Trip Overview
The Kathmandu Valley Highlights Tour offers an immersive journey through this enchanting region, focusing on the intricate artistry of the Newar community, the valley’s predominant inhabitants. From the majestic durbar squares to serene hilltop temples, this tour captures the essence of Nepal’s glorious heritage and timeless beauty.
The Kathmandu, situated at an altitude of 1345 meters, serves as the vibrant capital city of Nepal. Renowned for its historical treasures, lively cultures, pagoda temples, religious sites, and bustling streets, Kathmandu is often referred to as the “City of Mandir.”
The city boasts a rich tapestry of over a thousand temples within the valley, formed by the amalgamation of three small states: Kantipur, Bhaktapur, and Patan, following King Prithivi Narayan Shah’s unification of Nepal. The Kathmandu Valley Highlight Tour encapsulates the essence of history, religion, and culture, primarily focusing on the Newar community, the valley’s predominant inhabitants.
Kathmandu Durbar Square, strategically located in the heart of the city near the tourist hub Thamel, was the palace where King Prithivi Narayan Shah established the Kingdom after moving it from Gorkha. The square features Kumari Ghar, the residence of the living goddess, chosen from the Shakya family. This girl, symbolizing purity, receives worship from the nation’s head, a tradition that has transitioned from the king to the president.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square stands out as the largest royal palace among Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur, showcasing exotic arts, the tallest temple, the golden temple, the 55 Windows Durbar, and remarkable pottery works. Meanwhile, Patan Durbar Square is renowned for its intricate wood carving and vibrant Newari culture, with the stone temple Krishna Mandir being a well-known landmark.
The Kathmandu Valley Highlights Tour also encompasses religious sites such as Pashupati, Bouddha, Swyambhu, Daskhinkali, and Changu Narayan, offering a blend of spirituality and natural beauty. Nagarkot, a nearby hill station, is famed for its panoramic sunrise views over the Himalayas.
This comprehensive tour ensures the exploration of all major highlights of the Kathmandu Valley, providing a captivating journey through its cultural, historical, and natural wonders.
Tour Highlight
- Guided city tours in Kathmandu
- Sharing the culture with typical Newar family
- Guided village tour in Pharping
- Guided tour in Historical City Patan
- Guided tour in Historical City Bhaktapur
Trip Facts
Trip Itinerary Expand All
Arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport
Welcome to Nepal! We will receive you the airport and transport you to hotel.
Pre-trip meeting and sightseeing in Kathmandu (1338m)
After your breakfast we meet at the hotel lobby for a quick pre-trip briefing. You will be introduced to your guide and we provide some general information about the tour. Please bring a copy of your travel insurance document and three passport-size photos.
Sightseeing will start after the meeting and breakfast. The trip includes a tour guide and private tourist vehicle. We will be visiting three World Heritage Sites today:
Swoyambhunath Stupa: Also called the Monkey Temple, Swayambhu is a World Heritage Site, one of the holiest places of Buddhism and also Hinduism. It is perched atop a hillock by the edge of Kathmandu city. The massive stupa is also a famous tourist site for the amazing view of the valley it sports and also the monkeys that flock to the premises, from where it derives its nickname Monkey Temple.
Kathmandu Durbar Square: Another World Heritage Site, Kathmandu Durbar Square was built in the 12th/13th century, where Malla King Dynasty ruled over the city. King Prithvi Narayan Shah of Gorkha district annexed the city almost 300 years ago. The Durbar has many different exotic architectural design, wood carving in windows and doors. The courtyard, temples, Kumari (a Living Goddess) is the main attraction of Durbar Square. Inside the square, there is a museum that belongs to Kings and reflects of his regime period.
Pashupatinath Temple: One of the most sacred Hindu shrines in the world, which is the opulently decorated pagoda. It is a temple of Lord Shiva and his Linga (Phallic Symbol of Lord). Legend has it that the temple was constructed in 400AD. You will be able to witness cremation of the deceased and holy baths that devotees take in the river Bagmati. Pashupatinath is next to a small protected forest, so you will likely encounter monkeys, deer, and other animals.
Sightseeing in Pharping (Daksinkali/ Gorakhnath cave) and Patan Durbar Square
Today we tour around the valley covering historical, natural and religious places.
