Kathmandu City Tour

The capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu is located in the Bagmati province. With an area of 20 square miles, Kathmandu is one of the biggest as well as the most populated city of Nepal. Also known by the name Kantipur, It is one of the most popular kingdoms during the bise and the chaubise rule before the great king of Nepal Prithvi Narayan Shah unified all the small states into one. 

Kathmandu lies at an elevation of 1,350 meters above sea level, it lies about 200 kilometers away from the beautiful city of lakes Pokhara. Similarly, the distance from Kathmandu to Chitwan is about 150 kilometers. Kathmandu is also one of the most popular hubs to witness some of the ancient monuments as well as the historic architecture. Surrounded by the mountains Kathmandu lies at the confluence of the Bagmati river and Bishnumati river.

Kathmandu valley is one of the most popular places to witness the UNESCO World heritage sites of Nepal. Situated at such a short distance, 7 of the UNESCO World heritage sites lie inside Kathmandu. Above all of these heritage sites lies at a radius of 20 kilometers. Because of that Kathmandu is the city with the highest numbers of world heritage sites in the world when compared to any other cities of the world. 

Kathmandu Durbar Square is also known by the name Basantapur Durbar Square. Situated in the heart of Kathmandu, it is one of the most visited tourist sites of Nepal. There is always a huge crowd any time of the day. During the morning time many people visit Basantapur to pray to the gods. Meanwhile, during the day time it becomes one of the central points for all the tourists. In the evening, you can see busy people walking through the streets of the Kathmandu Durbar Square. 

Kathmandu Durbar Square is one of the ideal places to witness the centuries old art and architecture. During your visit you can notice the spectacular architecture and the skills of the newar artists as well as other craftsmen.  This durbar square holds the palaces of the kings of the Malla as well as the Shah dynasty of Nepal. Besides that you can also witness some of the temples, monuments and the amazing architecture. 

The name Kathmandu was derived from the beautiful temple Kasthamandap that lies inside the Basantapur Durbar Square, which was built in the 15th century. SOme of the popular places to visit inside the Kathmandu Durbar Square includes the Kal Bhairav Temple, Kumari Ghar, The royal palace, The Hanuman Dhoka Museum and many more.

Kumari Ghar

This ancient building houses the six year old “living goddess” revered by the people of Nepal. Each kumari is chosen based on 32 characteristics of physical perfection plus her horoscope.  Once the child is accepted she remains indoors at all times except for religious ceremonies.  Occasionally, she will briefly appear at the upper window.  Pictures of her are strictly forbidden.   

The most important festival for the Kumari is Indra Jaatra, a celebration of the harvest held in late August or early September. On the third day of the festival, the Kumari Devi is carried around Durbar Square in a chariot. ar. At regular times, it remains open from 9:00-12:00 noon and 4:00-6:00 pm.This Ghar was built in the year 1757 by the King Jaya Prakash Malla.

Kal Bhairav

Kal Bhairav is one of the major attractions inside the Kathmandu Durbar Square. An amazing art and statue of the god Kaal Bhairab can be seen in the middle of the Kathmandu Durbar Square. Huge numbers of people visit this temple every saturday. Besides that, huge numbers of devotees also visit this temple during other days of the week too. It is believed that if you worship Kaal Bhairab with a good heart then all of your wishes are fulfilled. 

Kala Bhairav is the terrifying avatar of Hindu god Shiva who is also called the Lord of Time and Death.The idol of Kal Bhairav is seen standing in a violent form, stepping over a dead body holding a decapitated head in one hand.  This avatar of Lord Shiva is fierce and unforgiving. He is mostly associated with vetala (ghouls) and pisaca (ghosts). The name 'Bhairava' literally means a terrifying form that is not afraid of anything. Thus, he can protect his devotees. He is also believed to be the supreme one after Lord Vishnu and can create, sustain and dissolve life on earth.

Hanuman Dhoka

Hanuman Dhoka is the ancient royal palace of the Shah dynasty of Nepal. This palace got its name because of the stone image of the Hindu deity Hanuman which is situated at the entrance gate of the palace. The eastern wing which consists of the 10 courtyards is believed to be one of the oldest which was built in the 16th century. Later on it was expanded by Partap Malla during the 17th century. 

