Kathmandu , Nepal

Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour In Nepal

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About this experience

Find your inner peace and chant the mantra, along with the holy monks at the most spiritual Buddhist Pilgrimage in Kathmandu valley.

With our Buddhist pilgrimage tour in Nepal you can deeply understand the rudiments of Buddhism in Nepal. You will understand that Nepal is a true example of mix of culture and religion after you visit the major Buddhist Pilgrimage sites. While the major population of the country is Hindu, it is an amazing fact that Buddha was born here and so Buddhism is pervasive in most corners of the Nepalese culture. Visit the three major Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Kathmandu valley like the Boudhanath Stupa, see the amazing structures at the Swayambhunath Temple or popularly referred to as the “Monkey Temple and uncover the peace at the famous Kapan Monastery. Experience the bliss and enlightenment that our Kathmandu Pilgrimage Tour has to offer.

Available options

Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour In Nepal

What's included

All ground transportation in private comfortable vehicles

All government and local taxes

Staff salary, insurance

Fully, trained English speaking professional tour guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The tour guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel. Boudhanath Stupa lies around 4 miles away from the heart of Kathmandu city. It is also one of the largest stupa in the world, and one of the main centers for Kathmandu Buddhist Tour in the Kathmandu valley. Boudhanath Stupa has been listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, surrounded by Tibetan settlers; the place gives you a feel of a small Tibetan village. While you are there walk around the stupa and spin the Mani wheels (prayer wheels) and find your inner peace among the many monks who chant prayers in unison.

We will head off to another major Buddhist Pilgrimage site in Kathmandu Valley, after we cut across the daytime traffic; we reach the famous Kapan Monastery. Kapan Monastery is a Gelug tradition of Tibetan Mahayana Buddhism and is guided by Lama Zopa Rinpoche, it houses over 360 monks, lamas, teachers and other workers. There are visitors from all over the world, who come here to attend Buddhisum courses and enjoy the spiritual atmosphere of the place for study and practice. The monestary is especially famous for teaching Buddhism to visiting Western foreigners and visitors. It is also one of the main Buddhist Pilgrimage Sites, which runs a nunnery with 360 nuns, many of them refugees from Tibet. Apart from the spiritual environment, the monastery also offers and excellent view of the Kathmandu Valley.

Stop 3

From Kapan Monastery, we will head over to Thamel for Lunch. We will reserve a table for you at The Ship Restaurant and bar, where you can enjoy a delicious meal of traditional Nepalese Dal-Bhat (Lentil soup, rice, seasonal vegetables and meat) or any western meal of your choice.

Finally after a hearty lunch, we will be driving to Swayambhunath Temple our major attraction of the Kathmandu Pilgrimage Tour. Swayambhunath is situated on a hilltop rising above the Kathmandu city; you can spot it from afar as the crown of the temple glints in the afternoon sun, with all the prayer flags fluttering above it. Legend has it that once the entire valley was filled with water it was an enormous lake, out of which grew a lotus. Thus valley came to be known as Swayambhu, meaning "Self-Created." This is also an important stop for Buddhist pilgrims on their Kathmandu pilgrimage Tour. Climb up the 365 steps to reach the “Swayambhunath” Stupa, it is also popularly known as the “Monkey Temple,” as it is home to troops of mischievous primates.

What's not included

Nepal Visa fee (bring accurate USD cash and two passport photograph)

Meals and accommodations in Kathmandu

Any optional activities other than above included ones during free time

Tips for staffs

Services not mentioned in the ‘Trip Cost Included’ section

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

26 reviews

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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

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