The Kathmandu Valley is at the center of Nepal and rich in culture as well as being one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites that contains the creative efforts of man over centuries, along with the diverse religious practices that exist today and incredibly beautiful architecture. Each year, many people interested in history, travelling or a pilgrimage visit these sites to see the continued evolution of religions like Hinduism and Buddhism, the wonderful carved wooden structures and shop in areas that are historic in nature.
If you are looking at travelling to Kathmandu in 2026, you need to be aware of the entrance fees associated with visiting these UNESCO sites. We have compiled this guide with the current information about ticket prices, visitor tips and insight into the culture so that when the time comes you will more comfortably plan your visit.
What Makes These Sites UNESCO World Heritage Sites?
Kathmandu Valley is home to seven major areas that were deemed UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1979, as they represent a remarkable array of cultural significance. The seven major areas include:
- Durbar Squares in Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur
- Swayambhunath Stupa
- Pashupatinath Temple
- Boudhanath Stupa
- Changunarayan Temple
Each of the seven areas has its own unique story and is revered by people of faith and curiosity alike.
Entrance Fees Overview (2026)
The Government of Nepal has standardized the entrance fees at major UNESCO sites in Kathmandu to support preservation and management efforts. Prices in 2026 reflect a balance between tourism promotion and cultural conservation. Here’s a breakdown of the entrance fees:
1. Kathmandu Durbar Square
- Foreign Tourist Entrance Fee: NPR 1500
- SAARC Country Tourist Fee: NPR 750
- Nepali Citizen Fee: NPR 50
- Notes: Ticket valid for 3 days
2. Patan Durbar Square
- Foreign Tourist Entrance Fee: NPR 1500
- SAARC Country Tourist Fee: NPR 750
- Nepali Citizen Fee: NPR 50
- Notes: Entry via official gate only
3. Bhaktapur Durbar Square
- Foreign Tourist Entrance Fee: NPR 1500
- SAARC Country Tourist Fee: NPR 750
- Nepali Citizen Fee: NPR 50
- Notes: Includes museum access
4. Swayambhunath Stupa
- Foreign Tourist Entrance Fee: NPR 2000
- SAARC Country Tourist Fee: NPR 1000
- Nepali Citizen Fee: NPR 100
- Notes: Includes stupa complex
5. Pashupatinath Temple
- Foreign Tourist Entrance Fee: NPR 1000 (East Entrance)
- SAARC Country Tourist Fee: NPR 500
- Nepali Citizen Fee: Free inside
- Notes: Non-Hindus entrance fees only
6. Boudhanath Stupa
- Foreign Tourist Entrance Fee: NPR 1000
- SAARC Country Tourist Fee: NPR 500
- Nepali Citizen Fee: NPR 100
- Notes: Includes stupa area
7. Changunarayan Temple
- Foreign Tourist Entrance Fee: NPR 600
- SAARC Country Tourist Fee: NPR 300
- Nepali Citizen Fee: NPR 30
- Notes: UNESCO-listed Hindu temple
Fee Structures: In-Depth Information
1. Kathmandu Durbar Square
This historical royal plaza served as the location for the previously ruling body of Nepal. The square showcases excellent examples of Newar construction. The entry fee for foreign tourists is NPR 1500, which allows full access to the complex; this includes palaces, temples and courtyards. The ticket is valid for three days, giving travelers ample time to take their time inside the areas.
2. Patan Durbar Square
Located near Kathmandu, Patan Durbar Square is an area known for exceptional temple carvings and the typical royal palace from years past. A foreign ticket is priced similarly to that of Kathmandu’s. Visitors to Patan Durbar Square are only permitted to enter through the main gates where ticketing personnel are positioned to ensure valid entry into the square area and maintain site safety.
3. Bhaktapur Durbar Square
This square is the location of a beautifully maintained medieval city, costing foreign travelers NPR 1500 for entry. Included in the cost of admission is access to the National Art Gallery, where beautiful paubha paintings and other artifacts are located.
4. Swayambhunath Stupa
Also known as the "Monkey Temple," Swayambhunath is one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites. Your ticket purchase will allow you to enter the stupa complex and the surrounding monasteries. Due to the expense of maintaining this site, the fee is greater than that of the other sites.
