10 Best Day Trips from Kathmandu
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Looking for the best day trips from Kathmandu? Here are all the best places to visit near Kathmandu!
I have been visiting Nepal since 2015 and had the chance to visit many places around Kathmandu as a day or weekend trip.
Nepal is a beautiful country and there are many options for a weekend getaway or day trips from Kathmandu.
Each destination listed here can be visited in one day. Some of these trips can be extended for 2-3 days (Nagarkot, Dhulikhel, Kakani) to make the most of the place.
Best Day Trips from Kathmandu: A Quick Quide
If you are in a hurry, don’t worry, here’s a quick list of the best day trips from Kathmandu:
- Bhaktapur: most famous for the Bhaktapur Durbar Square (World Heritage Site), Newari architecture and Newari food.
- Patan: most famous for the Patan Durbar Square (also a World Heritage Site), temples, Newari food.
- Chandragiri Hills and Cable Car: 10-minute cable car ride up to the hills. Mountain views on a clear day.
- Godawari Botanical Garden: Nepal’s oldest and largest botanical garden.
- Nagarkot: most famous for sunrise views of the Himalayas. Best for a 2-3 day trip.
Best Day Trips from Kathmandu
1. BHAKTAPUR
Best Things to Do in Bhaktapur
Best things: Bhaktapur Durbar Square, temples, Newari food.
Bhaktapur is only about 1 hour away from Kathmandu and it is one of the most popular day trips from Kathmandu. It can be visited for one day, however, if you have more time, it is nice to stay there for 2-3 days.
š Our top recommendation on where to stay in Bhaktapur: Hotel Rupakot and Rooftop Restaurant
Bhaktapur is known as a ‘living museum’ as the temples have become part of every day life. (e.g. temples turned into cafes and restaurants).
The Bhaktapur Durbar Square is one of theĀ 7 UNESCO World Heritage SitesĀ in the Kathmandu Valley and there are other beautiful temples and hidden gems to be discovered during a visit to Bhaktapur.
For more Bhaktapur travel guide, check out:
How to Get from Kathmandu to Bhaktapur
Take the bus from Bagbazaar (Kathmandu) to Bhaktapur. The bus usually drops people near the Siddha Pokhari (pond) in Bhaktapur. It takes a bit over an hour and costs Rs. 40.
š” For more information, check how to get from Kathmandu to Bhaktapur.
2. PATAN
Best Things to Do in Patan
Best things to do: Visit the Patan Durbar Square, explore secret temples, restaurants in Jhamsikhel
Patan is located south of Kathmandu, approximately 15 minutes taxi ride away from Kathmandu.
Visiting Patan is another popular option for day trips from Kathmandu. The Patan Durbar Square is also a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites and the area is full of temples and stupas.
Check out my travel guide on theĀ best things to do in Patan here!
How to Get from Kathmandu to Patan
Patan is only about 15-20 minutes away from central Kathmandu and it is very easy to get there.
- By Taxi: Taxi costs around Rs. 500 from central Kathmandu to Patan. For the best prices, book it through Nepali taxi apps like Pathao or InDrive.
- By public bus: The public buses leave from Ratna Park (Kathmandu) to Patan. The bus fare costs Rs. 25.
š Thinking of extending your trip to Patan? Book Pahan Chhen: our top recommended hotel in Patan here!
3. NAGARKOT
Best Things to Do in Nagarkot
Best things to do:Ā Himalayan sunrise and sunset views, hiking
Nagarkot is also close to Kathmandu and is most popular for visitors to see the sunrise over the Himalayas.
To be honest, to visit Nagarkot as a day trip, you would have to have your own vehicle or hire a private car. Most people extend their trip to Nagarkot and stay for at least 1 night. If you have more time, it is easy to spend 2-3 nights in Nagarkot.
šļø Check out my guide on the best things to do in Nagarkot here !
