travel tips kathmandu

2018 Primetime Emmy & James Beard Award Winner

16 Things to Know Before You Go to Kathmandu

Jul 19 2018.

Greetings, weather, and dumpling wisdom: here’s how to travel well in Nepal’s busy capital.

Nepal’s largest city and its capital, Kathmandu, attracts all kinds of people: students, travelers, job-seekers, and entrepreneurs. They arrive here to study, work or do business, but most never leave the city, which is now home to an estimated 3 million people. I, like many Nepalis, came to Kathmandu for education in the early 1990s and since then have been a resident, even an admirer. Despite its many flaws, I have grown attached to Kathmandu, whose deep-rooted traditional heritage sits comfortably alongside its modernity.

Kathmandu is also the first stop for international visitors who come to experience Nepal. The city and its people will welcome you with open arms—but it may also overwhelm you. Here’s how you can efficiently plan your trip.

First, make it out of the airport. Nepal’s only international airport, serving Kathmandu, is a picture of chaos. The airport receives more passengers than it can handle. Though most foreigners are eligible for an on-arrival visa, it’s better to apply in advance at an embassy, which could save some time when you arrive. Sometimes the ATMs in the airport don’t work, so bring a few hundred U.S. dollars with you to change into Nepali rupees. And don’t forget to fill out the immigration form before you land, so you can join the long lines sooner. Every minute helps you get out of the airport sooner.

[Read: How to navigate Kathmandu’s international airport]

Don’t expect to see the Himalayas. Eight of the world’s 10 tallest Himalayan peaks are in Nepal. You can see snow-capped mountains from Kathmandu, which lies in a bowl-shaped valley in central Nepal. But for the mesmerizing view of the towering Himalayas, you will have to visit either in autumn (October and November) or in spring (April and May): February to early April is the so-called burning season, when forest fires and smoke from “slash-and-burn” farming across Nepal’s southern plains create a haze in the valley. That said, even during Spring and Autumn dense smog can obscure the view. But if you’re lucky, you can see Dorje Lhakpa (6,966 meters/22,854 feet), Ganesh Himal (7,422 meters/24,350 feet) and even Manaslu, the world’s eighth-highest mountain. If you go some extra miles from Kathmandu—such as the resort towns of Dhulikhel and Nagarkot on the city’s outskirts—you may catch a glimpse of Mount Everest.  

A mask is a must. Kathmandu is ranked as one of the most polluted cities in the world, which is why it’s sometimes called Maskmandu. Dust from road-widening projects, post-quake reconstruction, emissions from brick factories near the city, and of course, the smoke-belching vehicles that stay on the roads thanks to lax enforcement of regulations, have all contributed to the city’s growing air pollution. The city’s traffic department and local authorities have tried to keep the air clean by banning vehicles older than 20 years. Last year, the authorities also declared the tourist district of Thamel and inner parts of the city a vehicle-free zone, meaning cars, trucks, and mini-buses were not allowed to drive. While these efforts have had some impact, the best protection against pollution is a mask. For example, CleanAirNepal.com offers Vogmask for US$25 to US$30. These internationally-certified masks come with built-in filters.

Learn to say hello. It never hurts to learn a few local words. You can say “ Malai Thaha Chhaina ” (I don’t know) to the ever-inquisitive Nepalis who may bombard you with questions about your country’s politics. Saying “ Dhanyabad ” (thank you) can work wonders. “ Namaste ” is the main greeting, and it’s even better if you also hold your palms together vertically in front of your chest—a gesture of respect. Other useful words include “ Bhai ” (young brother) or “ Dai ” (older brother) and “ Didi ” (older sister) or “ Baini ” (younger sister) because Nepalis use these words instead of names to address people, even strangers.

Get on Nepali time. Nepalis are not known for taking punctuality very seriously. Most appointments and meetings usually take place an hour after they are scheduled, which locals derisively call “Nepali time.” People may have legit excuses, such as traffic jams, but mostly it’s down to their relaxed attitude towards time. Showing up an hour late for an appointment is a norm, not an exception. This laid back attitude is reflected in services such as transportation, with buses and flights not departing—and arriving—on time, or government officials making you wait for hours. There’s no way around it. You’re welcome to be on time, and wait, of course.

Try Newari and Thakali food. Kathmandu has many options for food-minded visitors, but you shouldn’t miss the local stuff. The Newars, an ethnic community indigenous to the Kathmandu Valley, have a sophisticated and diverse cuisine. Try a plate of mouthwatering chhwela (spiced meat or chicken barbecue), kachila (a kind of spiced mincemeat tartare) and bara (a cake made of lentils and egg.) Most Newari speakeasies are tucked inside narrow, dark alleys in the old part of town, but a growing number of upscale restaurants now include Newari delicacies on their menus. I am a fan , and I would recommend Newa Lahana in Kirtipur and Honacha in Patan’s Durbar Square. The Thakalis, whose name derives from Thak Khola, a valley in the Annapurna region, are a minority ethnic group that have mastered the art of the Nepali staple, daal bhat (rice and lentils), by transforming it into a delicious, elaborate Thali-style meal with heavy doses of sautéed vegetables, meat or fish, rice, pulses, curry, pickles, and even ghee. There are dozens of restaurants serving Thakali food, such as Tukche . (Here’s a list of Thakali restaurants in Kathmandu.)

Discover Jhamel, the other Thamel . Most visitors to Kathmandu end up in Thamel , a tourist district made famous by the hippies who started coming to the city in the 1960s and 70s. Central and convenient, it caters to tourists and travelers, with stores for trekking gear and souvenirs, currency exchanges, European-style bakeries, and bars—everything an international visitor could need. But over the years, Thamel has become crowded and congested, and therefore, unappealing. Some smart entrepreneurs have established an alternative to Thamel: Jhamel. In the last few years, Jhamsikhel, in the Lalitpur district south of Kathmandu, has served expats and visitors a better version of Thamel: less crowded, good food, and a more pleasant environment. Its streets are lined with high-end restaurants, bars, and groceries.

[Take a walking tour of Thamel]

Choose your momos wisely. When Tibetan refugees arrived in Nepal in the 1960s and 70s, they brought with them a special treat—recipes for steaming, succulent momos , or dumplings . Momos are believed to have originated in the ancient Chinese city of Xi’an, but the humble snack, after crossing the mighty Himalayas on its journey to Nepal, has gone through multiple innovations over the decades. The original momos were made with yak meat, but now they have a larger range of fillings and are somewhat smaller than the original version. In Nepal, round or half-moon shapes of wheat-flour dough are stuffed with fillings of ground chicken, mutton, or buffalo meat (called “buff” here) and vegetables. Momos are also popular in northeastern India and Bhutan, but Nepalis are perhaps its most faithful consumers; a group of young Nepalis has even produced a video about their love of momos. Momos are so popular in Kathmandu that almost every restaurant serves them. Every Nepali has a favorite momo haunt, and you will have to choose carefully to get the best fix. (My personal momo favorite is Bakery Cafe .) The city also regularly hosts momo festivals, called Momo Mania .

[Momos: the best dumplings in the world]

Come to celebrate. Many areas of Kathmandu are, rightly, described as living heritage sites, and festivals are a big part of life for Kathmandu’s indigenous Newar community. During Rato Machchhindranath Jatra, or the chariot festival (in spring and end of summer), celebrants haul a huge wood-and-bamboo chariot containing an idol of the deity Rato Machchhindranath (believed to be the god of harvest and rain) through the streets of Patan to welcome the rainy season. Bisket Jatra, held in mid-April celebrates the Nepali New Year and the spring season. Time your visit to one of these festivals to witness the cultures and traditions that have endured for centuries. The Hindu festival of Holi, the rice-planting festival during monsoon, and the Dashain festival in the autumn are also windows into Nepali culture. (Here’s a comprehensive list  of major festivals celebrated in Kathmandu Valley.)

Avoid the monsoon , mostly. One of my colleagues once said that monsoon was the worst season in Kathmandu. She had a point: From late May to early September, Kathmandu gets huge amounts of rainfall. During monsoon, roads are waterlogged because they lack adequate sewage systems, vehicles splash muddy water on you, and even your umbrella may be no match for the downpour. The running joke every monsoon in Kathmandu is that you can row a boat in its flooded streets. But the season also has its share of delights: the rain dripping off the eaves of your guesthouse or hotel, the emerald-green vista that emerges after the rain, and the occasional rainbow.

Embrace the one-day weekend . Nepalis observe a one-day weekend, on Saturdays. Sunday is a working day: Offices (except foreign missions and international NGOs), schools, and markets remain open. This convention began by decree in the 1930s during the Rana dynasty (the autocratic rulers who presided over Nepal from 1846 until a popular revolt dislodged them in 1951) and has endured, almost uninterrupted. In the mid-2000s, the government introduced a two-day weekend (Friday and Saturday) for government officials in the Kathmandu Valley, but it was withdrawn a year later.

Appreciate the art. There are murals on the walls of major intersections, private houses, and public buildings — the result of a campaign launched in 2013 by Kolor Kathmandu, which has given the city a much-needed facelift. After the 2015 earthquake , murals became a vehicle to spread messages of hope. Kathmandu has a vibrant art scene, with big galleries such as the Siddhartha Art Gallery and Nepal Art Council Gallery frequently holding exhibitions. Also check out the Taragaon Museum , a former hostel with exhibits focusing on Nepali culture and heritage.

