Highlights

Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple): Panoramic city views and ancient Buddhist stupa.
Pashupatinath Temple: Sacred Hindu temple, cremation ghats along the Bagmati River.
Boudhanath Stupa: Majestic Buddhist stupa, a pilgrimage site with a vibrant atmosphere.
Durbar Square: Historic palace and temples, UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Patan Durbar Square: Stunning palace complex, temples, and intricate woodwork.
Hiranya Varna Mahavihar: Ancient golden temple with historical significance.
Mahabouddha Temple: Known for its unique terracotta tiles and Buddhist heritage.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square: Ancient square filled with medieval architecture, temples, and statues.
Golden Gate: Ornate and intricately designed entrance to the palace.
Changunarayan Temple: Oldest Hindu temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Pottery Square: Traditional pottery making and handicraft workshops.

Kathmandu: The Cultural Heart of Nepal

Your Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour begins in the bustling capital of Nepal, Kathmandu, a city that perfectly blends ancient temples, vibrant markets, and spiritual sites. Kathmandu is often referred to as the "Gateway to Nepal" due to its historical and cultural significance.

Start your journey by visiting Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the grandeur of Nepalese architecture. The square is home to the Hanuman Dhoka Palace, which was once the royal palace for the Malla kings, as well as temples and courtyards with intricate carvings. While in the square, don't miss the Kasthamandap (the structure from which Kathmandu gets its name) and the Jagannath Temple. The square offers a glimpse into the medieval era, reflecting the artistic and architectural marvels of Nepal's past.

Next, head to Swayambhunath Stupa (also known as the Monkey Temple), an ancient religious complex atop a hill offering stunning panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley. The stupa is one of the oldest and most significant Buddhist sites in Nepal. Here, you’ll see an impressive collection of Buddha statues, prayer wheels, and colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind. You’ll also encounter the playful monkeys for which the site is named.

Continue your cultural immersion with a visit to Pashupatinath Temple, the holiest Hindu temple in Nepal, located along the sacred Bagmati River. It is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Hindus worldwide. While non-Hindus are not allowed to enter the inner sanctum, the temple’s vast complex, including the surrounding cremation ghats, provides fascinating insight into Hindu customs and rituals.

Lastly, visit Boudhanath Stupa, the largest stupa in Nepal, and one of the holiest sites for Tibetan Buddhists. The stupa's vast mandala-like structure and the continuous prayer flags create a truly unique and spiritual atmosphere. You can also visit the many monasteries surrounding the stupa, where monks chant and meditate.

Patan: The City of Art and Architecture

From Kathmandu, take a short drive to Patan, also known as Lalitpur, which is located just across the Bagmati River. Patan is famous for its incredible art and architecture, which showcases the talents of ancient Newar artisans. This ancient city is known for its elaborate temples, courtyards, and stunning sculptures.

Start your visit at Patan Durbar Square, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you’ll be amazed by its unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist architecture. The square is home to several important landmarks, including the Mahabouddha Temple, the Golden Temple (a small but beautiful Buddhist temple with intricate gold carvings), and the Patan Museum. The museum, housed in an ancient palace, showcases a rich collection of religious art and artifacts from Nepal’s rich cultural history.

In Patan, you’ll also find intricate wooden carvings, stone sculptures, and metalwork. Don’t forget to take a stroll through the narrow alleys and visit the local shops where artisans still practice traditional crafts, including metalworking, pottery, and wood carving.

Bhaktapur: A Living Museum of Ancient Nepal

Next, head to Bhaktapur, a well-preserved medieval city that is often described as an open-air museum. Bhaktapur is renowned for its ancient temples, pagodas, and charming streets that seem to transport you back in time. The city retains much of its original architecture and offers a glimpse into traditional Newar life.

Start your visit in Bhaktapur Durbar Square, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you'll find iconic structures such as the 55-Window Palace, Vatsala Temple, and the Nyatapola Temple, which is the tallest pagoda-style temple in Nepal. The architecture here reflects the grandeur of the Malla period, with intricate woodwork, stone carvings, and detailed sculptures.

One of Bhaktapur’s highlights is its pottery square, where you can see local artisans molding clay into beautiful pots, urns, and traditional Newar items. Bhaktapur is also famous for its local dishes, such as juju dhau (king curd), a must-try while wandering through the city.

While exploring the city, make sure to visit the Bhairabnath Temple, the Changu Narayan Temple (located just outside the city), and take a stroll along the narrow, cobbled streets that surround the Durbar Square, filled with local shops selling crafts, souvenirs, and handmade items.

Why Choose Summit Nepal Adventure for Your Kathmandu, Patan, Bhaktapur Tour?

Summit Nepal Adventure offers expertly crafted tours that provide an in-depth look into the cultural and historical gems of Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur. Our knowledgeable guides are passionate about sharing the rich history of each city, from the ancient temples and palaces of Kathmandu to the artistic wonders of Patan and the medieval charm of Bhaktapur. We tailor our tours to suit your interests and ensure that you have a comfortable and enriching experience.

