Bhaktapur Tour
Bhaktapur Tour Package
Bhaktapur, also known as Bhadgaon or the “City of Devotees,” is one of the three ancient royal cities in the Kathmandu Valley and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Just 13 km east of Kathmandu, this living museum showcases medieval Newari architecture, intricate wood carvings, and vibrant cultural traditions. Wander through the 55-window Palace in Durbar Square, marvel at the towering Nyatapola Temple, and witness traditional pottery-making in Taumadhi Square. This full-day guided tour from Kathmandu immerses you in Bhaktapur’s timeless charm, from sacred temples and courtyards to local markets buzzing with brass crafts and curd (juju dhau). Perfect for history enthusiasts and photographers, it offers a serene escape into Nepal’s royal past, with optional extensions to nearby sites like Changu Narayan Temple.
- UNESCO-listed Bhaktapur Durbar Square with its golden gates and lion-guarded entrances
- Majestic Nyatapola Temple, a five-story pagoda dedicated to Goddess Siddhi Lakshmi
- Exploration of the 55-Window Palace and National Art Gallery's erotic carvings
- Traditional pottery square (Potter's Square) with live demonstrations of clay crafts
- Sacred Dattatreya Temple complex and Peacock Window in the old town
- Taumadhi Square's Bhairavnath Temple and daily Newari rituals
- Local market strolls for handmade lokta paper, paubha paintings, and famous king curd
- Cultural insights into Newari festivals like Bisket Jatra (if seasonal)
Included
- Round-trip private transportation from Kathmandu (AC vehicle)
- Full-day guided tour with licensed English-speaking local guide
- All monument entry fees (Bhaktapur Development Fee: NPR 1,500/foreigner)
- Traditional Newari lunch at a heritage site
- Bottled water and all applicable taxes/service charges
Not Included
- Personal expenses (e.g., souvenirs, tips, extra snacks)
- Optional activities (e.g., rickshaw rides, art workshops)
- Travel insurance
- Gratuities for guide/driver (recommended NPR 500-1,000/group)
- Extensions to Changu Narayan or Nagarkot (extra cost)
Itinerary (Timeline)
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07:00 AMHotel Pickup in Kathmandu
Early morning departure from your Kathmandu hotel in private AC vehicle (45-min drive). Brief orientation on Newari history en route.
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08:00 AMArrival & Durbar Square Exploration
Enter Bhaktapur via the ancient Lion Gate. Guided tour of Durbar Square: 55-Window Palace, Taleju Temple, and Vatsala Temple remnants (earthquake restoration insights).
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10:00 AMNyatapola Temple & Taumadhi Square
Walk to Taumadhi Square for the iconic Nyatapola Temple climb (optional stairs) and Bhairavnath Temple. Observe street life and earthquake-resilient reconstructions.
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11:30 AMPottery & Crafts Village
Visit Potter's Square for live pottery demos and shopping. Explore Dattatreya Temple and its wood-carved Peacock Window.
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01:00 PMLunch Break
Enjoy authentic Newari thali (baji, choila, samay baji) at a local heritage restaurant overlooking the squares.
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02:00 PMNational Art Gallery & Free Time
Tour the National Art Gallery in the ex-palace for ancient manuscripts and sculptures. Free time for market browsing or curd tasting.
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04:00 PMReturn to Kathmandu
Depart Bhaktapur with photo stops. Arrival back at your hotel by 05:00 PM.
October to March ideal for clear skies and Newari festivals like Bisket Jatra (April). Expect 15-25°C; pack layers for mornings, hat/sunscreen, and walking shoes. Avoid monsoons (June-September) for slippery cobbles.
Yes, moderate walking (1-2 km on flat/uneven paths); rickshaws available for assistance. Temples have stairs, but main squares accessible. Kids enjoy interactive crafts; notify for slower pace or wheelchairs (limited in alleys).
Newari lunch (buffet-style: beaten rice, spicy meats, veggies). Vegetarian options plentiful; inform for vegan/gluten-free/allergies. No beef; focus on local grains and curd.
Full refund up to 48 hours before; 50% within 24 hours; no-show non-refundable. Book via website/email with 20% deposit—immediate confirmation. Entry fees collected on-site (cash preferred).