Krishna temple
Kalbhairav temple

Kathmandu Valley Tour – 5 Days

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Trip at a Glance
Duration5 Days
Trip GradeEasy
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude2,195 meters
Group Size1-20
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
ActivitiesKathmandu Tour
Best TimeAll Seasons

Kathmandu Valley Tour 5 Days — Quick Trip Summary

The Kathmandu Valley Tour 5 Days is a culture-focused trip covering all seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the valley — Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, Pashupatinath, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square and Changunarayan Temple — combined with an overnight stay at Nagarkot for Himalayan sunrise views, including Mount Everest on clear days.

  • Duration: 5 days / 4 nights
  • Maximum altitude: 2,195 m (Nagarkot)
  • Trip grade: Easy (suitable for ages 6 to 75)
  • Starts & ends: Kathmandu
  • Group size: 1 – 20 travellers
  • Best season: October to April
  • Price: From US$470 per person (group of 20) — US$650 (solo)
  • Included: Private vehicle, licensed cultural guide, hotel on B&B, airport transfers, monument entry assistance, farewell Nepali dinner

This package is built for first-time visitors to Nepal, families with children, senior travellers and couples who want a relaxed cultural introduction to the country without trekking.

Overview of Kathmandu Day Tour 

Kathmandu Day Tour is a perfect day excursion to enjoy the beauty of Nepal's finest cultural and Historical landmarks, reflecting the architectural prowess of the ancient Kingdom of Nepal. The Valley of Kathmandu boasts seven UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Sites in total, and on the sightseeing tour organized by View Nepal Treks and Expedition, you will be visiting all seven of them. You will be accompanied by a Multilingual Cultural Guide for your sightseeing tour, who will share the information surrounding the landmarks and historical sites.

The Kathmandu Day tour begins at around 8 AM as the sightseeing vehicle picks you up from your hotel and transports you to Soyambhunath Stupa situated on top of the Gosringa (Semgu) Hill, you can witness stellar views of the Kathmandu Valley and if the weather is clear then the views of the Langtang, Rolwaling Himalayan Range can be seen behind the lush green hills on the outskirts. After exploring the holy stupa, you will be transferred to Basantapur/ Kathmandu Durbar Square complex, which is one of the busiest hubs of the capital, as one of the major markets in Kathmandu is situated at the northern part of the Durbar Square. You can also purchase souvenirs from the local vendors, as there is a wide range to select from at affordable prices.  Next destination will be to Boudhanath Stupa, exploring the tranquil Stupa’s vicinity, even though located within one of the busiest parts of the Capital. You will be transferred from Boudhanath Stupa to Pashupatinath Temple, one of the major pilgrimage sites for Hindu followers, dedicated to Lord Shiva. After the completion of the Kathmandu Day Tour, you will be dropped back at your hotel, marking the end of the day tour. 

After the completion of the day 1 Kathmandu Day Tour, the next day you will explore Patan Durbar Square and Bhaktapur Durbar Square, which are also known to be a living museum and rich in art, architecture, and historical monuments from the 2nd century. After that, you will be driven to Nagarkot hills for relaxation and a mountain view. If the weather is favourable, you can see Everest and the Himalayan range.

Highlights of the Kathmandu Day Tour

  • Exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Sites within the Kathmandu Valley
  • Plenty of time to explore each of the iconic landmarks, accompanied by a Cultural Guide.
  • Have an inside view of the Nepalese lifestyle. 
  • Have a better understanding of the landmarks, including their history, myths, architectural styles, and many more.
  • Exquisite view of the Kathmandu Valley from the Swayambhunath Hill.
  • Sunrise view from Nagarkot hills and Alluring mountain views, including the world's highest mountain, Mount Everest.
  • Opportunity to try cultural meals from the Nepalese Cuisine.     
  • Purchase local souvenirs from the market vendors.

