Things to do in

Bhaktapur (District)

Kathmandu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, contains 7 monuments and historic sites that have been recognized by UNESCO. These monument zones are the Durbar squares of the three cities of Kathmandu, Patan, Bhaktapur, and the religious temples of Swayambhu, Bouddha, Pashupati, & Changu Narayan. Pashupatinath Temple As one of the must visit legendary Hindu temple, this site welcomes millions of visitors every year. The temple is located on the bank of sacred Bagmati River, which runs down to the Ganges. Here, you get a chance to witness open public crematorium with all the rites and rituals being performed. You come to see even the holy men posing for pictures with painted face, dreadlocked hair & ash-applied body. Swayambhunath Temple Swayambhunath is approx. 2600 years old Buddhist Stupa, looking over the entire Kathmandu valley. It is often referred to as the Monkey Temple due to the hundreds of monkeys- the local dwellers. The main Stupa, ancient sculptures, temple of child protector goddess, monasteries, etc are the main attractions here. Boudhanath Bouddhanath is considered as one of the largest Stupas in the world, constructed back in the 4th century. The shrine itself resembles a Tibetan village since the locale comprises Tibetan monasteries. Besides this, there are a no. of painting schools with Lamas painting Thanka, the best souvenirs from Nepal. Patan Durbar Square Located about 5 km away from the capital city in the district of Lalitpur. It is a fusion of two influential religions, Buddhism and Hinduism. The town of patan perfectly showcased the genuine art, architecture, culture, religion and heritage. The classic architectural design displayed on the houses, fine handwork on the doors & windows represents the aesthetic ancient beauty. Kathmandu Durbar Square Kathmandu Durbar Square is a historic site situated in the heart of old Kathmandu city. The durbar square is surrounded by palaces, courtyards and temples. It is a pleasant place to visit due to its historical significance, magnificent Newari architecture, & bustling bazaars. Bhaktapur Durbar Square Bhaktapur Durbar Square located in Bhaktapur, a city in the Kathmandu Valley showcases the rich cultural heritage of Nepal. It is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture, temples, palaces, & intricate artwork. It is filled with numerous other shrines, statues, and courtyards, each displaying remarkable architectural and artistic craftsmanship. Changunarayan Temple Changunarayan Temple, one of the oldest temples in Nepal, is located on a hilltop in the village of Changu Narayan, near Bhaktapur. It is believed to have been built in the 4th century during the Lichhavi dynasty, making it one of the oldest surviving wooden structures in Nepal. Outline Itinerary: Our guide and driver will pick you up from your pick up point and your guided sightseeing tour starts. You will have a lunch break between the tour and you will be escorted to your hotel in the late afternoon.

Embark on a cultural journey through the heart of Kathmandu with our UNESCO World Heritage Sites Private and Shared Tour Day Tour, designed by Relax Getaways. This immersive day trip offers two options, either visiting 4 or 7 of the most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu Valley. Explore the rich history, art, and spirituality that define Nepal's heritage, with expert guides leading you through ancient temples, palaces, and stupas that are central to the country’s cultural identity. Tour Options: 1. 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites (Private and Shared Options): Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple): An ancient Buddhist site perched on a hill, offering panoramic views of the valley and a spiritual atmosphere. Boudhanath Stupa: One of the largest stupas in the world, a key pilgrimage site for Tibetan Buddhists. Pashupatinath Temple: Nepal's holiest Hindu temple, set on the banks of the Bagmati River, known for its religious rituals and sadhus. Patan Durbar Square: A showcase of Nepalese craftsmanship, featuring ancient temples, statues, and the renowned Patan Museum. 2. 7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites (Private and Shared Options): Includes the 4 sites above, plus: Kathmandu Durbar Square: The historic royal palace complex, home to ancient temples and stunning courtyards. Bhaktapur Durbar Square: Known for its medieval architecture, this site is rich in history and art, with iconic structures like the 55 Window Palace. Changu Narayan Temple: Nepal's oldest temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, showcasing intricate carvings and sculptures. Whether you opt for the 4-site or 7-site tour, this day trip provides a fascinating glimpse into Kathmandu's centuries-old heritage, offering an unforgettable experience of Nepal's spiritual and architectural wonders.

