Kathmandu Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour

Our Buddhist pilgrimage tour is ideal for everybody including all age groups. This tour can be enjoyed by anyone there is no age limitation.

Trip Facts

duration Duration 8 days
trip-difficulty Trip Difficulty Easy
trip-difficulty Highest Point 2200m
Average Group Size 2-10
trip-code Trip Code KBPT
trip-code Area Kathmandu
trip-code Start Point Kathmandu
trip-start-point Trip End Point Kathmandu
trip-accomodation Accomodation 3 Star Hotels
trip-meals Meals As Mentioned
transportation Transportation On Private Basis

Trip Highlights

  • Monastery explorations inside Kathmandu
  • Stay at the Kopan monastery among the monks
  • Go on a spiritual journey and discover inner peace.
  • Short hike towards tranquil Nagi Monastery and Namkha monastery.
  • Visit the major holy sites Boudhnath Stupa, Namo Buddha and Swayambhunath.
  • Explore sites commemorating the life of the Buddha in Nepal.
  • Visit the peaceful monastery with a panoramic view.

Trip Overview

The Kathmandu Buddhist pilgrimage tour welcomes you with a lifetime experience of Buddhist culture and Buddhist monuments inside the Kathmandu valley. This 8 days faithful journey will take you not only to the beautiful monasteries but also take you on a spiritual journey. Kathmandu Buddhist pilgrimage tour provides the opportunity to learn the teachings of Tibetan Buddhism. Altitude Himalaya has designed this trip with the combination of learning new things and knowing amazing facts about the daily lives of the wholehearted monks you see in every monastery. During this trip, you will get an opportunity to stay at some monasteries. At these Buddhist monasteries, you will experience the pure monk lifestyle if you wish. You should inform us as early as possible to manage the monastery stay upon your selection.

Nepal has been a spiritual hub for centuries and numerous religious sites have profound spiritual and cultural values. Buddhist pilgrimage tours offer a beautiful opportunity to closely observe the peaceful culture and experience spiritual growth. You will visit some of the most renowned Buddhist pilgrimages that are listed in UNESCO world heritage sites. The pilgrimage sites give an amazing vibe through their scented atmosphere and aesthetic butter lamps. Followers of Buddha pay their homage and respect by burning butter lamps and offering aromatic incense which you will see throughout your trip. The serene chanting voice of the monks will bless your ears and heart.

Several famous monasteries are around the Kathmandu valley. Some of the monasteries are located in very peaceful areas such as on top of a hill and far away from the city area. Due to their ideal locations, these places are perfect for some relaxing activities such as meditations and spiritual healing programs. In a few monasteries, they provide courses such as meditation retreats organized by the monastery. People join the courses to learn about the spiritual discipline that helps to make their life better. Buddhist culture from Nepal has influenced Buddhist culture throughout the world as some of the major Buddhist pilgrimage sites are situated in Nepal.

Nepal is rich in cultural diversity along with natural resources. There are different types of cultures and traditions residing in Nepal some of which are Newari Culture, which Kathmandu valley is proud of. Kathmandu Buddhist pilgrimage tours will take you to places that have spiritual values and stunning architectural designs which will not fail to amaze you. Most of the Monastery and religious sites have a different architecture that is inspired by Tibet. This Buddhist pilgrimage tour will be a feast for all your senses. The divine smell from the incense, peaceful chanting of the monks, and gorgeous colorful flags will surely calm your soul. Monasteries and stupas are situated in great locations giving a golden opportunity to observe the surroundings and get close to nature. This pilgrimage tour will take you on a spiritual journey and calm your restless mind. You can enjoy this trip with your family as our other family tour package in Nepal.

Monasteries Exploration in Kathmandu.

There are many monasteries and spiritually important sites present inside Kathmandu valley. These are very important for Buddhists worldwide and mostly for the Tibetan monks as they call it the holiest place. Nepal was the birthplace of Gautam Buddha as a result there are lots of monuments linked with Buddhism. The monasteries and other monuments that you will visit during the Buddhist cultural tour are as follows:

List of the major Buddhist monasteries in Kathmandu valley:

