Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is a ‘must-visit’ destination for travelers looking to explore the beauty of the Himalayas and experience Nepal’s rich cultural heritage. While there are plenty of group tours available, many travelers prefer to opt for private tours to explore this vibrant city at their own pace. Private tours in Kathmandu offer a more personalized experience, providing the opportunity to go off the beaten path and experience the city like a local. If you’re planning a trip to Kathmandu and seeking a private tour experience, we’ve got you covered. In this post, we’ve rounded up the 5 best private tours in Kathmandu you won’t want to miss.
The 5 Best Private Tours in Kathmandu
- Private Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour
- Private 10 Days Everest Base Camp Trek return by Helicopter
- 14-Days Private Everest Base Camp Trek
- Private Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour – UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- Private Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites
The 5 Best Private Tours in Kathmandu
1. Private Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour
The Private Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour is the perfect opportunity to explore the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas. This VIP tour takes you on a helicopter ride to the foothills of the world’s tallest peak in just a single day, skipping the 13-day trek to Everest Base Camp. Your pilot will provide live commentary as you soar over the terrain and take in the stunning views from two photo stops. Along the way, you’ll also have the chance to enjoy a delicious breakfast stop at Hotel Everest View, known as the world’s highest altitude hotel. This exclusive tour includes airport transfers, all taxes, and VAT, but does not cover meals, drinks, or gratuities. Book now and experience the thrill of seeing Everest in a day.
2. Private 10 Days Everest Base Camp Trek return by Helicopter
If you’re looking for a way to experience the Everest Base Camp trek in Nepal, you might want to consider this 10-day private tour. It includes an unforgettable helicopter ride back to Kathmandu from Kalapatar, allowing you to bypass the trek back. You’ll get to see four of the world’s highest peaks along the way, including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. You’ll be traveling with a small group for maximum experience, and all accommodation, flights to and from Lukla, meals, and airport transfers are included. The tour also covers airport pick-up and drop-off, as well as breakfast in Kathmandu. Bring your Nepal entry visa fee and enjoy the trek!
3. 14-Days Private Everest Base Camp Trek
Trek to the stunning Everest Base Camp with this 14-day private tour. Get ready to explore the high altitude terrain with your experienced guide who will ensure your comfort and safety. Along the way, learn about Sherpa culture, visit Buddhist monasteries, and enjoy breath-taking views of the snow-capped mountains. Accommodation is provided both in Kathmandu and on the trek, and porters will be arranged to carry your heavy gear. All necessary permits, entrance fees, and meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are included in your package. The tour starts with a pick-up from your hotel or the airport. Please confirm the pick-up time with the local provider before your experience. Note that personal expenses and travel insurance are not included in the package. This tour is wheelchair/stroller accessible. Get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime experience in Nepal!
4. Private Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour – UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Explore the cultural side of Kathmandu on a private half-day tour. Your informative guide will pick you up from your hotel and take you to Patan Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can admire the impressive architecture and experience the history of the medieval town. Continue to Swayambhunath Temple, commonly known as Monkey Temple, and watch the playful monkeys frolic around the sacred site. Take in the stunning views from the Pashupatinath Temple and visit the Boudhanath Stupa with its roots dating back to 600 AD. Throughout the tour, your guide will provide fascinating commentary about the history and culture of Kathmandu and Nepal. The package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, private transportation with air conditioning, monuments entry fees, and meals.
5. Private Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites
This full-day private tour is perfect for those who want to cover Kathmandu’s main sites in a short amount of time. A professional English-speaking guide will take you to four UNESCO World Heritage sites, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Temple, Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa, and share insights about the Hindu and Buddhist traditions in Nepal. The tour includes transportation via private air-conditioned vehicle and hotel pickup and drop-off. Entrance fees to the monuments (approximately NPR 2,600 per person) are not included in the price, but drinking water is provided throughout the tour. Enjoy the convenience and intimacy of a private tour while maximizing your time in Kathmandu!
Top Frequently Asked Questions About Kathmandu
Kathmandu is a wonderful city, rich in culture and history. It’s a popular tourist destination that attracts thousands of visitors every year. In this blog post, we will answer some of the most common questions that people have about Kathmandu.
1. What is the Best Time to Visit Kathmandu?
The best time to visit Kathmandu is from October to November and from March to May. During these months, the weather in Kathmandu is pleasant with clear skies and mild temperatures. The monsoon season coincides with the summer months, which can bring heavy rainfall to the region. The winter months can also be cold and dry, with temperatures dropping down to freezing point.
2. What Should I Wear in Kathmandu?
Kathmandu is a city that is rich in culture, and respect for local customs is highly appreciated. It would help if you dressed modestly, avoiding revealing attire. You should pack clothes that are comfortable, lightweight, and made of breathable fabrics to cope with the hot temperatures.
3. What Are the Top Tourist Attractions in Kathmandu?
Kathmandu is a city full of temples, monasteries, and historical sites. Some of the top attractions that you should visit include:
- Swayambhunath Stupa or Monkey Temple
- Pashupatinath Temple
- Boudhanath Stupa
- Durbar Square
- Patan
- Thamel
4. Is It Safe to Visit Kathmandu?
Kathmandu is a relatively safe city for tourists. However, there are some safety concerns that you should be aware of. It would help if you avoided walking alone at night and always kept your valuables secure. It’s essential to take precautions to avoid being a target of pickpockets and scammers.
5. What Are the Best Food and Drinks to Try in Kathmandu?
Kathmandu is a city that offers a broad range of food and drinks. Some of the popular dishes to try include:
- Momo – a type of dumpling filled with meat or vegetables
- Dal Bhat – a traditional Nepali dish consisting of steamed rice, lentil soup, and vegetable curry
- Thukpa – a Tibetan noodle soup
- Aloo Tama – a curry made with potatoes, bamboo shoots, and black-eyed beans
In terms of drinks, you might want to try the local Chyang, a millet beer that is popular with locals.
