Kathmandu World Heritage Full Day Culture Tour

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

• 1
  Swaymbhunath

  The trip begins with a private vehicle that goes to Swayambhu, also known as Monkey Temple because of the abundance of Rhesus monkeys that call this place home. It's up to the long stairs to the top of the hill where there is an incredible overlook of the Kathmandu Valley. On top is a large stupa as well as a number of Hindu temples. Your guide will explain the unique synergy between Buddhism and Hinduism in Nepal.

  1 hour • Admission ticket not included
• 2
  Kathmandu Durbar Square

  The next stop is Kathmandu Durbar Square, which is home of almost 60 temples, old royal palace, museum and a chance to see The Kumari or Living Goddess. The trip to Kathmandu Durbar Square also includes a side visit to the Hippie Mecca of Freak Street. It was here in the late 60s and early 70s that the Hippies found legal marijuana and spiritual experiences. The hippies, along with the legal marijuana are now gone, but the place now features interesting little boutique shops and eateries.

  1 hour • Admission ticket not included
• 3
  Kumari Chowk

  Prepare for one of the most unique cultural encounters in the world. This guided visit takes you to the Kumari Chowk, the sacred courtyard and residence of the Royal Kumari of Kathmandu, a young prepubescent girl revered by both Hindus and Buddhists as the "Living Goddess." This 18th-century palace, located in the heart of the Kathmandu Durbar Square UNESCO World Heritage site, is a masterpiece of Newari architecture. Your guide will point out the exquisitely carved windows and stunning wooden details that make this one of the most beautiful courtyards in Nepal. This is not a museum; it is a living, sacred home. You will wait in the courtyard for the chance of a truly special moment: a rare public appearance of the Living Goddess as she briefly greets devotees from her window. (Note: Photography of the Kumari is strictly forbidden). This is an unforgettable, "must-see" highlight of any visit to Kathmandu.

  5 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 4

  Prepare to be awestruck by one of the most powerful and impressive attractions in the Kathmandu Durbar Square UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is the massive, open-air statue of Kala Bhairav, the "Black Terror" or "Anger God." This 17th-century masterpiece, carved from a single giant stone, depicts the fearsome, destructive incarnation of the Hindu god Lord Shiva. You will see him trampling a demon, adorned with a garland of skulls. This is not just a statue; it's a living shrine and a "must-see" highlight. For centuries, this deity has been revered as the supreme judge (people once swore oaths of truth before it) and the divine protector of the entire royal palace complex. Your guide will explain its fascinating, and sometimes terrifying, history.

  15 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 5
  Pashupatinath Temple

  Unlock the profound secrets of Pashupatinath Temple, Nepal's most sacred Hindu site and a powerful UNESCO World Heritage landmark. This is not just a visit; it's a deep cultural immersion, and the only way to truly understand it is with an expert. Our professional, certified guide will lead your intimate small group, ensuring a personal and respectful experience. You'll move beyond the surface as your guide explains the deep religious, cultural, and historical significance of this holy place. Witness the ancient Hindu rituals on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River, learn about the famous open-air cremation ghats, and understand the lives of the iconic Sadhus (holy men). With an expert guide to provide context, you'll gain a profound insight into the cycle of life and death that defines this "must-see" destination.

  1 hour • Admission ticket not included
• 6
  Pashupatinath Temple

  This guided tour takes you to the Pashupatinath Temple, Nepal's most sacred Hindu sanctuary and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As one of the most important pilgrimage destinations for Hindus worldwide, this sprawling complex is a "must-see" on any Kathmandu itinerary. Follow your expert guide through a vibrant world of devotion as they explain the history and significance of the various temples, shrines, and statues that make up this holy city. This visit includes a respectful observation from the banks of the holy Bagmati River. Here, you will witness the ancient, open-air cremation ghats, a powerful and unforgettable part of daily life where the faithful's ashes are scattered into the sacred waters, symbolizing the eternal Hindu cycle of life and death.

  1 hour • Admission ticket free
• 7
  Boudhanath Stupa

  Experience the powerful, peaceful heart of Tibetan Buddhism at Boudhanath Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest stupas in the entire world. This is a "must-see" highlight of any Kathmandu visit. Gaze up at the colossal white mandala, topped by the iconic, gold-gilded spire with the all-seeing wisdom eyes of the Buddha watching over the valley. This sacred site is the center of life for Nepal's large Tibetan community, and you'll immediately feel its vibrant, spiritual energy. Join pilgrims and monks as they perform the kora (a ritual walk) around the stupa, spinning prayer wheels and chanting "Om Mani Padme Hum." The air is filled with the scent of juniper incense and the sound of sacred mantras. After your visit, enjoy lunch at one of the many rooftop restaurants (at your own expense) for a truly fantastic, world-class view of the stupa and the bustling square below.

  1 hour • Admission ticket not included

Additional info

• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Please contact the local tour operator after booking to confirm your pickup location; tour operator contact information will be on your confirmation voucher.

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