Kathmandu Day Tours
Discover Kathmandu in one day
Explore Kathmandu’s UNESCO Sites on unforgettable day tours. Discover palace squares, ancient Stupas, Hindu temples with local guides. Book popular trips like Everest flights, Chandragiri Hill cable car rides. Find comprehensive city tours or customize your perfect Kathmandu day.
Popular Kathmandu Day Tours
Private Kathmandu Day Tour in 3-hrs
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Table of Contents
Kathmandu Things-to-do
Kathmandu UNESCO Heritage Sites Tour
Day tours and sightseeing of 7 of the UNESCO World’s Heritage Sites in Kathmandu
Private Kathmandu Sightseeing UNESCO World Heritage Tour
Full Day Guided Tour in Kathmandu
Kathmandu: 7-UNESCO Heritage Sites Day Tour
8 Days Annapurna Base Camp
Kathmandu Half Day Tours
Explore leisurely tours that can be pleasantly done within few hours of the day.
Kathmandu 3-UNESCO Sites Half Day Tour
Kathmandu Half Day Tour with Guide
Private Half Day Tour of Kathmandu Durbar Sq. & Boudhanath Stupa.
Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour in 3 hours
Kathmandu Full One Day Tours
Check out full one day tours to hidden alleys, cultural sites, soft hikes and unique trips in Kathmandu
Private Kathmandu Valley Full Day Tours
Full Day Kathmandu City Tour
Kathmandu Full Day 3-Durbar Squares Tour with Guide
Kathmandu 4 UNESCO Heritage Sites Full Day Tour
Your guide to Kathmandu Sightseeing
What do locals do in Kathmandu?
Temples and stupas
In Kathmandu, locals devotedly visit temples and stupas on specific days of the week to pay homage to their revered deities. Mondays witness a surge of devotees at Shiva shrines, while Tuesdays see an influx at Ganesh temples. During festivals and auspicious occasions, the city’s sacred sites teem with worshippers bearing offerings of flowers, incense, and prayers to seek blessings from their favored idols. This deep-rooted spiritual tradition weaves seamlessly into the fabric of daily life in the ancient city.
Hikes and bikes
Kathmandu might have a reputation for the hustle and bustle, but locals know how to escape the crowd — especially on the weekends. Shivapuri and Budanilkanta hiking, bike rides around Kakani, and the always- the Picnics in tucked away places and spots scattered around valley rim.
Chandargiri cable car
The Chandragiri cable car whisks you away from the hustle of Kathmandu to a tranquil hillside retreat. During the scenic 15-minute journey, you’ll be treated to sweeping panoramas of the valley below, with the city’s ancient monuments and the mighty Himalayas forming an awe-inspiring backdrop. As you ascend to 2,550 meters, the air becomes noticeably cooler and crisper, providing a refreshing escape from the urban heat. At the top, breathe in the fresh mountain air while admiring the unparalleled vistas that stretch out before you. The Chandragiri cable car offers a truly uplifting experience, both physically and spiritually.
What do locals do eat in Kathmandu?
Try Newari food
No matter where you go in Kathmandu the tantalizing aroma of Newari food is impossible to escape. The intricate spices, rich flavors, and unique cooking techniques make Newari food a true culinary delight. Exploring the diverse and mouthwatering offerings of Newari cuisine is an essential experience for any food lover in Kathmandu. We have chosen few of best curated Newari food tours in Kathmandu that delights your taste.
Don't miss Momo
Momo is extremely popular in Kathmandu, Nepal. They are available at almost every restaurant and street food stall, with various flavors and combinations. Some popular momo joints in Kathmandu include , Momo Magic, Everest and Momo, Narayan Daiko Masangalliko Famous Momo offering a variety of flavors and fillings.
Dal Bhat Power - the Thakali khana set
Dal-Bhat is a simple but hearty dish that’s a staple in Nepalese cuisine. So, when you hear “dal bhat,” know that it is more than just rice and lentils. Try one of the local Thakali Khana set to enjoy the flavors of authentic Nepali food that has its origin in the Himalayas
Farmers market
City dwellers don’t mind sharing this farmers market with visitors. More than just a market, it’s a community gathering spot to discover new flavors, swap stories, and celebrate Kathmandu’s rich agricultural traditions. Stalls overflow with an amazing variety of locally-grown organic produce – colorful heirloom tomatoes, leafy greens, fragrant herbs and more. But the bounty goes far beyond just fruits and veggies. You’ll find everything from European-style cheeses to fresh-caught fish to small-batch honeys and jams. Butchers apportion succulent cuts of meat while vendors offer up delectable chutneys and delicacies from bespoke cooks. It’s a vibrant scene of exchange as residents chat with the farmers who grow their food and the artisans who craft their provisions.
What are the best ways to go sightseeing in Kathmandu?
