Practical Tips & Hacks: Patan

Money-Saving Strategies

Travelers often discover ways to reduce costs without compromising their experience. These tips outline ways to save money in Patan.

Activities and Attractions

Wander the local alleys and courtyards (bahals) in Patan.
Enjoy the ambiance of local markets.
Visit smaller, local community temples without an entry fee.
Take self-guided walks through Patan's historic neighborhoods.

Dining and Deals

Look for 'set meals' at local eateries for good value.
Dhal Bhat options offer generous portions at low prices.
Some restaurants in Jhamsikhel and Pulchowk might have happy hour deals.
Explore local cafes for specific dining specials.

Transportation

Use local buses and microbuses for inter-valley travel.
Utilize ride-sharing apps like Pathao and Tootle for cheaper options.
Walk extensively within Patan's compact old city.
Walking Patan saves money and opens discovery of hidden gems.

Accommodation

Consider staying in guesthouses or homestays.
These often present an authentic and budget-friendly experience.
Some alternative accommodations might include meals.
Explore options beyond larger hotels for value.

Time-Saving Tips

Efficient planning supports maximizing your time in Patan, allowing you to see more without feeling rushed.

Attraction Timing

Patan Durbar Square entry usually involves quick purchase.
Early visits allow for a more relaxed visit and optimal light for photography.
Avoid mid-day when tour groups arrive.

Efficient Routing & Booking

Group nearby attractions together, like Patan Durbar Square and Golden Temple.
Use Google Maps to plan walking routes within Patan.
Pre-book accommodation, especially during peak season.
International flights are booked well in advance.

Express Transportation

Ride-sharing bikes (Tootle, Pathao Bike) offer quick navigation.
These are quickest through Kathmandu Valley traffic.
For solo travelers with light luggage, they are fast and affordable.

Site Access

Patan Durbar Square typically has no significant lines.
For other popular sites, morning visits help avoid crowds.
Late afternoon also presents a relaxed visit opportunity.
Peak crowds are during mid-day and major festivals.

Local Insights

These insights cover common tourist mistakes, local customs, and social norms.

Common Mistakes

Not bargaining politely for taxis, rickshaws, and in local markets.
Drinking tap water; always use sealed bottled, filtered, or boiled water.
Disrespectful attire, especially at religious sites (cover shoulders and knees).
Ignoring traffic rules; traffic is chaotic, look both ways.

Local Customs

Remove shoes before entering temples, homes, or certain shops/restaurants.
Use your right hand for eating, giving, or receiving objects.
Do not touch someone's head. Do not point feet at people or sacred objects.
A gentle side-to-side head shake means "no" or "okay".

Social Norms

Public displays of affection are generally not common.
Patience and a positive attitude enhance interactions.
Learning "Namaste" (hello) and "Dhanyabad" (thank you) shows respect.
"Kati cha?" (How much is this?) supports warmer interactions.

Solo Traveler Opportunities

Patan is generally safe for solo travelers.
Stay in hostels with communal areas to meet others.
Join guided tours or cooking classes for social interaction.
Engage politely with locals.

Family & Group Advice

Tailored advice for families and groups visiting Patan.

Family-Friendly Adaptations

Plan a slower pace with frequent breaks for children.
Many restaurants cater to international tastes; momos are often a hit.
Taxis or ride-sharing cars are more comfortable than crowded buses.
Pack plenty of snacks, Hand sanitizer, and kid-friendly medications.

Attractions for Kids

Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) is often enjoyable due to monkeys.
Godawari Botanical Garden presents open space for play.
Consider local craft workshops for engaging activities.
Explore historical sites at a relaxed pace.

Group Logistics

For groups, pre-book accommodation if multiple rooms are required.
Arranging transport like a private van with a driver is necessary.
Consider hiring a private guide for group efficiency.
Confirm all reservations in advance for a smooth experience.

Accessibility Considerations

Patan presents challenges for travelers with mobility concerns.
Uneven terrain and stairs exist at heritage sites.
Research specific accommodations and attractions thoroughly.
Specialized tour operators assist with significant accessibility needs.

Quick Tip

For the best value in dining, explore local eateries offering 'set meals' like Dhal Bhat.

Resources & References

This section details recommendations for digital and print resources, emergency contacts, and further avenues for exploration.

Digital Tools

Essential apps and websites for planning and navigation.

Print Resources

Guidebooks, maps, and cultural books for offline reference.

