Kathmandu

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Kathmandu's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Kathmandu's Temples
morning
:

Visit the iconic Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) for stunning panoramic views of the city. Enjoy a peaceful morning surrounded by monkeys and ancient statues.

afternoon
:

Head to the historic Durbar Square to see the beautiful temples and palaces. Grab lunch at a local eatery featuring Nepali cuisine.

evening
:

Wander the streets of Thamel to shop for souvenirs. Relax at a rooftop restaurant with views of the city as the sun sets.

day 2
Adventure in Nagarkot
morning
:

Take an early morning drive to Nagarkot to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas. Enjoy breakfast at a local lodge with a mountain backdrop.

afternoon
:

Explore the scenic trails around Nagarkot, taking in the natural beauty and fresh air. Visit local villages and interact with friendly locals.

evening
:

Return to Kathmandu and enjoy a traditional Nepali dinner. Spend a leisurely evening reflecting on your day of adventure.

day 3
Cultural Immersion in Bhaktapur
morning
:

Travel to Bhaktapur, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and roam the medieval streets. Visit the 55-Window Palace and Tachupal Tole.

afternoon
:

Sampling local specialties like King Curd (juju dhau) in Bhaktapur will tantalize your taste buds. Join a pottery class to learn traditional crafts.

evening
:

Catch the vibrant sunset over Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Head back to Kathmandu and enjoy a quiet evening at your hotel or a local café.

day 4
Scenic Trip to Pokhara
morning
:

Catch an early flight or bus to Pokhara, renowned for its stunning lakes and mountain views. Arrive and enjoy breakfast by Phewa Lake.

afternoon
:

Engage in adventure sports like paragliding or visit the nearby World Peace Pagoda. Take a boat ride on the lake for a serene experience.

evening
:

Stroll along the lakeside promenade, soaking in the beautiful scenery. Dine at a lakeside restaurant with a view of the Annapurna massif.

day 5
Spiritual Journey in Lumbini
morning
:

Travel to Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, early in the morning. Explore the sacred gardens and the Maya Devi Temple.

afternoon
:

Visit various monasteries built by different countries that reflect their cultural heritage. Enjoy a simple yet fulfilling lunch in the area.

evening
:

Take a peaceful walk in the gardens, reflecting on the teachings of Buddha. Return to Kathmandu for a leisurely evening at your hotel.

day 6
Hiking the Shivapuri Trail
morning
:

Start your day with a hike in the Shivapuri National Park. Enjoy the fresh air and view the diverse flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Reach the Nagi Gompa and have lunch at the monastery. Spend some time meditating or enjoying the serene surroundings.

evening
:

Return to Kathmandu and unwind at a local café. Reflect on the day's nature explorations over dinner.

day 7
Biking Adventure in Kathmandu Valley
morning
:

Rent a bicycle and explore the backroads of Kathmandu Valley. Visit rural villages and experience local life firsthand.

afternoon
:

Stop for lunch at a local eatery, enjoying home-cooked Nepali food. Continue biking to see the natural beauty of the valley.

evening
:

Return to Kathmandu and enjoy a celebratory dinner at a popular restaurant. Share stories of your biking adventures with fellow travelers.

day 8
Culinary Tour of Nepalese Cuisine
morning
:

Start the day with a cooking class focusing on traditional Nepali dishes. Learn to prepare popular foods like momo and dal bhat.

afternoon
:

Enjoy the fruits of your labor with lunch that you cooked yourself. Visit a local market for a deeper understanding of Nepali ingredients.

evening
:

Join a food tour to sample local street food and desserts in different neighborhoods. Experience the vibrant culinary landscape of Kathmandu.

day 9
Art and Craft Workshop in Patan
morning
:

Head to Patan, known for its rich artistic heritage, and visit the Patan Museum. Explore exhibits showcasing traditional Nepalese art.

afternoon
:

Participate in an art or craft workshop where you can learn traditional techniques. Enjoy lunch in one of the historic squares.

evening
:

Stroll through the artisan quarters of Patan and shop for handmade crafts. Dine in a local restaurant experiencing the fusion of art and cuisine.

day 10
Nightlife in Kathmandu
morning
:

Take a leisurely morning stroll in the Garden of Dreams to enjoy its serene ambiance. Have a relaxed breakfast at the garden café.

afternoon
:

Spend the day exploring local galleries and shops in Thamel. Visit museums to learn about Nepal's rich culture and history.

evening
:

Experience Kathmandu's nightlife by visiting lively bars and enjoying live music. Savor a night of fun and friendship in this vibrant city.

Discover Kathmandu

Read more in our Kathmandu 2024 Travel Guide.

Kathmandu Travel Guide