Watch out for strikes and bandhs . Nepal used to be known as a land of bandhs—general strikes that shut down markets, schools, factories, and offices. Though most major political parties have vowed not to organize nationwide shutdowns, smaller groups (political parties or even trade unions) still resort to them to pressure the government, perhaps by using them to try to secure the release of jailed colleagues or to express displeasure with India’s interference in Nepal’s affairs. Keep up with strike announcements by monitoring social media. Though most print newspapers don’t publish calls for general strikes on their pages, digital outlets might, and it’s worth checking if there any bandhs planned during your visit.

See the other Durbar Squares. The Kathmandu Valley is home to three Durbar (royal palace) Squares—in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan—with centuries-old palaces listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Kathmandu’s Durbar Square may be the best-known, but it was badly damaged by the earthquake and many of its monuments and temples are still awaiting reconstruction. Local communities in Bhaktapur and Patan, however, steered the reconstruction of their Durbar Squares, presenting a model for faster recovery . Unlike Kathmandu’s, they are well-maintained, and also less crowded. Perhaps most importantly, they have convenient public toilets, which are hard to find around Kathmandu’s Durbar Square.

[Read: Here’s how to spend a day in Patan]

Travel wisely. Getting around Kathmandu can be daunting. The city doesn’t have an efficient mass-transit system, and to the uninitiated, the traffic looks chaotic: drivers don’t follow traffic rules, buses stop in the middle of the road, and bus passengers are crammed into every spare inch. There aren’t too many choices: You will have to hop onto an overcrowded minibus or flag an overcharging taxi. If you do the latter, you should insist that the driver run the meter, and if they driver refuse, don’t be afraid to haggle. For locals, the cabbies normally charge 100 rupees per kilometer, but they may try to bump that up for foreigners. Once you know the distance, try to negotiate the fare. Alternatively, there is Tootle , a bike-sharing app that matches you with motorbike drivers, or Sarathi , a cab-sharing company. Sajha Yatayat — a cooperative that operates buses in the city—offers decent public transport.

Go hiking (or cycling) in the hills. Kathmandu is not just historic squares and ancient monuments. To take in a view of the valley, you have to trek through or cycle along the hills. There are four big hills around Kathmandu: Phulchoki, Shivapuri, Nagarjun, and Champadevi. Hike the trail from Sundarijal to Chisapani, in the northeastern edge of the valley; on a clear day, you can see the Langtang mountain range, and you may see birds in the woods. Here’s a comprehensive list of hiking trails in Kathmandu. If you love to run, try the Stupa to Stupa Marathon , a 54-kilometer trail race. For mountain biking, check out Social Tours .

Ready to explore Kathmandu? Let us help.

— How to prepare for the chaos at Kathmandu’s international airport 

— Eat, drink, explore: the ultimate walking tour of Thamel

— History of Kathmandu Valley, explained in 11 dishes

— Here’s how to escape from Kathmandu—inside Kathmandu

— Need internet? Getting online is easy in Nepal’s capital

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Your Trip to Kathmandu: The Complete Guide

Elen Turner

Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is a culturally and historically dense city. It combines ancient Hindu and Buddhist temples, local Newari architecture, and gorgeous mountain views (on a clear day) with modern urban sprawl, gridlocked traffic, and, unfortunately, some of the worst pollution in Asia.

Kathmandu’s a place that travelers either love or hate, with most coming down on the love side, after scratching beneath the surface. While many visitors to Nepal come for the mountains and hang around in Kathmandu just long enough to make plans for trekking, rafting, or jungle sightseeing, there’s a lot to explore in Kathmandu itself. Temples, stupas, monasteries, boutique accommodation at great prices, diverse Himalayan food, handicraft shopping, and green farmland, and hiking trails on the city’s edge, here are some of the best experiences you can have in Kathmandu.

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit : March through May and October through November are peak tourist seasons in Nepal. The winter is also pleasant because although it’s a bit cold, the mountain views can be good. Avoid the monsoon months of May to mid-September.

Language : Nepali and Newari

Currency : Nepali rupees

Getting Around : Taxis or local buses

Know Before You Go : Kathmandu is very polluted and dusty. It’s essential to bring (or buy soon after arrival) a face mask to filter out the worst of it.

Things to Do

The Hindu temples, Buddhist stupas, and monasteries, and medieval royal squares (Durbar Squares) should be the priority for sightseeing in Kathmandu. Modern-day Kathmandu is comprised of (at least) three ancient kingdoms: Kathmandu, Patan (also called Lalitpur), and Bhaktapur. While urban development connects them all now and they’re all considered part of broader Kathmandu city, they each have different histories and traditions.

• Kathmandu Durbar Square (also called Basantapur Durbar Square) is the center of old Kathmandu, with the Hanuman Dhoka Palace Complex, the center of old royal Kathmandu (Nepal became a republic in 2008).
• Old Patan, south of central Kathmandu, contains the well-preserved Patan Durbar Square and the excellent Patan Museum, as well as other unmissable temples like the Golden Temple (Hiranya Varna Mahabihar) and the Banglamukhi Temple.
• Bhaktapur has been called a living museum, because of the rich craft traditions that can be seen on display here. Although the Durbar Square was severely damaged in the earthquake of 2015, the spectacular, five-story Nayatapola Temple was unharmed.
• Boudhanath is the holiest Tibetan Buddhist stupa outside of Tibet and a significant pilgrimage site. The Boudha area is Kathmandu's Tibetan hub.
• Swayambhunath Temple, atop a hill just west of central Kathmandu, is colloquially known as the monkey temple (you'll find out why!) Climb the steps for a sweeping view of the city.

Discover more things to see and do in Kathmandu with our full-length articles on Pashupatinath Temple and the Top 10 Things to Do in Kathmandu .

Where to Eat and Drink

Most Nepalis will tell you that their favorite food—in fact, the food that they eat multiple times a day—is dal bhat. Although this translates to lentil curry and rice, a full dal bhat meal is much more than this, with various vegetable and meat curries, a side salad, pickles, and papad. There are many places around Kathmandu to get a good dal bhat meal, from simple places frequented by locals to the more upmarket restaurants.

Other de facto Nepali favorites are momos (steamed or fried dumplings) and thukpa (noodle soup). While these dishes are Tibetan, Kathmandu is not only home to many Tibetans, it also has several Nepali ethnic groups who originated in Tibet centuries ago. So, Tibetan foods are a well-loved staple of Nepali cuisine, although most Nepalis will eat them as a snack rather than a main meal.

Newari cuisine is unique to Kathmandu. The ethnic Newars are the ‘original’ inhabitants of Kathmandu, and they retain a distinct culture, language, and cuisine that is different from ‘mainstream’ Nepali. Newari cuisine tends to be very spicy, and uses a lot of meat and dried, beaten rice. Patan and Bhaktapur are good places to find authentic Newari cuisine

Where to Stay

Kathmandu’s main tourist hub is Thamel, in the central city. There’s a massive range of accommodation options here, from ultra-budget to boutique and more high-end. It’s a convenient place to stay as there are many shops, restaurants, and tour companies in the area, but it can also get a bit noisy. If you want a quieter or less intensely touristy experience, Patan offers some charming boutique guesthouses in renovated Newari townhouses, Boudha is close to the Tibetan action, and Budhanilkanatha is further from the city but on the edge of the Shivapuri National Park.

Getting There

Almost all visitors to Kathmandu will arrive by air to the Tribhuvan International Airport, which is Nepal’s only major international airport at present. Tribhuvan is a bit of a mess , with long waits to get a visa and to claim baggage, and few eating or shopping facilities. It’s just a hurdle that travelers have to grin and bear.

Some travelers get to Kathmandu by coming overland from India , especially on long-distance buses from Delhi. But, this is a long and uncomfortable option, and only really advisable as a last resort.

Culture and Customs

Arriving in Kathmandu can be a bit daunting for travelers who were imagining a bucolic Himalayan paradise. Kathmandu is busy and dirty, but it’s also pretty safe, with a relatively low crime rate and very little crime directed at travelers, so there’s no need to be alarmed. If you take reasonable precautions such as not walking around alone after dark in quiet areas, and taking care of your belongings, there’s no need to feel unsafe in Kathmandu.

Kathmandu is a primarily Hindu city, with a sizeable Buddhist minority. Most Nepalis will dress quite conservatively, especially older people. You’ll likely see younger men wearing shorts, and younger women wearing tight jeans, knee-length skirts, and sleeveless tops. But, it’s better to err on the side of modesty, especially when visiting religious sites. Wearing long pants and short-sleeve tops that cover the chest (women) is practical in Kathmandu’s generally hot climate, and culturally respectful.

Tipping is appreciated at restaurants but not always necessary. A service charge is added to bills, but you can never know how much of this is going to the server, so rounding up the bill is a good idea. If hiring a guide, it’s customary to tip him (he’ll almost always be a man!) around 10 percent of the cost of the tour. Give this directly to him, not to the tour operator, so you can be sure he receives it.

Non-Hindus are generally welcome at most Hindu sites, with some exceptions. Non-Hindus (which in practice means anyone who doesn’t look South Asian) aren’t allowed in the inner areas of the holy Pashupatinath Temple, or inside the Krishna Mandir at Patan Durbar Square. It should also go without saying, but when visiting Pashupatinath, where cremations are continuously held, respect the privacy of mourners. Photographing funerals and funeral pyres is ethically dubious, so think twice about whether you need that photo.

