From bustling local eateries to serene monastery dining, Kathmandu serves up unforgettable lunch experiences. I’ve discovered that the most rewarding options combine great food with culture or stunning views. The monastery lunch tours are especially meaningful – you’ll break bread with Buddhist monks while learning about their daily rituals. For active travelers, hiking tours with packed lunches offer breathtaking Himalayan vistas that make every bite taste better. My personal favorite is the wellness retreat lunch experience, where traditional Nepali cuisine meets meditation and yoga in a peaceful setting. These well-organized tours include reliable transportation and knowledgeable local guides. Check out these top lunch experiences that showcase the best of Kathmandu’s food and culture.
Key Points
-
Explore Buddhist culture and lifestyle with a private “Lunch with Nuns” experience at the Nagi Gumba Monastery in Kathmandu’s Shivapuri National Park.
-
Discover sacred sites and scenic locations in the Kathmandu valley on the “Pharping, Dakshinkali, and Chobhar Tour” with a local lunch included.
-
Enjoy a scenic day hike from Nagarkot to Changunarayan, culminating in a packed lunch in nature and a visit to a UNESCO World Heritage site.
-
Indulge in a wellness retreat with an Ayurvedic massage, herbal steam bath, and Shirodhara oil treatment, followed by a healthy Ayurvedic lunch.
-
Experience the thrill of class III rapids and stunning mountain views on the Trishuli River Rafting Tour, a full-day adventure with comprehensive inclusions.
Lunch With Nuns – Monastery
Beginning with a morning pickup from the centrally located meeting point, the Lunch With Nuns – Monastery tour whisks travelers away from the bustling streets of Kathmandu.
Over the course of 4-6 hours, participants embark on a moderate hike through Shivapuri National Park, eventually reaching the serene Nagi Gumba Monastery.
There, they’ll interact with resident nuns and share a culturally-rich lunch in their company.
This immersive experience offers a peaceful transition from Kathmandu’s urban landscape to the tranquility of nature, all while providing insights into Buddhist practices.
With convenient pickup, instant mobile tickets, and a private tour format, this tour is an ideal way for Kathmandu travelers to engage with the local culture.
Read our full review: Lunch With Nuns – Monastery Review
Book now: Check availability
Scenic Day Hike: Nagarkot to Changunarayan With Lunch
Why not embark on a scenic day hike from Nagarkot to Changunarayan, complete with a delightful lunch?
This 5-hour adventure takes you through forests and villages, with stunning views of the Himalayas. The price is $137.06 per person, and the group size is limited to 10 participants.
You’ll enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature, then explore the ancient Changunarayan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The tour includes round-trip transportation, a guided hike, and entry fees.
However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, those with heart, respiratory, or kidney issues, or people with motion sickness.
Reserve your spot now and pay later to secure your place on this scenic day hike.
Read our full review: Scenic Day Hike: Nagarkot to Changunarayan With Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Whole Day Massage & Spa With Lunch
Although the hike from Nagarkot to Changunarayan offers stunning views, those seeking a day focused on wellness and relaxation may consider the Whole Day Massage & Spa With Lunch experience.
This 1-day package includes an Ayurvedic massage, herbal steam bath, and Shirodhara oil treatment. A 1-hour yoga class and healthy Ayurvedic lunch are also provided.
The experience concludes at the initial meeting point, with a full refund available up to 24 hours prior. Reviewers praise the cleanliness and friendly staff, though some suggest room for improvement in lunch quality.
Priced at $101.54, this wellness retreat is competitively positioned compared to similar offerings in Kathmandu.
Read our full review: Whole Day Massage & Spa With Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Chandragiri : Majestic Hilltop & Cable Car Views With Lunch
For those seeking a day of breathtaking panoramic vistas and cultural exploration, the Chandragiri Hill Cable Car Tour from Kathmandu offers an unparalleled experience.
This full-day tour whisks you from your Kathmandu hotel to the Chandragiri Cable Car station, where you’ll glide up the mountain on a scenic cable car ride.
Atop the hill, you’ll admire snowcapped peaks, visit a Hindu temple, and savor a delectable local lunch.
With live guide commentary in English and Japanese, this wheelchair-accessible tour provides hassle-free logistics, from pickup to drop-off.
Priced from $177 per person, it’s a fantastic way to learn about Nepal’s stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Read our full review: Chandragiri : Majestic Hilltop & Cable Car Views With Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Full Day Nagarkot Hiking With UNESCO Heritage Site Changu & Lunch
Setting out on a full-day expedition from Kathmandu, this Nagarkot hiking tour transports visitors into the enchanting heart of Nepal’s natural splendor. Priced from $75 per person, the experience offers a Lowest Price Guarantee and free cancellation.
