Kathmandu, Nepal 3-Day Itinerary - August 9-11, 2023

Wednesday, August 9: Exploring Kathmandu's Cultural Heritage

Start your trip by immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Kathmandu. In the morning, visit the iconic Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, which offers spectacular views of the city. Explore the intricate architecture and Buddhist symbolism of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In the afternoon, head to Durbar Square, a complex of palaces, temples, and courtyards. Marvel at the stunning craftsmanship of ancient temples like Taleju Temple and Kumari Ghar, where you might catch a glimpse of the living goddess, Kumari.

As the evening sets in, make your way to Thamel, a vibrant neighborhood known for its bustling streets filled with shops, restaurants, and bars. Enjoy traditional Nepali cuisine and soak in the lively atmosphere of this popular tourist hub.

• Swayambhunath Stupa: Estimated cost - NPR 200, Time spent - 2 hours
• Durbar Square: Estimated cost - NPR 1,000, Time spent - 3 hours
• Thamel: Cost varies, Time spent - Evening

Restaurants

• Café Coffee Day: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Café Coffee Day, known for its freshly brewed coffee and delicious breakfast platters. The average cost for a meal is about 500 NPR per person.
• Northfield Café: For lunch, head to Northfield Café, a popular eatery offering a variety of international cuisines including Mexican, Italian, and Thai. The average cost for a meal is about 800 NPR per person.
• Kaiser Cafe: Indulge in a delightful dinner experience at Kaiser Cafe, which offers a blend of Nepali and European dishes in a cozy setting. The average cost for a meal is about 1,200 NPR per person.

Thursday, August 10: Spiritual Journey and Natural Beauty

Embark on a spiritual journey as you explore the sacred sites of Kathmandu. Start your morning with a visit to the famous Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most important Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Observe the cremation rituals along the Bagmati River and immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance.

In the afternoon, venture to the serene and picturesque Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world. Take a leisurely walk around the stupa, spin the prayer wheels, and observe the Tibetan Buddhist community in their daily practices.

As the day progresses, make your way to the outskirts of Kathmandu to visit the stunning Chandragiri Hills. Take a cable car ride to the top and enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas and the city below. Capture the breathtaking sunset before descending back to the city.

• Pashupatinath Temple: Estimated cost - NPR 1,000, Time spent - 2 hours
• Boudhanath Stupa: Estimated cost - NPR 400, Time spent - 2 hours
• Chandragiri Hills: Estimated cost - NPR 800, Time spent - Evening

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to The Old House Restaurant and Cafe for a delicious spread of traditional Nepali breakfast options. The average cost for a meal is about 500 NPR per person.
• For lunch, try the popular Bhojan Griha Restaurant which offers an authentic Newari cuisine experience. Enjoy their set lunch menu which includes a variety of flavorful dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 1000 NPR per person.
• For dinner, visit the enchanting Garden of Dreams Restaurant located within the beautiful Garden of Dreams. Indulge in a selection of mouthwatering international dishes in a peaceful garden setting. The average cost for a meal is about 1500 NPR per person.

Friday, August 11: Cultural Immersion and Souvenir Shopping

Immerse yourself further in the rich cultural heritage of Kathmandu on your final day. Begin by visiting the magnificent Kathmandu Durbar Square, home to the old royal palace and several temples. Admire the intricate woodwork and pagoda-style architecture of sites like Hanuman Dhoka and the Kumari Bahal.

Later, explore the hidden gem of Patan Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the city of Lalitpur. Discover the ancient temples, palaces, and courtyards that showcase Newa architecture. Don't miss the chance to visit the Patan Museum, which houses a remarkable collection of traditional art and artifacts.

In the afternoon, wander through the bustling streets of Asan Bazaar, a vibrant local market. Indulge in some souvenir shopping and pick up traditional handicrafts, spices, and intricate Thangka paintings to take a piece of Nepal's culture back home.

• Kathmandu Durbar Square: Estimated cost - NPR 1,000, Time spent - 2 hours
• Patan Durbar Square: Estimated cost - NPR 1,000, Time spent - 2 hours
• Asan Bazaar: Cost varies, Time spent - Afternoon

Restaurants

• Nani's Cafe: Start your day with a hearty Nepali breakfast at Nani's Cafe, located just a short walk from Asan Bazaar. Indulge in delicious traditional dishes like sel roti, samosa, and aloo dum. The average cost for a breakfast meal is about $5 per person.
• Nepali Chulo: For lunch, head to Nepali Chulo, a restaurant known for its authentic Nepali cuisine. Enjoy a variety of traditional dishes like momo, dal bhat, and gundruk soup. The average cost for a lunch meal is about $10 per person.
• Kaiser Cafe: End your day with a delightful dinner at Kaiser Cafe, a popular restaurant in Kathmandu. This cozy eatery offers a range of international and Nepali dishes, including wood-fired pizzas and traditional Newari food. The average cost for a dinner meal is about $15 per person.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Apart from the popular tourist attractions, Kathmandu has some hidden gems and local favorites worth exploring. Take a detour to Kirtipur, a medieval town located southwest of Kathmandu. Explore its narrow lanes, ancient temples, and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the Kirtipur Hill.

For a taste of authentic local cuisine, head to Boudha Stupa and try momo, a popular Nepali dumpling, from one of the many street food stalls in the area. Don't forget to try Newari delicacies like Choila and Bara in the traditional Newari restaurants of Patan.

If you're interested in spirituality and meditation, consider visiting one of the numerous monasteries in Kathmandu. Kopan Monastery and Neydo Monastery offer serene environments for meditation and learning about Buddhism.

For checking hotel and flight prices, you can visit Kayak.com.