6. What Is the Currency Used in Kathmandu?
The currency used in Kathmandu is the Nepalese rupee. One rupee is made up of 100 paisa. It’s best to exchange your currency at banks and exchange offices to get a fair exchange rate.
7. What Is the Language Spoken in Kathmandu?
The official language of Kathmandu is Nepali. However, most people in Kathmandu can speak English. It would help if you carried a guidebook and a basic phrasebook to communicate with locals.
8. What Are the Best Ways to Get Around Kathmandu?
Kathmandu is a city that offers various modes of transport. The most common ways to get around the city include:
- Taxis
- Buses
- Rickshaws
- Motorbikes
You can also walk or hire a bike to explore the city on your own.
9. What Are Some Cultural Cues to Be Aware of in Kathmandu?
Kathmandu is a city that is proud of its heritage and traditions. When visiting temples and historic sites, you should always take off your shoes before entering. It’s also important to cover your shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites.
10. What Are Some Helpful Apps to Download for Kathmandu?
There are several apps that can help you navigate Kathmandu and make your trip more comfortable. Some of the popular apps include:
- Google Maps
- Nepali Patro
- Foodmandu
- Tootle
- Sarathi
Conclusion
Kathmandu is a city full of wonders and cultural heritage. We hope that this blog post has helped you answer some of the most common questions that people have about the city. Remember to plan your trip in advance, respect local customs, and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
The 5 Best Private Tours in Kathmandu: Frequently Asked Questions
Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. The city is rich in history, culture, and architecture, and there is so much to see and do in Kathmandu. One of the best ways to experience the beauty and charm of the city is through a private tour. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the top five private tours in Kathmandu.
1. What are the top five private tours in Kathmandu?
The top five private tours in Kathmandu are:
1. Kathmandu Heritage Walk
2. Boudhanath Stupa and Pashupatinath Temple Tour
3. Patan and Bhaktapur City Tour
4. Everest Flight and Sightseeing Tour
5. Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing Tour
2. What is included in a private tour?
A private tour usually includes a guide and transportation, whether it be by car or on foot, depending on the tour. The guide will take you to the different sights and provide you with insightful commentary along the way. Entrance fees to the different sites may or may not be included and will depend on the tour company and itinerary.
3. How long do the tours last?
The duration of the tours can vary depending on the itinerary and tour company. The Kathmandu Heritage Walk and Patan and Bhaktapur City Tour usually last for around four hours, while the Boudhanath Stupa and Pashupatinath Temple Tour takes about five hours. The Everest Flight and Sightseeing Tour is a full-day tour, and the Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing Tour can last anywhere from six to eight hours.
4. How much do the tours cost?
The cost of the tours can also vary depending on the tour company and itinerary. The Kathmandu Heritage Walk and Patan and Bhaktapur City Tour usually cost around $40 to $50 per person. The Boudhanath Stupa and Pashupatinath Temple Tour costs around $70 to $80 per person. The Everest Flight and Sightseeing Tour is the most expensive, with prices ranging from $200 to $250 per person. The Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing Tour costs around $60 to $80 per person.
5. What sights will I see on the tours?
The sights you will see on the tours will depend on the itinerary, but some of the most popular ones include:
– Kathmandu Heritage Walk: Durbar Square, Kumari Ghar, Swayambhunath Stupa
– Boudhanath Stupa and Pashupatinath Temple Tour: Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, Guhyeshwari Temple
– Patan and Bhaktapur City Tour: Patan Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Changu Narayan Temple
– Everest Flight and Sightseeing Tour: Mount Everest, the Himalayas, lakes and glaciers
– Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing Tour: Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath Stupa, Patan Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square
6. Are the tours suitable for children?
Yes, most of the tours are suitable for children, but it will ultimately depend on the age of the child and the tour itinerary. The Kathmandu Heritage Walk and Patan and Bhaktapur City Tour are both easy walks and suitable for children of all ages. The Boudhanath Stupa and Pashupatinath Temple Tour and the Everest Flight and Sightseeing Tour are more suitable for older children and teenagers.
7. How do I book a private tour in Kathmandu?
You can book a private tour in Kathmandu through a tour company or through your hotel. It’s always best to book in advance, especially during peak tourist season. You can also book a private tour online through popular booking websites like Viator or TripAdvisor.
8. What should I wear on a private tour?
It’s always best to wear comfortable clothing and shoes, especially if you will be walking for an extended period of time. It’s also important to dress appropriately when visiting sacred sites like temples and stupas. You should always dress modestly and remove your shoes when entering these sites.
9. Is it safe to take a private tour in Kathmandu?
Yes, it is generally safe to take a private tour in Kathmandu, but it’s always best to exercise caution and follow the advice of your guide. Petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas, so it’s important to keep your valuables safe.
10. What’s the best time to take a private tour in Kathmandu?
The best time to take a private tour in Kathmandu is during the dry season, which runs from October to May. The weather is usually stable during this time, and the visibility is excellent for sightseeing. It’s also important to avoid the monsoon season, which runs from June to September, as heavy rainfall can make it difficult to get around the city.
Conclusion
A private tour is an excellent way to explore the sights and sounds of Kathmandu. It’s also a great way to learn more about the rich history and culture of Nepal. By taking the time to book a private tour and plan your itinerary, you can make the most out of your visit to the city. Be sure to choose one of the top five private tours in Kathmandu and enjoy the beauty and charm that this city has to offer.
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