Full Day Kathmandu Tour - 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Kathmandu , Nepal

Full Day Kathmandu Tour - 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites

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4h - 6h

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About this experience

Kathmandu one day tour offers you a sprinkling of things to explore around Kathmandu valley. Kathmandu is a famous destination for historical and cultural exploration. During this one day tour, you will visit 5 of the UNESCO world heritage sites ( Swyambhunath Stupa, Bouddhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, Basantapur Durbar Square and Patan Durbar Square). You start your tour from Swyambhunath stupa famously known as Monkey temple. This temple is a perfect blend of Hinduism and Buddhism. After exploring chaityas and stupas for a while, we will take you to Patan Durbar Square, which is the ancient Palace with a visually stunning concentrated mass of temples of Newari Architecture. Then you head out to Boudhanath Stupa, with one of the oldest monument of Gautam Buddha which is said to be built around the 14th century. One of the major places to explore during the day is Pashupatinath temple which is a Hindu pilgrimage site. It is a temple complex which is the sprawling collection.

Available options

1 Day Kathmandu Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Experienced Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

Pasupatinath Hindus Biggest temple in Nepal and India.Pashupatinath temple is a famous Hindu pilgrimage site situated on the bank of Bagmati River. This temple is known to be the seat of Nepal's national deity.

It is a temple complex which is the sprawling collection of different temples, ashrams, and inscriptions raised over the centuries. The structures of the two-storey buildings here are built in pagoda style. This sacred place will connect you with the historically rich culture of Hindus with an aesthetically pleasing view of ancient architectures and exotic arts carved on those temples. Being the oldest known temple of Kathmandu it sheds light on the history and lifestyle of ancient Nepal.

Spending a few moments with the monks here and with the help of our guide, you will get the insight of Hindu philosophy and culture.

Stop 2

Boudhanath stupa is said to be built around the 14th century. The huge monument is said to have been created just after the passing of Buddha. The building consists of a giant dome, buddhist pyramid is situated on the top of its dome.. All of these are situated on the top of the step shaped mandalas. Pair of eyes have decorated each side of the pyramid.The directions represent the all-knowing nature of the Buddha. It one of the more spectacular Buddhist sites in the world.

The royal palace of Patan is an ancient and magnificent Durbar Sq. What makes this Durbar Square visually stunning is the concentrated mass of temples of Newari Architecture. The temple reconstruction had gone to overdrive during the Malla period (14th to 18th centuries), particularly during the reign of King Siddhi Narsingh Malla (1619–60). Ancient arts carved in the temples of this area with the deeply profound architectural structure are yet another sight to behold in Kathmandu. However, the reconstruction of temples affected by the 2015 earthquake will continue for several years.

Swayambhunath stupa is one of the holiest Buddhist Chaityas in Nepal. Legends has it that it is evolved spontaneously when the valley was created out of a primordial lake more than 2,000 years ago. This setup is the oldest of its kind in Nepal and has numerous shrines and monasteries on its premises. There is a saying that Swayambhu was born out of a lotus flower that bloomed in the middle of a lake that once spread across the Kathmandu Valley once was. Behind the hilltop is a temple dedicated to Manjusri or Saraswati - the Goddess of wisdom. Swayambhunath stupa complex is filled with chaityas and stupas and shrines of Hindu and Buddhist deities . which also shows the harmony between Hinduism and Buddhism. The prayer bells have surrounded this hill entirely. Devotees can be seen around the stupa at all time.

Stop 5

Visit Kumari Temple.

What's not included

Lunch

Monuments Entrance fees worth 30USD

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

10 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

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