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©Harri Jarvelainen Photography/Getty Images

For many, stepping off a plane into Kathmandu is a pupil-dilating experience, a riot of sights, sounds and smells that can quickly lead to sensory overload. Whether you’re barrelling through the traffic-jammed alleyways of the old town in a rickshaw, marvelling at the medieval temples or dodging trekking touts in the backpacker district of Thamel, Kathmandu can be an intoxicating, amazing and exhausting place.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Hanuman Dhoka

Kathmandu's royal palace, known as the Hanuman Dhoka, was originally founded during the Licchavi period (4th to 8th centuries AD), but the compound was…

The long, rectangular courtyard of the Itum Bahal is the largest bahal (Buddhist monastery courtyard) in the old town and remains a haven of tranquillity…

Garden of Dreams

The beautifully restored Swapna Bagaicha (Garden of Dreams) remains one of the most serene and beautiful enclaves in Kathmandu. It's two minutes' walk and…

From dawn until dusk the six-spoked junction of Asan Tole is jammed with vegetable and spice vendors selling everything from yak tails to dried fish. It’s…

Indra Chowk

The busy street of Makhan Tole spills into Indra Chowk, the courtyard named after the ancient Vedic deity, Indra. Locals crowd around the square’s…

Durbar Square

Kathmandu’s Durbar Sq was where the city’s kings were once crowned and legitimised, and from where they ruled (durbar means palace). As such, the square…

Nasal Chowk

From the entrance gate of the Hanuman Dhoka palace you immediately enter its most famous chowk. Nasal Chowk was used for coronations, a practice that…

Seto Machhendranath Temple (Jan Bahal)

Southwest of Asan Tole at the junction known as Kel Tole, this temple attracts both Buddhists and Hindus – Buddhists consider Seto (White) Machhendranath…

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A Guide to Kathmandu: Best Things to Do in the Himalayan Capital

Kathmandu is one of my favourite cities in Asia. There is something so intoxicatingly beautiful about the city, that I easily spent a lot of time there during my three month trip to Nepal. While I had plenty of people warn me about it being polluted, chaotic, noisy and congested, there’s so much more to Kathmandu if you take your time to explore it.

The streets are a patchwork of colours, sounds and aromas that mean each time you walk down the same street (which is inevitable) you’ll notice something different. The tourist neighbourhood, and almost a microcity in its own right,  Thamel , has enough cafes, bars and shops to keep you occupied for days, or even weeks in my case. But it’s also worth exploring beyond Thamel and diving into historical parts of the city like Patan and Bhaktapur.

While many tourists linger only for a short time, usually only long enough to organise a trek and gather supplies, it’s worth spending time to get to know this beautiful city. Here’s my  guide to Kathmandu  based on my time spent in Nepal. You’ll find all you need to know, including the best restaurants to eat, the best things to do in Kathmandu and where you should stay.

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links which means I get a commission if you buy a product through my link at no extra cost to you. By doing so, I can keep this blog going and continue to create helpful guides for you. Read more:  Privacy Policy

About Kathmandu

Kathmandu is the capital city of Nepal. Located in the Kathmandu Valley surrounded by the Himalayas, the sprawling city sits at an altitude of almost 1400m. It has a long history having been founded back in 723 by Raja Gunakamadeva. It was the royal capital of the Kingdom of Nepal, with plenty of historical temples, palaces and gardens still intact today.

The city is the gateway to the Himalayas, with many trekking and climbing expeditions and hiking adventures beginning and ending in the city. Tourism is a huge part of the local economy, drawing visitors for hiking, climbing, religious pilgrimage and cultural trips.

Kathmandu has a number of UNESCO World heritage Sites, including Durbar Square. The earthquake in 2015 has left a devastating scar on many of these old buildings, with ongoing restoration to try and restore some of it to their original glory.

Helpful travel tips for Kathmandu

• Be prepared for  chaotic traffic and  air pollution in Kathmandu.
• Get your  Kathmandu Durbar Square ticket extended  beyond 24 hours. You can do this by going to the tourist office inside the square, behind the small souvenir market, if you provide a passport photo along with your passport they will give you a pass which lasts for as long as your visa for no extra cost. The tickets for both Patan and Bhaktapur can also be extended for as long as you request when purchasing.
• Be prepared to  bargain  for things but not too hard. Nepalis will always inflate the price for tourists, but not quite as much as some other Asian countries.
• 10% service charge and 13% VAT tax  will often be added to food bills and some services (menus will always say whether these taxes are applicable or already included).
• Shops  are generally open mid-morning until 8 or 9pm, it’s not a ‘city that never sleeps’ type of a place, although you will find some bars in Thamel open late.
• Saturday  is Nepal’s ‘Sunday’ and many shops, some restaurants and all official offices will be closed.
• The trekking permit office ( for TIMS and National Park fees) is inside the  Nepal Tourism Board  near Ratna Park (their Thamel office is permanently closed) and they’re open every day, including Saturdays and public holidays.

Impact of the tourism industry

At first glance, you could easily brush Kathmandu off as being overly touristy and believe me, that was my first impression. There are men standing on each corner who approach you for, “Trekking?” or to sell you tiger balm or wooden flutes or, “Hash, weed, you want to smoke something?”.

However, when you can find hidden stupas in courtyards, trendy rooftop cafes to hang out in and even look at yak wool scarves for sale with just a friendly “Namaste” from the shop owner, I’m not going to complain. It’s less intense and less likely to make you cringe than Asia’s other backpacker neighbourhoods.

But it is a city that has been seeing foreign tourists for decades now, which brings a lot of changes to the local culture and streetscape. For a place that had just one hotel in the early 1960s, it has capitalised on tourism and within just a short walk around  Thamel  you’ll see that plenty of Nepalis rely on the industry for their livelihood.

However, heading south from Thamel, it doesn’t take long before you get transported to somewhere completely different (albeit with the same level of chaotic traffic). The market streets that feed into Durbar Square offer an insight into the everyday life of Nepalis, with shops selling knock off Calvin Klein jeans and the latest fashion, fresh fruit, spices, rice and bolts of fabric ready to be made into whatever you like by the many tailors you can see sitting behind old Singer machines.  

What I’m trying to say here is that you should give the city a chance. Don’t pass it off as being another tourist oriented Asian metropolis, because there is still plenty of culture to immerse yourself in if you head beyond the streets of Thamel.

Read next: Responsible Travel Guide to Nepal

When is the best time to visit Kathmandu

Nepal has two main tourist seasons: Spring (March-April) and Autumn (October-November) . This is when the weather is at its best, with moderate temperatures, less humidity and clearer skies. Autumn is slightly more popular than Spring, with more trekkers and travellers around and the highest prices.

Summer brings the monsoon and the weather can be pretty terrible for sightseeing and some of the roads and trekking trails will be closed.

Winter is a nice alternative time to visit, however, many of the trekking areas are off limits due to snow fall.

How to get around Kathmandu

The public bus network can be very confusing and slow to navigate as a foreigner. While Nepalis are extremely friendly and willing to help you out, it’s usually easier to simply jump in a taxi. The only exceptions for this is if you want to go to Patan and Bhaktapur. These buses leave frequently from Ratna Park, just on the outskirts of Thamel and the price is very cheap (although confirm the ticket price before jumping on!).

Walking is otherwise a good idea to get around Kathmandu. It’s surprisingly walkable, although you will have to be prepared for the crazy traffic and pollution. I happily walked around from Thamel to most of the temples and out to the Tourist Office for my trekking permit.

Getting in and out of Kathmandu

Nepal international airport.

The main airport in Kathmandu is the Tribhuvan International Airport, just a few kilometres outside of the city centre. This is where most international and domestic flights take off and land. Despite the volume of flights, it’s not an overly modern airport and you’ll have to allow some patience and take your own initiative to work everything out.

Tourist buses to Pokhara

From Thamel, the  tourist buses to Pokhara  leave from Sorhakhutte on the edge of Thamel. There are anywhere between 15-30 buses running every day at 7am in high season and the journey takes around 8 hours. Almost every second shop, cafe, agency or hotel can book a ticket for you in advance.

Best things to do in Kathmandu

There’s plenty of things to do in Kathmandu. While cafe hopping and eating your way through all the restaurants in Thamel is a popular pastime, it’s worth exploring the ancient Durbar Square and stupas around the city as well.

Durbar Square

While each of the old kingdoms, Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur, have their own Durbar Square, the one in Kathmandu is obviously the most popular to visit. It’s an incredible place to step back in time and admire some traditional architecture.

Unfortunately, Durbar Square is quite devastating to visit since the earthquake in 2015. Many of the original buildings crumbled and only a few remain. The ongoing construction effort seems like it will continue for years to come with just a few men chipping away at repairs by hand. However, the old royal square is still the cultural heart of the city and with an unlimited pass for the duration of my visa, I was able to head down there to people watch the afternoon away many times over. 

From sadhus posing for photos, to men selling fairy floss, to children chasing pigeons and young lovers sitting on the steps of the old buildings, it’s not a waste of  1000 rupees (AUD$12) . Although the steep entrance fees for many temples and squares in the sprawling city begs the question about where the money actually goes, but that’s another story. 

Swayambhunath Stupa

One of the most beloved attractions of the city,  Swayambhunath Stupa  is located just west of Thamel on a hilltop overlooking the sprawled city. It’s best known as ‘monkey temple’ and is one of the most popular places to spend the last hours of the day before the sun sets.

