Overview
Bhaktapur — "City of Devotees" — is the most intact of the three medieval Newari kingdoms that once ruled the Kathmandu Valley, and many visitors consider it the most beautiful city in Nepal. Unlike Kathmandu's bustling Thamel district, Bhaktapur retains its ancient urban form: a maze of brick-paved lanes, carved wooden windows, courtyard temples, and communal water fountains where daily life continues much as it has for centuries.
This private day tour covers three principal squares — Durbar Square, Taumadhi Square (home to the five-storey Nyatapola Temple), and Pottery Square — with expert guide commentary on the history, mythology, and living culture of Newari civilisation. With a full day to explore, there is plenty of time to wander the brick lanes, watch daily life unfold, and browse the local craft workshops at a relaxed pace.
Highlights
- Bhaktapur Durbar Square — UNESCO World Heritage palace complex
- Nyatapola Temple — Nepal's tallest pagoda (5 storeys, 30 m)
- Pottery Square — traditional potters at work in an open courtyard
- 55-Window Palace — the finest carved wooden facade in Nepal
- Experience living Newari culture and everyday life up close
- Just ~40 minutes from Kathmandu — an easy World Heritage outing
Itinerary
Kathmandu → Bhaktapur (~40 min drive)
Depart Kathmandu by private vehicle and head east to Bhaktapur. On arrival, begin exploring the old town on foot with your guide.
Durbar Square & the 55-Window Palace
Tour Bhaktapur's central Durbar Square, taking in the 55-Window Palace and the surrounding temples and the architectural beauty of the Malla era. The finely carved "Peacock Window" is considered one of the masterpieces of Newari woodcraft.
Pottery Square & Taumadhi Square
Visit Pottery Square, where potters still spin their wheels by hand, then walk to Taumadhi Square, dominated by the soaring five-storey Nyatapola Temple. Wander the back lanes at leisure — with the scent of spices in the air and children peering from carved windows, the whole town is picture-perfect.
Bhaktapur → Return to Kathmandu
Return by private vehicle to Kathmandu. Timing is flexible, so the day can easily be combined — with an early mountain flight, the Nagarkot sunrise, or a second World Heritage site in the afternoon — on request.
Note: lunch is not included. Your guide will gladly recommend a restaurant to suit your taste (guests are asked to cover the guide's lunch).
Includes & Excludes
✓ Included
- Private vehicle (Kathmandu round trip)
- Licensed English-speaking guide
- Bhaktapur entrance fee (foreign visitor)
- Temple & palace entry fees
- All government taxes
✕ Excluded
- International flights
- Nepal visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Meals & personal expenses
- Tips for guide and driver
- Personal shopping
Gallery
Cancellation Policy
| Notice Period | Refund |
|---|---|
| 60 days or more | 90% refunded |
| 45 – 59 days | 75% refunded |
| 30 – 44 days | 50% refunded |
| 15 – 29 days | 25% refunded |
| 14 days or fewer | No refund |
| No show | No refund |