UNESCO Heritage Sites Tour - 1 day

Things to Know
  • Duration1 Days
  • Difficulty Level Easy
  • Altitude 1400 m
  • Trip Type Heritage Tour
  • Start and End kathmandu and Kathmandu
  • Best Time All time
What You’ll Do
  • Discover the rich cultural heritage of Kathmandu Valley through its UNESCO World Heritage sites
  • Explore the ancient temples and shrines that have stood for centuries
  • Immerse yourself in the vibrant local life of Kathmandu's bustling bazaars
  • Experience the spiritual significance of Nepal's holiest sites
  • Witness stunning architecture and intricate artwork unique to the region
  • Learn about the history and traditions of Kathmandu through expert local guides

Legends say Kathmandu Valley used to be a large pond and it became habitable only after Manjushree cut a hill to drain the water out. The Valley is a treasure trove in terms of art and architecture, culture and tradition. An old saying says: ‘There are more temples than houses and more idols than people in Kathmandu.’ You can find numerous temples dedicated to different gods and goddesses in every nook and corner of the Valley. Most of these temples are built in pagoda style – often multi-storied with slanting roofs but each successive roof is smaller. The three cities in the Valley – Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Lalitpur – used to be three independent kingdoms about 300 years ago. They used to be ruled by the Malla kings. They built many temples and palaces which are standing tall even today. This special tour package takes you to these architectural grandeurs of the Kathmandu Valley.

Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is a city that is steeped in history and culture, making it an amazing destination for history buffs and travellers seeking a unique and authentic cultural experience. The city boasts a rich and diverse heritage reflected in its stunning temples, palaces, and other historical sites. Heritage tour in Kathmandu entails a wide array of historical monuments thickly spread out within the valley. From the centuries-old relics to the modern-day landmark sites, Kathmandu encapsulates varied offerings that take you back millenniums before at the inception of time.

There are seven UNESCO sites spread across the Kathmandu Valley. The UNESCO Heritage Tour in Nepal is something that is not to be missed if you are fascinated by history, mythology, ancient walk of life and architecture. The 7 UNESCO sites in Kathmandu are Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, Bhaktapur Durbar Square and Changunarayan. All these sites have a pre-dominant significance from the age that dates back millenia and replicates the art, architecture and culture of the past. A tour of UNESCO Heritage sites includes a visit to 5 of these destinations bounded by Kathmandu and Lalitpur districts inside Kathmandu Valley.

For more information please click UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Itinerary
Expand AllCollapse All

  • Altitude1400 m
  • AccommodationHotel
  • Time7-8 hours

After having breakfast at the hotel, we will start our sightseeing from Swayambhunath, where you see 360 views of Kathmandu and from there you easily recognize the urbanization layout of the valley. This temple is also called the Monkey Temple. Be careful sometimes monkeys take your belongings and food from you. Then we visit Pashupatinath. Then after we go to Boudhhhanath, You can spend some time there and capture photos of the surroundings, after some refreshments, we further go to historic  Patan Durbar Square for sightseeing. 

Swayambhunath:

Seated on a hilltop in the southwestern part of Kathmandu Valley, Swayambhunath Stupa is an important pilgrimage for Buddhists and a must-visit site for tourists. The nearly 2,000-year-old stupa is a whitewashed dome - 20 meters in diameter and 32 meters in height. A conical spire sits on the top of the dome capped by a golden pinnacle. At the base of the spire is four pair of eyes looking in four directions. There are many temples dedicated to Buddhism and Hinduism in the Hindu premises – the perfect example of religious harmony existing in Nepal. The hill is surrounded by dense forests – a habitat for monkeys, giving its nickname ‘Monkey Temple’. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a sweeping view of the Kathmandu Valley. On sunny days, you will be rewarded with the view of the Himalayas glittering on the northern horizon.