The view of Kathmandu below gives a good perspective of just how large the city really is and, on a clear evening, even a glimpse of the snow capped peaks that lie beyond the Kathmandu Valley.

Boudhanath Stupa

Boudhanath Stupa is one of the largest stupas in Asia and the centre of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. It’s not overly close to Thamel, requiring a nearly 20-minute drive east of the centre. The large dome is encircled with small shops selling thangka paintings and rooftop cafes with an impressive view looking down on the prayer flags flapping in the wind and the selfie-taking tourists. 

Pashupatinath Temple

Some of the most important religious sites in Asia are located in Kathmandu, including  Pashupatinath Temple . It’s a sacred Hindu site on the Bagmati River and one of the four most important temples for followers of Lord Shiva.

It is a large complex, and although non-Hindus are not permitted to enter the main temple, there are plenty of spaces to explore including a viewing platform over the area. There is also a small burning ghat by the water, where like in Varanasi, bodies can be seen being cremated in the open air around the clock.

Patan, or Lalitpur as it’s known today, is a large city with its own historic Durbar Square at its centre. It seems almost a continuation of Kathmandu but is actually a distinct city in itself. It has small temples and stupas hidden amongst its alleyways and quieter streets.

It has also become a favourite place for diplomats and expats to call home and has many cafes and shops to explore. It’s home to some of the best food of the  Newari people , one of the major ethnic groups of the Kathmandu Valley.

As the city is only a 20 minute taxi ride from Thamel or half an hour in a bus from Ratna Park, many people explore Patan in a day before heading back to Thamel. However, I spent a couple of nights there exploring the small temples and skinny streets and sampling a lot of the Newari dishes, which offers a nice break from Thamel.

I also took myself to Bhaktapur for a few days to get out of the chaos of Kathmandu and it was one of my favourite places I visited in Nepal. The  ancient royal city  is a quiet place and gives perhaps the best idea of what the whole of the Kathmandu Valley would have looked like centuries ago. The central part of the city is well preserved in the old architecture with cobble stone streets and intricately carved details in the wooden windows and doors.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square is a beautiful, large courtyard where older generations can be seen sitting on the steps talking and watching the world go by. It’s also known for its handicrafts, especially pottery, which can be seen drying out in the sun in what has become known as pottery square. It’s a place that makes you feel like you have been transported back in time and, with no traffic in the old city, it’s a relaxing getaway from the chaos of Thamel. 

It’s just an hour in the local buses that leave frequently throughout the day near Ratna Park in Kathmandu. It’s worth spending at least a night though, as once it gets closer to sunset and the tourists have all gone, it’s a peaceful small town and I almost had the square to myself.

Best places to stay in Kathmandu

There are literally hundreds of Kathmandu accommodation options. From backpacker hostels to fancy upmarket hotels, you’ll definitely find something to suit your budget. Here are a few recommendations:

Yog Hostel || For the budget backpacker, this hostel gets rave reviews. From as little as 400 rupees or $5 per night for a dorm room, it’s exceptional value. Right in Thamel, they have a beautiful rooftop area perfect for chilling out and meeting new friends. Book here .

Newa Home || This is a small family-run hotel that is a great budget option. It is run by a very lovely man and so carefully decorated in traditional Nepali style. The owner cannot do enough for you, constantly offering cups of tea and food and anything you may need. It’s a very comfortable place and for 1300 rupees or AUD$15 for a private room (shared bathroom), it’s exceptional value.  Book here .

Mount Annapurna Guest House || Another budget guesthouse, this place is right in the heart of Thamel and run by friendly staff. They have single and double rooms with private bathrooms starting from 1100 rupees per night (AU$13). Book here .

Sanu House (Patan) || This place is more like a homestay and was such a beautiful experience. It’s just outside of the main historic centre but is easily walkable. The family were so welcoming and friendly. They have private rooms and offer home-cooked meals for just an extra 150-200 rupees, which are 100% worth it.  Book here .

Shiva Guest House (Bhaktapur) || You can’t get a better location in Bhaktapur. It’s right inside Durbar Square and above a popular restaurant. It was a great place to stay for the price and had a beautiful view of the square from the few private rooms that they have.  Book here .

Best places to eat in Kathmandu

I will be raving about the food in Kathmandu for some time to come. You can eat so well for so little in this city. From the best falafels I’ve ever had to healthy smoothie bowls to local dal bhat (the meal that majority of Nepalis eat twice a day and consists of rice, dahl and curry), the options are endless. These are my top picks:

OR2K Restaurant || Probably one of the best restaurants in Nepal, the Israeli restaurant also has a branch in Pokhara. Offering breakfast, lunch and dinner, from smoothie bowls and pancakes to falafels and grazing platters and pasta, it has a great menu that can alter almost anything to suit vegans and gluten-free eaters. They make buckwheat pancakes and roti and have soy and coconut milk and even date syrup to replace honey. Highly recommend: falafels and smoothie bowls.

French Bakery || By far the closest thing you’ll find to a Melbourne cafe, the French Bakery is owned by a local guy who worked in Australia as a chef and baker. He has delicious cakes which walk out the door, including gluten free and vegan options. The menu has tea and coffee, burgers, pastas and snacks like nachos, and fresh bread and cookies are also for sale. Highly recommend: gluten free brownie.

Fusion Cafe || In my opinion, one of the best dal bhats you’ll find in Thamel and all at reasonable tourist prices. They also have Tibetan favourites like momos and thenthuk soup, served by friendly staff.

Loving Heart || The first all vegan restaurant in Kathmandu that also has gluten free options. They are open for breakfast through to dinner and even offer delicious desserts. Highly recommend: Spinach ragi crepe and vegan ice cream (obviously not together though).

Green Home Cafe || A tiny hole in the wall place that doesn’t look that appealing from the exterior and requires a climb up some rickety stairs. But the two Indian brothers running this place are lovely and it’s one of the cheapest places you’ll find in Thamel for local food.

Yangling Tibetan Restaurant || A popular place to go for Tibetan food and reasonable prices, makes this spot busy most nights that they’re open. Highly recommend: fried rice.

Newari Kitchen (Patan) || A popular place in Patan that is known for some of the best Newari food and is the perfect place to try some. The set plates are the best value as they can be refilled like dal bhat and give a sampling of multiple dishes. It’s a bit more upmarket, with tourist prices.

Hiring and purchasing trekking supplies

As the gateway to the Himalayas and many of the best trekking routes in the world, Kathmandu is perfectly capable of servicing your every need prior to any trek. Many shops sell up to date trekking maps, knock off hiking and climbing gear and most also rent sleeping bags, down jackets and walking poles. A few recommendations if you’re looking to purchase or hire gear:

• Shona’s Alpine Rentals is a very reputable shop for hiring gear. While the staff aren’t the friendliest, they’re straight to the point and you get decent gear for a fair price. I hired a good down sleeping bag from them a couple of times for 120 rupees per day (AUD$1.50). You can find them on Amrit Marg in Thamel.
• Kala Patthar Trekking Store is another recommended hiring shop. This little place in a corner in Thamel is packed full of gear and at a cheaper price. I paid 90 rupees per day for a brand new -20 degree down sleeping bag for a trek. It’s a bit weird being taken up to their shady storeroom, but the guys do a roaring trade with plenty of trekkers.
• Many of these random trekking shops in Thamel will be selling knock off gear, no matter what they try and tell you. In saying that, some of it isn’t too bad quality but it can be hit and miss.
• If you want to purchase proper brand gear, North Face, Marmot, Rab and Black Diamond have official stores all clustered together on Tridevi Sadak just outside of Thamel.
• You can purchase trekking maps and national park maps from virtually any bookstore or gear shop in Thamel. They’re all relatively similar, selling the same but Pilgrims Book House in Thamel is a traditional backpacker favourite.

There are also a few good minimarts and one large supermarket in Thamel called  Shop Rite , which are perfect for picking up snacks.

You could effectively come to Nepal with nothing and pick up everything you needed for a two week trek in the mountains just in Thamel. It’s this aspect that gives it an infectious buzz and will have you convinced you need to go trekking even if you had no prior desire to do so.

Exploring more of Nepal?

• What You Need to Know About Trekking in Nepal

10 Essential Tips for Trekking in Nepal

How to complete the gokyo lakes trek from salleri.

• A Guide to the Langtang Valley Trek
• How to Complete the Khopra Ridge Trek
• A Guide to the Jomsom to Muktinath Trek in the Mustang Region

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How to complete the Khopra Ridge Trek in Nepal

A Guide to the Jomsom to Muktinath Trek in Nepal

[…] Park wasn’t even on my radar for trekking in Nepal. However, within days of arriving in Kathmandu, I decided it would be the best introduction to hiking in the Himalayas and I wasn’t […]

[…] you’re travelling at the start of the trekking seasons, it’s a good idea to ask in Kathmandu about trail conditions before you set off. When I did the trek at the end of March, some of the […]

[…] hired a sleeping bag from Kala Patthar trekking gear, a tiny shop in a corner in Thamel, Kathmandu. I paid 90 rupees per day for a brand new -20deg down sleeping bag, which was probably the […]

[…] Read next: A Guide to Kathmandu: Best Things to Do in the Himalayan Capital […]

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A Little Culture… Exploring Kathmandu’s Stupas, Temples, and Culture

Last updated on January 26, 2024 by Shannon

The early morning light glinted off buildings of Kathmandu as our plane circled the Kathmandu Valley waiting to land. After two months exploring India,

I moved into Nepal ( full Nepal travel guide here ) to spend nine weeks taking a much slower pace to life and travels as I explored everything there is do in Kathmandu, in the wider Kathmandu Valley, and further afield in Chitwan National Park , Pokhara , and other areas.