About Sightseeing Destinations

Swayambhunath Stupa 

Swayambhunath Stupa, also called the Monkey Temple, is one of the most revered and sacred sites of the country, located on top of the Gosringa Hill. The Swayambhunath Temple's origin can be traced as far as the 5th century AD. However, according to various folklores, the origin of the Swayambhunath dates back even further, as it is believed that the Stupa was formed when a lotus flower bloomed in the middle of the Lake which covered the entire valley of Kathmandu. The Bodhisattva Manjuri is said to be responsible for draining the water from the valley, which he did by cutting down the Chobar hill using his flame sword, Khadga. The site has been serving as one of the pivotal points for Buddhist pilgrimage for centuries, and also for the Hindu community. The name Swayambhunath means “self-manifested” or “self-born”. The stupa is constructed on a dome-shaped structure, abode with a golden spire on top of it. The wisdom eyes of the Buddha are facing the four cardinal directions, symbolizing his omnipresent awareness. The stupa is surrounded by various shrines, temples, and statues which are dedicated to some Hindu deities, including lord Shiva, the God of destruction. The Swayambhunath Stupa is also a beautiful viewpoint overlooking the Kathmandu Valley and the Himalayas in the background. The iconic landmark has been serving as a center of spiritual practice and Nepalese heritage, attracting both pilgrims and tourists. The Stupa has gone through various renovation projects, among which took place during “the golden age of art and culture”, the Malla period. The stupa can be accessed by visitors after climbing a flight of 365 stairs.

soyambhu nath. stupa
Soyambhunath Stupa

Banasantapur Durbar Square

Basantapur Durbar Square has been the center of the major political events of the country for centuries. The Durbar Square had been serving as the Royal residence till the late 19th century, after which the royals shifted to the Narayanhiti Royal Palace. The iconic landmark's origin dates back to the Licchavi period, who ruled from the 4th century to the 9th century AD, but was developed massively under the Malla Kings. The site has served for major political events, including royal coronations, festivals, celebrations, as well as massacres, which shifted the nation’s trajectory massively. The complex holds various monuments built during the ruling of different dynasties, each showcasing unique architectural characteristics. The iconic temples of the site include Hanuman Dhoka Royal Palace,  Kumari Ghar (home of the living Goddess), Taleju Temple, and many more.  The architectural wonderland was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979 AD and has been one of the must-visit places for local and international tourists. The restoration process of the damaged monuments is at its final stages, as the landmarks were severely damaged during the earthquake of 2015 AD. 

kalbhairav Temple
Basantapur Durbar Square (Kal Bhairav)

Pashupatinath Temple

The Pashupatinath Temple is constructed on the banks of the holy Bagmati River in Kathmandu, is one of the most significant and revered sites for the Hindu community all around the world. The temple is dedicated to the lord of Destruction, Lord Shiva in his Pashupati form, meaning the “lord of beasts,” and according to the factual data, the temple dates back to around the 5th century AD but has undergone multiple expansions and renovation processes. The major renovation process took place during the ruling of King Ananta Malla, who also added a roof to the temple. The temple attracts devotees all around the world daily, but during the annual festival of Janai Purnima and Maha Shiva Ratri, the temple is crowded as thousands of devotees stay in line waiting for their turn from as early as 2 AM.  The sprawling temple complex also includes various shrines and statues. The bank of the Bagmati River also serves as one of the biggest cremation sites of the Hindu community in Nepal, as, according to the faith of believers, the devotees who are cremated there find their path to the next life easily.  The temple was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979 AD. The temple also symbolizes Nepal’s deep-rooted connection with Hinduism. 

Note: The followers of Hinduism are only permitted to enter the main vicinity of the Pashupatinath Temple, and non-Hindus are not permitted within the vicinity but can explore other parts of the grand temple complex freely.  

