Kathmandu: Chandragiri Hills, Swayambhunath & Cooking Class

Exploring the vibrant cultural tapestry of Kathmandu is an enticing prospect for many travelers. This comprehensive tour promises to unveil the city’s renowned landmarks, spiritual significance, and culinary delights, offering an immersive experience that caters to diverse interests. From the breathtaking vistas of the Chandragiri Hills to the iconic Swayambhunath Temple, this tour guides visitors through a captivating journey, culminating in an authentic Nepalese cooking class. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or a foodie, this itinerary promises to leave an indelible mark on your Nepali adventure. Prepare to be enchanted as you uncover the hidden gems that make Kathmandu a truly remarkable destination.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Cooking Classes In Kathmandu.

Key Points

• This full-day tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Kathmandu’s highlights, including the Chandragiri Hills, Swayambhunath Temple, and a hands-on Nepali cooking class.
• The tour includes a 10-minute cable car ride to Chandragiri Hills, providing breathtaking Himalayan views and a guided tour of the cultural and religious significance of the site.
• Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the Swayambhunath Temple, also known as the Monkey Temple, and learn about its history, spiritual significance, and UNESCO World Heritage status.
• The Nepali cooking class at the Nepal Cooking School allows participants to learn traditional recipes, such as momo dumplings and dal bhat, under the guidance of culinary experts.
• The tour includes hotel pick-up/drop-off, an English-speaking guide, cable car tickets, and entrance fees, with the flexibility to accommodate different schedules and group sizes.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The tour offers a full-day experience exploring the highlights of Kathmandu, including the iconic Chandragiri Hills and the renowned Swayambhunath Temple, also known as the "Monkey Temple".

It’s a 6-hour tour with a price starting from K1,802 per person. The group size is limited to 8 participants, and the tour is conducted in English.

Travelers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reserve their spot without upfront payment.

The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, cable car tickets, and entrance fees to Swayambhunath.

However, personal expenses, meals, drinks, and tips for the guide and porter aren’t included.

Chandragiri Hills Experience

Visitors start their Chandragiri Hills experience with a 10-minute cable car ride, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan panorama.

Once at the top, a guided tour allows them to:

• Admire the stunning mountain landscapes
• Learn about the cultural and religious significance of the area
• Explore the well-maintained trails and paths
• Visit the Chandragiri Palace and its serene gardens
• Snap photos of the magnificent vistas that stretch out before them

This immersive experience provides guests with a deeper understanding and appreciation of Nepal’s natural beauty and rich heritage.

Swayambhunath Temple Exploration

After exploring the captivating Chandragiri Hills, the tour then takes visitors to the iconic Swayambhunath Temple, also known as the Monkey Temple.

Guided by an expert, travelers will enjoy the temple’s rich history and spiritual significance. They’ll admire the towering stupa, ancient sculptures, and vibrant prayer flags.

The guide will share insights into the temple’s role as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and its importance in Tibetan Buddhism.

Visitors can also browse the surrounding shops, offering a chance to discover unique Nepalese handicrafts and souvenirs.

This one-hour experience at Swayambhunath provides a deeper understanding of Nepal’s cultural heritage.

Nepalese Culinary Immersion

Following the exploration of the captivating Chandragiri Hills and the iconic Swayambhunath Temple, the tour culminates with a hands-on culinary experience at the renowned Nepal Cooking School.

Participants embark on a 2.5-hour journey, delving into the art of authentic Nepalese cuisine. The class focuses on traditional recipes, including the renowned momo dumplings and dal bhat, a staple rice and lentil dish.

Equipped with the provided cooking ingredients, guests learn from skilled instructors, gaining valuable insights into the flavors and techniques that define Nepali gastronomy.

This immersive culinary adventure offers a delightful way to savor the rich cultural heritage of Nepal.

• Hands-on cooking class
• Focus on traditional Nepalese recipes
• Instruction from skilled culinary experts
• All necessary ingredients provided
• Opportunity to savor Nepali cuisine

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Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, an English-speaking professional guide, a cable car ticket, and the entrance fee to the Swayambhunath Temple. However, personal expenses, meals, drinks not specified, and tips for the guide and porter are not covered.

Inclusions	Exclusions
Hotel pick-up and drop-off	Personal expenses
English-speaking professional guide	Meals and drinks not specified
Cable car ticket	Tips for guide and porter
Entrance fee at Swayambhunath

Travelers should come prepared with comfortable shoes, a camera, water, and cash for any additional expenses. The tour offers flexibility in terms of starting times and participant selection, subject to availability.

Preparation Tips

To make the most of the Chandragiri Hills and Swayambhunath tour, travelers should pack a few key items.

The tour includes a cable car ride and guided exploration, so comfortable walking shoes are a must. A camera is essential to capture the stunning Himalayan panoramas and vibrant Nepali architecture.

Bringing a water bottle will keep you hydrated during the outdoor activities. Some cash on hand is recommended for any additional purchases or tipping.

Finally, a light jacket or sweater can be helpful, as the weather can be cooler at the higher elevations.

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Camera
• Water bottle
• Cash for purchases/tips
• Light jacket or sweater

Pickup Locations

The tour offers pickup locations in Kathmandu and Thamel, providing convenient access for participants.

Kathmandu, the capital city, serves as the primary pickup point, allowing travelers to easily join the tour from their accommodations.

Thamel, a popular tourist hub, is another designated pickup location, catering to those staying in the vibrant neighborhood.

This flexibility ensures that the tour is accessible to a wide range of visitors, making it simple to start the day’s adventure.

Participants can choose the pickup location that best suits their needs, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free start to the Kathmandu exploration.

Booking Flexibility

One can easily book this tour with flexibility, as it offers a reserve now and pay later option. This allows you to secure your spot without any upfront payment.

Plus, the tour provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving you the freedom to adjust your plans if needed. The tour is available at various starting times, accommodating different schedules.

You can also select the group size, with a limit of 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience. On top of that, the tour is offered in English, catering to international travelers.

The booking flexibility of this tour makes it a convenient and hassle-free choice for your Kathmandu adventure.

• Reserve now, pay later
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Multiple starting times available
• Limited group size of 8 participants
• English-speaking guided tour

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but it’s recommended to wear comfortable, casual clothing and walking shoes. Layers are advised as the weather can be variable, especially at the Chandragiri Hills.

Can I Bring My Own Cooking Utensils?

The tour generally provides all necessary cooking ingredients and utensils for the cooking class. Participants can bring their own cooking tools if desired, but it’s not required as the school will have everything set up for the hands-on lesson.

Are There Any Specific Dietary Requirements for the Cooking Class?

The cooking class accommodates various dietary requirements. The menu can be adjusted for vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diets upon request. Participants should notify the organizers of any special needs when booking the tour.

Can I Take Pictures During the Cable Car Ride?

Yes, you can take pictures during the cable car ride. The tour allows participants to capture the scenic Himalayan panoramas and views from the cable car. Just be mindful of others and avoid disrupting the experience.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour is suitable for children, but it’s best suited for older kids. The cooking class and temple visits may not hold the same appeal for young children, who may get bored more easily.

Recap

This captivating tour offers a well-rounded experience of Kathmandu’s highlights. Visitors can admire the stunning Himalayan vistas from Chandragiri Hills, gain spiritual insights at the iconic Swayambhunath Temple, and enjoy Nepali culinary traditions through a hands-on cooking class. With inclusions, flexibility, and preparation tips, this enriching adventure provides an unforgettable glimpse into Kathmandu’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and gastronomic delights.

You can check if your dates are available here: