Free Walk Around Kathmandu: Self-guided Tours in Kathmandu

Free Walk Around Kathmandu: Self-guided Tours in Kathmandu

Nepal is a land lock country located in the central part of South Asia and also itself located on the lap of a beautiful Himalaya region with an estimated population of 26.4 million. It’s 48th largest country by population and 98th largest by area. This heaven shows the diverse geography because of the fertile plain and subalpine forested hills. Parts of northern Nepal were intertwined with the culture of Tibet. The centrally located Kathmandu Valley is intertwined with the culture of Indo-Aryan. Here we have so many sites to see, foods to eat, activities to try. But everyone couldn’t get a chance to grab these all at once. But experience an only fraction of them would become possible. And another noticeable string in this country is its people who are always ready to help everyone in need if anyone feels Nepalese people closely then literally they experienced as a test like a hot bowl of soup in rainy day. In Nepal, you could meet an amazing wildlife present region such as one-horned rhino and elephant too. Another ornament of this mount country is birthplace of Gautam Buddha and so many Buddhists temples.

The capital city of Nepal is Kathmandu is also renowned as a district of Kathmandu where music and light are always pumping and shining on their own pace. Which make throughput of your travel day vibrant and more hectic. So which enables everyone feeling towards free walks would become more fantastic and remarking. That’s why many tourists who come to visit in Nepal at first he/she prepared for learning about free walks and its advantages in their travel diary. In thermal you could find a jumble of trekking shop with fake brand and souvenir shop in every corner of the city. If your walk-in Thamel in night time then he/she knowingly and unknowingly strike with so many incredible numbers of small hotel bar pub with a sports lounge, travelling and trekking shop .so this is the reason behind being trammel as one of the glowing tourists paradise of Nepal. However, while walking you could see so many crowed of people is interfaced with motorbikes this makes your mood a bit funny. Within a certain walking distance, you reach the durbar square royal palace and dense newer people and their activities. Talking to Newari people and feel their life at lives is part of enthusiasms digging on their travel destination is even a passion for so many tourists.

At first, while entering into this zone, you don’t forget to keep the entrance slip with you. After paying entrance fee then you entered into this area with so many welcomed hands and souls. While visiting there you experienced as a best world heritage site in Kathmandu. If you book in every hotel there then you are facilitated by hotel privet guide who serves you for your every difficulty in your daily life schedule. at evening time if stay at top of any café restaurants or hotels you could see so mesmerizing view with the glowing shine of sow at Ganesh Himal. So many information about your travel dairy which may goto happen and situation you are going to bear is kindly provided by the hotel owner or the member of your authentic agency. So the tour starts from the garden of dream and ends at monkey temple. While walking in Thamel you’re every step are toned and scattered with ritual culture religion and remarkable dishes which is very popular in worlds on regards of Nepal is Mo: Mo.

1. Durbar Square and Surroundings Walk

One of the most ideal starting points for your self-guided tour is Kathmandu Durbar Square, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient site used to be the royal palace of the Malla kings and then the Shah dynasty. The square boasts magnificent temples, courtyards, and statues that speak of Nepal’s glorious history.

Highlights of the walk:

• Kumari Ghar (The Living Goddess) – Ever gazed upon a living goddess? The Kumari, a young girl who is said to be the reincarnation of a Hindu goddess, resides in this palace. If you are fortunate, you might catch a glimpse of her looking out of the palace window.
• Taleju Temple – One of the tallest temples in the square, built in the 16th century, in reverence to the goddess Taleju Bhawani.
• Hanuman Dhoka Palace – The former royal family’s palace now contains a museum of Nepalese artefacts.
• Kasthamandap – The temple, said to have been built from a single tree, is said to have given Kathmandu its name.

Walking Tip:

Start early morning to avoid the crowds and observe local morning ceremonies. Do you enjoy taking photos? The soft morning light is perfect for taking in the ancient beauty of Kathmandu.

2. Thamel to Ason Market Walk

Leave Durbar Square and head in the direction of Thamel, the center of Kathmandu’s tourist action. This vibrant area is teeming with cafes, stores, and street vendors. Although it’s a hit with tourists, walking into nearby local markets gives one a view of real Kathmandu life.

Key Stops:

• Indra Chowk – A vibrant square where locals buy beads, bangles, and local products. Ever seen Nepalese wedding garlands? They are created and sold here!
• Ason Market – One of the busiest markets in Kathmandu, renowned for selling spices, lentils, and local products. The aroma of fresh spices fills the air—can you find them all?
• Seto Machindranath Temple – A centuries-old temple dedicated to the White Machindranath, a deity believed to induce rains and prosperity.

Walking Tip:

Munch a snack from a street vendor’s stall—samosas, momos, or sel roti. Which one do you enjoy the most?

3. Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) Walk

To see Kathmandu in its widest panorama, hike up to Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple due to the naughty monkeys residing here. The stupa rests on a hill. It is considered to be among the most sacred Buddhist sites in Nepal.

Why visit Swayambhunath?

1. 360-Degree View of Kathmandu – Can you see Durbar Square and Thamel from there?
2. Prayer Wheels and Butter Lamps – Turn the prayer wheels in a clockwise motion while chanting mantras of good luck.
3. Buddha’s Eyes – The iconic golden spire is adorned with Buddha’s eyes, symbolizing wisdom and kindness.
4. Monastery and Prayer Flags – Feel the peaceful ambiance while monks chant their prayers.

Walking Tip:

The stupa stairs might be steep—are you ready for a mini-workout? Bring some water and rest if needed.

4. Patan Durbar Square Walk

Have a short taxi ride or walk confidently south of Kathmandu and arrive at Patan Durbar Square, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Unlike Kathmandu Durbar Square, here in Patan we can see its Newar style architecture, intricately carved walls and windows, and Buddhist culture.

Places to Visit:

• Krishna Mandir – A stunning stone temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna, and constructed in the Shikhara style.
• Patan Museum – Interested in seeing ancient history and artifacts? This museum contains Nepalese art and architecture.
• Hiranya Varna Mahavihar (Golden Temple) – Tucked away, this Buddhist monastery glimmers with golden decorations.

Walking Tip:

Patan’s narrow little streets are filled with hidden courtyards and local artisans. Seeking authentic handicrafts to buy? This is where you’ll find great metalwork and Thangka paintings.

5. Pashupatinath and Boudhanath Walk

End your self-tour with a spiritual experience by visiting Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa. These two legendary sites symbolize Nepal’s profound Hindu and Buddhist heritage.

Highlights:

• Pashupatinath Temple – The holiest of Nepal’s Hindu temples, and it’s Lord Shiva that it is devoted to. Did you ever get to witness an open-air cremation? It’s a soul-stirring and spiritual one that takes place along the Bagmati River.
• Boudhanath Stupa – A world’s largest stupa, surrounded by Tibetan monasteries and prayer wheels.

Walking Tip:

Visit Boudhanath in the evening when the butter lamps are lit—doesn’t the glow make the atmosphere so peaceful?

Final Thoughts: Are You Ready to Explore?

Kathmandu is a city of tradition, culture, and daily rituals. Walk its streets and bazaars to experience its rhythm. Whatever you do, from gazing at the ancient temples of Durbar Square, to tasting street food in Ason, or walking around prayer wheels in Swayambhunath, there is something to treasure in every corner and nook.

So, are you prepared to go on a self-guided walking tour of Kathmandu? Which path is most thrilling to you? Take a map, put on your walking shoes, and off you go! Safe travels!