Boudhanath Stupa

Boudhanath Stupa is one of the most revered religious sites for Buddhism all around the world, located in the North-East part of the Kathmandu valley. The Stupa is believed to have been constructed during the 5th century AD and brought to its current form/ structure during the 14th century during the Malla Period. The Stupa, according to Buddhist folklore, is constructed over the remains of a Buddhist Monk, which later became a symbol for peace and enlightenment. The Stupa symbolizes the universe through its massive mandala design. The Stupa stands tall at around 36 M in a dome shape surrounded by 108 small stupas and statues, making it one of the biggest stupas of Nepal. At the top of the dome, the all-seeing eyes of Buddha, representing wisdom, and a third eye representing spiritual insight, are painted on the four faces of the Stupa. The pilgrimage visitors are often seen walking around the Stupa in a clockwise direction, chanting their mantras/ prayers and spinning the prayer wheels constructed around the dome of the Stupa. The Stupa has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979 AD. 

stupa
Bouddhanath Stupa

Patan Durbar Square

Patan Durbar Square is an architectural marvel built in the Newari architectural style, which served as the Royal residence of the Malla Dynasty from the early 14th century to the 19th century AD. Patan Durbar Square portrays the architectural prowess of the ancient Kingdom and is listed among the UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Sites. Patan Durbar Square is considered the oldest durbar square among the three durbar squares: Kathmandu Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, and Patan Durbar Square. The ancient city of Patan was previously called “Yala” by its first inhabitants, the Newari. The city later on got the name Lalitpur, which translates to “a beautiful place”.  The surrounding of the Patan Durbar Square also boasts a number of intricate temple complexes, including the Golden Temple (the oldest temple of Patan, believed to have been constructed during the 12th century AD), Baglamukhi Temple, and many more. The Patan Museum is also located within the vicinity of Patan Durbar Square, filled with intricate monuments including wood carvings, bronze idols, stone carvings, and many more.  

Krishna Temple
Patan Durbar Square

Bhaktapur Durbar Square 

Bhaktapur Durbar Square is an old royal plaza in Bhaktapur city, Nepal. Built between the 12ᵗʰ–18ᵗʰ centuries by the Malla kings, it was their palace and main gathering place during the jatras and festivals. Its main highlights are amazing Newari art, beautiful carved wood, stone, and brick buildings. The 55‑Window Palace and Golden Gate lead to the Taleju Temple. The five‑story Nyatapola Temple, dedicated to the goddess Siddhi Laxmi, is one of the tallest pagodas in Nepal. You can also see Vatsala Temple, Bhairavnath, and many shrines. Though damaged in the 1934 and 2015 earthquakes, it has been restored and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today, the square is alive with festivals, pottery-makers, woodcarvers, and prayers, a place where history meets daily life.

Changunarayan Temple

Changunarayan Temple, located on a hill about 12 km east of Kathmandu in Bhaktapur, is Nepal’s oldest Hindu temple, built during the Licchavi period (4ᵗʰ–5ᵗʰ century) and dedicated to Lord Vishnu.. The two‑tiered pagoda-style temple features a gilded copper roof, intricate wood, metal, and stone carvings of deities, mythical creatures, and Vishnu’s avatara, as you walk in, you'll see life‑sized lions, elephants, and griffins guarding four entrances, and artistic reliefs like Garuda and a legendary stone inscription from 464 AD the oldest in Nepal left by King Mānadeva. This UNESCO World Heritage site invites you into a peaceful, spiritual world. Festivals like Haribodhini Ekadashi bring color and devotion, making your visit a blend of ancient history and living tradition.

Nagarkot Hill

Nagarkot Hill is the perfect final destination to relax and unwind at the end of your Kathmandu Valley tour. Located just 32 km from Kathmandu at an altitude of 2,195 meters, it offers peace, fresh mountain air, and breathtaking views of the Himalayas. It’s famous for both sunrise and sunset—on clear days, you can even catch a glimpse of Mount Everest glowing in golden light. Surrounded by pine forests and quiet villages, Nagarkot is an ideal place to escape the city noise and recharge. You can enjoy scenic hikes, sip tea on a peaceful terrace, or simply sit back and watch the changing colors of the sky. After days of exploring temples and cities, this hilltop offers the perfect place to rest, reflect, and enjoy nature’s beauty. Whether you’re with friends, a partner, or traveling solo, Nagarkot will give your journey a peaceful and memorable ending.