As of now the Hanuman Dhoka durbar is made public for the locals. This ancient royal palace is now a museum. You can see the ancient art and architecture of the ancient time. Besides that, you can also witness some of the vintage photos and royal seats. You can also view the collections of the currencies that were used in the ancient times. This museum shows the lifestyle, childhood and the marriage ceremonies of the Kings and the Queen of Nepal. 

Kasthamandap

Kasthamandap is a 3 storied pagoda style temple which was built in the 16th century. It is also believed to be one of the oldest wooden buildings of the world. Built under the reign of king Laxmi Narsingha Malla, Kathmandu city got its name from this temple. Rich in history, Kasthamandap is one of the major places to witness the ancient architecture. It is one of the sites inside Kathmandu which is harmed by the devastating earthquake of 2015. As of now this temple is under construction and is expected to be completed soon.

This temple holds various myths. Besides that, it is also believed to be built during the Licchavi period in Nepal. This temple is one of the must visit places which was built by a single tree and was made completely out of the woods. This temple is devoted to Guru Gorakhnath, you can also witness the four statues of lord Ganesh around the temple.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square is one of the most popular durbar squares of Nepal. Located in the Bhaktapur district of Nepal. This durbar square reflects the art and architecture since the Licchavi era in Nepal. It is also the oldest durbar square among all the three durbar squares inside Kathmandu valley. There are various pagoda style Hindu temples inside the Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Besides that you can also witness some other statues and the monuments which were built by different kings centuries ago.

Situated 13 kilometers east of Kathmandu, you can reach Bhaktapur Durbar Square within 30 minutes from Tribhuvan International Airport. The remarkable architecture, the exquisite wood carvings and metal craft that can be seen around the city takes one back to the time of the Malla rulers who patronized art like no other dynasty. 

Besides that, don't forget to taste the “Juju Dhau” which is one of the most loved yogurt of Nepal. The meaning of juju dhau is the King of Curds. Most of the people living around the Bhaktapur Durbar Square are the Newars. Because of that you can witness the newari culture and traditions. Meanwhile, you can also taste various newari cuisines around the Bhaktapur Durbar Square.  

Nyatapola Temple

Nyatapola is a pagoda style temple situated inside the Bhaktapur Durbar Square. This five storied temple is also the major highlight inside this durbar square. Beside that you can also witness the remarkable architecture of the temple. This is one of the tallest pagoda style temples of Nepal which was built by the King Bhupitendra Malla during the early 17th century. This culturally and historically rich monument is one of the very few temples inside the Bhaktapur Durbar Square that survives the destitating earthquake of 2015. 

Lion’s Gate

Now converted into a National Art Museum, the magnificent and beautiful gate of two stone lions guarding the entrance to the palace was built by artisans whose hands were said to have been severed upon completion by the envious Bhadgoun king so that no more of such masterpieces could be reproduced. This gate was built in the 17th century with the belief that it will protect the ancient city of Bhadgaon. Meanwhile the sculpture of Lord Bhairav and his consort Goddess Ugrachandi are also installed behind the statue of the Lions.  

55 Window Palace

Built by Bhupiendra Malla about 300 years ago. However it was completed until 1754 during the reign of Jaya Ranjit Malla. It is now one of the most popular sites inside the Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Although no visitors are allowed inside this beautiful palace, you can still witness the amazing woodcarving and the architecture of this palace from outside. This 55 window palace was built for the 55 wives of the king. Every queen allocated or dedicated a window, which shows the inclusion and fairness of the ruler. 

Golden Gate

The Golden Gate is one of the protected areas inside the Bhaktapur Durbar Square. The gate literally is made up of gold. Besides that it is the entrance point of the temple. Only hindus are allowed to go inside there. But the inner part of the temple is abandoned and no visitors can visit this part of the Temple. Inside the Golden gate you can also see a small pond which was used by the kings and the queens in the ancient time. Also known by the Lu Dhowka, the figures of hindu goddess Kali and Garunda can be seen in the Gate.

