Kathmandu Private City and UNESCO World Heritage Tour
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience Kathmandu in comfort with a fully customizable private sightseeing ride, perfect for any schedule-from a quick 2-hour introduction, half day , a full day tour of all seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, to a serene evening ride. Together with your English-speaking Welcome Driver, explore the city’s culture, and royal history at your own pace. Visit iconic landmarks such as Swayambhunath, Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur Durbar Squares, Changu Narayan Temple, Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa, while enjoying panoramic views, local neighborhoods, and vibrant streets. Your driver shares insights, stories, and practical tips, making the experience like touring with a knowledgeable friend. Flexible itineraries allow for daytime highlights, hidden corners, or reflective evening visits. Pickup and drop-off from centrally located accommodations is included, ensuring a personalized, and comfortable door-to-door journey through Kathmandu’s history, and everyday life.
Available options
Half-Day Kathmandu City Tour
Duration: 4 hours<br/>Car, Minivan. Minibus<br/>4 - Hour city tour: Durbar Square
Swayambhunath Hill
Pashupatinath Area
Boudhanath Stupa
<br/>Pickup included
Kathmandu Express Tour-2 Hours
Duration: 2 hours<br/>Car, Minivan. Minibus<br/>Express City tour: Durbar Square
Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)
Thamel
Boudhanath Area<br/>Pickup included
Kathmandu Full-Day UNESCO Tour
Duration: 8 hours<br/>Car, Minivan. Minibus<br/>UNESCO Best Seller Experience<br/>Pickup included
Kathmandu by Night Tour
Duration: 3 hours<br/>Car, Minivan. Minibus<br/>Night views: Boudhanath Area
Pashupatinath Area
Durbar Square<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Water
WiFi on board
All taxes and handling charges
Fuel and Tolls
Professional English-speaking local driver/informal guide
Hotel or custom pickup and drop-off
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Detailed itinerary
1
Hilltop stupa with panoramic valley views
2
Stop 2
Royal palaces and historic temples. (Exterior Visits).
3
Artistic heritage and Newari craftsmanship.
4
Stop 4
Preserved medieval city and temples.
5
Stop 5
Nepal’s oldest Hindu temple. (Exterior Visit).
6
Stop 6
Sacred Hindu complex along the river. (Exterior Visit).
7
Stop 7
Iconic Buddhist stupa and spiritual center.
8
Stop 8
Lively streets, shops, and local atmosphere
What's not included
Meals and beverages
Tips and Gratuities
Licensed guides available to accompany you inside the attractions
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
For 1-3 people: A comfortable sedan will be assigned to your group.
For 4-7 people: A spacious minivan will be assigned to your group.
For 8-10 people: A private minibus will be assigned to your group.
Throughout your ride, our drivers serve as informal local guides—sharing stories, history, and local tips at every stop. Please note that drivers are not permitted to enter museums or archaeological areas, but they’ll ensure you make the most of your visit with suggestions and background information before you explore on your own.
Some stops on your itinerary may be closed on the date of travel due to public holidays, maintenance or special events. We recommend verifying opening hours on the attraction’s official website or contacting us before your tour. If a stop is unexpectedly closed, we will try to offer a suitable alternative.
Important notes
Please show this to your driver.
About Kathmandu
Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is a vibrant blend of ancient history, rich culture, and stunning Himalayan scenery. Known as the 'City of Temples,' it's home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the iconic Swayambhunath Stupa and Pashupatinath Temple. The city offers a unique mix of traditional Newari architecture, bustling markets, and modern urban life.
Top Attractions
Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)
One of the most iconic landmarks in Kathmandu, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a Buddhist stupa perched on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. It's also home to many monkeys, hence the nickname.
Religious/Historical
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Pashupatinath Temple
One of the most sacred Hindu temples in the world, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located on the banks of the Bagmati River, it's a major pilgrimage site with a lively atmosphere, especially during festivals.