What You Can See From Nagarkot On a Clear Morning

Nagarkot's viewing terrace at 2,195 m offers one of the widest visible Himalayan panoramas from any point near Kathmandu. On a clear winter morning between November and February, you can identify the following peaks from left to right:

  • Annapurna II – 7,937 m
  • Manaslu – 8,163 m (world's 8th highest)
  • Ganesh Himal – 7,422 m
  • Langtang Lirung – 7,234 m
  • Dorje Lakpa – 6,966 m
  • Gauri Shankar – 7,134 m
  • Numbur – 6,958 m
  • Mount Everest – 8,848 m (visible as a small triangular peak on the far eastern horizon)

Everest is not the biggest peak in the view because it is roughly 160 km away. Manaslu and Langtang dominate visually. If seeing Everest is your priority, plan your Nagarkot stay between mid-November and early March, when haze is lowest.

Nepal Visa Cost (Paid Separately on Arrival)

Most travellers receive their Nepal tourist visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport. For a 5-day Kathmandu Valley tour, the 15-day visa is enough.

  • 15 days – US$30
  • 30 days – US$50
  • 90 days – US$125

Free for: Indian nationals, SAARC citizens (once per calendar year), Chinese nationals, and children under 10 travelling with a parent.

Bring exact USD cash. Nepali rupees and Indian rupees are usually not accepted at the visa counter. ATMs at the airport sometimes have queues, so carry small denominations.

You will also need two passport-size photos and a passport with at least six months validity and two blank pages. You can pre-register online at the Nepal Immigration portal up to 15 days before arrival to skip one queue at the airport.

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Itinerary
Trip PlanExpand all

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you’ll be greeted by our guide and transferred to your hotel. Take time to relax, explore the local streets, or enjoy a welcome dinner in Thamel, Kathmandu's lively tourist hub.

Max Altitude: 1,400 m / 4,593 ft Accommodation: HotelDuration: 45 MinutesDistance: Approx. 6 km from airport

A full day of exploring the cultural gems of the capital. You’ll visit:

  • Soyambhunath (Monkey Temple): a hilltop stupa with panoramic city views.
  • Basantapur Durbar Square: a historic royal palace area with temples and traditional architecture.
  • Pashupatinath Temple: Nepal’s most sacred Hindu temple, on the banks of the Bagmati River.
  • Bouddhanath Stupa: one of the world’s largest Buddhist stupas, full of spiritual energy.

 

Max Altitude: 1,400 m / 4,593 ft Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: HotelDuration: Full day (6–7 hours)Distance: 25–30 km round trip

Today you’ll explore:

  • Patan Durbar Square: a beautifully preserved old royal square full of intricate Newari art.
  • Bhaktapur Durbar Square: known for its timeless charm, pottery, and architecture.
  • Then, drive to Nagarkot for an overnight stay and mountain views.
Max Altitude: 2,175 m / 7,136 ft Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: HotelDuration: Full day tour (6–7 hours)Distance: Approx. 45 km total

Wake up early to witness the stunning sunrise over the Himalayas from Nagarkot. After breakfast, visit Changunarayan Temple, the oldest Hindu temple in Nepal, before heading back to Kathmandu.

Max Altitude: 1,400 m / 4,593 ft Meals: fairwell DinnerAccommodation: HotelDuration: 5–6 hoursDistance: Approx. 35–40 km total

After breakfast, enjoy a calm morning and, if time permits, do some last-minute shopping or take a short walk nearby. Soon, you’ll be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight back home. As your Kathmandu Valley tour comes to an end, take with you the unforgettable memories of cultural wonders, scenic beauty, and warm hospitality.

