Sightseeing city tour

Trip Duration 1

Max Altitude 1350m

Group Size 1 to 12

Best Time for Visit Whole Year

Trip Overview

Overview

A sightseeing city tour of Kathmandu is a captivating journey through the heart of Nepal, offering a rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty. This bustling capital city is a vibrant fusion of ancient traditions and modern life. It also makes it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique and immersive experience. The tour typically begins in the historic heart of Kathmandu, Durbar Square. Here, you'll also find a remarkable collection of palaces, temples, and shrines that showcase the city's royal and architectural heritage. The intricately carved wooden windows, pagoda-style temples, and the Kumari Ghar (residence of the living goddess) are among the highlights. The square is a bustling hub of activity and a microcosm of daily life in Kathmandu. A short walk from Durbar Square leads to the Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple. Perched atop a hill, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the surrounding valley. The stupa is a sacred pilgrimage site for both Buddhists and Hindus and is adorned with colorful prayer flags, intricate carvings, and the watchful eyes of the Buddha. Pashupatinath Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a significant Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located on the banks of the Bagmati River, it is a place of religious and cultural importance. Visitors can observe cremation ceremonies and witness the spiritual practices that take place along the riverbanks. Boudhanath Stupa is another iconic stop on the Kathmandu city tour. This massive dome-shaped stupa is one of the largest in the world and is a center of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. Pilgrims and visitors can circumambulate the stupa, spinning prayer wheels and soaking in the spiritual ambiance. The tour often includes a visit to Patan, one of the three ancient cities in the Kathmandu Valley. Known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, Patan Durbar Square is a testament to the city's artistic and architectural heritage. Kathmandu's city tour is incomplete without exploring the bustling markets of Thamel, a vibrant area filled with shops, restaurants, and cultural experiences. Here, you can shop for souvenirs, sample local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere.

Conclusion and Summary

In conclusion, a sightseeing city tour of Kathmandu offers an unforgettable journey through the heart of Nepal's capital, where history, spirituality, and modern life intersect. It's a chance to explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, interact with the friendly locals, and gain a deeper understanding of this extraordinary city and its unique blend of cultures. Whether you're a history buff, a spiritual seeker, or an adventurer, Kathmandu has something to offer for every traveler.

Trip Highlight

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage sites like Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square.
Visit Patan Durbar Square, another UNESCO World Heritage site that features temples, palaces, and other historic structures.
Learn about the rich history and culture of Kathmandu and Nepal through guided tours and cultural shows.
Experience the bustling energy of the city’s markets and bazaars, where you can find everything from handicrafts to spices.
Taste the local cuisine, which includes a variety of savory and sweet dishes that are unique to Nepal.
Meet friendly locals and learn about their daily lives and customs, adding to your understanding and appreciation of the local culture.
Explore the narrow streets and alleys of Kathmandu’s old town, which are filled with traditional architecture, shrines, and courtyards.
Visit the Hanuman Dhoka Palace, which is located in the heart of Kathmandu Durbar Square and was once the royal palace of the Malla and Shah Kings.
Learn about the traditional handicrafts of Nepal, such as thangka painting, pottery, and weaving, by visiting workshops and observing skilled artisans at work.
Attend a prayer ceremony at one of the city’s many Buddhist or Hindu temples, which can be a deeply spiritual and memorable experience.
Enjoy a traditional Nepali meal with a local family, gaining insight into their way of life and the importance of food in Nepali culture.

Itinerary

Kathmandu Durbar Square:

The mysterious tales that surround Katmandu Durbar Square along with its preserved art and architecture, history, and culture are noteworthy. The historic palace of Kathmandu is named after the Hindu monkey God, Hanuman. The crowning ceremony of the Kings of Nepal used to be conducted in the courtyard inside the palace. The statue of King Pratap Mall sitting on the stone pillar can be seen at the front along with the Jagannath temple which dates back to the medieval period. Within walking distance, you will find the temple of Taleju from 1549 AD, the large stone statue of Kal Bhairav, the God of destruction, the Big Bell and Big Drum, and Hindu Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati peeping from the window. Visit the residence of the living Goddess Kumari, a virgin girl selected from a Buddhist family to act as a deity. The building has profusely carved wooden balconies and window screens. Kasthamandap temple, just by its side is believed to be built from a single tree trunk. The name Katmandu is derived from this temple.

Interesting things to see in Kathmandu Durbar Square:

Kumari (The Living Goddess):

At the West end of the square, is a beautiful house decorated with a woodcarving of different Gods and Goddesses. This Palace is three storied and houses the famous living Goddess Kumari. Both Hindus and Buddhists equally venerate her. For Hindus, she is the reincarnation of the Hindu Goddess Kali. She is equally worshiped by Buddhists because she is chosen from a Buddhist family.

Kastha Mandap:

Kashamandap locally known as Maru Sattal is another popular temple in Kathmandu Durbar Square. It is believed that the name of Kathmandu City is derived from the name of this temple. Kastha means wood and Mandap means pavilion. The temple is believed to be built from a single Sal (sorea robusta) tree. At the center of this temple, one can see the statue of the Hindu God Gorakhnath and in the four corners of the temple, one can see Ganesh Statues.

