Free walking tour from Kathmandu

🛕 Thahity Stupa

Thahity Stupa is a peaceful Buddhist monument located near Thamel, Kathmandu. It’s surrounded by traditional Newari houses, local shops, and prayer flags. The stupa is believed to have been built during the Licchavi period and serves as a spiritual stop for both locals and travelers. You can see devotees lighting butter lamps and spinning prayer wheels as they pass by.

🛕 Kathesimbu Stupa (Small Swayambhu)

Kathesimbu Stupa, often called the Small Swayambhu, is a beautiful replica of the great Swayambhunath Stupa. Hidden inside a small courtyard between Thamel and Asan, it’s a quiet place filled with prayer wheels, small shrines, and sculptures. The stupa was built using materials brought from Swayambhu, making it a sacred site for both Buddhists and Hindus.

🛕 Teeth Temple (Vatsala Durga Temple / Bhurungkhel Tooth Temple)

Known locally as the Teeth Temple, this small but fascinating shrine is believed to be dedicated to a deity that cures toothaches and dental problems. Locals visit to offer prayers and symbolic offerings of teeth made of silver or clay. It’s a unique example of the blend of faith and local tradition in Kathmandu.

🏘️ Asan Bazaar

Asan is one of the oldest and busiest market squares in Kathmandu. It’s a cultural and commercial hub where narrow alleys meet, filled with spices, vegetables, brassware, and traditional items. The square is surrounded by ancient temples and shrines, representing both Buddhist and Hindu deities. It’s the heart of traditional Newar life in the city.

🛕 Machhendra Nath Temple (Seto Machhendranath)

This temple, dedicated to Seto Machhendranath (the White Machhendranath), is a sacred place for both Hindus and Buddhists. The temple’s deity represents compassion, and every year the Seto Machhendranath chariot festival takes place through the streets of Kathmandu. The temple’s detailed wood carvings and peaceful atmosphere make it a highlight of the old city.

🏯 Ittum Bahal

Ittum Bahal is one of the oldest Buddhist monastic courtyards in Kathmandu. It’s home to stunning architecture, prayer flags, and stone sculptures. Monks and locals gather here for prayers and rituals. The bahal represents Newar Buddhist community life and offers a calm retreat from the busy streets nearby.

🏯 Yatkha Bahal

Yatkha Bahal (sometimes spelled Yatka Bahal) is another beautiful and historic monastic courtyard. It’s less crowded and more hidden, preserving its old charm. The courtyard features traditional brick buildings, chaityas (small stupas), and an ancient monastery structure where Buddhist rituals are still performed. It’s an excellent spot to feel the spiritual rhythm of local Kathmandu life.

📍 Meeting Location:

Himalayan Java Coffee, Thamel Chowk, Kathmandu

🕕 Meeting Point: Please meet in front of Himalayan Java Coffee at Thamel Chowk — one of the easiest landmarks in central Thamel. It’s located right at the main intersection of Thamel, across from the Northfield Café and close to Chhetrapati.

🚶‍♂️ Directions: If you’re coming from Durbar Square, walk or take a short taxi to Thamel. When you reach the busy junction filled with souvenir shops and restaurants, you’ll see the Himalayan Java Coffee signboard. It’s on the corner beside Thamel Marg road.

📱 Look for: Your guide Deepak Karki, WhatsApp +9779842376112.