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Kathmandu Half Day Tour

Name: Kathmandu Half Day Tour
Brand: Kathmandu Half Day Tour
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5 (1374 reviews)

Duration

3 hrs

Age Range 10 - 70 years

Destination Nepal

Activities Tour in Nepal

Arrival City

Kathmandu

Accomodation

None

Best Season

Spring and Autumn

Free Cancellation

30% Cancellation Charge (Personal Reason)

Guide

Guided Tour

Insurance Coverage

Covered

Language

English, Deutsch

Maximum Altitude

1,400 m

Meals

Breakfast

Transportation

Private/Public Vehicle

Wifi

Available

Hotel Transfer

Available

1374 reviews

Talk to Mr. Mani

(Speaks English, Chinese, Hindi, Nepali)

+977-9851029614

{"time":1745223526,"blocks":[{"id":"GVJ3Hut9ZI","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, carries a very ancient history. Naturally, the place also has many travel destinations due to its age-long culture and tradition. If you are in <a href=\"https:\/\/greatadventuretreks.com\/trip\/kathmandu-valley-tour\/\">Kathmandu<\/a> and need help navigating these places, do not worry. We at <a href=\"https:\/\/greatadventuretreks.com\/contact-us\/\">Great Adventure Treks<\/a> bring you a Kathmandu half day tour<\/b> package. This package brings you short tours around the destinations of Kathmandu that you can finish in less than a day."}},{"id":"ZrkxHRA4aX","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Our package offers a half day tour around the Kathmandu Durbar Square and the Swayambhunath temple<\/b>. These two places are quite close in the vicinity and can be toured within 5 hours<\/b>. We will leave early morning after breakfast and explore the locals of Durbar Square. Then we will head to the Swayambhunath temple after lunch and be done touring before noon."}},{"id":"d6VVLFZcJE","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The Kathmandu Durbar square is an ancient royal palace built during the Malla rule of Nepal. It has various temples and historical artifacts of great importance. Touring and learning about the Durbar Square is a must-do when visiting Kathmandu. A mere 2.3 km<\/b> away from Durbar Square lies the famous Swayambhunath temple. Swayambhunath is a religious structure lying on a hill in the valley. The site offers beautiful views of the overall city."}},{"id":"NDkTa2XvEL","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Our Kathmandu half day tour package includes breakfast, pick-up, and drop-off at your hotel, guides, snacks, etc. Stick with us to know more about this package."}},{"id":"Aaj73BhqfW","type":"header","data":{"text":"Highlights of Kathmandu Half Day Tour","level":2}},{"id":"OQ2WiAxYrx","type":"list","data":{"style":"unordered","items":[{"content":"Visit the ancient Nepali palace of Kathmandu Durbar Square,","items":[]},{"content":"Observe Kathmandu city from the hilltop of Swayambhunath,","items":[]},{"content":"Get a short tour of the city without any prep,","items":[]},{"content":"Tour with a guide and learn about these destination\u2019s history, architecture, and significance,","items":[]},{"content":"Have pickup and drop off services from and to your hotel room for the tour,","items":[]},{"content":"Managed entrance fees and tickets for both destinations,","items":[]},{"content":"Breakfast, lunch, and snacks throughout the day.","items":[]}]}}],"version":"2.31.0-rc.7"}