Ganesh Temple:

Small yet most visited, the Maru Ganesh is the busiest in Durbar Square. People of Kathmandu valley believe that the four Ganesh in four corners of Kathmandu valley protects the people living in Kathmandu. The worship of Ganesh is considered to bring a Lucky Charm if you are starting something new. Every day people go to worship this temple and on Tuesdays, one can see a long queue of people waiting for hours as this is the day considered the day of worship for Lord Ganesh.

Other interesting things to see here are Mahadev Temple, Shiva Parvati Temple, Bhagwati Temple, Old palace, Saraswoti temple, Krishna Octangular Temple, Big drums, Kal Bhairav, Jagannath Temple, and Tal.

Swayambhunath/Monkey Temple:

Swayambhunath / Monkey Temple is a 2500-year-old stupa situated on a hillock about 77 m above ground level. The hillock gives a wonderful view of the Katmandu valley. The dome on top with painted eyes on four sides symbolizes the all-seeing eyes of Buddha. Swayambhunath is a religious shrine of Buddhists. Two Buddhist monasteries within the complex and a temple of Haratima where both Buddhists and Hindus worship form other attractions of the places. The temple of Manjushree and the Anandakuti Bihar is a short walk from the main site.

Bouddhanath Stupa:

Bouddhanath stupa is located 6 km to the east of Kathmandu and is believed to be built in the 5th century AD. The Stupa is one of the biggest Buddhist Stupas in the world and is ringed by Buddhist lamas and monasteries. Bouddhanath is a holy stupa for Tibetan Buddhists who come here in thousands in winter to pay their honor.

Pashupatinath Temple:

Pashupatinath is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva situated five kilometers east of Kathmandu at the bank of the Bagmati River. The temple has two golden roofs and four silver doors and is a holy place of pilgrimage that attracts tens of thousands of Hindu pilgrims every year in spring. At the banks of the Bagmati River, one can also observe the cremation ritual of Hindus.

Patan Durbar Square:

Patan Durbar Square is home to the former Patan Royal Family. The most photographed of Kathmandu’s 3 Durbar Squares, it features a remarkable display of Newari architecture. Its main attractions include the Krishna Temple, with its 21 golden pinnacles, Rudra Varna Mahavihar, a Buddhist Monastery that houses local treasures, and the central courtyard of Mul Chowk.

Departures & Availability

The set departure dates listed are specially quoted and specified for group joining option. Let us know if the set departure dates are not suitable for you- another dates which are suitable for you can certainly be added by us.

Check Available Dates

Start Date	Price	Availability

All trip prices are per person based on double occupancy, are subject to change without notice and do not include airfare. All prices and fares are quoted in U.S. dollars.

Price include

Hotel pick-up and drop off
Private car
English-speaking guide

Price Excludes

Entrance fees
Food
Tips

Gears And Equipment

What to bring for Kathmandu City Tour?

Comfortable shoes
Water
Passport or ID card
Face mask or protective covering

Entrance Fees and Tickets for Kathmandu City Tour Monuments

Entrance tickets to monuments must be bought on the spot. Your guide will assist you
Entrance prices differ for nationals of countries in the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation, and Chinese nationals. Please check updated prices at the counter before paying

Departure Date and Starting Time for Kathmandu City (Day) Tour

We have group departures twice a day for Kathmandu City Tour. The first departure in the Morning starts at 9:00 AM and the second departure is at 1:00 PM. Please let us know your preferable starting time after booking.

Pickup and drop for Kathmandu City (Day) Tour

We arrange pickup services from your hotel in Kathmandu. Please let us know your hotel name at least a day in advance before starting the tour.
If you are staying out of Kathmandu you must come to Friendship World Treks Office 20 minutes before starting time.
After the day tour, we will drop you at your hotel or Friendship World Treks office in Thamel.

Kathmandu City Sightseeing Tour Best Time

The best time to take the Kathmandu Walking Tour depends on your personal preferences and interests. However, here are some factors to consider when deciding the best time to take the tour:

Weather: The best time to take the tour is during the dry season, which runs from October to May. During this time, the weather is pleasant with clear skies, making it easier to enjoy the stunning views of the city and the Himalayas.
Festivals: Nepal is known for its vibrant and colorful festivals, and taking the Kathmandu City Tour during a festival can be a truly unforgettable experience. Some of the most popular festivals in Kathmandu include the Holi festival, the Bisket Jatra festival, and the Teej festival.
Crowds: The tourist season in Nepal runs from October to November and from March to May. During this time, the city can be crowded, and the popular tourist sites can get busy. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider taking the tour during the off-season.
Cost: The cost of the tour can vary depending on the time of year. During the peak tourist season, prices may be higher, so if you are on a budget, consider taking the tour during the off-season.