Duration: 45 minutesDistance: Approx. 6 km to airport
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Cost Details
Includes
  • Private airport transfers upon arrival and departure.
  • Hotel accommodation on a Bed & breakfast basis during the tour.
  • Entry fees to monuments and heritage sites.
  • Licensed and experienced local tour guide for Kathmandu sightseeing.
  • All ground transportation and city tours in a private air-conditioned car/coach.
  • Farewell dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant.
  • Basic First Aid Kit for safety and emergencies.
Excludes
  • Nepal visa fee.
  • Travel and medical insurance.
  • International airfare and airport departure taxes.
  • Premium or alcoholic beverages.
  • Personal expenses like laundry, phone calls, tips, and souvenirs.
Essential Information

Historical Development of the Kathmandu Valley 

According to the Swayambhu Purana, the Kathmandu valley used to be a big lake “Nagdaha,” translating to “Lake of Snakes,” and its water was drained after Bodhisattva Manjushree cut down the hill of Chobar, draining the water within the valley using his flame sword Khadga. After most of the water from the Lake drained, the lands of the valley began emerging, which were fertile and perfect for agriculture, resulting in the movement of the Gopals (Cow Herders), who were the first inhabitants of the valley. The Gopal Dynasty came to an end as the Kirat kings came into power, marking the beginning of the Kirat Dynasty as early as the 3rd century BC. The number of residents of the valley began growing later on during the 6th century under the Kirat rules, and their famous Kirat King Yalamber is also mentioned in the epic of Mahabharat. During the rule of the Lichhavis, the first known temple of the Kathmandu valley, the Changunarayan Temple, was constructed, which is listed among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 

The Kirat dynasty, which ruled for around 700 years, came to an end at the hands of King Manadeva, marking the beginning of the Licchavi dynasty. During the Licchavi period, the valley was introduced to art and religion, and the famous Licchavi King, Amshuverma, who married his daughter Bhirkuti to the Tibetan king Tsong Tsen Gompa, led to the exponential growth of the valley's economy as trade routes with Tibet were established. Later on, the Licchavi dynasty was overthrown by the Malla kings, which began the “golden age for art, culture, and architecture in Nepal“. During the Malla dynasty, there were highly skilled artisans whose contribution led to the creation of magnificent temples, buildings, and courtyards which shaped the history of Nepal during the Malla Period the iconic landmarks including Patan Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square and Kathmandu Durbar Square were also constructed during the golden age of Malla Kingdom. Patan Durbar Square used to serve as the royal abode for the Malla kings for centuries. The Kathmandu valley used to be a single kingdom until the death of King Yaksha Malla, after which the kingdom was divided into three separate states: Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Lalitpur/Patan. After 550 years of rule, the Malla dynasty was overthrown by King Prithivi Narayan Shah during the unification campaign of Nepal.

 

Essential Required

  • You will be required to carry your passport/ ID Card for the journey to obtain the entry pass for the Landmarks.
  • As exploring the UNESCO World Heritage site will be on foot,  we suggest wearing comfortable footwear and dressing modestly as the sightseeing tour includes sacred and religious sites.
  • A Sun Hat/ Cap and sunscreen are necessary for the Kathmandu Day Tour. 

What to Pack for the Kathmandu Valley Tour

You don't need trekking gear for this trip. Daypack contents matter more than suitcase contents.