{"time":1749717929871,"blocks":[{"id":"Wvspy4azvL","type":"header","data":{"text":"Places to visit on Half Day tour in Kathmandu:","level":2}},{"id":"o7Wy9xNJhn","type":"header","data":{"text":"1. Kathmandu durbar square Half Day tour","level":3}},{"id":"RwHFKrdxzu","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The Kathmandu Durbar Square is an&nbsp;ancient royal palace<\/b>&nbsp;used during the Malla dynasty of Nepal. The place and its vicinity are also popular as Basantapur Durbar or Hanuman Dhoka. The palace lies in the center of the city and houses one of the best historical artifacts in the country."}},{"id":"TIThgPFnxu","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"One of the Durbar Square gates, Hanuman Dhoka, was&nbsp;built back during the Lichhavi period<\/b>. This was approximately during the&nbsp;4th to 8th<\/b> century AD<\/b>. Hence, the complex has a long and ancient history."}},{"id":"yLvHFoMzcC","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The gate, including the palace, was a part of King Pratap Malla\u2019s property since the 17th century. The Mallas built various structures in the place, including a myriad of palaces, temples, and courtyards. The palace hoses more than&nbsp;50 temples<\/b>. Currently, all these structures are used as a museum and a tool for observing history and culture."}},{"id":"09Y7MUH1pd","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The fascinating part of the square is the huge number of temples. The area has around 50 temples, with the Taleju Bhawani temple being the titular one. The palace has two courtyards, an outer and an inner section. The outer section houses Kasthamandap, Kumari Ghar, and Shiva-Parvati Temple. The inner section, on the other hand, has the Hanuman Dhoka and the prime palace. Most of the palace has been transformed into museums dedicated to the Shah kings. You are open to visiting these places every day of the week."}},{"id":"SM50MJ8tYT","type":"header","data":{"text":"These are some of the major attraction sites of the Kathmandu Durbar Square:","level":3}},{"id":"3Bbj4McZtM","type":"header","data":{"text":"Kumari Temple","level":4}},{"id":"29VQhbQIGe","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The temple was built in the&nbsp;17th century<\/b>&nbsp;with highly skilled Nepali craftsmen. The temple is the place of residence for the Kumari goddess of Kathmandu. Kumari is a young girl who is believed to be a living goddess. This temple is primarily closed but open to the public once a year during Dashain."}},{"id":"XXokbKHUp8","type":"header","data":{"text":"Taleju Temple","level":4}},{"id":"o-SMSea8py","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The temple is the most significant part of the square. It is the tallest among all the other temples and structures of the square. King Mahendra of the Malla dynasty built the temple in&nbsp;1549 AD<\/b>.&nbsp;This temple is also closed for the most part of the year and opened during Dashain."}},{"id":"5bKfGcVQK_","type":"header","data":{"text":"Jagannath Temple","level":4}},{"id":"B0Eexe7ZAG","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"This temple was built back in the&nbsp;16th century<\/b>&nbsp;by the Mallas. The temple is popular for having engrossing wooden structures of erotic figures."}},{"id":"Y33bf6FqmW","type":"header","data":{"text":"Kal Bhairab","level":4}},{"id":"t4EVRL7yIc","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Kal Bhairab is a statue carved out of stone to represent the Lord Shiva of Hindu mythology. It is one of the largest statues built during the&nbsp;17th<\/b> century.<\/b>"}},{"id":"8HUCtfa-RM","type":"header","data":{"text":"Swet Bhairav","level":4}},{"id":"7640GO3S3F","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Swet Bhairav is another stature of lord Shiva housed in the square. The Bhairave temple is also primarily closed but open once a year. This happens at the time of August or September during Indra Jatra."}},{"id":"qzNNy5mung","type":"header","data":{"text":"Narsingha Statue","level":4}},{"id":"kXz-E7ah-B","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Narsingha is believed to be one of the avatars of Lord Vishnu. People believe he exists in his man-lion avatar, eviscerating a demon. This sort of statue stands in the square built in&nbsp;1673&nbsp;<\/b>by Pratap Malla. There also lies an inscription describing why this statue was built."}},{"id":"mUijTrABK2","type":"header","data":{"text":"Nasal Chowk","level":4}},{"id":"ohSEXe4us8","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The Nasal chowk is one of the courtyards of the palace. It lies inside the main entrance of the prime part of the royal palace, where the kings lived. The courtyard was built by the Malla dynasty. But the succeeding rulers built many more structures in its vicinity. This courtyard was used for the coronation of Nepali kings up until 2001."}},{"id":"yTz-765jMd","type":"header","data":{"text":"Shisha Baithak","level":4}},{"id":"7Aq-_71l5Z","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Shisha Baithak is essentially just a patio where you can see the Malla thrones. Along with that, you can also find pictures and paintings of the Shah kings."