USD 450
395
UNESCO World Heritage Sightseeing Tour in Kathmandu -5 Days
Trip at a Glance
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Country: Nepal
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Trip grade: Easy
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Destination: Nepal
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Activities: Educational Trips
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Accommodation: Hotel Stay
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Transportation: Private Car
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Group size: 2+
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Trip Start / End: Kathmandu - Kathmandu
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Best Season: All Seasons
Tour of Kathmandu Valley World Heritage Sites
Kathmandu Valley is the most developed and populated urban settlement in Nepal, with a history dating back to 300 B.C. The Newar people are primarily members of the Indo-Aryan and Tibeto-Burman ethnic groups and are the indigenous people. Due to their rich history, Kathmandu Valley is home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This tour will show you all the major attractions in and around Kathmandu Valley, including these UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Highlights
- Explore 7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Kathmandu Valley.
- Visit Dakshinkali Temple in Chobhar
- Watch the sunrise from Nagarkot and dawn over Annapurna ranges (8091m), Manaslu (8163m), Langtang (7246m), Gaurisankar Himal (6874m) and Dorje Raksupa (6799m).
- Combined car and hiking tour with tour guide
- Experience the hustle and bustle, aromas and stunning views of Kathmandu.
- Take a guided cultural tour of the Kathmandu Valley.
Benefits of Best Heritage Tour
- Free private car transfer from Tribhuvan International Airport on arrival and to your hotel
- Multi-channel communication (email, WeChat, Viber, Skype, Zoom, WhatsApp, Facebook)
- Online trip discussion after booking confirmation
- Simple payment system
- Easy booking and reservation system
- 24/7 phone contact: +9779851149197/+9779810043046
- Free excess baggage storage at Best Heritage Tour Store during the trek
Online trip discussion
Join our virtual meeting to get all your trekking questions answered, from packing essentials to detailed itineraries and trail expectations.After completing your booking, we will inform you of the date and time available for the trekking meeting via email and will hold the online trekking meeting once we receive the necessary documents. Comprehensive Overview
Discover the cultural and historical significance of Kathmandu, the vibrant capital of Nepal. The Kathmandu Valley in particular is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with seven monumental zones, each with its own cultural and historical importance. A tour of these places is a must for anyone visiting Nepal. Here are the main attractions you will visit on this tour.
Kathmandu Durbar Square
The tour starts with a visit to Durbar Square in the heart of Kathmandu. This ancient palace complex dates back to the 12th century and is home to several temples, courts and palaces that were once the centre of power for the Malla and Shah dynasties. The intricate carvings and architecture of the palaces and temples are a testament to Nepal's rich cultural heritage. Durbar Square is home to Kumari Ghar, the home of the Living Goddess of Nepal.
Pashupatinath Temple
Discover the one-of-a-kind atmosphere of Pashupatinath Temple, a revered Hindu pilgrimage site. This temple, devoted to Lord Shiva, is situated alongside the Bagmati River. The temple complex includes several small shrines and temples, and visitors can witness Hindu cremation ceremonies on the riverbank. Immerse yourself in the beauty of over 500 temples nestled within Pashupatinath's sprawling complex.
Swayambhunath Stupa
Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, is an ancient Buddhist site located on a hilltop and offers panoramic views of the city. The stupa is decorated with colorful prayer flags and is surrounded by small temples and shrines believed to have been built by various rulers over the centuries.Ascend 365 steps to reach the grand stupa at the heart of this spiritual sanctuary.
Boudhanath Stupa
Another must-see is Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world. Located in the heart of Kathmandu's Tibetan refugee community, the stupa is a center of Buddhist pilgrimage and meditation. Surrounding the stupa are small shops selling traditional Tibetan handicrafts, giving visitors an insight into Tibetans' unique culture and way of life.
Patan Durbar Square
The tour continues with a visit to Patan Durbar Square in the ancient city of Patan/Kritipur. The square is home to several ancient temples, palaces and courtyards that speak to Nepal's rich cultural heritage. Visitors can appreciate traditional Newari architecture and art, a unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist influences. The Krishna Mandir (temple) in Patan Durbar Square is famous for its Shikhara style architecture.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square
This tour also includes a visit to Bhaktapur Durbar Square in the ancient city of Bhaktapur, a short drive from Kathmandu. Dating back to the 12th century, this ancient palace complex is home to several temples, courtyards and palaces that speak to Nepal's rich cultural heritage. The main tourist attractions of Bhaktapur Durbar Square include the 55 Window Palace, Golden Gate, Vatsala Temple, and Nyatapola Temple. The 55-window palace is an ancient palace that once served as the center of power for the Malla dynasty. The palace is decorated with intricate carvings and is a fine example of Newar architecture. Marvel at the architectural splendor of Nyatapola Temple, a towering five-story masterpiece and the largest of its kind in Nepal.
