How to Plan Your Kathmandu: Patan and Bhaktapur Sightseeing Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Kathmandu, one must-do activity is visiting the historical sites of Patan and Bhaktapur. These ancient kingdoms offer a rich cultural heritage filled with history and culture for visitors to explore. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about planning your Patan and Bhaktapur Sightseeing Tour.

Experience and Highlights

Embark on a 6-hour tour of Patan and Bhaktapur to discover the rich cultural heritage of two separate kingdoms from early times. These medieval cities are filled with age-old palaces, temples, shrines, monasteries, and courtyards. They both offer extensive historical centers and boast otherworldly views and are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The tour starts with a visit to Patan Durbar Square, the main attraction, and a bustling square with a museum, palaces, Hindu temples, and ancient courtyards. As you explore the square, you’ll discover the intricately carved facades and ornate decorations on the buildings offering a glimpse into the past glory of the Malla kings.

The next stop is Bhaktapur, located about 12 km from Kathmandu city, which has retained its medieval spirit and is often referred to as the “City of Devotees.” Here you’ll get the opportunity to explore its bustling streets and alleys lined with colorful shops and restaurants offering traditional Nepali delicacies. The unique architecture and well-preserved Newari culture in Bhaktapur will take your breath away.

During the tour, you’ll also get to discover fascinating museums and courtyards with unique attractions. The knowledgeable guide will provide a wealth of information on the history of the cities and the cultural significance of each site you visit.

What’s included in the tour

• Pick up and drop off from your hotel in Kathmandu
• An English-speaking guide
• Entrance fees to Patan Durbar Square and Bhaktapur
• A private air-conditioned vehicle for transportation

How to book the tour

To book this tour, head over to the GetYourGuide website and select the date and number of attendees. The tour operates every day and starts at 10:00 am.

What to bring on the tour

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sunscreen and a hat
• A camera to capture the breathtaking views
• A small backpack to carry your essentials

Conclusion

The Patan and Bhaktapur Sightseeing Tour is the perfect opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of these ancient kingdoms. The tour provides an insightful experience into the history, architecture, and culture of the cities. Booking the tour is simple, and everything you need to experience the tour in comfort is included. Therefore, don’t miss out on this excellent opportunity to learn about the ancient cultures and traditions of Nepal.

Insider’s Guide to Kathmandu, Nepal: Patan and Bhaktapur Sightseeing Tour

Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is a vibrant and culturally rich city, located in the Himalayan Mountains. It is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the three Durbar Squares of Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur. Planning a Kathmandu tour is a fantastic experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide that will help you plan a sightseeing tour of Patan and Bhaktapur, two cities that are worth visiting while in Kathmandu.

Local Attractions

Patan Durbar Square

Patan Durbar Square is located in the city of Patan and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is an epitome of Newari architecture and has several pagoda-style temples such as Krishna Mandir, Bhimsen Temple, and Taleju Bhawani Temple. The square also features a museum that houses ancient artifacts, bronze statues, and traditional paintings.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Bhaktapur Durbar Square is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is known for its 55 Window Palace, Golden Gate, and Nyatapola Temple. The plaza is bustling with life, with several small shops selling souvenirs, street food, and handmade pottery.

Changu Narayan Temple

Changu Narayan Temple, located in the middle of a forest, is one of the oldest temples in Kathmandu. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and has several ancient sculptures and carvings. The temple is also surrounded by a beautiful garden and offers fantastic views of the valley.

Dining Spots

Thamel

Thamel is a popular tourist area in Kathmandu, filled with several restaurants serving local and international cuisines. From momos (dumplings) to traditional Newari meals, Thamel has something for every foodie. Some popular restaurants in Thamel are Third Eye Restaurant, OR2K, and Fire and Ice Pizzeria.

Newari Food

Newari cuisine is an essential part of the Nepalese food culture and is a must-try when in Kathmandu. Some popular Newari dishes include buffalo meat momos, chatamari, and gwaramari. Some local restaurants in Kathmandu that serve authentic Newari food are Honacha Restaurant, Bajeko Sekuwa, and Bhancha Ghar.

Cultural Experiences

Patan Museum

Patan Museum is located inside the Patan Durbar Square and offers a glimpse of the ancient Newari arts and crafts. It has a collection of traditional paintings, religious scripts, and artifacts. The museum also has a display of traditional wooden carvings and sculptures.

Pottery Square

Pottery Square, located in Bhaktapur, is one of the busiest areas in the city. It is a small street lined with several pottery shops that sell handmade pottery items. Tourists can also try their hands at making pottery under the guidance of local artisans.

Local History

Golden Gate

The Golden Gate, located in Bhaktapur Durbar Square, is an exemplary piece of Newari architecture. The gate leads to the Taleju Bhawani Temple and is adorned with several golden figures of deities. The gate is said to be the oldest and the most decorative piece of architecture in the square.

Kumbeshwar Temple

Kumbeshwar Temple, located in Patan, is one of the most ancient temples in the city and is believed to be built in the 14th century. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is a beautiful piece of Newari architecture. The temple hosts a Mask dance festival every year, which is a significant tourist attraction.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions

Bhaktapur Taumadhi Square

The Taumadhi Square, located in Bhaktapur, is a beautiful pagoda-style temple and is a little off the beaten path. The square is a great place to relax with a cup of coffee, and tourists can also witness the temple rituals and ceremonies.

Swayambhunath Stupa

Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, is a famous Buddhist temple located on a hilltop that offers a fantastic view of the Kathmandu Valley. The temple is also home to several monkeys who roam around freely.

It is advisable to carry a Kathmandu guidebook when visiting these places as it supersedes Google Maps. In addition, while embarking on a walking tour, consult a local tour guide. A sightseeing tour of Patan and Bhaktapur in Kathmandu is an experience that will leave you with wondrous memories.