Guests are picked up from central Kathmandu hotels before embarking on a scenic drive to Nagarkot. The 4-hour downhill hike takes travelers through local villages, showcasing Nepalese culture and architecture.
Highlights include a visit to the UNESCO-listed Changu Narayan Temple and potential views of Mt. Everest. Guides provide knowledgeable commentary, and the private tour format ensures an intimate experience.
With positive reviews and an emphasis on sustainability, this tour delivers a well-rounded glimpse of Nepal’s landscapes and communities.
Read our full review: Full Day Nagarkot Hiking With UNESCO Heritage Site Changu & Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Panoramic Day Hike From Nagarkot to Changunarayan With Lunch
Travelers seeking a captivating day hike in Nepal’s scenic Nagarkot region can embark on the Panoramic Day Hike from Nagarkot to Changunarayan with Lunch.
Priced at €62.27 per person, this full-day excursion takes hikers through picturesque landscapes, rice paddies, and charming villages before arriving at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Changu Narayan Temple.
Along the way, explorers can savor breathtaking Himalayan vistas, including views of Mount Everest.
The hike includes an experienced guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance fees, and a delicious lunch at the temple grounds.
With a 5/5 rating based on positive reviews, this immersive experience offers an unforgettable opportunity to connect with local culture and witness Nepal’s stunning natural beauty.
Read our full review: Panoramic Day Hike From Nagarkot to Changunarayan With Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing Tour Including Lunch
Those seeking an action-packed private tour of Kathmandu’s top highlights should consider the Private Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing Tour Including Lunch.
This VIP tour covers the city’s key UNESCO-listed sites in a single day, including Durbar Square and Pashupati Temple. Travelers will enjoy a savory Nepali lunch with a view of the largest Buddhist stupa.
The tour is ideal for first-time visitors or those with limited time, offering a comprehensive introduction to Kathmandu’s culture and history. While some sites show earthquake damage, the tour remains an efficient way to experience the city’s major attractions.
With private hotel pickup, a knowledgeable guide, and a vegetarian option, this tour is designed for most travelers.
Read our full review: Private Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing Tour Including Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Kakani Hike From Kathmandu With Lunch and Private Vehicle
For those seeking an invigorating day trip from Kathmandu, the Kakani Hike with Lunch and Private Vehicle offers an excellent opportunity to explore the region’s natural beauty.
This full-day excursion includes a scenic drive, a 2-hour hike to the Kakani hilltop, and visits to the Kakani Bazzar and Thai Memorial Park. Along the way, you’ll witness panoramic Himalayan vistas and observe the lifestyle of the local Tamang ethnic group.
The tour includes an English-speaking guide, private transportation, and a delicious lunch at a tourist resort or local restaurant.
With a reasonable price, flexible cancellation policy, and convenient pickup from Kathmandu hotels, this hike is an ideal choice for an active day in the Kathmandu Valley.
Read our full review: Kakani Hike From Kathmandu With Lunch and Private Vehicle Review
Book now: Check availability
Old Kathmandu Tour, Living Goddess, Swayambhu Nath & Nepali Lunch
This Old Kathmandu Tour offers an immersive journey into the historical and cultural heart of the city. Over approximately 4-5 hours, you’ll explore the iconic Kathmandu Durbar Square and the revered Swayambhu Stupa, gaining insights into the country’s rich heritage.
The tour includes private transportation, coffee/tea, and entry fees, ensuring a hassle-free experience. You’ll interact with knowledgeable local guides who’ll bring the sites to life.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers. Cancellations up to 24 hours in advance qualify for a full refund, providing flexibility.
Read our full review: Old Kathmandu Tour, Living Goddess, Swayambhu Nath & Nepali Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Daman Hill Tour From Kathmandu With Lunch and Guide
The Daman Hill Tour from Kathmandu offers travelers a captivating day excursion to a scenic hilltop destination. Priced from €170.55 per person, this 1-day tour includes transportation, an expert guide, entrance fees, and a delightful lunch.
Departing from Kathmandu, the tour takes visitors on a 2.5-hour drive to Daman, where they’ll hike through the jungle and visit a holy site. The highlight is the panoramic views of Mount Everest and other peaks from the 2,400-meter altitude.
Travelers can also interact with a local monk and explore the area’s natural beauty. With a flexible cancellation policy and no advance payment required, this tour is a convenient way to experience Daman’s highlights.
