Head straight to Patan if you want the Kathmandu architecture vibes without the chaotic crowds. Spend three hours roaming the Durbar Square; the stone-carved Krishna Mandir is the main event. Duck into the Golden Temple (Hiranya Varna Mahavihar) to see the intricate metalwork. Book a combined city tour with Bhaktapur to compare the two ancient kingdoms easily. Grab a rooftop coffee overlooking the square for the best photos. Skip the aggressive street vendors and stick to the museum.