Clothing

  • Light cotton/linen shirts for daytime sightseeing
  • One warm jacket or fleece (Nagarkot drops to 5–10°C at night even in spring)
  • Closed walking shoes — temple stairs are uneven
  • A scarf or shawl for women (useful at Pashupatinath)
  • Long trousers or skirt covering knees for temple visits

Daypack essentials

  • Refillable water bottle (1 litre minimum)
  • Sun hat and SPF 30+ sunscreen
  • Sunglasses
  • A small notebook or downloaded map
  • Power bank — outlets are limited at most heritage sites
  • A few small NPR notes (Rs. 50, 100) for offerings, tips and street snacks

Documents

  • Passport with Nepal visa
  • 2 passport photos (extra)
  • Travel insurance copy
  • Hotel and tour confirmation printout
  • Emergency contact list

Skip these — expensive jewellery, drone (requires separate permit), shorts above the knee (you'll be asked to cover up at temples).

Entrance Fees for Kathmandu 

You will need an Entry Pass to explore each of the landmarks, which can be obtained easily from the entrance of the Durbar Square. You will be assisted by our Cultural Guide to obtain the Pass. The price of the entry permit is different for foreign citizens and citizens of SAARC countries, which will be listed at the Entry Booth of the Sites. 

Entry Fees for Kathmandu UNESCO Sites (2026 Updated)

Entry permits are paid separately at each monument and are not included in the tour price. Your guide will help you buy tickets at the booth. Carry your passport — SAARC nationals get reduced rates with ID.

Heritage Site Foreigners (NPR) SAARC Nationals (NPR) Indian Citizens
Kathmandu Durbar Square 1,000 150 Free at most counters
Patan Durbar Square 1,000 250 Reduced
Bhaktapur Durbar Square 1,800 500 Free
Pashupatinath Temple 1,000 1,000 Free
Boudhanath Stupa 400 100 Free
Swayambhunath Stupa 200 50 Free
Changunarayan Temple 300 100 Free

Total approximate entry cost for non-SAARC foreigners: NPR 5,700 (roughly USD 43). Ticket prices are reviewed every fiscal year by the Department of Archaeology, so small variations are normal.

Important: Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur Durbar Square tickets are valid for multiple entries during your visa period if you ask for the extended pass at purchase. Keep the ticket inside your passport.

Pickup and Drop Facility

The participants of the trip will be picked up from their Hotel and will be transferred around the landmarks in a vehicle and will be dropped back at their Hotel after the completion of the Kathmandu Day Tour. If the participants of the tour are staying outside the Kathmandu Valley, they are requested to arrive at the Head office of the View Nepal Treks and Expeditions at Narsingh Chowk, Thamel, around 20 minutes before the beginning of the tour and will be dropped back to the Head office after the completion of the tour. 

Distances and Travel Times During the Tour

Knowing the actual drive times helps you plan your day. Kathmandu traffic is unpredictable between 8 AM and 11 AM and again from 4 PM to 7 PM, so we schedule departures to work around it.

Route Distance Drive Time (off-peak) Drive Time (peak)
Airport → Thamel hotel 6 km 25 min 50 min
Thamel → Swayambhunath 3 km 15 min 35 min
Swayambhunath → Kathmandu Durbar Square 2 km 10 min 25 min
Kathmandu Durbar Square → Boudhanath 7 km 25 min 50 min
Boudhanath → Pashupatinath 2 km 10 min 20 min
Thamel → Patan Durbar Square 6 km 25 min 45 min
Patan → Bhaktapur 17 km 45 min 75 min
Bhaktapur → Nagarkot 18 km 45 min 60 min
Nagarkot → Changunarayan 11 km 30 min 35 min
Changunarayan → Kathmandu 22 km 60 min 90 min

We use private SUVs for groups of 1 to 4 and a Toyota Hiace or Coaster for larger groups. All vehicles are air-conditioned and carry a first aid kit, water and a charging point.

Best Time For Kathmandu Day Tour

Weather Condition

Participating in the Kathmandu Day Tour during the mid-October to mid-spring season, which spans from the months of October to April, is the best time to participate, as the weather is pleasant with clean blue skies. You can participate in the remaining season; however, during that time, rain can be expected, making it difficult to explore the destination, and the gloomy clouds covering the skies make the tour less appealing. 

