Kathmandu, Nepal-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

  • Morning: Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) and take a taxi or bus to your hotel. Check-in at the Hotel Yak & Yeti or similar, located in the heart of Thamel.
  • Afternoon: Visit the nearby Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest shrines for Hindus. Take a stroll around the temple complex and observe the sacred rituals being performed by devotees.
  • Evening: Head to the Thamel Tourist Area for dinner and shopping. Try some local Nepali cuisine at Thamel House, a popular restaurant serving momos, thukpa, and other traditional dishes.
  • Things to know: Be prepared for crowded streets and narrow alleys in Thamel. Respect local customs and traditions when visiting Pashupatinath Temple.

Day 2: Explore Kathmandu Valley

  • Morning: Visit the Boudhanath Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world.
  • Afternoon: Explore the nearby Patan City, a historic city with beautiful temples and palaces.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Ambassador Hotel’s restaurant, which serves international cuisine with stunning views of the surrounding valley.

Day 3: Visit Bhaktapur City

  • Morning: Take a short drive to Bhaktapur, another ancient city in the Kathmandu Valley. Visit the Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with beautiful architecture and art.
  • Afternoon: Explore the nearby Nagarkot, a scenic hill station with breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
  • Evening: Head back to Kathmandu and enjoy dinner at Kathmandu Guest House, which serves traditional Nepali cuisine.

Day 4: Shopping and Relaxation

  • Morning: Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring the local markets in Thamel. Visit the Thamel Central Market for local handicrafts and textiles.
  • Afternoon: Relax at your hotel or explore the nearby Kathmandu Garden, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
  • Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at Orchid Restaurant, which serves international cuisine with live music and dancing.

Day 5: Departure

  • Morning: Spend the morning shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring any remaining attractions. Check-out of your hotel and head to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) for departure.
  • Tips: Be prepared for traffic congestion in Kathmandu, especially during peak travel seasons.

Transportation

  • Taxi: Available at the airport and throughout the city.
  • Bus: A convenient option for short trips within the city.
  • Cycle Rickshaw: A fun way to explore local neighborhoods.
  • Walk: Explore local markets and streets on foot.

Other things of interest

  • Durbars: Ancient royal palaces with stunning architecture and art.
  • Temples: Visit various Hindu and Buddhist temples throughout Kathmandu Valley.
  • Local cuisine: Try traditional Nepali dishes like momos, thukpa, dal bhat, and jhol.
  • Music and dance: Enjoy live music and dancing at local restaurants and bars.

Accommodation

Budget

  • Taxi ride: NPR 200-500 ( approx. USD 2-5)
  • Bus fare: NPR 50-100 (approx. USD 0.50-1)
  • Cycle Rickshaw: NPR 200-500 (approx. USD 2-5)
  • Food and drink: NPR 500-1,000 (approx. USD 5-10) per meal

Language

  • Nepali: Official language
  • English: Widely spoken in tourist areas
  • Tibetan: Spoken by local Tibetans