Kathmandu Durbar Square - Private/Small Group

Highlights

Inclusions

Itinerary

1. Wasya Dyaa, or the Toothache Tree, is a wooden idol located near Thahiti Tole in Kathmandu, believed to cure toothaches. Traditionally, it is thought that hammering a coin into the tree’s wood can alleviate dental pain. This practice stems from ancient beliefs and continues today, despite modern dental care. The tree is associated with the legendary Bangemudha, and many visitors still come to pray before seeing a dentist. Around the temple, a dental hub has developed, with more than 20 clinics, some dating back to the Rana period. This spot blends Nepalese mythology and modern healthcare, and visiting Wasya Dyaa is a unique experience for anyone interested in local culture and tradition, especially those with toothaches.

   45 min

2. Southwest of Asan Tole, at the junction of Kel Tole, Seto Machhindranath Temple attracts both Buddhists and Hindus. Buddhists view him as Avalokiteshvara, while Hindus worship him as a rain-bringer incarnation of Shiva. In the courtyard, you'll find small shrines, chaityas (small stupas), and statues, including a European-looking female figure surrounded by candles. Just outside the temple, two graceful bronze statues of Tara are seated atop pillars. Inside, the white-faced image of Seto Machhindranath is covered in flowers. Though the temple's exact age is unknown, it was restored in the 17th century. As you exit, you'll see the small Tantric Lunchun Lunbun Ajima temple, known for its erotic carvings. Nearby, shops offer traditional Nepali clothing, including topi (hats) and daura suruwal (traditional dress), with miniature versions for children.

   45 min

3. The Kumari, also known as the Living Goddess, is a sacred symbol of power and purity in Kathmandu. The Kumari resides in the Kumari Ghar (Kumari Temple) at Kathmandu Durbar Square, and her presence is considered an essential part of the spiritual and cultural fabric of the city.

   45 min

4. Hanuman Dhoka Palace, located in the heart of Kathmandu Durbar Square, is a historical palace complex that was the royal seat of the Malla kings and later the Shah dynasty. Its name comes from the nearby statue of the monkey god Hanuman, which is believed to protect the royal family. The palace complex, which dates back to the 16th century, consists of several buildings, courtyards, temples, and shrines. The most notable structure is the main palace building, which was used by the kings and their court for centuries. The architecture of Hanuman Dhoka Palace is a stunning example of traditional Nepalese Malla-period architecture, with intricately carved wooden windows, massive stone pillars, and elaborate courtyards.

   45 min

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, for a full refund.

Reviews

Ratings come from 19 reviews collected by our booking partner. They are travellers' own words, in the order they were written — never reordered to flatter the experience.

Know before you go

How it compares in Kathmandu

• Its from-price is 97% below the median of the 2812 experiences we list in Kathmandu.
• It is shorter than most of them.
• By number of reviews it ranks 353 of 2812.
• The operator lists free cancellation on it.

About Kathmandu

Kathmandu is Nepal's ancient, colourful capital, a valley city of temples, stupas and royal squares and the gateway to the Himalaya.

Kathmandu Durbar Square, the old royal square, is crowded with pagoda-roofed temples and palaces, and nearby lives the Kumari, the city's living child goddess. Thamel, the travellers' quarter, is a tangle of lanes selling trekking gear, prayer flags and handicrafts, busy with cafés and rooftop restaurants.

Top-ranked sights in Kathmandu: Namche Bazaar, Pashupatinath, Kathmandu Durbar Square (Basantapur).

See all 2812 experiences in Kathmandu