Kathmandu-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Thamel

  • Morning: Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Take a taxi or bus to your hotel in Thamel, a popular tourist area.
  • Afternoon: Visit the nearby Garden of Dreams, a serene oasis in the heart of the city. Explore the surrounding streets, filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Fire and Ice, a popular pizzeria serving delicious wood-fired pizzas.

Accommodation: Stay at Hotel Tibet International, a comfortable hotel with modern amenities.

Things to Know: Be prepared for crowds and chaos in Thamel, especially during peak season. Try to avoid traveling during festivals or holidays when possible.

Transportation: Taxis are readily available, but be sure to negotiate the fare beforehand. You can also hire a private car and driver for the day.

Tips: Exchange your currency at a local bank or money changer, as not all places accept credit cards. Be respectful of local customs and dress modestly when visiting temples or monasteries.

Day 2: Kathmandu City Tour

  • Morning: Visit Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world. Explore the surrounding area, filled with Tibetan shops and cafes.
  • Afternoon: Head to Pashupatinath Temple, a sacred Hindu temple and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be sure to dress modestly and respect local customs.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Kantipur Tandoori House, serving delicious Nepali cuisine.

Accommodation: Stay at Hotel Tibet International again, or consider upgrading to Hotel Shambala, a luxurious hotel with stunning views of the city.

Things to Know: Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular tourist sites. Consider hiring a guide to provide insight into the history and significance of each location.

Transportation: Take a taxi or hire a private car and driver for the day.

Tips: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Try to avoid eating street food, as it may not be safe for tourists.

Day 3: Day Trip to Bhaktapur

  • Morning: Take a bus or taxi to Bhaktapur, a historic city located about an hour outside of Kathmandu.
  • Afternoon: Explore the city’s Durbar Square, filled with ancient temples and palaces. Be sure to try some local pottery and handicrafts.
  • Evening: Return to Kathmandu and enjoy dinner at The Old House, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Nepali cuisine.

Accommodation: Stay at Hotel Tibet International again, or consider upgrading to Hotel Shambala.

Things to Know: Be respectful of local customs and traditions in Bhaktapur. Avoid taking pictures inside temples or of locals without permission.

Transportation: Take a bus or taxi from Kathmandu to Bhaktapur. Consider hiring a private car and driver for the day.

Tips: Bring snacks and water, as options may be limited in Bhaktapur. Try to avoid traveling during peak season when possible.

Day 4: Monkey Temple and Swayambhunath

  • Morning: Visit Swayambhunath Stupa, a stunning Buddhist temple located on a hill overlooking the city.
  • Afternoon: Head to Monkey Temple, a sacred Hindu temple filled with monkeys. Be sure to respect local customs and traditions.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at La Dolce Vita, a cozy Italian restaurant.

Accommodation: Stay at Hotel Tibet International again, or consider upgrading to Hotel Shambala.

Things to Know: Be prepared for steep climbs and uneven paths at Swayambhunath. Avoid feeding the monkeys at Monkey Temple.

Transportation: Take a taxi or hire a private car and driver for the day.

Tips: Bring comfortable shoes and clothing, as you’ll be doing some climbing and walking. Try to avoid traveling during peak season when possible.

Day 5: Departure

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring Thamel.
  • Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure flight.

Accommodation: Not applicable, as you’ll be departing today.

Things to Know: Be sure to check with your airline for any travel restrictions or requirements. Exchange any remaining Nepali currency before departing.

Transportation: Take a taxi or hire a private car and driver to the airport.

Tips: Bring snacks and water for your departure flight, as options may be limited at the airport. Try to avoid traveling during peak season when possible.

Remember to stay safe, respectful, and open-minded during your trip to Kathmandu!