Patan Durbar Square lies in Lalitpur district of Nepal. The square floor of this durbar square is tiled with red bricks. Besides the ancient palace, you can also witness many idols as well as the temples. The handcrafted sculpture as well as the wood carvings are also the main highlights of the Patan Durbar Square. 

Patan Durbar Square lies in the Patan city of Nepal, about 8 kilometers south-east of Kathmandu city. It is believed to be founded during the 3rd centuries. Besides that it is a must visit place to witness the beautiful Newari craftsmanship. Beautiful stone works can be enjoyed all over the Patan Durbar Square. There are 3 main courtyards or the chowks inside the Patan Durbar Square. Mul chowk, Sundari chowk and Keshav Narayan Chowk are the three most popular chowks of this durbar square.  

Krishna Mandir

Krishna Mandir is one of the most beautiful Shikhar style temples built in the 17th century by the king Siddhi Narshing Malla. It is one of the most popular places inside the Patan Durbar Square. Besides that, Krishna Mandir is also the biggest temple of Nepal built in the Shikhar style. Above all do not forget to witness the crafts inside the Krishna Temple while visiting the Patan Durbar Square. Believed to be made by a single stone, huge numbers of devotees visit this temple during the Krishna Janmashtami festival.  

Golden Temple

Golden Temple, locally known as Hiranya Varna Mahavihar is one of the significant temples inside the Patan Durbar Square. These temples reflect the newari culture and show the beautiful architecture of the ancient time. This finest architecture of the Newars is called the Golden temple because of the gold gilded pinnacles and walls. Both the Hindus and the Buddhist are found worshipping inside this temple. There is a statue of the Gautam Buddha and many other statues of hindu gods. The caretakers of this temple are called the Bapacha of the gods. 

Patan Museum

Patan Museum is one of the must visit places inside the Patan Durbar Square. Inaugurated by the Late King Birendra Bir Bikram Shah in 1997, it has become one of the most popular places to witness the traditional sacred arts and architectural settings. Besides that, thi place also holds wide collections of artifacts. Patan Museum especially holds the art and sculpture of the ancient time. If you are into history and artefacts then it is a must visit place during your visit to Patan Durbar Square.

Pashupatinath temple is the most popular hindu temple of Nepal. Located inside the Kathmandu valley, Pashupatinath temple lies beside the Bagmati river. Bagmati river is one of the major as well as the holy rivers of Nepal. This temple is dedicated to hindu god Lord Shiva and is one of the four most important religious sites in Asia for the devotees of Lord Shiva. Pashupatinath temple was built in the 5th century and later renovated by the Malla kings. 

It is one of the most sacred hindu sites inside the Kathmandu valley. Meanwhile the non Hindus are not allowed inside the main temple of Pashupatinath. However, you can always choose to explore some of the interesting places around the surroundings of Pashupatinath Temple. The architecture and design of the monuments are beautiful, and it makes you wonder how people in the past were able to accomplish such a grand project without modern technology. A must-visit place especially for those who want to see the cultural heritage of Nepal.

This spiritual place is one of the peaceful palaces of Nepal. This place holds huge significance for the hindu religion. Besides that, Buddhist also pay a visit to this sacred place. During the Mahashivaratri festival, huge numbers of devotees visit this holy temple. Thousands of visitors from all over Nepal, India and many other countries pay a visit to this sacred temple. 

Swayambhunath is one of the most popular tourist sites of Nepal. Situated at a hilltop, it is also popular by the name The Monkey Temple. As soon as you reach this heritage site, you will know the real region behind the name, The Monkeys are everywhere. It is a complex that has achieved worldwide fame thanks to its history and its incomparable beauty, which has made it one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country. In the valley of Kathmandu, on top of a hill, we find this wonder to which we must access through a staircase of 365 steps.

Situated at the top of the hill, you can have an amazing view of the Kathmandu valley from the top. Beside that, the calmness and the smell of Incense is sure to give you peace of mind. The main temple lies at the top of the hill, but you can also explore some other temples and monuments around the Swayambhunath area. Buddha Jayanti and Losar are two of the major festivals of Swayambhunath. Huge numbers of devotees visit Swayambhunath during these two festivals. 

