Kathmandu Heritage Tour

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Embark on a 6-days Short Kathmandu Heritage City Tour through the cultural heart of Nepal, exploring ancient cities, sacred sites, and scenic hilltops. Begin in Kathmandu, where you’ll visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, and Boudhanath, followed by a journey to the beautifully preserved Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Enjoy a peaceful overnight stay in Nagarkot, famed for its sunrise views of the Himalayas, and take a scenic hike to Changunarayan Temple, Nepal’s oldest pagoda-style temple. This tour blends deep cultural insight, historical architecture, and light hiking—offering a perfect introduction to Nepal’s rich spiritual and artistic heritage.

Trip Facts
Country
Nepal
Duration
6 Days
Trip Grade
Easy
Max. Altitude
2175 meters
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Activities
Tour
Accomodation
Hotels
Meals
Breakfast
Best Time
All Season (Jan - Dec)

Highlights of 6-Day Heritage City Tour (Kathmandu, Bhaktapur & Nagarkot)

  • Warm welcome and guided airport transfer upon arrival in Kathmandu
  • Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites including Kathmandu, Patan & Bhaktapur Durbar Squares
  • Explore sacred spiritual sites like Swayambhunath Stupa, Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple
  • Enjoy a stunning sunrise view of the Himalayas from the hilltop village of Nagarkot (2175 m)
  • Scenic hike from Nagarkot to Changunarayan Temple, the oldest Hindu temple in the valley
  • Discover medieval art, woodwork, and temple architecture in Bhaktapur, a living museum
  • Experience the blend of Hindu and Buddhist cultures through temple visits and local traditions
  • Ideal for first-time visitors, culture lovers, and those on a short holiday in Nepal

This 6-day short heritage tour offers a rich cultural experience in and around the Kathmandu Valley. Upon arrival in Kathmandu (1350m), the journey begins with a full-day cultural sightseeing tour of iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, Pashupatinath, and the historic Kathmandu Durbar Square. On Day 3, the tour continues with a scenic drive to Bhaktapur and onward to the hill station of Nagarkot (2175m), famous for its panoramic Himalayan sunrise views. The next day features a picturesque hike from Nagarkot to the ancient temple of Changunarayan, followed by a return to Bhaktapur for an immersive exploration of its medieval charm. Day 5 is dedicated to a detailed heritage tour in Bhaktapur before driving back to Kathmandu. The trip concludes on Day 6 with departure from Kathmandu, leaving travelers with lasting impressions of Nepal’s cultural and historical treasures.

Outline Itinerary

Itinerary
Day 01:Arrival in Kathmandu (1350 m)
Max Altitude
-
Walking/Hiking
-
Itinerary
Day 02:Kathmandu cultural Sightseeing
Max Altitude
1,350m / 4,429ft
Walking/Hiking
Drive
Itinerary
Day 03:Kathmandu – Bhaktapur - Nagarkot (2175 m)
Max Altitude
2,175m / 7,135ft
Walking/Hiking
Drive
Itinerary
Day 04:Nagarkot – Changunarayan Hike – Bhaktapur
Max Altitude
1,400m / 4,593ft
Walking/Hiking
Drive
Itinerary
Day 05:Bhaktapur to Kathmandu heritage tour
Max Altitude
1,350m / 4,429ft
Walking/Hiking
Drive
Itinerary
Day 06:Departure from Kathmandu
Max Altitude
-
Walking/Hiking
-

Kathmandu Heritage Tour Detailed Itinerary

The itinerary can be customized according to your duration of holiday. Similarly, hotel can be upgraded or downgraded depending on your requirement.

Starts: Kathmandu
Ends: Kathmandu

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by our correspondent who will assist with your transfer to the hotel. Once checked in, we will arrange a pre-trip meeting where we will brief in short about the trek, answer any queries you have and meet your trekking guide as well. After the short brief, you can relax and spend rest of the day at your leisure. Stay overnight at the hotel in Kathmandu.

We will visit cultural places and UNSESCO Listed World Heritage sites like:  Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swoyambhunath and Patan Durbar Square. Stay overnight at the hotel in Kathmandu. 

