7 UNISCO World Heritage Site tour

This tour covers all seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites within the Kathmandu Valley. UNESCO began recognizing cultural and natural heritage sites here in 1979. The sites include Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath, the three Durbar Squares (Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur), and Changunarayan Temple. Outside the valley, Sagarmatha National Park and Lumbini (birthplace of Buddha) are also UNESCO sites—Lumbini for cultural heritage and Sagarmatha for natural heritage.

Though there are four UNESCO-listed areas in the valley, they include a total of seven distinct sites. This tour focuses on the cultural highlights of the Kathmandu Valley and can typically be completed in two days, unless extended time is desired at each site.

Start with a panoramic view of the city from Swayambhunath Temple, where Hindu and Buddhist cultures blend. The area is known for its sacred monkeys—interesting to observe but best not to feed or approach closely. Locals believe the monkeys are divine, feeding them morning and evening.

Next, visit Kathmandu Durbar Square to explore medieval architecture, palaces, temples, and the Living Goddess Kumari. Then, head to Boudhanath Stupa for lunch at a rooftop restaurant with views of the world’s largest stupa. Colorful prayer flags, monasteries, and spinning prayer wheels add to the ambiance.

Pashupatinath Temple offers a glimpse into Hindu rituals, including cremation ceremonies. Visitors can meet sadhus (holy men), learn about Shiva linga, and join the evening Aarati ceremony.

On the second day, start at Patan Durbar Square, home to a rich museum, the Golden Temple, and Mahabouddha Temple. Next, explore Bhaktapur Durbar Square, known for its Newari architecture, wood carvings, pottery, and local dishes like Juju Dhau (special yogurt). Highlights include Nyatapole Temple, the 55-Window Palace, and Siddhi Laxmi Temple.

End your tour at Changunarayan, the valley’s oldest temple, located on a hilltop with scenic surroundings and traditional villages along the way.

This 7 UNESCO Sites Tour offers a deep cultural and historical experience of the Kathmandu Valley. It can be completed in two days, though 3–4 days are recommended for a more immersive visit.