Kathmandu , Nepal

City of Temples to the Lap of Annapurna

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About this experience

Kathmandu and Pokhara are the most popular valleys in the southern slopes of the Himalayas. While Kathmandu is a crowded city and cultural center of Nepal with people from all over the country looking for opportunity, Pokhara has the best Himalayan view with three beautiful lakes in its vicinity. In Kathmandu we enjoy the cultural marvels and discover ancient Hindu and Buddhist relics with visits to several UNESCO Listed World Heritage Sites scattered around Kathmandu Valley. In Pokhara we visit to watch the beautiful show of sunrise over Annapurna range and after breakfast we visit Davis Fall, Gupteswor Cave, Mountain Museum and Tibetan Refugee Camp. This tour is best option for those who want to see and understand Nepal in their short visit.

Available options

City of Temples to the Lap of Annapurna

Pickup included

What's included

All ground transportation in comfortable private vehicles

All breakfast and Farewell Meal

6 nights hotel stay in Kathmandu and Pokhara

Professional Tour guide

Detailed itinerary

Today after breakfast you are in leisure on your own. You will be escorted to airport for your flight home at your flight time.

Stop 2

You will be warmly welcomed at Kathmandu Airport and our car will drop you to your hotel where you have rest of the day at leisure on your own.

Stop 3

Swoyambhunath Temple is said to be 2000 years old is a perfect architecture of gilded spire and white washed dome located under thousands of fluttering prayer flags.

Stop 4

After you enjoy your breakfast, your guide will meet you in your hotel and you will go for sightseeing to Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhu Temple, Pashupatinath and Boudhanath Stupa, all being the UNESCO Listed World Heritage Sites and you will get chance to see and understand the religion, culture and history of Nepal. Around 1 pm we will stop for lunch on the way somewhere.

Stop 5

Boudhnath Stupa: This enormous stupa is where thousands of pilgrims gather daily to make a ritual circumnavigation of the dome, beneath the watchful eyes of the Buddha, which gaze out from the gilded central tower. This is one of the few places in the world where Tibetan Buddhist culture is accessible.

Stop 6

Pashupatinath, a pagoda style Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is considered to be the powerhouse of Hindu spiritual power in religious terms.

After your breakfast in the hotel, your guide will meet you in your hotel and drive to Pokhara, another beautiful valley 200 km west of Kathmandu, popular for its lakes and Himalayas.

Stop 8

This is your full day in Pokhara. You will get a wake up call early in the morning and freshen up and our guide will take you to Sarangkot, just 45 minutes drive from Pokhara city. From Sarangkot you will have an amazing view of sunrise over Annapurna range. Then drive back to Hotel to have your hot buffet breakfast and drive to other sightseeing places in Pokhara-Davis Fall, Gupteswor Cave, Mountain Museum and Tibetan Refugee Camp.

A water that disappears under ground

A natural cave where Devis Fall appears after disappearing underground

A mountain museum

An old temple with historical importance

Stop 13

After breakfast you bid goodbye to beautiful Pokhara and drive along the river banks and terraced fields, to Kathmandu. On the way you will stop for lunch. Our driver will drop you to your hotel in Kathmandu where you freshen up and relax.

Stop 14

Breakfast in the hotel and you drive to Bhaktapur and Patan Durbar Square along with your guide. In the evening you have farewell dinner in a traditional Nepalese Restaurant with company representative.

Patan Durbar Square is one of the three royal cities in the valley. A paradise of fine arts, Patan is filled with wood and stone carvings, metal statues, ornate architecture, including dozens of Buddhist and Hindu temples, and over 1200 monuments.

Stop 16

Tourist hub in Kathmandu

International airport in Kathmandu

What's not included

Entry fee to sightseeing places

Meals not mentioned in inclusions

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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