TripAdvisor

Kathmandu City Sightseeing Tour – 1 Day

  • Duration 1 Day
  • Destination Nepal
  • Trip Grade Easy
  • Starts at Kathmandu
  • Ends at Kathmandu
  • Meals None
  • Accommodation None
  • Activity Sightseeing and Touring
  • Group Type Any
  • Group Size 1 to 12
  • Best Season Whole Year
Highlights
  • 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.

A well-liked city tour in and around Kathmandu is the Kathmandu City Sightseeing Tour, commonly referred to as the Kathmandu Valley Tour or the Kathmandu Day Tour. You will experience the most fascinating voyage possible on this city tour, one that travels through historical landmarks of international fame. Explore the historical sites, temples, palaces, and streets of the city as part of a Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour to experience the ancient world. Additionally, you will get the chance to discover the vibrant culture and way of life of Kathmandu's natives.

The Kathmandu City Tour mostly consists of sightseeing in Patan and the surrounding valley, which are home to several significant tourist destinations. Some of them have even been designated as World Heritage Sites. UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, Kathmandu Durbar Square, and Patan Durbar Square are all included in this Kathmandu Local Sightseeing Tour. For individuals who wish to satisfy their curiosity about culture and history, Kathmandu is a significant destination. This Kathmandu City Day Tour is particularly intended for students who want to learn about the cultural variety and beliefs, pilgrimage tours for older people or senior citizens, couples, families, and groups of friends, as well as for those who wish to go on a secure and relaxing vacation.

You must take the Kathmandu City Tour if you ever travel to Kathmandu. You will be shown some of the incredibly historic and significant locations that are a part of our culture and history. You must take advantage of the Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour Package, which covers the majority of the locations, to get the most out of your vacation here. You can explore deeper into the region's history at locations like Hanuman Dhoka Square, and if you prefer a more serene environment, the area is home to a stunning variety of serene temples. The lovely valley around Kathmandu is home to numerous historic landmarks that are significant to our culture. Even though it has developed into a modern metropolis, the locals continue to practice their ancient customs and preserve their history and culture.

You can discover the calm areas of the city with the Nepal Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour. The Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, Boudhnath, and Kathmandu Durbar Square may all be seen on this one-day itinerary, which can start at 9 AM. This trip guarantees you lifelong experiences while bringing you to the peaceful side of the city. The Kathmandu City Tour Package is perfect for allowing you to enjoy some wonderful moments with your family and friends. An experienced and qualified guide is included in the Full Day Kathmandu City Tour Package, who will help you at every turn. In addition, the guide will be able to educate you on the various locations and help you comprehend their significance through enlightening conversation.

We at Green Valley Nepal Treks and Research Hub are pleased to present our well-planned Kathmandu City Sightseeing Tour Detailed Itinerary, which will give you the experience of a lifetime. Booking is now available for 2024 and 2025 at a reasonable price. Become a part of this spiritual journey with us, we at Green Valley Nepal Treks will assure you that you will enjoy every moment of the trip. For more questions regarding the Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour Package Cost, please don't hesitate to contact us.

Kathmandu City Tour is better to combine with your Everest Base Camp Trek either end of the trek or before starting the trek.

Benefits of Booking Kathmandu City Sightseeing Tour with us

  • Hotel Pickup And Drop off service
  • Green Valley Nepal Trek T-Shirt
  • Medical Kits - Which May Be Necessary In Certain Cases.
  • Discounts and Extra services for old customers
  • Arrangement of the best hotels at a reasonable price if requested

What You Can Expect from the Kathmandu City Sightseeing Tour?

  • The Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour will provide a distinctive fusion of cultural customs, way of life, history, historical structures, and religious sites.
  • You will view the Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Stupa, Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Patan Durbar Square on the Kathmandu Sightseeing tour.
  • The most well-known religious sites in the Kathmandu Valley will be explored with the assistance of a local tour guide who will be with you at all times.
  • Stunning historical and cultural landmarks that are part of the Kathmandu sightseeing tour are those that are recognized by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites.
  • You will get the chance to take pictures of Kathmandu's ancient buildings and monuments during this trip.
  • The diverse cultural traditions are on display in Kathmandu's streets. The artifacts and extensive history of the decade are excellent. Every location here has a ton of intriguing history.
  • One may catch a stunning sight of the old historical royal site, highly respected Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage sites, and the breathtaking perspective over the whole city of Kathmandu.

Is Kathmandu City Sightseeing Tour Suitable For You?

The Kathmandu City Day Tour is a great way to explore the city's rich history and culture. The tour takes you to some of the most important and iconic cultural heritage sites within the city, including ancient temples, shrines, and palaces.

Determining whether the Kathmandu City Tour Package is suitable for you depends on your personal interests and preferences. If you enjoy exploring historical and cultural sites, then this tour would be a great fit for you. Kathmandu has many ancient temples, palaces, and monuments that showcase its rich cultural heritage. Additionally, if you are interested in learning about the history and geography of the region, this tour will provide you with valuable insights.

However, if you are not interested in history or culture, then this tour may not be suitable for you. It is important to consider your interests before booking the Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour Package to ensure that you have an enjoyable experience. Additionally, if you have mobility issues, you should check the tour itinerary and make sure that you can comfortably participate in all the activities.

