Day tours to Patan Bungamati and Khokana

Kathmandu , Nepal

Day tours to Patan Bungamati and Khokana

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About this experience

Patan is one of three medieval Malla principalities, In the medieval times, these three principalities maintained a very fierce rivalry and fought several wars against each other. They also competed with one another in the building of temples, palaces as well as the development of arts and architectures. Many of these creations still exist with all their charm and glory and have been listed by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. You will visit the temples, palaces, stupas and monasteries and traditional Newari villages, Bungamati and Khokana.

Highlights
• Visit the Durbar Square of Patan.
• Stroll around the traditional Newari village of Bungamati and Khokana.
• Discover the ingenuity of Newari cuisine.
• Visit local people and cultural villages, Hindu and Buddhist temples

Available options

Day tours to Patan Bungamati and Khokana

Pickup included

What's included

English speaking local guide

All Fees and Taxes

Bottled water

Transportation by one unit of private A/C Car ( Sedan car)

Delicious lunch will be provided at the Inn Patan for two people.

Hotel Pick up and drop-off

What you'll see

Patan, Bungamati and Khokana

The locals call Patan “Lalitpur” which means City of Beauty and also its original Sanskrit name while its Newari name is Yala. Patan is one of beautiful cities known for its amazing handicrafts and arts therefore rightly called the city of Arts! Patan is situated in Lalitpur district only about 5 km away from the capital city, Kathmandu. Long time ago, Patan used to be an independent kingdom of the Kathmandu Valley. Patan is one of beautiful cities known for its amazing handicrafts and arts therefore rightly called the city of Arts! Patan is definitely one amazing city and not to be missed. The tourists know Patan for its ancient Durbar Square, its surrounding busy streets, the Patan Kumari, along stone and metal workings, handicrafts and temples. Since Patan is a melting pot of two influential religions, Hinduism and Buddhism, this city is therefore dotted with full of religious art, temples, and monasteries all around. It has been listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site for its outstanding architecture.

Both Bungamati and Khokana are small and traditional Newari villages. The villages are situated about 10km away from Kathmandu in Lalitpur district. These villages are perfect if you want to get familiar with Newari tradition, people and their lifestyle. In spite of this ever growing modernization, Bungamati and khokana still remain old fashioned. People here are much unsophisticated, live in a simple house and lead a very simple life. People from these villages are occupied in agriculture.

Bungamati is also renowned for Rato Machhendranath temple resided by the famous divinity called Rato Machhendranath. Bungamati is supposed to be birthplace of Rato Machhendranath. The divinity is kept here at Bungamati for the period of six months and for another six months; the divinity is kept at Patan. There is another Rato Machhendranath temple in Patan also. The process of bringing back and forth is executed by a huge celebration. When the festival is held, during this time, the divinity is taken in hand-made chariot being pulled manually by the local volunteers. Bungamati is also renowned for elaborated carving designs in stones or in woods and therefore. Both males and females are actively involved in it and have been passed down from generations.

At khokana, the most renowned thing is the Karyabinayak temple dedicated to Hindu god Ganesha. This is considered to be a very scared. People from all over come here to worship and seek blessing prior to any auspicious events. Also Khokana is famous for picnics as there is a beautiful picnic spot located nearby. Another not to be missed out thing at khokana is mustard oil. This place is very famous for getting one of the best and pure mustard oil. Like Bungamati, Khokana too is renowned for elaborated carving designs in stones or in woods; consequently, here too are many craft workshops and showrooms around village.

What's not included

Accommodation

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions

Dress code is casual

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