In India, I met my cousin in Mumbai and then rode the trains north for two months. It was a lot of energy to move that fast and far. But, oh the sites we saw.

India is a gorgeous country and Nepal—in the foothills of the Himalayas—has continued that theme, with a fair few incredible things to do across Nepal . A big part of my travels through Nepal is volunteering at a monastery in the Kathmandu Valley.

Beyond that, I used my free weekends to explore everything Kathmandu has to offer—the best things to do, see, and eat.

Table of Contents

What to Expect in Kathmandu

Before volunteering, the organization helped me tour the major sites and learn the landscape of the city. Holy smokes there is a lot of history in Kathmandu! There are truly so many things to do and sights to visit that even my six weeks of weekends exploring haven’t been enough.

Of note though: Spend time in Kathmandu and you will become nonchalant about the sheer craziness of traffic in South Asia. When I landed in Bangkok all of those months ago, the chaos and noise overwhelmed me—I understood so little of how it flowed.

Now, however, there are rules to the chaos and underlying codes of conduct that were once so foreign, and now are fairly instinctive.

My volunteer organization had arranged a taxi to whisk me into Thamel, the backpacker area of Kathmandu and the place from which I began learning this new country and exploring the city. 

Because my cousin and I paid for an all-inclusive volunteer program , the hotel and accommodations for four weeks were mostly covered, except for our weekend excursions, when we tested out the best hotels in Kathmandu and beyond to find comfortable and convenient places to stay.

Even better, as I spent the days exploring the squares and stupas of Nepal, I also spent four days in a Nepali language bootcamp. These lessons gave me a crash course in the most basic verbs and commands that I would need when working at the monastery and navigating the country.

They also came in handy entertaining the shopkeepers and bargaining for a discount!

Our first three days were jam packed and organized around our two-hour Nepali lessons. After morning lessons, we visited the major tourist spots in Kathmandu. One of the first things I loved about Nepal is the pace.

Nepal shares some cultural nuances with its southern neighbor, India, but without the intensity. The Nepali people are fun and friendly, and each shop was delighted to help me practice my new Nepali. The only comparison I can think of is the difference between Laos and Vietnam .

One of the best bonuses is the casual acceptance of tourism. India is huge, and there are some cities off the beaten path that rarely see tourism. This isn’t the case for Nepal.

Because of the number of travelers hiking the Annapurna Circuit and Everest, foreigners are often given no more than a passing glance.

In India, that wasn’t the case. From Gandhi’s ashram to the Taj Mahal , men and women stared, touched, and followed me. Nepal is a welcome change of pace for any traveler who is also arriving from India!

Each section of town has a different vibe, so that’s the first thing you should know when exploring and picking a place to stay. While many backpackers stay in Thamel (and this is where I passed much of my time since our volunteer office was located in Thamel), other travelers choose to stay deeper in the heart of Kathmandu, where the major historic sites are within walking distance.

Pick out accommodation on Booking.com.

This is the only booking platform I use because it rewards you for loyalty, and I regularly scored free breakfasts and 15% off my hotels in Nepal.

A Brief History of Kathmandu

You should always know a bit about your destination before traveling. Here’s what you need to know about Kathmandu before setting out to see and do all the things the city offers.

Prehistoric era: The Kathmandu Valley has been inhabited for thousands of years, and there is evidence of human settlement dating back to the Neolithic period. The valley was likely a center of trade and cultural exchange from early on.

Early history : The Kathmandu Valley was conquered by the Kiratis, a group of Mongolian origin, in the 7th century AD. The Kiratis were followed by the Licchavis, who ruled the valley from the 4th to the 9th centuries AD.

Malla period : The Malla period, which lasted from the 9th to the 18th centuries, was a golden age for Kathmandu. The valley was divided into three small kingdoms: Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur. These kingdoms were centers of art, culture, and trade, and the Malla kings were known for their patronage of the arts.

Modern era : In the 19th century, Kathmandu was conquered by the Gurkhas, a group of warriors from the Himalayas. The Gurkhas established a monarchy and ruled Nepal until the 20th century, when Nepal became a republic. Today, Kathmandu is the cultural, economic, and political center of Nepal, and is home to a diverse population of over 1 million people.

Classic Things to Do in Kathmandu

My Nepali language teachers acted as my tour guide. They were sister pair, Pramila and Urmila. Together, the sisters structured my days to see the best things in Kathmandu each afternoon once our Nepali lessons had ended.

The goal was to have us understand the culture, history, and language before heading deeper into the rural areas of the Kathmandu Valley.

On my round the world trip , I’ve made a point to collect UNESCO World Heritage sites —these are spots that are natural or manmade sites provide an important contribution to the world’s history and development.

The Kathmandu Valley is home to seven UNESCO sites: Hanuman Dhoka, Patan and Bhaktapur, Swayambhunath and Boudhanath, and Pashupati and Changu Narayan.

Hanuman Dhoka (Durbar Square)

This a large square that sits opposite the series of temples and buildings that were once used by royalty. This area was built throughout a large swath of Nepal’s history, developing between the 12 th and 18 th centuries.

Durbar Square functioned as the seat of royalty for thousands of years—the nation’s kings were crowned here and ruled from these former palaces. Three separate squares are known collectively as Durbar Square, but each used to serve a different function.

Now, some palaces and buildings serve as museums, others were rebuilt in the 20th century. Through it all, you can explore the square and make a scavenger hunt of finding the many images of Hanuman, the monkey god.

Although much of the square is still filled with history and beauty, many major structures were reduced to rubble during the devastating, tragic 2015 earthquake that struck the Kathmandu Valley.

But there is still so much history and beauty to see!

If you have the time, I recommend packing a lunch from your favorite cafe, then sit on the steps like the locals. You can easily pass an hour watching the pigeons, people, and sadhus wander Durbar Square.

The Kumari Ghar

The part of the square I found most fascinating is the set of elaborately carved doors on the Kumari Ghar. The Royal Kumari of Kathmandu is a living goddess and it’s worth researching to see if you’ll be in Kathmandu during one of her handful of appearances.

The story of the Kumari leaves me equal parts fascinated and baffled. The Kumari is believed to literally be a living incarnation of the Hindu warrior goddess Taleju, also knowns as the fearsome goddess Durga. This living goddess lives in the temple, the Kumari Ghar, from the time she is selected as the next incarnation of Durga.

Each new Kumari is chosen as a three- to five-year-old from group of girls who share similar characteristics. To become the next embodiment of the Goddess, the girls have to meet a slew of restrictions that range from the date, hour, and minute of their birth to physical features like eye shape, skin color, and voice.

When a new Kumari is needed (when the current Kumari first menstruates or loses blood from an injury), the handful of young girls who meet the tight restrictions are then put through one further test to decide which one is the actual incarnation of the Hindu warrior goddess.

Each child is locked in a dark room where they hear scary noises and see flickering lights and watch gruesome animal heads and scary scenes. The theory is that the little girl who shows no fear—or the least amount of fear—must be the Goddess.

That chosen one is then taken to live in the Kumari Ghar with her family. She is only allowed to leave the temple 13 times a year for religious festivals, and her feet will never touch the ground while she is the Kumari.

As a westerner, this entire story struck me as stranger than fiction when Pramila shared the history and details. It’s a unique and small part of the city’s quirkiness, culture, and history, and it’s worth reading up on the Kumari if you’re interested. 

One former Kumari wrote a memoir  about what it was like to grow up under all of that attention and power.

That book is hard to find, however, so your best bet for more history on the Kumari is  The Living Goddess , a fascinating, painstakingly researched account of the history of the Kumari. It’s recent, and it serves as an anthropological study of the interplay between this goddess and the Nepali religion. And for a faster read, this NPR piece is intriguing .

Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)

On our afternoon sightseeing in Kathmandu, Pramila and her sister brought me to Swayambhunath, which is also known as Monkey Temple because of the hundreds of monkeys living in the surrounding trees.

Like Durbar Square, the Monkey Temple is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

As one of the holiest sites in Nepal, the Swayambhunath complex is just beautiful. The Stupa is set high up on a hill (pilgrims and visitors ascend 365 steps to get to the top).

From there, the Stupa stands tall and proud overlooking the Kathmandu Valley. Once you stumble up the last of the 365 steps, a massive gleaming white dome looms ahead.

From the center of the dome blooms a spire. On all four sides of the spire is the painted image of the wise and all-seeing eyes of Lord Buddha (the middle symbol is the third eye).

When you visit, be aware that the monkeys will aggressively steal food from your hands!

Boudhanath Stupa

Boudhanath is also a UNESCO site and is thought to be the largest Stupa in existence, and it’s the largest spherical stupa in Nepal.

Although Boudhanath was damaged during the 2015 earthquake, restoration efforts quickly restored this structure to its previous glory and stature.

Boudhanath is the center of Buddhism and the stupa is simply enormous. The Buddha eyes also peer from this stupa and look outward, watching over the Kathmandu Valley.

