Things To Do
in Panauti

Panauti is a picturesque town located about 30 kilometers southeast of Kathmandu, known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional Newari architecture. The town is situated at the confluence of the Panauti and Roshi rivers and is surrounded by lush green hills, making it a serene getaway. Panauti is famous for its ancient temples, vibrant festivals, and a relaxed atmosphere that draws in visitors seeking authenticity.

The local community is warm and welcoming, offering travelers a glimpse into their unique customs and way of life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Panauti Museum, where you can learn about the local history and culture.

afternoon
:

Explore the historic temples of Panauti, including the renowned Bhimsen Temple and Mahadev Temple, followed by a leisurely walk around the old town.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Newari dinner at a local restaurant and take a stroll along the riverside to experience the tranquility of the area.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Head out for a morning hike to the nearby hilltop of Namo Buddha, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site.

afternoon
:

Return to Panauti and visit the local market to shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs.

evening
:

Wind down your day by enjoying the sunset at the riverside, followed by sampling some local street food.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍲Meal at a local restaurant$2 - $5
Coffee$1 - $2
🚕Taxi fare within town$1 - $3
🛍️Souvenir$5 - $10
🏨Budget hotel per night$10 - $20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage
  • Beautiful natural landscapes
  • Friendly local community
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Public transport can be sparse
  • Language barriers may exist
  • "नमस्ते" - Hello
  • "धन्यवाद" - Thank you
  • "कसरी हुनुहुन्छ?" - How are you?
  • "मलाई माया छ" - I love it
  • "सहयोग गर्नुहोस्" - Help, please

Places to Visit in Panauti

Visit one of these nice places.

Bhimsen Temple

An ancient temple with intricate wood carvings, perfect for capturing the essence of Newari architecture.

Riverside Views

The confluence of the rivers offers stunning landscapes, particularly during sunrise and sunset.

Local Market Scenes

Capture the vibrant colors and interactions of local vendors and shoppers.

Culinary Guide

Food in Panauti

Panauti offers a delightful array of traditional Newari dishes that reflect the rich culinary heritage of the region.

Panauti Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kwati

A nutritious mixed bean soup, often enjoyed during the festival of Janai Purnima.

Must-Try!

Yomari

A sweet dumpling made of rice flour filled with coconut and jaggery.

Bara

Fried lentil patties usually served with achar (spicy pickle).

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Panauti Market

A vibrant local market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and traditional snacks.

Street Vendors

Look out for vendors selling samosas, pani puri, and other local snacks along the streets.

Climate Guide

Weather

Panauti experiences a mild climate throughout the year. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. Summers can be hot and humid, with temperatures exceeding 30°C, while winters are cool, often dropping to 5°C at night. Monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rainfall, making the area green and vibrant but can disrupt travel plans.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Remove Shoes

It is customary to remove shoes before entering homes and temples.

Respect Elders

Always greet and show respect to elders in the community.

Photography Permissions

Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in rural areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Panauti is generally safe for tourists, but basic precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas, and keep valuables secure. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers health and accidents.

Tipping in Panauti

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated; rounding up the bill or leaving 10% is customary in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Cash is preferred; however, some places may accept mobile payments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (March - May)

Mild weather and blooming flowers make this a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer (June - August)

Expect heavy rainfall; travel may be challenging but the landscapes are lush.

Autumn (September - November)

Clear skies and pleasant temperatures; ideal for trekking and photography.

Winter (December - February)

Cool temperatures; be prepared for chilly evenings but it’s still a good time to explore.

Nightlife Guide

Panauti at Night

Panauti has a laid-back nightlife scene, primarily focused on local eateries and cafes. Most places close early, but you can find some spots that offer live music or cultural performances on weekends. The riverside area is a peaceful place to enjoy the evening with friends, and you may encounter locals enjoying conversations over tea and snacks.

Hiking in Panauti

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Namo Buddha Trek

A scenic trek that leads to Namo Buddha, a significant Buddhist site with stunning views of the valley.

Bhaktapur to Panauti

A moderate hike that connects two historic towns, offering beautiful landscapes and cultural experiences along the way.

Airports

How to reach Panauti by plane.

Tribhuvan International Airport

Located about 30 kilometers from Panauti, this is the main international airport serving Kathmandu and the surrounding region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Panauti is highly walkable, with most attractions within a short distance. The town's narrow streets are charming and pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some areas may have uneven terrain, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Newars

The Newars are the indigenous people of the Kathmandu Valley, known for their rich culture, art, and cuisine.

Brahmins

This group plays a significant role in the social and religious life of the region, often involved in temple management and rituals.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is widely played and loved among locals, with many informal games taking place in open fields.

Basketball

Basketball courts can be found in schools and community centers, making it a popular sport among the youth.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Panauti is generally light compared to larger cities like Kathmandu. The town is small, making it easy to navigate on foot or by bicycle. For longer distances, you can find local buses or taxis, although public transport options may be limited.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Panauti.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes are vegetarian, but it's best to confirm with the restaurant.

Gluten-Free

While options are limited, rice-based dishes are widely available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Panauti are basic, with several small clinics and pharmacies available. For serious medical issues, it's advisable to travel to Kathmandu, where more comprehensive healthcare services are available. Always have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Nepal

Read more in our Nepal 2025 Travel Guide.

Nepal Travel Guide