Seven World Heritage Site Tour of Kathmandu - 1 day

 Kathmandu Durbar Square

Kathmandu Durbar Square is one of the three ancient durbar squares in Kathmandu valley, built by Malla kings during the 15th and 16th centuries. Within the immediate area of this world-famous site, there are Kumari Bahal or the House of the Living Goddess, Hanuman Dhoka Palace Museum,Taleju Temple, Mul Chowk, Nasal Chowk, Nau Table Durbar, and the shrine of Kaal Bhairav. Inside the Hanuman Dhoka Palace are courtyards and living quarters of the Malla and Shah Kings.  

Swyambunath Stupa - The Monkey Temple

The must-visit place in Kathmandu is Swayambhunath Stupa, one of the oldest religious sites in Nepal. Also called the Monkey temple, Swayambhunath Stupa sits atop a hill and overlooks the Kathmandu valley offering a bird-eye view of most parts of Kathmandu valley. Swayambhunath can be reached within 30 minutes by bus. The enormous whitewashed dome with the all-seeing eyes of Buddha is visible from miles away. Climb 365 stone steps to the stupa and admire the splendid view it has to offer.  

 Pashupatinath Temple

Visit the holiest site for Hindus and pay homage to Lord Shiva at Pashupatinath Temple. Lying beside the sacred Bagmati River, the gilded pagoda-roofed temple dates back to 400AD. A large bronze statue of Nandi the ‘Bull,’ the sacred vahana(vehicle) of Lord Shiva, guards the entrance. The Hindu cremation site of Arya Ghat lies below the temple. Hindus believe that cremating the dead at Arya Ghat helps the dead attain salvation.  

 Boudhanath Stupa

One of the largest stupas in the world, Boudhanath Stupa is truly a gem in Kathmandu, attracting hundreds of travelers every day. Lying on the eastern outskirts of Kathmandu, Boudhanath Stupa is a major tourist attraction in Kathmandu. Built in the 5th century, Boudhanath Stupa was classified as a UNESCO world heritage site in 1979. Walk around the white stupa in a clockwise direction spinning the prayer wheels, and soaking in the peaceful ambiance of the stupa.  

 Patan Durbar Square

Patan Durbar Square is yet another UNESCO world heritage site inside Kathmandu valley. Famous for its stunning display of Newari architecture, Patan Durbar Square welcomes hundreds of travelers every day. It boasts several temples, palaces, and courtyards. Most of the structures date back to the Malla era. Patan Palace, which now houses a museum, was a residence of the Malla kings. There are 136 bahals or courtyards and 55 major temples in and around Patan Durbar Square.   

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Durbar Square is a  UNESCO world heritage site in Bhaktapur. This square is located 13km east of Kathmandu and houses four distinct squares: Durbar Square, Taumadhi Square, Dattatreya Square, and Pottery Square. 55 window palace, Nyatapola Temple, and Lion's Gate are among the major attraction of this square. The brick-laden walkways, carved-out woodwork, pagoda-style temples, and monuments awe first-time visitors. Stroll around pottery square for a unique experience.

 Changu Narayan Temple

Visit the ancient Hindu temple of Changu Narayan, believed to be the oldest temple in Kathmandu valley. Located deep in a verdant forest, the Changu Narayan temple is built in the two-tiered pagoda style. The temple dates back to the Licchavi period (450 AD-750 AD) and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, one of the Hinduism deities. On the way to temple, you can visit Changu Museum, which is supposedly the first private museum in Nepal. The courtyard of the temple is dotted with extraordinary carvings, stone, and metal artifacts dating back to Licchavi and Malla periods. Walk around and soak in the peaceful ambiance, gazing at the historical works of art. Finally, wrap up your tour with a drive back to your hotel.