Nagarkot Sunrise and hike to Changu Narayan tour takes you to the beautiful hill Nagarkot, one of the popular Himalayan view-points in Kathmandu located at an altitude of 2,195 meters. The hill offers mesmerizing sunrise views over the spectacular Himalayan range. Soak in the fresh air of the mountains and sweeping views of the Himalayas during a private 7-8 hour tour between Nagarkot and Changu Narayan from Kathmandu, Patan or Bhaktapur. After sunrise, stop for the breakfast or tea/coffee at hotel in Nagarkot and start the hike to Changu Narayan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the oldest Hindu temple in the Kathmandu Valley. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is known for its exquisite stone carvings, sculptures, and intricate architecture. You'll have ample time to explore the temple complex and admire the stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys before returning to Kathmandu, Patan or Bhaktapur. The hike traverses a rugged mountain landscape sprinkled with traditional hamlets and forests. Your private guide will accompany you on the hike and provide you with interesting information about the places you'll visit. The distance from Nagarkot to Changu Narayan hike is approximately 12 kilometers, and it takes around 4-5 hours to complete the hike, depending on your pace and the stops you make along the way. If the weather is clear, the hike offers stunning views of the Himalayan range and the surrounding hills and valleys. Please note that from Nagarkot, mountain views are only visible when the weather is clear and without clouds. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning views of the Himalayas and the beautiful countryside during the hike.

Embark on an exclusive journey through Kathmandu's cultural treasures with our private day tour, meticulously curated to unveil the city's seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Picture yourself at the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, where spirituality merges with the timeless flow of the Bagmati River, creating a serene and captivating atmosphere. Our expert guide will lead you through the intricacies of Hindu rituals, offering you a firsthand experience of this spiritual sanctuary. Step into the living history of Kathmandu at Durbar Square, where ancient royal palaces and awe-inspiring temples beckon. Marvel at the craftsmanship that narrates tales of Nepal's glorious past, immersing you in a world where every stone has a story to tell. The journey then takes you to the Swayambhunath Stupa, an architectural marvel atop a hill, providing a panoramic vista of the Kathmandu Valley. Let the spiritual energy of this iconic site leave an indelible mark on your soul. Venture into the heart of Patan, a city celebrated for its well-preserved ancient architecture. The Patan Durbar Square unfolds before you, a harmonious blend of Hindu and Buddhist influences, showcasing the brilliance of Newari craftsmanship. Stroll through the square, where every step is a walk through centuries of cultural evolution. Boudhanath Stupa awaits, a colossal mandala that transcends time. The rhythmic chants and the sight of devotees circumambulating the stupa create an enchanting ambiance, inviting you to connect with the spiritual essence of Nepal. Capture the essence of the vibrant city of Bhaktapur as twilight sets in, wandering through its medieval streets and squares. The Bhaktapur Durbar Square preserves the charm of a bygone era, providing a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Newari culture. Culminate your day at the Changunarayan Temple, a hidden gem adorned with exquisite sculptures and ancient inscriptions. Our private tour ensures an intimate experience, allowing you to absorb the historical and cultural significance of each site without the rush of a crowded itinerary. Indulge in the allure of Kathmandu's UNESCO World Heritage Sites, creating memories that resonate with the rich tapestry of Nepal's cultural heritage. With our personalized and enriching tour, you are not just a visitor but a privileged guest, unlocking the secrets of this ancient city. Book your private tour now and let the magic of Kathmandu unfold before you, leaving you with a lifetime of cherished memories.

