Don't miss this chance to visit some of the most important landmarks and cultural heritage sites of the Kathmandu Valley. Meet your friendly tour guide at your hotel and head for the nearby Ason. Located at the heart of the city, Ason is also the oldest marketplace in Kathmandu. Enjoy the sight of this bustling market that sells everything from clothes and electronics to traditional metal wares.
Walk along its busy streets flanked by old buildings and ornate temples all the way to Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO world heritage site that is home to a number of temples, shrines and palaces. Nearby is the famous Freak Street, probably the most popular Hippy-era junction.
Continue your walk to Swayambhunath, a Buddhist stupa and yet another UNESCO world heritage site in the valley. It is popularly known as 'Monkey Temple’ after its resident primates. Located atop a hill, the temple commands some of the most spectacular views of the entire valley. Ascend 365 steps to reach the temple.
Walk back to Thamel or, alternatively, take a taxi from Swoyambhunath to Thamel.