This stupa is located in a popular area of the city. Boudhanath was one on the ancient trade route between Tibet and India, and as the Tibetans fled their country in the 1950s, many followed that same route and decided to make a home near this holy spot.

And this stupa is so important that it is said to entomb Kassapa Buddha, the 27th of the 29 named Buddhas.

Pashupatinath Temple

This is a sacred site for the Hindu and it’s not to be taken on a lark. As a Westerner, consider observing the temple from the other side of the Bagmati River.

Also part of the Kathmandu Valley UNESCO site, the position across the river allows you to respectfully watch from above as they regularly perform ritual cremations in the ghats on the river’s edge.

Pashupatinath is a sprawling complex as well, so the bird’s eye view on the temples and ashrams is unique to other temples you will visit in Kathmandu.

But it’s all worth seeing up close to, so eventually head across the river to see the images and structures.

Unique Things to Do in Kathmandu

Get lost in thamel.

The Thamel District is the main backpacker area in Kathmandu, and it is known for its handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs—as well as backpacker cafes and all around good vibes.

It’s not only fun to wander through Thamel, but it’s just a rite of passage for backpackers in Nepal, and intriguing for travelers of any style. It’s busy, windy, and just plain interesting.

Oh, and if you get invited to join a vendor in Thamel for a chai while you shop, sit down and enjoy it —it’s all part of the joy of traveling in Nepal.

Buy Fun Local Souvenirs

Go on a shopping spree in the city’s bustling markets. Head further afield to local markets outside of Thamel. You’ll find a wide variety of items for sale, including traditional clothing, jewelry, and home decor.

I bought some gorgeous batik silk scarves on my first trip to Kathmandu that I still cherish more than 15 years later.

Take a Food Tour or Cooking Class

While often overshadowed by its larger neighbor India, Nepal’s range of dishes are worth sampling all on their own. Food tours and cooking classes are most often offered in Kathmandu and Pokhara, and they typically include a visit to local market, and at least a few restaurants and food stalls to sample a variety of traditional and unique Nepali dishes.

Viator offers some of the easiest ways to book ahead and secure a spot on a well-rated tour. I recommend you book a walking street food tour to at the start of your time in Kathmandu and Nepal, and then schedule a half-day cooking class in Thamel so that you can take home some skills and recipes to help remember your time in Nepal.

Spend the Afternoon at a Museum

Kathmandu is home to several museums, which are a great way to learn about the city’s history and culture.

The National Museum is home to a collection of artifacts from Nepal’s history, including artwork, sculptures, and weapons, and the Natural History Museum is home to a collection of specimens from Nepal’s flora and fauna.

Stop and Smell the Flowers

The Garden of Dreams is a beautiful garden located in the heart of the city that is home to a variety of plants and flowers. It’s a great place to relax and unwind.

Stop by the cafe, which offers cool drinks and a range of snacks so you can wallow in the relaxing atmosphere for even longer.

View the City from Above

A hot air balloon ride is a unique way to see Kathmandu and its surroundings. The balloon ride offers breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding mountains, and it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Best Day Trips from Kathmandu

Day Trip to Patan

Patan is an ancient city located just outside of Kathmandu, and it is known for its beautiful temples and palaces. It’s only a half-hour drive from Kathmandu, and once there you can spend the entire day exploring the city’s many temples and palaces, which are adorned with intricate carvings and art.

To cool off from the heat, visit the Patan Museum, which is home to a collection of artifacts from Nepal’s history.

Soak in the History of Bhaktapur

This culture-rich city makes for an easy and recommended day trip from Kathmandu. Like many things in Nepal, it’s chock full of history and the city itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

You’ll spend your time in Bhaktapur wandering through cobblestoned streets and red-brick lanes to see of the top sites, including Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Nyatapole Temple, Dattatreya Temple, and the 55 Window Palace.

This is completely doable independently for travelers who feel confident using the local buses and then want to soak in the city at their own pace, but there are also a number of super affordable tours that handle transport and also offer a guide who can fill in the ancient history and modern importance of these sites.

Get Rural and Local in Panauti

Panauti is a quiet, beautiful local village filled with locals and with few tourists to be found. Bhaktapur and other cities most travelers visit from Kathmandu still have a fair bit of hustle, but this small town offers three rivers to admire (Brahmayani, Roshi, and Punyabati), interesting temples, impressive Rana mansions, rice terraces, artisans, and more.

If you want to see a lot in a short time, book a day tour that includes Bhaktapur and Panauti so that you can maximize your time in both cities. A tour is also the best way to connect with locals and take in the slow pace of like in Kathmandu.

And travelers have noted that this tour is ideal for solo traveler since it runs even if no one else signs up (definitely not always the case!)

Tour the Kopan Monastery

The Kopan Monastery is located just outside of Kathmandu and is home to a community of Tibetan Buddhist monks. Visitors can take a guided tour of the monastery, which includes a visit to the main temple and the monks’ living quarters, and participate in a meditation session or a yoga class.

Admire Mount Everest

There are several ways to experience the majestic beauty of Mount Everest without having to trek all the way to Everest Base Camp. One option is to visit Gokyo Lake, which offers memorable views of the world’s highest mountain.

You can also opt for a panoramic helicopter tour of the Himalayas, which rides above the clouds and provides you with an up-close and personal view of Mount Everest.

Hike to a Sunrise View of the Himalayas

If you want to work for your scenic views, you can also hike from Kathmandu to a viewpoint of the Himalayas near Nagarkot. While you won’t be hiking the Himalayas like you can if you leave from Pokhara, you can site the majestic mountains.

And while there, you’ll also experience another UNESCO World Heritage Site (the Changu Narayan temple, which is dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu and is perhaps the oldest temple in Nepal), and interact with locals at villages along the hike.

Choose a full day tour from Kathmandu to see the UNESCO temple and the villages , or you could book a full day tour that makes it in time for sunrise from Nagarkot , and then stops in Bhaktapur, too.

All of the main sites are right in the Kathmandu Valley and are believed to relate not only to the formation and development of the Valley, but each one is directly tied to the country’s Buddhist and Hindu spirituality. 

The mix of religions in this part of the world is unique and quite harmonious. The other things to do are a great way to pass time in Kathmandu when you’re “templed” out and need a change of pace.

One of the temple complexes that I visited featured a stupa, a Hindu structure, and even some influences from nearby India. Three types of architecture and multiple religious beliefs all shared the same place and all of the worshippers commingle without conflict.

It’s a fascinating mix of cultures and religions that inhabits every heartbeat of Nepali culture and society.

And one gorgeous nuance to the entire experience of sightseeing in Kathmandu is the presence of Tibetan prayer flags. The lines of flags cascade like colorful waterfalls from temple peaks and treetops.

There is a good reason these flags start in high places, too. Each flag on the string contains a full mantra. When the wind blows through the prayer flags it carries the mantra throughout the world bringing peace and harmony.

I just love this idea. The concept is simple and the faith behind these prayer flags makes it all the more beautiful.

Likewise, the Tibetan prayer wheels inside the various temples run on a similar concept. Inscribed on each prayer wheel is a series of mantras and prayers.

When you spin all of the prayer wheels in succession, you are sending one complete prayer into world. I love the universality of many of these beliefs.

The religion aims at gently spreading peace throughout the world as well as using their prayer and spirituality to better their own lives, too.

Don’t forget to  book travel insurance for your trip —a great policy provides coverage in case of medical emergencies, lost or stolen gear, adventure sports riders, and more. I’ve used  IMG Global  for more than a decade  highly recommend it !

Quick Travel Planning Tips for Kathmandu

Visas & getting there.

If you’re in India, airlines fly many times a day between Delhi and Kathmandu — this is definitely the easiest way to enter. There are overland options too, but Nepal is mountainous and not every border crossing will effectively carry you to Kathmandu.

For visas, entering Kathmandu is mostly easy—it’s visa-on-arrival for US citizens.  The ATMS are one catch, however, because the airport ATM is never working. I had learned my lesson about carrying backup travel cash in Laos, so I always  and always carried cash stashed away in different spots in my packs.

On arrival, I had US $60 in cash, but the three-month visa cost $100 US. Since the ATM was broken, that presented an interesting issue. I ended up bumming money off of a couple of people nearby who I then met up with in Thamel to return their funds!

Plan Your Trip Online

I have a full Nepal Travel Guide on the site. This page details sights, history and culture, recommended reading, and everything essential that you should know before you go. That said, here are three things to keep in mind before traveling around Nepal.

• Respect local customs and traditions : Nepal is a predominantly Hindu and Buddhist country, and it is important to respect the local customs and traditions. This includes dressing modestly, taking off your shoes before entering temples and homes, and avoiding public displays of affection.
• Stay safe : Kathmandu can be a chaotic and crowded city, and it is important to take precautions to stay safe. Avoid walking alone at night, keep an eye on your belongings, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Carry travel insurance for those times when something does go wrong.
• Hire a local guide : Hiring a local guide can be a great way to get to know the city and learn about its history and culture. Guides can help you navigate the city, recommend places to visit and things to do, and provide insight into local customs and traditions. I had a local guide while visiting all of the major temples and sights and it really made my experience better.

Best Guidebook

I like using Lonely Planets mostly because I am super familiar with the layouts, they have a good transportation section, and what they lack in history and insight I can easily find online!

Where to Stay in Kathmandu

First, choose an area to stay. Backpackers will head to Thamel and most others will likely want to opt for Boudhanath. But here’s the vibes in each.

