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Discovering Kathmandu with Family-Friendly Itinerary

  1. Day 1: Swayambhunath Stupa
    15 minutes (3.2 km) from Tribhuvan International Airport

    Begin your day with a visit to the Swayambhunath Stupa also known as the Monkey Temple for the monkeys that reside there. This ancient religious site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers panoramic views of the city. Afternoon, explore the nearby old town of Kathmandu with its narrow streets and local markets selling handicrafts, pashmina and spices. In the evening, experience the vibrant nightlife at Thamel with its live music and street performances.

  2. Day 2: Kathmandu Durbar Square
    20 minutes (4.5 km) from Swayambhunath Stupa

    Visit the Kathmandu Durbar Square a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which used to be the residence of the Nepali royals in ancient times. Afternoon, take a family-friendly cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Nepali cuisine. In the evening, watch a traditional Nepali dance performance at the Mandala Theatre in Anamnagar.

  3. Day 3: Pashupatinath Temple
    30 minutes (8.5 km) from Kathmandu Durbar Square

    Head to the Pashupatinath Temple, a sacred Hindu temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Take a guided tour to learn about the significance of this temple and its rituals. Afternoon, enjoy a family picnic at the Royal Botanical Garden which has over 200 species of plants, trees and flowers. In the evening, catch a movie at the QFX Cinemas in Jhamsikhel.

  4. Day 4: Boudhanath Stupa
    45 minutes (11.5 km) from Pashupatinath Temple

    Start your day with a visit to the Boudhanath Stupa, which is one of the largest stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the markets around the stupa selling Tibetan handicrafts and souvenirs. Afternoon, visit the Kathmandu Fun Valley for a day of family fun, with its water park, amusement rides and go-karting. In the evening, enjoy an authentic Nepali meal at the Krishnarpan Restaurant in Dwarika's Hotel.

  5. Day 5: Bhaktapur Durbar Square
    60 minutes (14.5 km) from Boudhanath Stupa

    End your trip with a visit to the Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a well-preserved ancient city in Kathmandu valley. Walk around the square to admire the temples, palaces and courtyards. Afternoon, take a pottery class and create your own souvenir to take home. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll around the Garden of Dreams, a neo-classical fantasy garden in the heart of Thamel.

Recommendations

If you have time, you can also visit the Patan Durbar Square and the Changu Narayan Temple which are other UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Kathmandu valley. For a side trip, consider a trek to the Nagarkot hill station to enjoy the views of the Himalayan mountain range. To maximize your fun, try the thrilling adventure activities such as bungee jumping, paragliding, and mountain biking. Lastly, don't forget to try the momos (a type of dumpling) which are a popular Nepali snack!

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Swayambhunath Stupa (2 hours, free)
  • Kathmandu Durbar Square (2 hours, NPR 1000)
  • Pashupatinath Temple (2 hours, NPR 1000)
  • Boudhanath Stupa (2 hours, NPR 500)
  • Bhaktapur Durbar Square (2 hours, NPR 1500)
  • Cooking class (2.5 hours, NPR 3000)
  • Mandala Theatre (2 hours, NPR 500)
  • Royal Botanical Garden (3 hours, NPR 500)
  • Kathmandu Fun Valley (4 hours, NPR 2000)
  • Krishnarpan Restaurant (2 hours, NPR 5000)
  • Pottery class (2 hours, NPR 2000)
  • Garden of Dreams (1.5 hours, NPR 200)
  • Total Estimated Costs: NPR 17800
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