How to Get to Nagarkot
- From Kathmandu to Nagarkot:Ā Take a bus from Bhaktapur Bus Park (Bagbazaar, Kathmandu) to Bhaktapur. Then, take another bus from Nagarkot Bus Park (Bhaktapur) to Nagarkot.
- From Bhaktapur to Nagarkot:Ā Take the bus from Nagarkot Bus Park (Bhaktapur) to Nagarkot.
š For more information, check out how to get from Kathmandu to Nagarkot here!
4. CHANGU NARAYAN
Best Things to Do in Changu Narayan
Best things to do: Visit the Changu Narayan Temple
Visiting Changu Narayan is a great day trip from Bhaktapur. It is also possible to visit from Kathmandu but it is probably easiest if you are already staying in Bhaktapur.
Most of the people come here to visit the Changu Narayan Temple, which is one of the oldest temples in Nepal, built in the 4th century. It is also one of the seven World Heritage Sites in the Kathmandu Valley.
Apart from the temple, there is also the Changu Museum and the Ethnographic Museum that can be visited in Changu Narayan.
How to Get from Kathmandu to Changu Narayan
Take the bus from Bagbazaar (Kathmandu) to Bhaktapur (Rs. 40). Once in Bhaktapur, walk to the Dekocha Changu Narayan Bus Stop and take another bus to Changu Narayan.
5. DHULIKHEL
Best Things to Do in Dhulikhel
Best things to do: Sunrise and sunset views of the Himalayas
Dhulikhel is another town near Kathmandu that is great for a day trip or weekend getaway. Similarly to Nagarkot, Dhulikhel is also known for its beautiful views of the Himalayas during sunrise and sunset.
Dhulikhel is less visited as most people go to Nagarkot. So, if you are looking for a less touristy place, Dhulikhel is your best bet.
If you have your own vehicle or hire a private car, you can make Dhulikhel as a day trip but most people book accommodation and stay for at least 1 night.
šļø Check out my guide on the best things to do in Dhulikhel here!
How to Get to Dhulikhel
- From Kathmandu:Ā Take a direct bus from Ratna Park to Dhulikhel.
- From Bhaktapur: Take the bus from Bhaktapur Jagati bus stop to Dhulikhel.
š For more information, check out how to travel from Kathmandu to Dhulikhel here!
5. NAMO BUDDHA
Best Things to Do in Namo Buddha
Best things to do: Visit the Namo Buddha Monastery
Namo Buddha is a little town mostly known for the Namo Buddha Monastery. It is about 40 kms away from Kathmandu and it is located close to Dhulikhel.
The Namo Buddha Monastery is a peaceful place where you can learn about Buddhism and observe life at a Buddhist monastery.
How to Get from Kathmandu to Namo Buddha
- By bus: take the bus from Ratna Park to Banepa. In Banepa, change to another bus going to Namo Buddha.
- By hike:Ā You can also hike to Namo Buddha either from Dhulikhel or Panauti.
6. SUNDARIJAL
Best Things to Do in Sundarijal
Best things to do: Visit the Sundarijal Waterfall, hike to Chisapani/Nagarkot
Sundarijal is located North-East of Kathmandu in the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. It is a nice day trip from Kathmandu to spend some time in the nature.
Sundarijal is also the starting point for hikes going to Chisapani and Nagarkot. So, if you have an extra 2-3 days, it is is nice to go on a hike to Chisapani or Nagarkot.
How to Get from Kathmandu to Sundarijal
By bus: Take the bus from Ratna Park to Sundarijal (after leaving Ratna Park, the bus route also includes stops at Bagbazaar, Chabahil and Boudha ā so if you live in any of these places, you can also just get on the bus there).
7. CHANDRAGIRI HILLS CABLE CAR
Best Things to Do in Chandragiri
Best things to do:Ā Take the Chandragiri Cable Car and see the views of the Himalayas.
