Step on an extraordinary journey to explore the Seven UNESCO Heritage Sites variant in Kathmandu in a flexible timeframe with a professional guide to give you the personal touch of medieval Nepal.
Kathmandu City is entitled to the UNESCO Creative City of Films and has proudly received this title from UNESCO in 2024. It is one of the popular cities worldwide that has maintained its antiqueness by preserving its culture, art, and architecture.
Surrounded by hills, Kathmandu Valley is a diverse land with 7 UNESCO Sites and can be visited within a single day. Those cover the majestic Historical, Cultural, and Religious Sites and carry a glimpse of the entire Nepal in a single-day tour.
Apart from Historical and Cultural sites, one can explore the wide range of hills and Himalayas in this
Blessed with thousands of temples and shrines, historical stupas, monasteries, cremation spots, etc. Kathmandu offers mixed cultural and traditional variants for travelers as the entire valley is an open living museum.
There are seven popular UNESCO Heritage Sites in Kathmandu Valley that offer living and lively experiences. Starting the Monkey Temple also known originally as SWYAMBHUNATH, provides you with ample view of the valley and the majestic Himalayas with the panoramic view of the Langtang Himalayan Ranges will be a majestic experience.
Swyambhunath holds a special place for pilgrimage because of its majestic Stupa, monastery, and temples, and secretly to say ….. Monkeys all around enjoying and playing.
UNESCO Sites to Visit in Kathmandu
There are 7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu and 8 overall in Nepal. Those carry Religious, Cultural, and Historical importance. The Medieval Palace, Temples, and Buddhist Stupa are popular and well-maintained sites in Nepal and are preserved under conservation acts.
Within Kathmandu Valley lies 3 districts in a short distance, namely Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Lalitpur. Kathmandu has been listed as a UNESCO Heritage City and covers 4 UNESCO Heritage Sites. Those are Swyambhunath Stupa, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, and Bouddhanath.
Secondly, Lalitpur district is one of the prominent and artistic as well and its history can be traced back to the 2nd Century BC and holds One UNESCO Heritage Site, namely Patan Durbar Square.
Finally, the last district of Kathmandu Valley is Bhaktapur which used to be the capital city of Nepal from the 12th-15th Century AD. Bhaktapur is one of the well-preserved medieval cities in Nepal and holds 2 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, namely Bhaktapur Durbar Square and Changunarayan Temple, which is also the oldest standing temple structure in Nepal.
Can We Visit Seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Kathmandu Valley in a Single Day
It is possible to complete Seven UNESCO Heritage Sites of Kathmandu Valley in a single day because those places are closely related to each other and can be covered within a day.
However, we recommend travelers start this tour a bit earlier to complete it in a relaxing way, exploring the entire area.
This entire UNESCO Heritage Tour of Seven Places will take around 9-10 Hours to complete in a more relaxing way in a private car.
Cost Detail
- 1 Pax: USD 95
- 2 Pax: USD 60 Per Person
- 3 Pax: USD 50 Per Person
- 4 Pax: USD 45 Per Person
- 5 Pax: USD 42 Per Person
- 6-10 Pax: USD 40 Per Person
Cost Included:
- Private Car/Van/Jeep/ Hiace[D1] [D2] [D3] depending upon the number of travelers
- Registered Tour Guide Throughout Tour
- Government Tax and Service Charges
Cost Excludes:
- Personal Expenses including Lunch
- Tips and Gratitude to Your Guide
- Entrance Fees to the UNESCO Heritage Sites
Entrance Fees for the Seven UNESCO Heritage Sites
UNESCO Heritage Sites charge a certain amount as an entrance fee from the traveler for its maintenance, below is the cost for travelers for all the UNESCO Sites:
- SWYAMBHU NATH STUPA (MONKEY TEMPLE) = RS. 200
- KATHMANDU DURBAR SQUARE = RS. 1000
- PATAN DURBAR SQUARE = RS. 1000
- BHAKTAPUR DURBAR SQUARE = RS. 1800 OR USD 15
- CHANGUNARAYAN TEMPLE = RS. 400
- BOUDDHANATH = RS. 400
- PASHUPATINATH = RS. 1000
Seven World Heritage Excursion in Kathmandu Itinerary:
Hotel Pick Up:
The pick-up Time for the Tour is flexible and can be arranged at your convenient time. However, we request our clients to make the Tour start no later than 8 AM. An early start will make you experience numerous activities in and around the temple premises and also the daily ritual ceremonies and activities around the sites.
Below is the tentative program of the Seven UNESCO Sites Tour:
1. SWYAMBHUNATH STUPA (MONKEY TEMPLE)
- Duration of the Tour: Approximately 1 hour
Activities:
Majestic Stupa, Temple, and Monastery: Explore the Stupa and Temples around which lies at the top of the hillock. A perfect combination of Buddhist and Hindu Sites, Swyambhunath is one of the popular Pilgrimage sites that carries the history of Nepal.