Boudhanath is the most popular buddhist shrine situated about 11 kilometers in the northeastern side of Kathmandu. When you enter the gate you automatically feel peaceful looking at the white stupa. It's a really beautiful place buzzing with people all around. It holds a cultural value and a good tourist destination for a quick round. There are really beautiful restaurants and shops all around.

The enchanting prayers and the smell of the incense is sure to give you peace of mind. The Gompa is surrounded by various restaurants and souvenir shops. The area around the Boudhanath is clean and you will also get friendly and humble locals around the surrounding area. The original temple was said to have been built by an old woman and her sons, and historians date the current structure to the 14th century CE.

Boudhanath is the largest spherical Buddhist gompa of Nepal. This place is crowded almost throughout the day. But most of the visitors explore this place during the evening. Besides that, devotees come to take an evening walk around the stupa which is one of the major rituals here and called Kora by the locals. 

Changunarayan is one of the oldest temples of Nepal, located in the Bhaktapur district. Situated at the hill top you can also witness the marvellous views of the Kathmandu valley from the temple premises. Each stonework around the temple is a masterpiece. Besides that, it is believed to be built in the 5th century. Because of that it holds some of the vintage statues, arts and the architectural style. The oldest statue of Nepal is believed to be Birupakshya which is at the temple premises. 

The Changunarayan temple was established by King Mandev and his queen from the Licchavi dynasty. It is the centre of religion and faith to the hindus around the globe and it is full of arts of different nature. Dedicated to the hindu god Vishnu, Changunarayan is also known by the name Garuda Narayan. The major festival celebrated here is Teej, Haribodani Ekadashi and Naag Panchami. 

This double roofed temple, dedicated to lord Vishnu is only 18 kilometers away from Kathmandu and about 4 kilometers from Bhaktapur. Suitable for riding, cycling and even hiking, Changunarayan Temple is a must visit place during your visit to Bhaktapur. 

Kathmandu is a historically and culturally rich place of Nepal. Various centuries old monuments, arts as well as the architectural style can be seen in different parts of Kathmandu. Besides that, the 7 UNESCO world heritage sites inside Kathmandu are the most popular ways to witness these culturally, naturally as well as the historically rich places. 

Every visitor has to pay a certain fee before visiting any of the UNESCO world heritage sites inside Kathmandu valley. The fee is different according to the heritage site you visit and the nationality of the visitors. Besides that the cost is different according to the age of the individuals too. Here is the entry fee of all the UNESCO World Heritage sites inside Kathmandu valley. 

There are plenty of options to explore around Kathmandu valley. Besides the UNESCO World Heritage sites there are other popular places to explore around the Kathmandu valley. 

Narayanhiti Palace Museum

If you are interested in modern history this place can’t be ignored. The palace is fully in its original state if time has stopped in 2001 which makes visiting it an incredibly interesting experience. You can even see the bullet holes in the wall where the royal massacre took place. They are strictly prohibited to capture photos and not allowed to touch anything, but if you touch or take photos then you must pay a penalty and delete the photo as well.

After visiting this museum,you will get detailed information about the king's history including the family. Here you get a chance to see  what type of ornaments,dresses,coins used at the period of the king. Narayanhiti Palace Museum carries an important history of Nepal. Open to the general public after 2009 the total area of this palace is 38 acres or the 753 ropanis. 

Only water and a wallet are allowed inside the palace. Besides that, mobile phones, cameras, bags, snacks, chocolate etc are prohibited inside Narayanhiti palace museum. Click here to know in details about the history, do and don'ts, opening time, ticket price and many more things about the Narayanhiti Palace Museum

Garden of Dreams

Garden of Dreams is one of the most beautiful natural gardens situated near the Narayanhiti Palace Museum. Also known by the name Garde of six seasons, it is a neo classic garden that lies in the Kaiser Mahal of Kathmandu. Built in 1920 the total area of this garden is 6,895 square meters. The six pavilions which provide the gardens architectural framework are dedicated to six seasons of Nepal. But as of now only half of the original garden remains. 