Pharping: Pharping lies south of Kathmandu and is also known as Shikharpuri Mahanagari. The state is accepted as an independent Newari state; there you can see a typical Newari culture.
Dakshinkali Temple: Dakshinkali is 22kms from Kathmandu city via Pharping. It is a temple of Kali, a form Parvati (wife of Lord Shiva). The main goddess of the temple is a Six-armed form of Kali carved on a black stone. Especially on Saturdays and Tuesdays, animal sacrifices are performed here.
Patan Durbar Square: Decorated with artistic courtyard beautiful pagoda temples, Patan Durbar Square is another World Heritage Site that has a noticeable temple built to dedicated to Lord Krishna, made of stone in the 17th century. There is a museum containing bronze statues and religious objects. The trip of Patan also covers the Tibetan Refugee Camp and handicraft center.
Guided sightseeing at Boudhanath Stupa, Changunarayan Temple and an evening drive to Nagarkot hillstation
Bouddhanath Stupa: The giant dome monument of Buddha is located on the eastern outskirts of Kathmandu city. It is a sacred pilgrim destination of Buddhists and draws folks in thousands every day for prayers. The Stupa is 36 meters high and presents a captivating specimen of Stupa design.
Changunarayan Temple (World Heritage Site) Chagunarayan Temple is located in the countryside of Bhaktapur. King Hari Dutta Verma built the temple in 323 AD and the structure is richly decorated with sculptures and carvings. The main god of the temple is Lord Vishnu and its architecture is pagoda-style.
Nagarkot: Nagarkot is one of the closest hill stations you can reach from Kathmandu. From here you can see excellent views of snow-capped peaks of the Himalayan Range on the eastern part. Nagarkot is also the best for sunrise view.
Drive back to Kathmandu via Bhaktapur Durbar Square after watching the sunrise view from Nagarkot Hill Station.
We wake up early today to witness the sunrise over panoramic views of the Himalayas on the horizon. After breakfast, we drive back to Kathmandu via Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a palace premises with a collection of Shikhara- and Pagoda-style temples and the 55-windows palace made of brick and wood. The main attraction of Bhaktapur is the Lions Gate, Golden Gate, Statue of King Bhupatindra Malla and art galleries among others. After completing the tour, we drive to Kathmandu.
Trip conclude
Finally, the entire trip is over.
Join the Departure
Join the departures
Guest Reviews
We highly recommend Broad Adventures they provided exceptional guidance on our Everest Base Camp trek. Our guide’s Gynau’s professionalism,...
Read More...David Neufeld
CanadaIf you are looking for a tour to see the Mt Everest base camp look no further. I have...
Read More...Tim Troost
AustraliaI was looking at an exotic trek adventure. After looking for a bunch of places to go I thought...
Read More...Keith B.
USAKeshab was our most gracious and amiable guide in Kathmandu and to Everest basecamp. My wife accompanied me on...
Read More...Ken Byers , Nevada
USAMy son and I went for trekking in Nepal in 2009, and we were lucky to have Keshab Khanal...
Read More...Dr. Raphael Hemmendinger
Jerusalem , IsraelIn 2005 I came to Nepal for the second time, this time whith a very specific queste. I wanted...
Read More...Richard Rijken
Amsterdam , NetherlandsI was always willing to go to the Himalayas and explore some of the beauties hidden in the sacred...
Read More...John Peter
Manchester , United KingdomNamaste! This was my first time to Nepal, and I had an amazing time on my trek. From the...
Read More...David Patrician
Hamburg , GermanyI was on trekking from 24.10.10 to 5.11.10 in the half part of Annapurna circuit from Bhulbhule to Jomsom....
Read More...Vaya Bairaba
Athens , GreeceImportant Info
Ultimate Guide to Kathmandu Valley Highlights
Kathmandu, situated at an altitude of 1,345 meters, serves as the vibrant capital city of Nepal. Renowned for its historical treasures, lively cultures, pagoda temples, religious sites, and bustling streets, Kathmandu is often referred to as the “City of Mandir.” The Kathmandu Valley, formed by the amalgamation of three small states—Kantipur (Kathmandu), Bhaktapur, and Patan—following King Prithivi Narayan Shah’s unification of Nepal, is rich in cultural and historical significance. The Kathmandu Valley Highlight Tour encapsulates the essence of history, religion, and culture, primarily focusing on the Newar community, the valley’s predominant inhabitants.
