Patan Travel Guide

Discover the culturally rich Patan in Nepal with this comprehensive travel guide. Find information on places to visit, outdoor adventures, food and drink, safety, transportation, and more.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Patan, Nepal

Patan, located in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal, is a culturally rich and historically significant city. With its ancient temples, palaces, and vibrant markets, it is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Nepal. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll give you all the information you need to plan an unforgettable trip to Patan.

Introduction to Patan

Patan, also known as Lalitpur, is one of three royal cities in the Kathmandu Valley. It was a major center of Buddhism and Hinduism during the Malla era and is home to some of the finest examples of Newari architecture in the region. The city is bursting with cultural and religious festivals and celebrations throughout the year, making it an excellent destination for travelers who want to experience a unique cultural immersion.

List of Places to Visit in Patan

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Patan has a wealth of historical and cultural attractions to explore. Here are some of the must-visit places:

  • Patan Durbar Square: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the major attractions in Patan. The square is home to ancient palaces, temples, and statues, including the Krishna Temple, the Kumbeshwar Temple, and the Taleju Temple.

  • Patan Museum: Housed in the restored residence of a Malla king, Patan Museum has an impressive collection of bronze statues, religious objects, and traditional crafts from the Malla era.

  • Golden Temple: Also known as the Hiranyavarna Mahavihara, the Golden Temple is a stunning three-story pagoda-style temple. The temple is dedicated to the deity Vajrayogini and is adorned with gold and silver ornaments inside and out.

Natural Attractions of Patan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Patan is situated in a valley surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Here are some of the natural attractions you must visit:

  • Godavari Botanical Garden: This scenic garden, situated on the southern slope of Shivapuri Hill, is home to a variety of rare and exotic plants, trees, and flowers.

  • Kathmandu Valley Rim Trek: If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, the Kathmandu Valley Rim Trek could be a perfect option. It’s a moderate-level trek that offers panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, green hills, and stony rivers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Patan

If you’re a hiking or biking enthusiast, then Patan has got some fantastic options for you. Some of the famous hiking/biking routes include:

  • Phulchoki Hike: Phulchoki is an eight-kilometer hike from the nearest town of Godavari. The trail takes you through dense forests with colorful flowers, chirping birds, and occasional glimpses of rare wildlife.

  • Sankhu to Nagarkot Biking Tour: The biking tour will take you through lush forests, traditional Newari Villages, and picturesque landscapes. The route is mainly downhill, and you can enjoy the breathtaking views of the Himalayas throughout your journey.

Best Things to Do in Patan: Activities and Tours

Apart from visiting cultural and natural attractions, there are several fun activities and tours to indulge in when in Patan. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Newari Cooking Class: Learn the art of traditional Newari cuisine with a local family in Patan. You can visit a local market to buy fresh ingredients, and then learn to cook typical Nepali dishes like dal bhat, momos, and chow mein.

  • Patan Walking Tour: Explore the hidden corners of Patan with a local guide to learn about the city’s rich cultural heritage and history.

Week-Long Itinerary for Patan

Patan offers so much to see and do, so here’s a week-long itinerary to help you make the most of your visit:

Day Activity
1 Arrival and check-in, and spend the day acclimatizing to the city.
2 Visit Patan Durbar Square and Golden Temple.
3 Hike to Phulchoki and enjoy the beauty of the valley.
4 Visit Patan Museum and explore traditional arts and crafts.
5 Take the Kathmandu Valley Rim Trek for a challenging hike.
6 Take a cooking class and enjoy your homemade meal.
7 Explore the local markets, buy souvenirs and local products to bring back home.

Food and Drink Scene of Patan

Must-Try Dishes

Newari cuisine is at the heart of Patan’s food culture, and there are several dishes that you must try during your visit:

  • Choila: A spicy grilled meat dish typically made with buffalo, chicken, or goat.

  • Yomari: A sweet dumpling made with rice flour and filled with molasses, sesame, or coconut.

