• Bikramshila Mahavihar भगवान बहाल - This ancient Buddhist monument, cherished by the native Newar community and also known as Thambahil, is seldom visited by tourists. Interestingly, the bustling tourist area of Thamel derives its name from this historic site.
• Asan - Asan is Kathmandu’s oldest active market, where locals trade everyday items ranging from vegetables to clothing, and metal goods to spiritual artifacts. There’s a popular saying that at Asan Bazaar, you can find everything from ‘Salt to Gold!’
• Seto Machhindra Nath Temple - This temple is dedicated to a native deity of Kathmandu and Tibetan Buddhists, known as Avalokitesvara, the god of compassion. The shrine features 108 engraved icons of Avalokitesvara, representing all his major forms. Local devotees visit to seek blessings and hope for their wishes to be fulfilled.
• Itum Bahal - Once one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in ancient Kathmandu, the 11th-century Itum Bahal retains a section of its original monastic building and courtyards dedicated to the goddesses Tara and Manjushree. The area is rich with nearby monuments, and a small museum within the complex offers insights into local Newari art, architecture, and spiritual practices.
• Kathmandu Durbar Square - This 17th-century palace, once home to the kings of Nepal, exemplifies traditional Nepali art and architecture. The square is surrounded by various temples, including the Kumari Temple, which houses the living goddess Kumari.
• Kumari Chowk - Located within Kathmandu Durbar Square, the residence of Kumari, the Living Goddess, is a must-see. This 300-year-old artistic building showcases Nepal’s traditional art and architecture. Visitors may be fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of the living goddess, who occasionally appears to visitors and worshippers from her private chapel on the top floor of the Kumari Temple.
• Dharmakirti Shree Ghah Vihar - The tour continues from Kathmandu Durbar Square through the old town to this Buddhist Stupa complex known as Kathesimbu or Dharmakirti Vihara. The complex features a replica of the Swayambhu Stupa, a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists. It houses Buddhist monasteries from Tibetan, Newari Vajrayana, and Theravada traditions, making it a unique place to witness monasteries from different Buddhist sects.
• Cafe Mitra - Conclude the tour back in the tourist hub of Thamel at this delightful cafe. Enjoy a drink of your choice and reflect on the day’s experiences with your guide in a relaxed conversation.

• Private transportation
• Tea and coffee

• Entry Fee to Kathmandu Durbar Square Premises and Swayambhu Stupa
• Not mentioned in included section.

The Old Kathmandu Tour offers a unique experience, beginning right from the hotel lobby if staying in the tourist area of Thamel, or with a convenient 20-minute drive to the starting point.

As the adventure unfolds, participants will explore the core of Old Kathmandu with experienced local guides, discovering less-visited areas rich in ancient culture, lively markets, and sacred religious sites that date back over a thousand years. Enjoy the genuine rhythm of local life amidst historic Buddhist shrines and Hindu temples that often stand side by side.

The tour also includes a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kathmandu Durbar Square and the shrine of the living goddess, providing deep insights into Nepal’s rich heritage and history.

Conclude the journey by sharing a tea or coffee with the guide, engaging in a relaxed conversation to reflect on the experience. If there’s one tour to truly understand Kathmandu and Nepal, this is it!

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.