  1. Kathmandu Durbar Square: (World Heritage Site) Kathmandu Durbar square is one of the popular place which is liked by many visitors due to its exquisite architecture and artistic embellishment. It consists of Huge Royal Palace with different temples dating back from the 15th to the 18th century. The house of the living goddess, the ferocious Kal Bhairav, the red monkey god, the Hanumandhokha palace, the Ashok Binayak temple, Kasthamandap, the Temple Taleju and hundreds of erotic carvings are some few examples of the sights at the square. All woodcarvings, statues and architecture in this area are exceptionally fine.
  2. Swoyambhunath: Swoyambhunath is one of the most glorious Buddhist stupa. It is said to be 2000 years old. Swoyambhunath is, perhaps, the best place to observe the religious harmony in Nepal. The stupa is among the most ancient in this part of the world and its worshippers are diverse from Newar nuns, Tibetan monks and Brahman Priests to lay Buddhist and Hindus. Swoyambhunath provides an excellent view of the Kathmandu valley.
  3. Patan Durbar Square: (World Heritage Site) Patan Durbar square boasts of many famous sites and unique architectures. The major attractions of Patan Durbar Square are the stone temple of Lord Krishna, the Royal Bath with many carvings on stone, Viswanath temple and temple of Bhimsen with a magnificent golden balcony overlooking the square. Many more temple dedicated to Ganesh, the elephant-headed god, Shiva, Narsingh, Taleju and other are situated in the Patan Durbar Square.

Today you will visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Boudhanath, Pashupatinath temple and Bhaktapur Durbar Square. After the sightseeing drive to Nagarkot, hill station to enjoy the sunset view. Stay overnight at 4-star hotel.

  1. Bouddhanth: Boudhhanath stupa is one of the largest Buddhist stupa in the world. The Stupa 100 meters in diameter, was built on an octagonal base inset with prayer wheels by the Lichchivi King Mana Deva in the 15th century. The pinnacle of this stupa represents the stages of enlightenment, symbol of royalty, compassion, knowing and nirvana. There are many myths about the origins of the Stupa. Early morning and evening are the times to visit Bouddha to join the residents in Kora. There is an enclosure with several monasteries of the different schools of Tibetan Buddhism.
  2. Pashupatinath: Pashupatinath is one of the most sacred temples in Nepal. The temple of Pashupatinath is a large double roofed pagoda of brass and gilt gold; the gateway is plated with silver. There are linga images of Shiva along with statues, shrines and temples dedicated to other deities in the temple complex. There are rows of Shiva shrines and Hindu pilgrims from all over South Asia offering worship to Shiva, the Lord of Destruction. Entrance to the temple precinct is permitted to the Hindus only. However, visitors can clearly see the temple and the activities performed in the temple premises from the vantage point across the bank of the Bagmati River.
  3. Nagarkot (2175 m): It is one of the most popular mountain resort destinations in the Kathmandu Valley rim. Located 32 km east of Kathmandu, Nagarkot is a magnificent place to spend the night and awaken to view the sun rising across the wide Himalayan range of Langtang, Gaurisanker and Everest range. It is also the starting point of the valley rim trek for those who are in Nepal for short stay.

This day after having breakfast we will begin our hiking to Changunarayan temple, which takes about 3-4 hours hike. On the way to Chagunarayan Temple we can visit picturesque typical local villages, paddy fields, and a breathtaking vista of the Kathmandu Valley.

  1. Changunarayan is one of the oldest temples in Kathmandu Valley, dating back to the 7th century, and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, one of three principal deities in Hinduism. We will explore around Changunarayan temple and then have lunch nearby and return back to Bhaktapur. After arrival in Bhaktapur, we will visit Bhaktapur Durbar Square.
  2. Bhaktapur Durbar Square: Bhaktapur Durbar Square is one of the most charming Architectural showpieces of the valley as it highlights the ancient arts of Nepal. The Square contains innumerable temples and other architectural showpieces like the Lion Gate, the statue of King Bhupatindra Malla, the Picture Gallery, the Golden Gate, the palaces of 55 windows, the Batsala temple and the bell of barking dog etc. Stay overnight at Bhaktapur Durbar Square.

Note: Those who do not want to hike to Changunarayan can visit the temple in the same vehicle and meet with rest of the hikers in Changunarayan and continue to return back to Bhaktapur. 

