USD 110
90
Full-Day Sightseeing tour of Pashupatinath & Boudhanath Stupa
Embark on a spiritual journey through two of Kathmandu's most revered landmarks—Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa. This guided tour offers a blend of history, culture, and serenity, allowing you to experience the heart of Nepal’s Hindu and Buddhist traditions.
Trip at a Glance
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Country: Nepal
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Trip grade: Easy
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Destination: Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa, Kathmandu
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Activities: Cultural sightseeing and spiritual exploration
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Accommodation: Not included (day tour)
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Meals: Lunch included
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Transportation: Private vehicle
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Maximum altitude: 1,400 meters (Kathmandu Valley)
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Group size: 1 - 29 people
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Trip Start / End: Kathmandu (hotel pickup) - Kathmandu (hotel drop-off)
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Best Season: All year round, with spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offering the best weather.
Key Highlights:
- Visit Pashupatinath Temple, the holiest Hindu temple in Nepal
- Explore Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest and most sacred Buddhist stupas
- Experience the vibrant culture of Kathmandu
- Learn about the deep spiritual practices of Hinduism and Buddhism
- Witness traditional rituals and daily offerings at both sites
- Enjoy breathtaking views and serene surroundings
Benefits with Best Heritage Tour
- Experienced and professional tour guides enhance your understanding of each site.
- Travel in comfort with a private vehicle, ensuring a personalized experience.
- Tailored itineraries cater to your interests for a meaningful journey.
- Smooth and efficient transfers eliminate the stress of public transportation.
- Prioritized safety with reliable transportation and careful planning.
- Convenient booking and reservation process
- Multiple communication channels (Email, WhatsApp, Facebook, WeChat, Viber, Skype, Zoom)
- All logistical arrangements, including permits and transportation, are handled.
- 24/7 phone support at +977-9851149197/+9779810043046
- Simple payment system
- Free storage for excess luggage at Best Heritage Tour store during the trek
Comprehensive Overview
Kathmandu Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, presents a harmonious fusion of Hindu and Buddhist traditions that have profoundly influenced Nepal’s cultural and spiritual identity. This one-day tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the heart of Nepal’s ancient religious practices, awe-inspiring architecture, and rich cultural history. The journey takes you to two of the most iconic spiritual landmarks in Nepal, providing an immersive experience in both Hindu and Buddhist cultures.
Designed for travelers seeking a comprehensive cultural experience, this tour begins with a visit to Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu pilgrimage sites in the world. You will then proceed to Boudhanath Stupa, a vibrant center of Tibetan Buddhism. This day-long journey promises to deepen your understanding of Nepal’s spiritual heritage, creating an unforgettable and insightful adventure.
Pashupatinath Temple: A Sacred Hindu Pilgrimage Site
Your journey begins with a visit to Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest sites for Hindus and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This sacred temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is located on the banks of the Bagmati River, a key river in Hindu religious beliefs. The temple complex features a stunning pagoda-style architecture with intricately carved wooden rafters, copper roofs, and golden statues, representing some of the finest examples of Nepalese craftsmanship. The temple itself is a revered pilgrimage destination for Hindus from across the world, especially during the Maha Shivaratri festival when thousands of devotees gather to pay homage to Lord Shiva.
As you explore the temple, you will witness various sacred rituals being performed, such as the traditional offerings of flowers, incense, and oil lamps. The most striking and poignant aspect of the temple is the cremation ghats along the river, where cremations take place in accordance with Hindu customs. For Hindus, the cremation process is considered an important spiritual rite, as it is believed to purify the soul and help in attaining moksha (liberation). The sight of fire burning on the riverbanks, accompanied by chants and prayers, offers a deeply spiritual atmosphere, which is central to the temple’s significance.
The temple also houses various shrines dedicated to different manifestations of Lord Shiva, including the iconic golden Nandi (the bull) statue at the entrance. The atmosphere in and around the temple exudes a profound sense of spirituality, offering visitors a unique insight into Hindu practices, rituals, and philosophies. The powerful energy of this sacred site will leave you with a deeper understanding of Hinduism and its cultural importance in Nepal.