The UNESCO World Heritage Sites Private and Shared Day Tour is a comprehensive journey through the rich cultural, religious, and historical heritage of the Kathmandu Valley. Curated by Luxury Holidays Nepal, this tour allows you to experience the essence of Nepal’s ancient traditions, exquisite architecture, and vibrant spirituality. With both private and shared tour options, it is designed to cater to individual preferences, offering flexibility and comfort. Tour Options: 1. 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites Tour Ideal for those with limited time, this tour covers four of Kathmandu’s most iconic landmarks, each with its own unique historical and spiritual significance: Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple): Perched atop a hill, this ancient Buddhist stupa offers panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley and is home to playful monkeys. The white dome and gilded spire, with the Buddha’s all-seeing eyes, represent wisdom and compassion. Boudhanath Stupa: One of the largest stupas in the world and a focal point of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal, this magnificent stupa is surrounded by prayer flags and monasteries, making it a spiritual haven for meditation and rituals. Pashupatinath Temple: A sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located along the banks of the Bagmati River. This temple is one of the holiest sites in Hinduism, where pilgrims and sadhus (holy men) gather, and funeral rites are performed at the ghats. Patan Durbar Square: Known for its intricate Newari architecture, this square is filled with ancient temples, statues, and the former royal palace, which now houses a museum showcasing rare artifacts and art. 2. 7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites Tour For travelers looking to delve deeper into Nepal’s heritage, this tour includes all seven UNESCO-listed sites in the Kathmandu Valley, providing a more comprehensive experience: Kathmandu Durbar Square: A historic plaza that served as the royal residence for Nepalese kings. It is home to the Hanuman Dhoka Palace, the Taleju Temple, and the famous Kumari Ghar, where the living goddess resides. Bhaktapur Durbar Square: A treasure trove of medieval art and architecture, Bhaktapur is renowned for its well-preserved structures, including the Peacock Window and the 55 Window Palace. Changu Narayan Temple: The oldest temple in Nepal, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Located on a hilltop, this serene site is adorned with beautiful stone carvings and sculptures, dating back over a millennium. In addition to these, the tour also includes Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Patan Durbar Square. This day tour is perfect for history buffs, cultural enthusiasts, and spiritual seekers looking to immerse themselves in the wonders of Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Whether you prefer a private, personalized experience or a shared journey with fellow travelers, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure through the ancient soul of Nepal.

Your guide will pick up from your hotel by a private car and drive (1:30 hr) to Nagarkot view point 2175m. Enjoy the view of Himalayan panorama including Mt. Everest, Gauri Shanker, Dorje Lakpa, Langtang, Ganesh Himal and many more. You may have a small break for tea/ coffee and toilet. Continue driving (15m) and start hiking (3 hr approx) to Changu Narayan temple (Unesco World Heritage site). On the way you will see rural life of Nepal, seasonal farming, goat grazing farmers and locally alcohol making. The trail will be flat walking in the beginning and hike up and again flat and little down at the end. You will visit a Hindu temple on the way. While arriving to Changu village, you will have a lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch visit Changu Narayan temple. The temple has master piece of Nepalese stone carvings, wood carvings and God and Goddess icons. After exploring the temple, drive back to your hotel and end the tour.

Trip Begins: Take a scenic drive to Dhulikhel and explore the area The tour begins early morning with a Guide picking you up from your hotel. You will then take a one hour drive to Dhulikhel and explore the area. Hike to Namobuddha: The hike towards Namobuddha begins from Dhulikhel. You will then be passing through a thousand steps of ‘Peace Garden’, Kali Temple and Kavre Bhanjyang. On your way you will be enjoying the scenic view of the valley with a mountain range in the background. Here you will also be exploring the traditional farming methods of Newari people, their cultures and lifestyle. Guided Tour of Namobuddha Monastery: After your hike, you will be exploring the Namobuddha monastery, also known as Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery. The monastery is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery that lies at the top of the hill in Namobuddha Municipality. According to the old legend, 6000 years ago, a prince (Mahasatwo/Ngingdui Tshenpo), at the top of the hill, looking at the jungle, discovers a tigress lying near the rock. Very quickly, he realizes that the tigress was about to die due to hunger with her five little babies still sucking milk from her and the survival of the babies depended on their mother. Mahasatwo, decides to give his life to the tigress in a bust of love and compassion. So Prince Mahasatwo cuts his body to present his warm blood in the mouth of the mother tiger, and the taste of blood gives the appetite to the starving family. Drive back to your hotel: After your completer your visit to Namobuddha Monastery, you will be dropped back to your hotel in the late afternoon.