During Festivals

Traveling during the festival time in Nepal can become the best time, as the celebrated festivals in Nepal are vibrant and eventful, from the festival of colors (Holi) to various Jatras (Nepalese Carnivals). 

Major festivals are celebrated in the landmarks

  • Basantapur Durbar Square: Holi (March), Indra Jatra (August to September), Gai Jatra (July/ August).
  • Patan Durbar Square:  Rato Machindranath (Around May lasting around 1 month), Bhoto Jatra (July/August)
  • Pashupatinath Temple: Shiva Ratri (February/ March), Janai Purnima (August)
  • Boudhanath Stupa: Buddha Jayanti (May)
  • Swayambhunath Stupa: Gunla (usually from July to September), Buddha Jayanti (May)

Avoiding Crowds: If you want to avoid crowds, then traveling during the “off /low season” is better, which stretches between December to February and June to August. The cities of Nepal are less crowded with tourists during this time, but you can expect anything, like unpredictable weather and rainfall. If traveling during the remaining months, then the weather conditions will be much more favorable, but the landmarks will be much crowded.   

Cultural Sensitivity During Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley

While exploring the Kathmandu Valley’s sacred sites and historic landmarks, it’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions:

  • Dress Modestly: Wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees, especially in temples and religious areas.
  • Remove Shoes: Always take off your shoes before entering temples or sacred courtyards.
  • No Public Displays of Affection: Holding hands is okay, but avoid hugging or kissing in public.
  • Photography: Always ask for permission before taking photos, especially of people, monks, or inside temples.
  • Don’t Touch Sacred Objects: Refrain from touching idols, prayer wheels, or offerings unless you’re sure it’s allowed.
  • Walk Clockwise: When walking around stupas or shrines, move in a clockwise direction as a sign of respect.
  • Quiet and Calm:  Keep your voice low in temples and religious sites; they are places for worship and reflection.

Money, SIM Card and Connectivity in Kathmandu

Travellers consistently ask us these practical questions. Here's what actually works on the ground in 2026.

Currency. The Nepali Rupee (NPR) is the only legal currency. As of early 2026, 1 USD ≈ 133 NPR. Exchange counters in Thamel often beat airport rates by 1–2 percent. Carry small denominations — most local shops don't break NPR 1,000 notes easily.

ATMs. Global Bank, NIC Asia and Standard Chartered ATMs accept international Visa and Mastercard. The per-transaction withdrawal limit is NPR 35,000 with a fee of NPR 500. We recommend withdrawing larger amounts less often.

Credit cards. Accepted in mid-range hotels, branded restaurants and larger souvenir shops. Most temple-area vendors, taxis and small eateries are cash-only. Expect a 3.5 percent surcharge on card payments at smaller businesses.

SIM card. Buy a Ncell or Nepal Telecom tourist SIM at the airport arrivals hall. NPR 800–1,200 gets you 20 GB valid for 28 days. Bring a passport copy and one photo. Coverage in Nagarkot and Bhaktapur is good; Pashupatinath inner zones are patchy.

Wi-Fi. Free in almost every hotel, café and many heritage-site restaurants. Speeds in Thamel average 25–40 Mbps. Nagarkot resorts run on slower satellite or microwave links.

Food and Drinking Water During the Tour

Breakfast is included at your hotel each day. Lunch and most dinners are on your own — this lets you choose what your stomach is comfortable with. Our guides know where local people actually eat, not just where tourists are taken.

Try these during the tour

  • Newari thali in Bhaktapur — bara, chatamari, choila and aila
  • Dal bhat tarkari — the daily Nepali plate with unlimited refills
  • Momos — steamed or fried dumplings, found everywhere
  • Juju Dhau — the "king of curd" from Bhaktapur, served in a clay bowl
  • Sel roti — sweet ring-shaped rice bread, especially fresh in the mornings

Vegetarian and vegan travellers. Easy. Most Nepali home-style food is plant-based by default. Tell your guide on day one and they will brief restaurants in advance.

