Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is a living museum of ancient history, diverse cultures, and sacred religious sites. The Kathmandu Day Tour is designed to give you the best experience quickly, covering the city’s most famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites and local cultural highlights in one day.

This guided day trip is ideal for first-time visitors, cultural lovers, photographers, and even repeat travelers who want to explore Kathmandu more deeply.

Highlights of the Day Tour

🕍 Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) – A 2,000-year-old stupa with panoramic views of Kathmandu.

🛕 Pashupatinath Temple – Sacred Hindu temple along the Bagmati River, famous for its spiritual atmosphere and cremation ghats.

☸️ Boudhanath Stupa – One of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world, a peaceful place filled with prayer flags and monks.

🏰 Kathmandu Durbar Square – Historic royal palace complex with ancient temples, courtyards, and the home of the Living Goddess, Kumari.

🛍️ Local Market Visit – Explore Ason or Thamel market areas for local culture, spices, and handicrafts.

Best Time for a Day Tour in Kathmandu

The Kathmandu Day Tour can be done year-round, but some seasons are better than others for clear views, pleasant weather, and a more enjoyable experience. Here’s a breakdown of the best times:

Autumn Season:   September – November    Clear skies, mild temperatures    Best season with excellent visibility and festive atmosphere (Dashain, Tihar)

Spring Season:  March – May    Warm days, blooming flowers    Ideal for walking, photography, and cultural experiences
Winter Season:    December – February    Cool and dry (mornings chilly)    Still good, but bring a warm layer especially in the early morning

Monsoon/Summer Season:  June – August    Hot, humid, occasional heavy rain    Less ideal due to rain, but temples and stupas are still beautiful and green

1. Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)

Duration: 1.5 Hours

Your tour begins with a scenic drive to Swayambhunath, one of the oldest and most iconic Buddhist sites in Nepal. This ancient stupa is perched atop a hill, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the Kathmandu Valley.

The stupa’s white dome and golden spire are topped with the all-seeing eyes of Lord Buddha. Around the complex, you'll find many shrines, temples, prayer wheels, and flocks of monkeys—which is why it's often called the Monkey Temple. It’s a peaceful place that blends Buddhism and Hinduism together, showcasing Nepal's spiritual harmony.

You’ll walk up the stone steps, take in the view, spin prayer wheels, and learn about the symbolic meaning behind its structure from your local guide.

2. Kathmandu Durbar Square

Duration: 1.5 Hours

Next, you head to the heart of old Kathmandu—Kathmandu Durbar Square, a palace complex filled with ancient temples, royal courtyards, and historical monuments. It was once the royal palace for the Malla kings and later the Shah dynasty.

You'll explore key attractions like:

• Hanuman Dhoka Palace Museum
• Kumari Ghar (House of the Living Goddess)
• Taleju Temple
• Jagannath Temple
• Traditional stone water spouts and courtyards

Your guide will share fascinating stories about the kings and queens who lived here, the earthquake restoration works, and the Living Goddess Kumari—a unique tradition of worshipping a young girl as a divine figure.

3. Pashupatinath Temple

Duration: 1.5 Hours

Pashupatinath is Nepal’s holiest Hindu temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located beside the Bagmati River, the temple complex is both spiritually intense and culturally rich.

Though non-Hindus are not allowed inside the main temple, the surroundings offer much to see

• Open-air Hindu cremation ghats
• Ascetic Sadhus in colorful robes
• Hundreds of smaller shrines and statues
• Rituals, chants, and temple activities

Your guide will explain Hindu funeral customs, the significance of Lord Shiva, and the spiritual practices that make this site so important to Nepali people.

4. Boudhanath Stupa

Duration: 1.5 Hours

Your next stop is Boudhanath, one of the largest spherical stupas in the world and a sacred center for Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal.

The white dome, colorful prayer flags, and the towering golden spire create a truly majestic and peaceful atmosphere. You’ll join locals and monks walking clockwise around the stupa, spinning prayer wheels and soaking in the serene vibe.

There are monasteries around the stupa where you can observe monks chanting, butter lamps burning, and Tibetan culture at its finest. This is a great place for spiritual reflection and beautiful photography.

5. Local Market Visit (Optional – Thamel or Ason)

Duration: 30–45 Minutes

If time permits, you can take a short walk through either Thamel or Ason Market, two of Kathmandu’s most vibrant shopping streets.

Thamel is known for souvenirs, trekking gear, local art, and handicrafts.

Ason offers a more traditional experience, with spices, herbs, utensils, and local daily goods.

Your guide will help you explore safely and recommend the best shops for authentic items.