}},{"id":"7bzMZbcKHm","type":"header","data":{"text":"Tribhuwan Museum","level":4}},{"id":"G3kC-iQ4DC","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Tribhuwan Museum is a museum commemorating King Tribhuwan as well as the recent kings, Mahendra and Birendra. The museum showcases the king\u2019s bedroom, study, and personal belongings. It provided an intimate look inside the king\u2019s lifestyle. You can also find the king\u2019s boxing gloves and a walking staff with a sword hidden inside. You can find a the king\u2019s dusty old empty aquarium. Various thrones are exhibited along with many photographs post-hunting and coin collection."}},{"id":"jNmpx8Yx4q","type":"header","data":{"text":"2. Swyambhunath temple Half Day tour","level":3}},{"id":"n3En_Ga7ks","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Swayambhu is a historical religious structure that lies on a hill to the west of the Kathmandu valley. The structure is essentially a&nbsp;Stupa with<\/b> the eyes of Buddha<\/b>. Between the eyes is a Devanagari one painted to replicate a nose. It consists of myriad shrines and temples of ancient Nepal. Some structures of the Swayambhunath temples&nbsp;date back to the Licchavi dynasty<\/b>&nbsp;of Nepal. The temple and its original artifacts also house a Tibetan monastery, museum, and library."}},{"id":"8AAgO3qaln","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The temple and its vicinity have various shops, restaurants as well as hotels. You can browse through various arts and jewelry and even enjoy food and drinks. There are two ways to enter this temple. One is the long steep staircase that leads you to the temple\u2019s main entrance at the east. The other is the entrance in the southwest face of the hill."}},{"id":"HyyrpQneTD","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The fundamental structure of the stupa is a&nbsp;dome-shaped base<\/b>. On the top of the dome is a cube-like structure that has a painting of Buddha\u2019s eyes. Every four sides of the cube has a Buddhist structure called torana in a pentagonal shape. There are thirteen levels above each of the Torana, and each level has a small space. There are Gajurs present in each of these spaces."}},{"id":"jPYMpIQ90j","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"There are various mythologies regarding the existence of this complex. One of them is the Swayambhu Purana. This mythology says that Kathmandu was once a huge lake with a lotus in its midst. The deity,&nbsp;Manjushree<\/b>, had a vision of the lotus and traveled to worship it. Upon arrival, he envisioned that the vicinity would be a great area for settlement. So he went up to the hill of Chovar and cut a gorge to drain the water out of the lake. This led to the formation of the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/greatadventuretreks.com\/trip\/kathmandu-valley-tour-vehicle\/\">Kathmandu valley<\/a>. The lotus that gave Manjushree this enlightenment is believed to be where the Swayambhunath temple lies."}},{"id":"NckMOXJ_sJ","type":"header","data":{"text":"3. Bouddha and Pashupatinath Temple Half Day tour:","level":3}},{"id":"-E8pLRXQNc","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"A half-day tour to Bouddhanath Stupa and Pashupatinath Temple provides a profound glimpse into the spiritual and cultural fabric of Kathmandu. Starting with Bouddhanath, you\u2019ll witness one of the world\u2019s largest Buddhist stupas, an impressive white dome crowned with a golden spire and Buddha\u2019s all-seeing eyes. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the heart of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal, drawing monks, pilgrims, and locals who circumambulate the stupa and spin prayer wheels in a meditative rhythm. Surrounded by vibrant prayer flags and lined with monasteries, cafes, and shops selling traditional Tibetan goods, Bouddhanath offers a serene yet vibrant atmosphere that transports you into the essence of Buddhism\u2019s teachings on peace and compassion."}},{"id":"KGHPgtnchh","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"From Bouddhanath, the journey continues to Pashupatinath Temple, Nepal\u2019s most revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River, Pashupatinath is a sprawling complex of shrines, temples, and cremation ghats, where Hindu rituals are performed with devotion and reverence. While non-Hindus cannot enter the main temple, the complex offers plenty to explore, including viewing areas to respectfully observe traditional cremation ceremonies along the river. The rich history and deeply spiritual ambiance at Pashupatinath make it one of Kathmandu\u2019s most unique experiences, giving visitors a rare look into Hindu beliefs on life, death, and the afterlife. This tour reveals two of Kathmandu\u2019s most meaningful sites, each providing an enlightening and unforgettable window into Nepal\u2019s rich spiritual heritage."