5. Pashupatinath Temple
In the city of Kathmandu is located Pashupatinath Temple, the most revered of all Hindu temples to Lord Shiva in Nepal. The east gate is the main entry point for en route entry by foreign nationals who are charged an entrance fee of NPR 1000. Locals and devotees may enter without charge through the western gate, but only Hindus are allowed into the inner sanctum of the temple. Non-Hindus should respect the temple’s entry restrictions.
6. Boudhanath Stupa
Boudhanath is the spiritual center of Tibetan Buddhism and the entrance fees are used for maintenance of the large stupa and monastery complex surrounding it. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful environment to meditate or observe the ritual of walking around a stupa in prayer.
7. Changunarayan Temple
Changunarayan Temple, located to the east of central Kathmandu, is the oldest Hindu temple in Nepal and has a lower cost for entry than many other tourist sites; however, due to the incredible sculptures and history found at this temple, it is worth the price.
General Tips for Visitors
- Ticket Seller: Only purchase tickets directly from a ticket counter or authorized vendor located at each site of interest. It is common for travellers to be scammed by vendors who sell fake tickets at very popular tourist locations.
- Multiple Days: Some sites (Durbar Squares) offer discounted tickets for up to three consecutive days; thus, planning a trip around visiting these sites at various times and for taking photographs is advantageous.
- Observe Local Cultural Norms: Dress appropriately when visiting temples. At religious sites, many temples do not allow photos in their sanctuaries.
- Carry ID: If you are a citizen of South Asia and wish to buy discounted SAARC tickets, you need to show identification as proof (for example, your passport).
- Group Visits are Efficient: Several tours in the Kathmandu Valley provide access to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites in The Kathmandu Valley; purchasing tour tickets for multiple sites may also save on ticket/inclusion costs.
How Third Eye Adventure Can Enhance Your Visit
Exploring Kathmandu’s UNESCO heritage sites can be a transformative experience, especially when done with local experts who know the history, legends, and hidden gems behind the monuments. Third Eye Adventure offers curated tours across Kathmandu Valley that include professional guides, transportation, and cultural insights.
Choosing Third Eye Adventure ensures:
- Skip the lines with priority access tickets
- In-depth storytelling from knowledgeable guides
- Customized itineraries that fit your interests and pace
- Support for responsible tourism benefiting local communities
Booking a guided tour with Third Eye Adventure not only enriches your cultural experience but also helps preserve Kathmandu Valley’s heritage for future generations.
Planning Your Kathmandu Heritage Tour in 2026
To maximize your stay in Kathmandu, you'll need to take into account the opening times for each site and peak visitation times:
- Typical Morning times are less crowded at Swayambhunath and Boudhanath with beautiful sunlight.
- Photographing Durbar Squares during the Late Afternoon with fewer crowds and softer Lighting.
- Pashupatinath Temple & Various Other Temples are often the most Vibrant with Energy during Special Hindu Festivals.
Conclusion
Experiencing the various UNESCO World Heritage sites throughout the Kathmandu Valley goes far beyond tourist attractions - you are travelling through the values and beliefs of Nepal’s warm and open social culture and will contribute through your fees toward maintaining these beautiful buildings for all future years.
When planning your excursion, the best way is to go with Third Eye Adventure. Their experienced tour guides, personalized scheduling, and pre-booking privilege will take your trip around the Kathmandu Valley from sightseeing to an Adventure experience.
Open the Books of History written upon every Temple, Courtyard, Stupa or chorten - people who have not entered, would never know the legends - and enjoy Kathmandu as a true "insider!"
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can the charges be modified in peak periods?
A: Entrance charges are standardized for the whole year as determined by the government, but packages for tourists may vary during peak season.
Q: Can children enter for free?
A: Typically, kids under 10-years-old can enter for free, but this also depends on which site you’re visiting. Verify with local authorities before your visit, though.
Q: Can there be combined tickets?
A: There isn’t an official combined ticket for all UNESCO sites in Kathmandu yet. You must purchase separate tickets.
Q: Can Nepali nationals purchase foreign tickets?
A: No, Nepali nationals should buy local rates with their identification for not overpaying.