Kathmandu Day Tour – Itinerary Table

Time    Activity

09:00 AM    Pick-up from your hotel in Kathmandu
09:30 AM    Visit Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)
11:00 AM    Explore Kathmandu Durbar Square
12:30 PM    Lunch break at local restaurant (not included)
01:30 PM    Visit Pashupatinath Temple
03:00 PM    Visit Boudhanath Stupa
04:30 PM    Optional: Stroll in local market (Thamel or Ason)
05:00 PM    Return to your hotel

Cost of Kathmandu Day Tour

Group Size    Cost per Person (USD)

1 Person    $80
2–3 People    $50
4–6 People    $40

Included in the Cost

• Private car with driver
• Professional English-speaking guide
• All heritage site entrance fees
• Mineral water during the tour
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off

Cost Not Included

• Meals and drinks
• Personal shopping expenses
• Tips to guide and driver (optional)

Frequently Asked Questions – Kathmandu Day Tour

1. What type of vehicle will be used for the tour?

We provide a comfortable private vehicle based on your group size. For solo travelers and couples, a car or SUV is used. For 3–6 people, we use a van or mini-bus. All vehicles are air-conditioned and driven by experienced local drivers who know the city well. You’ll travel in comfort throughout the day.

2. Is this a private or group tour?

This is a private tour, meaning the guide and vehicle are just for you and your group. You won’t have to share the experience with strangers. This allows you to explore at your own pace, ask more questions, spend more time in places you like, and skip places if you prefer.

3. Can I customize the itinerary?

Yes, absolutely! The itinerary is flexible. If there are specific sites you'd like to add (such as Patan Durbar Square or Garden of Dreams) or skip (due to personal interest or time), we will happily adjust the program to suit your needs. Just let us know your preferences in advance or even during the tour.

4. Do I need to pay for entrance tickets separately?

No, all entrance fees to the heritage sites (Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, and Kathmandu Durbar Square) are included in the tour price. We will handle the ticketing for you, so you can just enjoy the visit.

5. Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?

Yes, the Kathmandu Day Tour is suitable for all age groups. We can adjust walking distances and rest times based on your comfort. Some areas (like the steps at Swayambhunath) involve climbing, but alternative options or breaks can be arranged. We always keep your safety and enjoyment in mind.

6. Will the guide speak English fluently?

Yes, you will be accompanied by a licensed English-speaking guide with good knowledge of Nepal’s culture, history, and religion. If you need a guide in a different language (French, German, Spanish, Chinese, etc.), we can arrange that upon request with prior notice.

7. What kind of lunch will be available?

Lunch is not included in the package, but your guide will recommend good, clean restaurants with Nepali or international food options during the tour. You’ll have the chance to taste authentic Nepali cuisine if you wish—or choose something familiar if you prefer.

8. What should I wear during the tour?

It’s best to wear comfortable clothes and walking shoes. Since you’ll be visiting sacred temples and religious sites, modest clothing is appreciated—covering your shoulders and knees is respectful. Carry a scarf or shawl, especially for women, which can be useful at temple entrances.

9. What time does the tour start and end?

The tour usually begins at 9:00 AM and finishes around 5:00 PM. However, the timing can be flexible depending on your convenience. If you have evening plans or a flight to catch, we can adjust the schedule to suit your needs.

10. What if it rains or the weather is bad?

The tour runs year-round, even during light rain. Please bring an umbrella or raincoat if visiting in the monsoon season (June–August). Our vehicles are fully covered and the guide will help you manage any weather issues with flexible walking options.

11. Can I join the tour from the airport or end at the airport?

Yes, we can arrange airport pick-up or drop-off if you are arriving or flying out the same day. Just inform us of your flight timing in advance, and we’ll schedule the tour accordingly.

12. Is tipping expected in Nepal?

Tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated for good service. A small tip for your guide and driver is a kind way to say thank you. Many travelers tip around $5–$10 for the guide and $3–$5 for the driver per person for the full-day tour.

13. Is there Wi-Fi or mobile signal during the tour?

Most cafes and restaurants in the city offer free Wi-Fi. Mobile signal is strong in Kathmandu, so you can stay connected during the tour. If you have a local SIM card, you'll have internet access throughout the day.

14. Can I take photos during the tour?

Yes, photography is allowed at most places. You’ll get many chances to take amazing pictures of temples, rituals, architecture, and daily life. However, please ask your guide or local people before taking close-up photos, especially of Sadhus (holy men) or cremation rituals at Pashupatinath.

15. How can I book the Kathmandu Day Tour?

You can book the tour directly by contacting Peace Nepal Treks. We offer easy booking via email or phone. A small advance payment may be required to confirm your booking, and we’ll send you all the necessary details to make your trip smooth and enjoyable.