Local Bazaar Walking Tour in Kathmandu with Professional Guide
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Gain a deeper understanding of Nepal's history and culture as you walk the streets of the Old Asan Bazaar with a private guide on this walking tour. Learn about the impressive design of the city's "Chhen" (private mansion), discover the significance of historical sites, admire handmade crafts sold at the market in Asan and Indra Chowk Bazaars. By walking the same paths that the locals do, you will be genuinely immersed in the Old Asan lifestyle.
Available options
Local Bazaar Walking Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Walking Sightseeing
Expert Tour Guide
Driver
Air-conditioned vehicle
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
After pickup at your Kathmandu hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle, head with your private guide to the Old Asan and Indra Chowk Bazaar, two bazaars in the historic section of Kathmandu. These markets make up one of the busiest marketplaces in the Kathmandu Valley.
Follow your guide on a walk along the narrow alleyways of Asan to see how modern life mixes with the ancient architecture of the area. Hear about Old Asan and Indra Chowk's history from your guide as you pass by renowned sites. Indra Chowk is an area lined with residential neighborhoods and bustling local markets selling fruit, vegetables, spices and stunning wares made of brass, bronze and copper.
2
With your guide, continue exploring the area of Newroad Indrachok, Packed with colorful shops and stalls, Indra Chowk is a centuries-old market area. There’s a wide range of places for produce, aromatic spices, and textiles, plus a specialist market selling beads, bangles, and ornaments for traditional Nepali weddings. Temples include Seto Machhendranath, with its intricate wood carvings, and Aakash Bhairav guarded by lion statues. Street food stands serve up fried momo dumplings.
Your tour ends with a private transfer back to your Kathmandu hotel.
What's not included
Gratuities
Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
Personal expenses
Insurance
Lunch
Entrance Fees (If required; either most of local area doesn't required the entry fees.)
Tips for Guide and Driver
Available languages
Guide guide
JA
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
2 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
2 reviews
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Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses and sunscreen are highly recommended
Please bring at least 1 liter of drinking water per person
Not recommended for participants age of 75+
Kindly provide us the name of Hotel inside Kathmandu city ring road for pick up and drop off service. Pick up from hotels located at outside of ring road will charge addition.
Important notes
• Please note: entrance tickets and transport included. This voucher will not be accepted if presented directly at the venue.
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Not recommended for participants with back problems
• Not recommended for participants age of 75+
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
