Kathmandu: Ancient City Kirtipur & Pharping Monastery Tour

Discover the ancient wonders of Kathmandu's Kirtipur and Pharping Monastery, where rich cultural heritage and mystical caves await your exploration.

Kathmandu’s ancient treasures come alive on the Kirtipur and Pharping Monastery Tour. Travelers can discover the historic Bagh Bhairav and Uma Maheshwor temples in Kirtipur, then explore the revered Pharping Samye Ling Monastery. Along the way, they’ll uncover the mystical Asura and Yangleshö caves linked to Guru Rinpoche. With private transportation and an expert guide, this 5-hour exploration offers a chance to experience Nepal’s rich cultural heritage. What more awaits on this captivating journey?

Key Points

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  • This tour explores the ancient city of Kirtipur and the sacred site of Pharping, showcasing Nepal’s rich cultural and historical heritage.
  • Priced at $55 per person for a 5-hour tour, with hotel pickup, private guide, and air-conditioned transportation included.
  • Highlights include visits to temples, caves, and the Pharping Samye Ling Monastery, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage destination.
  • Kirtipur is known for its narrow alleys, traditional Newari houses, and 17th-century temples, while Pharping is associated with Guru Rinpoche.
  • Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the tour offers a seamless booking experience with the option to skip ticket lines.
You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

kathmandu-ancient-city-kirtipur-pharping-monastery-tour

The Kathmandu tour offers visitors a chance to explore the ancient city of Kirtipur and the sacred site of Pharping.

Uncover the ancient wonders of Kirtipur and the sacred Pharping as you embark on this captivating Kathmandu tour.

Priced from $55 per person, this 5-hour tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a private guide, air-conditioned transportation, and all taxes. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour highlights Kirtipur’s Bagh Bhairav and Uma Maheshwor temples, and Pharping’s Asura Cave and Yangleshö Cave. Visitors will also experience the Pharping Samye Ling Monastery.

Meals, drinks, tips, and donations aren’t included in the tour price.

Cultural and Historical Significance

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Kirtipur, an ancient city located 8 km southwest of Kathmandu, is rich in culture and history. Its narrow alleys and traditional Newari houses are a testament to its architectural heritage.

The 17th-century temples, such as the Bagh Bhairav and Uma Maheshwor, showcase the city’s deep-rooted religious traditions.

Pharping, situated 19 km south of Kathmandu, is a sacred site known for its monasteries and temples. It’s a pilgrimage destination for Buddhists, who come to visit sites like the Asura Cave and Yangleshö Cave, which are associated with the revered figure of Guru Rinpoche.

Tour Highlights

kathmandu-ancient-city-kirtipur-pharping-monastery-tour

As part of the tour, visitors can explore Kirtipur, a city rich in cultural heritage.

They’ll visit the Bagh Bhairav temple, one of the oldest in the area, and the Uma Maheshwor Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

The tour then continues to Pharping, a sacred site known for its monasteries and temples.

Visitors can explore the Asura Cave, where Guru Rinpoche meditated, and the Yangleshö Cave, where he attained enlightenment.

Visitors can explore the Asura Cave, where Guru Rinpoche meditated, and the Yangleshö Cave, where he attained enlightenment.

The highlight is experiencing the Pharping Samye Ling Monastery, one of Nepal’s largest, and learning about its spiritual traditions.

Inclusions

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a private guide, and private transportation with air conditioning.

All taxes are covered. Meals and drinks aren’t included, but tips, gratuities, and donations for the monastery are.

Guests can skip the ticket line and enjoy the tour with a live English-speaking guide.

The tour allows visitors to fully enjoy the cultural and spiritual traditions of Kirtipur and Pharping without worrying about logistics.

This comprehensive package ensures a seamless and enriching experience exploring these ancient and significant sites around Kathmandu.

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Booking Information

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When can guests check availability for starting times? Visitors can check availability for this tour’s starting times when booking.

The tour allows guests to skip the ticket line, ensuring a smooth start to the experience. The live tour guide is available in English, catering to those seeking an informative and engaging journey.

Guests can select the desired number of participants and the preferred date for booking. This flexibility allows travelers to customize their Kathmandu exploration according to their schedule and group size.

Travelers can customize their Kathmandu exploration by selecting the desired number of participants and preferred booking date.

The booking process is designed to provide a seamless planning experience for those interested in this cultural and historical tour.

What to Expect

Guests can expect a comprehensive exploration of Kathmandu’s rich cultural and historical heritage during this 5-hour guided tour.

The tour offers a unique opportunity to discover the ancient city of Kirtipur, known for its narrow alleys, traditional Newari houses, and 17th-century temples.

Plus, the tour includes a visit to the sacred site of Pharping, where guests can explore the Asura Cave, Yangleshö Cave, and the Pharping Samye Ling Monastery, one of Nepal’s largest monasteries.

The tour includes:

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off

  • Private tour guide

  • Private transportation with air conditioning

  • All taxes

Getting There

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To get to the starting point of the tour, guests can arrange for hotel pickup, which is included in the tour package.

The private transportation with air conditioning will take guests directly from their hotel to the ancient city of Kirtipur, about an 8-kilometer drive southwest of Kathmandu. The journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Once at the site, the private tour guide will lead guests through the narrow alleys and introduce them to the rich cultural and historical significance of Kirtipur before continuing on to the sacred site of Pharping, located 19 kilometers south of Kathmandu.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is generally allowed during the tour, though visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting the sites’ spiritual atmosphere. It’s always best to check with the tour guide for any specific guidelines or restrictions.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?

The tour operator allows customers to customize the itinerary to suit their preferences. Travelers can work with the guide to adjust the tour schedule and activities based on their interests and needs.

What Is the Dress Code for Visiting the Monastery?

The dress code for visiting the monastery typically requires modest, conservative attire. Visitors should wear long pants or skirts that cover the knees, and shirts that cover the shoulders. Guests may also be asked to remove shoes before entering sacred spaces.

Are There Any Physical Requirements for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any special physical requirements. Participants should be able to walk short distances and climb a few steps. The tour is suitable for most visitors, though those with mobility issues may find certain aspects challenging.

Can I Book the Tour for a Group Larger Than 10 People?

Yes, you can book the tour for a group larger than 10 people. The tour operator accommodates larger groups and provides private transportation to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all participants.

The Sum Up

This captivating tour showcases Kathmandu’s ancient treasures in Kirtipur and Pharping. Explore historic temples, visit a revered monastery, and discover mystical caves linked to Guru Rinpoche. With private transportation and an expert guide, travelers can enjoy Nepal’s rich cultural heritage for just $55 per person. It’s an opportunity to uncover the timeless wonders of this captivating destination.

You can check availability for your dates here: