Full Day Dakshinkali temple, Pharping and Newari Town Kirtipur Day Trip

Kathmandu , Nepal

Full Day Dakshinkali temple, Pharping and Newari Town Kirtipur Day Trip

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About this experience

Ever wonder to visit less crowded but equally worthy spot near Kathmandu, book this with the experienced tour guide, private Hotel pick up and drop off and only actual sightseeing in a sharing basis.

Pharping, is the sacred site of Yangleshö, famous for both Hinduism and Buddhism where Padmasambhava (Guru Rimpoche, known as lotus born God who spread Tibetan Buddhism in Tibeat) attained the level of Mahamudra vidyadhara.

Other important religious sites are Vajrayogini temple, Shesnarayan temple, Gorakhnath temple and self-arising Ganesh near Asura Cave.

Further south lays Dakshinkali temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. Devotees sacrifice chickens, goats, sheep and many more as an offering to the goddess. Dakshinkali is famous as a blood thirsty incarnation of goddess Parvati, consort of Shiva.

Come to Kirtipur for exquisite architecture, hilltop temples, and sweeping city views. Kirtipur offers some of the finest views of sprawling Kathmandu and the hills and mountains beyond.

Available options

Full Day Dakshinkali temple, Pharping and Newari Town Kirtipur Day Trip

Pickup included

What's included

Tour Guide Fee

All transfer between sightseeing spots by a vehicle in sharing basis

Hotel pick and drop off by a private vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

10:00 am: Pick up from your hotel by English speaking driver and transfers you to Chovar. Meet and greet with your guide, join the group and drive for Dakshinkali at approximately 10:30 am.

By 11:30 am, you will start sightseeing Dakshinkali Temple.

The blood-soaked temple of Dakshinkali, a favourite Hindu pilgrimage destination, is set at the confluence of two sacred streams in a rocky cleft in the forest. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Kali, the most bloodthirsty incarnation of Parvati. To satisfy the blood-lust of the goddess, pilgrims drag a menagerie of animals down the path to the temple to be beheaded and transformed into cuts of meat by the temple priests, who are also skilled butchers.

At 01:00 pm, reach Pharping and start sightseeing of Asura Cave, self-arising Ganesh, Vajrayogini temple, Shesnarayan temple, Gorakhnath temple.

At around 03:00 pm, drive back to Kiritpur Town.

Kirtipur is thought to be one of the oldest settlements in the valley. It’s a prime destination to learn about the Newar people, who are one of Nepal’s many distinct ethnic groups and the original inhabitants of the Kathmandu Valley. Come to Kirtipur for exquisite architecture, hilltop temples, and sweeping city views.
During this tour, you will visit Bagh Bhairab temple, Chilancho Stupa shrine, Uma Maheshwar temple, and a Theravada Buddhist monastery.

Trip ends at Kirtipur and private vehicle with English speaking driver will drop you back to your Hotel at around 4:30 pm.

What's not included

Any meals and drinks

Applicable Entrance fees (NPR 100 in Kirtipur)

Tips

Travel Insurance

Personal Expenses

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Hotels pick up and drop off by English speaking driver in a private vehicle inside Kathmandu city ring road. Hotels pick and drop off outside ring road in additional cost.

Transfer from Chovar to sightseeing spots in a sharing basis. (1 guide and 1 vehicle for the group)

Please note that the bloody river and temple of Goddess Dakshinkali may be distressing to some visitors

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