Kathmandu-4-day-itinerary

Kathmandu 4-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Thamel

  • Arrival: Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) and take a taxi or bus to your hotel in Thamel, the tourist hub of Kathmandu.
  • Hotel: Stay at Hotel Tibet International or similar, which offers comfortable rooms and a relaxing atmosphere.
  • Breakfast: Head to Fire and Ice Pizzeria for a delicious breakfast buffet with a variety of options.
  • Morning: Visit the nearby Garden of Dreams, a serene oasis in the heart of the city.
  • Afternoon: Explore Thamel’s narrow streets, alleys, and markets, where you can find everything from trekking gear to souvenirs.
  • Lunch: Try some traditional Nepali cuisine at Momo Hut.
  • Evening: Enjoy a sunset view of the Kathmandu Valley from the rooftop of your hotel or a nearby viewpoint.

Day 2: UNESCO World Heritage Sites

  • Morning: Visit Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world, and explore its surrounding Tibetan settlements.
  • Lunch: Head to St. Xavier’s School Road for a variety of restaurants serving international cuisine.
  • Afternoon: Explore Pashupatinath Temple, a sacred Hindu temple and cremation site, and witness the evening Aarti ceremony.
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Nepali dinner at Dwarika’s Hotel.

Day 3: Kathmandu Durbar Square and Patan

  • Morning: Visit Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring ancient temples, palaces, and markets.
  • Lunch: Try some local street food at the square or head to CafĂ© Mitra.
  • Afternoon: Explore Patan Durbar Square, a beautiful example of Newari architecture and craftsmanship.
  • Evening: Enjoy a relaxing evening at your hotel or explore Thamel’s nightlife.

Day 4: Bhaktapur and Departure

  • Morning: Visit Bhaktapur Durbar Square, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its well-preserved ancient architecture.
  • Lunch: Try some local cuisine at one of the many restaurants in Bhaktapur.
  • Afternoon: Return to Kathmandu and spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring any last-minute sights.
  • Evening: Depart from Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) with unforgettable memories of your trip to Kathmandu.

Things to Know

  • Visa: Obtain a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) or apply online in advance.
  • Currency: The Nepali Rupee (NPR) is the local currency, but USD and credit cards are widely accepted.
  • Language: Nepali is the official language, but English is widely spoken.
  • Culture: Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples and cultural sites.
  • Safety: Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas, and avoid traveling alone at night.

Transportation

  • Taxis: Available at the airport and throughout the city.
  • Buses: A convenient and affordable way to travel between cities.
  • Walking: Explore Thamel and other areas on foot to experience the local culture.

Tips

  • Negotiate: When shopping, negotiate prices politely and respectfully.
  • Respect: Remove your shoes when entering temples or homes, and dress modestly.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially in high altitudes.
  • Be Prepared: Pack layers for changing weather conditions, and bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.

Other Things of Interest

  • Trekking: Consider a guided trek to nearby destinations like Nagarkot or Dhulikhel for breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
  • Yoga and Wellness: Take advantage of Kathmandu’s numerous yoga studios and wellness centers.
  • Volunteering: Look into opportunities to volunteer at local organizations, such as schools or conservation projects.

This itinerary provides a mix of cultural experiences, historical landmarks, and delicious food, giving you a well-rounded taste of Kathmandu. Enjoy your trip!