How to Plan Your Kathmandu Walking Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Nepal, Kathmandu is undoubtedly on your list of places to visit. The city is a vibrant and colorful melting pot of cultures, religions, and traditions. It’s hard to take it all in without some guidance. That’s where the Kathmandu Walking Tour comes in. This tour will help you explore the city’s historic landmarks, temples, and local markets while walking through the busy streets of Kathmandu. Here’s how to plan your Kathmandu Walking Tour.

Experience

The Kathmandu Walking Tour is a unique experience that will take you through some of the busiest and most ancient streets of the city. It’s a walking tour, so be prepared for some activity. You’ll explore some of the city’s most famous landmarks, such as the Swayambhunath Temple and Kathmandu Durbar Square. Along the way, you’ll mingle with locals and witness their daily lives, as you stroll through historic temples and squares.

Highlights

The Kathmandu Walking Tour is full of highlights! You’ll get to see some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Here are a few highlights of the tour.

– Visit the oldest market in Kathmandu, Ason, and witness the daily lives of the locals.
– Explore Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with historical and religious significance.
– Take a trip to the famous Freak Street, which was the most popular junction during the Hippy era.
– See the Monkey Temple, also known as Swayambhunath, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, which offers spectacular views of the entire Kathmandu Valley.

Procedure

To plan your Kathmandu Walking Tour, you’ll first need to book your tour using the link provided: book the tour here. Once you’ve booked your tour, you’ll need to make sure you’re prepared for the walking tour. Wear comfortable shoes and clothes, as you’ll be walking through the busy streets of Kathmandu for several hours. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect you from the sun. Don’t forget to bring a water bottle to stay hydrated.

The tour will start by walking from your hotel to the nearby Ason Market. You’ll explore the market, which is the oldest in Kathmandu, and see how the locals carry out their daily lives. From there, you’ll head to Kathmandu Durbar Square, where you’ll explore the temples, shrines, and squares that hold both historical and religious significance. Afterward, you’ll take a trip to the famous Freak Street, which was the most popular junction for the Hippy era.

Next, you’ll head to the Monkey Temple, also known as Swayambhunath. You’ll marvel at the stunning panoramic view of the Kathmandu Valley from the top of the hill. Finally, you’ll walk back to Thamel, where you’ll end your tour. Alternatively, you can take a taxi back to your hotel if you’re feeling worn out.

Tips for the Tour

Here are some tips to make the most of your Kathmandu Walking Tour:

– Wear comfortable shoes and clothes as you’ll be walking for several hours.
– Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect you from the sun.
– Stay hydrated by bringing a water bottle with you.
– Exchange some cash before the tour, as many local shops and markets don’t accept credit cards.
– Be polite and respectful towards the locals, and ask before taking any pictures of them.

Conclusion

The Kathmandu Walking Tour is an exciting way to experience the colorful city of Kathmandu. The tour takes you through some of its busiest streets and landmarks, making it an excellent way to experience the daily lives of the locals. With the tips provided, you’ll be well prepared for your walking tour, making it an enjoyable experience. Don’t forget to book your tour using the link provided and have a wonderful time in Kathmandu!

Discovering the Hidden Gems in Kathmandu: An Insider’s Guide to a Memorable Walking Tour

Kathmandu is a city with a rich and diverse culture, fascinating history, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Beyond the popular tourist spots, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path destinations to explore. As a local, I would like to share with you some of the best hidden gems that would make your walking tour truly memorable.

Local Attractions: Gems that Only Locals Know

Pashupatinath Temple is undoubtedly a popular destination, but not many know about the peaceful and serene Rudra Varna Mahavihar. Also known as Uku Bahal, this temple complex is located in central Kathmandu and stands out for its stunning wood-carved exterior.

Another gem that many tourists overlook is the Kaiser Mahal. This palace was built in the 19th century and is now a museum of Nepali art. The exhibits showcase the country’s rich artistic heritage and include intricate woodcarvings, delicate textiles, and captivating paintings.

Dining Spots: Where to Experience Kathmandu’s Local Cuisine

When in Kathmandu, one must try the Newari cuisine, a type of food unique to the Kathmandu valley. A popular dish is Choila, made with marinated and grilled meat, usually buffalo, which is served with beaten rice and spicy sauce. At Bajeko Sekuwa, you get to relish this delicious dish while sitting on the rooftop terrace and soaking in panoramic views.

Another must-try is Momo, a dumpling that is a Nepali staple. While several eateries serve these delicious dumplings, you don’t want to miss visiting Roadhouse Cafe, which arguably makes the best momos in town.

Cultural Experiences: Unveiling the Rich Cultural Heritage of Kathmandu

From lively festivals to traditional crafts, Kathmandu is a city filled with deeply rooted cultural experiences. You can witness the city’s unique art scene by visiting the Patan Museum, which houses plenty of fascinating exhibits and art pieces from various periods.

One of the most vibrant festivals celebrated in the country is Dashain. The ten-day long festival honours the goddess Durga and signifies the triumph of good over evil. During this time, locals indulge in feasts, music, and social gatherings. Kathmandu’s streets come alive with colourful decorations, lights, and festive activities, making it a truly magical time to visit the city.

Local History: Captivating Tales from Kathmandu’s Past

Kathmandu has a rich and diverse history that dates back over two thousand years. One of the most remarkable stories is that of the Kasthamandap, which gave the city its name. The wooden building considered one of the oldest in the city, was believed to have been constructed using the wood of a single tree.

Another interesting bit of history is the tale of the ‘Living Goddess’ or Kumari, a prepubescent girl who is believed to be the incarnation of the Hindu goddess Taleju.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Discovering Unique and Unforgettable Experiences

Kathmandu is famous for its mountainous terrain, and hiking is a popular activity in the city. While many tourists opt for popular trails such as the Everest Base Camp trek, why not make use of your Kathmandu walking tour to explore some less famous treks such as Shivpuri to Nagarjun or Champadevi hill trek?

If you’re on the lookout for something more laid back, visit the Saturday Market, which sells authentic Nepali handicrafts, food, and organic produce. It’s a great spot to interact with locals, learn about traditional crafts, and experience the city’s local culture.

Conclusion:

Kathmandu is a city that will charm you with its rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. Beyond the popular tourist spots, there are hidden gems waiting to be discovered. I hope that this insider’s guide has provided you with some exciting ideas to make your walking tour of Kathmandu unforgettable. Don’t forget to explore, try new things, and make some unforgettable memories!