Kathmandu, Nepal 7 Day Itinerary

Kathmandu 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Settling In

  • Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu.
  • Check into your hotel (Recommended: Dwarikas Hotel or Yak & Yeti Hotel for luxury, and Hotel Manang or Hotel Nepal for budget options).
  • Rest and acclimatize. Familiarize yourself with the local area.
  • Evening: Explore Thamel, a vibrant tourist district filled with shops, restaurants, and bars.
  • Things to Know: Nepali Rupee (NPR) is the official currency. English is widely spoken. Be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Day 2: Kathmandu Durbar Square & Swayambhunath

  • Morning: Visit Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing palaces, temples, and ancient artifacts.
  • Afternoon: Head to Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), offering panoramic views of Kathmandu valley and religious significance.
  • Evening: Explore Patan Durbar Square, another UNESCO site known for its rich Newari architecture.
  • Dinner at Seto Machan in Patan, serving authentic Nepalese cuisine.

Day 3: Pashupatinath & Boudhanath

  • Morning: Visit Pashupatinath Temple, a significant Hindu temple on the holy Bagmati River.
  • Afternoon: Spend your time at Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world.
  • Evening: Wander around local streets and meet the locals.
  • Dinner at Mother’s Kitchen, a popular restaurant serving delicious vegetarian food.

Day 4: Bhaktapur & Changu Narayan

  • Morning: Travel to Bhaktapur, an ancient city showcasing medieval architecture, pottery, and woodcarving.
  • Afternoon: Visit Changu Narayan Temple, one of the oldest temples in Kathmandu Valley.
  • Evening: Return to Kathmandu and relax.
  • Dinner at Newa Osta, a restaurant specializing in Newari cuisine.

Day 5: Nagarkot Hill Station

  • Early Morning: Depart for Nagarkot, famous for its sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayas.
  • Daytime: Enjoy the scenic beauty, hike around the hill station, or visit Changunarayan Temple (if not visited earlier).
  • Evening: Return to Kathmandu.
  • Dinner at Restaurant Yak & Yeti, a fine dining restaurant with an impressive international and local menu.

Day 6: Explore Thamel & Shopping

  • Morning: Visit the Tibetan Refugee Center in Kirtipur, offering beautiful views of Kathmandu valley and traditional Thangka painting workshops.
  • Afternoon: Spend your time exploring Thamel for shopping, trying local street food, or visiting rooftop cafes.
  • Evening: Farewell dinner at The Courtyard Cafe in Thamel, known for its cozy atmosphere and great food.

Day 7: Departure

  • Spend the day at leisure until your departure flight from Tribhuvan International Airport.
  • Don’t forget to purchase souvenirs, exchange any remaining NPR, and leave a tip for good service.

Transportation

  • Taxis, rickshaws, and local buses are available throughout Kathmandu. You can also hire private cars or vans for daily tours.

Travel Tips

  • Haggle prices at markets and shops but respect the artisans’ work.
  • Always ask for the price before taking a taxi or rickshaw ride.
  • Carry water, sunscreen, and a hat during outdoor activities.
  • Respect local culture and traditions when visiting temples and monasteries.
  • Keep your belongings secure to avoid pickpocketing.
  • Enjoy your trip to Kathmandu!