Kathmandu — Where History Breathes

Kathmandu is more than a destination — it is a living archive of history, culture, and spirituality layered over centuries.

An Exclusive Experience with Steve McCurry

This workshop is designed as a rare opportunity to work closely with one of the world’s most iconic photographers.Each day is thoughtfully structured to balance time in the field with moments of reflection and learning. The group is limited and divided into three small teams, rotating throughout the day -ensuring that every participant spends dedicated, intimate time photographing alongside Steve McCurry.

This format allows for a level of access and engagement that is both personal and immersive.When not working directly with Steve, you will be guided by Better Moments’ senior photographers-handpicked professionals with extensive experience in both photography and teaching at the highest level.

  • Dedicated on-location sessions with Steve McCurry, morning and afternoon
  • Daily lunches in carefully selected local settings
  • Evenings at the hotel with private dinners
  • In-depth lectures and curated image reviews with Steve McCurry

This is more than a workshop. It is an opportunity to refine your vision, deepen your craft, and experience photography at its highest level-in the company of those who share your passion.

 

    Highlights

    • Work closely with Steve McCurry in small, focused groups
    • Gain access to unique and rarely experienced locations
    • Visit Nagi Gompa Nunnery in Shivapuri National Park, including participation in morning ceremonies
    • Document life at the Boudhanath begging camp
    • Immerse yourself in Kathmandu’s vibrant street life and sacred spaces

Expert STEVE MCCURRY

More about Steve McCurry

Join us for an unparalleled photography workshop in the enchanting land of Kathmandu, led by the world-renowned and award-winning photographer, Steve McCurry. Known for his iconic images, including the unforgettable “Afghan Girl,” Steve McCurry’s work captures the essence of human experience and the beauty of diverse cultures. Steve McCurry has a long-standing collaboration with Better Moments, a premier photography workshop organization founded by Christian Nørgaard. This partnership is built on a shared passion for photography, storytelling, and cultural immersion. Together, they provide unique opportunities for photographers to learn from the best in breathtaking locations around the world.

EXPAND WITH PASSION

On Location

  • Personal guidance and field teaching from Steve McCurry
  • Master composition: light, perspective, and storytelling
  • Work in diverse lighting conditions
  • Hands-on mentoring to refine your personal photographic style
  • Learn to approach and photograph people naturally and respectfully

In Classroom

  • Daily image reviews with Steve McCurry
  • Constructive feedback and storytelling refinement
  • Continuous support from Better Moments experts
  • Development of your unique visual language

ITINERARY

 

DAY 1: Welcome to Kathmandu: The Journey Begins

Arrival (recommended day before)
Welcome dinner and workshop introduction
Lecture by Steve McCurry on his work in Nepal

DAY 2: Boudhanath & Human Connection

Morning:
Boudhanath Stupa — rituals, movement, atmosphere

Afternoon:
Boudhanath begging camp — intimate portrait work

Lunch:
Daily group lunch at a carefully selected local restaurant

Evening:
Dinner at the hotel
Lecture by Steve McCurry + image review of the day’s work

DAY 3: Sacred Life

Morning:
Pashupatinath — ceremonies and human moments

Afternoon:
Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) — perspective and energy

Lunch:
Local restaurant

Evening:
Dinner at the hotel
Lecture and group critique with Steve McCurry

DAY 4: Timeless Cities

Morning:
Bhaktapur — craftsmanship, textures, daily life

Afternoon:
Patan Durbar Square — architecture and movement

Lunch:
Local restaurant

Evening:
Dinner at the hotel
Lecture + image review session

DAY 5: Spiritual Depth

Early Morning:
Nagi Gompa Nunnery (Shivapuri National Park)
Participation in the nuns’ morning ceremonies