Today after having breakfast, prepare to return back to Kathmandu with heritage tour in between, i.e. Boudhanath & Pashupatinath. Stay overnight at hotel.

  1. Bouddhanth: Boudhhanath stupa is one of the largest Buddhist stupa in the world. The Stupa 100 meters in diameter, was built on an octagonal base inset with prayer wheels by the Lichchivi King Mana Deva in the 15th century. The pinnacle of this stupa represent the stages of enlightenment, symbol of royalty, compassion, knowing and nirvana. There are many myths about the origins of the Stupa. Early morning and evening are the times to visit Bouddha to join the local residents in Kora. There is an enclosure with several monasteries of the different schools of Tibetan Buddhism.
  2. Pashupatinath: Pashupatinath is one of the most sacred temples in Nepal. The temple of Pashupatinath is a large double roofed pagoda of brass and gilt gold; the gateway is plated with silver. There are linga images of Shiva along with statues, shrines and temples dedicated to other deities in the temple complex. There are rows of Shiva shrines and Hindu pilgrims from all over South Asia offering worship to Shiva, the Lord of Destruction. Entrance to the temple precinct is permitted to the Hindus only. However, visitors can clearly see the temple and the activities performed in the temple premises from the vantage point across the bank of the Bagmati River.

At your scheduled departure time, our correspondent will pick you up from the hotel, transfer you to the airport, and bid you farewell with warm hearts.

Altitude Chart

Unit:

Kathmandu Heritage Tour: Cost Details

Includes

  • Transfer from Airport – Hotel – Airport
  • 3 nights in Kathmandu at 4-star hotel including breakfast in twin sharing basis
  • 1 night in 3 star hotel in Nagarkot including breakfast in twin sharing basis
  • 1 night in 4 star hotel in Bhaktapur including breakfast in twin sharing basis
  • AC Transportation in private vehicle during the tour
  • Government license holder, English-speaking tour guide during the tour
  • Entrance fees during the tour
  • 1 Bottle of Mineral Water per person / per day
  • Farewell dinner with Nepali Cultural Show
  • All necessary government taxes and fees

Excludes

  • Personal equipment
  • Personal, Rescue and Medical Insurance
  • Lunch & Dinner during in Kathmandu
  • Bar bills and drinks (such as mineral water, Coca-Cola, beer, etc.).
  • Everest Panoramic Mountain flight (1 hour)
  • Unforeseen expenses caused by uncontrollable circumstances such as flight cancellations or delays, blocked roads, weather conditions, natural disasters, altitude sickness, early termination or return of the program, etc.
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips
  • Any other services not listed in cost INCLUDES

Dates & Availability

Once you’ve booked your trek, we’ll share the available dates and times for an online trip briefing. During this session, we’ll walk you through the gear checklist, explain what to expect on the journey, and answer any questions you may have. The briefing will be scheduled after we receive your essential documents.

Add-ons & Options

Personalizing your Short Heritage City Tour — just follow these steps:

Step 1: Select your desired departure date
Step 2: Specify the number of participants/ travellers
Step 3: Click on the ‘Book Now’ or ‘Add to Cart’ button
Step 4: Choose from the available add-on options to enhance your experience
Step 5: Proceed with the advance payment to confirm your booking

Essential Information

Best Season / Time for Short Heritage Tour

 Short Heritage Tour in Nepal can be enjoyed year-round, but each season offers a distinct experience.

  • March to May (Spring), the weather is pleasant with clear skies and blooming flowers, making it one of the best times for sightseeing and mountain views from Nagarkot.
  • June to August (Summer/Monsoon) brings warm temperatures but also frequent rain showers, which can affect visibility and road conditions; however, the lush greenery adds a fresh vibrancy to the landscapes.
  • September to November (Autumn) is another ideal season with clear skies, mild temperatures, and excellent visibility for both cultural exploration and sunrise views over the Himalayas. F
  • December to February (winter) is colder, especially in the mornings and evenings in Nagarkot, but the days remain sunny and perfect for touring heritage sites with fewer crowds.

Overall, while spring and autumn are the most popular times, the Short Heritage Tour is doable in all seasons with proper preparation.