Special diets. Gluten-free and Jain meals are possible with one day's notice. Halal restaurants are clustered around Thamel and Jhamsikhel.

Drinking water. Do not drink tap water anywhere in Kathmandu Valley, including at hotels. Sealed bottled water (NPR 25–40) is sold at every shop. Many of our guests carry a SteriPEN or LifeStraw bottle to reduce plastic.

Street food caution. Tasty but choose wisely. Hot, freshly cooked items like momos straight from the steamer are safe. Avoid pre-cut fruit and ice in drinks during your first 48 hours.

Common Booking Concerns We Answer Daily

After 25 years of running Kathmandu Valley tours, these are the doubts that come up most often from real customers. We want you booking with clarity, not guesswork.

"What if the weather is bad on the Nagarkot morning?"

We monitor weather every evening. If sunrise visibility looks poor (less than 30 percent clear sky), the guide will offer you the option to swap the early wake-up for a slightly later breakfast view. Refunds are not issued for weather, but we will move you to a better-positioned terrace inside the resort at no cost.

"Can I shorten or extend the trip?"

Yes. The most common adjustments are a 4-day version (dropping Nagarkot overnight) or a 7-day version (adding Pokhara or Chitwan). Pricing is recalculated transparently — no hidden mark-ups.

"Are entry fees really not included?"

Correct. We keep entry fees separate because rates change yearly and SAARC travellers pay different amounts. Bundling them would mean charging European travellers extra to subsidise Indian travellers, which we don't do. You pay exactly what the government booth charges.

"What if I get sick during the tour?"

Our guides carry a basic first aid kit and the company has tie-ups with CIWEC Clinic and Norvic Hospital — both have international travel-insurance billing. Stomach issues are the most common problem; in most cases ORS and one day of rest solves it.

"Do I have to tip the guide and driver?"

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Customary amounts are USD 5–8 per day for the guide and USD 3–5 per day for the driver, given on the final day.

"How far in advance should I book?"

For October–November (peak season) book at least 6 weeks ahead — hotels in Bhaktapur and Nagarkot fill quickly. For other months, 2 weeks is usually enough. Last-minute bookings (within 7 days) are possible but hotel choice narrows.

FAQs

This tour typically covers the three ancient cities of Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur, each rich in art, culture, and history. It also includes a scenic stay in Nagarkot for sunrise views over the Himalayas and a visit to Changunarayan, one of Nepal’s oldest temples.

Key highlights include UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and the Durbar Squares. In addition, the sunrise view of the Himalayas from Nagarkot, traditional Newari architecture, and local cultural experiences make the tour special.

Yes, the tour is designed to be easy and comfortable, with short drives and light walking. It’s a great educational and cultural experience for children and enjoyable for parents and seniors alike.

The ideal times to visit are during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is clear and pleasant. These seasons also align with major festivals like Dashain, Tihar, and Holi, adding cultural value to your trip.

You’ll stay in comfortable tourist-standard hotels in Kathmandu and a cozy resort or hotel in Nagarkot. Most rooms offer private bathrooms, Wi-Fi, and breakfast. You can also upgrade to boutique or luxury hotels on request.

A private air-conditioned vehicle, such as a car, jeep, or tourist van, is typically used for airport transfers and sightseeing. This ensures comfort and flexibility throughout the journey.

Absolutely! Most travel agencies offer flexibility. You can add or skip places, extend your stay in Nagarkot, or include experiences like cooking classes, spiritual sessions, or local handicraft tours.

Yes, Kathmandu Valley is generally safe for tourists. Travel agencies are well-prepared to handle occasional strikes or protests if they occur, and they ensure your itinerary continues with minimal disruption.

Yes, many travelers extend their trip to include Pokhara, Chitwan National Park, or short treks in nearby hills. You can also add experiences like Everest mountain flights or spiritual yoga retreats with prior planning.

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