Kathmandu: Bhaktapur Tour, Thangka Painting & Wood Carving Kathmandu: Bhaktapur Durbar Square & Artisans Tour
ID: GYG1093424-1679575
Category:
Country: Nepal
Duration:
07:00 hours
Description
Experience Bhaktapur’s vibrant arts and culture on a full-day tour from Kathmandu. Explore Durbar Square, try your hand at Thangka painting, and craft a miniature wood carving to take home.
Begin your day with a convenient hotel pickup and enjoy a scenic 45-minute drive through the Kathmandu Valley, passing terraced fields, small villages, and bustling markets.
Arrive at Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore its centuries-old temples and courtyards. Highlights include Nyatapola Temple, the tallest five-story pagoda in Nepal; Vatsala Temple, known for its intricate stonework; and Bhairavnath Temple, notable for its detailed carvings and local rituals.
Stroll through narrow alleyways lined with artisan shops, bakeries, and hidden shrines, immersing yourself in the sights, sounds, and aromas of traditional Newari life.
Visit a Thangka painting school, where a master artist demonstrates delicate brushwork and gold-leaf techniques. You’ll have the chance to create your own miniature Thangka while learning about the symbolism and stories behind each design.
Next, explore a woodcarving workshop and learn traditional carving techniques from skilled craftsmen. Carve your own small wooden piece while observing centuries-old methods passed down through generations.
Throughout the day, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Bhaktapur’s courtyards and markets, watching artisans at work and discovering local crafts.
At the end of the tour, take home your handcrafted Thangka and woodcarving as a unique memento of your cultural experience in Bhaktapur.
Highlights
- Immerse yourself in the living arts and timeless culture of Bhaktapur
- Wander the ancient streets and courtyards of Bhaktapur Durbar Square
- Marvel at intricate temples, medieval architecture, and marketplaces
- Try your hand at Thangka painting and learn delicate techniques
- Craft your own miniature woodcarving guided by local craftsmen
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
This is a private tour - only your group will participate.
This is a hands-on tour where you will create your own souvenirs and take them home with you.
The tour involves walking through narrow alleys and courtyards.
Carry a valid passport.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as Bhaktapur’s streets are cobbled and uneven. Bring sunglasses or a hat for sun protection.
INCLUDED
- Pick-up and drop-off
- Guided tour of Bhaktapur Durbar Square
- Thangka painting session
- Woodcarving session
- Entry fee
NOT INCLUDED
- Meals
- Personal expenses
- Tips for guide (optional)
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.