}},{"id":"FZZf-Uqp7d","type":"header","data":{"text":"4. Swambhunath and Kathmandu Durbar Square Half Day tour:","level":3}},{"id":"CGgTQz2lB5","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"A half-day tour to Swayambhunath Stupa and Kathmandu Durbar Square offers a captivating journey through two of Kathmandu\u2019s most iconic and historical landmarks. Known as the \u201cMonkey Temple,\u201d Swayambhunath is a hilltop sanctuary that combines Buddhist and Hindu symbolism, offering panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley and an ancient stupa with Buddha\u2019s eyes watching over the city. Walking up its stone steps, visitors are greeted by colorful prayer flags, statues, and the playful monkeys that give the site its nickname. The tour continues to Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the heart of historic Kathmandu. This bustling square is home to the former royal palace, ornate pagoda-style temples, and courtyards that reflect Newari architecture and artistry. From the majestic Hanuman Dhoka Palace to the residence of the living goddess, Kumari, Kathmandu Durbar Square immerses visitors in the city\u2019s rich cultural heritage, offering a vivid look into Nepal\u2019s royal history and vibrant traditions."}},{"id":"sAzXWf_pl8","type":"header","data":{"text":"5. Patan Durbar Square Half Day tour:","level":3}},{"id":"r94Ge3NZpR","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"A half-day tour of Patan Durbar Square transports visitors to the heart of Lalitpur\u2019s rich cultural heritage, showcasing one of Kathmandu Valley\u2019s most exquisite examples of Newari architecture and artistry. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is filled with centuries-old temples, palaces, and statues that tell stories of Nepal\u2019s Malla dynasty and their devotion to art and religion. The former royal palace, now a museum, is the highlight of the square, housing fascinating artifacts and intricate wood and metal carvings. Surrounding the palace, the Krishna Temple, Hiranya Varna Mahavihar (Golden Temple), and other shrines reveal a harmonious blend of Hindu and Buddhist traditions unique to Patan. The square is alive with local artisans, bustling markets, and religious ceremonies, offering a vibrant experience that brings Nepal\u2019s cultural heritage to life."}},{"id":"P_020jJMWZ","type":"header","data":{"text":"6. Bhaktapur Durbar Square Half Day tour:","level":3}},{"id":"OU4lp4m5kK","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"A half-day tour of Bhaktapur Durbar Square offers a fascinating glimpse into one of Nepal\u2019s best-preserved medieval cities, rich with artistry and history. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bhaktapur Durbar Square is known for its stunning pagoda-style temples, intricately carved wooden structures, and ancient royal courtyards that showcase the architectural brilliance of the Malla dynasty. Walking through the square, visitors encounter iconic landmarks like the 55-Window Palace, Nyatapola Temple, and Vatsala Temple, each bearing unique historical and cultural significance. The city\u2019s vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by local artisans crafting pottery, weaving, and carving, keeping Bhaktapur\u2019s living heritage alive. With its traditional lifestyle, centuries-old monuments, and rich Newari culture, Bhaktapur Durbar Square provides an unforgettable journey into Nepal\u2019s past, offering an authentic taste of the country\u2019s cultural roots."}},{"id":"TQ7iH0FJD1","type":"header","data":{"text":"7. Pashupatinath Temple Half Day tour:","level":3}},{"id":"t8UB-dfhWZ","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"A half-day tour to Pashupatinath Temple immerses visitors in the profound spirituality and rich cultural traditions of one of Nepal\u2019s holiest Hindu sites. Situated on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River, Pashupatinath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is revered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As one of the oldest temples in Kathmandu, its architecture and artistry are breathtaking, with pagoda-style structures, intricate wood carvings, and vibrant statues reflecting centuries of devotion. While non-Hindus are not permitted inside the main temple, the surrounding complex offers much to explore, including smaller shrines, the revered cremation ghats, and the spiritual rituals performed daily. From observing sadhus (Hindu holy men) and ceremonial practices to experiencing the intense energy and devotion of local worshippers, a visit to Pashupatinath Temple provides a powerful insight into Nepal\u2019s religious life and beliefs, leaving a lasting impression of its spiritual essence."}},{"id":"9r7XdHfYw0","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Similar trips you may like:<\/b>"}},{"id":"SiVyyGED_Q","type":"list","data":{"style":"unordered","items":[{"content":"<a href=\"https:\/\/greatadventuretreks.com\/best-hikes-near-kathmandu\/\">Best Hikes Near Kathmandu Valley<\/a>","items":[]},{"content":"A Day Tour in Kathmandu","items":[]},{"content":"<a href=\"https:\/\/greatadventuretreks.com\/trip\/kathmandu-world-heritage-sites-tour\/\">Kathmandu World Heritage Sites Tour<\/a>","items":[]}]}}],"version":"2.31.0-rc.7"}

