Kathmandu, Nepal-7-day-itinerary

August 6, 2024

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

Morning: Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu. Take a taxi or bus to your hotel.
Afternoon: Check-in to your hotel and freshen up.
Place to Visit: Boudhanath Stupa (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world. The stupa is surrounded by colorful prayer flags, incense shops, and restaurants serving Tibetan cuisine.
Activity: Explore the surrounding streets and alleys, where you can find street food vendors, souvenir shops, and local artisans selling their wares.
Where to Eat: Try some traditional Nepali cuisine at Motherland Restaurant or grab a snack from one of the many street food stalls around Boudhanath Stupa.
Tips:
- Be prepared for crowds and noise around Boudhanath Stupa.
- Respect local customs by removing your shoes before entering the stupa or any other sacred site.
- Bargain when shopping at markets, as prices are often negotiable.

Day 2: Kathmandu Valley

Morning: Visit Pashupatinath Temple (another UNESCO World Heritage Site), a sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is surrounded by cremation grounds and offers stunning views of the Bagmati River.
Afternoon: Head to Patan Durbar Square, another historic city within Kathmandu Valley. Explore the intricately carved stone temples, palaces, and courtyards.
Activity: Visit the nearby Mahabouddha Temple, a 15th-century Vajrayana Buddhist temple known for its stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
Where to Eat: Enjoy some delicious local cuisine at Thamel Kitchen or try some traditional Tibetan tea and snacks from a street vendor.
Transportation:
- Take a taxi or bus to Pashupatinath Temple.
- Walk around Patan Durbar Square, as it’s relatively small.
- Use the public bus system (known as “Jhikku”) to get to Mahabouddha Temple.

Day 3: Bhaktapur

Morning: Visit Bhaktapur, another historic city within Kathmandu Valley. Explore the Royal Palace, which features stunning architecture and ornate carvings.
Afternoon: Head to the Taumadhi Square, where you can find the famous Golden Gate and other intricately carved temples.
Activity: Try your hand at pottery-making or weaving at one of the many traditional workshops in Bhaktapur.
Where to Eat: Enjoy some local cuisine at Bhaktapur House or try some traditional Nepali tea and snacks from a street vendor.
Tips:
- Be respectful of the locals and avoid taking pictures inside temples or sacred sites without permission.
- Don’t litter, as Bhaktapur is known for its cleanliness.

Day 4: Thamel

Morning: Explore the famous Thamel neighborhood, which is a hub for tourists. Visit the Thamel Library, a peaceful oasis amidst the chaos.
Afternoon: Head to the nearby Kathmandu Guest House, a historic hotel that’s been converted into a museum. Learn about the history of tourism in Nepal and see some fascinating artifacts.
Activity: Take a yoga class or meditation session at one of the many studios in Thamel.
Where to Eat: Enjoy some international cuisine at Fire & Ice or grab a snack from one of the many cafes in Thamel.
Transportation:
- Walk around Thamel, as it’s relatively small and easy to navigate.
- Take a taxi or bus to Kathmandu Guest House.

Day 5: Nagarkot

Morning: Visit Nagarkot, a hill station located about an hour outside of Kathmandu. Enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Afternoon: Head to the nearby Changu Narayan Temple, which features some fascinating architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.
Activity: Take a hike around Nagarkot or visit one of the many traditional villages in the area.
Where to Eat: Enjoy some local cuisine at Nagarkot Café or try some traditional Nepali tea and snacks from a street vendor.
Tips:
- Be prepared for crowds and noise during peak season (March-May).
- Respect local customs by removing your shoes before entering temples or sacred sites.

Day 6: Kathmandu

Morning: Visit the National Museum, which features some fascinating artifacts and exhibits on Nepali history and culture.
Afternoon: Head to the nearby Swayambhunath Temple (Monkey Temple), a sacred Buddhist site known for its stunning views of Kathmandu.
Activity: Take a walk around the surrounding streets and alleys, where you can find street food vendors, souvenir shops, and local artisans selling their wares.
Where to Eat: Enjoy some traditional Nepali cuisine at Dakshin or grab a snack from one of the many street food stalls around Swayambhunath Temple.

Day 7: Departure

Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute attractions.
Afternoon: Head to Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) for your departure flight.
Tips:
- Be prepared for crowds and noise at the airport during peak season.
- Don’t forget to try some traditional Nepali tea and snacks on your way out!

Additional Tips and Recommendations:

Hire a reputable guide or join a group tour to get a deeper understanding of Nepal’s culture and history.
Try some local cuisine, including dal bhat, momos, and thukpa.
Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting sacred sites.
Don’t forget to try some traditional Nepali tea and snacks throughout your journey!
Bring a power adapter for charging your devices (Type D).
Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events.

Recommended Accommodations:

Hotel Yak & Yeti: A luxurious hotel located in the heart of Kathmandu.
Hotel Shangri-La: A comfortable hotel with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Hotel Himalaya: A budget-friendly hotel with clean rooms and friendly staff.

Getting Around:

Take a taxi or bus to get around Kathmandu ( approx. NPR 100-200).
Use the public bus system (known as “Jhikku”) to get to Nagarkot, Bhaktapur, and other nearby attractions.
Walk or take a short taxi ride to explore Thamel, Patan Durbar Square, and other local neighborhoods.

Budget Breakdown:

Overall Tips and Recommendations:

Be prepared for crowds, noise, and chaos in Kathmandu.
Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting sacred sites.
Don’t forget to try some traditional Nepali tea and snacks throughout your journey!
Bring a power adapter for charging your devices (Type D).
Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events.