One could spend years in Kathmandu and still keep discovering new alleys, courtyards and temples in the city every day. From the grandeur of the famed durbar squares, and tiny shrines hidden in unassuming gullies to towering hills that surround the Valley, the capital of Nepal packs a punch. Comprising three major cities, other smaller towns, and a national park, Kathmandu Valley offers epic hiking trails, a tantalizing gastronomic adventure, and an unavoidable cultural experience. While not all of it can be done in a day, we can share with you destinations that can be covered within 24 hours that will make your day tour in Kathmandu worthwhile.
5 Experiences to not miss during 24 hours in Kathmandu
A day in Kathmandu can easily be filled with visits to the six UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square and Bhaktapur Durbar Square; and that is what many people will tell you. But locals know that Kathmandu is so much more than that. Hence, we’ve handpicked 5 experiences (not all focused on Heritage Sites) that will give you a true taste of Kathmandu.
1. Hike to Swayambhunath
Swayambhunath or the self-risen one is a Buddhist white-dome stupa located on top of a lush hill in Kathmandu. Listed in UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the stupa is a one of the sacred sites for Buddhists from the Newar community of the valley. Adorned by colorful prayer flags, circumvented by prayer wheels and surrounded by multiple shrines, the temple complex has a divine aura that is amplified by aromatic incense, butter lamps and sights of devotees offering their prayers. Morning is the best time to visit this attraction, not only for the vibrant buzz that envelops the space but also for the stunning view of the valley from the top, and if really early, a glorious sunrise.
If you’d like, turn the visit into a short hike by taking the east-facing long stair up the hill. You will be accompanied by resident monkeys of the forest, joggers and locals on their daily ritual. If not, there is also a vehicular route that goes two-third of the way.
Time taken: An hour
2. Experience old Newa settlement in Kathmandu
Hidden behind the chaos of a busy, “modern-day” city of Kathmandu are the quiet baha:, nani, and chowk, where the old Kathmandu still resides. En route from your trip to Swayambhunath, take a leisurely stroll through the labyrinth of maze-like gullies of Kathmandu. There are unassuming, hidden communal courtyards and small squares dotted around the main durbar square. Find your way to Itumbahal, where once lived the prettiest girl in Newa folklore, and Janma dyo, a temple showcasing some of the finest wood craftsmanship in the city. Breathe in the aroma of spices and fresh herbs in Ason bazaar—the oldest market in Kathmandu, and if you’d like to, step inside a local mithai pasal to breakfast on a hot glass of sweet milk tea and maybe some jerry swari. If not, after a hunger-triggering walk, head to Varnabas for a much-deserved breakfast spread.
Time Taken : Two to Three Hours
3. Explore Patan Durbar Square
If you have time to explore just one durbar square in the valley, we’d suggest picking Patan Durbar Square. Although compact in size compared to Kathmandu and Bhaktapur Durbar Square, this one captures the essence of the new and the old world. The square is home to famous temples like Krishna Mandir and Bhimsen Mandir (foreigners are allowed to enter). Across from the latter is a magnificent water spout carved within the earth called Manga: Hiti. Adjacent is the former palace complex of Patan’s Malla kings. The sprawling complex is well-preserved and houses a museum that is worth a visit. The durbar square is also one of the liveliest featuring some swanky rooftop restaurants as well as traditional hole-in-the-wall eateries. You can mingle with locals or just soak in the vibe over a cup of tea or an ice lolly.
If you are visiting Patan during April or May, you can also experience the Rato Machhindranath Jatra , the longest running chariot festival in Nepal.
Time Taken: Three Hours
4. Live Tibet in Boudha
Next stop is Boudhanath, locally known as Khasti Mahachaitya, located on the northeastern edge of Kathmandu Valley. Believed to be built around 600 A.D. when Song Tsen Gampo, the Tibetan king, converted to Buddhism, it is a revered pilgrimage site in Tibetan Buddhism. Also a World Heritage site, its mammoth size of pure white dome is a sight to behold. The colorful prayer flags flutter in the air from its gilded spire while people circumvent the structure in clockwise direction on the ground. Within the stupa grounds are monasteries that are worth visiting. Surrounding the stupa and beyond are a myriad of antique stores and eateries. This is a great spot to pick up souvenirs and gifts for friends and family back home. If you are adventurous with food, we also recommend exploring Boudha’s Tibetan food scene and sampling some Keema noodles, laphing, paoz and T-momo amongst others. If not, pick a rooftop restaurant with a picturesque view of the stupa and the bustling complex to relax in.
Time Taken: Two to Three Hours
5. Enjoy the nightlife in Thamel
This may not be everybody’s cup of tea but if you are in Kathmandu, you cannot leave without a taste of Thamel. A neighborhood that is a backpacker’s paradise in the city, a local’s Friday night hub, and a trekker’s haven, Thamel has earned a reputation for itself. By day, its vibrant streets are illuminated by lights of stores selling trekking gears, souvenir gift shops, cashmere stores and what not. By evening, it is filled with party-goers headed for clubs, bars and pubs. It is a great place to just stroll through, perhaps get a beer or a cocktail at a nice bar, and meet travelers from around the world.
Time Taken : Thamel doesn’t sleep
Experience the heart of Kathmandu Valley with these five must-visit destinations, carefully selected for their cultural significance and proximity to each other. This curated itinerary balances exploration with rest, allowing you to immerse yourself in the city’s rich heritage without exhaustion.
Staying at Varnabas puts you at the center of it all. After each adventure, return to the comfort of your room for a refreshing shower, a rejuvenating power nap, or a delicious meal to recharge. Our convenient location means you’re always just moments away from your next discovery or a welcome respite.