Boudhanath Stupa: A Center of Tibetan Buddhism
After Pashupatinath Temple, you will continue your journey to Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest and most significant Buddhist stupas in the world. Situated in the heart of Kathmandu, Boudhanath is a vital center for Tibetan Buddhism and a key pilgrimage destination for Buddhists from Nepal, Tibet, and other parts of the world. This ancient stupa, built over 2,500 years ago, features a massive mandala design with a central dome representing the universe, and its whitewashed structure rises dramatically above the surrounding area.
What makes Boudhanath Stupa particularly unique is its symbolic representation of the path to enlightenment. Surrounding the stupa are 108 prayer wheels, each inscribed with mantras that, when spun, are believed to bring good karma and purify the mind. Pilgrims and visitors walk clockwise around the stupa, spinning the prayer wheels and reciting mantras, in a form of meditation and prayer.
The area surrounding Boudhanath Stupa is home to several monasteries and smaller stupas, each adding to the vibrant and spiritual atmosphere. You will likely encounter monks in traditional red robes, silently engaged in prayer and meditation, which provides an authentic glimpse into Tibetan Buddhist practices. The hum of chanting, the sound of prayer bells, and the fluttering of colorful prayer flags all contribute to the tranquil and meditative environment.
Boudhanath is not only a spiritual hub but also a place of cultural significance. The surrounding area is dotted with Tibetan shops, offering everything from prayer beads and incense to colorful thangkas (Buddhist paintings) and traditional Tibetan handicrafts. The peaceful surroundings, combined with the rich history and significance of the stupa, provide a deep immersion into Tibetan Buddhist culture, offering profound insights into the teachings of the Buddha and the practices followed by Buddhist monks.
Itinerary
Morning
8:00 AM - 8:30 AM: Pickup and Start of the Tour
Your guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel in Kathmandu and take you to Pashupatinath Temple.
8:30 AM - 12:00 PM: Visit Pashupatinath Temple
- Discover the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Nepal's most significant Hindu pilgrimage destinations.
- Spend time exploring the intricate architecture of the main temple, adorned with beautiful carvings and golden spires.
- Observe rituals and ceremonies performed by priests and devotees, including morning prayers and offerings.
- Witness the cremation rituals along the Bagmati River at the Arya Ghat, gaining insight into Hindu beliefs about life and death.
- Explore the surrounding areas, including smaller temples, shrines, and the nearby forested trails that exude spiritual tranquility.
- Take your time to immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance and interact with sadhus (Hindu ascetics) for a deeper understanding of their lifestyle.
12:00 PM - 12:30 PM: Transfer to Boudhanath Stupa
A short drive of approximately 15–20 minutes will take you to Boudhanath Stupa.
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM: Lunch Break
Savor a delicious Nepali or Tibetan lunch at a local restaurant overlooking Boudhanath Stupa, enjoying the peaceful views and cultural charm.
Midday
1:30 PM - 3:00 PM: Visit Boudhanath Stupa
- Marvel at Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest and most iconic Buddhist stupas in the world.
- Walk around the stupa (kora) in a clockwise direction, spinning prayer wheels and soaking in the serene ambiance.
- Visit nearby monasteries, such as Shechen Monastery, and learn about Tibetan Buddhist traditions and practices.
- Explore the vibrant market area, where you can find Tibetan handicrafts, prayer flags, and spiritual souvenirs.
Afternoon
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Further Exploration of Boudhanath
- Delve deeper into the spiritual and cultural essence of Boudhanath by visiting additional nearby monasteries, such as Kapan Monastery.
- Engage with monks to gain insight into Buddhist philosophy and meditation practices.
- Optionally, visit the Tibetan Refugee Camp to witness traditional crafts like thangka painting and carpet weaving.
4:00 PM - 4:30 PM: Return to Hotel
Your guide and driver will transfer you back to your hotel in Kathmandu, concluding a memorable day of cultural and spiritual exploration.
