Day 2 in Kathmandu: Your Self-Guided Adventure Through the Boudhanath Stupa Area, Patan, and Patan Durbar Square - Nepal Purple Travel Guide

Today we will start our day with another famous stupa: Boudhanath. Afterwards, we explore Patan (also known as Lalitpur), and Patan Durbar Square. We end our day with an entertaining dinner at Bhojan Griha. It is suggested to make a dinner reservation at Bhojan Griha, as they sometimes sell out. You can ask your hotel to call them and make the reservation for you.

Here at Backpack and Snorkel Travel Guides, we typically promote self-guided walking tours.
But we realize that not everybody likes to walk by themselves in a foreign city. So, just in case that you rather go with ab guide: NO PROBLEM! Please see the Viator tours below.

Exploring the Boudhanath Stupa area

(map, reviews)

Towering above the rooftops of northeastern Kathmandu, the magnificent Boudhanath Stupa (also spelled Boudha Stupa) is one of the largest spherical stupas in the world, and one of the most sacred Tibetan Buddhist sites outside Tibet. With its massive white dome, iconic all-seeing eyes of the Buddha, and a constant whirl of prayer flags and pilgrims, Boudhanath offers a serene yet vibrant atmosphere that draws both spiritual seekers and curious travelers.
Boudhanath Stupa lies a bit over 4 miles (7 km) northeast of central Kathmandu - take a taxi or Pathao from your hotel to get there.
At the time of writing, admission was Rs400 per non-Nepali visitor, payable in cash. Interestingly, when you enter from the south, you have to pay admission at the booth. The entrances in the North are not always guarded, so there is a chance that you can enter the area for free if you go there.

Detailed information can be found at our Exploring the Boudhanath Stupa area Page

Self-guided walking tour of Patan

(map, reviews)

Just across the Bagmati River from central Kathmandu lies Patan, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Nepal. Officially known as Lalitpur, meaning ‘City of Beauty’, Patan is a treasure trove of ancient temples, intricately carved palaces, and vibrant courtyards that showcase the rich artistry of the Newar civilization.

The name Patan is derived from the Sanskrit word Pattan, meaning ‘city’. Its official name, Lalitpur, combines lalit (meaning ‘beautiful’) and pur (meaning ‘city’). Historically, Patan was an independent kingdom until the unification of Nepal in the 18th century. It has long been known as a center of fine arts, metalwork, and religious scholarship.

Detailed information can be found at our Self-guided walking tour of Patan Page

Self-guided walking tour of Patan Durbar Square

(map, reviews)

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Patan Durbar Square is the smallest of the three Durbar Squares, and it is often considered to be the most beautiful one. It is famous for its harmonious blend of Hindu and Buddhist monuments, intricately carved temples, and historical courtyards (bahals).

If you have followed our Patan walking tour, then you will enter Patan Durbar Square from the north.
Please be advised, that foreigners must pay an admission of Rs1000 per person at the payment booths – Nepali citizens can enter for free. There are no barriers that restrict you from entering, but if you don’t pay, then it will only be a matter of time that a guard will find you, and ask you to go to the payment booth and pay.

Detailed information can be found at our Self-guided walking tour of Patan Durbar Square Page

Bhojan Griha

(map, reviews, website, menu)

Bhojan Griha is a higher-end restaurant that offers a delightful experience for those interested in exploring Nepali culture through its food and architecture. This unique restaurant, combines traditional Nepali cuisine with cultural performances, making it a must-visit attraction for travelers seeking an authentic taste of Nepal.

Bhojan Griha is housed in a beautifully restored, 150-year-old heritage building that was once in ruins. The current owners lovingly brought it back to life, preserving its historic charm and character.

Detailed information can be found at our Bhojan Griha Page

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Author: Rudy at Backpack and Snorkel

Bio: Owner of Backpack and Snorkel Travel Guides. We create in-depth guides to help you plan unforgettable vacations around the world.

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