Overview
Kathmandu’s sightseeing tour is one of the most popular city tours in Nepal. It’s a relatively short tour compared to others in Nepal, comprising a full day of exploration around Kathmandu city.
While the Kathmandu Valley boasts numerous attractions, this tour covers four significant locations in a single day. If you aim to explore the entire valley, consider extending your stay.
Kathmandu offers a diverse range of activities, but the sightseeing tour is tailored for those with limited time who seek to immerse themselves in Nepal’s rich history and culture.
This condensed tour provides access to UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu, Lalitpur, and Bhaktapur, all situated within the Kathmandu Valley.
Highlights of the Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour:
- Witness the captivating natural beauty and picturesque villages.
- Explore Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple, the oldest stupa in Nepal.
- Experience the reverence of devout Hindu monks at Pashupatinath, considered the world's most sacred Hindu temple.
- Visit the ancient Newari town of Bhaktapur, one of the oldest settlements in Nepal.
- Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Bhaktapur, renowned for its skilled artisans in carving, pottery, and weaving.
- Enjoy a peaceful respite from the bustling city life of Kathmandu.
- Discover local produce, clothing, and handicrafts at a market.
Itinerary
Upon arrival, Elite Treks representative take you to the hotel. If the time remains, we will take a short visit around Thamel. In the evening, there will be a welcome dinner provided by Elite Treks with the cultural show.
Today, after breakfast, we start our sightseeing tour in Kathmandu, focusing on UNESCO World Heritage Sites within the city.
First, we will drive to Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple. This Buddhist stupa is 7 kilometers away from the center of Kathmandu and is the oldest stupa in Nepal. It is a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists.
Next, we will visit Pashupatinath, the holiest Hindu pilgrimage site in Nepal. This temple complex is located on the banks of the Bagmati River and is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
On the way to Nagarkot, we will stop at Bhaktapur Durbar Square. This Durbar Square is rich in ancient Nepali art and culture and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Nagarkot, situated at 7,200 feet above sea level, offers stunning views of the Himalayas. This is a popular destination for sunrise and sunset views of the mountains. We will stay overnight in Nagarkot.
Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Nepal's rich history and culture with this exploration of Kathmandu Valley. After a delightful breakfast, we set out towards the valley, where our first stop is the magnificent Patan Durbar Square. Immerse yourself in the intricate art and architectural marvels that speak volumes about the region's artistic heritage.
Next, we ascend to Swayambhu Stupa, the oldest stupa in Nepal. Revered as the Monkey Temple, this pilgrimage site offers not only religious significance but also panoramic vistas of the entire Kathmandu Valley, leaving you breathless with its beauty.
Descending from Swayambhu, we delve into the historical heart of Kathmandu at the Kathmandu Durbar Square. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts a collection of exquisite art and architecture, remnants of the glorious Malla Dynasty that ruled from the 12th to the 18th centuries. As the day draws to a close, we stroll through the vibrant local market, brimming with local life and colorful offerings, before returning to our hotel, filled with unforgettable memories.
Departure
Additional Information
Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas, the Kathmandu Valley unfolds like a captivating storybook, waiting to be explored. This bowl-shaped valley, cradled approximately 1,400 meters above sea level, is embraced by the towering Shivapuri, Chandragiri, Phulchowki, and Nagarjuna mountain ranges that stand as silent guardians. The lifeblood of the valley is the meandering Bagmati River, flowing gracefully through its heart.
Divided into three distinct districts – Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Lalitpur – the valley boasts a rich tapestry of cultures and traditions. Each district possesses its unique charm and character, yet they come together seamlessly, creating a vibrant symphony of heritage and harmony. Encompassing an area of 570 square kilometers, the valley proudly holds the prestigious title of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a testament to its exceptional cultural and historical significance.
Delving deeper, we discover a captivating cultural realm in Kathmandu. Here, diverse music, religions, art, and architecture interweave to form a unique identity. Temples and monasteries, adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant colors, stand as architectural marvels, forming the very essence of Kathmandu’s landscape. Hinduism and Buddhism, the two dominant religions, coexist peacefully, shaping the valley’s spiritual fabric and enriching its cultural tapestry.
Kathmandu’s architectural legacy is particularly noteworthy, evident in its iconic landmarks. From the grandeur of the Durbar Squares – the royal palaces showcasing the artistry of the Malla dynasty – to the captivating Swayambhunath stupa, perched atop a hill and offering breathtaking panoramic views, each structure tells a story of the valley’s vibrant past.
Embark on a captivating journey through this remarkable valley, and discover a world brimming with cultural treasures, architectural wonders, and breathtaking natural beauty. The Kathmandu Valley awaits, ready to unveil its enchanting secrets and leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.
Service Included
- Airport pick up and drop,
- 2 nights Kathmandu hotel with B&B basis,
- 1 night Nagarkot hotel with B&B basis,
- Sightseeing entry fees,
- English speaking tour guide,
- Sightseeing with private vehicle,
- Bottle water during tour,
Service Excluded
- Lunch and dinner during the tour,
- Tips for guide and driver,
- Personal expenses,
History, Culture, and Spirituality
The Kathmandu city tour offers a diverse range of experiences, encompassing historical landmarks, religious sites, and cultural immersion. Here are some of the captivating highlights:
Kathmandu Durbar Square (Basantapur Durbar Square)
One of the three Durbar Squares within the Kathmandu Valley, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a significant historical and religious site for Nepalese people. It reflects the architectural styles of the Malla and Shah dynasties, showcasing ancient temples, monuments, statues, and courtyards. The Hanuman Dhoka Palace Complex, built during both dynasties, stands as a major attraction.