Key Highlights of Kathmandu Valley Highlights
- Kathmandu Durbar Square
- Location: Heart of Kathmandu, near the tourist hub Thamel.
- Historical Significance: The palace where King Prithivi Narayan Shah established the Kingdom after moving it from Gorkha.
- Key Attractions:
- Kumari Ghar: Residence of the living goddess, chosen from the Shakya family. The Kumari, symbolizing purity, is worshipped by the nation’s head, a tradition that has transitioned from the king to the president.
- Hanuman Dhoka Palace Complex: Ancient royal palace with museums and courtyards.
- Taleju Temple: A 16th-century temple dedicated to the goddess Taleju Bhawani.
- Bhaktapur Durbar Square
- Location: Bhaktapur, 13 km east of Kathmandu.
- Historical Significance: The largest royal palace among Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur.
- Key Attractions:
- Golden Gate: An exquisite entrance to the 55 Windows Palace.
- Nyatapola Temple: The tallest temple in the Kathmandu Valley, dedicated to Siddhi Lakshmi.
- Vatsala Temple: Known for its stone architecture and bell.
- Pottery Square: Famous for traditional pottery works.
- Patan Durbar Square
- Location: Patan (Lalitpur), 5 km south of Kathmandu.
- Historical Significance: Renowned for its intricate wood carvings and vibrant Newari culture.
- Key Attractions:
- Krishna Mandir: A stone temple dedicated to Lord Krishna.
- Hiranya Varna Mahavihar (Golden Temple): A 12th-century Buddhist monastery.
- Mahabouddha Temple: Known for its thousand Buddhas in terracotta.
- Religious Sites
- Pashupatinath Temple: A sacred Hindu temple complex on the banks of the Bagmati River, known for its Shiva Linga and cremation ghats.
- Boudhanath Stupa: One of the largest stupas in the world and a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists.
- Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): A UNESCO World Heritage Site offering panoramic views of Kathmandu and a rich Buddhist history.
- Dakshinkali Temple: Dedicated to the goddess Kali, known for animal sacrifices.
- Changu Narayan Temple: The oldest temple in the Kathmandu Valley, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, with intricate carvings and sculptures.
- Nagarkot
- Location: 32 km east of Kathmandu, at an elevation of 2,175 meters.
- Highlights: Famed for its panoramic sunrise views over the Himalayas, including Mount Everest on clear days. A serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, offering hiking trails and a peaceful environment.
Travel Tips
- Transportation: Hiring a local guide and a private vehicle is recommended for an in-depth and comfortable tour of the valley.
- Permits and Fees: Some sites require entry fees. Carry cash (Nepalese Rupees) for these payments.
- Dress Code: Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Remove shoes before entering temples and stupas.
- Photography: Ask for permission before photographing people or religious ceremonies.
- Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on trying Newari cuisine, including dishes like momo, chatamari, and yomari.
Conclusion
The Kathmandu Valley Highlights Tour ensures the exploration of all major highlights of the Kathmandu Valley, providing a captivating journey through its cultural, historical, and natural wonders. From the bustling streets of Kathmandu to the serene hill station of Nagarkot, this tour offers a comprehensive and enriching experience of Nepal’s vibrant heritage.
Get Trip PDF file
Why travel with
Broad Adventures
Since 2010, we have curated unique itineraries that offer once-in-a-lifetime experiences, ensuring every trip is filled with joy and adventure. Our focus on the fun factor and the right amount of challenge allows you to achieve a profound sense of personal accomplishment, all while enjoying the camaraderie of like-minded travelers.
Small-Group Adventures
Join an intimate group of like-minded travelers who share your passion for discovering the world's wonders safely and confidently. Our small group settings foster a deeper connection with your fellow explorers and the incredible destinations we visit.
Expert Local Guides
We exclusively employ local guides and porters for their unparalleled knowledge and expertise. Their insights and firsthand experiences enrich your journey, giving you a deeper understanding and appreciation of the local culture, history, and environment.