Birds chirping, beautiful flowering, well maintained seats and the appropriate seating arrangements enhances the beauty of this garden. Garden of Dreams is an amazing place inside the busy streets of Kathmandu to skip the crowd and rest for a while. Meanwhile, This place is so quite spacious that you will not feel like you are inside Kathmandu. There is also a restaurant to have meals. It is one of the ideal places for hanging out, especially for couples. 

Chandragiri Hill

Chandragiri is one of the most popular hill stations of Nepal. Situated near the Kathmandu valley, it lies at an elevation of 2,551 meters above sea level. From the top of the hill you can see the panoramic views of the Kathmandu valley. Besides that you can also witness the marvellous views of the mountain ranges such as the Annapurna ranges, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Langtang Lirung and even the Everest. The Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple is situated at the top of the hill. This is where the great king of Nepal Prithivi Narayan Shah worshipped before conquering the Kathmandu valley. 

As of now, it is one of the most popular tourist sites near Kathmandu valley. After the establishment of the cable car, the number of visitors to the top of the hill started growing rapidly. This 2.5 km cable car takes 9 minutes to reach the top of the hill. Meanwhile you can hike to the top of the hill which will take about 3 hours. Besides that you can also take a 11 km off road drive to the top of the hill.

Besides that, the children upto 3 feet are free to enter. 40% off for the children above 3 feet and below 4 feet. 50% off for the differently abled person. 25% off for the citizens above 60 years. Similarly, 25% off for the students and expats. 

Kapan Gumba

Established in 1969, Kapan Gumba is a Tibetan buddhist monastery that lies near the Boudhanath. It is one of the most popular places for the western foreigners to practice or teach Buddhism. Kapan Gumba is one of the monasteries in Kathmandu where the Buddhist scriptures are read.  Besides that accommodation is available for students here.  Being close to Kathmandu, vehicles are easily available to reach this area.  

Situated at the edge, marvellous views of the Kathmandu valley can be seen from the premises of Kapan Gumba. It is a member of the Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition, an international network of Gelugpa dharma centers, and once served as its headquarters. A good place to visit for quick refreshment and morning walks. Keep in mind that it is a functioning monastery. There are restricted areas, a dress code and rules to conduct yourself by. 

White Gumba

White Gumba also known by the name Seto Gumba is a buddhist monastery situated at the top of  Druk Amitabha Mountain. Buddhism is a wonderful philosophy to know and the things you know from the visit of white monastery could be something great. White Gumba lies about 3.9 km from Swayambhunath stupa or ring road  in the west direction. It is also said to be the second largest Gumba in the world.

It is one of the beautiful places full of serenity, natural beauty, greenery and pine forest. Besides that, a great view of Kathmandu valley and surrounding hills can also be seen. Besides that, it is also a great place for recreation and an awesome escape from the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu. White Monastery's location is just perfect and you can also take a hike to reach the top of the hill. The high hill is another best spot for looking at the beautiful greenery of Kathmandu valley.

This village is covered by green hills and Tamang language is very popular in this place. Besides that this place is beautifully crafted with arts and sculptures. Above all entry fee is not required to enter this gumba but you need to be disciplined. 

Khokana

Khokana is one of the most beautiful newar towns situated in the southern part of the Kathmandu valley. It is an ideal place to witness the newar culture, tradition as well as the lifestyle of the newars. Besides that you can also have a glance of the religious practice, newar architecture, man made lakes, wells and many more. The town itself is an amazing place and you can have an amazing time roaming around the streets of Khokana.

Short 25 minutes drive from Bungmati will take you to this beautiful Newar village. Mustard seeds and mustard oil are the most popular things here. Besides that neighbourhood wine, newari nourishment and red cold are also some of the popular things here. The town got its name from the newari word Khokana,. The meaning of Khokana is ‘Telling while weeping at the same time’.

Kirtipur

Kirtipur is one of the oldest human settlement areas inside Kathmandu valley. Situated about 5 kilometers south west of the Kathmandu city, it is one of the five municipalities in the Kathmandu valley. Kirtipur got its name from the Sanskrit term, Kirti means glory whereas Pur means city. Because of that it is also known by the name city of glory. Kirtipur is a centre for the Newari culture and it was also recorded as the ancient capital of Nepal. 

