Things To Do
in Panauti
Panauti is a centuries-old Newar town in Kavrepalanchok District just southeast of Kathmandu. It is renowned for its intact traditional architecture, stone-paved streets, and a tranquil riverside setting along the Indrawati River. The town blends religious landmarks, vibrant markets, and a slower pace that invites careful exploration.
Visitors can easily combine cultural immersion with day trips to nearby hills for panoramic views.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your morning by visiting the revered Indreshwar Mahadev Temple, where you can admire its intricate wood carvings and historical significance. Take a leisurely stroll around the temple complex, soaking in the serene atmosphere as locals engage in their morning rituals. Enjoy a traditional Nepali breakfast at a nearby café, savoring the local flavors.
Spend your afternoon wandering through the narrow streets of Panauti, discovering hidden gems like the Brahmayani Temple and the quaint Newari architecture that adorns the town. Engage with local artisans and witness the age-old craftsmanship of pottery and weaving. Pause for lunch at a local eatery, where you can enjoy dishes prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
As dusk falls, visit the Panauti River to witness the beautiful sunset reflecting on the water. Join the locals for an evening puja ceremony, immersing yourself in the spiritual culture of the area. Wind down your day by enjoying a warm cup of ginger tea at a riverside café, listening to tales from locals about the history of Panauti.
Kick off the day with an early morning trek towards the nearby hills, where you’ll be greeted by stunning panoramic views of the valley and surrounding mountains. The fresh mountain air invigorates your senses as you hike through lush greenery and charming terraced fields. Stop at a viewpoints to enjoy a packed breakfast while observing the vibrant local flora and fauna.
After your trek, descend back to Panauti and enjoy a leisurely lunch featuring hearty Nepali dishes like dal bhat and tarkari. Post-lunch, visit the local market to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, filled with colorful textiles and fresh produce. Engage with locals who are eager to share their stories and traditional crafts.
As the sun sets, take a peaceful walk along the banks of the river, listening to the gentle flow of water and the calls of evening birds. Find a cozy spot for dinner at a local restaurant, where you can dive into more regional delicacies while reflecting on the day’s adventures. End your evening by sharing stories with fellow travelers or locals, creating lasting memories.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🥤Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.50-1 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance) | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and approachable locals
- Compact town easy to explore on foot
- Excellent Newar cuisine and roadside snacks
- Accessible day trips to Namobuddha and Dhulikhel
- Photogenic temples and riverfront scenes
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
- Occasional crowding during festivals
- Some roads can be rough or dusty
- Smaller towns may have limited medical facilities
- Seasonal monsoon can affect trekking plans
- "Namaste" - Hello / Good day
- "Kripya" - Please
- "Dhanyabad" - Thank you
- "Tapai English boulnuhunchha?" - Do you speak English?
- "Yo ko dam kati ho?" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Panauti
Visit one of these nice places.
An iconic cluster of temples and centuries-old brick-and-stone architecture ideal for capture in morning light.
Narrow alleys lined with ornate wooden windows and carved balconies that reflect Newari craftsmanship.
A historic bridge offering framing opportunities at sunrise and sunset.
Quiet riverbank scenes with local worshippers and misty mornings.
Food in Panauti
Panauti Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
The Nepali staple of rice, lentil soup, vegetable curry, and accompaniments; found in most guesthouses and local eateries around the Old Town.
Must-Try!
Steamed dumplings filled with meat or vegetables; widely available in street stalls and teahouses.
Fermented leafy greens soup, a traditional starter or light meal in Newari restaurants.
A sweet, ring-shaped fried bread often enjoyed at markets or special occasions; look for it in morning stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market lanes with spice stalls, fresh produce, dal bhat joints, and street snacks.
Local vendors selling steamed dumplings, fried snacks, and sweet treats along the main thoroughfare.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered; remove shoes where required.
Ask for permission when photographing people; avoid taking pictures inside certain temples without consent.
A respectful greeting is essential; a simple Namaste with folded hands is common.
Bargaining is common in markets but do so politely; offer a fair price and smile.
Safety
Tipping in Panauti
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 5–10% in nicer restaurants if service isn’t included. In most small eateries and markets, cash is preferred; many places in Panauti accept NPR, and some larger spots may take cards. ATMs are common in town centers; carry local cash for small vendors and street stalls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect warm days with highs around the 25–30°C range; occasional short thunderstorms; carry water and a light layer for cooler evenings.
Heavy rains from June to September; humidity is high; carry rain gear and waterproof bags; some trails can be slippery.
Post-monsoon season (Sept–Nov) brings clear skies, excellent views, and comfortable temperatures for outdoor exploring.
Cool to chilly mornings and evenings, with temperatures often in the 5–15°C range; fog may affect visibility early mornings.
Panauti at Night
Hiking in Panauti
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular short hike to the Namobuddha monastery area with panoramic hill views.
Short day hikes offering expansive mountain views on clear days and opportunities to observe village life.
Airports
How to reach Panauti by plane.
Kathmandu’s main international gateway; typically 60–90 minutes by road from Panauti, depending on traffic.
Regional airport serving domestic flights; a longer drive from Panauti but useful if combining with a Pokhara visit.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The historic backbone of Panauti, known for craftsmanship, temples, and traditional cuisine.
Religious life centers around temples and monasteries with annual festivals.
A mix of families, shopkeepers, and a growing number of domestic and international visitors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in schools and local neighborhoods; casual matches are common in parks.
Gaining traction in open spaces and school grounds.
Played in community centers and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Panauti.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; clearly labeled dishes in most restaurants; ask for dal bhat with tarkari.
Many dal bhat-based dishes are vegan; request no ghee or dairy and confirm stock of dairy-free options.
Rice is the staple; request rice with lentil curry and vegetables; avoid noodles and wheat-based items.