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Reviews

1049 reviews

Oilcut

Aug 25, 2025

Good experience in Buthan tour

I joined the tour of Buthan for 3 nights. Although the price is high because I am in a solo trip, the quality is good! Buthan is the cleanest country in the world! You don’t need to worry about anything just be happy and excited to join the tour! I just went for 3nights-tour, but I did visit Paro, Thimpu, Punakha ! Although not every sighting sites that would visit, the important sites would not miss! This is my second time join the tour in this travel agency, and I was satiated with it every time ! They will handle everything well.

xing p

Aug 24, 2025

Amazing treking and very helpful s ta f f.

We finished 20 days ACt trekking it was amaging . The great adventure treks and expedition is really great. The owner is amazing ，He can speak Chinese very perfectly ， He is very kind and polite . First I want to thanks him for amaging this trekking. The guide and potter they are very kind helpful. In 20 days they care us like family member. I will definetly come here next time to finish EBC. I am really excited for that.

ZhengHeng W

Aug 23, 2025

Amazing trips in Nepal 🤩

It was our first time in Nepal, and we spent 7 wonderful days visiting Kathmandu and Pokhara. Sudam was an excellent guide — professional, friendly, and very thoughtful. He introduced us to local restaurants and unique spots, making the trip more authentic. Thanks to him, we enjoyed not only the amazing scenery but also the local lifestyle. Unforgettable memories! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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5 Stars 325 reviews

md prijom mia

Aug 26, 2025

it was fantastic trip in Nepal, we enjoyed ,thanks for all

Derin Eriş

Aug 25, 2025

Çok güzeldi. Yapabileceğimiz her şeyi yaptık. Bize çok yardımcı oldular. Kesinlikle öneririm.

J J WANG

Aug 23, 2025

Very nice 😍😍😍 The tour guide is very nice and considerate.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Expand all

What is the ticket price of Kathmandu Durbar Square?

The entry fee for Kathmandu Durbar Square is NPR 1000 or around USD 10 for foreigners. SAARC nationals can visit the site by paying just NPR 150. The entry fee is not charged if a child below the age of 10 is traveling with you.

What is famous in Kathmandu Durbar Square?

Places like Hanuman Dhoka, Taleju Temple, Kal and Swet Bhairav temple, Taleju temple, and Jagannath temple are famous here. Shishal Baithak, Nasal Chowk, and Tribhuwan museum are also popular places to visit.

Why do people go to Kathmandu Durbar Square?

People are intrigued by the Kathmandu Durbar Square as it is enlisted in the UNESCO world heritage sites. Most of the structures of the square age are more than 400 years old and have a great significance.

Why are there three durbar squares in Nepal?

Nepal has three durbar squares due to the segregation of one generation of Malla siblings. They ruled over different parts of the valley and established their own palace. These palaces are now a historical complex that we call “Durbar Square”.

How much is the entry fee for the Swayambhunath Temple?

The entrance fee for Swayambhunath is NPR 200 if you’re a foreigner. But SAARC nationals can enter the temple with a ticket of NPR 50.

What time to visit Swayambhu?

The best time to visit the Swayambhunath temple is early mornings or evenings. The view of sunrise and sunset is mesmerizing from the hilltop where Swayambhu lies. You can see the entirety of the valley from Swaymabhu.

How many stairs are there in Swayambhu?

You can find two stairs leading you to Swayambhu. There is one very steep staircase leading you to the entrance of Swayambhu. A walk from the main road to the entrance will take approximately 350 steps. The walk is relatively easy but is quite steep. There is also another staircase lying on the southwest face of the hill.

Why do people visit Swayambhu?

People visit the stupa because it is an emblem of faith and peace among Hindus and Buddhists. You can find various Hindu temples on this Buddhist site. The stupa is essentially called temple these days.

1374 reviews

Talk to Mr. Mani

(Speaks English, Chinese, Hindi, Nepali)

+977-9851029614

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Kathmandu Half Day Tour

Cost Includes

Cost Excludes

Reviews

Good experience in Buthan tour

Amazing treking and very helpful s ta f f.

Amazing trips in Nepal 🤩

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ticket price of Kathmandu Durbar Square?

What is famous in Kathmandu Durbar Square?

Why do people go to Kathmandu Durbar Square?

Why are there three durbar squares in Nepal?

How much is the entry fee for the Swayambhunath Temple?

What time to visit Swayambhu?

How many stairs are there in Swayambhu?

Why do people visit Swayambhu?

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