Panoramic View: Swyambhunath Stupa lies on the top of the hillock and can be reached easily by climbing well-paved steps. This site provides a panoramic view of the Kathmandu valley, surrounding hills, and the Langtang range of the Himalayas.
Monkeys and Falcon:Swyambhunnath Hill is a perfect place for ecology at the center of Kathmandu City. The temple ground is home to thousands of Monkeys and trees for eagles and falcons.
Well fed with the offered foods by devotes, one can see monkeys everywhere and are regarded as a holy animal in Nepal.
Highlights:
- A perfect place for Sunrise and Sunset Views
- Majestic view of the City from the top and the Hills and Himalayas behind
- Peaceful environment to observe the daily ritual ceremonies in the Temple, Stupa, and Monastery.
2. KATHMANDU DURBAR SQUARE (BASANTAPUR)
- Duration of the Tour: 1.5 Hours
Activities:
- Royal Palace Visit
- Living Goddesses Kumari
- Palace Museum
- Explore Temples and Buddhist Shrines
- Walk around the Freak Street
Highlights:
Kathmandu Durbar Square is a perfect place to explore the diverse vibrant Newari Art and Architecture. From the tallest temples to the first palace of unified Nepal, the squares hold numerous temples and Buddhist shrines.
The living goddess KUMARI resides here and the entire area holds spiritual significance to the Nepali. Till the 70s, this area was a popular destination for HIPPIES and still, one can explore the freak street and extend towards the oldest local market of Kathmandu.
3. PATAN DURBAR SQUARE
- Duration of the Tour: 1.5 Hours
Activities:
- Explore the typical Sikhara Temple
- Giant Palace and Museum
- The water reservoir
- Five Floor Khumbeswor Mahadev Temple
- Sundari Chowk and the royal bath
Highlights:
Patan Durbar Square is the oldest kingdom of the Kathmandu Valley and is one of the finest UNESCO Sites to visit. With numerous temples, stupas, and monasteries, Patan welcomes thousands of visitors due to its beauty, very enchanting and attractive place to be.
One can explore the lively culture and activities in and around the temple and monastery premises and the typical decade-long old houses are still a splendid sight.
4. BHAKTAPUR DURBAR SQUARE
- Duration of the Tour: 2 Hours
Activities:
- Dattatreya Square
- Natapola Square
- Pottery Square
- Durbar Square
Highlights:
Bhaktapur Durbar Square is the largest UNESCO Heritage Site in Kathmandu with four different squares. An ancient capital of Nepal, Bhaktapur is a medieval city with the tallest five-storied temple and 55-window palace.
There are numerous temples and Buddhist shrines to explore with the magnificent wood carving and the natural fountain everywhere. Bhaktapur holds its finest place in Nepal because it has entirely maintained its unique beauty.
5. CHANGUNARAYAN TEMPLE
- Duration of the Tour: 1 Hour
Activities:
- Visit the oldest temple of Kathmandu Valley
- Finest Stone architecture
- Explore the old village
- Scenic View of the Hills, Himalayas, and the Kathmandu Valley
- Historical Site
Highlights:
Changunarayan is one of the oldest settlements of Kathmandu Valley and is famous for the Changunarayan Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is still the oldest standing architecture in Kathmandu.
There are numerous shrines and stone images of gods and goddesses around the temple premises dating back from 455 AD with the Garuda statue and different incarnations of Lord Vishnu.
6. BOUDDHANATH STUPA
- Duration of the Tour: 1 Hour
Activities:
- Explore the largest stupa
- Visit the monasteries and experience the ceremonies
- Circumambulate the Stupa
- Experience the typical Tibetan Culture
Highlights:
Bouddhanath Stupa is the largest stupa in Nepal and is one of the main centers for Tibetan Buddhist followers. With more than 3 dozen monasteries around, Bouddhanath has preserved different sects of Tibetan Buddhism.
Dating back to the 5th Century, Bouddhanath holds special significance for both Hindu and Buddhist followers. Every morning and afternoon ceremonies are organized in the monastery and visitors can take part.
7. PASHUPATINATH TEMPLE
- Duration of the Tour: 1.5 Hours
Activities:
- Visit the ancient temple of Lord Shiva
- Explore the open cremation
- Observe the ritual ceremonies upon the Dead Bodies
- Meet the Saddhus
Highlights
Pashupatinath is one of the holiest Hindu temples which lies on the bank of the Bagmati River. For Hindu followers, this is one of the must-visit pilgrimage sites. The exact date of the temple is unknown, however, it is believed that the temple existed from the beginning period of Hinduism.
The roof and outer part of the temple are covered with gold and silver and in the main temple courtyard foreigners are strictly prohibited from entering.
On the other side of the temple, there is a range of cremation spots where everyday dead bodies are cremated openly and travelers can experience the procedure and process and also know how and why Hindus cremate the dead.
Apart from the main temple, there are numerous other temples around and Shadu (Holy Man) can be seen around. Evening, every day Aarati Ceremony is organized on the bank of the river Bagmati, and thousands of people take part in this ceremony.
