Explore the Ancient Streets of Kathmandu on a Half-Day Guided Tour of Bhaktapur

Kathmandu is home to a multitude of ancient Hindu and Buddhist temples, reflecting its rich cultural and religious heritage. Bhaktapur, in particular, is the perfect place to immerse yourself in Nepal’s rich culture. On a guided tour of Bhaktapur, you can explore the city’s narrow passage-ways, ancient temples, and bustling outdoor marketplaces, all in the span of half a day.

What is Bhaktapur?

Bhaktapur is a popular tourist destination located just 10 miles from Kathmandu. It is renowned for its extraordinarily preserved architecture and beautiful art pieces. The city was founded by King Ananda Malla in the 12th century and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. It was built as a collection of three small city-states and covers an area of about 7km2. Bhaktapur served as the capital of the Malla Dynasty from the 12th to the 15th century and during its height it was filled with grand temples, stylish courtyards, and colossal stone gateways, all surrounded by a conglomeration of narrow passageways and majestic open squares.

What Can You Expect on a Half-Day Guided Tour of Bhaktapur?

A guided tour of Bhaktapur is a great way to experience the ancient streets and take in the scenery of the city. On this tour you will explore the city’s narrow passageways, vibrant temples, and bustling durbar squares. Your guide will provide an entertaining narration about the importance and history of each site, helping you to understand the local culture.

The tour begins at the Durbar Square, which includes some of the city’s most important monuments and temples such as Nyatapola, Taleju Temple and Puja Paija Temple. You will be able to explore these monuments in more detail before continuing to explore some other sites.

Next, you’ll make your way to Pottery Square where visitors are invited to observe local potters at work. You can also visit one of Bhaktapur’s fantastic museums, where you can find out more about the history of the city and its culture.

The tour continues to Changu Narayan, an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu. This beautiful temple is decorated with intricate carvings that showcase legends from Hindu mythology. Afterward, you will visit Taumadhi Square and stroll through its historic streets before everything comes to an end when you return to Kathmandu.

Conclusion

Taking a half-day guided tour of Bhaktapur is by far one of the best ways to experience the best of what this amazing city has to offer. Having your own guide with you means you will get the most out of your time exploring the city’s narrow passageways, unique temples, and bazaars that are filled with locals selling souvenirs. It’s both convenient and fun, making it a great addition to your Kathmandu itinerary. To join this tour for yourself, simply book your tour with GetYourGuide.

Explore the Ancient Streets of Kathmandu on a Half-Day Guided Tour of Bhaktapur: FAQs

If you’re planning a trip to Nepal, visiting its ancient cities is a must-do. Kathmandu is one such city, which is known for its rich cultural and architectural heritage. One of the best ways to explore the city is by taking a half-day guided tour of Bhaktapur. In this post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about this tour.

1. What is Bhaktapur?

Bhaktapur, also known as Bhadgaon, is an ancient city located in the Kathmandu Valley. The city is known for its well-preserved historic architecture and cultural heritage. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a popular tourist destination in Nepal.

2. What can I expect from a half-day guided tour of Bhaktapur?

A half-day guided tour of Bhaktapur will take you through the ancient streets of the city. You’ll get to see some of the best-preserved historic architecture in Nepal, including temples, palaces, and courtyards. Some of the highlights of the tour include the Golden Gate, the Palace of 55 Windows, and the Nyatapola Temple. Your guide will give you a detailed history of each of these places, and you’ll get to learn about the rich cultural heritage of Nepal.

3. How long is the tour?

A half-day guided tour of Bhaktapur usually lasts for around 4 to 5 hours. The tour starts in the morning and ends in the early afternoon.

4. Is transportation provided?

Yes, transportation is usually provided as part of the tour package. You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Kathmandu and taken to Bhaktapur. The tour will end in Bhaktapur, and you’ll be dropped off at your hotel after the tour.

5. What is the cost of the tour?

The cost of the tour can vary depending on the tour operator and the season. However, on average, a half-day guided tour of Bhaktapur costs around USD 50 to USD 70 per person. This usually includes transportation, entrance fees, and the services of a knowledgeable guide.

6. What should I wear?

As Bhaktapur is a religious city, it’s important to dress modestly. You should wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. It’s also a good idea to wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.

7. Is the tour suitable for children?

Yes, the tour is suitable for children. However, it’s a walking tour, so children should be able to walk for a few hours. If you’re traveling with young children, it’s a good idea to bring a stroller or a carrier.

8. Can I take pictures during the tour?

Yes, you can take pictures during the tour. However, it’s important to respect the religious significance of the places you visit. Your guide will be able to advise you on the appropriate times and places to take pictures.

9. Do I need to bring anything with me?

It’s a good idea to bring a small bag with some essentials, such as water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat. You should also bring some cash for souvenirs and tips.

10. How do I book a half-day guided tour of Bhaktapur?

You can book a half-day guided tour of Bhaktapur online or through a local tour operator. It’s a good idea to read reviews and compare prices before you book. Make sure to book in advance, especially during peak tourist season.

Conclusion

Exploring the ancient streets of Kathmandu on a half-day guided tour of Bhaktapur is a great way to learn about the rich cultural heritage of Nepal. We hope that this post has answered some of your FAQs about the tour and has inspired you to visit this beautiful city. Remember to dress modestly, wear comfortable shoes, and bring along some essentials like water and snacks. Happy travels!