Kathmandu City Sightseeing Tour Accommodation

There are a variety of accommodation options available for visitors who are planning to take the Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour. Here are some of the options:

Hotels: There are numerous hotels located throughout Kathmandu, ranging from budget options to luxury hotels. Many hotels offer amenities such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and complimentary breakfast, and some may even offer tour packages that include the city sightseeing tour.
Guesthouses: Guesthouses are another popular option for travelers, offering affordable accommodation with basic amenities such as clean rooms, hot showers, and shared common areas. Many guesthouses are located in the city center and offer easy access to the city’s attractions.
Homestays: For a more authentic experience, visitors can choose to stay with a local family in a homestay. This option allows travelers to immerse themselves in Nepali culture and experience daily life in Kathmandu firsthand.
Resorts: If you are looking for a more luxurious experience, there are several resorts located on the outskirts of Kathmandu that offer stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains.

No matter what type of accommodation you choose, it’s important to book in advance, especially during the peak tourist season. It’s also a good idea to read reviews from other travelers and check the location of your accommodation to ensure that it’s close to the city’s attractions and the starting point of the Kathmandu City Day Tour.

Kathmandu City Sightseeing Tour Food and Meals

In Kathmandu City Tour package, meals are not included but you can have a lunch break on your own at a local restaurant or café where you can enjoy traditional Nepali cuisine. Here are some popular Nepali dishes to try during your tour:

Momos: These are steamed or fried dumplings filled with vegetables, meat, or cheese, and are often served with spicy dipping sauce.
Dal Bhat: This is a staple dish in Nepal and consists of rice and lentil soup served with a variety of vegetables and pickles.
Newari cuisine: Newari cuisine is unique to the Kathmandu Valley and features dishes such as bara (a fried lentil cake), choila (marinated meat), and chatamari (a type of rice crepe).
Thukpa: This is a hearty noodle soup made with vegetables, meat, or tofu, and is perfect for warming up on chilly days.
Chhoyla: This is a dish made from grilled meat that has been marinated in spices and lemon juice, and is typically served as an appetizer.
Sel Roti: This is a sweet, ring-shaped bread made from rice flour and is often eaten during festivals and special occasions.

There are also many restaurants and street vendors throughout Kathmandu where you can try these and other dishes. Make sure to ask your guide for recommendations and try as many different foods as possible to fully experience the local cuisine.

Kathmandu City Sightseeing Tour Difficulty Level

Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour can be physically demanding due to the extensive walking, stair climbing, and foot exploration of the historical sites. As a result, it’s critical to be in decent physical shape and at ease with prolonged walking. The tour also includes stops at temples and other sacred places where you will have to take off your shoes and proceed barefoot. It’s crucial to wear comfortable shoes with adequate traction because some of the walkways and stairways can be steep and uneven. We advise you to get in touch with us before booking our Kathmandu City Tour Package if you have any health or mobility concerns. As your disability may limit your ability to walk or climb stairs so it is important to discuss your concern to make sure Kathmandu Local Sightseeing Tour is appropriate for you.

Requirements of Travel Insurance for the Kathmandu City Sightseeing Tour

For Kathmandu Walking Tour getting travel insurance is entirely up to the individual. You can choose to get it or not. It is not mandatory to purchase an insurance policy for this tour. You won’t require that because there are no significant risk factors involved like trekking in mountains. While exploring the various location of Nepal you might encounter minor to severe accidents. Thinking about those cases, you could purchase an insurance policy to be on the safer side. However, there haven’t been any incidents similar to that up until now, and we hope there won’t be in the future.

Kathmandu City Sightseeing Tour Packing List, Gears, and Equipment

It is crucial to check the climate prediction on the day of your trip since it will influence the items you pick. The best strategy is to dress in layers because Kathmandu’s temperature might change during the day. Kathmandu City Tour is likely to be an amazing experience, so don’t forget to carry your spirit of adventure and curiosity. You might wish to carry the following necessities for the Tour:

Comfortable walking shoes with a good grip
A light backpack to carry your belongings
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect you from the sun
A reusable water bottle to refill at local restaurants and cafes
Snacks such as energy bars or nuts to keep you fueled throughout the day
A camera or smartphone to capture the stunning sights and scenery
A lightweight, waterproof jacket or poncho in case of rain
A small first-aid kit with basic supplies such as Band-Aids and pain relievers
Cash or credit card for purchasing souvenirs or additional food and drinks
A respectful outfit that covers your shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites.

Kathmandu City Sightseeing Tour Booking Procedure

With Friendship World Treks, one of Nepal’s leading trekking companies, you can get the lowest price now on Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour Package. With several qualified guides, we are completely government-approved and registered trekking and adventure specialists (the firm registration number is 71671/066/067). Additionally, we are affiliated with several national tourist organizations, including the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), TAAN, NMA, KEEP, and many others. The finest experience of a lifetime will undoubtedly be trekking with the most reputable and highly recommended local firm by many organizations. For this trip, we thus warmly welcome you all to the Friendship World Treks family. You simply need to pay a 10% deposit now and the rest when you arrive for the booking producers.

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