4-Day City Experiences Itinerary in Kathmandu (June 2023)

1. Day 1: Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)
   15 minutes from Tribhuvan International Airport

   In the morning, visit the magnificent Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as Monkey Temple, which is one of the most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Kathmandu. With beautiful architecture and stunning views of the city, it is a perfect introduction to the religious and cultural aspects of Kathmandu. Have lunch at The Cafe With No Name, a cozy and quirky restaurant known for its delicious food and friendly atmosphere. After that, visit the Durbar Square in the afternoon, which has many important temples, palaces and courtyards worth exploring. Finish the day with dinner at OR2K, an Israeli restaurant serving vegetarian and vegan food.

2. Day 2: Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa
   30 minutes (7.5 miles) from Swayambhunath Stupa

   Start the day by visiting the Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most important Hindu temples in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located on the banks of the Bagmati River. After that, visit the Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest stupas in the world and another UNESCO World Heritage site. Surrounding the stupa are many monasteries and shops selling Tibetan souvenirs and handicrafts. For lunch, head over to Thamel Chowk and try some delicious Nepalese cuisine at Nepali Chulo. In the evening, visit the Garden of Dreams, a serene and beautiful oasis in the midst of the bustling city. Have dinner at Bhojan Griha, a traditional Newari restaurant with live music and dance performances.

3. Day 3: Kathmandu Fun Park and Narayanhiti Palace Museum
   20 minutes (5.5 miles) from Boudhanath Stupa

   Start the day with some fun at the Kathmandu Fun Park, an amusement park with exciting rides and games for all ages. After that, visit the Narayanhiti Palace Museum, which was the royal palace of the Kingdom of Nepal until 2008. The museum showcases the history and culture of Nepal through its artifacts, paintings and photographs. Have lunch at Roadhouse Cafe, a popular restaurant known for its pizzas and pasta. In the evening, visit the Patan Durbar Square, another UNESCO World Heritage site, which has many impressive temples and palaces. For dinner, try some authentic Nepalese momos at the popular Bota Simply Mo:Mo in Patan.

4. Day 4: Changu Narayan Temple and Bhaktapur Durbar Square
   30 minutes (10 miles) from Narayanhiti Palace Museum

   Start the day by visiting the Changu Narayan Temple, one of the oldest Hindu temples in Nepal and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and has many beautiful carvings and statues. After that, head over to Bhaktapur Durbar Square, which was the royal palace of the Bhaktapur Kingdom. The square has many temples, pagodas and courtyards worth exploring. Have lunch at Cafe de Temple, a cozy cafe with a peaceful courtyard. In the evening, visit the Kathmandu Durbar Square, which was the royal palace of the Kingdom of Nepal until the 19th century. The square has many temples, palaces and museums that showcase the rich history and culture of Nepal. For dinner, try the delicious Newari cuisine at Honacha, a restaurant in Thamel.

Recommendations

If you have extra time, consider visiting the Kopan Monastery, the National Museum of Nepal, or the Chitwan National Park. For day trips, explore the ancient city of Bhaktapur, hike to the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, or go rafting in the Trishuli River. To maximize your fun, try some adventure activities like bungee jumping, paragliding or mountain biking.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) (2 hours, NRP 200)
• The Cafe With No Name (1 hour, NRP 500)
• Durbar Square (2 hours, NRP 1,000)
• OR2K (1 hour, NRP 1,000)
• Pashupatinath Temple (2 hours, NRP 1000)
• Boudhanath Stupa (2 hours, NRP 500)
• Nepali Chulo (1 hour, NRP 800)
• Garden of Dreams (1 hour, NRP 200)
• Bhojan Griha (2 hours, NRP 1,500)
• Kathmandu Fun Park (3 hours, NRP 1,500)
• Narayanhiti Palace Museum (2 hours, NRP 1,000)
• Roadhouse Cafe (1 hour, NRP 600)
• Patna Durbar Square (2 hours, NRP 1,000)
• Bota Simply Mo:Mo (1 hour, NRP 500)
• Changu Narayan Temple (2 hours, NRP 200)
• Bhaktapur Durbar Square (2 hours, NRP 1,200)
• Cafe de Temple (1 hour, NRP 500)
• Honacha (2 hours, NRP 1,500)
• Total Estimated Costs: NRP 12,200

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