HOW WILL THE SEVEN UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE TOUR BE ORGANIZED
Seven UNESCO World Heritage Tours in Kathmandu will start between 7 AM- 8 AM depending upon the traveler's flexibility and will last for around 9-10 Hours in a relaxing and comfortable way.
Starting early will be more beneficial because one will be able to experience the ritual ceremonies in the temple and monastery. Moreover, the daily activities of the people will be one of the best highlights of the entire tour.
On every UNESCO Site, your guide will explain to you the history and cultural significance of the places and then will allocate you sufficient time to explore around for photos or videos. This will be free time and you can do some shopping as well.
During the Tour, you will have lunch in one of the sites in a lovely restaurant with a majestic view. Lunch or tea break can either be in Patan Bhaktapur or Bouddhanath. This you can decide during the visit.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME FOR SEVEN UNESCO HERITAGE TOUR
UNESCO Heritage Tour can be conducted throughout the year as the sites are open throughout the year and 24/7. However, during the monsoon (June and July) or rainy days, we recommend travelers carry an Umbrella or let us know if you don’t have one with you.
Moreover, during the autumn and spring one can see the Himalayas during this tour from Swyambhunath, Bhaktapur, Changunarayan, and Bouddhanath. This will be an additional benefit for travelers who are in Nepal for just a short vacation.
WHO CAN DO THIS SEVEN UNESCO HERITAGE TOUR
This tour is suitable for all age groups and genders. However, the Seven UNESCO Heritage Tour involves a fair amount of walking.
We don’t recommend this tour for senior citizens with problems walking and also for those who use wheelchairs.
Moreover, if this tour is split into 2 days then is easy for senior citizens and also for those who use wheelchairs. Let us know about this, Discover Altitude will help in arranging the best way possible.
IN WHICH LANGUAGE WILL SEVEN UNESCO TOUR BE ORGANIZED
Seven UNESCO World Heritage Tour is conducted by a professional Tour Guide and will be in Standard English Language. However, other language options will be available upon request and with the extra payment of language speaking guide.
DO WE NEED TO HAVE SPECIAL DRESS CODE FOR THIS TOUR
No, there is no dress code required for this Seven UNESCO Heritage Tour. You can wear a dress that comforts you. However, kindly make sure your attire helps you with the hike during the tour.
ARE THERE TOILET FACILITIES AVAILABLE DURING THIS TOUR
Yes, in every UNESCO Heritage Site, there are Washroom facilities for Tourists that are neat. However, we recommend you carry toilet paper with you, if in case it is lacking in the washroom.
WHICH CURRENCY IS ACCEPTED FOR THE ENTRANCE FEE
While entering UNESCO Heritage Sites in Nepal, travelers will need to pay a certain amount as an entrance fee. This amount goes for the preservation and maintenance of the site. However, entrance fees are only accepted in Nepali Currency throughout, but in Bhaktapur Durbar Square, they do accept USD as an entrance fee which is USD 15 Per person.
CAN WE USE MOBILE PHONES AND CAMERA DURING THIS TOUR
Yes, you can use a mobile phone and camera and also can take photos and make videos during this tour. However, there are few temples, where we are not allowed to take pictures of the main idol of God or Goddesses that reside inside the temple.
Moreover, at the main entrance gate of the temple, they have information if not to take pictures.
CAN THE ITINERARY OF THIS TOUR BE MODIFIED
Yes, you can modify the itinerary of the Seven World Heritage Tour according to your interests.
WHAT IF WE DON'T WANT TO COMPLETE THE ENTIRE SEVERN WORLD HERITAGE SITE IN A DAY
If a traveler doesn't want to continue the entire tour in a day, you can extend the rest for another day. However, there will be an additional charge for the extension to the other day. This will be determined by the number of sites left for the next day.
CAN WE EXTEND OR SHORTEN THE DURATION OF THE TOUR
Yes, you can extend or shorten the duration of the tour for the same day. For this, we can start a bit earlier or extend a bit late evening.
ARE THE STARTING AND ENDING TIMES FOR THE TOUR FLEXIBLE
Yes, the starting and ending times of the tour can be organized according to travelers' interests and time schedules. This will be done only when you or your group does this tour privately. Please make sure in a group joining a tour with other travelers, the starting time will be fixed, however, the ending time will be flexible depending upon how we explore the sites.
WILL THE TIME DURATION OF THIS TOUR COVER ALL THE SEVEN WORLD HERITAGE SITES
Yes, the time duration mentioned will cover all Seven UNESCO Heritage Sites in a relaxing and comfortable way. However, if in case we face a traffic problem, this might go 30 minutes to an hour long, but we will make sure you cover all the sites comfortably.
WILL THE PICKUP AND DROP OFF BE ACCORDING TO OUR LOCATION
Yes, PickUp and Drop Off will be according to the location of the traveler. However, please make sure your location is within the location inside the ring road in case you prefer joining a group with other travelers.
For private tours Pick Up and Drop Off can be arranged according to your location within Kathmandu. Please contact us before booking if there is any confusion regarding your location. [email protected] or WhatsApp: +977-9841161593