Discover the the awe-inspiring grandeur of Mount Everest with this helicopter flight that includes permits, and insurance coverage. Start with a comfortable pickup service from your accommodation in Kathmandu, Lalitpur, or Bhaktapur. Be transported to the take-off sight where you pilot takes you through a safety briefing. Feel the exhilaration of lift off as you soar towards Everest. Fly over he Himalayas in a helicopter and soak up panoramic vistas of snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and ancient glaciers. Be provided with fascinating insights into the region's geography, history, and culture as you fly. Capture stunning photographs of Everest and the surrounding Himalayan landscape, preserving moments of awe and wonder. Keep your energy up during your trip with the included snacks and refreshments on board. Stop on the surface of this iconic behemoth with the guaranteed landing near the Everest Base Camp in place called Pheriche. Have time to admire the views with the included breakfast at the Everest View Hotel before making your return flight and being transferred back to your accommodation.

Embark on a 6-hour tour of Patan and Bhaktapur to discover the rich cultural heritage of two separate kingdoms from early times. These medieval cities are filled with age-old palaces, temples, shrines, monasteries, and courtyards. They both offer extensive historical centers and boast otherworldly views, and are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Patan Durbar Square is the main attraction, and it's a bustling square with a museum, palaces, Hindu temples, and ancient courtyards. As you explore the square, you'll discover the intricately carved facades and ornate decorations on the buildings, offering a glimpse into the past glory of the Malla kings. Bhaktapur, located about 12 km from Kathmandu city, has retained its medieval spirit and is often referred to as the "City of Devotees". The atmosphere in Bhaktapur Durbar Square is centuries-old and captivating. Here, you can find the iconic Nyathapole Temple, Golden Gate, 55 Window Palace, and a fascinating museum filled with exquisite art and artifacts. During the tour, your experienced guide will share with you the rich history and unique features of both Patan and Bhaktapur. After a day of exploration, sit back and enjoy a pleasant drive back to your accommodation, reflecting on your enriching experience in these two historic cities.

Immerse yoursself in the natural beauty of the Himalayas as the sun rises with this tour from from Kathmandu to the Nagarkot. Have the chance to explore ancient cultural heritage sites by selecting the option that includes a guided hike to the Changunarayan temple. Begin your journey with an early morning departure from Kathmandu in a comfortable car. Relax in air-conditioned comfort on the drive up to the Nagarkot viewpoint. Feel the thrill of watching the sun come up over the Himalayan ranges from this privileged vantage point. Catch a glimpse of Mt. Everest in the distance on a clear day. The sky's transformation with vibrant hues as the sun rises over the snow-capped peaks is a moment of pure bliss and a photographer's paradise. Return to your accommodation in Katmandu or opt for the guided hike to the Changunarayan Temple and continue your experience with a delightful journey through lush hills, small villages, and terraced farms. Take a peek into rural life in Nepal on this scenic walk that is filled with cultural insights and natural splendors. Arrive at the Changunarayan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, that is renowned for its rich architectural beauty and historical significance. Purchase entry to the temple to explore the oldest temple in Nepal's history. As you uncover the temple's ancient artwork and statues, you be transported back in time, gaining a deeper understanding of Nepal's heritage and religious traditions.