5-Day Budget-Friendly Trip from India to Nepal: Discover Kathmandu and Bhaktapur

Day 1: Arrival and Sightseeing

Kathmandu, Nepal on May 3, 2025

9:00am

Flight from India to Kathmandu

Take an early flight to Kathmandu; flights from major Indian cities typically cost around 6000-8000 INR per person one way.

INR7000 per person approx, 2h0m

11:00am

Thamel area walk

Explore the vibrant Thamel neighborhood, famous for its shops, cafes, and vibrant atmosphere, perfect for your first introduction to Kathmandu.

Free, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at OR2K

Enjoy affordable Middle Eastern and vegetarian food at OR2K, open from 11am to 10pm, popular among travelers for good taste and budget-friendly pricing.

Approx INR500 for two, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)

Explore this ancient religious complex atop a hill, offering panoramic views of Kathmandu city, open from 6am to 6pm.

INR150 per person, 2h0m

5:00pm

Dinner at Thamel House Restaurant

Dine on authentic Nepali cuisine with great ambiance; open till 9:30pm, offering meals within budget.

Approx INR700 for two, 1h0m

View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Cultural Exploration

Kathmandu, Nepal on May 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cafe Mitra

Enjoy fresh bakery items and coffee at a local cafe open from 7am, offering a cozy environment.

Approx INR300 for two, 1h0m

9:30am

Patan Durbar Square

Visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing old palaces, temples, and intricate architecture, open from 9am to 5pm.

INR200 per person, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Café Soma

Treat yourself to a variety of delicious and affordable Nepalese and international dishes near Patan, open till 9pm.

Approx INR600 for two, 1h0m

2:30pm

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Explore the heart of Kathmandu with its historic palaces and temples, also a UNESCO site, open until 5pm.

INR200 per person, 2h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Bhojan Griha

Enjoy traditional Nepali set meals in a heritage mansion, open till 9:30pm; excellent value and atmosphere.

Approx INR800 for two, 1h0m

View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Heritage City Visit

Bhaktapur, Nepal on May 5, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel/local cafe

Start with a light breakfast before heading to Bhaktapur; many cafes offer typical Nepali breakfast foods and tea.

Approx INR250 for two, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Bhaktapur Palace Square

A 30-minute drive from Kathmandu to Bhaktapur, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and artisan shops.

INR600 approx taxi fare one way, 30m

9:30am

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Spend the morning admiring the 15th-century palaces, temples, and museums, open from 9am to 5pm, entrance fee applies.

INR200 per person, 4h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Café Nyatapola

Enjoy local dishes with a view of the famous Nyatapola Temple, nicely priced and open from 11am to 6pm.

Approx INR600 for two, 1h0m

2:45pm

Pottery Square

Watch local artisans at work and shop for authentic handicrafts in Bhaktapur's traditional pottery square.

Free to roam; shopping optional., 1h0m

4:00pm

Return to Kathmandu

Drive back to Kathmandu for dinner and rest.

Included in earlier taxi fare, 30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Roadhouse Café

Relax with international food and a friendly atmosphere in Kathmandu, open till 10pm with budget options.

Approx INR700 for two, 1h0m

View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Temples and Markets

Kathmandu, Nepal on May 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Village Café

Enjoy a mix of local and western breakfast dishes in a cozy setting, open from 7am.

Approx INR350 for two, 1h0m

9:30am

Pashupatinath Temple

Visit this sacred Hindu temple complex located on the banks of the Bagmati River, open from 4:00am to 7:00pm, free entrance for Hindus, small fee for foreigners.

INR200 per person, 2h0m