Kirtipur is one of the most popular cities inside the valley to learn the traditional newari culture and traditions. Besides that there are several temples to see around and newari restaurants to taste the authentic newari dishes. The inner road of the Kirtipur is still made up of red bricks and you can also witness various traditional newari houses. 

Situated just 5 kilometers away from Kathmandu, Kirtipur is a must visit place near Kathmandu. It is also the same place where the great king of Nepal Prithivi Narayan Shah had to lose some of his brave warriors while capturing this town. Kritipur holds some of the significant history of Nepal and also has some of the vintage monuments, patis, statues and many more.

Being the capital of Nepal, Kathmandu is an amazing place to witness some of the historic sites. Besides that it is also an ideal place to learn the traditional newari culture and tradition. Some of the marvellous places of Nepal lie inside this city. Meanwhile 7 of the UNESCO World heritage sites also lie inside Kathmandu. Above all there are other popular places too inside the Kathmandu valley. Some other popular activities that can be done in Kathmandu are listed below.

Hiking

There are various hiking trails inside Kathmandu. During the hike you will go through the jungles of the conserved areas. Meanwhile, you can also take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and can go deep into nature. Besides that, you can also witness the marvellous views of the Kathmandu valley as well as the mountain ranges from different hiking points inside the Kathmandu valley. 

Some of the most popular hiking places inside Kathmandu valley include the Shivapuri Peak, Jamacho Gumba hike, Sundarijal, Champadevi, Chisapani, Nagarjun and many more. All of these places are excellent to get away from the overcrowded city and spend some quality time with nature. 

Taste Local Food

Kathmandu is a culturally enriched city of Nepal. The history of the valley and the traditions and culture are also the major highlights. But the most important thing here at Kathmandu is the street foods. Kathmandu is incomplete without tasting the local cuisines. Various types of local cuisines are available here. Among all momos are the most popular food that you should try while in Kathmandu.

The street foods of Kathmandu are just amazing. With a variety of options and flavours the streets of Kathmandu are a great destination for the foodies to enjoy the food of the mountainous region. Some other popular street foods of Kathmandu include Panipuri, thukpa, aloo chop, samosa, sel roti, choila, chatamari etc.

Mount Everest Flight

Mount Everest flight from Kathmandu is one of the most popular ways to witness the panoramic views of the mountain ranges without any demanding trek. Suring the mountain flight you can witness the marvellous views of the mountain ranges almost throughout the flight. The best part is that you can also have a close view of the highest peak in the world Mount Everest during the flight. 

The Everest flight is operated from Kathmandu only. The duration of the Everest flight is 50 minutes to 1 hour. Meanwhile, besides Everest some other mountain ranges that can be seen include the Makalu, Lhotse, Langtang Lirung, Gauri Shankar, Cho Oyu and many more. Every passenger will get a window seat to witness the jaw dropping views of the mountain ranges. Everest flight is a lifetime experience and a must do thing during your stay at Kathmandu.

Shop at the Ason and Mangal Bazaars

Exploring the Ason and Mangal bazaars is one of the must things to do during your stay at Kathmandu. You can get almost everything from street foods, spices, gifts, everyday goodies and many more. There are various shops you can roam around and buy the suitable goods that suit you. 

If you are not in the mood of shopping anything then also you can get various things to do here. This place is always crowded, especially during the evening time. During this time you will barely get a place to walk. But the most interesting thing is that you will get to know the true colours of Kathmandu while visiting these two places.

The Kathmandu sightseeing tour is an easy way to witness some of the historic as well as the amazing places inside Kathmandu valley. During your sightseeing tour of Kathmandu you can experience the culture and spiritual rich temples, monasteries and many other places. 

Besides that it is also an amazing way to witness the majestic past of the country that is reflected in the country’s spectacularly preserved heritage sites. Below are some of the most popular Kathmandu Sightseeing tour packages to choose among and have a great time in Kathmandu.

Kathmandu Sightseeing day tour is an ideal choice to witness some of the UNESCO world heritages sites inside Kathmandu valley. During the day you can witness 4 of the heritage sites inside Kathmandu valley. It also offers a unique blend of cultural practices, lifestyle, heritages, historical monuments and religious places. This day tour is an ideal choice to witness the variety of cultural sites inside the Kathmandu valley. Pashupatinath, Swayambhunath, Boudhanath and Kathmandu Durbar Square are the sites that you will explore during the day.