Responsible for Tourism
Your safety is our utmost priority. Our dedicated team of trained professionals ensures the highest standards of care, including providing fresh and hygienic meals, comprehensive First Aid supplies, and round-the-clock communication services. We are committed to responsible tourism practices, emphasizing the importance of sustainable and ethical travel.
Health and Saftey
Promoting responsible tourism is essential, as it calls for a collective effort from everyone involved in the industry. By prioritizing health and safety, we ensure that each journey is not only enjoyable but also respectful of the destinations and communities we visit.
How can we help you?
- City Tour Equipment
- City Tour Season
- Climbing Equipment
- Climbing Season
- General Questions
- Guide and Staffs
- Nepal Overview
- Tipping
- Transportations
- Trekking Equipment
- Trekking Season
- VISA info
- Weather and Temperature
Do you provide any equipment for the trek?
Broad Adventure provides you a basic equipment like a Sleeping Bag and a down Jacket, for the tea-house trek. And for the climbing trip, we provide the basic equipment. For a camping trek check it once including the section.
What is the time zone of Nepal?
NPT (UTC+05:45)
What cultural attractions can I explore in Kathmandu?
Kathmandu is home to historical sites like Durbar Square, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), and Pashupatinath Temple. These landmarks showcase Nepal’s rich cultural and religious heritage, providing visitors with a deep insight into the country’s history.
What are the must-visit cities in Nepal?
Kathmandu, Pokhara, Bhaktapur, and Patan are popular cities offering rich cultural experiences. Each city has its own unique charm, historical sites, and vibrant local markets.
Do you provide any equipment for the trek?
Broad Adventure provides you a basic equipment like a Sleeping Bag and a down Jacket, for the tea-house trek. And for the climbing trip, we provide the basic equipment. For a camping trek check it once including the section.
Do I need to tip the guide and porters? What is the standard tip?
Tips is expected by your team members and normally the standard is 10% of your total trip cost.
What is the climbing season in Nepal?
The main climbing seasons are spring (April to May) and autumn (September to November). During these times, the weather is more stable, providing safer and more favorable conditions for climbing expeditions.
Are there other mountains in Nepal suitable for climbing?
Yes, Nepal is home to numerous trekking peaks and mountains suitable for climbing, such as Island Peak, Mera Peak, and Lobuche East. These peaks offer a challenging yet rewarding experience for climbers of various skill levels.
Can I climb Mount Everest as a tourist?
Climbing Mount Everest requires significant preparation, experience, and permits. Most climbers join organized expeditions with experienced guides. Climbing Everest is a serious undertaking that demands physical fitness, technical skills, and a high level of commitment.
Do I need to tip the guide and porters? What is the standard tip?
Tips is expected by your team members and normally the standard is 10% of your total trip cost.
What is the voltage and plug type used in Nepal?
The standard voltage is 230V, and the plug type is the Europlug (Type C) and the British-style plug (Type D). It’s advisable to bring adapters if necessary.
What is the voltage and plug type used in Nepal?
The standard voltage is 230V, and the plug type is the Europlug (Type C) and the British-style plug (Type D). It’s advisable to bring adapters if necessary.
Is it necessary to get travel insurance for Nepal?
Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended, especially for trekking and adventure activities. Ensure that your insurance covers medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellations.
What languages are spoken in Nepal?
The official language is Nepali, but English is widely understood in tourist areas. Additionally, various ethnic groups have their own languages.
What is the currency used in Nepal, and are credit cards widely accepted?
The official currency is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). While major cities and tourist areas accept credit cards, it’s advisable to carry cash in remote areas. ATMs are available in urban centers.
How can I get around within cities in Nepal?
Transportation options include taxis, rickshaws, and local buses. Walking is also a great way to explore the cities, especially in the old quarters. Many cities have well-preserved historic areas, and navigating them on foot allows for a more immersive experience.
What cultural attractions can I explore in Kathmandu?
Kathmandu is home to historical sites like Durbar Square, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), and Pashupatinath Temple. These landmarks showcase Nepal’s rich cultural and religious heritage, providing visitors with a deep insight into the country’s history.
