Panauti Old Town
Step back in time in Panauti, a beautifully preserved Newari town showcasing ancient architecture, spiritual sites, and authentic culture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, soft light
Panauti Old Town
Best Time
Pleasant weather, soft light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time in Panauti, a beautifully preserved Newari town showcasing ancient architecture, spiritual sites, and authentic culture.
"Panauti offers a genuine glimpse into traditional Nepalese life, a refreshing escape from the hustle of Kathmandu."
🚶♀️ Wander the ancient streets
Get lost in the narrow alleys and discover hidden courtyards and traditional Newari houses. :camerawithflash:
🏨 Consider an overnight stay
Experience the town's tranquility after day-trippers leave. :zzz:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Indreshwar Mahadev Temple
Temple Courtyard
A magnificent pagoda-style temple, a spiritual heart of Panauti and a testament to Newari architecture.

Panauti Museum
Near the main square
Discover local history, culture, and traditional crafts in this charming museum.

Triveni Ghat
Confluence of Roshi and Punyamati rivers
A sacred confluence where pilgrims perform rituals, offering a serene and spiritual atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Day Trip or Overnight?
Best Time to Explore
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wander the ancient streets
Get lost in the narrow alleys and discover hidden courtyards and traditional Newari houses. :camerawithflash:
🏨 Consider an overnight stay
Experience the town's tranquility after day-trippers leave. :zzz:
Nepal: do people usually make Bhaktapur, Panauti etc a day trip or make it a stay?
Travelling to Nepal :Things to know as a tourist.
🙏 Respect local customs
Dress modestly when visiting temples and be mindful of local traditions. :pray:
📸 Capture the architecture
Panauti's intricate woodwork and pagoda-style temples are a photographer's dream. :iphone:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wander the ancient streets
Get lost in the narrow alleys and discover hidden courtyards and traditional Newari houses. :camerawithflash:
🏨 Consider an overnight stay
Experience the town's tranquility after day-trippers leave. :zzz:
🙏 Respect local customs
Dress modestly when visiting temples and be mindful of local traditions. :pray:
📸 Capture the architecture
Panauti's intricate woodwork and pagoda-style temples are a photographer's dream. :iphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Panauti for its authentic Newari culture, well-preserved architecture, and peaceful atmosphere, offering a genuine glimpse into traditional Nepalese life. It's a refreshing escape from the hustle of Kathmandu, with its spiritual sites and charming streets being major draws. Some find the town's quietness a bit too much, and dining options can be limited.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Panauti is about 32 km southeast of Kathmandu. You can hire a taxi or take a local bus from Ratna Park or Koteshwor. The bus ride takes around 1.5-2 hours, offering a glimpse of rural Nepal. Taxis are faster but more expensive.
Absolutely! Panauti is perfect for a day trip from Kathmandu. You can explore its temples, museum, and charming streets within a few hours and return by evening.
Panauti is best explored on foot. The old town is compact, and walking allows you to soak in the atmosphere and discover its hidden gems. :athletic_shoe:
While there isn't a general entrance fee for the town itself, some specific sites like the Panauti Museum might have a small admission charge. It's always good to carry some cash. :moneywithwings:
Yes, you can visit Panauti with luggage. Many travelers treat it as a day trip from Kathmandu, but if you plan to stay overnight, you can find guesthouses.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Most temples are open from early morning until evening. The Panauti Museum typically opens around 10 AM and closes by 5 PM, but hours can vary. It's best to check locally. :clock10:
No advance booking is usually required for Panauti. You can purchase tickets for specific sites like the museum upon arrival. :ticket:
Generally, no special permits are required for tourists to visit Panauti. It's an open town for exploration. :world_map:
It's advisable to carry Nepalese Rupees in cash, especially for smaller purchases, local buses, and entrance fees. ATMs are available in nearby towns but might be scarce within Panauti itself. :moneywithwings:
The ancient cobblestone streets and steps in Panauti can be challenging for those with mobility issues. It's best to be prepared for uneven terrain. :wheelchair:
📸 📸 Photography
The Indreshwar Mahadev Temple complex, the ghats by the river, and the traditional Newari houses with their intricate woodwork are prime photography locations. Don't miss the narrow alleys.
Photography is generally allowed in public areas. However, always be respectful and ask permission before photographing individuals, especially inside temples where it might be prohibited. :camerawithflash:
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a warm glow. This is also when crowds are typically thinner. :sunriseovermountains:
Drone usage might be restricted in certain areas, especially around religious sites. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone to avoid any issues. :aerial_tramway:
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both architecture and street scenes. A wide-angle lens can be useful for temples, and a prime lens for low-light situations. :camera:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find local eateries and small restaurants serving traditional Newari cuisine, dal bhat, and momos. Look for places frequented by locals for authentic flavors. :ramen:
Don't miss out on trying Newari specialties like 'Samay Baji' (a platter of various snacks), 'Chatamari' (Newari pizza), and 'Yomari' (a sweet dumpling). :dumpling:
While tempting, it's wise to exercise caution with street food. Opt for freshly cooked items from busy stalls. Drinking bottled or purified water is highly recommended. :stew:
Yes, vegetarian options are widely available, especially 'Dal Bhat' (lentil soup with rice and vegetables), which is a staple in Nepal. :leafy_green:
You might find a few small cafes offering tea and coffee. For a wider selection, you'd typically find more options in larger towns like Kathmandu or Bhaktapur. :coffee:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing light snacks and plenty of water, as dining options might be limited to local eateries. The Triveni Ghat offers a peaceful spot for a break, where kids can observe the river and local activities from a safe distance. Focus on the visual aspects of the town – the colorful prayer flags, unique architecture, and friendly locals – to keep younger travelers interested.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Accommodation options in Panauti are generally more affordable than in larger cities, with simple guesthouses available for those wishing to stay overnight. For meals, local eateries serving staples like Dal Bhat and momos are budget-friendly and delicious. Embrace the simplicity and authenticity of Panauti to make the most of your budget.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Charm of Panauti
Many buildings in Panauti are constructed using traditional techniques, with exposed brickwork and wooden beams. The town's layout itself reflects ancient urban planning, with public spaces and religious sites strategically placed. The Panauti Museum offers a closer look at the tools and techniques used by artisans, providing context to the stunning structures you see. Exploring these architectural details is a highlight for many visitors.
Pay attention to the small details: the carved deities on temple struts, the decorative window frames, and the communal water spouts (hiti). These elements contribute to the unique aesthetic of Panauti and offer fantastic opportunities for photography. The sense of stepping back in time is palpable.
Spiritual Significance and Rivers
The Indreshwar Mahadev Temple is central to Panauti's spiritual life, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It's not just a place of worship but also a hub for cultural festivals and community gatherings. The temple's history is intertwined with the town's development, making it a focal point for understanding local beliefs and traditions. The spiritual aura of Panauti is deeply felt by visitors.
Beyond the main temple, numerous smaller shrines and monasteries dot the town, each with its own history and significance. Experiencing the blend of daily life and deep-rooted spirituality is a unique aspect of visiting Panauti.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit