Kathmandu-7-day-itinerary

Kathmandu 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Acclimatization

  • Morning: Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) and take a taxi or bus to your hotel in Thamel, the tourist hub of Kathmandu.
  • Afternoon: Visit the nearby Garden of Dreams, a serene oasis in the heart of the city. Explore the surrounding streets, get a feel for the local culture, and try some street food.
  • Evening: Head to Freak Street (also known as Jhochhen) for dinner and drinks. This iconic street is lined with restaurants, bars, and shops selling everything from trekking gear to souvenirs.

Where to Stay: Hotel Tibet International or similar

Tips:

  • Exchange currency at the airport or a local bank. Nepalese Rupee (NPR) is the local currency.
  • Be prepared for crowds and chaos in Thamel, especially during peak season.
  • Try some local snacks like momos (dumplings) or sel roti (sweet rice doughnut).

Day 2: Kathmandu’s Heritage

  • Morning: Visit Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world. Take a stroll around the stupa and observe the Tibetan monks and locals going about their daily prayers.
  • Afternoon: Head to Pashupatinath Temple, a sacred Hindu temple and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the temple complex, which includes several smaller shrines and statues.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Bawarchi, a popular restaurant serving Nepalese cuisine.

Things to Know:

  • Dress modestly when visiting temples and stupas. Remove your shoes before entering.
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Day 3: Durbar Squares and Palaces

  • Morning: Visit Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring ancient palaces, temples, and courtyards. Explore the square, including the Kumari Chowk (Living Goddess Temple) and the old palace.
  • Afternoon: Head to Patan Durbar Square, another historic square with stunning architecture and beautiful courtyards.
  • Evening: Try some traditional Nepalese cuisine at Thakali Kitchen.

Transportation:

  • Use local buses or taxis to get around the city. They’re affordable and widely available.
  • Consider hiring a private car and driver for the day if you prefer a more comfortable ride.

Day 4: Explore Bhaktapur

  • Morning: Take a short drive (about 30 minutes) to Bhaktapur, a medieval town with stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage. Visit the Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Afternoon: Explore the town’s narrow streets, temples, and courtyards. Try some local pottery or woodcarvings.
  • Evening: Return to Kathmandu and enjoy dinner at The Old House, a cozy restaurant serving Nepalese and international cuisine.

Tips:

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around Bhaktapur’s cobblestone streets.
  • Be prepared for crowds and chaos in the town’s narrow alleys.

Day 5: Nagarkot and Hiking

  • Morning: Take an early morning drive (about 1.5 hours) to Nagarkot, a scenic hill station with breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Watch the sunrise over the mountains.
  • Afternoon: Go for a hike in the surrounding hills, offering stunning views of the valley below. You can also visit the Nagarkot View Tower.
  • Evening: Return to Kathmandu and enjoy dinner at Momo Hut, a popular spot for momos (dumplings).

Things to Know:

  • Be prepared for an early morning wake-up call to catch the sunrise.
  • Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring water, snacks, and sunscreen.

Day 6: Monasteries and Art

  • Morning: Visit Swayambhunath Stupa, a sacred Buddhist site with stunning views of the city. Explore the surrounding monastery and art galleries.
  • Afternoon: Head to the Nepal Art Council, which showcases local artwork, including paintings, sculptures, and crafts.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at La Dolce Vita, an Italian restaurant with a cozy atmosphere.

Tips:

  • Be respectful of the monastic community and remove your shoes before entering the monastery.
  • Consider purchasing some local art or handicrafts to support the artists.

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring Thamel’s streets one last time.
  • Afternoon: Depart for Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) and your onward journey.

Things to Know:

  • Check with your airline for any luggage restrictions or requirements before departing.
  • Exchange any remaining Nepalese Rupees back to your preferred currency at the airport.

I hope you enjoy your trip to Kathmandu!