This whole trip will take about 8 hours to complete. You will start after breakfast and take a private drive to reach these places. These centuries old monuments are amazing and there are various interesting facts about these sites that you will get to know during the day. You can also choose to add or remove the places that you are willing to visit during the day.

Kathmandu monastery sightseeing tour is one of the amazing tour packages to witness some of the most popular buddhist sites inside Kathmandu valley. During the day you will get to witness four of the most popular buddhist monasteries throughout the day. With the help of our professional guide, you will get to know in detail about these popular monasteries inside the Kathmandu valley.

Boudhanath, Swayambhunath, Kopan Monastery and White Gumba are the four Buddhist monasteries that you will be exploring during the day. Kathmandu monastery's sightseeing day tour helps you to understand the medieval history, cultural, religious and recreational attributes. Explore the wonderful monasteries in Kathmandu valley certainly full of joy and learn about the cultural and religious values of these monasteries.

Kathmandu Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square and Patan Durbar Square are the three durbar squares inside Kathmandu valley. The meaning of durbar squares are the royal palaces of the past. Before the unification of Nepal, there used to be various small kingdoms, all of these durbar squares were the parts of Nepal before unification. Temples, courts, idols, statues and many others are the parts of durbar squares. Besides that, durbar squares are the perfect examples of the life and style of the ancient kingdom.

Nepal was once a divided land that had many small and large kingdoms with their own monarchs, and the Durbar Squares were the ruling seat of royal power. The three Durbar Squares are the most prominent remnants of the old kingdoms of Nepal and all three of them are listed under the UNESCO World heritage sites. During the day you will explore all of these 3 durbar squares and can enjoy knowing the history of Nepal and witness the centuries old monuments.

Khokana Bungamati day tour from Kathmandu is an ideal choice to witness the newari culture and traditions. Both of these villages are the classic medieval villages that lie about 10 kilometers away from Kathmandu. The composition of the culture and the history of these two villages dates back to the 16th century. Besides that you will also get to explore the villages and newar houses during the day. Untouched by modernity both of these villages are excellent places for the cultural tourists.

You can see many craft workshops and showrooms around these villages. Besides that, on this day trip, travelers can admire historical arts along with the spiritual insight of Bungamati Culture Museum, Dey Pukha (central pond), Rudrayani Temple and Sikali Mai Temple. You will get a two way private ride throughout the day. Besides that you will also get a local expert who will brief you about the culture, tradition and history of the villages.

Kirtipur is one of the oldest newari towns that lies about 8 kilometers away from Kathmandu. Filled with several temples, monasteries and sightseeing places, it is an ideal choice for the short day tour from Kathmandu. Kirtipur is an ideal choice for the tourists who are interested in architecture, culture, history and religion. Chilancho stupa, Tri ratna temple, Dev puku, Bagh bhairab temple and shri kirti vihara are some of the must visit places while exploring kirtipur. 

You will start the Kirtipur day tour after breakfast. You will take a private drive to reach Kirtipiru. You will take a private ride through the balkhu road. You will have a full day tour of the Kirtipur village, where you will be visiting some of the most popular sites inside Kirtipur. Besides that you can also take a visit to the Chovar. The day tour is flexible and you can add or remove some of the places you are willing to visit. 

With a variety of tour packages, you can choose the tour package that fits you. Besides that you can always ask for a custom made tour package according to your time and requirement. We are more than happy to make a tailor made itinerary for you. During your Kathmandu sightseeing tour, all the entrance fees are included. 

Kathmandu is a heaven for the foodies. Various types of Nepalese foods are available for the travellers to taste during the Kathmandu sightseeing tour. There are plenty of good restaurants around the valley to taste the authentic Nepali dishes. Besides that there are also various mouth watering street foods available to taste during your tour. The most popular Nepali food is Dal, Bhat and Tarkari. Besides that there are also some of the popular Newari Dishes to try around Kathmandu. 