Can I climb Mount Everest as a tourist?
Climbing Mount Everest requires significant preparation, experience, and permits. Most climbers join organized expeditions with experienced guides. Climbing Everest is a serious undertaking that demands physical fitness, technical skills, and a high level of commitment.
Are permits required for trekking in Nepal?
Yes, trekking permits are required for most trekking regions. The type of permit depends on the specific trekking area. It’s important to obtain the necessary permits from the respective authorities to support local conservation and management efforts.
When is the best season for treks in Nepal?
From March to mid-June and September to December is the best season for treks.
What is the fitness required for the treks?
Generally, to trek in Nepal we should have good physical and health conditions. And also able to walk 4- 7 hours in day at a high altitude with your little backpack.
Do you pick me up at the Airport upon my arrival?
Yes, our airport representative welcomes you at the airport and transfers you to the hotel in a private tourist vehicle.
Does my guide/porter speak English?
They speak English. All the guides are professional and due to their professionalism, they speak good English. The guide’s English is enough to explain the local culture, activities, and religions.
Are the treks and tours secured? What about the security?
Providing security to our clients is our principal. The government-licensed holder guides and other crew members are carefully assigned for your trip. Even though, would like to counsel you to take care of your equipment, and bags. If you doing a tea-house trek your accommodation is in a local guesthouse, where you have to be a precaution yourself at all times. And if you are on a camping trek always keep your bags inside the tent and while at nighttime please keep your bag in the middle of the tent. The camping leader assigns a Sherpa as a guard throughout the nighttime.
What sort of ground transportation do you use?
Normally we assign a car for up to 2 people and a Jeep for up to 5 people and then a bus for up to 14 PAX and Coster and Sutlej Bus depending on group size. There are some trekking routes, which are dirt roads for them we assign 4WD Jeeps. It also depends on what services you opt for.
Are the staff insured by your company?
Yes, all of the staff and crew members are insured.
Should I need to join the group?
Joining a group depends on your booking and the option that you choose. If you have booked for Private Trip then obviously you will not join. Otherwise, normally the same trip departs on the same day then the group will join.
Do you arrange a private trip?
Yes, of course, we will arrange a private tour.
How big is a group size?
We will try to arrange a small group of willing people, which immortalize the treks. Normally we encompass 12 -16 people in a group. (This is not to apply to those who want to do a Private Trip, no minimum and maximum for them.)
Is the drinking water okay? Or do I need to use tablets?
For drinking water you can buy bottled water and purified mineral water on tea-house treks and city tours. And in the camping trek, the camping cook provides you with boiled water. For some cases of remote area trekking it would be better to have some purification tablets that you can buy in Kathmandu.
What are the accommodations and meals like?
All the meals that you provided are hygienic and fresh. While you are on a camping trek you get meals prepared by a professional camping cook. And if you are doing a tea-house trek you will get the main course as like in the cities. For accommodation on the camping trek, you will have a tent with good-quality mattresses and a sleeping bag. And if you are on a tea-house trek you will normal twin-sharing room with basic facilities with a warm mattress and blanket, and also we provide a sleeping bag if you need it.
Is the shower facility during the tour/trek?
Yes, you can have a shower during the trek. In the camping trek, you will get a shower in a shower tent which is provided 3-4 times in the whole trek, depending on the duration of the trek. And in a tea-house trek, we will provide you attached room where possible and for the rest of town, you will pay for a shower.
Do you provide any equipment for the trek?
Broad Adventure provides you a basic equipment like a Sleeping Bag and a down Jacket, for the tea-house trek. And for the climbing trip, we provide the basic equipment. For a camping trek check it once including the section.
Is there any possibility of communicating in my hometown?
Yes, you can. In the Everest and Annapurna regions, you can connect via Phone, or Internet both available in most of the town and, in some remote routes, you may need to use a satellite phone that is carried by your trek guide or also get in the local town.
Can I charge the batteries of cameras, and phones?
Yes, you can charge your devices, but recommended you bring your plugs, and chargers and also do not leave unattended anything while charging in a lobby or somewhere in the trekking guesthouse. And if you are on a camping trek it’s quite hard to charge the phone so we advise you to bring a portable charge.