Pashupatinath:

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Pashupatinath is the holiest shrine in Nepal and one of the four important shrines for Hindus all over the world. Believed to have been built in the 5th century and later renovated during the reign of the Malla kings, the site is believed to have existed from the beginning of the millennium when a Shiva lingam was discovered here by cow herders. This largest temple complex in Nepal sits on the banks of the holy Bagmati River. The main pagoda temple is two-storied with a golden pinnacle and has four silver doors and intricate wood carvings. There are temples and idols of several Hindu and Buddhist deities on the temple premises. Located just 3 kilometers from the city center, the Pashupatinath Temple premises is a UNESCO World Heritage site. There is also a cremation site on the banks of the Bagmati River where last rites of Hindus are performed. In the evening, a special aarti is offered to Lord Shiva amidst chanting of sacred mantras and performance of Tandava dance by young priests.

Bouddhanath:

Bouddhanath is one of the largest stupas in South Asia and a focal point of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. The 36-meter-high whitewashed dome sits on a big mandala. A spire is erected on the top of the dome and capped by a glittering pinnacle. At the base of the spiral lies four pairs of eyes looking at the four directions. The stupa, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, is believed to have been built in the 5th century. It is believed to entomb the remains of a sage Kasyap who is venerated by both Buddhists and Hindus. The environment in the stupa complex is always vibrant. Walk along devotees as they circumambulate the stupa, rotating prayer wheels. You can see monks and lama wearing maroon robes circumambulating the stupa and chanting mantras. The area is also the best place to buy Tibetan souvenirs – ranging from colourful thankas to trinkets and rugs. Eateries with rooftop patios serve you good food, offering fantastic views of the stupa and the surroundings.

Patan Durbar Square:

Patan is one of the old towns of the Kathmandu Valley. It used to be an independent state before Nepal was unified. The city is best known for its artistic heritage. The city is surrounded by four Ashokan stupas built in four corners. The city is full of temples and monuments, bronze gateways, guardian deities and wonderful carvings, among others. The main palace has three courtyards -- Mul Chowk, Sundari Chowk and Keshav Narayan Chowk. Patan Museum and the golden temple of Hiranaya Varna Mahavihar are the other attractions in and around Durbar Square.

Then we return to our hotel.

Trip Cost Details
Included
  • All ground transportation by private tourist vehicle
  • Iconic Holiday Nepal licensed English-speaking guide
  • Entry permits and fees for all temples, parks, monasteries, cultural and historical sites
  • The required number of ground staff during the tour like Driver, Helpers etc.
  • All administrative expenses and government taxes
Excluded
  • Meals including Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Any beverages including bottled and boiled water
  • Tips for hostess and driver (Tipping is expected).
  • Any expenses other than the Price Include section
Useful Info

Nepal is home to 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These sites are recognized for their cultural, historical, and natural significance. The UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Nepal are:

Cultural World Heritage Sites

  • Kathmandu Durbar Square
  • Patan Durbar Square
  • Bhaktapur Durbar Square
  • Pashupatinath Temple
  • Boudhanath Stupa
  • Swayambhunath Stupa
  • Changunarayan Temple
  • Lumbini, the Birthplace of Lord Buddha

Natural World Heritage Sites

  • Chitwan National Park
  • Sagarmatha National Park (includes Mount Everest region)

These sites showcase Nepal's rich cultural heritage, ancient architecture, religious importance, and natural beauty. They are major attractions for tourists and contribute to the preservation and promotion of Nepal's diverse heritage.

Boudhanath

The Boudhanath Stupa is a magnificent architectural marvel and one of the most revered sites in Nepal. Nestled in the heart of Kathmandu, this iconic structure towers above the cityscape and exudes an aura of spiritual significance and cultural significance. The stupa's sheer size and intricate design are a testament to the remarkable artistic and engineering capabilities of the Nepali people. Its massive white dome and striking golden spire are adorned with vibrant prayer flags and intricate carvings that depict sacred Buddhist deities and symbols. Boudhanath Tour entails immersion in the vibe of monuments that is said to have been built back in 600 A.D.

The Boudhanath Stupa has been a site of religious pilgrimage and cultural significance for centuries, attracting visitors from all over the world to bask in its tranquil aura and experience the spiritual energy that radiates from its core. The stupa's intricate architecture and religious symbolism offer a profound glimpse into the Buddhist faith and its profound impact on the Nepali people.