We handle all aspects of the tour, from transportation and accommodation to guided visits of each landmark, so you can focus on exploring and learning about Nepal’s cultural heritage. Whether you’re visiting Nepal for the first time or have been here before, our tours offer something new to discover in these iconic cities.

Itinerary Summary:

Kathmandu: Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa.
Patan: Explore the art and architecture of Patan Durbar Square and visit the Patan Museum, Mahabouddha Temple, and the Golden Temple.
Bhaktapur: Wander through the medieval streets of Bhaktapur Durbar Square, visit the 55-Window Palace, Nyatapola Temple, and discover the traditional art of pottery making.

This Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour provides a rich cultural experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the history, architecture, and local life of three of Nepal's most fascinating cities. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or someone looking to experience the authentic culture of Nepal, this tour offers a memorable and educational journey.

Important Note

Frequently Asked Questions

The Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour is a cultural exploration of Nepal's ancient and historically significant cities. This tour takes you through Kathmandu, the capital city, and its vibrant surroundings, including the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Patan and Bhaktapur. Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur offer a rich blend of architectural beauty, ancient temples, and vibrant local culture, making it a must-do for those interested in Nepal's heritage. This tour is perfect for those who want to experience the spiritual, cultural, and historical side of Nepal in a relatively relaxed and informative way.

Accommodation during the Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour will be in 3-star to 5-star hotels, depending on your preferences. These hotels are located in the Thamel area or other central areas of Kathmandu, offering easy access to the city's top attractions. The hotels provide comfortable rooms with modern amenities and often include services such as free Wi-Fi, room service, and restaurant options.

Regarding food, you can expect a mix of Nepali and international cuisines. Traditional Nepali dishes such as dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momos (dumplings), and tarkari (vegetable curry) are commonly available, alongside Western options like pasta, pizza, and salads. Most of the restaurants are accustomed to catering to international tourists, and you can also find vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

The Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour covers some of the most famous and culturally significant sites in Kathmandu Valley:

Kathmandu:

Kathmandu Durbar Square: A historic palace complex and UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a glimpse into Nepal's royal history and cultural heritage.

Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple): A stupa atop a hill offering panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley and an important Buddhist pilgrimage site.

Pashupatinath Temple: One of the holiest Hindu temples in Nepal, located on the banks of the Bagmati River, where you can witness the sacred cremation rituals.

Boudhanath Stupa: A massive Buddhist stupa and one of the largest in the world, known for its spiritual significance and vibrant atmosphere.

Patan:

Patan Durbar Square: A beautiful historical square filled with ancient temples, shrines, and the royal palace.

Mahabouddha Temple: A unique temple known for its terracotta design, often referred to as the "Temple of 1,000 Buddhas."

Golden Temple (Hiranya Varna Mahavihar): A stunning Buddhist monastery with intricate golden architecture and artwork.

Bhaktapur:

Bhaktapur Durbar Square: A charming medieval square with impressive temples, palaces, and courtyards, including Vatsala Temple and Nyatapola Temple.

Bodhisattva Statue: A significant statue found in Bhaktapur, representing Buddhist teachings.

Bishnu Temple: A beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

Traditional Pottery: Bhaktapur is known for its traditional pottery, and visitors can explore the local pottery square.

Yes, the Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour is suitable for all types of travelers, including solo travelers, families, and groups. The tour is designed to be relatively low in intensity, with a focus on cultural exploration and sightseeing. The pace can be adjusted to suit your preferences, and the activities are accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or spirituality, this tour offers a range of experiences for everyone.

No special trekking permits are required for the Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour. However, you will need to pay entry fees for certain temples, museums, and heritage sites like Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, and Patan Durbar Square. Summit Nepal Adventure will assist with all the necessary arrangements, including ticket purchases, so you can enjoy a smooth and hassle-free experience.

For the Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour, it’s recommended to pack comfortable walking shoes, as you’ll be exploring ancient streets and temples. Wear light clothing for daytime sightseeing, but be sure to bring a light jacket or sweater, especially in the evenings, as the temperatures can drop. If you plan to visit any temples or religious sites, it’s respectful to dress modestly (covering your shoulders and knees). A hat or sunglasses for sun protection is also a good idea. Summit Nepal Adventure will provide a more detailed packing list upon booking your tour.

The best times for the Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour are during the autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) seasons. These months offer clear skies and pleasant weather, making it ideal for exploring the cultural and historical sites. The winter months (December to February) can also be a good time to visit if you prefer fewer crowds, although temperatures may be cooler, particularly in the evenings. The monsoon season (June to August) is best avoided due to heavy rainfall, which may disrupt outdoor activities.

Summit Nepal Adventure’s Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour typically includes:

Hotel pick-up and drop off

English-speaking guide for the duration of the tour.

Meals as per the itinerary.

Entry fees for temples, heritage sites, and museums.

Private transport between Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur.

Summit Nepal Adventure is a trusted and experienced tour operator that offers professional and personalized services. Their expert guides are well-versed in Nepal’s culture, history, and traditions, ensuring that you receive an insightful and enriching experience throughout your journey. Summit Nepal Adventure takes pride in providing safe, comfortable, and memorable tours tailored to your interests.