5-Day Cultural Immersion Itinerary in Pashupatinath, November 2023

1. Day 1: Pashupatinath Temple
   7 minutes (1.5 miles) from Tribhuvan International Airport

   In the morning, visit the Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most sacred Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. See the silver-plated doors, gold-painted roof, and intricate carvings. Afternoon, explore the surrounding forests and river. See the Bagmati River and witness the Hindu cremation ceremonies. In the evening, attend the aarti ceremony, where lights are offered to the deities accompanied by traditional music.

2. Day 2: Patan Durbar Square
   30 minutes (5.3 miles) from Pashupatinath Temple

   Visit the Patan Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in the morning. Admire the Newa architecture, temples, palaces and courtyards. Afternoon, explore the nearby alleys and shops for traditional handicrafts. In the evening, attend a Newari cultural program.

3. Day 3: Boudhanath Stupa
   20 minutes (3.7 miles) from Patan Durbar Square

   Visit the Boudhanath Stupa in the morning, one of the largest stupas in the world. Observe the pilgrims walking around the stupa, spinning prayer wheels and chanting mantras. Afternoon, explore the nearby monasteries and shops selling Tibetan handicrafts. In the evening, attend a meditation session.

4. Day 4: Bhaktapur Durbar Square
   30 minutes (6.2 miles) from Boudhanath Stupa

   Visit the Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in the morning. This ancient city is known for its Newa architecture, temples, palaces and courtyards. Afternoon, explore the nearby pottery square and try your hand at pottery making. In the evening, attend a traditional Newari feast.

5. Day 5: Swayambhunath Stupa
   20 minutes (4.8 miles) from Bhaktapur Durbar Square

   Visit the Swayambhunath Stupa in the morning, also known as the Monkey Temple. Climb the steep stairs to reach the top of the hill and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Afternoon, explore the nearby monasteries and shops selling Buddhist handicrafts. In the evening, stroll around the Thamel neighborhood and buy souvenirs.

Recommendations

You can also visit the Narayanhiti Palace Museum, the former royal palace, and the Garden of Dreams, a neo-classical historical garden. For day trips, you can go hiking in the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park or visit the Changu Narayan Temple. To maximize your fun, try the local delicacies like momos and thukpa, and experience a rickshaw ride.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Pashupatinath Temple (2 hours, free)
• Patan Durbar Square (2 hours, NPR 1,000)
• Boudhanath Stupa (2 hours, NPR 250)
• Bhaktapur Durbar Square (2 hours, NPR 1,500)
• Swayambhunath Stupa (2 hours, NPR 200)
• Total Estimated Costs: NPR 3,450 (excluding accommodation and transportation)

Check https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo for hotel and flight prices.