Swayambhunath

Perched atop a verdant hill overlooking the bustling city of Kathmandu, Swayambhunath is a sacred and iconic site that has been revered by the Nepali people for centuries. Known as the "Monkey Temple," this magnificent structure is a testament to the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Nepal. The stupa's unique design and exquisite ornamentation are a reflection of the deep artistic and engineering capabilities of the Nepali people. Its iconic white dome and stunning golden spire are adorned with intricate carvings, vibrant prayer flags, and ornate metalwork that depict sacred Buddhist deities and symbols. The tour to Swayambhunath takes you to the most sacred Buddhist shrine on the face of the earth which is said to have been built at least 2 millenniums before.

As you climb the hill towards Swayambhunath, you will be greeted by a lively troupe of monkeys that roam the temple's grounds. Their playful antics and curious expressions add to the site's vibrant atmosphere and create a sense of whimsy and wonder that is unique to this remarkable destination.

Once you reach the top of the hill, you will be struck by the awe-inspiring view of the city below and the serene aura that emanates from Swayambhunath's core. The temple's intricate architecture and religious symbolism offer a profound glimpse into the Buddhist faith and its profound impact on the Nepali people.

Pashupatinath

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Pashupatinath is the holiest shrine in Nepal and one of the four important shrines for Hindus all over the world. Believed to have been built in the 5th century and later renovated during the reign of the Malla kings, the site is believed to have existed from the beginning of the millennium when a Shiva lingam was discovered here by cow herders. This largest temple complex in Nepal sits on the banks of the holy Bagmati River. The main pagoda temple is two-storied with a golden pinnacle and has four silver doors and intricate wood carvings. There are temples and idols of several Hindu and Buddhist deities on the temple premises. Located just 3 kilometers from the city center, the Pashupatinath Temple premises is a UNESCO World Heritage site. There is also a cremation site on the banks of Bagmati River where last rites of Hindus are performed. In the evening, a special aarti is offered to Lord Shiva amidst chanting of sacred mantras and performance of Tandava dance by young priests.

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Kathmandu Durbar Square also called Hanuman Dhoka Durbar Square, a sprawling complex of temples, palaces, and courtyards is one of the most iconic and historically significant destinations in Nepal. This magnificent site is a testament to the rich cultural and architectural heritage of the Nepali people and has been a center of power and governance for centuries. The square's stunning architecture and intricate ornamentation are a reflection of the deep artistic and engineering capabilities of the Nepali people. Its ornate palaces, temples, and shrines are adorned with intricate carvings, vibrant prayer flags, and ornate metalwork that depict sacred deities and symbols.

The site's significance as a cultural and historical icon has earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage list, further highlighting its profound importance in the Nepali and global cultural landscape. The square's central palace, which was once the seat of the Nepali monarchy, is now a museum that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Nepali people.

Bhaktapur

Bhaktapur, also known as Bhadgaon, translates into the city of devotees. It is an old city founded in the ninth century. It used to be one of the three Malla kingdoms in the Kathmandu Valley before the unification of Nepal. Located east of Kathmandu, the core areas of the city is inhabited by Newars who still follow age-old customs and tradition. Houses here are the best examples of Nepali stone and wooden craft. The 55-window Palace built in 1697, the five-storied Nyatapola Temple, the Kashi Biswanath Temple, and the Dattatreya Temple, among others, are the major attractions in Bhaktapur. Considered a living museum, one can witness ancient traditions carried out even today as they were centuries ago in many areas of the city such as in Potters Square where the local potters use age-old techniques to make clay pots. You can catch them in action at Taumadhi Square.

Patan Durbar Square

Patan is one of the cities of the Kathmandu Valley. It used to be an independent state before Nepal was unified. The city is best known for its artistic heritage. The city is surrounded by four Ashokan stupas built in four corners. The city is full of temples and monuments, bronze gateways, guardian deities and wonderful carvings, among others. The main palace has three courtyards -- Mul Chowk, Sundari Chowk and Keshav Narayan Chowk. Patan Museum and the golden temple of Hiranaya Varna Mahavihar are the other attractions in and around Durbar Square.

Need Travel Advice

Our global team of experts is here to assist you.