Kathmandu, Nepal-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

  • Morning: Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM)
  • Transportation: Take a taxi or bus from the airport to your hotel
  • Where to stay: Hotel Yak & Yeti or similar, located in the heart of Thamel, Kathmandu’s tourist district
  • Activities:
    • Visit the famous Boudhanath Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest Buddhist shrines in the world
    • Explore the nearby Pashupatinath Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most sacred Hindu temples in Nepal
  • Where to eat: Thamel House Restaurant for traditional Nepali cuisine, or try some street food at New Road
  • Things to know:
    • Be prepared for crowds and chaos on the streets of Kathmandu
    • Try some local tea or snacks from street vendors
    • Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas

Day 2: Kathmandu City Tour

  • Morning: Visit the Kathmandu Durbar Square, a historic palace complex that was once the royal residence of the Malla kings
  • Transportation: Take a taxi or walk from your hotel to the Durbar Square
  • Activities:
    • Explore the nearby Hanuman Dhoka temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman
    • Visit the Kumari Chok temple, home to the Living Goddess (a young girl who serves as a living goddess and is revered by Nepalis)
  • Where to eat: Moonlight Restaurant for traditional Nepali cuisine with a modern twist
  • Things to know:
    • Be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting temples or sacred sites
    • Try some local fruits or snacks from street vendors

Day 3: Bhaktapur Day Trip

  • Morning: Take a taxi or bus to Bhaktapur, a historic city located just outside Kathmandu
  • Transportation: Walk or take a taxi within the city of Bhaktapur
  • Activities:
    • Visit the Changu Narayan Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu and featuring intricate carvings and artwork
    • Explore the nearby Dhur Deval temple, home to a stunning golden statue of Goddess Kali
  • Where to eat: The Red House Restaurant for traditional Nepali cuisine with a modern twist
  • Things to know:
    • Be prepared for crowds and chaos on the streets of Bhaktapur
    • Try some local tea or snacks from street vendors

Day 4: Patan Day Trip

  • Morning: Take a taxi or bus to Patan, another historic city located just outside Kathmandu
  • Transportation: Walk or take a taxi within the city of Patan
  • Activities:
    • Visit the Patan Durbar Square, a historic palace complex that was once the royal residence of the Malla kings
    • Explore the nearby Kumbheswar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and featuring intricate carvings and artwork
  • Where to eat: The Old House Restaurant for traditional Nepali cuisine with a modern twist
  • Things to know:
    • Be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting temples or sacred sites
    • Try some local fruits or snacks from street vendors

Day 5: Monkey Temple and Nagarkot

  • Morning: Visit the Pashupatinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva (this is a different temple from the one on Day 1)
  • Transportation: Take a taxi from Pashupatinath Temple to your hotel
  • Activities:
    • Explore the nearby Bhairabnath Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and featuring intricate carvings and artwork
    • Visit the famous Nagarkot hill station, located just outside Kathmandu
  • Where to eat: The Nagarkot Resort for traditional Nepali cuisine with a modern twist
  • Things to know:
    • Be prepared for crowds and chaos on the streets of Kathmandu
    • Try some local tea or snacks from street vendors

Day 6: Departure

  • Morning: Check out of your hotel and head back to Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM)
  • Transportation: Take a taxi or bus from your hotel to the airport
  • Activities:
    • Last-minute shopping for souvenirs or gifts
    • Say goodbye to Kathmandu and Nepal!

Tips and Reminders

  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting temples or sacred sites
  • Try some local fruits, snacks, or tea from street vendors
  • Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas
  • Learn a few basic Nepali phrases, such as “Namaste” (hello) or “Dhanyabaad” (thank you)
  • Don’t drink tap water and stick to bottled or filtered water
  • Try to avoid eating at restaurants that are not well-reviewed by locals

Other Things of Interest

  • Visit the Nepali Congress Party Museum, located near Durbar Square, to learn about Nepal’s history and politics
  • Take a stroll along the Bagmati River, which runs through Kathmandu and offers stunning views
  • Visit the Kathmandu Zoo, home to various animals and birds, including monkeys and birds of prey
  • Try some local yoga or meditation classes at one of the many studios in Thamel

Budget Breakdown

  • Accommodation: $30-50 per night for a budget-friendly hotel
  • Food: $5-10 per meal for traditional Nepali cuisine
  • Transportation: $1-3 per ride for taxis or buses
  • Activities: Free or $5-10 per person for most temples and attractions

Note: Prices are estimates and can vary depending on the time of year, location, and other factors.