Kathmandu City Day Tour

Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)

Swayambhunath Stupa, commonly known as the Monkey Temple, is an ancient religious site perched atop a hill in Kathmandu. Visitors come here to find peace, light butter lamps at the main gate, and climb the mountain to worship at the Ajima Temple. Swayambhunath is one of the holiest Buddhist Chaityas (Stupas) in Nepal.
It is believed to have emerged when the valley was created from a primordial lake over 2000 years ago. According to legend, the lake was drained by Manjushree, who cut through the Chobhar Hill with his magic sword. The name Swayambhu means “self-existent one,” referring to the legend of a lotus flower that bloomed in the middle of the lake, which people began to worship.

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Kathmandu Durbar Square is in front of the old Royal Palace of the Kathmandu Valley Kingdom. Three ancient royal palace squares from the Malla Dynasty are here, later ruled by the Shah Dynasty from the 16th century. The square shows a unique architecture that displays the skills of craftsmen over many years. Unlike Patan and Bhaktapur Durbar Squares, Kathmandu Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Quadrangles, courtyards, and temples surround the square, and a statue of Hanuman at the palace gate, known as Hanuman Dhoka Durbar Square.

Boudhanath Stupa

Boudhanath Stupa stands 36 meters tall, making it one of the largest stupas in South Asia and an essential place for Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. Walking around the stupa in the early morning or evening is peaceful. People light butter lamps, put up colorful prayer flags, and enjoy the local cafes and shops for souvenirs.

The stupa is shaped like a mandala, designed to resemble the Gyangtse of Tibet, and was restored by the Lichchhabi rulers in the 7th century. Each side of the stupa has Buddha’s eyes, representing awareness. The stupa’s top has 13 levels, and its surrounding brick wall holds 147 niches and 108 images of meditation Buddhas, with prayer wheels placed nearby.

Pashupatinath Temple

Pashupatinath Temple is a famous and sacred Hindu place on the banks of the Bagmati River. It’s about 1 km from Tribhuvan International Airport and 5 km from Thamel. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is Nepal’s leading Hindu site. Many Hindus come here to pray and take part in rituals. The complex has temples, ashrams, and areas for cremation ceremonies. Visiting here can be very calming. Over 1000 people visit the temple every month.

The best time to visit Kathmandu is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant. It further offers you clear skies and comfortable temperatures.

Spring welcomes blooming flowers and lush greenery. It enhances the scenic beauty of the Kathmandu Valley. Conversely, autumn offers crisp air and stunning views of the surrounding mountains, especially from places like Swayambhunath and Boudhanath Stupa. These seasons coincide with essential festivals in Nepal, such as Dashain and Tihar.

However, avoiding the monsoon season (June to August) is advisable due to heavy rainfall. It can disrupt travel plans and make outdoor activities challenging. But if you can manage the cold, you can travel during the winter season from December to February. Make sure you plan your trip based on your location preferences.

During a day tour of Kathmandu, you can explore the city’s rich cultural heritage. You will see Hindu people and also learn about Buddhism. You can dive into vibrant festivals, colorful markets, and traditional music to learn more about the culture. When you visit temples or monasteries, you will see people lighting butter lamps, a critical cultural practice.

The festivals celebrated in Kathmandu are a big highlight. Events like Dashain, Tihar, Holi, and Indra Jatra are enthusiastically celebrated. You can watch traditional dances, parades, and religious ceremonies during these times. Don’t miss trying local dishes like momo and dal bhat, which are popular in the region. You can explore Ktm and take an exploration day, even if you are trekking to Nepal. Never miss the cultural beauty of KTM.

Local cuisine in Kathmandu offers a delightful array of flavors and dishes. It reflects the region’s rich cultural diversity. One of the most popular dishes is momo, dumplings filled with meat or vegetables, and spicy dipping sauce. Dal bhat is another staple, consisting of lentil soup (dal) and rice (bhat), often accompanied by vegetables, pickles, and sometimes meat or fish.

Newari cuisine in the Kathmandu Valley features specialties like bara (a lentil pancake), yomari (a sweet dumpling filled with molasses or sesame seeds), and choila (spiced grilled meat). Street food enthusiasts can enjoy snacks like sel roti (a crispy, ring-shaped rice bread) and samosas (deep-fried pastry filled with savory ingredients). Tea houses and cafes are also popular spots to savor traditional beverages such as masala chai (spiced tea) or enjoy a relaxing break with a cup of locally brewed coffee. Try as many dishes as you can. Every dish you try will certainly impress you with its taste.

Kathmandu has different transportation options to fit your preferences and budget. They offer both convenience and local flavor. You can choose various ways to get around the city and nearby areas.

Taxis and Tempos: Taxis are easy to find in Kathmandu. You can hail them on the street or book through hotels. They are a comfortable and fast way to travel within the city. Tempos, or rickshaws, are another choice for short distances, offering a slower but more relaxed ride.

Public Buses: Kathmandu has public buses covering major city and nearby town routes. They are affordable and let you experience local daily life, although they can get crowded during busy times.

Private Vehicles: Renting a car or hiring a private vehicle with a driver is convenient for exploring Kathmandu and nearby areas. It gives you flexibility and comfort; many hotels and travel agencies provide this service.

Motorbikes and Bicycles: You can rent motorbikes and bicycles in Kathmandu for a more adventurous way to explore the city at your own pace. Pathau and Indriver are two primary biking services you can book online. They’re affordable and ensure you reach your destination on time.

Tourist Buses and Shuttles: Tourist buses and shuttles are available for organized tours and day trips to famous tourist spots like Bhaktapur and Patan. They offer guided tours and comfortable transportation.