey is absolutely crucial in order to explore the legacy associated with Buddhism. Another attraction of a Buddhist temple day tour is you have the chance to observe art and architecture of the medieval period. During this Buddhist temple day tour, we explore all Major Buddhist temple and monastery around Kathmandu valley. During the Buddhist temple tour, you will get to know about Buddhist art and creative elements like Thanka painting, Mandala painting, and wood carving. This journey allows you to have in-depth observation and exploration of the Buddhist temple. Your knowledgeable guide divulges you with a sacred secret that is made unknown to ordinary people.
Available options
Buddhist Temple Day Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
All Fees and Taxes
Tour guide
Bottled water
Air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
We start early morning after breakfast. Your knowledgeable tour guide picks you from your hotel. First, drive to Swyombhunath stupa aka monkey temple which is located on the top of small hill few kilometers towards west from Kathmandu’s touristic area Thamel. The private car drops you at the foothill of Swyombhunath. We walk 365 steps uphill and reach on the top of Swyombhunath which offers 360 panoramic views of Kathmandu city. Swyombhunath stupa is one of the oldest monuments in Kathmandu. There are hundreds of stupa, monastery, and shrine. At the end of Swyombhunath, you visit Buddha Park where you can see three giants statue of Guru Rimpoche, Amideva Buddha, and Avalokiteshvara
2
Stop 2
The Bouddhanath stupa is the largest stupa of Nepal also it is one of the holiest sites of Tibetan. Bouddhanath stupa is a dome-shaped huge building that has Buddha's eyes painted in all four sides and the golden pinnacle is kept on the top. Boudhanath stupa is surrounded by monasteries and houses in a circular way. Upon Bouddhanath stupa visit you can have a visit to Thanka painting school and Monastery located at the premises of stupa. This 14th-century build stupa is enlisted in the UNESCO world heritage site.
3
The Kapan monastery is also located on the top of the small hillock in Kapan. This monastery is quite interesting to visit which offers the vast legacy of Mahayana Buddhism which Kapan Monastery is following since it's established in 1970 AD. Kapan monastery consists of several temples consists of a Prayer hall, Monks hostel, Library, Pond and Garden. This monastery teaches Buddhism to Monks and outside students. On a clear day, the Panoramic view of Kathmandu city is clearly seen from Monastery. After visiting Kapan Monastery we take launch at the cafeteria of a monastery with monks.
What's not included
Coffee and/or Tea
Lunch
Breakfast
Available languages
Guide guide
HI
DE
KO
CMN
JA
EN
IT
FR
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Important notes
The tour guide provides traveler directly to the sightseeing spots
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
