Family-Friendly Itinerary for Kathmandu

Embark on a 3-day family adventure in Kathmandu, Nepal, from Thursday, September 21, 2023. Immerse yourselves in the rich culture and history of this vibrant city while enjoying activities suitable for all ages. Below is a detailed itinerary for each day of your trip:

Thursday, September 21: Durbar Square

Start your day by visiting the historic Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the stunning architecture of ancient palaces, temples, and courtyards. In the morning, explore the Kumari Ghar, the home of the living goddess, Kumari. Afterward, head to the National Museum to learn about Nepal's history and view fascinating exhibits. In the afternoon, take a rickshaw ride around the square, visiting the Taleju Temple and the Hanuman Dhoka Palace. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Nepali dinner at a local restaurant.

• Durbar Square: Entrance Fee - NPR 1,000 (~$9) per person, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
• Kumari Ghar: Entrance Fee - NPR 100 (~$1) per person, Time Spent - 30 minutes
• National Museum: Entrance Fee - NPR 400 (~$4) per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Friday, September 22: Swayambhunath and Patan Durbar Square

Start your morning at Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple. Climb the stairs to reach the hilltop stupa adorned with prayer flags and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Explore the various shrines and temples surrounding the main stupa. In the afternoon, head to Patan Durbar Square, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the intricate architecture of the palaces, temples, and statues. Visit the Patan Museum to learn more about the city's rich cultural heritage. End the day with a relaxing walk along the Patan Durbar Square's lanes, filled with local shops and cafes.

• Swayambhunath: Entrance Fee - NPR 200 (~$2) per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Patan Durbar Square: Entrance Fee - NPR 500 (~$5) per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Patan Museum: Entrance Fee - NPR 250 (~$2.5) per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Saturday, September 23: Boudhanath and Garden of Dreams

Start your day at Boudhanath, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world. Take part in the morning prayer rituals and circumambulate the stupa with the locals. Enjoy a peaceful atmosphere and browse the shops selling Tibetan artifacts and handicrafts. In the afternoon, visit the Garden of Dreams, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. Relax amidst beautiful gardens, fountains, and pavilions. Let the kids play in the children's area while you savor a cup of tea. End your trip with a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant, enjoying panoramic views of the city.

• Boudhanath: No entrance fee, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Garden of Dreams: Entrance Fee - NPR 200 (~$2) per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, consider visiting the Changu Narayan Temple, located on a hilltop near Bhaktapur. This ancient Hindu temple showcases intricate carvings and offers lovely views of the surrounding countryside. Another hidden gem is the Chandragiri Hills, where you can take a cable car ride to the hilltop and enjoy panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley. Both attractions are family-friendly and provide unique experiences away from the crowds.

Check hotel and flight prices for Kathmandu here.