
Tours & Sightseeing
Kathmandu Durbar Square
Kathmandu Durbar Square, a historical treasure, is the heart of the ancient city, once the seat of the Malla kings. The square, surrounded by temples and palaces, reflects the architectural grandeur of Nepal’s royal heritage. Key attractions include the Basantapur Tower, Kumari Ghar (the residence of the Living Goddess), Kastamandap (the House of Wood), Garuda, Shiva Temple, Sweta Bhairab, Black Bhairab, and the Old Royal Palace. Visitors can also marvel at the Anuman Statue (the monkey god), which guards the entrance to the square.
Patan Durbar Square
Located about five kilometers south of Kathmandu, Patan (also known as Lalitpur) is a city renowned for its rich cultural and religious history. Known as the "City of Artists," Patan is famous for its fine bronze gateways, guardian deities, and intricate carvings. The square houses several important Hindu and Buddhist monuments, including the Mahabouddha Temple and The Golden Temple. The city's craftsmen, especially metalworkers, are renowned, and the square is a hub for traditional art.
Bhaktapur
Bhaktapur, also called Bhadgaon or the "City of Devotees," is located 14 km east of Kathmandu. This medieval city is famed for its preserved temples and palaces, most notably the 55-Window Palace, The Golden Gate, and Nyatapola Temple (the tallest pagoda-style temple in Nepal). Visitors can also explore the Bhairab Temple and the Dattatraya Square, filled with ancient monuments and vibrant culture.
Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)
Swayambhunath Stupa, located atop a hill, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Kathmandu. Believed to be over 2,200 years old, the stupa’s all-seeing eyes of Buddha symbolize wisdom. Swayambhunath is also known as the Monkey Temple due to the large population of monkeys that reside there. The panoramic view of Kathmandu Valley from the stupa is breathtaking, and visitors can explore its numerous shrines and temples.
Boudhanath Stupa
Boudhanath Stupa is one of the largest and most significant Buddhist stupas in the world, and it’s a central pilgrimage site for Tibetan Buddhists. Surrounded by numerous monasteries, the stupa is often bustling with Buddhist devotees, especially during Tibetan New Year and other festivals. The area also features several shops offering Buddhist artifacts, prayer flags, and religious items.
Pashupatinath Temple
Situated along the banks of the Bagmati River, the Pashupatinath Temple is one of the holiest sites for Hindus. This ancient temple complex, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a center for Hindu cremation rituals and attracts devotees from around the world. The temple is especially crowded during the Shivaratri festival when thousands of pilgrims visit to offer prayers.
Kakani
Located 25 km from Kathmandu at an elevation of 6,599 feet, Kakani is a scenic hill station known for its panoramic views of the Himalayas and its terraced fields. Kakani offers short trekking options and is an excellent place for a day trip, providing stunning views of Mount Ganesh Himal and Mount Langtang.
Nagarkot
Nagarkot, a popular hill station located 32 km east of Kathmandu, stands at an elevation of 7,133 feet. Known for its lush forests of pine trees, it offers mesmerizing views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest on clear days. It is a perfect getaway for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
Dhulikhel
Dhulikhel is an ancient hill town that offers panoramic views of the snowy Himalayan ranges. Situated 30 km east of Kathmandu, it is known for its picturesque landscapes and is a great spot for hiking. The town is also culturally significant, with many Newar traditions still prevalent in its daily life.
Namo Buddha
Located just above the Panauti Valley, Namo Buddha is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site. The area is home to an ancient stupa and monastery, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valley. A serene place for meditation, Namo Buddha is significant for Buddhists, as it’s believed to be the site where Prince Mahasattva (Buddha in a previous life) sacrificed his body to a hungry tigress and her cubs.
Gorkha
Gorkha, located west of Kathmandu, is famous for its historical significance. Once the capital of the unified kingdom of Nepal, Gorkha is home to the Gorkha Durbar (palace) and the Gorkhnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Gorkhnath. The town also marks the birthplace of King Prithvi Narayan Shah, the founder of modern Nepal. The nearby Manakamana Temple, accessed by a cable car, is a popular pilgrimage site dedicated to the goddess Manakamana.
Pokhara
Pokhara is the adventure capital of Nepal, offering a blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities. The city is the gateway to many trekking routes, including the popular Annapurna Circuit and Mardi Himal treks. Located at an altitude of 827 meters, Pokhara has a subtropical climate and is known for its picturesque landscapes, serene Phewa Lake, and adventure sports like paragliding and rafting.
Phewa Lake
The second-largest lake in Nepal, Phewa Lake is the center of attraction in Pokhara. It offers boating opportunities, and visitors can explore the Barahi Temple, located on an island in the middle of the lake. The lakeside area is filled with hotels, restaurants, and shops, making it the perfect place for tourists to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Devi's Fall (Patale Chhango)
Located near the Pokhara Airport, Devi's Fall is a natural wonder that drops into an underground tunnel. According to local legend, a trekker named David was swept away by the waters and disappeared into the fall, hence the name "David's Fall."
Mahendra Gupha
Mahendra Gupha, or Bat Cave, is a large limestone cave near Pokhara. Visitors can explore the cave, which is home to thousands of bats, and marvel at the stalactites and stalagmites inside. A flashlight is recommended for exploring the cave.
Bindhbasini Temple
Situated in the Old Bazaar of Pokhara, Bindhbasini Temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhagabati, a manifestation of the Hindu goddess Shakti. The temple is a spiritual hub, and the area offers a beautiful picnic spot with panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Lumbini (The Birthplace of Buddha)
Lumbini is the birthplace of Lord Siddhartha Gautama (Buddha), who is regarded as the messenger of peace and non-violence. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located in the Terai Plains in western Nepal. Key attractions in Lumbini include the Ashokan Pillar, which marks the birthplace of Buddha, the Maya Devi Temple, and the Puskarni Sacred Pool, where Maya Devi is said to have bathed before giving birth to Buddha.
The Ashokan Pillar
The Ashokan Pillar is an important historical landmark, erected by Emperor Ashoka of India in 249 BC to commemorate his visit to the birthplace of Buddha. The inscription on the pillar is the earliest epigraphic evidence of Buddha’s birth.
The Maya Devi Temple
The Maya Devi Temple is the most sacred site in Lumbini. It marks the exact spot where Queen Maya Devi gave birth to Siddhartha Gautama. The Maha Maya Devi image in the temple depicts the queen holding onto a tree branch while giving birth, a significant moment in Buddhist tradition.
Puskarni Sacred Pool
The Puskarni Pool is believed to be the place where Maya Devi took a purifying bath before giving birth. It is an important site for Buddhist pilgrims who come to Lumbini to honor the birthplace of Buddha.