The Bungamati, Khokana & Patan Sightseeing Tour is a unique full-day journey that combines authentic Newari village life with the artistic splendor of one of Nepal's most beautiful royal cities. This tour offers a rare glimpse into traditional lifestyles that have remained largely unchanged for centuries, followed by the architectural and artistic treasures of Patan.
Bungamati is a traditional Newari village located on the banks of the Bagmati River, south of Kathmandu. It is considered the birthplace of the god Rato Machhindranath, the patron deity of Patan, and his magnificent chariot festival begins here every year. The village is also renowned for its woodcarving tradition, with skilled artisans creating intricate temple carvings and decorative pieces. Walking through Bungamati's narrow brick-paved streets, you'll see traditional Newari houses with carved windows and doors, and experience a pace of life far removed from the capital.
Khokana, just a short distance from Bungamati, is a medieval Newari village that has preserved its traditional character remarkably well. It is famous throughout Nepal for its mustard oil production, using traditional stone presses powered by water buffalo. The village's narrow alleys, traditional houses, and agricultural lifestyle offer an authentic glimpse into rural Newari culture. Khokana was also the first village in Nepal to have electricity, and its unique layout and architecture make it a fascinating place to explore.
The tour concludes in Patan (Lalitpur), the 'City of Fine Arts,'where you'll explore the magnificent Patan Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its stunning collection of temples, the ancient royal palace (now the Patan Museum), and living artisan quarters, Patan provides a perfect contrast to the rural villages you visited earlier. This combination of village life and royal heritage offers a comprehensive understanding of Newari culture in all its dimensions.