Surrounding the Durbar Square are important temples like Jagannath, Mahadeshwara, Kotilingeshwara Mahadev, and Taleju, which holds immense religious significance. Additionally, the square features temples built during the Shah dynasty, including Mahadev, Shiva Parvati, Maru Ganesh, Bhagwati, Saraswati, and Kal Bhairav.
Kathmandu Durbar Square is also home to the Kumari, the Living Goddess of Nepal, worshipped as a living form of the Mother Goddess. During the Indra Jatra festival, the Kumari, along with other human incarnations of deities, is paraded through the square, offering blessings to thousands of locals and tourists.
Boudhanath Stupa (Largest Buddhist Stupa in Nepal)
Built around 590-604 BCE, Boudhanath Stupa holds religious and historical significance for both tourists and Buddhist pilgrims. It serves as a center for Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal.
The stupa’s design resembles a Mandala, a sacred symbol in Buddhism, and is built in sections representing various aspects of the religion. Circumambulating the stupa, encountering hundreds of prayer wheels, colorful prayer flags, and the peaceful chanting of monks create a deeply spiritual atmosphere.
Rooftop hotels, cafes, shops selling local artifacts, and monasteries surround the main stupa, offering stunning views and unique experiences. Don’t miss the opportunity to try the famous Buddhist butter milk tea and “Khapse” snacks while you’re there.
Swayambhunath Temple (The Monkey Temple)
Situated atop a hillock, Swayambhunath Temple, also known as the Monkey Temple, is a center of peace and devotion. Believed to be the oldest stupa in Nepal, dating back over 2,000 years, it is surrounded by a forest inhabited by monkeys, hence the temple’s nickname. Travelers and pilgrims climb the steep stairs to reach the summit and experience the majestic stupa.
Ancient statues, temples, paintings, and prayer wheels scattered around the area create a sense of stepping back in time. Manuscripts from the ancient period offer glimpses into the past, while the serene atmosphere provides a haven for relaxation and meditation. The hillock location offers a panoramic view of the Kathmandu Valley, making it one of the best vantage points in the city.
Pashupatinath Temple (The Most Holy Hindu Temple)
Located near the banks of the Bagmati River, Pashupatinath Temple is the holiest place for Hindus and is dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the supreme deities. Built around the 5th century, it is listed as one of the four Dhams (pilgrimage sites) of Lord Shiva in all of Asia.
The main temple, designed in the pagoda style, features a gold-plated top section and silver-plated doors adorned with intricate carvings depicting deities. Numerous stone and wooden carved temples surround the main structure, while ashrams offer shelter to elders, the homeless, and others.
Pashupatinath serves as a central location for various Hindu rituals. Individuals visit to perform rites and pray to Lord Shiva for good health and family well-being. Witnessing birth and death rituals here offers a profound understanding of the Hindu perspective on the life cycle. During the months of Shivaratri, Shrawan, and Teej, the entire Pashupati area becomes a vibrant hub for thousands of devotees who gather to celebrate and participate in these sacred festivals.
Patan Durbar Square
Located in the heart of Lalitpur city, Patan Durbar Square is one of the three UNESCO World Heritage sites categorized as Durbar Squares. This area showcases the exquisite architectural skills of the Newari people, evident in the square’s design and the surrounding structures.
The city of Patan, one of the oldest Buddhist cities in Nepal, has been home to diverse ethnic groups for centuries. The Durbar Square features historical temples like Krishna Temple and Bhimsen Temple, alongside numerous Newari-style houses, idols, and monuments.
Patan Durbar Square also houses a museum showcasing artifacts, statues, paintings, coins, wood carvings, and manuscripts from the Malla period and even earlier eras.
In conclusion, the Kathmandu City Tour offers a captivating glimpse into the heart of Nepal. It’s a perfect blend of historical exploration, religious immersion, and cultural discovery, catering to travelers seeking a diverse and enriching experience.
Nepal Everest Base Camp recognizes the importance of time and cost-effectiveness for travelers. We strive to design the Kathmandu City Tour Package in a way that maximizes your enjoyment while staying within your budget and timeframe.
Beyond the highlights mentioned above, we also offer:
- Private Kathmandu Day Tours: These tours are tailor-made to your specific interests and preferences, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace.
- Kathmandu Day Tour to Bhaktapur and Changu Narayan Temple: This specific tour delves deeper into the rich cultural heritage of the Kathmandu Valley, showcasing the ancient city of Bhaktapur and the magnificent Changu Narayan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Whether you’re a history buff, a spiritual seeker, or simply an explorer with a curious mind, the Kathmandu City Tour promises an unforgettable journey.
We at Nepal Everest Base Camp invite you to embark on this captivating adventure and discover the magic of Kathmandu!
