Kathmandu UNESCO World Heritage Tour (Full Day)

Kathmandu , Nepal

Kathmandu UNESCO World Heritage Tour (Full Day)

Active

5h - 8h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This tour provides a highlight of the major UNESCO world heritage sites in Kathmandu and provides an in depth view of the rich heritage of the city.
Try your luck at tossing a coin into the Swayambunath fountain for good luck and don't forget to circumnavigate the Boudanath Stupa with the Buddhist pilgrams

Available options

Kathmandu UNESCO World Heritage Tour (Full Day)

Languages other than English

What's included

Included is a light lunch at a rooftop restaurant adjacent to Boudanath Stupa with great views of the temple and its surrounds

Bottled water

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Walk through the historical capital of Kathmandu Durbar Square, also know as Hanuman Dhoka Square. We visit Trailokya Mohan Narayan Temple, The Basantapur Tower, Kal Bhairav, Ashok Vinayak, Kabindrapur, Taleju Temple, Kotilingeshwara Mahadev Temple, Indrapur and Vishnu temples and the courtyard of the Kumari Bahal. Whilst here call the Kumari's name and if you are lucky you may just catch a glimpse of the living goddess.

Stop 2

The Swayambhu temple sits atop a hill in the Kathmandu Valley with panoramic views of the city below. This complex is home to a troop of monkey who roam the complex at will. If you are game you can climb the 365 steps to the stupa or for the less adventurous we can drive you to the top gates where you can visit with the climb

Stop 3

One of the largest temples of its type, Boudhanath Stupa is a pilgrimage site for thousand of Buddhist devotees every day.
For good luck, don't forget to circle the Stupa three times in a clockwise direction.
For a different perspective we stop for a basic lunch at a rooftop restaurant which provides a birdseye view of the Stupa and its activities

Stop 4

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Pashupatinath Temple is a sacred Hindu temple complex built on the banks of the Bagmati River. The temple itself can only be visited by Hindu's.
For non Hindu's the highlight of this complex are the open air cremation ghats along the Bagmati River when daily funeral piers are let to send the departed to the afterlife

What's not included

Temple Fees are not included in the tour bring your passport as prices vary according to nationality

Available languages

Guide guide

HI DE KO CMN JA EN IT FR ES

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

part of this tour will involve climbing steps, most can be avoided with the exception of Swayambunath so individuals can choose to wait at the entrance if they are not comfortable climbing steps

Meeting point

We meet in the courtyard of the Black Olives cafe on Chaksibari Marg in Thamel for an 8:30 am departure.
Many customers choose to have a coffee or light breakfast at the Black Olives beforehand.

Important notes

It is important to bring along your passport as entrance fees vary according to nationality

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