Discover the picturesque settlements of the Kathmandu Valley with this delightful day trip taking in the villages of Khokana and Bungamati as well as the monumental city of Patan, the temple-rich centre of which is a Unesco World Heritage Site. Lunch in a traditional Newari restaurant is included.
Both Khokana and Bungamati are Newari villages, the ethnic group that accounts for just one in 20 Nepalese but dominates the Kathmandu Valley. In Khokana, traditional crafts are still very much in vogue and villagers can be seen spinning, winnowing and crushing mustard seeds. The town is renowned throughout Nepal for its mustard oil. Stroll through the main street and admire the three-storey Shree Rudrayani temple.
After exploring Khokana, head to Bungamati, which is a 20-minute walk away. Pass by agricultural labourers using ancient farming techniques before arriving at the village itself. In the stunningly beautiful main square look in awe at the Ganesh Temple and the Machhindranath Temple.
The villages are both on the periphery of Patan, where we stop for lunch before exploring its world heritage centre. Main attractions at the Patan Durbar Square include the Krishna Temple with its 21 golden pinnacles, Rudra Varna Mahavihar – a Buddhist monastery that houses many local treasures – and the Mul Chowk central courtyard.
Meeting/pick-up point: Collection from hotel.
Start/opening time: At 9am.
End/closing time: At 3.30pm.
Languages: English-speaking guide.