From Kathmandu: Patan and Bhaktapur Sightseeing Tour – A Must-Try Experience!

If you are planning a trip to Kathmandu and want to experience its culture and traditions, signing up for the Patan and Bhaktapur Sightseeing Tour should be on top of your list. This tour is an excellent way to explore the best of traditional Nepalese architecture, ancient temples, and historical landmarks. In this blog post, we will answer some of the most common questions that tourists visiting Kathmandu have, and why you should consider taking this tour.

What is the From Kathmandu: Patan and Bhaktapur Sightseeing Tour?

The From Kathmandu: Patan and Bhaktapur Sightseeing Tour is a city motorized tour in Nepal. It is a fantastic opportunity to explore the ancient cities of Patan and Bhaktapur and immerse yourself in their rich culture and history. The tour begins at your hotel, where you will be picked up by a comfortable and air-conditioned vehicle. The tour lasts around five hours, during which you will explore these two cities and some of the nearby cultural landmarks.

What Can You Expect on this Tour?

With this tour, you can expect a fair share of astounding architecture, mysterious temples, and religious sites. As you begin your journey, you will encounter Durbar Square in Bhaktapur. The square is home to some of the oldest religious temples, monuments, and shrines. The 55-window palace, Vatsala Temple, and Nyatapola Temple are some of the iconic sites that you will get a chance to see.

The tour will then proceed to Patan Durbar Square. A chance to admire the exquisite architecture and ornate carvings of this landmark is an opportunity not to be missed. The square is home to some imported landmarks such as the Taleju Temple, Krishna Temple, Bhimsen Temple, Manga Hiti, and Vishwanath Temple.

What is the Cost of the Tour and What’s Included?

The From Kathmandu: Patan and Bhaktapur Sightseeing Tour costs as little as 58 USD per person. It’s a great value, given this tour is operated by trusted local partners and boasts a one-of-a-kind experience of nature, history, and traditions. The package includes vehicle transportation, knowledgeable and experienced local guides, and all the necessary entrance fees.

Why Should You Take the Patan and Bhaktapur Sightseeing Tour?

The Patan and Bhaktapur Sightseeing Tour is an excellent opportunity for visitors to experience Nepal’s rich cultural heritage. It is a great way to learn about the country’s architecture, history, customs, and traditions. The tour also allows you to interact with locals and to explore the two UNESCO world heritage sites, which are the Patan Durbar Square and the Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Plus, with an experienced guide, visitors can learn the importance of the various temples, palaces, shrines — helping them take in the culture with a deeper understanding.

How to Book Your Patan and Bhaktapur Sightseeing Tour?

It is effortless to book your Patan and Bhaktapur Sightseeing Tour through GetYourGuide. Simply visit the website and make your booking using this link https://www.getyourguide.com/activity/-t230207?partner_id=UWJ1LS2. The tour operates daily and is available all year round, so you should have no trouble picking a date that works for you.

Final Thoughts

The Patan and Bhaktapur Sightseeing Tour is an excellent way to explore Nepal’s rich folklore, customs, and architectural traditions. After getting a guided tour through the ancient cities, you’ll find there is so much to take in that you’d want to consider booking this tour at least twice. Plus, during a time where social distancing and smaller groups are strongly encouraged, this tour offers a personalized experience for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts or basically anyone that’s just curious to explore. Don’t miss out on this remarkable opportunity! Book your tour now and let the adventure begin!

Insider’s Guide to Nepal’s Cultural Capitals: Patan and Bhaktapur

Nepal is a country steeped in rich culture, history, and tradition. The Kathmandu Valley, in particular, is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites and is an excellent destination for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the local culture and soak up the charm of the city’s ancient architecture. While Kathmandu is undoubtedly the most popular destination in the valley, nearby cities like Patan and Bhaktapur offer a more intimate and authentic look into Nepalese culture. In this insider’s guide, we explore the best hidden gems, cultural experiences, and dining spots these beautiful cities have to offer.

Discovering Hidden Gems in Patan and Bhaktapur

While a visit to the Durbar Square in both cities is a must, there are a plethora of lesser-known gems that deserve their fair share of attention. In Patan, the Kwa Bahal complex is a visual treat and a peaceful respite from the bustling city. The complex consists of a beautiful courtyard flanked by a gilded temple and a stunning red-brick monastery with intricate carvings. For an off-the-beaten-path experience, head to the Yampi Bahal temple complex in Bhaktapur. These century-old temples were created by local Newari craftsmen and feature impressive woodwork and detailed carvings.

Exploring the Food and Drink Scene in Patan and Bhaktapur

The cuisine in this region of Nepal is heavily influenced by Newari traditions and is nothing short of delicious. One of the best places to experience local Newari cuisine in Patan is at the Newa Lahana Guest House. This unassuming family-owned restaurant serves up authentic and flavorful Newari cuisine in a cozy and laid-back atmosphere. In Bhaktapur, try the famous Juju Dhau, a creamy yogurt-based dessert that has been a local favorite for centuries. You can enjoy it at many street-side stalls, but our favorite is at the Bhaktapur Juju Dhau Pasal – a tiny shop specializing in this sweet treat and nothing else.

Immersing Yourself in the Local Culture

Nepal is a melting pot of different ethnicities and religions, and the Kathmandu Valley is the perfect place to experience the country’s vibrant cultural scene. The Nepali New Year, known as Bisket Jatra, is a festive and colorful celebration that takes place in both Patan and Bhaktapur. This multi-day event features street parades, music, and dancing, culminating in a raucous tug-of-war competition. Another great way to experience the local culture is by attending a traditional Newari music and dance performance. Several venues in both cities host nightly shows, including the Patan Museum and the Siddha Pokhari in Bhaktapur.

Discovering the Fascinating History of Patan and Bhaktapur

Both Patan and Bhaktapur have a fascinating past, rich with stories of art, architecture, and spiritual practices. A popular legend states that the Ashoka Stupa in Patan was built way back in the 3rd century BC, making it one of the oldest structures in Nepal. In Bhaktapur, the Nyatapola Temple is a towering five-story structure that took over 100 years to complete. Its architecture is a testament to the skills of the local craftsmen that built it over 500 years ago.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures in Patan and Bhaktapur

For those willing to venture out of the city, there are several exciting options. Take a scenic hike to the Sanga Mahadev temple located on a hilltop overlooking the valley. The temple is a popular spiritual destination for locals and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery. Alternatively, take a day trip to the Chitwan National Park, home to Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinos, and crocodiles. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and also has plenty of adventure activities such as jungle treks and elephant safaris.

In conclusion, Patan and Bhaktapur are must-visit destinations for travelers looking for an immersive cultural experience. These two cities have more than just hidden gems and fascinating history – they offer a unique opportunity to indulge in the local food, music, and customs. With this insider’s guide, you now have the knowledge to plan an unforgettable trip to Nepal’s cultural capitals.