Channarayan Temple
Another World Heritage Site, Channarayan Temple is a Hindu temple located in the hill village of Channarayan in Bhaktapur. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is one of the oldest in Nepal. It is believed that the structure was constructed during the Lichhavi period in the 4th century AD.
The temple complex consists of a main sanctum, several smaller shrines and stone pillars with inscriptions from the Lichhavi period. The main temple is a two-storey pagoda-style temple with intricate carvings of deities, mythological figures and scenes from Hindu epics such as the Ramayana and the Mahabharata.
In addition to these UNESCO World Heritage sites, we will also take you to other notable sites in the Kathmandu region, including Dakshinkali Temple, Chobar, and Nagarkot.
Dakshinkali is considered the center of Hindu power, where animal sacrifices are commonly performed. In Chobar, you can visit several caves and the Bagmati Valley.
No trek in Nepal is complete without a view of the majestic Himalayan ranges, so we will arrange a morning view from a lookout point in Nagarkot. From this vantage point you can see the Annapurna range (8091m), Manaslu (8163m), Langtang (7246m), Ganesh Himal (Ganesh Himal 1-5), Sisa Pamma (8013m), Gaurisankar Himal (6874m) and Dorje Raksupa (6799m).
Finally, the Kathmandu Valley World Heritage Tour offers an insight into the ancient history and cultural heritage of Nepal. This tour is a must for all visitors to Nepal and offers an opportunity to experience the unique architecture, art and culture of this beautiful valley.
Itinerary
When you reach Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will welcome you with a customized flyer.
After the welcome, you will be presented with a floral garland and transferred to your hotel in a private vehicle. We are pleased to provide this service to all of our esteemed guests. So that our customers feel safe in a new country and do not have to face any navigation problems.
You will be picked up at your hotel in a private vehicle and guided around the Kathmandu Valley. Some of the must-visit places include Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhu and Bodhnath Stupas, and Pashupati Hindu Temple. All of these remarkable sites have been recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Kathmandu Durbar Square is home to many historical and spiritual sites as well as ancient architecture. You will also see Kumari Ghar, the home of the living Goddess of Nepal. You will also be taken to Kumari Chowk and visit the courtyard of Kumari Ghar.
Next, you will visit Pashupatinath Temple, built in the 5th century and renovated by the Mallas. Pashupatinath boasts over 500 temples within its premises.You will also visit the stupas of Boudhanath and Swayambhunath. Boudhanath is one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Nepal. The most important monument at Boudhanath is the dome-shaped structure with waving prayer flags. The prayer wheels along the stupa are well-known attractions.
A must-visit location is Swayambhunath, also called the Monkey Temple. As the name suggests, there are a lot of monkeys within the grounds of Swayambhunath. In order to reach the central stupa, you must ascend 365 steps. As you walk along the steps, you will feel like you are surrounded by many small shrines. Swayambhunath is adorned with many prayer wheels. The Buddha statue at Swayambhunath holds the title of being the largest in all of Nepal.
Today, visit another World Heritage Site, Patan Durbar Square, the court of Malla kings. Here, visitors can explore three distinct courtyards: Sundari Chowk, Mul Chowk, and Keshav Narayan Chowk.
Built in the Shikhara style, Krishna Mandir is one of the most popular monuments in Patan Durbar Square. After visiting Patan, you will be taken to Dakshinkali Temple. Dakshinkali is considered a center of power in Hindu mythology and animal sacrifices (mainly goats and chickens) are performed here. Next, you will be taken to Chobar, an ancient village on the edge of the Kathmandu Valley. Chobar is home to numerous caves and the Bagmati Valley. Afterwards, you will proceed to Nagarkot, known for its spectacular morning views, for an overnight stay.
At an altitude of 2,100 meters, Nagarkot is a popular viewpoint just outside Kathmandu. Rise early this day to explore the most important peaks of Nepal, including Everest (8,848m), Dorje Lhakpa (6,966m), Langtang (7,234m), Ganesh Himal (7,422m), Gauri Shankar (7,134m) and Rolwaling (7,181m). After enjoying the early morning views, you will return to Kathmandu, stopping on the way to visit Channarayan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This temple is one of the oldest in Nepal and features intricate carvings and elaborate decorations. You will also explore Bhaktapur Durbar Square, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, which contains several important historical temples, courtyards and intricately carved gates. The square serves as a hub for religious and cultural events, showcasing exquisite Newari architecture and art. Finally, return to Kathmandu where your tour ends.
You will be picked up from your hotel and transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport. We hope you enjoy your trip to Nepal and return for more adventures in this Himalayan country.
What is included?
- Free round trip transfers between Tribhuvan International Airport and your hotel
- 4 nights accommodation in your selected hotel (3 nights in Kathmandu and 1 night in Nagarkot).
- Guided Kathmandu city tour with private transport and entrance fees
- All transportation during the tour.
- Standard Meals: 4 breakfasts
- Official (Best Heritage Tour) Tour Guide (State Registered and Licensed) (food, accommodation, salary, transport, insurance, equipment etc.)