Are there any health precautions I should take before traveling to Nepal?
Vaccinations for diseases like typhoid, hepatitis, and tetanus are advisable. Altitude sickness prevention measures should be considered for high-altitude treks.
How can I find a reliable trekking guide in Nepal?
Reliable guides can be found through licensed trekking agencies, recommendations from fellow travelers, or by checking with the Nepal Tourism Board. Ensure that your guide has the necessary permits and is experienced in the chosen trekking region
Is hiring a local guide recommended for exploring Nepal?
Yes, hiring a local guide is highly recommended, especially for trekking and exploring remote areas. Guides provide valuable insights into the culture, history, and geography of the region, ensuring a safer and more enriching experience.
Is hiring a local guide recommended for exploring Nepal?
Yes, hiring a local guide is highly recommended, especially for trekking and exploring remote areas. Guides provide valuable insights into the culture, history, and geography of the region, ensuring a safer and more enriching experience.
Is Nepal a safe country for tourists?
Yes, Nepal is considered safe for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it’s essential to follow common-sense safety practices and stay updated on travel advisories. Local people are welcoming, and the country values its reputation as a safe and friendly destination.
What is the best time to visit Nepal?
The best time to visit Nepal is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is generally favorable for outdoor activities. During these periods, the skies are clear, and the temperatures are moderate.
What makes Nepal a popular tourist destination?
Nepal is renowned for its stunning Himalayan landscapes, rich cultural heritage, diverse wildlife, and warm hospitality. The country offers a unique blend of adventure, spirituality, and natural beauty.
What is the standard tip?
Tipping is subjective so it depends on your satisfaction. However, the standard is about 20% of the trip cost you can share with the staff.
Do I need to tip the guide and porters? What is the standard tip?
Tips is expected by your team members and normally the standard is 10% of your total trip cost.
Do you provide any equipment for the trek?
Broad Adventure provides you a basic equipment like a Sleeping Bag and a down Jacket, for the tea-house trek. And for the climbing trip, we provide the basic equipment. For a camping trek check it once including the section.
Are permits required for trekking in Nepal?
Yes, trekking permits are required for most trekking regions. The type of permit depends on the specific trekking area. It’s important to obtain the necessary permits from the respective authorities to support local conservation and management efforts.
Do I need a guide for trekking in Nepal?
While it’s not mandatory, hiring a local guide is highly recommended for safety, navigation, and cultural insights. Guides are familiar with the terrain, can provide valuable information about the region, and ensure a smoother trekking experience.
What are the most popular trekking destinations in Nepal?
The Everest Base Camp trek, Annapurna Circuit, Langtang Valley trek, and Manaslu Circuit are among the most popular trekking routes in Nepal. Each trek offers unique experiences, from breathtaking mountain views to encounters with diverse cultures.
When is the best season for treks in Nepal?
From March to mid-June and September to December is the best season for treks.
Do I need to tip the guide and porters? What is the standard tip?
Tips is expected by your team members and normally the standard is 10% of your total trip cost.
Can I extend my tourist visa to Nepal?
Yes, tourist visas can be extended at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or the Immigration Office in Pokhara. Extension fees and requirements vary, and it’s advisable to initiate the process a few days before the current visa expires.
What documents are required for a tourist visa on arrival?
Passport with at least six months validity, a completed visa application form (available at the airport), and two passport-sized photos are required. Additionally, visa fees must be paid in cash (USD or equivalent).
What are the types of visas available for tourists?
Tourist visas are available for duration ranging from 15 to 90 days. Extensions can be obtained within Nepal if needed. Other visa categories include business visas, student visas, and diplomatic visas, each with specific requirements.
How do I obtain a visa for Nepal?
Tourist visas for Nepal can be obtained upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or at various land entry points. Alternatively, you can apply for a visa at the Nepalese embassy or consulate in your home country before traveling.
What is the monsoon season in Nepal?
The monsoon season in Nepal runs from June to early September. During this time, the country receives heavy rainfall, particularly in the southern plains and the hilly regions. The monsoon brings lush green landscapes but can also cause landslides and flooding in some areas.
What is the time zone of Nepal?
NPT (UTC+05:45)