• Thamel : Thamel is the main tourist area in Kathmandu and is known for its vibrant nightlife, shopping, and dining. It is located close to many of the city’s main attractions, including Kathmandu Durbar Square, and it is easy to get around on foot or by taxi.
• Patan : Patan is an ancient city located just outside of Kathmandu, and it is known for its beautiful temples and palaces. It is a quieter and more traditional area, and it is a great place to stay if you want to experience traditional Nepali culture. Given that it’s only 30 minutes away, it’s a pretty good option!
• Boudhanath : Boudhanath is an area located just outside of Kathmandu that is home to the Boudhanath Stupa, which is one of the largest in Nepal and is an important center of Tibetan Buddhism. The area is known for its peaceful atmosphere and is a great place to stay if you want to experience the city’s spiritual side.

I use Booking.com for the vast majority of my international travel. Consider  Hotel Mums Home  on a budget, Hotel Tibet  for midrange, and Hotel Yak & Yeti  for a nice place from which to organize your search.

Essential Travel Planning Resources

❗ Yes, you need travel insurance . IMG Global is the travel insurance I’ve used for well over a decade of traveling solo, and with kids. Here’s why .

🧳 Smart packing can save your trip. Shop my favorite travel gear , including all of the packing essentials for world travel , gear to keep you safe on the road, my favorite travel books , and more.

🛏️ Find great accommodation . Booking.com is essentially the only hotel booking site that I use. It has a wide and affordable selection of traditional hotels, but also hostels and vacation rentals, too. Use these pro tips to find the best travel accommodation .

📍 Navigate more effectively. Rome2Rio is super handy to assess the full range of transport options between two cities—shows everything from flights to trains, buses, minibuses, and more. If you’re booking a rental car, I’ve always found the best deals on RentalCars.com .

✈️ Book affordable flights. Expedia is one of the first places I look for low-cost flights .

☕ Peruse all of my tips for round the world travel , or learn how to move and live abroad .

Nepal Travel Guide

A guide to everything I learned while backpacking Nepal. From Kathmandu to Pokhara—and a lot in between—here’s where to go, my favorite places, and everything you should know before you go.

8 thoughts on “A Little Culture… Exploring Kathmandu’s Stupas, Temples, and Culture”

One of my memorable event in Kathmandu was gorging on sizzling Choila with pickles, potatoes and Chiura in Basantpur. If you visit Kathmandu next time, I recommend this place for mouth watering local Nepali dishes.

Thanks for the post.

Your information is amazing I love to read about lakes in Nepal definitely try to visit these amazing lakes, and there is anything else that you want to share with me about these lakes.

I lived in Nepal for 4 years… Amazing learning curve as a Westerner to say the least!! I love the way you have captured it in words! I travelled overland from New Delhi… I remember going across a bridge into Nepal and everything relaxed and felt so so different!! I was travelling alone in India and had some really crappy experiences… Not in Nepal. Suzi.

So funny that you experienced that same sense of calm when you arrived in Nepal. Thank you for sharing your own experiences!

Your description about Nepal is just awesome. Even After being a nepali and visiting almost all the places mentioned above your description was quite amazing I would say.

Thank you! So glad it resonated!

I read a whole thing about these goddess, They end up having the most horrible lives, because they’re ripped away from their families, when they return they have no social skills, no one wants to marry them and they end up all alone. it’s human torture if you ask me.

Wow, those prayer flags are beautiful. I love the idea as well behind them.

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The 12 BEST Places to Visit in Kathmandu, Nepal [2024]

• Last Updated: February 5, 2024

There are so many amazing places to visit in Kathmandu, and after multiple trips to Nepal’s fascinating capital, I’ve put together this epic list to help you plan your travels!

Kathmandu, the remarkable capital of Nepal, has a rich history dating back to the 12th century.

It’s a hectic, busy and loud city, and there’s a good chance you will either fall in love with Kathmandu, or you’ll just want to escape to the Garden of Dreams.

With so many incredible tourist places in Kathmandu you could never be bored here, and when you travel to Nepal you should ensure you spend at least a few days here.

Table of Contents

1) Boudhanath Stupa

2) durbar square, 3) swayambhunath, souvenirs to check out in thamel, best restaurants on freak street, 6) asan tole, 7) pashupatinath, 8) garden of dreams, 9) kopan monastery, 10) kumari bahal, 11) bhojan griha, 12) chabahil stupa, nepali ghar hotel, crowne soaltee plaza, kathmandu guest house, traditional comfort boutique hotel, the best places to visit in kathmandu.

Kathmandu boosts everything from ancient Buddhist and Hindu temples to spice markets bound to have you sneezing or buying exotic products by the kilo.

Kathmandu might seem ‘crazy’ at first glance, but behind the curtain peace can be found by visiting Swayambhunath ‘Monkey’ Temple or Kopan Monastery where you are bound to find a little piece of Nirvana.

If food is your thing, after trying momos or garlic soup (which there are endless supplies of), there’s a pretty good chance you’ll be left salivating for more.

Kathmandu is crazy busy all year round so I have put together this article to help find the best places to visit in Kathmandu .

”My best tip for exploring Kathmandu is to start from the middle and work your way out”.

Love hiking? Check out our brand new, complete guide to  trekking in Nepal!

Situated 7 kilometres from the centre of Thamel, Boudhnath (or Boudha) is possibly the top of the list of the most stunning tourist places in Kathmandu.

Boudha is one of the largest stupas in Asia (a Stupa is a place of worship where Buddhist generally visit for worship).

Boudha is seriously impressive and can be seen from kilometres away, but when you are up close joining the thousands of pilgrims and tourists; it’s truly an amazing site to see.

Boudha was said to be built around 600AD, around the same time the Tibetan King decided to convert to Buddhism, which makes Boudha a very sacred place for Buddhists.

Amazingly, Boudha survived the horrendous 2015 earthquake with very little damage.

Boudha can get very busy, and a few tips from an insider informed me that the best time to visit is just on dark when locals come out to light butter lamps and burn incense.

When thinking about what to see in Kathmandu, don’t miss here!

Slightly north of Boudhanath is Ka-Nying Sheldrup Ling Gompa, which is also Tibetan in nature and like Boudhanath is white. Ka-Nying Sheldrup Ling Gompa is a place for learning Tibetan Buddhism.

• Address: Buddha Stupa, Boudhanath Sadak
• Opening hours: 24h/7
• Price: 400 rupees

South of Thamel lays Durbar Square, which unfortunately was severely damaged in the 2015 earthquake.

The Durbar Square of Kathmandu is listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site, and sometimes is confused with the village of Bhaktupur.

Durbar Square is collection of temples, stupas and the odd Sadhu or two. Durbar Square is quite easily accessed from Thamel, some 700 metres away, and once you are there you can explore some of the larger temples or just sit back and watch people feed pigeons.

It can be quite overwhelming with all of the different structures, so to help you out these are a few sites to check out in Durbar Square:

Seto (White) Bhairab – a large carving of a strange looking creature said to be made in 1794 which is popular among pilgrims during the Indra Jatra festival in September.

Jagannath Temple – One of the oldest structures in Durbar Square with strange, erotic carvings situated on the struts of the roof with 3 doors that appear to gain you access to the temple with only one that opens.

Taleju Temple – is described as the most magnificent temple in Durbar but is not easily accessed by Hindus or tourists. Taleju is 35 metres high which holds 12 smaller temples inside surrounded by 4 gates.

Indrapur Temple – No one really knows which God this temple was built for. Some say it’s for Shiva while others say it’s for Vishnu which to this day we just don’t know.

Mahendreshwar Temple – Topped with a golden umbrella, this temple is dedicated to the God Shiva. Mahendreshwar Temple is constantly buzzing with pilgrims despite its strange appearance.

If you wish to explore more then book this full-day tour , where you will have an opportunity to visit three Durbar Squares in Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur!

Durbar Square is considered one of the most well known Kathmandu attractions and as such, is completely unmissable!

• Price: 1,000 rupees

Perched above the city of Kathmandu is one of its most spectacular stupas, known to most as  Monkey Temple.

Swayambhunath is a listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and rightly so, as its a gorgeous historical site, and provides some of the best accessible views of Kathmandu with basically 360 degree views.

To me, Swayambhunath given its location, is one of the best places to visit in Kathmandu. It’s truly a Kathmandu must see.

The Swayambhunath stupa is decorated with prayer flags that are placed amongst an array of temples, stupas and statues.

It makes everything so close in proximity and when you add people it can get quite packed, but don’t let that put you off your visit.

The best time to visit Swayambhunath is early morning around 730am, when the skies are calm and there are drastically less people at the stupa.

Walking around Swayambhunath is best done in accordance to local custom by walking around in a clockwise direction (kora); this also stops you from running into people coming the other way.

Swayambhunath, like Boudhanath, can be slightly confusing as there is so much happening. so here’s a few quick tips to guide you to the right spots:

Great Thunderbolt – The thunderbolt of Dorje is a gigantic brass made thunderbolt which is a symbol of enlightenment. This can be found at the eastern stairway.

Eastern Stairway – If you are feeling fit, why not take the stairs? The eastern stairway was constructed in the 17 th century which leads directly to the great thunderbolt and the stupa itself. But be careful when ascending or descending these stairs as macaques will try to bite you or steal your food.