Read our full review: Daman Hill Tour From Kathmandu With Lunch and Guide Review
Book now: Check availability
Kathmandu: Pharping, Dakshinkali and Chobhar Tour With Lunch
Travelers seeking a comprehensive exploration of Kathmandu’s spiritual and natural wonders can embark on the captivating Pharping, Dakshinkali, and Chobhar Tour.
This 6-hour excursion promises a deep dive into the valley’s rich cultural heritage, from the sacred Asura Cave to the historic Shesnarayan and Gorakhnath Temples.
The highlight is the visit to the renowned Dakshinkali Temple, dedicated to the goddess Kali.
After a local lunch, the tour continues to the serene Taudaha Lake and the dramatic Chobhar Gorge.
With expert guides, luxury transportation, and all-inclusive pricing, this tour offers an immersive Kathmandu experience for just $83 per person.
Read our full review: Kathmandu: Pharping, Dakshinkali and Chobhar Tour With Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Thamel: Trishuli River Rafting Tour With Transfers and Lunch
Adrenaline-fueled adventurers can embark on the Thamel: Trishuli River Rafting Tour, which whisks them away from Kathmandu’s bustling streets to the thrilling whitewater rapids of the Trishuli River.
Priced at $250 per person, this full-day excursion includes transportation, rafting equipment, an English-speaking guide, and a hearty lunch.
Participants can expect to paddle through scenic gorges and negotiate class III rapids, all while taking in the stunning Langtang mountain views.
With a small group size and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers an exhilarating way to experience Nepal’s renowned rafting destination.
Read our full review: Thamel: Trishuli River Rafting Tour With Transfers and Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Kathmandu: Nagarkot Private Sunrise Hike With Lunch
For those seeking a more serene and scenic experience beyond the bustling streets of Kathmandu, the Kathmandu: Nagarkot Private Sunrise Hike with Lunch offers a chance to witness the breathtaking Langtang mountain range at dawn.
Priced at $137.99 per person, this 4-hour private group tour includes a 1.5-hour drive to Nagarkot, a 3-hour sunrise viewing, and an optional guided tour of the Changunarayan UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The tour provides hotel pick-up and drop-off, entry fees, a local guide, and a private vehicle. While lunch is included, extra activities, drinks, tips, and personal expenses are not.
The hike isn’t suitable for certain groups, so it’s essential to review the important information before booking.
Read our full review: Kathmandu: Nagarkot Private Sunrise Hike With Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Champadevi: a Day Hike Around Kathmandu With Lunch
A day hike through Champadevi’s magnificent landscapes offers adventurers a chance to enjoy Kathmandu’s natural wonders.
For $73 per person, hikers can embark on an 8-hour excursion, navigating an easy-to-moderate trail that leads to a 2,250-meter summit offering spectacular mountain views.
Along the way, you will explore a traditional village, spot regional flora and fauna, and enjoy a typical Nepali lunch.
Highlights include traversing a beautiful ridge, hiking through pine forests, and discovering sacred sites.
With free cancellation and flexible booking, this day hike is an ideal way to experience Kathmandu’s outdoor treasures.
Read our full review: Champadevi: a Day Hike Around Kathmandu With Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Monastery Lunch Experience?
The dress code for the monastery lunch experience is typically casual and modest. Visitors are expected to wear clean, comfortable clothing that covers the shoulders and knees to respect the religious setting.
Can Vegetarian or Vegan Options Be Accommodated for the Lunch?
Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are accommodated for the monastery lunch experience. The staff is happy to cater to dietary requirements and ensure all guests have an enjoyable and satisfying meal.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Day Hike and Lunch Tours?
Most lunch tours and day hikes in Kathmandu don’t have age restrictions, but some may have minimum age requirements for safety reasons. It’s best to check with the tour operator ahead of time to ensure the activity is suitable for all participants.
How Much Time Is Allotted for the Spa and Lunch Package?
The spa and lunch package typically allots 2-3 hours for the full experience. This includes time for the spa treatments as well as the provided lunch. The exact duration may vary depending on the specific package selected.
Is Transportation to and From the Hiking and Lunch Sites Provided?
Yes, transportation to and from the hiking and lunch sites is typically provided as part of the package. This ensures a seamless experience, allowing you to fully enjoy the activities without worrying about getting there and back.
The Sum Up
Kathmandu offers a variety of exceptional lunch experiences. From tranquil monastery meals to scenic hikes and indulgent spas, there’s something to suit every taste. Visitors can savor local cuisine while taking in stunning views, exploring historic sites, or unwinding in luxury. Whether you’re seeking culture or pure relaxation, Kathmandu’s lunch options provide memorable and unique experiences.