End of the Tour
This extended itinerary offers a deeper, more immersive experience at both Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa, with opportunities for reflection, cultural exploration, and spiritual enrichment.
What is included?
- Private vehicle for comfortable transportation throughout the tour
- A licensed English-speaking guide from the Best Heritage Tours
- Entrance fees to Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa
- Traditional Nepali or Tibetan lunch at a local restaurant
- Bottled water for hydration
- Visits to nearby monasteries and cultural sites
- Insightful explanations about Hindu and Buddhist rituals and practices
- Hotel pickup and drop-off within Kathmandu
- All administrative costs and government taxes
What is not included?
- Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, or drinks
- Tips for the guide and driver
- Optional visits to additional attractions not mentioned in the itinerary
- Photography fees (if applicable in some areas)
- Travel insurance
- Any expenses not mentioned in the Include section
Route Map
FAQ's
While Nepali is the primary language, most staff members in lodges speak English, and some may even speak other languages. Communication should not be an issue for international tourists.
It’s advisable to be up-to-date on routine vaccinations, including hepatitis A and typhoid. Talk to your doctor about the vaccinations you need for Nepal.
The majority of international flights arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, which is located in Kathmandu. From this location, travelers can connect to Lukla to commence their trekking journey.
You typically need a valid passport, a completed visa application form, and a passport-sized photo. Payment can be made in cash or via card at the airport.
Yes, tourist visas are eligible for extension at the Department of Immigration located in Kathmandu. Ensure you have a valid reason and required documents for the extension.
If you wish to extend your stay in Nepal beyond your visa’s initial duration, you can do so by applying at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu. Extensions are available for a maximum of 30 days, and it’s recommended to apply before your current visa expires. Best Heritage Tour can help you with the extension process if required during your Australian Camp Trek.
Equipment
For a smooth and enjoyable experience during your Sacred Sights of Kathmandu tour, it's essential to be well-prepared with the right equipment and gear. Whether you're visiting temples, walking around stupas, or exploring cultural sites, the following items will ensure you stay comfortable, protected, and ready to capture memories.
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Lightweight clothing (appropriate for the season)
- Sunscreen and hat for sun protection
- Camera or smartphone for photos
- Water bottle to stay hydrated
- Optional: A scarf or shawl (for visiting temples)
Trip Info
Best Season for the Pashupatinath Temple & Boudhanath Stupa One Day Tour
The most favorable times to visit Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa are during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons provide pleasant temperatures, clear skies, and ideal conditions for sightseeing. Spring brings blooming flowers and lush greenery, while autumn offers cooler air and uninterrupted views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes. These months also coincide with various festivals, enriching the cultural and spiritual experience of the tour.
It’s best to avoid the monsoon season (June to August) due to heavy rain, which can make the streets slippery and hinder outdoor activities. Winter (December to February) is another possibility, though it can be quite chilly, particularly in the early mornings and evenings, which could make walking around less comfortable.
Additional Information
- Pashupatinath Temple: This sacred Hindu temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Non-Hindus are not allowed inside the temple's inner sanctum, but the outer area and the surrounding ghats (steps) can be visited. Respect for the rituals and customs is essential when visiting.
- Boudhanath Stupa: This site is the center of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. The stupa is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists, with prayer flags often seen fluttering in the wind around the stupa. The area is home to several Tibetan monasteries and is known for its tranquil ambiance.
- Photography: Photography is allowed in most areas of both sites, but please be respectful, especially during religious ceremonies.
- Dress Code: While there is no strict dress code, modest attire is appreciated. Avoid revealing clothing, especially when visiting temples and religious sites.
- Cultural Etiquette: When visiting temples and stupas, always walk in a clockwise direction around the stupa and avoid touching religious artifacts unless invited to do so.
This tour offers an enriching day filled with cultural, spiritual, and historical experiences. Whether you're a cultural enthusiast or a spiritual seeker, this tour provides the perfect opportunity to explore the sacred heart of Kathmandu.