A Kathmandu tour that includes Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath, Boudhanath Stupa, and Patan Durbar Square will allow you to experience the rich cultural and religious heritage of the city. Here's a suggested itinerary for your Kathmandu day tour:
Kathmandu Day Tour Itinerary:
Morning:
1. Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple):
- Start your day by visiting Swayambhunath, one of the oldest and most important religious sites in Kathmandu.
- Climb the stairs to reach the stupa, which sits atop a hill, providing a panoramic view of the city.
- Explore the stupa complex, which includes shrines, statues, prayer wheels, and colorful flags.
- Watch the playful monkeys that inhabit the area, which has earned it the nickname "Monkey Temple."
After Swayambhunath: 2. Pashupatinath:
- Drive to Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu temples in Nepal and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Observe the traditional pagoda-style architecture and the sacred Bagmati River flowing alongside the temple.
- Respectfully observe the rituals and cremation ghats along the riverbank, as Pashupatinath is also a significant place for Hindu cremations.
Lunch Break:
- Take a break for lunch at a local restaurant in Kathmandu. You can find various restaurants serving Nepali, Tibetan, and international cuisines.
Afternoon: 3. Boudhanath Stupa:
- Visit Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest stupas in Nepal and an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists.
- Explore the stupa's massive mandala and its unique structure with the all-seeing eyes of Buddha.
- Take a stroll around the stupa's premises, where you'll find numerous shops, monasteries, and cafes.
4. Patan Durbar Square:
- Drive to Patan, also known as Lalitpur, to visit Patan Durbar Square, another UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Explore the historic square with its intricately carved temples, palaces, and courtyards.
- Visit the Patan Museum to learn more about the city's art, history, and culture.
Evening:
- After exploring Patan Durbar Square, you can return to your accommodation in Kathmandu or spend some time in the bustling streets of the city.
DAY TOUR NAGARKOT-CHAGUNARAYA-BHAKTAPUR
Morning:
- Early morning departure from Kathmandu to Nagarkot (approx. 1.5 to 2 hours drive).
- Nagarkot is famous for its stunning sunrise and panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest (on clear days).
Mid-Morning:
- Enjoy the sunrise view from one of the viewpoints in Nagarkot.
- Have breakfast at a local restaurant or your hotel in Nagarkot.
Hike to Changu Narayan:
- Start the hike from Nagarkot to Changu Narayan (approx. 3 to 4 hours, depending on the pace).
- The hike offers beautiful landscapes, terraced fields, and local villages along the way.
Afternoon:
- Arrive at Changu Narayan Temple, an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and showcases intricate carvings and historical significance.
Drive to Bhaktapur:
- After visiting Changu Narayan Temple, drive to Bhaktapur (approx. 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic).
Bhaktapur Sightseeing:
- Explore Bhaktapur Durbar Square, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and ancient royal palace.
- Visit other prominent landmarks in Bhaktapur, such as Nyatapola Temple, 55-Window Palace, and Bhairavnath Temple.
- •Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and traditional Newari architecture of Bhaktapur.
Late Afternoon:
- Drive back to Kathmandu from Bhaktapur (approx. 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic).
CHISAPANI –NAGARKOT TREKKING
The Kathmandu Valley is a treasure trove of cultural, historical, and natural wonders. Here are some popular day tours you can take to explore the attractions within the valley:
A two-day trek from Chisapani to Nagarkot offers a delightful journey through the beautiful landscapes of the Kathmandu Valley. This trek allows you to experience the natural beauty of the region and witness stunning mountain views. Here's a suggested itinerary for the Chisapani-Nagarkot trek:
Day 1: Chisapani to Nagarkot Trek
Morning:
- Depart from Kathmandu early in the morning and drive to Sundarijal, which is the starting point of the trek. The drive takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Begin your trek from Sundarijal towards Chisapani.
Trek to Chisapani:
- The trek from Sundarijal to Chisapani takes around 4 to 5 hours, depending on your pace and the trail conditions.
- The trail ascends through lush forests, passing by streams and waterfalls, and offers occasional views of the Kathmandu Valley.
Chisapani: Sunset Views
- Arrive at Chisapani in the late afternoon.
- Chisapani is a picturesque village known for its panoramic sunset views over the Langtang and Ganesh Himal ranges.
- Enjoy the serene atmosphere and the beautiful sunset from the vantage points in Chisapani.
Overnight in Chisapani:
- Stay overnight in a guesthouse or teahouse in Chisapani.
Day 2: Chisapani to Nagarkot Trek
Morning: Sunrise Views
- Wake up early in the morning to witness the mesmerizing sunrise over the mountains from Chisapani.
Trek to Nagarkot:
- After breakfast, begin your trek from Chisapani to Nagarkot.
- The trek takes approximately 6 to 7 hours, passing through lush forests and small villages along the way.
- You'll be rewarded with stunning views of the Himalayan ranges, including Mount Everest (on clear days).
Nagarkot: Sunset Views
- Arrive at Nagarkot in the late afternoon.
- Nagarkot is renowned for its panoramic views of the Himalayas, making it an ideal spot to enjoy the sunset over the snow-capped peaks.
Departure:
- After sunset, you can either choose to stay overnight in Nagarkot or drive back to Kathmandu (approximately 1.5 to 2 hours).
Please note that the trekking times are approximate and can vary based on your walking pace and weather conditions. This trek is relatively moderate in difficulty, but some sections may involve uphill climbs and uneven terrain. Hiring a local guide can enhance your trekking experience, as they can provide valuable insights, ensure your safety, and help with navigation.
Additionally, for the best views, it's recommended to plan the trek during the months with good weather, typically in the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). Enjoy the beautiful landscapes and the tranquility of the Chisapani-Nagarkot trek!