Chandragiri is the perfect day trip from Kathmandu and is a popular place to visit on the weekends. The cable car is about a 10-minute ride up to Chandragiri Hills.
It is best to visit Chandragiri when the weather is clear, so that you get the best views of the mountains and Kathmandu Valley.
š” Check out my travel guide to the Chandragiri Hills and Cable Car here!
How to Get from Kathmandu to Chandragiri
- By bus:Ā Take the bus to Kalanki. Then in Kalanki, change to another bus going to Chandragiri.
- By taxi:Ā It is around Rs. 1,000 to get from Kathmandu to Chandragiri by taxi.
š Fancy to treat yourself? Book the Chandragiri Hills Resort for a weekend getaway!
8. KAKANI
Best Things to Do in Kakani
Best for:Ā trout fish, strawberries
Kakani is quite close to Kathmandu and is most known for its trout fish, strawberries and mountain views. It is a good option for a day trip if you like trout fish.
If you have more time, it is worth staying in Kakani for a night, go hiking and explore the Kakani View Point.
š Check out my travel guide to Kakani here!
How to Get from Kathmandu to Kakani
The public buses go from Balaju (Kathmandu) to Kakani. Take the bus from Balaju Bypass (Kathmandu) and it will take about 1.5 hours to reach Kakani.
9. GODAWARI
Best Things to Do in Godawari
Best for: Godawari Botanical Garden or hike up the Phulchowki Hill
Godawari is located south of Kathmandu and is about 1 hour away by car. It is mostly popular for the Godawari Botanical Garden and for hiking up to the Phulchowki Hill.
The best time to visit is in the spring (March-April) when the flowers are in bloom in the botanical garden.
Godawari is a great options for day trips from Kathmandu but if you have more time, you can also spend 1 night here. If you do, you will have time to hike up to the Phulchowki Hill the next day.
šø Check out my Travel Guide to Godawari here!
How to Get from Kathmandu to Godawari
- Option 1: Take the bus from Ratna Park or from the Ring Road to Satdobato.Ā From Satdobato, take another bus/van to Godawari Bus Park.Ā
- Option 2: Take a bus from Lagankhel bus park to Godawari
š For more information, read my guide on how to get from Kathmandu to Godawari.
FAQs: Best Day Trips from Kathmandu
What are the best places to visit near Kathmandu?
Some of the best places to visit near Kathmandu are Bhaktapur, Patan, Chandragiri, Nagarkot, Kirtipur, Dhulikhel, Godawari, Kakani and Sundarijal.
Is Chandragiri worth visiting?
Yes, Chandragiri is totally worth visiting. It is best to visit when the weather is clear, so you will get the best views of the mountains and Kathmandu Valley.
However, even if you go on a cloudy day, there are some other activities you can do once you arrive at the top of the cable car.
What is Godawari famous for?
Godawari is famous for the Godawari Botanical Garden and the hiking trail to Pulchowki Hill. The Godawari Botanical Garden is the oldest and largest botanical garden in Nepal and the best time to visit is during spring.
What is the fee for the Bhaktapur Durbar Square?
The entry fee for foreigners to the Bhaktapur Durbar Square is Rs. 1,800. You can also get a visitor’s pass for the duration of your visa. If you would like to get the visitor’s pass, make sure to take your passport and a passport photo with you.
How far is Kakani from Kathmandu by bus?
Kakani is 28 km away from Kathmandu and takes 1.5 hours to get there by bus. The buses leave frequently from the Balaju Bypass in Kathmandu.
How many days are enough for Nagarkot?
Although, Nagarkot can be visited as a day trip, it is best to spend at least 1 night there. Nagarkot is famous for the sunrise views, so if you stay the night, you can easily catch the sunrise the next day.
Nagarkot also has hiking trails and is a peaceful little town in the hills for those looking for some peace and quiet.
How do I go from Kathmandu to Dhulikhel?