- All state and local taxes.
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu after the tour
What is not included?
- International flights
- Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu before and after the tour
- Dinner and Lunch (Kathmandu, Nagarkot, Bhaktapur)
- Personal expenses such as shopping, snacks, bar bills, bottled or boiled water, cold drinks, hot drinks (tea/coffee), alcoholic beverages, Wi-Fi, laundry service, telephone calls, etc.
- Extra costs incurred due to unforeseen circumstances. Changes in the itinerary due to safety concerns, illness, changes in government policies, strikes, etc.
- Tips to tour guide
- Any expenses not specified in the "Price Included" section are deemed as not covered.
Route Map
FAQ's
Yes, all our guides are fluent in English and many speak other languages. This facilitates clear communication and enhances your overall experience.
Most trekking guides in Nepal speak basic to advanced English, which is enough for general communication about trekking and safety precautions. Some speak more fluent English, which will improve your overall trekking experience.
Yes, most visitors need a tourist visa to enter Nepal. A visa can be obtained on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or applied for in advance at a Nepalese embassy or consulate.
Yes, you will need two passport-sized photos for both the visa application and the trekking permits, so it's a good idea to bring extra copies just in case.
You'll need a valid passport (with at least six months validity), a passport-sized photo, and the visa fee (which varies depending on the duration of stay).
To obtain the RAP, you’ll need:
- A valid passport.
- A Nepal visa.
- Travel insurance.
- Two passport-sized photos.
- A letter from your trekking agency detailing your itinerary and the names of the guide and group.
Yes, it’s possible to extend your visa if you wish to stay longer in Nepal. Extensions can be processed at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or Pokhara, but you should apply before your current visa expires.
You can exchange US dollars or Euros for Nepalese rupees upon arrival, but we recommend carrying cash in the local currency for most transactions outside of major cities.
Yes, Nepal offers an electronic visa (e-visa) that can be applied for online before arriving. This process enables you to bypass the visa queue upon arrival at the airport. After completing the online application, you can get your visa stamped on arrival.
Yes, if you wish to extend your stay, you can apply for a visa extension at the immigration office in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
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.
Choosing the best heritage tour provides an enriching cultural experience, blending education, comfort, and unique local interactions for unforgettable travel memories.
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.
A comprehensive tour of the UNESCO sites in the Kathmandu Valley can take anywhere from one to three days, depending on how many sites you plan to visit each day.
The best time to visit is during the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when the weather is pleasant, skies are clear, and festivals like Dashain and Tihar enhance the cultural experience.
Yes, licensed local guides are available, and it's highly recommended to hire one to get in-depth historical and cultural insights into each site.
The entrance fees vary:
- Kathmandu Durbar Square: Approx. $10 USD
- Patan Durbar Square: Approx. $10 USD
- Bhaktapur Durbar Square: Approx. $15 USD
- Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, and Swayambhunath have lower fees, around $2-$5 USD.
Fees may vary for foreigners and locals, and some discounts may apply for students or group bookings.
At certain sites like Pashupatinath, only Hindus are allowed to enter the inner sanctum, but tourists can observe from outside. Additionally, photography may be restricted in specific areas, especially inside temples.
You can hire a private car with a driver or use public transport like buses and taxis. Many tour operators offer organized packages that include transportation.
Most guides speak English, but there are also guides available who speak languages like French, German, Chinese, Japanese, and Spanish.
Some of the sites were damaged during the 2015 earthquake, but restoration efforts have been underway. Though most sites are accessible, you might still encounter ongoing renovations.
You can visit the sites independently, but a guided tour provides deeper cultural context. Self-guided tours require good research or a guidebook to fully appreciate the historical significance.
As of now, tickets are generally purchased separately for each site, but some travel agencies offer package tours that include all the entrance fees.
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.
The tour price typically applies to adults. However, children may receive discounted entry fees at certain sites. Best Heritage Tour can assist with the details for children’s rates.
The itinerary may be adjusted in case of extreme weather, but generally, the tour can be conducted in most weather conditions. Best Heritage Tour monitors weather forecasts to ensure your comfort and safety.
If you're running late, please notify Best Heritage Tour as soon as possible. The team will do their best to adjust the schedule, though delays may affect the time spent at each site.
If you wish to extend the tour or visit additional sites, Best Heritage Tour can accommodate your request with advance notice. Customization options are available, allowing you to make the most of your day.
Yes, the transportation is included in the tour price. Best Heritage Tour ensures that all transportation costs, including fuel and driver services, are covered in the package, providing you with a hassle-free experience.
Yes, the guide will speak English fluently. Best Heritage Tour ensures that all guides are proficient in English and can provide detailed explanations of the sites. If you require a guide who speaks another language, we can arrange that with prior notice.
Absolutely! Best Heritage Tour encourages guests to ask their guide for personalized recommendations about local dining spots, shopping, and cultural experiences. Your guide will be happy to share their knowledge to make your day even more special.