Day 1 – Arrival in Kathmandu
When you arrive in Kathmandu, your driver will be waiting to take you to your hotel. We’ve selected a small scale property with a warm welcome and an authentic local vibe. Once you’ve settled in head out for a stroll to get your first feel for the city and find somewhere to eat. We would recommend one of the many rooftop restaurants in Thamel, where you can try your first Nepalese thali.
Day 2 – City tour of Kathmandu
Today, you’ll explore Kathmandu with a local guide. First stopping at Swayambunath, the oldest Buddhist temple in the Kathmandu Valley. At the foot of a long stairway into the valley, you’ll the famous stupa painted with the eyes of Buddha, covered in rainbow prayer flags and curious monkeys. Next, you’ll continue to Bouddhanath temple, one of the largest stupas in the world, perched in the heart of ‘Little Tibet’. After lunch, you’ll head for Pashupatinath, the most sacred site in the city. Non-Hindus are not allowed to enter the temple complex, however if you cross the Bagmati River and take a seat on the stairs, you’ll have an extraordinary view of the ghats, as well as the ritual bathing and cremation pyres. The final stop is Durbar Square. Nestled in the thick of downtown Kathmandu, it’s crammed with temples and ancient palaces just waiting to be explored.
Day 3 – Discover Bhaktapur & Patan with a local guide
Today, you’ll visit the Kathmandu Valley with your guide and driver. First, you’ll set off for Bhaktapur, a medieval city that feels like one large open air museum. As large parts of Bhaktapur are pedestrian only, you can wander between the temples in peace. By late morning you’ll arrive in Patan, where you can grab lunch. Patan is known for its many ancient squares, where rice is laid out to dry and children run around with rustling paper kites. Seemingly untouched by time, it’s like stepping into a medieval time-warp. In the late afternoon return to Kathmandu.
If you prefer, instead of returning to Kathmandu we can arrange for you to stay overnight in a boutique hotel in Bhaktapur. Rooms are simple and comfortable, and the rooftop terrace offers views over the city’s temples and squares. Just ask your Travel Specialist to include this in your Travel Plan.
Day 4 – Depart Kathmandu
Today, you’ll depart Kathmandu and continue your Nepal adventure. For an insight into local life, we can arrange a homestay in a family home in the small town of Panauti. For a totally unique experience, spend time with the monks of Neydo Monastery. Or set off in search of the one-horned rhino in Chitwan National park.
Accommodation
For this bite-sized trip we offer the following options
Kings & Gods of the Valley - In Style accommodation
For this bite-sized trip we have an alternative option available for your accommodation. Our In-Style version is a boutique hotel with a welcoming vibe. The property combines traditional Newari design with modern comforts: carved woodwork, antique details and individually styled rooms full of character. When you’re not exploring, relax beside the swimming pool. It’s a characterful base that blends history, comfort and a surprisingly peaceful setting in the heart of the city. If you would like to upgrade your accommodation for this bite-size trip select our In Style option below.
We also have a selection of charming, boutique In Style properties that do not have a swimming pool. These hotels are a step up from our standard accommodation, but cost a little less than our In Style with pool options. Ask your Travel Specialist for more information.
Kings & Gods of the Valley - Special Stay accommodation
If you’re looking for something unique and extra special, upgrade to our special stay accommodation in Kathmandu. You’ll stay in a luxurious heritage hotel tucked away on a quiet corner of the city. From the moment you step inside, it’s clear this isn’t your usual hotel – every detail has been carefully crafted, from the carved wooden doors to the elegant, traditional Nepali décor. The rooms are spacious and peaceful, perfect for unwinding after exploring the city’s temples and markets. You can expect personalised service, warm hospitality and delicious food with a focus on local flavours. If you would like to upgrade your accommodation for this bite-size trip select our Special Stay option below.