3 nights, 4 days
Kathmandu 4-Day Itinerary (3 Nights)
A 4-day route through Kathmandu grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.
Distances are straight-line, so actual transit times will differ. Feel free to reorder the stops. · Updated August 15, 2026
The whole route at a glance
Map and place data © OpenStreetMap contributors Lines are straight connections, not actual routes.
DAY 1
Around Pashupatinath Temple · Temples & religious sites·Castles & palaces
Directions in Google Maps-
MorningPashupatinath Temple
Temples & religious sites
A Hindu temple on the banks of the Bagmati River east of Kathmandu, renowned as a sacred site dedicated to Shiva. It draws a steady stream of worshippers year-round, and during the Shivaratri festival, pilgrims from around the world fill it to capacity.
-
After lunchGuhyeshwari Temple
Temples & religious sites · 0.5 km from the previous stop
This Hindu temple sits on the southern bank of the Bagmati River, near Pashupatinath. Regarded as one of the Shakti Peethas, it is a pilgrimage site especially popular among Tantric devotees.
-
AfternoonSingha Durbar
Castles & palaces · 3.1 km from the previous stop
This palace stands in the heart of Kathmandu, Nepal's capital, built by the Rana family in the early 20th century and long used as a government building. It is well known as a historic structure of grand architectural beauty.
-
EveningNarayanhiti Palace
Museums & galleries · 2 km from the previous stop
The former residence of the Nepali royal family in Kathmandu, once host to major state events. Its lavish audience hall and gardens let visitors experience the history of Nepal's monarchy.
DAY 2
Around Swayambhunath · Temples & religious sites·Parks & gardens
Directions in Google Maps-
MorningSwayambhunath
Temples & religious sites
A Buddhist temple set on a hill west of Kathmandu, nicknamed the "Monkey Temple" for the many monkeys living around it. It is one of the major sites of the Kathmandu Valley, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.
-
After lunchKasthamandap
Temples & religious sites · 2 km from the previous stop
This wooden structure on Kathmandu Durbar Square has a history that traces back in part to the 7th century. It collapsed in the 2015 earthquake and was later restored to its present form.
-
AfternoonBasantapur Durbar Square
Parks & gardens · 0.1 km from the previous stop
A traditional square in central Kathmandu, it's one of Nepal's iconic Durbar Squares. Former royal palaces and temples cluster here, offering a glimpse into local history and architecture.
-
EveningThamel
Shopping & districts · 1.3 km from the previous stop
Thamel is a lively district in downtown Kathmandu known for its budget accommodations, making it a favorite among backpackers. The whole area is a Wi-Fi zone, so you can get around without worrying about internet access.
DAY 3
Around Kathmandu Valley · Nature·Castles & palaces
Directions in Google Maps-
MorningKathmandu Valley
Nature
Located in central Nepal, the Kathmandu Valley encompasses ancient cities such as Kathmandu, Lalitpur, and Bhaktapur, along with numerous Hindu and Buddhist sites. It's home to temples and squares designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
-
After lunchHanuman Dhoka
Castles & palaces · 0.1 km from the previous stop
A former royal palace on Kathmandu Durbar Square, used through both the Malla and Shah dynasties. Its name comes from the Hanuman statue at the entrance, and visitors can explore historic royal architecture here.
-
AfternoonIndra Chowk
Parks & gardens · 0.3 km from the previous stop
This square in Kathmandu, Nepal, is a great spot to stop by while getting around the city. It offers an up-close look at the simple charm of everyday local street life.
-
EveningAsan
Parks & gardens · 0.3 km from the previous stop
A square in the heart of Kathmandu, great for a stroll while taking in the bustling street life and passersby.
DAY 4
Around Changu Narayan Temple · Temples & religious sites·Parks & gardens
Directions in Google Maps-
MorningChangu Narayan Temple
Temples & religious sites
A Hindu temple atop a hill near Kathmandu, built in the 4th century and considered one of Nepal's oldest temples. Dedicated to the god Vishnu, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.
-
After lunchBhaktapur Durbar Square
Parks & gardens · 4.9 km from the previous stop
This square is located in Bhaktapur, Nepal. It's a pleasant place to stroll and take in the city's atmosphere.
-
AfternoonNyatapola Temple
Temples & religious sites · 0.1 km from the previous stop
A five-story pagoda temple in the heart of Bhaktapur, the tallest traditional structure in Nepal. Built between 1701 and 1702, it has withstood several major earthquakes.
-
EveningBagmati River
Nature · 11.1 km from the previous stop
A sacred river that rises in the hills north of the Kathmandu Valley and flows through the city center. The Hindu shrine of Pashupatinath sits on its banks, where visitors can observe cremation rituals.
Where to stay for this itinerary
Around Pashupatinath Temple, the anchor of day one. Staying here keeps your first day's travel shortest.
-
Hotel Maharaja
0.5 km
-
Palagya Hotel
0.5 km
-
The Amadablam Hotel
0.6 km
-
OYO C O International hotel
0.6 km
-
Hotel Shivam Plaza
0.7 km
-
Bhimnidhi Tiwari Marg
0.7 km
Booking.com
Hotels.com
Check prices and availability on the booking sites.
More stays in Kathmandu →Check flights to Kathmandu first
Pick a departure airport and date to jump straight to results for Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM).
Check fares and seat availability on the flight search site.
Tours & tickets for this itinerary
Popular sights often sell out on the day. Once your plan is set, secure tickets and tours in advance.
GetYourGuide
Klook
Tiqets
KKday
WeGoTrip