The aroma of freshly made "Chiya’’ - Nepalese tea drifts from street vendors, mixing with the smell of incense burning in ancient temples, while the early echoes of bells serve as your morning alarm. This is Kathmandu, where the air is alive with the energetic chaos of the locals.
Our 4-Kathmandu Tour Package from India will take you on a journey like no other! Featuring a handful of the capital’s most prominent attractions, like Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square, this tour will help you delve deep into Nepal’s rich cultural legacies and deep-rooted history.
Not only this, you’ll also be exploring two other equally popular cities of Nepal, namely Lalitpur and Bhaktapur, which hold their own unique identity in terms of architecture, food cuisines, and atmosphere.
Get a chance to visit the famous Patan and Bhaktapur Durbar Square, which have for centuries stood as remarkable symbols of Nepal’s rich artistic heritage and traditional architecture.
But wait, there’s more! For an even immersive experience, you’ll also be taken to Nagarkot, which offers a touch of nature and stunning Himalayan landscapes away from the metropolitan buzz.
Tour Kathmandu: Popular For and Featured Attractions
We’ve prepared a table down below that highlights the attractions that you’ll be exploring in Kathmandu and discover what makes each site worth visiting!
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Destination |
Popular For |
Featured Attractions |
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Kathmandu |
Historical temples, bustling markets, rich festivals, and spectacular food cuisines |
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Experience the Spiritual Essence of Pashupatinath Temple
To jump start your tour in Kathmandu, you’ll firstly explore Pashupatinath Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who symbolizes spiritual awakening, new beginnings, and rebirth in Hindu culture.
Although the exact origins of the temple are not found, it’s believed to have been established during the 4th century during the Licchavi dynasty. The Pashupatinath temple holds high religious and spiritual significance for many Hindu pilgrims. It’s believed that performing one’s last rites here can help the deceased gain “moksha” - liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
Additionally, Pashupatinath Temple also forms part of the Kathmandu UNESCO World Heritage Site Property, which was inscribed in 1979 and is home to many other prominent attractions like Vasuki Nath Temple, Bhairav Nath Temple, and Guhyeshwari Temple.
The Sandhya Aarati, which happens during the evening hours, is one of the temple’s most auspicious times, as priests engage in an aarti program, sing bhajans, light oil lamps, and offer prayers to Lord Shiva.
Go on a Kora Walk in the Sacred Boudhanath Stupa
Another revered site that you’ll be visiting on this tour is the Boudhanath Stupa, which is believed to have been established around the 5th century, although its exact origins still remain a topic of debate.
Functioning as a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists, this destination features a white stupa (dome) that stands a staggering height of more than 100 feet! The harmika, which is a square tower, is situated on top of the dome and features the striking painted eyes of Lord Buddha.
During your time here, you’ll also get to see many devotees going on kora (circumambulation) walk around the stupa, as this practice is said to bring good fortune and luck in one’s life. The surrounding areas near the stupa offer many handicraft shops, rooftop cafes, local restaurants, and small souvenir shops, which certainly magnify the beauty of this destination.
Witness the Timeless Beauty of Swayambhunath Stupa
Also known as the “Monkey Temple”, Swayambhunath Stupais one of Kathmandu’s most prominent spiritual landmarks for buddhists. Dedicated to Lord Buddha, this destination is believed to have been constructed under the guidance of King Manadeva. The temple is also decorated with colorful prayer flags, smaller shrines, and prayer wheels.
Designated as a part of the Kathmandu UNESCO World Heritage Site Property in 1979, the temple is located on a hilltop and requires visitors to climb more than 300 steps to reach its summit.
To get the best experience, you can go on a kora (circumambulation) walk, light butter lamps, turn prayer wheels, or simply soak in the spiritual atmosphere of this revered destination.
Step Back in Time at Kathmandu Durbar Square
Continuing on, you’ll make your way to Kathmandu Durbar Square, a royal plaza that was established in the early Lichhavi period between 450-750 CE.
Often also referred to as Basantapur Durbar and Hanuman Dhoka, this square complex is divided into 2 parts, which are the Inner and Outer area. The inner area comprises Hanuman Dhoka palace which is now a part of the museum, and the outer consists of several other historical monuments like the Kasthamandap, Kumari Ghar, and Shiva-Parvati Temple.
Additionally, for many Nepali devotees, this destination carries immense religious significance, as there are many historical temples and shrines of idols of Hindu gods located here. Many cultural festivals are also celebrated each year, like Indra Jatra and Ghode Jatra.
Rather than functioning as a single landmark, this attraction houses several religious landmarks, where a few of the most prominent ones include Taleju Temple, Kumari Ghar, Hanuman Dhoka, and the glorious Kal Bhairab Statue.
Shop for Local Souvenirs in Thamel
Your Kathmandu tour wouldn’t be complete with exploring the vibrant Thamel area. Whether you’re someone who enjoys shopping, trying out new cuisines, or strolling down lively alleyways, this destination has something for everyone! Being a major tourist hub, Thamel is best explored during the evening time, when the streets come alive with colorful lights.
Discover the Scenic Beauty of Nagarkot
This tour will also take you to Nagarkot (located outside of Kathmandu), a hill station renowned for its panoramic views of the Himalayas!
Suitable for travelers who are into nature and photography, this attraction is also known for catching those unforgettable sunrise/sunset views. Away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Nagarkot will provide you the perfect place to destress and reconnect with nature.
Explore Bhaktapur: Popular For and Featured Attractions
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Destination |
Popular For |
Featured Attraction |
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Bhaktapur |
Traditional Newari culture, old temples, medieval architecture, woodcarving, pottery making, and local delicacies like Juju Dhau (King of Curds) |
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After exploring Kathmandu, you’ll continue on your journey to Bhaktapur, a historic city celebrated for its rich Newari culture, beautifully preserved temples, historic architecture, and traditional craftsmanship.
Here, you’ll tour Bhaktapur Durbar Square which consists of 4 main areas, namely the Durbar Square, Taumadhi Square, Dattatreya Square, and Pottery Square. Ideal for history and culture enthusiasts, this area consists of numerous historical palaces, temples, religious monuments, stone sculptures, and traditional courtyards.
A few highlights here include the Palace of 55 Windows (Pachpanna Jhyale Durbar), The Golden Gate (Sun Dhoka), Naga Pokhari (Royal Bath), and Nyatapola Temple, among others.
Discover Lalitpur: Popular For and Featured Attractions
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Destination |
Popular For |
Featured Attraction |
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Lalitpur |
Hindu and Buddhist heritage, historic temples/courtyards, local cafes, and handicraft shops |
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You’ll end your tour by visiting Lalitpur, famed for its traditional architecture, vibrant local markets, cozy cafes, and old temples.
Your visit here will focus on Patan Durbar Square, where you’ll be able to see a number of ancient temple sites, courtyards, and shrines dedicated to various Hindu deities.
Among its many notable landmarks are the Krishna Mandir, Patan Museum, Sundari Chowk & Tusa Hiti, and Golden Temple (Hiranya Varna Mahavihar). Beyond its historical significance, the durbar square also functions as a lively gathering place for locals, as it’s surrounded by traditional shops, cafes, and numerous eateries.


