Folklore and Everyday Life in Ancient Patan

5.0 (5 reviews) Kathmandu, Nepal
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Duration2h - 2h 30m
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Group sizeUp to 10 travelers

Overview

Hidden among towering palaces and glittering shrines, narrow streets and tucked courtyards of ancient Patan are full of stories, folklores, and myths.

Walk with us to uncover layers of history as we navigate the urban landscape to explore how the old town has evolved through the years. We will also dive into the faith practices of Newar Buddhism, Tantric Hinduisim and see how they shape everyday life in Patan today.

This walking tour is for everyone who is curious to learn
about Nepali society, specifically the Kathmandu valley . Our walk will contextualize traditions of past with ambitions of future as young Nepalis embrace their cultural norms while engaging modern values.

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Please note this tour doesn't cover Patan Durbar Square. We are intentionally exploring the old town around the main square for a more local, nuanced perspective.

If you wish, you can independently visit the main square after the tour; the museum is worth visiting! There are extra admission fees.

What's included

  • Experienced Local Guide
  • Pick up and Drop off
  • Patan Durbar Square is not included

What to expect

  1. Patan (Lalitpur)
    Pass by
    Our guide will meet you at the entrance gate of the old town of Patan and take you on a fascinating walk through the narrow streets and wide courtyard, nestled next to towering palaces and glittering shrines. Through out your walk, we will share stories, folklores, and myths that make this ancient city come alive.
  2. Pimbahal
    30m
    In our first series of walks through traditional courtyard, we discuss how traditional urban settlements in Patan embody spiritual practices and indigenous knowledge.

    These courtyards open to Pimbahal, a Newar Buddhist monastery dating back to 15th century, where we discuss faith practices and tangible art of Buddhist philosophies.

    Then, we exit through narrow streets to the beautiful Pimbahal Pond.
  3. 30m
    From Pimbahal, we take a cosy path where we can observe traditional architecture such as falchaa (resting areas), ancestral shrines, and beautiful vernacular houses.

    We enter another courtyard Nyakhachowk, which houses one of the most important Theravada monastries of Kathmandu valley. Next to the monastery, in an interesting juxtaposition, is an animist shrine belong to Nyasa Dyo - an indigenous deity who is the patron of the arts - dance, music, painting, etc.

    And then, we walk further to Aki Bhahal - a courtyard that is truly a testament to how traditional buildings have given way to modern architecture in the city. We will explore these changes in the built enviornment and walk further to Pradhan Chowk - the most elegant and majestic traditional courtyard of old Patan built by traders who connected Kathmandu valley with Tibet.
  4. 15m
    We then explore Nag Bahal, one of largest courtyards in old Patan, where we can discuss how globalization in ancient times have shaped traditional art. The Greek influence and Hellenistic impressions in Buddhist/Hindu iconography is remarkable.

    If you wish, we could stop at the majestic Golden Temple, which is ticketed and costs 100 NPR for entrance.
  5. 15m
    We end our walking tour in this beautiful square with several temples, shrines, and tea shops.

    If you wish, we can guide you towards Patan Durbar Square, the main temple complex, where you can independently explore the stunning musuem and take in the art/history.

    Or, you can head back with us to the end point, which is the same as the meeting point: Patan Dhoka.
  6. Golden Temple (Hiranya Varna Mahavihar)
    Pass by
    This is one of the most well respected and embellished Buddhist monastery of the Patan area with more than 4000+ ordained monks who are part of the monastic order.

    It is a great place to stop and marvel at the intricate woodwork and metal carving details throughout the complex. Please note that there is a separate entrance fee of NPR 100 to this complex, that is not included as part of our tour cost.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

We meet right at the big white entrance gate to the old town of Patan - the Patan Dhoka.

End point

We end the tour at Swotha Square - which is just a couple minutes walk to the historic Patan Durbar Square, the old palace complex.

If you wish, you can independently visit the Patan Durbar square (ticketed) after the tour; the museum inside the old palace is highly recommended!

Additional information

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

5.0 (5)
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