
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be greeted by a representative from Himalayan Escape Adventure, who will transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu. After check-in and some time to rest, you can enjoy a relaxed evening exploring the vibrant streets of Thamel or visiting a nearby café. In the evening, you will have a briefing about your Kathmandu Three City Sightseeing Tour, where we will outline the itinerary and highlight the incredible cultural and historical landmarks you will visit over the next two days.
After breakfast at your hotel, we begin the Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing Tour with visits to three of the most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Kathmandu Durbar Square
Our first stop is Kathmandu Durbar Square, a historical palace complex at the heart of the Kathmandu Valley. This ancient square was once the royal palace and is surrounded by beautiful temples, shrines, and courtyards. You will explore the impressive architecture, including the Taleju Temple, the Kal Bhairav statue, and the intricate carvings and woodwork of the Hanuman Dhoka Palace. It is a perfect introduction to Nepal’s rich history, culture, and architectural heritage.
Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)
Next, we drive to Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple. Perched on a hilltop, it offers panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley. The stupa is one of the most famous and revered sites in Nepal, with a rich history that dates back over 2,000 years. As you explore the complex, you'll encounter prayer flags, shrines, and numerous monkeys that inhabit the area. The vibrant atmosphere and stunning views make it a truly unforgettable experience.
Boudhanath Stupa
The final stop for today is Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest and holiest Tibetan Buddhist stupas in Nepal. Its colossal mandala and peaceful ambiance create an aura of serenity. You’ll witness monks and pilgrims performing their rituals, circumambulating the stupa while spinning prayer wheels. Boudhanath is an important center for Tibetan culture and one of the most prominent pilgrimage sites in the Kathmandu Valley. After a thorough exploration, you will return to your hotel for the evening.
On the second day of your tour, we will explore two other historically rich cities within the Kathmandu Valley: Patan and Bhaktapur.
Patan Durbar Square
After breakfast, we will head to Patan, located just across the Bagmati River from Kathmandu. Patan Durbar Square is known for its well-preserved temples, statues, and courtyards. Here, you’ll visit the Mahabouddha Temple, the Hiranya Varna Mahavihar, and the stunning Krishna Mandir, which showcases intricate Newari architecture. Patan is also famous for its artisans, and you can explore the many galleries and shops showcasing traditional arts and crafts.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square
After Patan, we will proceed to Bhaktapur, a medieval city that retains its ancient charm and architecture. Bhaktapur Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its grand temples, palaces, and the 55-Window Palace. Here, you’ll also visit the Vatsala Temple, the Nyatapola Temple (a five-story pagoda), and the famous Lion’s Gate. The city is famous for its preserved culture, and as you wander through its narrow streets, you’ll encounter artisans creating pottery, wood carvings, and textiles. Bhaktapur is also known for its delicious local food, and you might have the opportunity to sample the local delicacy, "king curd" (juju dhau), while in the square.
After exploring Bhaktapur, we will return to Kathmandu, where the rest of the day is free for you to shop for souvenirs, relax, or explore more of the city at your leisure.
On your final day in Nepal, depending on your flight schedule, you will have some free time to relax, do some last-minute shopping in Thamel, or explore more of Kathmandu. A representative from Himalayan Escape Adventure will escort you to the airport for your departure, bringing an end to your memorable Kathmandu Three City Sightseeing Tour.
End of the Journey
Thank you for choosing Himalayan Escape Adventure for your sightseeing tour in Kathmandu. We hope you leave with unforgettable memories of Nepal’s rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. We look forward to welcoming you on another adventure in the future!
The Kathmandu Three-City Sightseeing Tour is an exciting and immersive cultural journey through three of the most significant cities in the Kathmandu Valley: Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan. These ancient cities are home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, historic temples, stunning palaces, and traditional Newari architecture. This tour offers an excellent opportunity to explore the rich history, art, and culture of the Kathmandu Valley in a single day or two, depending on your schedule.
During the Kathmandu Three-City Sightseeing Tour, you will visit the following key highlights:
Kathmandu:Visit iconic sites like Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Kathmandu Durbar Square, and the holy temple of Pashupatinath. Kathmandu is known for its vibrant culture and bustling streets, making it a perfect starting point for your tour.
Bhaktapur:Explore Bhaktapur Durbar Square, one of the best-preserved medieval squares in Nepal. Here, you’ll see the famous 55-Window Palace, Vatsala Temple, and stunning pagoda-style architecture. Bhaktapur is also famous for its traditional Newar culture and incredible pottery.
Patan:Visit Patan Durbar Square, which houses temples, courtyards, and the stunning Patan Museum, showcasing centuries-old artifacts and artwork. The city’s history as a center for craftsmanship and art will captivate you as you explore its narrow lanes and ancient buildings.
The tour is designed to immerse you in the history and beauty of each city, offering a mix of religious, cultural, and architectural experiences.
The Kathmandu Three-City Sightseeing Tour can typically be completed in one or two full days, depending on the time you’d like to spend at each location and your interest in each site. A one-day tour includes a quick yet comprehensive exploration of the major highlights of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan. For a more relaxed pace, the tour can be spread out over two days to fully appreciate the beauty and history of each city.
The best time to do the Kathmandu Three-City Sightseeing Tour is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer pleasant weather with clear skies, making it ideal for sightseeing. The temperature is moderate, and you can comfortably walk around the historical sites. The summer months (June to August) are monsoon season, and winter (December to February) can be quite cold, but the tour can still be conducted year-round with appropriate preparations.
Yes, the Kathmandu Three-City Sightseeing Tour is suitable for families, including those with children or elderly members. The tour involves walking through historic sites, but we ensure that the pace is comfortable and that the locations are accessible. Our guides are experienced at tailoring the tour to suit the needs and interests of all group members, making the experience enjoyable for everyone.
During the Kathmandu Three-City Sightseeing Tour, Himalayan Escape Adventure provides comfortable, private transportation, such as a car, van, or bus, depending on your group size. This allows you to travel between the cities and their attractions comfortably, avoiding the hassle of public transportation. Our experienced drivers ensure a safe and smooth journey throughout the tour.
Yes, some of the historical and cultural sites in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan require entry fees. For example, Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, and Patan Durbar Square all have small fees for visitors. The costs are generally minimal but vary slightly depending on the site. Himalayan Escape Adventure will inform you of the fees in advance and assist with any necessary payments.
For the Kathmandu Three-City Sightseeing Tour, it’s recommended to wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes, as you will be walking around various sites, including temples and squares with uneven terrain. As many of the sites are religious, modest clothing (covering shoulders and knees) is also a good idea when visiting temples and other sacred areas. Depending on the weather, consider bringing a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a light jacket.
At Himalayan Escape Adventure, we aim to offer a personalized, educational, and enjoyable experience. Our knowledgeable guides are passionate about Nepal's history, culture, and architecture, providing you with insightful commentary at each site. We prioritize comfort and convenience, ensuring smooth transportation between the cities, avoiding long lines, and managing logistics. Our goal is to give you an authentic and memorable experience while exploring the Kathmandu Valley’s best historical treasures.