There are direct buses leaving from Ratna Park (Kathmandu) to Dhulikhel frequently. The bus leaves from opposite Bir Hospital at Ratna Park. The journey takes about 2 hours and costs Rs. 90.
In Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many day trip options around Kathmandu. Many of the places can be visited in a day or can be extended for 2-3 days.
Some of the most popular day trips around Kathmandu include, Bhaktapur, Patan, Chandragiri, Godawari, Kakani and Sundarijal.
For weekend (2-3 day trips), Nagarkot and Dhulikhel are the most popular.
Nepal Trip Planning
Book your flight to Nepal: Check out Skyscanner or Kiwi.com to find the best flights deals!
Book Your Accommodation for Nepal: Are you looking for accommodation? Booking.com has everything from budget to luxury accommodation. For the cheapest places, check out Hostelworld.com.
Book Tours and Activities for Nepal: GetYourGuide and Viator have a vast number of tours and day trip activities all around the world. Check out their website and book your activity!
Get Travel Insurance for Nepal: It is always good to be on the safe side when travelling. SafetyWing is one of the most affordable international travel insurance and you can book it even after you have already started your trip.
Get Your Travel Cards: Whenever I am abroad, I always use travel cards Wise and Revolut. They have multiple currencies available, you can use it in shops and restaurants. The great thing is that they have the best exchange rates!
Looking for other tips to make travel easier? Check out my complete list of travel resources that have been my go-to companies when abroad or planning a trip.
Nepal Quick Guide
Can I get a Visa on Arrival for Nepal?
Yes! Almost all nationalities can get a ‘Visa on Arrival’ once landing at the Tribhuvan Airport in Kathmandu (check eligibility here). Getting a Visa-on-Arrival for Nepal is quick and easy. Read here my full guide on getting a Visa on Arrival for Nepal.
Should I get a Nepali SIM card?
Yes! Once you arrive in Nepal, it is recommended to get a Nepali SIM card.
SIM cards in Nepal are cheap and easy to get. There are daily, weekly or monthly data plans – all at an affordable cost. For more information, check how to get a SIM card in Nepal here.
Are there any useful mobile apps I can use in Nepal?
Yes! There are a couple of mobile apps that come handy when travelling in Nepal, including taxi apps, offline maps for trekking, booking accommodation and travel cards.
Check out my list of the most useful mobile apps to have in Nepal.
Can I exchange money in Nepal? What about ATMs?
Yes! Thamel (where most tourists stay) has many money exchange shops as well as ATMs.
There is also a currency exchange shop at the airport but the rates are better in Thamel. Read here all about currency exchange and ATMs in Nepal.
Is it safe to travel by bus in Nepal?
The roads are dangerous but generally yes (best to travel by a tourist bus)!
I would say road travel in Nepal is generally dangerous due to the road conditions. The roads are narrow and go through mountainous areas. The tourist buses in Nepal have the best safety, so if possible, make sure to book tourist buses when travelling in Nepal.
Overall, the roads might look dangerous but the drivers are used to the road conditions in Nepal so the tourist buses are a safe choice. Here is everything you need to know about bus travel in Nepal.
Can I book bus tickets online in Nepal?
Yes! It is possible to book bus tickets online in Nepal however, I recommend it for those staying in Nepal for 3+ months.
It is not possible to book bus tickets online using an international bank card but only through registering on a Nepali digital payment app eSewa. If you are staying long-term in Nepal, read here my step-by-step guide on how to book bus tickets online using eSewa.
Do they speak English in Nepal?
You might wonder “Do they speak English in Nepal?” It depends on where in Nepal you are. In big cities (Kathmandu, Pokhara, Sauraha/Chitwan) or trekking routes (Annapurna, Everest) that have many tourists, you will easily get by speaking English.
If you are in remote Nepal where not many tourists go, people usually will have little or no English. Here is a quick list of useful Nepali phrases to know while travelling in Nepal.