Religious
2-3 hours
Free for Hindus, NPR 1000 (USD 8) for non-Hindus
Boudhanath Stupa
One of the largest stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Boudhanath is a major center for Tibetan Buddhism. The surrounding area is filled with monasteries, shops, and cafes, creating a vibrant cultural hub.
Religious/Historical
2-3 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Kathmandu Durbar Square
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic square is the heart of the old city and features ancient palaces, temples, and courtyards. It's a living museum showcasing the city's rich history and Newari architecture.
Historical/Architectural
1-2 hours
NPR 1000 (USD 8) for foreigners
Bhaktapur Durbar Square
Located in the ancient city of Bhaktapur, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a well-preserved example of Newari architecture. It features beautiful temples, palaces, and courtyards, offering a glimpse into Nepal's royal history.
Historical/Architectural
Half-day trip
NPR 1500 (USD 12) for foreigners
Must-Try Local Dishes
Dal Bhat
A staple meal consisting of lentil soup (dal), rice (bhat), and vegetable curry (tarkari). Often served with pickles, salad, and sometimes meat.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian (can be made vegan by omitting ghee)
Momo
Steamed or fried dumplings filled with meat (buffalo, chicken, or pork) or vegetables, served with a spicy tomato-based sauce.
Snack/Appetizer
Vegetarian options available, can be made vegan
Sel Roti
A sweet, ring-shaped fried bread made from rice flour, sugar, and water, often served during festivals and celebrations.
Snack/Dessert
Vegetarian (may contain eggs in some recipes)
Gundruk
A fermented leafy green vegetable, often cooked with spices and served as a side dish or added to soups and stews.
Side Dish
Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free
Popular Activities
Trekking
Mountain biking
Paragliding
Rafting
Yoga and meditation retreats
Spa treatments
Café hopping
Gardening
Best Time to Visit
October to November and March to April
These months offer pleasant weather, clear skies, and excellent visibility for trekking and sightseeing. The city is lively with festivals and cultural events.
20-30°C (68-86°F)
68-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Nepali
- Widely spoken: English, Hindi, Newari, Maithili, Bhojpuri
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas
Currency
Nepalese Rupee (NPR)
Time Zone
Nepal Standard Time (NPT, UTC+5:45)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Kathmandu is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime, scams, and pickpocketing can occur, especially in tourist areas and crowded markets. Be cautious of your surroundings, keep valuables secure, and avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Use reputable tour operators and trekking agencies
- • Insist on using the meter when taking taxis
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
Getting there
By air
- Tribhuvan International Airport • 5 km (3 miles) from city center
By bus
Galkopul, Kalanki
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport, but they can be crowded and slow. Microbuses are smaller and more frequent.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Pathao, InDriver
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Thamel
Boudha
Patan (Lalitpur)
Bhaktapur
Day trips
Nagarkot
32 km (20 miles) from Kathmandu • Half-day to full-day trip
A picturesque hill station known for its stunning views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest on clear days. Nagarkot is also famous for its sunrise and sunset views.
Dhulikhel
30 km (19 miles) from Kathmandu • Half-day to full-day trip
A charming Newari town offering beautiful views of the Himalayas and historic temples. Dhulikhel is less touristy than Nagarkot but equally scenic.
Changunarayan
18 km (11 miles) from Kathmandu • Half-day trip
A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Changunarayan is one of the oldest Hindu temples in the Kathmandu Valley and is known for its intricate stone and wood carvings.
Festivals
Dashain • September/October (dates vary each year)
Tihar • October/November (dates vary each year)
Indra Jatra • September (dates vary each year)
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic Nepali phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
- Hire a local guide or join a group tour for a more immersive and informative experience, especially when visiting temples and historical sites
- Carry small denominations of Nepalese Rupees for small purchases and tips, as change may be limited
- Be prepared for power outages and slow internet, especially during peak hours and in rural areas
- Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun, as the high altitude and intense sunlight can cause dehydration and sunburn
$16
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
