Rudra Varna Mahavihar

See the sights of the Kathmandu Valley in Nepal on a 6-hour tour of an area that covers 218 square miles (350 kilometers). Kathmandu Valley contains 3 fabulous cities of great historic, religious, and cultural interest: Kathmandu (Kantipur), Patan (Lalitpur), and Bhadgaon (Bhaktapur). The Kathmandu Valley has often been described as an open-air art gallery with thousands of sacred shrines in brick, stone, metal, and wood scattered throughout it. On your tour, you will not be able to see the entire valley, but you will be taken to some of the most important and monumental sites. Many of these are squares or temples that are also designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Swayambhunath/Monkey Temple Swayambhunath / Monkey Temple is a 2,500-year-old Stupa situated overlooking Kathmandu Valley. Its name comes from the holy monkey living in part of the complex. The painted eyes on 4 sides symbolize the all-seeing eyes of Buddha, and the site is one of the most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites. Pashupatinath Temple Pashupatinath is a temple of Lord Shiva and the most sacred of the 275 Shiva temples worldwide. It is also the oldest temple in Kathmandu. The Bagmati River runs alongside the temple, and is the site not only of pilgrims who bathe in the river, but also contains a special area where members of the royal family are cremated. Boudhanath Stupa Boudhanath Stupa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and also one of the biggest in the world. It is the most important pilgrimage site for Tibetan Buddhists, who come here by the thousands during the winter festival to pay their respect. Patan Durbar Square Patan Durbar Square is home to the former Patan Royal Family. The most photographed of Kathmandu’s 3 Durbar Squares, it features a remarkable display of Newari architecture. Its main attractions include the Krishna Temple, with its 21 golden pinnacles, Rudra Varna Mahavihar, a Buddhist Monastery that houses local treasures, and the central courtyard of Mul Chowk.

Explore the Rich Heritage of Patan Durbar Square: Patan Durbar Square, nestled at the heart of Patan city, is a treasure trove of Newari architecture and culture. It encompasses the historic residence of the former royal family of Patan, showcasing intricate craftsmanship and a glimpse into the past. Palatial Complex: The square houses an old royal palace with three major courtyards, with Mul Chowk being the central and oldest. This area is adorned with architectural gems like the Krishna Temple, Bhimsen Temple, and the resplendent Golden Temple of Hiranya Varna Mahavira. Sundari Chowk, with the exquisite sunken bath of Tusha Hiti, boasts remarkable sculptures crafted in wood, stone, and metal. Temples and Religious Sites: Patan Durbar Square boasts a Taleju Bhawani Temple, an octagonal, three-storied marvel, at the northeast corner of Mul Chowk. The Sundari Chowk is centered around the Royal Bath, a masterpiece of stone carvings. The Degu Taleju temple, overlooking the main square, stands between Mul Chowk and Mani Keshab Narayan Chowk. This square is not just a palace but a sacred space. Buddhist Monastery: The Rudra Varna Mahavihar Buddhist Monastery Complex is an ancient institution with an impressive collection of sculptures and statues made from various materials. This sacred place has witnessed the coronation of many ancient kings. Temples of Red Machhendranath and Minnath: The Red Machhendranath Temple, constructed in 1408 AD in Tabahal, is where Red Machhendra, also known as Avalokiteshwor, resides for six months of the year. There's also a Min Nath temple in Tangal, believed to be older than the Red Machhendranath temple. Hiranya Varna Mahavihar (Golden Temple): This three-storied golden pagoda dedicated to Shakyamuni (Lord Buddha) was built in the 21st century by King Bhaskar Verma. Its walls are adorned with beautiful carvings, and the paintings inside depict the life story of the Buddha. In the upper tiers, you'll find the white image of Amoshpash Lokeshwor and a large prayer wheel. MahaBouddha: Located a short walk from Patan Durbar Square, this Buddhist temple is made of high-quality bricks and features thousands of engraved images of Lord Buddha. It's a terracotta structure that stands as a masterpiece of 14th-century Nepalese architecture.

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the vibrant heart of Nepal with our Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour. This immersive experience offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration and historical discovery, showcasing the rich heritage of the Kathmandu Valley. From ancient temples to bustling squares, each stop on this tour tells a unique story of Nepal's illustrious past and vibrant present. • Swoyambhunath (Swayambhu) - The Monkey Temple Begin your adventure at Swoyambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple. Perched atop a hill, this iconic stupa offers a panoramic view of Kathmandu Valley. The temple's mystical ambiance, adorned with colorful prayer flags and spinning prayer wheels, makes it a spiritual haven and a photographer's delight. • Patan Durbar Square - A Testament to Newari Architecture Next, visit the historic Patan Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its exquisite Newari architecture. Marvel at the intricately carved wooden temples, statues, and palaces that date back to the Malla period. Don't miss the Krishna Mandir and the Patan Museum, which houses a rich collection of traditional artifacts. • Pashupatinath - The Sacred Hindu Temple Continue your journey to Pashupatinath, one of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located on the banks of the Bagmati River, this sprawling temple complex is a focal point for spiritual ceremonies and rituals. Witness the captivating evening aarti (prayer ceremony) and the sacred cremation ghats, offering a profound insight into Hindu traditions. • Boudhanath - The Majestic Stupa Conclude your tour at Boudhanath, one of the largest stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Encircled by a vibrant community of Tibetan Buddhists, the stupa is a serene place of worship and meditation. Walk around the massive mandala, spin the prayer wheels, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere as monks chant mantras in the surrounding monasteries. Throughout the tour, you'll be accompanied by an experienced guide who will share fascinating stories and historical insights, making your journey through Kathmandu's landmarks both educational and enriching. Join us for this captivating tour and immerse yourself in the cultural and spiritual essence of Kathmandu.

After being collected from your hotel, you will begin your day exploring the beautiful city of Patan, which lies in the Lalitpur district. The best point to start your sightseeing is Patan Durbar Square, which includes the Royal Palaces. These are temples which depict the amazing skills of the area's ancestors. Bhimsen Temple is dedicated to Bhimsen, the god of trade and business, and from there you will explore the Vishwanath Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Krishna Mandir is a temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. You will then explore the Golden Temple, a unique monastery which is a few minutes’ walk from Durbar Square. Your next destination will be Bhaktapur, which is the third-most major town in the valley and the best place to start sightseeing in Bhaktapur. It covers a larger area than the Durbar Squares of Kathmandu and Lalitpur, and is far less crowded. After this exploration you will encounter the Mahaboudha Temple and Rudra Varna Mahabihar, before you end your sightseeing for the day and drive back to Kathmandu.