Newari Foods

The majority of the population living in Kathmandu are the newars. Because of that, there are a variety of options for the Newari dishes to taste. Plenty of Newari restaurants are available to taste the authentic newari cuisines. Here are few of the most popular newari dishes.

Street Foods

The good restaurants and the streets of Kathmandu is also a favourite place for the hungry traveller. Kathmandu is one of those few places of Nepal which offers a lods of items of the local cuisines. The street foods of Kathmandu are sure to provide you with a variety of flavours. Some of the popular street foods of Kathmandu are listed below. 

Kathmandu is a gem for the history as well as the culture. Besides that you will also get to witness some of the ancient historic sites as well as some of the ancient architectural styles. Besides the cultural and historic places there are also lots of places near Kathmandu for the overnight stay. 

Nagarkot

Nagarkot is one of the most popular hill stations of Nepal that lies at an elevation of 2,175 meters above sea level. Situated about 32 kilometers east of Kathmandu, it is a popular place near Kathmandu to stay overnight. Marvellous sunrise and the sunset view can be seen from the Nagarkot hill tower. Besides that, people also visit Nagarkot to witness astonishing views of the mountain ranges. 

Sukute

Sukute lies about 70 kilometers away from Kathmandu in the Dolakha district of Nepal. There are plenty of good hotels in Sukute, because of that many domestic tourists visit this place during the weekend. As of recent days it has become one of the most visited weekend getaway for the youths as well as for family trips. Away from the madding crowd you can also have a rafting in the Bhotekoshi river during your trip to sukute.

Chitlang and Markhu

Chitlang and Markhu are getting a lot of popularity in recent years. Many travellers are choosing these destinations in recent days because there are plenty of options for the good hotels and packages at Chitlang and Markhu. Markhu is situated near the Kulekhani Dam also known by the name Indra Sarovar lake. Because of that you can also taste the local fish as well as spend quality time boating in this peaceful place. 

Talking about Chitlang, it is one of the ancient Newari towns. You can still witness some of the vintage water taps, monuments, statues and many more during the Chitlang trip. Besides that it also used to be the ancient trading route to join Kathmandu valley to the Terai region of Nepal. 

Chisapani

Chispani is another popular destination for overnight stay. Beside that it is also a perfect hiking place near Kathmandu. The hike to Chispani starts from Sundarijal and you will go inside the conservation area to reach Chisapani village. The meaning of Chisapani is the cold water and as soon as you reach the village you will know the reason behind its name. Away from the crowd it is a perfect destination to spend quality time with nature. Besides that marvellous views of the mountain ranges can also be seen during the hike to Chisapani. 

Dhulikhel

Situated about 30 kilometers away from Kathmandu, it is one of the most popular weekend getaways from the valley. You will also get to witness the Sanga Temple during your route to Dhulikhel. Sanga is popular for the tallest statue of lord shiva. Dhulikhel is an amazing getaway place near Kathmandu to skip the busy life and witness the astonishing views of the mountain ranges. 

Namobuddha

Namobuddha is yet another place to witness the marvellous views of the mountain ranges. Situated about 42 kilometers away from Kathmandu, it is one of the most popular buddhist pilgrimage sites. Besides the calmness of the area, you will also get to explore the Namobuddha Monastery. It is a perfect getaway location for religious purposes mainly.

We at Altitude Himalaya provide some of the well experienced as well as local tourist guides for all kinds of day tours as well as trips inside Kathmandu valley. Besides that, we also provide a variety of options for other tours outside Kathmandu valley. The cost of the local guide at Kathmandu differs according to the language they can speak. Below is the list of the local guide fee per day. 

Our local tourist guides make sure of your safety as well as the enjoyment throughout your trip. Besides that, our tourist guide will explain in detail about the places you will visit and the history of the place and the significance of the specific place.

There are certain do’s and don'ts while exploring this beautiful historically rich city of Nepal. If you are planning to explore the Kathmandu city of Nepal then here are the few travel tips that might help you. 

1. Always carry plenty of water with you.

2. Always wear a mask

3. Open your shoes or slippers before entering religious places like monasteries, temples etc.

4. Don't miss hiking during your stay near Kathmandu.

5. Don’t wear too short an outfit.

6. Public affection is not accepted in Nepal.