Hello!
My name is Anil, and I’ve been guiding travelers from Spain and many other countries through the Himalayan region and the Indian Ocean for many years.

Are you thinking about traveling to South Asia — that is, to India, Nepal, Tibet, or Bhutan?
Excellent decision! In fact, it could be one of the best experiences of your life. Why?

Because South Asia offers you something truly unique and transformative.

Just imagine: the deep spirituality of the Buddhist traditions of Nepal or Tibet; walks among green mountains, or even a more challenging trek through the Himalayas; medieval cities full of history; the harmonious coexistence of people with very different features, languages, and religions… and so much more!

Take Kathmandu, for example.
When you land, your first impression might be the chaotic traffic or the pollution — and yes, that’s true — but soon you’ll discover the magic of the Kathmandu Valley. It has always been a mystical and legendary place.

That said, make sure you have a good local guide — someone who truly knows the city: its history, its culture, and also its modern side. Kathmandu is a city (or rather, a large town) where different cultures and religions live side by side: on the same street you can see a Buddhist temple and, right across from it, a Hindu one. There are Tibetan neighborhoods, old Newar districts from the region… and if you get hungry, there are excellent restaurants — both affordable international ones and places serving delicious local food.

And now, let me tell you about a 3-day program in Kathmandu that brings all of this together — history, spirituality, great food, and everyday life in the valley.

3-Day Itinerary: Kathmandu Valley (with Patan, Bhaktapur & Nagarkot)

Day 1 – Kathmandu City Walks & Heritage Highlights

Morning:

• Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): Begin your trip with panoramic views over the valley and the sacred Buddhist–Hindu mix of Kathmandu’s most famous stupa.

• Kathmandu Durbar Square: Explore the royal courtyards, Hanuman Dhoka Palace, and the living goddess Kumari’s residence.

• Indra Chowk & Ason Bazaar Street Walk: Wander the vibrant market streets, full of spices, brassware, and local daily life — an authentic Kathmandu experience.

Lunch:

• Thamel House Restaurant (traditional Newari set meal in a restored Rana-era building) or

• OR2K (bohemian vibe, great vegetarian options).

Afternoon:

• Garden of Dreams: A serene colonial garden in central Kathmandu — perfect for a rest after sightseeing.

• Shopping options:

  • Thamel: for pashmina, handicrafts, trekking gear, singing bowls.

  • Kantipath or Lazimpat boutiques: more refined Nepali designers and silver jewelry.

Evening:

• Dinner:

  • Bhumi Restaurant (authentic Newari flavors, Lazimpat), or

  • Trisara, Lazimpat (live music and great ambiance).

• Optional hidden gem: Rooftop bar at Kaiser Café overlooking Garden of Dreams for a peaceful evening drink.

Day 2 – Patan’s Heritage & Hidden Alleys

Morning:

• Drive to Patan Durbar Square, a UNESCO site filled with exquisite Malla-era architecture.

• Visit Patan Museum (one of Asia’s best small museums) and Hiranya Varna Mahavihar (Golden Temple).

• Take a guided Patan street walk through local courtyards (bahas) and hidden shrines — this is where old Kathmandu culture truly lives on.

  • Stop by Pimbahal Pond and the charming Café Swotha nearby for coffee or brunch.

Lunch:

• Yala Café or The Village Café (great momos, Newari fusion, local women’s cooperative).

Afternoon:

• Visit Kupondole Road for boutique shopping — Nepali designer brands like SABAH Nepal, Kallisto Design, or Vata Store (sustainable fashion).

• Explore Jawalakhel Handicraft Center (genuine Tibetan carpets, run by refugees).

• Optional: Visit Bungamati & Khokana, two traditional Newar villages nearby (20–30 min drive) — quiet, authentic, and not yet over-touristed.

Evening:

• Return to Patan. Dinner at Dhokaima Café (heritage ambiance and excellent Nepali/Continental fusion).

• Optional: Attend a local cultural music event if available (check Patan House or Yalamaya Kendra schedules).

Day 3 – Bhaktapur & Nagarkot Hike

Morning:

• Early drive to Bhaktapur Durbar Square (around 45 min from Patan/Kathmandu).

  • Visit the 55 Window Palace, Nyatapola Temple, and Pottery Square.

  • Sample juju dhau (famous Bhaktapur yogurt).

• Explore small lanes full of traditional woodcarving workshops — great for souvenirs.

Lunch:

• Café Nyatapola (rooftop view over the main square).

Afternoon:

• Drive to Nagarkot (45–60 minutes). Check into a hillside lodge or viewpoint hotel.

• Take a short hike (1.5–2 hrs) from Nagarkot to View Tower or the Nature Trail to Nala village.

• Watch the sunset over the Himalayas — on clear days, you can spot Everest’s tip.

Evening:

• Dinner with a view at Hotel Country Villa or Club Himalaya Resort.

• Overnight in Nagarkot (or return to Kathmandu if short on time).

💡 Additional Tips & Hidden Gems

• Hidden Temple Walk (Kathmandu): Around Thamel, explore small temples like Seto Machindranath and Jana Bahal.

• Morning Coffee Spots:

  • Himalayan Java (Thamel or Patan) for the best local coffee.

  • Kar.ma Coffee (Patan) for eco-conscious vibes.

• Souvenir Ideas: Lokta paper journals, brass lamps, handwoven scarves, or Thangka art from Bhaktapur.

• Best Time for Walks: Early morning (7–9 AM) before the traffic picks up — locals are active, and light is magical.