6-7 Hours
1-50
All Season
Kathmandu Day Tour – A Journey Through Nepal’s Living History
Kathmandu is where time folds into layers of art, spirituality, chaos, and charm. With over 2,000 years of history, this ancient capital is a living museum of temples, palaces, and shrines—each whispering stories of kings, gods, and everyday life.
Our Kathmandu Day Tour is the ultimate way to explore the city’s soul in a single day. Whether you’re just arriving in Nepal or ending your Himalayan journey, this curated tour blends UNESCO World Heritage Sites, local culture, and hidden gems—all guided by a local expert and a comfortable private vehicle.
Major Attractions
1. Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)
Start your day atop a forested hill at the iconic Swayambhunath, a 2,500-year-old stupa that watches over the valley. With its watchful eyes painted on the golden spire and a mix of Buddhist and Hindu symbolism, this sacred site offers spiritual insight and panoramic views.
2. Kathmandu Durbar Square (Hanuman Dhoka Palace)
Walk back in time through the courtyards and palaces of Durbar Square, the former royal residence of the Malla and Shah kings. Admire Newari woodwork, watch street vendors sell marigolds and incense, and visit the Kumari Ghar, home to the Living Goddess of Nepal.
3. Boudhanath Stupa
One of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world, Boudhanath is a peaceful sanctuary ringed by spinning prayer wheels, fluttering prayer flags, and Tibetan monasteries. Circumambulate the stupa with monks and pilgrims as the scent of juniper incense fills the air.
4. Pashupatinath Temple
A sacred Hindu site on the banks of the Bagmati River, Pashupatinath is more than a temple—it’s a glimpse into life, death, and devotion. Witness open-air cremation rituals, sadhus meditating in vibrant robes, and centuries-old shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva.
5. Patan Durbar Square (Lalitpur)
Just across the river from Kathmandu, the city of Patan (Lalitpur) is a cultural jewel famous for its Newari architecture and artistry. The palace square here is quieter, cleaner, and packed with museums, metalwork shops, and intricate temples.
6. Garden of Dreams (Optional Add-On)
If you’d like a calm ending to your day, the Garden of Dreams offers a neoclassical oasis of ponds, pergolas, and pavilions. It’s a great place to rest, reflect, or take photos in serenity.
Start: 9:00 AM – Hotel Pick-Up
We begin your Kathmandu day tour at 9 AM with a hotel pick-up. An expert guide from AIA will accompany you throughout the journey.
1. Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)
Our first stop is the iconic Swayambhunath Stupa, perched on a hill with panoramic city views. It’s a spiritual blend of Hindu and Buddhist beliefs, featuring Buddha statues and even a temple dedicated to Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of learning.
2. Kathmandu Durbar Square
Next, we head to the historic Kathmandu Durbar Square, once home to the Malla kings. The square is filled with ancient temples, palaces, and courtyards that reflect the city’s rich medieval culture.
3. Bouddhanath Stupa
We then visit Bouddhanath, one of South Asia’s largest stupas and a major hub of Tibetan Buddhism. The peaceful atmosphere and spinning prayer wheels make this a standout spiritual spot. We’ll also stop here for lunch at one of the nearby rooftop restaurants.
4. Pashupatinath Temple
Our final destination is the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 5th century and later restored by Malla kings, it’s one of the holiest Shiva shrines in the world.
Return to Hotel
We wrap up the tour in the late afternoon and drop you back at your hotel before nightfall.
Who Is This Tour Perfect For?
Couples and families looking to explore Pokhara’s highlights
Solo travelers who want a guided, comfortable experience
Travel photographers and bloggers looking for hidden angles
Cultural explorers curious about Nepal’s traditions
The full-day tour usually takes 6–8 hours depending on traffic and how long you spend at each site. We can also do a half-day version if you’re short on time.
Absolutely. Let us know your interests: art, spirituality, food, architecture, and we’ll tailor the route to match.
Yes! We offer extended tours that include Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Changu Narayan Temple, or even a cable car ride to Chandragiri Hills with Himalayan views.