Name of the Monastery

Locations

Kopan Monastery 

Budhanilkantha, Kathmandu 

Namo Buddha 

Kavrepalanchok 

Nagi Gumba

Budhanilkantha, Kathmandu 

Namkha Monastery 

Budhanilkantha, Kathmandu 

Pema Osel Ling Monastery 

Dakshinkali, Kathmandu 

Dzog Chen Monastery 

Godavari, Lalitpur

Swayambhunath Temple 

Swayambhu, Kathmandu

White Gumba

Nagarjun,  Kathmandu

Kirtipur Monastery

Kirtipur, Kathmandu

 

Boudhanath Stupa (Khasti Chaitya)

Boudhanath Stupa is a very fascinating and spiritual sphere. Boudhanath is an important monument for Buddhists as it is devoted to Gautam Budhha. It is also known as the Khasti Chaitya. People moving around the giant white dome, monks chanting in low and placid voices, and the strong smell of divine incense will welcome you to the spiritual site. The dorm is surrounded by 108 small (Manya) prayer wheels, and colorful Lung Ta (Tibetian prayer flags) hanging from the top of the dorm.  One can experience spiritual tranquility here in Boudhanath Stupa. 

Kopan Monastery (Khachoe Ghakyil Ling Monastery)

Kopan Monastery is located in Budhanilkantha and is just 15 mins away from Boudhanath stupa. It is a beautiful Tibetan monastery on the outskirts of Kathmandu, Nepal. The building is surrounded by a beautiful abundance of lawns, flowers, sculpted hedgers, fountains, and many more. The monastery is not only a remarkable example of a beautiful building but also a place where one can experience inner peace. Where you can stay at the property and take part in the activities such as courses.

Swayambhunath Temple

Swayambhunath Temple translates to a self-existent one. It is also known as the monkey temple.  This stupa is the oldest of its kind in Nepal and has several shrines and monasteries on its premises. It was built by king Manadeva, and since the 13th century, it has become an important center of Buddhism. This place is the perfect viewpoint from where you will have a splendid view of the entire Kathmandu valley.

Namo Buddha (Thrangu Tashi Yangtse)

Namo Buddha is one of Nepal's most visited Buddhist monasteries near Dhulikhel. Namo Buddha is a historical place where a special Buddhist legend of King Mahasattva offered his flesh to hungry tigers at the very place making Namo Buddha a holy site. Namo Buddha is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site in Nepal and is one of the three main stupas in Kathmandu valley. You will get a great view of a photogenic building on the side of the hill. 

White Monastery ( Druk Amitabha Monterey)

White Gumba is one of the popular destinations in Nepal for a day hike. It is a Buddhist monastery situated at the top of Druk Amitabh located in Nagarjun municipality. The monastery itself is a beautiful work of Tibetan architecture, with many religious murals, statues, and paintings. Apart from its spiritual significance the monastery also provides an exquisite valley view. Meditation is one of the great things you can do in this peaceful place. 

Kirtipur Monastery

Kirtipur Monastery is also known as the Kagyu institute of Buddhist studies. It is located in the historical town of Kathmandu. The peaceful ambience, panoramic view, and beautiful architecture are perfect places for meditation. This monastery is also the meditation center where people from different places visit for courses and meditation. This place follows certain rules and regulations which the visitors are expected to respect.

Dzog Chen Monastery

Dzog Chen Monastery is one of the most beautiful monasteries that you will see. The monastery is very colorful. The entire building has a celestial design and is covered in prayer flags. Dzog Chen Monastery is near Godawari Botanical garden. The ambience of this place will grant you peace. There are hundreds of monks who live there and learn the teachings of the Buddha. The monks gather every morning for their ritual that anyone can participate in and learn.

Nagi Gumba

Nagi Gumba is situated in the Budhanilkantha on Shivapuri hill. Nagi gumba is a well-known monastery located in the middle of Shivapuri peak from the Pani Muhan. The atmosphere of this place is enchanting with a divine vibe flowing endlessly. Nagi Gumba is a perfect viewpoint from where you can see the entire Kathmandu city with a spectacular view of Langtang mountain view on clear days. Nagi Gumba is not just a monument but also a residence for hundreds of monks learning the teachings of Buddha. You can either hike or drive towards Nagi gumba.

Namkha Khyung Dzong Rigdin Choling Monastery

Namkha Monastery is located in Budhanilkantha. It is beautifully decorated with murals and other paintings on the ceiling. Inside the monastery, there are dazzling golden statues of Lord Buddha. This Monterey not only has a beautiful interior but also has attractive architecture. It is inspired by Tibetan architecture, and the whole building itself is a work of art. Every morning and evening the monks take part in prayer where they learn the teaching of the Buddha and chant mantras. You can hike towards this monastery through the peaceful forest of Shivapuri or drive if you wish. 