Preparation for the Kathmandu City Sightseeing Tour

If you are planning to go on the Nepal Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour, here are some tips to help you prepare for your trip:

  • Check the weather: Before booking the Kathmandu Local Sightseeing Tour, make sure to check the weather forecast of Kathmandu. It can get quite hot and humid during the summer months, so it's important to dress accordingly and bring sunscreen.
  • Wear Comfortable Clothing and Shoes: Since the tour involves visiting various cultural heritage sites, you will be doing a fair amount of walking. Wearing comfortable shoes and clothes will help you feel more at ease during the tour.
  • Bring Sunscreen and a Hat: Kathmandu can get quite sunny and hot, especially during the summer months. It's important to protect your skin and eyes from the sun by bringing sunscreen and a hat.
  • Stay Hydrated: Make sure to bring a water bottle with you and stay hydrated throughout the tour, especially if you are visiting during the summer months.
  • Carry Some Cash: Some of the heritage sites require an entrance fee, and some local vendors may only accept cash. It's always a good idea to carry some cash with you in these situations.
  • Respect Local Customs: Kathmandu is a culturally rich city with a deep-rooted history and customs. Be respectful of the local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples and other religious sites.
  • Follow The Instructions of Your Guide: The Kathmandu City Sightseeing Tour is led by experienced and knowledgeable guides. Follow their instructions and guidance to make the most out of your tour.
  • Bring A Camera: The tour takes you to some of the most beautiful and iconic cultural heritage sites in Kathmandu, so make sure to bring a camera to capture the memories.

Kathmandu City Sightseeing Tour Cost for 2024 and 2025

Green Valley Nepal Treks offers a Kathmandu City (Day Tour) Tour twice a day (starting at 9:00 am and 1:00 pm). Day tour Cost is the same for both starting times. But we are offering different prices depending on group size.

Please follow for the updated tour Cost for the Kathmandu City Tour (Kathmandu Day Tour):

Number of PaxCost Per PersonAction
1USD 85Book Now
2USD 80 per personBook Now
3USD 75 per personBook Now
4 to 5USD 70 per personBook Now
6 to 12USD 65 per personBook Now

Note: The above price we mention is for paying together. If you join an exciting group day tour, the tour cost will be as you choose, at the booking time.

Day to Day Itinerary
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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 at 1:00 PM. Please let us know your preferable starting time after booking. 

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.

    Our team guides, porters and accompanying staff are locals with a broad knowledge about each and every location that we travel through.

    Cost Includes
    • Hotel pick-up and drop off
    • Private car
    • English-speaking guide
    Cost Excludes
    • Entrance fees
    • Food
    • Tips
    Departure Dates
    Start:ThursdayApr 25, 2024
    End:ThursdayApr 25, 2024
    PriceUS$75
    StatusAvailable
    Start:FridayApr 26, 2024
    End:FridayApr 26, 2024
    PriceUS$75
    StatusAvailable
    Start:SaturdayApr 27, 2024
    End:SaturdayApr 27, 2024
    PriceUS$75
    StatusAvailable
    Start:SundayApr 28, 2024
    End:SundayApr 28, 2024
    PriceUS$75
    StatusAvailable
    Start:MondayApr 29, 2024
    End:MondayApr 29, 2024
    PriceUS$75
    StatusAvailable
    Start:TuesdayApr 30, 2024
    End:TuesdayApr 30, 2024
    PriceUS$75
    StatusAvailable
    Useful Info

    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 Green Valley Nepal Treks Office 20 minutes before starting time.
    • After the day tour, we will drop you at your hotel or Green Valley Nepal 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 Green Valley Nepal 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 Green Valley Nepal Treks family. You simply need to pay a 10% deposit now and the rest when you arrive for the booking producers.

    What our travelers saysClient Reviews
    • TripAdvisor

      Great Way to See Kathmandu in a Day!

      Great city tour of Kathmandu. The guide Kapil Pandey was very knowledgeable and helped us squeeze as much into our day as possible. Highly recommend!

      C
      Cody GApril 08, 2023Germany
    • TripAdvisor

      Kickin it in Katmandu

      Kapil was a great host and guide. Very informative and patient as we took lots of pictures. Would definitely recommend him to provide taking you to the right places and fill you in on the history of the sites.

      H
      Hondo17April 08, 2023India
    FAQs
    • The duration of the tour varies depending on the itinerary, but most tours last between 5 and 8 hours.

    • The cost of the tour depends on the itinerary and the tour company you choose. The cost typically includes transportation, guide services, and entrance fees to attractions.

    • It's best to wear comfortable and modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, as many of the attractions are religious sites. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended.

    • Yes, the tour is suitable for children. However, it's important to keep in mind that some of the attractions may not be suitable for very young children.

    • It's a good idea to bring some cash for purchasing souvenirs or snacks during the tour. However, many places in Kathmandu also accept credit cards.

    • Yes, the tour is generally safe. However, it's important to follow your guide's instructions and take necessary precautions to avoid theft or other safety hazards.

    • Yes, if you are not a citizen of Nepal, you will need a tourist visa to enter the country. You can obtain a visa on arrival at the airport or apply for one in advance through the Nepalese embassy or consulate in your home country.

    • Yes, Green Valley Nepal Treks offer customized itineraries to meet your specific interests and preferences. Make sure to discuss your options with us when booking your tour.

    • The best time to take the tour is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and dry. However, the tour can be taken year-round.

    • Yes, photography is generally allowed at most of the attractions on the tour. However, there may be some places where photography is prohibited, so make sure to follow your guide's instructions.

    • Most tour guides speak English, as well as Nepali and other local languages. If you require a guide who speaks a specific language, make sure to discuss your options with us when booking your tour.

    • Yes, Green Valley Nepal Treks allow you to book the tour online through our website or a third-party booking platform. Make sure to read reviews and compare prices before booking your tour.

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