Emergency Info

Important contacts and protocols for safety and well-being.

Essential Apps for Patan

Navigation & Communication

Pathao / Tootle: For ride-sharing services (bikes and cars).
Google Maps: Download offline maps of the Kathmandu Valley.
Google Translate: Download the offline Nepali language pack.

Financial & Official

XE Currency: For quick currency conversion.
Department of Immigration, Nepal: For visa information.
Nepal Tourism Board: For general tourism information.

Further Digital Content

Consult well-regarded travel blogs/forums (e.g., TripAdvisor forums) for recent traveler experiences. Search for podcasts about Nepali culture, history, or travel experiences before or during your trip.

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Numbers

Main Services

Police: 100
Ambulance: 102
Fire: 101
Tourist Police: +977-1-4226359

Hospital Locations

Patan Hospital: (Lalitpur, Nepal)
CIWEC Clinic Travel Medicine Center: (Kathmandu) +977-1-4424111
CIWEC offers higher standards of care for international travelers.
It is the nearest international standard clinic.

Lost Documents

Report lost passport/documents to local police immediately.
Obtain a police report.
Contact your embassy or consulate for temporary travel documents.
Have your embassy contact details ready.

Natural Disaster Protocols

Earthquakes

Nepal is in an active seismic zone.
If an earthquake occurs, remember "Drop, Cover, and Hold On."
Stay calm and follow instructions from local authorities.

Monsoon Season

During monsoon (June-August), be aware of localized flooding.
Landslides are possible, especially if planning road travel.
Stay informed through local news or your accommodation.

Online Language Resources

Babbel

A language learning app to learn essential Nepali phrases.

Duolingo

Offers basic Nepali lessons for travelers.

Pimsleur

Audio-based language courses for conversational Nepali.

Important Note

Always have the contact details for your country's embassy or consulate in Kathmandu.

Pre-Trip Checklist

Essential Preparations

-6 Months Before

Research Visa Requirements
Confirm specific visa requirements for your nationality. Apply if advance application is needed.
Book International Flights
Secure flights, especially during peak seasons (Oct-Nov, Mar-May), for better prices.
Research & Book Accommodation
Begin researching and booking unique or popular heritage properties that fill quickly.

-2 Months Before

Get Required Vaccinations
Complete all recommended vaccinations for Nepal.
Purchase Travel Insurance
Obtain comprehensive travel insurance covering medical, evacuation, cancellation, and lost baggage.
Inform Your Bank
Notify your bank and credit card companies of travel dates to avoid flagged activity.

Pre-Trip Checklist: Final Steps

-4 Weeks Before

Confirm all flight, hotel, and tour reservations. Make digital and physical copies of passport, visa, and insurance. Store separately. Begin planning your packing list. Download essential apps like Google Maps and a currency converter.

Week Before

Finalize packing, including a TESSAN Universal Travel Adapter and a LifeStraw water filter bottle. Notify trusted family/friends of your itinerary. Obtain some Nepalese Rupees for initial expenses. Fully charge all electronic devices.

Home Preparation

Secure your home. Stop mail and newspaper deliveries. Arrange for pet care and plant watering. Inform a trusted neighbor or friend of your travel plans.

Arrival Checklist

First Steps Upon Arrival

Clear immigration and complete visa on arrival forms/payment.
Retrieve checked luggage.
Exchange a small amount of currency or use an ATM for NPR.
Consider purchasing a local SIM card (Ncell or NTC) at the airport.

Orientation & Transport

Once settled, take a short walk around your neighborhood.
Familiarize yourself with nearby shops, eateries, and landmarks.
Use pre-booked transfer, negotiate a taxi fare, or book via Pathao/Tootle.
Ensure small denominations of NPR for taxi, water, and initial meals.

Departure Preparation

Souvenir Planning

Purchase souvenirs throughout your trip, not just last minute.
Research shipping options (DHL, FedEx) well in advance for large items.
Inquire about costs and customs procedures for shipping.
Check home country's customs regulations for imported goods.

VAT & Timing

Nepal does not have a VAT refund system for tourists.
For international flights, arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) at least 3 hours prior.
Account for potential traffic delays from Patan to the airport.
Peak hours traffic from Patan to TIA can be considerable.

Return Trip Ready

Confirm your return flight details with your airline.
Ensure all travel documents (passport, boarding pass) are in order.
Keep documents easily accessible.
Pack purchased items safely and consider luggage weight restrictions.

Practical Tips & Hacks