Garden of Dreams Tour and Thamel Shopping
Active
3h - 4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
In the midst of the commotion and cacophony of Kathmandu lie two places that feature the great dichotomy of Nepal: The Garden of Dreams and the famous Thamel Shopping District. With your personal guide, navigate the narrow streets and shops to find the finest of bargains, and then relaxing in the quietness of the Garden of Dreams.
Thamel is the mecca of shopping adventure. Its narrow streets are filled with people, rickshaws and activity. Musicians provide live entertainment as you walk from shop to shop. The narrow alleyways are filled with delightful shops that feature amazing jewelry, pashmina, rare books and food from around the world.
Then there is the Garden of Dreams. A beautiful, English garden with reflecting ponds, statues and hidden alcoves that is alive with colorful flowers. It was designed almost 100 years ago by one of the Ranas whose family ruled Nepal for just over 104 years.
Available options
Garden of Dreams Tour and Thamel Shopping
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Hotel pickup and drop-off
All Fees and Taxes
Professional Tour Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
No trip to Kathmandu is complete without diving into Thamel, the city's vibrant, colorful, and wonderfully chaotic heart! This is a "must-see" cultural hub and a shopper's paradise.
Our expert guide will lead you through its famous maze of spider-web alleys, helping you discover hidden gems you'd never find alone. Unearth treasures, from handcrafted jewelry and rare books to authentic Pashmina and yak wool.
But Thamel is more than shopping; it's a cultural explosion. We'll pass hidden Hindu and Buddhist temples where craftsmen and devotees share the same narrow lanes.
Then, when you're ready to escape, your guide will reveal the ultimate secret: Garden of Dreams. Step through a gate and leave the "cacophony" behind, entering a stunningly beautiful and peaceful neoclassical garden. This is your private oasis. Relax on the lush green lawns, find a quiet nook, and soak in the tranquility.
This "must-do" tour shows you both sides of Kathmandu: the thrilling energy and the serene calm.
2
Stop 2
This is not just a market; it's a "must-see" sensory explosion and the historic, beating heart of old Kathmandu. Asan, located at the ancient crossroads of old caravan routes, is the city's most vibrant and wonderfully chaotic traditional bazaar.
Your guide will lead you through this famous "six-street" intersection, where authentic Newari culture unfolds in a dazzling display. This is where real locals have shopped for centuries.
Prepare to be amazed by the sights, sounds, and smells: pyramids of colorful spices, mountains of rice and lentils, glistening copperware, and bright marigold garlands. Asan is also a major cultural and religious hub, with its own festival calendar and the hidden, central Annapurna Temple (Temple of the Goddess of Grains).
This is a "must-do" for photographers and anyone wanting to experience the real, unfiltered energy of Kathmandu's oldest marketplace.
What's not included
Gratitude (Recommended)
Food and Drinks
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
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Tripadvisor
4.0
2 reviews
5★
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Important information
Service animals allowed
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
Not Recommended for who lives inside Thamel. They can explore them-self.
Important notes
Guide will provide the ticket at the entry point.
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