Pema Osel Ling Monastery

Pema Osel Ling Monastery  is situated on the outskirts of Kathmandu valley, Pharping is said to be the place where Guru Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) attended enlightenment making this place a sacred site. For Tibetan Buddhists, this hill of Pharping is as important as the Bodhgaya in India. It is believed that a few of the caves in the area were used as meditation places for popular Gurus. Two of these caves are Phamting Vajrayogini temple (Asura cave) and Yanglesho Cave. 

What to expect from Kathmandu Buddhist Pilgrimage tour?

The Kathmandu Buddhist pilgrimage tour provides you with a lifetime experience from the Buddhist religious point of view. There are several places that you will visit during the trip. The sites you will visit during this trip are listed as UNESCO world heritage sites. On your arrival, you will be greeted outside the airport in typical Nepali style and will be escorted to your respective hotel. We will meet for coffee in the evening and brief you on the trip itinerary. According to your planned trip, you will visit Boudhanath stupa and Kopan Monastery where you will explore the sacred sites. In Kopan monastery, you can take part in healing courses organized by the monastery. The ambience of these places will take you on a spiritual journey where you will learn about self-discipline and meditation. To make your tour special you will visit the most influential Buddhist site which is Boudhanath Stupa.

As already mentioned Nepal is the birthplace of Buddha that immensely contributes to Buddhist culture. During the Buddhist tour, you will visit the three prominent Buddhist sites of Boudhanath, Swayambhunath and Namo Buddha. It is said that visiting these three holy places and making offerings creates an immeasurable amount of merit and all virtuous aspirations will be fulfilled. You will be accompanied by a tour guide throughout the tour who will provide you with in-depth knowledge regarding the history and spiritual importance. You will get the great opportunity to observe monks practicing discipline and learning Buddha's teaching inside the monasteries and nunnery.

Then off to Pharping and the Holy caves of Padmasambhava’s life including Vajrakilaya Cave and Asura Cave. In the lush area of Godawari, you will visit the DzogChen Monastery. The bright-colored monastery covered in thousands of prayer flags will fascinate you. Special sites commemorating the life of the Buddha are also in Nepal and you will pay homage to these holy places during your Buddhist Pilgrimage tour.  Kathmandu Buddhist Pilgrimage tour is the perfect itinerary to explore the holy sites devoted to Buddhist culture. You will make your way to another equally important pilgrimage mentioned in the itinerary.

Our Buddhist pilgrimage tour is ideal for everybody including all age groups. This tour can be enjoyed by anyone there is no age limitation. This tour provides an authentic experience to people who are interested in learning about Buddhist culture and tradition.  You will get the opportunity to learn about the history and closely observe the lifestyle of the monks in person during this tour. You can get involved in calm activities encouraged by the monastery and nunnery such as meditation.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 01

Kathmandu Arrival | Welcome to Nepal!

Your Arrival Time (?) Our office representative will meet and greet you in typical Nepali style at Kathmandu airport and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu. In the evening, we will meet at the hotel for a coffee talk and brief you on the details of your upcoming program.

Extra activity that you can participate in Kathmandu during your Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour, let us know your preference in advance so you can schedule the program accordingly and book as needed.

  • Everest Mountain Flight (It is a 1-hour flight (scheduled at 6:3 AM) with a breathtaking view of the mountain range.) (USD 230 PP)

  • Gosaikunda Helicopter Tour from Kathmandu. (USD 300 PP)

  • Everest Helicopter Tour from Kathmandu with Kala Patthar Landing. (USD 1100 PP)

duration 30 Minutes
trip-accomodation Nepali Ghar
trip-meals N/A
Day 02

Holy Grounds of Nepal.

At. 09:00 AM: After early morning breakfast, Visit Boudhanath stupa, where you will be welcomed by the divine smell of incense and the cooing and grunting of the pigeons. After arriving at the Boudhanath Stupa the divine aura will declare peace among people's souls. You can take part in the ritual called Kora along with other visitors.