See the highlights with historian
Kathmandu enchants with ancient splendors like Boudhanath’s massive Buddhist Stupa and sacred Pashupatinath Temple on the Bagmati River. Immerse yourself fully by exploring symbolism and age-old rituals surrounding these UNESCO treasures. Witness timeless traditions unfold in the medieval alleys and squares. With an insider’s authentic perspective, you’ll gain a profound appreciation for the enduring Newari, Buddhist and Hindu culture in this mystical Himalayan valley.
Enjoy a night in Thamel
Thamel can challenge you at times with its liveliness and bustling streets. As with any bustling location, there some hidden gems if you don’t go you will miss it. One of the best ways to explore Thamel is to take a ride in rickshaw around Thamel Streets. Hop into pubs or bars in Thamel to unwind and socialize with locals and travelers. Some famous bars are Sam’s Bar, Tom & Jerry Pub, Phat Kath and House of Music.
Take a day trip from Kathmandu City
Kathmandu can be used as the base for exploring places around the valley. Nagarkot, Shivapuri National Park, Namo Buddha and Chandragiri Hills are places that can be easily reached within couple of hours. For those looking for something more low-key, head out to Dhulikhel, Panauti, Lakuri Bhanjyang or Godawari — all of which are about an hour away from the capital.
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What travelers are saying
It was a great tour, my guide Kiran had extensive knowledge of all monuments and temple I went. I had a great time visiting all those places, especially because I just had a little time to see Kathmandu. I recommend this our and guide!
Private UNESCO World Heritage Tour in Kathmandu Sightseeing by Paula G Family on May 2024
Our guide, Bhuwan was very welcoming and took his time to explain the ancient and modern history of the beautiful city of Kathmandu. He led us through the Buddhist and Hindu practices and beliefs with excellent English. We had such a nice experience that we requested him for another day tour. Had a great time!
Full Day Guided Tour in Kathmandu by Norman on October 2022
Frequently Asked Questions
The most popular historical sites among tourists in Kathmandu include: Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Temple and Kathmandu Durbar Square.
When it comes to deciding how many days to spend in Kathmandu, we recommend a minimum of three days to get the most out of your visit. This duration allows you to visit the must-see attractions, such as the Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Durbar Square, while also exploring the charming neighborhoods and experiencing the local culture. Additionally, many travelers use Kathmandu as a base before embarking on a trek or adventure in the Himalayas, so this duration provides ample time for preparation and organization. With three days in Kathmandu, you’ll have a solid foundation for your trip and be well-prepared for the adventures that await you.
Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is a treasure trove of cultural and historical attractions. Here are some of the top and popular places to visit in Kathmandu are Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Temple, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Garden of Dreams, Thamel, Freak Street, Asan Tole, Kasthamandap, Babar Mahal, Hanuman Dhoka, Kopan Monastery.
Thamel, situated in the heart of Kathmandu, is a vibrant and bustling neighborhood that functions as the tourist hub of the city. It is a bustling maze of narrow streets filled with shops offering colorful textiles, traditional handicrafts, and trekking gear.
Kathmandu is known for its rich culinary culture, which includes a variety of dishes such as momos, dal bhat, and sel roti. Momos are steamed dumplings filled with meat or vegetables, while dal bhat is a staple dish consisting of lentils, rice, and vegetables. Sel roti is a sweet, ring-shaped rice bread. These dishes are popular among locals and tourists alike, offering a taste of the city’s vibrant culinary scene
- Spring (March to May):
- Mild temperatures, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).
- Clear skies and gentle breezes.
- Festivals like Holi and Bisket Jatra take place during this time.
- Suitable for sightseeing and trekking.
- Summer (June to August):
- Hot temperatures, often above 30°C (86°F).
- High humidity and occasional rain showers.
- Monsoon season, which can make outdoor activities challenging.
- Best for cultural experiences and indoor activities.
- Autumn (September to November):
- Comfortable temperatures, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).
- Clear skies and gentle breezes.
- Festivals like Dashain and Tihar take place during this time.
- Suitable for sightseeing, trekking, and outdoor activities.
- Winter (December to February):
- Cool temperatures, often below 10°C (50°F).
- Clear skies and crisp air.
- Best for sightseeing, cultural experiences, and indoor activities.
Most of the activities in Kathmandu take place in some of the main focal tourist areas like Durbar Marg, Lazimpat, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, Bouddhanath and Thamel.
Yes, there are several free attractions in Kathmandu that are worth visiting are Kopan Monastery, Asan Markets, Thamel and bunch of Hindu Temples like Dakshinkali Mandir, Bagh Bhairav Temple.
When planning a trip to Kathmandu, there are several main expenses to consider are accommodation, food, transportation, Activities and Sightseeing and Souvenirs and Shopping. These expenses can vary depending on personal preferences, the duration of the trip, and the type of activities and accommodations chosen.
Others sightseeing options in Kathmandu
We have collected some of the best day tours in Kathmandu.
Things-to-do in Kathmandu
Top Attractions in Kathmandu
Places to go in Nepal
Kathmandu
Pokhara
Chitwan
Thamel
Sauraha
Patan
Bhaktapur
Budanilkantha
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