Day 1 – Arrival in Kathmandu
When you arrive in Kathmandu, you’ll be greeted by your driver and whisked away to your accommodation. We have three different hotel options in Kathmandu, giving you the chance to travel in your own personal style. Stay in an authentic and welcoming hotel decorated in traditional Nepalese style just outside the chaos of the city centre. Or choose a budget hotel in the heart of bohemian Thamel, right in the thick of the backpacker action. The rooms are small and cosy with traditional Tibetan touches. For an extra splash of style, try our beautifully restored heritage hotel on the edge of the centre, with several atmospheric courtyards, fountains and a tempting swimming pool.
Day 2 – Kathmandu – city tour
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.
Days 3-4 – Bhaktapur, Patan and departure
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’ll grab some 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. The following day you’ll check out of your hotel and continue your journey through Nepal.
Accommodation
For this bite-sized trip we offer the following options
Upgrade to our 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.