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Kathmandu Old-Town Walking Tour

The Kathmandu old-town walking tour follows the ancient trade route from Thamel to Kathmandu Durbar Square through the busiest, most atmospheric bazaars in the city. Discover Kathesimbhu stupa, the spice and grain stalls of Asan Tole, the temple of Seto Machhindranath, Indra Chowk and its cloth sellers, and the palaces and temples of Durbar Square, home of the living goddess Kumari.

Guide, Durbar Square entry fee and a Newari snack included.

CountryNepal
Duration1 Days
DifficultyEasy
ActivityCultural walk
Max. AltitudeAbout 1,350 m / 4,430 ft
Best SeasonYear-round
AccommodationNone (half-day tour)
MealsNewari snack
Group size1–15 people

Trip highlights

  • Kathesimbhu stupa
  • Asan Tole bazaar
  • Seto Machhindranath temple
  • Indra Chowk
  • Kathmandu Durbar Square and Kumari Ghar

Kathmandu Old-Town Walking Tour overview

Quick answer: a half-day guided walk from Thamel to Kathmandu Durbar Square through the old bazaars, from US$30 per person.

See our Kathmandu Durbar Square guide and Thamel guide.

At a glance

FactDetails
DurationAbout 3–4 hours
RouteThamel – Asan – Indra Chowk – Durbar Square
GradeEasy
CostFrom US$30 per person

Day-by-day itinerary

Day1
Meet in Thamel and walk south through Kathesimbhu, Asan, Seto Machhindranath and Indra Chowk to Kathmandu Durbar Square, with a Newari snack on the way.
3–4 hours 1,350 m Newari snack Cultural walk

What’s included

Included

  • Licensed guide
  • Kathmandu Durbar Square entry fee
  • Newari snack
  • All government and local taxes

Not included

  • Transport (not needed from Thamel)
  • Drinks
  • Tips

Useful info

Traffic

Lanes are narrow and busy with motorbikes; stay close to your guide.

Etiquette

Ask before photographing people and remove shoes where asked.

Packing list

  • Comfortable shoes
  • Small daypack
  • Camera

Add-ons & trip options

Rickshaw ride back to Thamel (per person)US$5

Choose add-ons and quantities on the booking form.

More options, quoted on request:

  • Evening walk to see the bazaars lit up.
  • Rickshaw ride back to Thamel.

Frequently asked questions

In Thamel.

About 3–4 hours.

From US$30 per person.

She sometimes appears at her window; it's never guaranteed.