About this experience
Kathmandu is like a layered pie where different cultures seamlessly blend together without mixing. You will compare the Hindu and Buddhist neighborhoods, meet monks and sadhus, visit the king's palaces and the living goddess. You will also learn about the lives of modern Nepalese and understand what sets Kathmandu apart from other cities in the world.
What to expect
Thamel and ancient market
Our walk will start in the tourist Thamel area, famous for its souvenir shops, fabrics, tea, stones, and trekking clothing. Through the colorful inner streets, we will reach the authentic Asian Asan market, where you can buy some Himalayan salt and spices, visit a pottery shop, or admire colorful saris.
Secrets of Durbar Square
The atmosphere of Durbar Square is drastically different from the hustle of the market or the glamour of Thamel. It is a place of history, culture, and visual arts where you will hear about dignity and betrayal, victories and defeats. I will show you the adorned with explicit scenes Shiva temple, the huge Black Bhairava sculpture, and the palace where the living goddess Kumari resides - a little girl who sometimes peeks from the balcony.
Kathmandu at a glance
You will climb a hill where the history of Kathmandu began, observe the sacred Swayambhunath stupa, and enjoy a breathtaking view of the surrounding valley. I will tell you where exactly yogis have been living in these places for several centuries, how to find the gates to Shambhala, why the demoness Hariti protects mothers and children, and how to accumulate good karma.
The largest Nepalese stupa
You will visit the main pilgrimage site of Buddhists - Boudhanath stupa, hold singing bowls in your hands, explore the surrounding Tibetan community houses and ancient monasteries. Moreover, you will learn about thangka painting - the art of drawing sacred Buddhist images.
Pashupatinath temple-crematorium
You will see the golden Shiva temple on the banks of the sacred Bagmati river and the ghats - platforms right by the water where the deceased are cremated. If we come at sunset, we will witness the 'arati' - a ceremony of offering food, fire, and incense, a combination of the celebration of life with the sadness of death. Additionally, I will show you the hermitages of recluses who have renounced worldly life in the name of the spiritual path.
Logistical details
- Entrance tickets are not included in the tour price - $26 per person.
- The tour is on foot, and transportation between distant points will be by taxi - $15 per car.
- Food and drinks are at an additional cost.
- I recommend bringing a water bottle and dressing comfortably.
- Your tour will be conducted by me or another guide from our team.
