An Insight of the Kathmandu Valley

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An Insight of the Kathmandu Valley

An Insight of the Kathmandu Valley

from USD 825 Per Person Book Package

Overview

This one-week study tour of Kathmandu explores the three historic sister cities—Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur—each renowned for their distinctive royal courtyards and ancient temples. These architectural treasures reflect centuries of cultural blending among diverse ethnic communities. Beyond the valley’s urban centers, charming villages and scenic countryside await, offering stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks as well as an authentic glimpse into traditional Nepalese village life and culture.

A visit to Nagarkote hill, known as the finest vantage point for mountain views, along with guided village walks, enriches the experience, adding both excitement and a deeper connection to the region.

Trip Highlights

Pashupatinath Temple
Sankhu Village
Dakshinkali Temple
Changunarayan Temple
Nagarkote Hill & Mountain Views
Bhaktapur Durbar Square
Budhanilkantha Temple
Kopan Monastery
Bungmati & Khokana Villages
Patan Durbar Square
Boudhanath Stupa
Swayambhunath Stupa
Kathmandu Durbar Square

Itinerary

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, where our representative will warmly greet you with a traditional Khada (Tibetan silk scarf) or flower garland outside the arrival terminal. You will then be transferred to your hotel for overnight stay.

Begin your day with a half-day tour of old Kathmandu city, including its historic Durbar Square and temples, such as the residence of the Living Goddess, Kumari. Next, visit the magnificent Swayambhunath Stupa, a Buddhist monument perched atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, explore Pashupatinath Temple, a sacred Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva on the banks of the Bagmati River, followed by a visit to the colossal Boudhanath Stupa, a symbol of Buddhist spirituality and one of Nepal’s largest stupas. Return to your hotel for overnight stay.

In the morning, visit Bungmati and Khokana, two traditional Newari villages renowned for their woodcarving and traditional oil pressing. In the afternoon, tour Patan Durbar Square, also known as Lalitpur or the “City of Beauty,” famous for its rich Buddhist heritage, exquisite crafts, and over 50 historic temples scattered among 136 courtyards. Overnight at your hotel in Kathmandu.

Start your day with a visit to Budhanilkantha Temple, a revered Hindu pilgrimage site featuring a magnificent reclining statue of Lord Vishnu resting on the cosmic serpent Ananta. In the afternoon, explore Kopan Monastery, a renowned center for Mahayana Buddhism offering meditation courses, lectures, and spiritual retreats. Return to your hotel for overnight.

Begin with a visit to Changunarayan Temple, one of Nepal’s oldest temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu, showcasing over seventeen centuries of Nepalese art and architecture. In the afternoon, explore Sankhu Village, a historic Newar town located 23 km from Kathmandu, known for its ancient wood-carved temples, traditional houses, and old stone water taps, situated along the ancient trade route to Tibet. Overnight at your hotel in Kathmandu.

In the morning, visit Dakshinkali Temple, a famous shrine dedicated to Goddess Kali, the fierce form of Lord Shiva’s consort. Spend the afternoon at your leisure to relax, explore on your own, or enjoy optional activities. Overnight at your Kathmandu hotel.

After breakfast, journey to Bhaktapur, the “City of Devotees,” a living museum of medieval Nepalese art and architecture. Wander through the brick-paved Palace Square with its famous 55-window palace, the Golden Gate, and the impressive Nyatapole Temple, the tallest pagoda-style temple in Nepal. In the afternoon, transfer to Nagarkot (about 1.5 hours from Kathmandu), a hilltop destination at 2175 meters altitude, renowned for spectacular panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Manaslu (weather permitting). Optional village walks around Nagarkot add cultural flavor to your visit. Enjoy the sunset from your hotel if weather allows. Overnight at your hotel in Nagarkot.

Early morning offers a chance to witness a stunning sunrise over the mountains from your hotel in Nagarkote (weather permitting). After breakfast, drive back to Kathmandu and transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward international flight.