You will pay a visit to Kopan monastery full of beautiful lawns and stunning gardens. As soon you enter the monastery premises the warm smiles of little monks will welcome you. Inside the monastery, you will see a colorful interior inspired by Tibetan architecture. The peaceful environment will be an ideal place for mediation as well or you can just spend some quality time at the cafe inside the monastery.

duration 6-8 Hours
trip-accomodation Nepali Ghar
trip-meals B
Day 03

Drive to Namkha Monastery | Hike to Nagi Gumba

At. 09:00 AM: Have your breakfast at the hotel and get ready for an adventurous day towards the stunning religious site Nagi Gumba and Namkha monastery located in Budhanilkantha, Shivapuri. From your hotel, it will take approximately 30 mins to reach Tokha from where you will start your short hike. The trail is peaceful and includes lush green hills, various species of flora, and fauna. Drive to Budhanilkantha (Time duration around 30 mins). You will visit the harmonious Namkha Monastery. Spend some peaceful time there with monks learning about their daily schedule. The peaceful area will encourage you to participate in activities like meditation.

At. 01:20 PM: Start your hike towards Nagi Gumba (Monastery). The duration of the hike towards the monastery through the forest is just 1 hour 15 mins. On the way, you will come across gorgeous birds like Flycatcher, warbler, and Spiny babbler. After you reach your destination the magnetic and gratifying view will welcome you. There you will see monks practicing discipline and doing their daily chores. After spending a good amount of time in the peaceful monastery, return  to your respective hotel by drive.

duration 6-8 Hours
trip-accomodation Nepali Ghar
trip-meals B
Day 04

Monastery Exploration in Kirtipur and Godavari.

At. 09:30 AM: Drive to Kritipur Monastery also known as Kagyu institute of Buddhist studies. The monastery is surrounded by beautiful greenery and profound history. where hundreds of monks study Buddhist doctrine and practice mediation. This particular monastery is the mediation center meaning you can participate in the supervision of senior monks.

A drive to Dzog Chen Monastery will take around 45 mins. (Distance 17km) Upon arriving at Monterey, you will be welcomed by a peaceful environment and ambrosial atmosphere. Explore the astounding monastery and appreciate the beauty. This monastery has profound importance to people so take advantage of the opportunity to learn and know about this place personally.

duration 6-8 Hours
trip-accomodation Nepali Ghar
trip-meals B
Day 05

Namo Buddha and Dhulikhel.

At. 08:00 AM: Have your breakfast in the hotel and get ready for another amazing day of your tour. Today you'll be visiting the ancient and famous monastery. The peaceful atmosphere will take you away from the crowded city life. In Namo buddha, you will see numerous butter lamps lit in honor of Buddha. This is the special place where king Mahasattva offered his flesh to a hungry tigress at the very place making it a holy site for Buddhist people. The monastery is surrounded by a serene environment and green hill making it the perfect escape from the noisy urban areas. The monastery is surrounded by Tamang settlement meaning you can learn about the unique culture and try some tasty local foods.

At. 02:30 PM: Drive to Dhulikhel where you will get to see a marvelous sunrise and sunset. This fascinating place has a lot to offer to its visitors. The elevation of this magnificent place is 1550m above sea level, which means you can not only get to see astounding sunsets but mountain views such as Mt. Gurisakher, Mt. Lotse, and  Mt.Phuribichyachu.

At. 06:00 PM: After witnessing the beauty of the magnificent sunset from the Dhulikhel viewpoint you will stay at the hotel in Dhulikhel.

duration 6-8 Hours
trip-accomodation Gaia Holiday Home
trip-meals B
Day 06

Pema Osel Ling Monastery | Pharping Monastery

At. 09:00 AM: Have your morning meal at the hotel and get ready for yet another amazing day of your Buddhist tour. Today you will visit the iconic Monastery and other important places such as the renowned Asura Cave. Inside Asura Cave, there are three main images enshrined within the cave: those of Guru Rinpoche, Yangdak Heruka and Vajrakilaya. (Distance from Dhulikhel to Pharping is 42 Km)

At. 12:00 PM: You will explore the monastery and the nearby surroundings. The monastery itself is located in a calm environment and is surrounded by spectacular valley views. The major attraction of this place is the Asura Cave where you can see the handprints engraved on the stone. This place is considered a holy place and has its importance. You can get along with the locals and get along with them. Spend your precious time and soak in the positivity from this holy place. Once you complete the sightseeing, make your way back to your hotel.

duration 6-8 Hours
trip-accomodation Nepali Ghar
trip-meals B
Day 07

White Gumba & Swayambhunath Exploration!