Afternoon:
Portrait and environmental work in the surrounding area

Lunch:
Local restaurant

Evening:
Dinner at the hotel
Lecture + individual feedback with Steve McCurry

DAY 6: Hidden Kathmandu
Morning:
Changu Narayan — history and atmosphereAfternoon:
Pharping — spiritual environments and portrait opportunities
Street photography sessionsLunch:
Local restaurantEvening:
Dinner at the hotel
Lecture: editing and building a photographic series
DAY 7: Final Sessions

Morning:
Kathmandu Durbar Square + Budhanilkantha
Final shooting sessions

Afternoon:
Free shooting / refinement

Lunch:
Local restaurant

Evening:
Farewell dinner at the hotel
Final image review, presentations, and diploma ceremony

DAY 8: Home,sweet home

Morning photography before your departure

A Workshop Beyond the Obvious

This workshop is for those who seek authentic encounters and once-in-a-lifetime images. Whether you are an ambitious enthusiast or a seasoned professional, Steve McCurry will challenge and elevate your photographic vision. We go beyond simply visiting locations. We move through Kathmandu with intention, presence, and respect.
You will learn to:

– See beyond the surface

– Capture moments with emotional depth

– Create images that feel both authentic and timeless

Once a vital crossroads between India and Tibet, the Kathmandu Valley evolved into a center of art, craftsmanship, and devotion. Today, its UNESCO-listed Durbar Squares, ancient temples, and hidden courtyards reveal a world where past and present exist side by side — not as relics, but as living, breathing reality.

For the passionate photographers, Kathmandu offers something rare: a place where the visual, the human, and the spiritual naturally converge.This workshop is designed as an opportunity to engage deeply with people and places that few outsiders truly experience.

Get Inspiration

Catalogue Coming Soon

TRAVEL FACTS

Thanks for choosing Better Moments for your workshop.

Price

    • € 9,950 in shared double room.
    • € 10,700 in single room.
    • Groups sign-up a group of 4+ participants and receive a group discount.
    • All prices are per person.
    • INVITE A FRIEND
      Discover the delight of photography with our INVITE A FRIEND initiative! Bring along a friend or a loved one to our workshops and enjoy exclusive savings on the total rate, subject to availability!

 

Better Moments is a member of the Travel Guarantee Fund, your guarantee that traveling with Better Moments is a safe experiences.

Overview

QUICK GUIDE

GETTING THERE

Fly into Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu.

Most international travelers arrive via major hubs such as Doha, Dubai, Istanbul, or Delhi, with direct connections to Kathmandu.

VISA

Most travelers require a visa to enter Nepal.
Visas are typically available on arrival at Kathmandu Airport or can be obtained in advance as an e-visa.

We recommend checking the Nepalese embassy or official government website in your home country for the latest requirements.

WEATHER

Kathmandu has a mild and pleasant climate in March, making it one of the best times to visit.

Expect:

Temperatures between 15–25°C
Mostly dry conditions
Clear mornings and soft atmospheric light

Perfect conditions for photography and exploration.

LANGUAGE

The official language is Nepali, but English is widely spoken, especially in Kathmandu, hotels, restaurants, and among guides. Communication is generally easy and straightforward.

CURRENCY

The local currency is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR).

ATMs are widely available in Kathmandu
Credit cards are accepted in most hotels and larger restaurants
Cash is recommended for smaller purchases and local markets

QUICK GUIDE

Top things to experience in Kathmandu:

  • Boudhanath Stupa — One of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world, filled with movement, prayer, and atmosphere
  • Pashupatinath Temple — A deeply spiritual Hindu site with powerful human moments along the river
  • Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) — Iconic views over the city and a unique energy
  • Kathmandu Durbar Square — A historic center where daily life unfolds among ancient architecture
  • Bhaktapur — A preserved medieval city known for craftsmanship and timeless streets
  • Patan Durbar Square — Refined temples and vibrant local life
  • Nagi Gompa Nunnery — A peaceful monastery in the hills, offering rare access to morning rituals
  • Street Photography — Kathmandu itself is a constant visual experience, full of life, color, and spontaneity
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
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