Accomodations during Short Heritage Tour 

During the Short Heritage Tour, accommodation is arranged to ensure both comfort and a culturally immersive experience. For the first three nights in Kathmandu, guests will stay in a well-rated 4-star hotel, offering modern amenities and a relaxing environment after full days of sightseeing. Rooms are provided on a twin-sharing basis, and daily breakfast is included, with options ranging from local Nepali cuisine to international dishes (Buffet).

The fourth night will be spent in Nagarkot, a serene hill station known for its sunrise views over the Himalayas. Here, guests will stay in a comfortable 3-star hotel, also on a twin-sharing basis with breakfast included. While slightly more modest than Kathmandu’s accommodation, the hotel provides a cozy atmosphere and often features rooms with mountain views.

For the fifth night, the tour includes a stay at a 4-star hotel in Bhaktapur, offering a blend of traditional Newari architecture and modern comfort. Like the previous stays, the accommodation is based on twin-sharing and includes breakfast, allowing guests to enjoy local hospitality and cuisine. This carefully selected mix of accommodations ensures a pleasant and memorable stay throughout the tour.

Packing List during Short Heritage Tour

Below are the packing list for Short Heritage Tour as below: 

Clothing

  • Lightweight, breathable clothing for daytime sightseeing
  • A light jacket or sweater (especially for mornings/evenings in Nagarkot & during Winter)
  • Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers
  • Modest attire for visiting temples and heritage sites (shoulders and knees covered)
  • Sunglasses and hat for sun protection
  • Rain jacket or umbrella (especially if traveling during monsoon: June–August)
  • Scarf or shawl for temple visits (optional but useful)

Day Essentials

  • Small daypack for daily use
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
  • Wet wipes or hand sanitizer
  • Power adapter (Nepal uses Type C, D, and M plugs; voltage: 230V)
  • Personal toiletries
  • Basic first aid kit (band-aids, any personal medication, etc.)

Electronics

  • Camera or smartphone for photos
  • Charging cables and power bank
  • Travel documents (passport, visa, travel insurance, printed itinerary)

Money

  • Nepalese Rupees (NPR) for entry tickets, meals, and shopping
  • Credit/debit cards (some places accept them, but cash is more widely used)
  • Small change for tips, local snacks, etc.

Kathmandu Heritage Tour FAQs

The tour includes hotel accommodations (with breakfast), all ground transportation by private vehicle, guided cultural sightseeing in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Nagarkot, applicable entrance fees to heritage sites, and a short hike from Nagarkot to Changunarayan.

Yes, this tour is easy and suitable for all age groups, including families with children and older travelers. It involves gentle walks, short drives, and a moderate hike from Nagarkot to Changunarayan, which can be adjusted based on fitness level.

Accommodation includes 3 nights in a 4-star hotel in Kathmandu, 1 night in a 3-star hotel in Nagarkot, and 1 night in a 4-star hotel in Bhaktapur. All stays are on a twin-sharing basis and include daily breakfast.

Kathmandu Heritage tour can be done year-round. However, the best times are Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) & Winter (December - February) when the weather is clear and ideal for sightseeing and Himalayan views.

A professional cultural guide is highly recommended to enrich your experience with insights into Nepal’s history, religion, architecture, and local customs. (Also it is possible to hire language speaking guide like: Spanish speaking guide, french speaking guide, Russian speaking guide, Chinese speaking guide and so on)

Yes, entrance fees to major cultural sites like Kathmandu Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, and Pashupatinath and all the places mentioned in the program are typically included in the package.

Yes, the itinerary can be customized based on your interests, schedule, or preferred hotel category. Luxury upgrades, additional activities, or extra nights can be arranged upon request.

Yes, it is absolutely possible to extend the Short Heritage Tour to include additional destinations such as Chitwan or Pokhara. Many travelers choose to enhance their cultural experience by adding a few days to explore the natural beauty and adventure activities these places offer. Chitwan National Park is ideal for jungle safaris, wildlife viewing, and learning about the indigenous Tharu culture, while Pokhara provides stunning mountain views, serene lakes, and opportunities for boating, paragliding, and short hikes. Extensions can be easily arranged with comfortable road or flight connections from Kathmandu, making it a seamless addition to your heritage tour.

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