Local Beverages

Nepal has unique beverages with rich cultural significance, and here are some drinks you must try during your visit to Patan:

  • Chhang: A traditional Newari alcoholic beverage made from fermented rice.

  • Masala tea: A popular tea beverage that uses spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger.

Where to Stay in Patan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Patan has a variety of accommodations to choose from, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Summit Hotel: A luxurious hotel located on the hillside of Kathmandu valley with stunning views of the city and the Himalayas.

  • The Heart of Patan: A cozy guesthouse located in the heart of Patan’s Durbar Square.

What to Buy in Patan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Patan is known for its traditional arts and crafts, and there are plenty of items you can buy as souvenirs or gifts for your loved ones. Some popular items include:

  • Thangka Paintings: These Buddhist art pieces depict various religious scenes or mandalas.

  • Metal Works: You can buy brass or bronze statues, utensils, and other metal craftwork from shops around Patan.

Local Culture and Customs of Patan

The Patanese people are very proud of their culture, which is strongly influenced by religion and tradition. Here are some things to keep in mind when traveling through Patan:

  • Dress modestly when visiting temples and other religious sites.

  • Remove your shoes when entering temples and private homes.

Best Time to Visit Patan

The best time to visit Patan is during the spring and autumn seasons, from March to May and September to November. The weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear, making it ideal for outdoor activities and adventure sports.

Do’s and Don’ts of Patan

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.

  • Learn some basic Nepali phrases before you travel.

Don’t:

  • Worry about haggling with vendors for small items.

  • Take photographs of religious ceremonies without prior permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Patan

Patan is generally safe for tourists, but it’s always good to take some precautions. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Always carry a copy of your passport and other important documents with you.

  • Keep your valuables in a secure place.

Health in Patan

Nepal has a high altitude, so it’s essential to take some precautions to avoid health problems. Here are some tips for staying healthy in Patan:

  • Drink bottled water and avoid tap water.

  • Avoid eating street food and uncooked vegetables.

Getting to Patan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Patan

Tribhuvan International Airport, located in Kathmandu, is the nearest airport to Patan. It’s approximately 30-40 minutes drive from Patan.

Bus Stations Near Patan

Kathmandu Bus Station and Kalanki Bus Station are the nearest bus stations to Patan. Regular buses ply between these stations and Patan, and the journey takes around 20-30 minutes.

Other Options

You can also hire a taxi or hire a private car for a more comfortable journey.

How to Get Around in Patan

Patan is a small city, and you can easily get around on foot. Alternatively, you can also rent a bicycle, scooter or hire a taxi to explore the city.

Where to Go Next from Patan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Patan is located in the Kathmandu Valley, and there are several other attractions nearby that you must visit:

  • Bhaktapur: Another medieval city in the Kathmandu Valley, famous for its temples and traditional crafts.

  • Swayambhunath: A UNESCO World Heritage Site located on a hilltop, also known as the Monkey Temple.

Conclusion

Patan is a city bursting with history, culture, and natural beauty that every traveler should visit when in Nepal. With this comprehensive travel guide, you can plan an unforgettable trip to Patan, filled with adventure, cultural immersion, and unique experiences that will last a lifetime.

A view of Patan's Durbar Square. A view of Patan's Durbar Square. Map of Patan Durbar Square Map of Patan Durbar Square A view of the stone Krishna Temple with Garuda to the right. A view of the stone Krishna Temple with Garuda to the right. Suraschandra Mahavihar, Patan Suraschandra Mahavihar, Patan Kontihiti Kumbheswar, Patan Kontihiti Kumbheswar, Patan A view of the Golden Temple in Patan. A view of the Golden Temple in Patan. Bangalamukhi temple complex Bangalamukhi temple complex Uma-maheswar Temple Uma-maheswar Temple A fruit vendor, Lalitpur A fruit vendor, Lalitpur Local vegetables Local vegetables Lagankhel Market, Patan Lagankhel Market, Patan Layeku Kitchen, Mangal Bazar, Patan Layeku Kitchen, Mangal Bazar, Patan Teej festival Teej festival A nice facade in Patan A nice facade in Patan