At. 09:00 AM: Visit White Gumba (Monastery) situated on top of Druk Amitabha Mountain. This beautiful monastery is at 1500m giving a majestic valley view and of course of the nearby mountains. This place has remarkable gardens and awe-spiring building architecture covered in religious murals and paintings. This peaceful location is perfect for relaxation and meditation activities.

Pay a visit to the famous Monkey Temple, Swayambhunath temple. This ancient temple is situated on top of a hill providing a mesmerizing bird-eye view of the entire Kathmandu valley. You can participate in religious activities such as feeding the pigeons and lighting the butter lamps. The cooling breeze will certainly revive your soul. Lastly, we will meet for a cultural (traditional local dance live performance in folk songs) Nepali dinner in Kathmandu on your farewell.

duration 6-8 Hours
trip-accomodation Nepali Ghar
trip-meals B,D
Day 08

Farewell, We love to see you again!

Have a safe home return! You will have leisure time in Kathmandu after breakfast at your hotel. Our office representative will escort you to the Kathmandu airport 3 hours before on time to board your flight. We hope you enjoyed the trip with us!

duration 30 Minutes
trip-meals B

Trip Guide

The given information about the Kathmandu Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour is in-depth, feel free to contact us 24/7 for any kind of assistance. We will be available on WhatsApp to assist you instantly. You can write an email if this trip doesn't fit with your vacation schedule and requirements. We aim to offer the best possible travel experience to the customers. Depending on the needs of the visitors and the group size, we customize each vacation package. We will put together a bespoke itinerary just for your private group.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Are the mentioned sites worth visiting?

    All the mentioned sites have profound historical as well as spiritual importance. The places  you will visit during this tour are considered the Holiest sites for Buddhists. Some of the holy places included in this trip itinerary are Boudhanath stupa, Namo Buddha and Swayambhunath temple. So, Yes, the mentioned sites are worth visiting.

  • What makes this Kathmandu Buddhist pilgrimage tour different from others?

    This is mainly prioritized in Buddhist culture and provides an excellent opportunity to get in-depth knowledge of its practices, teachings and other important factors. This trip will take you to the most profound monasteries and Buddhist sites mentioned in the itinerary. If you wish to stay at the monasteries we can arrange it for you as per the request.

  • What kind of outfit should I wear while visiting the monastery and nunnery?

    According to the monastery dress code for its visitors, they should wear long-sleeved clothes covering their upper body and shoulders. Dresses roughly knee length or fully covered clothes are required. The rules and regulations are set by the monasteries themselves.

  • Can I stay at the Monastery?

    Yes, you can, however, there are not many monasteries with this facility. There are certain rules and regulations that you must follow if you want to stay at the monastery. Also, you have to book before your arrival. If you want to stay at any monastery let us know in advance we will arrange the trip accordingly.

  • Can you take Photographs at Monastery?

    Yes, Photography is allowed at the monasteries but we recommend you ask for permission before taking the pictures of monks and assure you don’t distribute them while praying or meditating. Besides that, you will have to follow the strict rules while at the Monterey premises.

  • What kinds of activities can I take part in Monasteries?

    You can meditate and watch monks' prayers and debate and get inspired by their chantings. You can admire the tranquil environment inside the monastery premises. You can also read books and other religious scriptures.

  • Can we customize the trip itinerary?

    Of course, you can customize the trip itinerary according to your preference in terms of duration, cost, and party size. Altitude Himalaya will be more than happy to customize your trip itinerary, you can contact us on WhatsApp 24/7.

Services Includes

  • Kathmandu airport transfer on arrival and departure.

  • Private vehicle with A/C for all mentioned sightseeing and transfers.

  • All (7 nights) hotel accommodations at the mentioned hotels and resorts at respective places. 

  • Daily breakfast at the hotel from the next day of your arrival.

  • An English speaking professional and government-licensed tour guide during your sightseeing visit to the mentioned sites. .

  • All mentioned sightseeing entrance fees. 

  • One local SIM card (returnable, if required) during your stay.

  • All government and local taxes.

  • A farewell Nepali cultural dinner on your last night in Nepal.

Services Excludes

  • Personal expenses.

  • Lunch and dinner excluded.

  • Nepal visa cost. (You will require 2 passport-size photos and 30 USD)

  • Tips to the driver and guide. (not required but recommended)

  • Services that aren’t mentioned above.

8 Days from US$ 990
USD 950 / Person

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Why Travel With Altitude Himalaya?

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