Begin Your Tour:
Your tour begins from the pickup point and a 30-minute drive to the heart of Kathmandu Valley, Basantapur Durbar Square. You reach there and get immersed in this cultural and historical splendor of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Basantapur Durbar Square Exploration:
Spend the next hour walking around the square and exploring its beautifully carved temples, shrines, and palaces. The highlights are:
Taleju Bhawani Temple: View the stunning architecture of this religious temple, which was built in 1564 by King Mahendra Malla. Even though it is restricted to Hindus only, its huge outer structure is a must-see.
Kumari Ghar: Tour the home of the Living Goddess, Kumari. If luck is on your side, you might get to see the goddess herself, and this will add an element of magic to your trip.
Hanuman Dhoka Palace Museum: Step into the past of Nepal's royalty by entering this palace. The palace museum houses artifacts and relics that say a lot about Nepal's cultural and royal history.
Walk Through the Bustling Streets:
Take a 30-minute easy walk around the busy streets surrounding the square. Explore the lively markets full of souvenirs, handicrafts, and Nepali folk paintings. Go to Freak Street (Jhochhen), which was a hippie hangout in the 1970s, as a must-visit since it still retains the vibrant atmosphere.
Indulge in Traditional Nepali Cuisine:
Break for one hour at a local restaurant to indulge in traditional Nepali or Newari cuisine. Some recommended foods are:
Momo: Nepali dumplings filled with meat or vegetables.
Samay Baji: A traditional Newari platter of beaten rice, lentil patties, and other spicy treats.
Juju Dhau (King Curd): A very creamy and rich yogurt, a local specialty.
Visit Nearby Markets:
If there is time, go to Indra Chowk and Ason Bazaar, lively bazaars that give a glimpse of local life. Walk through spice stores and street stalls that are filled with life, presenting Nepal's daily life and culture.
Relax at a Rooftop Cafe:
End your tour with a stunning view of the square from a rooftop cafe. Drink Nepali tea or coffee while absorbing Basantapur's atmosphere.
Return Journey:
Your return trip will also take 30 minutes. Your guide will drop you back at your hotel safely and comfortably. Take some time to reminisce about the day's vibrant experiences, which will leave you with memories of Basantapur and its culture that will last a lifetime.
