Kathmandu UNESCO World Heritage 3-Day Tour

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  • Duration 3 Days
  • Trip Grade
    Easy
  • Country Nepal
  • Activities Drive, Short Walks
  • Best Time Anytime

The Kathmandu Valley is a stunning outdoor exhibition of history, artistry, and spirituality. This carefully designed tour allows you to experience all Seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites that encapsulate Nepal’s identity in just three days. From the "Monkey Temple" that gazes over the valley to the historic courtyards of Bhaktapur, you will observe the perfect blend of Hinduism and Buddhism.

Conducted by the specialists at Walkers Expedition, this tour is more than just a journey between landmarks—it's a deep exploration of Newari artistry, time-honored ceremonies, and lively community markets that have persisted for generations

Kathmandu UNESCO World Heritage 3-Day Tour Itinerary

  • Morning: Pickup from Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to your hotel.
  • Afternoon : Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple): Climb the 365 steps to this ancient hilltop shrine. Enjoy a 360 degree panaromic view of the valley and witness the fusion of Hindu shrines and Buddhist stupas.
  • Evening : Boudhanath Stupa: Visit the largest spherical stupa in the world. Join the evening kora (ritual walk) with Tibetan pilgrims as the butter lamps are lit.
  • Overnight: Kathmandu Hotel.
  • Morning : Patan Durbar Square: Explore the "City of Fine Arts." Highlights include the Krishna Mandir, the Golden Temple, and the world-class Patan Museum.
  • Mid-Day : Kathmandu Durbar Square: Visit the heart of the old city. Catch a glimpse of the Kumari (Living Goddess) and see the intricate wood carvings of the Hanuman Dhoka Palace.
  • Late Afternoon : Pashupatinath Temple: Witness the profound evening Aarti (fire ceremony) on the banks of the holy Bagmati River. (Note: Only Hindus enter the inner temple, but the views from across the river are spectacular).
  • Overnight: Kathmandu Hotel.
  • Morning: Changu Narayan Temple: Drive to the oldest temple in the valley. Admire the 5th-century stone inscriptions and carvings dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
  • Mid-Day: Bhaktapur Durbar Square: Step back in time in this traffic-free medieval city. See the 55-Window Palace, Nyatapola Temple, and the famous Pottery Square.
  • Afternoon: Final souvenir shopping in Thamel or local market walk.
  • Departure: Transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

Cost Details

Includes

  • Transfers: Private AC vehicle for all airport pickups, drop-offs, and sightseeing.
  • Guide: Government-licensed, English-speaking cultural expert.
  • Accommodation: 2 Nights in a 3-star standard hotel in Kathmandu (Twin-sharing) with breakfast.
  • Taxes: All government taxes and service charges.

Excludes

  • Entrance Fees: For all 7 sites (paid locally in NPR).
  • Meals: Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
  • Visa: Nepal Entry Visa ($30 USD for 15 days).
  • Personal Expenses: Tipping, souvenirs, and beverages.

Kathmandu UNESCO World Heritage 3-Day Tour Route Map

Kathmandu UNESCO World Heritage 3-Day Tour

Dates and Availability

At Walkers Expedition, we believe that the end of your journey should be just as seamless and stress-free as the beginning. To ensure a smooth transition from the ancient streets of Kathmandu to your international departure, please take note of the following logistics:

1. Airport Transfer Service

Your package includes a private, air-conditioned transfer from your hotel to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA).

Timing: Your driver will meet you in the hotel lobby exactly 3.5 hours prior to your scheduled flight departure.

Traffic Factor: Kathmandu traffic can be unpredictable. By leaving 3.5 hours early, we account for potential delays, ensuring you have ample time for check-in and security.

2. The Farewell Ceremony

On your final evening or just before your airport drop-off, a representative from Walkers Expedition will meet with you for a brief farewell meeting.

Feedback: We value your experience. This is a great time to share your highlights or suggestions.

Souvenir: As a token of our appreciation for choosing us as your Himalayan thought partner, you will receive a traditional Nepali Khada (silk scarf) or a small cultural memento to carry the spirit of Nepal home with you.

3. Check-out Procedures

Standard Check-out: Most hotels in Kathmandu have a checkout time of 12:00 PM.

Late Check-out: If your flight is late in the evening, we can request a late check-out for you (subject to availability) or arrange for the hotel to securely store your luggage while you enjoy a final few hours of sightseeing or shopping in Thamel.

4. Final Document Check

Before leaving the hotel, please ensure you have the following:

Passport & Air Ticket: (Physical or digital copies).

Customs: Ensure any precious metal or antique-looking souvenirs have the necessary clearance if required (your guide will advise you on this during the shopping phase).

Currency: It is difficult to exchange Nepalese Rupees (NPR) outside of Nepal. We recommend spending your remaining cash on last-minute gifts or exchanging it back to your preferred currency at the airport exchange counters before security.

5. Extension Options

If you aren't ready to say goodbye to the Himalayas just yet, please let us know! We can easily extend your stay for:

A relaxing 2-day retreat in Nagarkot.

An adrenaline-pumping Trishuli River Rafting trip.

A flight-based Everest Mountain Flight for one last look at the giants.

Equipments

Since this is a city-based cultural tour, no specialized trekking gear is required. We recommend:

  • Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers (you will be walking on cobblestones).
  • Clothing: Modest attire (shoulders and knees covered for temples). A light jacket for early mornings/evenings.
  • Sun Protection: Sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen.
  • Tech: Camera/Smartphone, power bank, and a universal plug adapter (Type C/D/M).
  • Daypack: A small $15$–$20L$ bag for your water and essentials.

Essential Information

  • Cultural Etiquette: Always circumambulate stupas and temples in a clockwise direction. Take off shoes prior to entering any indoor sacred area.
  • Photography: Most locations permit photos, but look for "No Camera" signs within certain temple inner areas or museums.
  • Currency: Although major stores in Thamel accept cards, entrance fees for monuments must be paid in cash (NPR).
  • Health: Opt for bottled or filtered water. We suggest tasting the local Lassi at Indra Chowk—it's a favorite at Walkers Expedition