Western Stupa – From the main entrance take a left and meander the stone cobbled path until you come across a Gompa perched overlooking the mountains surrounding Kathmandu.

Buddha Amideva Park – One of the lesser visited places at Swayambhunath is the Buddha Amideva Park where 3 enormous statues made from gold are erected dedicated to Guru Rinpoche.

While you’re here it might be worth visiting the Natural History Museum which is a rather strange attempt at a museum you would see in Trafalgar Square.

Entrance to the museum is 50 rupees, and apparently 50 rupees for your camera.

Book this full-day private tour which takes you to four of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Kathmandu Valley, among which Swayambhunath is included.

• Address: atop a hill in the Kathmandu Valley
• Price: 200 rupees

Thamel is Kathmandu’s tourist hotspot, complete with international restaurants, souvenir shops, hiking stores and street vendors selling delicious cuisines.

Thamel is probably the most popular of all Kathmandu tourist attractions so be prepared for street vendors trying to sell you flutes and a whole lot of exotic souvenirs.

Thamel central is the ultimate place to chill out in the city, and is usually the top thing people from abroad are keen on when thinking of what to see in Kathmandu.

Thamel Marg – Thamel Marg is the main street in the suburb and it’s pretty cool to explore with draping prayer flags strung from building to building while the sound of singing bowls buzz throughout the air mixed with a hint of incense (or the wafting smell of momo’s). Lots of the shops in Thamel Marg are the same and prices of souvenirs will be the same from shop to shop.

Mandala Street –  This super chilled out street feels as if you are in the back streets of Melbourne complete with fairy lights, book stores and cafes. For a great coffee, head upstairs to Himalayan Java Coffee, order a Honey Latte where you can sit above Mandala Street and watch the world go by.

Pashminas – a pashmina is a scarf made from goat hair which usually comes from the higher Himalaya. The higher the percentage of goat hair the more expensive the pashmina will be. Expect to pay about $50 USD but do haggle for a better price as haggling is acceptable in Kathmandu.

Singing bowls – are a type of bell generally made from copper and tin which when tapped softly, a small wooden stick is used to vibrate the sound to create a soothing low frequency sound. If you buy a singing bowl, make sure you go for the handmade ones not the machine made bowls as handmade bowls create a higher quality sound.

Prayer Flags – When buying prayer flags, make sure you buy flags that will breakdown after a period of time because the last thing you want is a mess of flags covering the landscape. You will be able to buy prayer flags in almost every shop you go to.

5) Freak Street

Freak Street (today known as Jochne Marg)  was the Thamel of the 1960s and 1960s. with awesome restaurants, strange characters and those seeking enlightenment on visiting Nepal or those who live within the country.

With Kathmandu so rapidly growing and Thamel becoming the new tourist hotspot, Freak Street isn’t quite as it used to be, but don’t let that put you off going; it’s still worth a visit!

It plays an important part of the Kathmandu sightseeing experience!

Kumari Restaurant – somewhat remaining relevant to its older days, Kumari Restaurant is cheap and provides an assortment of local and international cuisines.

Snowman – one of the more strange places to relax is Snowman Restaurant. Grab a cake and coffee and be immersed into what Freak Street used to be like.

This is the place to go to get your serving of fresh fruit and vegetables. Asan Tole is a bit like an outside supermarket with everything from exotic spices, marigolds, and yak off-cuts to bottles of homebrew (Rakshi) by the litre.

Asan Tole is so popular for growers and sellers that produce from the far reaches of the Kathmandu Valley is bought in on a daily basis.

Roaming around Asan Tole is one of the best things to do in Kathmandu.

Surrounding Asan Tole are a series of temples such as the Annapurna Temple and the Krishna Temple,  which are both quite unique in detail and positioning with the Krishna Temple sandwiched between two large buildings.

The Krishna Temple is nicely decorated with exotic wood carvings while the Annapurna Temple is dedicated to ‘abundance’, hence the reason why the Asan Tole markets are held underneath its entrance.

Prolong your travel and see the rest of the country – read more in our Nepal Travel Guide !

Perched on the banks of the holy Bagmati River, Pashupatinath is highly sacred Hindu temple where you can see the holy men known as Sadhus creating crazy poses for the camera and eye opening cremations along the river Bagmati.

Pashupatinath, although quite expensive to enter, is one of the best places to visit near Kathmandu; the experiences possible are truly amazing.

Start your adventure by visiting Pashupatinath Temple, which is the largest structure in the area painted gold.

You cannot enter unless you are a Hindu, but from just walking around the grounds, you are able to grab an insight into what actually happens within the temple.

The cremation Ghats located along the river Bagmati are bound to move you in some way or form, so be prepared to see confronting scenes.

The ceremony itself can be witnessed by anyone but please be respectful and do not take film or footage as this is a very distressing time for families in attendance.

Bachhareschwari Temple – this 6th century constructed temple is complete with strange decorations such as skeletons and erotic figures which are connected to the Maha Shivarati Festival (celebrating Shiva’s birthday).

Ram Temple – a great place to visit during the Maha Shivarati Festival where Sadhus gather in celebration meaning you have a chance to capture some amazing portraits or have the opportunity to learn about why the Sadhus are so holy.

Gorakhnath Temple – This temple is perched above Mrigasthali Deer Park and can be quite hard to find but is worth the visit as the temple bathed in red and white which is quite different from other temples in Pashupatinath.

• Address: Pashupati Nath Road 44621
• Opening hours: every day from 4 AM – 12 PM & 5 PM – 9 PM

Defined as ‘neo-classical’, the Garden of Dreams is a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu, located south of Thamel along Tridevi Marg.

The Garden of Dreams was created in the early 1920’s as a way for locals and tourists to come relax and rejuvenate the body and soul.

It is quite a contrast to what is outside of the gates as green grass, ponds filled with lilies and lush trees which all come together to create a mini botanical gardens in the middle of Kathmandu.

It’s a bit strange seeing a European inspired garden in Nepal, but having this little piece of paradise in one of the busiest cities in Asia really helps take your mind of all the crazy things going on outside of the complex.

It’s worth adding to the list of awesome places to visit in Kathmandu.

• Address: Tridevi Sadak
• Opening hours: every day from 9 AM – 10 PM

One of the lesser visited monasteries, this is quite the hidden gem. Kopan Monastery sits above the city of Kathmandu providing stunning 180 degree views.

Kopan is a place for Tibetan Buddhism where pilgrims come to visit, along with tourists seeking relaxation and meditation, and in the last few years has become increasingly popular due to the stunning architecture.

This makes Kopan Monastery one of the most unique places to visit near Kathmandu.

Currently, Kopan Monastery hosts 360 students, teachers, monks and lamas all to which to learn Tibetan Buddhism.

• Address: near Boudhanath, on the outskirts of Kathmandu
• Opening hours: every day from 9 AM – 11:30 AM & 1 PM – 4:30 PM
• Price: Free of charge

The Kumari Devi is a living goddess and is the most important deity to the people of Kathmandu.

It is often very difficult to capture a glimpse of this young girl unless you are attending the Indra Jatra Festival in September, however the Kumari Bahal (house of the Kumari) can be seen by visiting Durbar Square.

Why would you want to see the house of the Kumari? The building its self is quite architecturally spectacular, with a three story courtyard, to which the Kumari can be seen wandering around.

Please note that you are not allowed to take photos or film of the girl herself as it is strictly prohibited.

Address: at the crossroad of Durbar and Basantapur squares

This is definitely one of the most unique buildings and dining experiences you can experience in Kathmandu.

Bhojan Griha is a 150 year old building built for past royals who resided in this now kind of scary building (from the inside), but Bhojan is so full of life with its amazing 5-course traditional Newari feast and it truly is amazing!

The service is almost faultless and the traditional dancing that happens while you are eating away at delicious vegetable thali with a side of Raksi (home brew).

What makes this place even more awesome is that they are completely sustainable by not using plastics, straws or bottles, making you order by the glass as Bhojan Griha buys everything in bulk while the food is 100% organic.

This place is awesome for a night out!

Heading northeast out of Kathmandu (from Thamel) you will come across Chabahil Stupa which is a smaller version of Bodhnath and Swayambhunath, which unfortunately was damaged in the 2015 earthquake to now has been restored back to its original ways.

Chabahil Stupa is not as busy as the bigger stupas leaving you with more room to explore without bumping into someone.

That’s it for my guide on the best places to visit in Kathmandu, Nepal. Have you been? Found the list useful? Leave a comment below and let me know!

Where To Stay In Kathmandu

Now that you’ve figured out the best places to visit in Kathmandu, it’s time to sort out where to stay in the city. There’s a few different options, and as an experienced traveller there these are my best tips.

Staying In Thamel

Thamel is the centre of everything in Kathmandu, and things have gotten a whole lot quieter here due to cars and trucks being blocked from entering these streets.

Thamel is a safe suburb to stay and is relatively clean. Thamel boasts an array of restaurants, shops and sites to visit.

Situated in the heart of Thamel, Nepali Ghar is a newly built hotel within walking distance to Durbar Square, Thamel and the Garden of Dreams.

The rooms are stunning, offering all the necessities for a comfortable stay in Kathmandu. Nepali Ghar even has its own gym and balcony to which you can sit back and enjoy a fine cup of masala tea.

Kathmandu’s finest hotel, situated a few kilometres out of the city centre of Thamel.

Soaltee provides a haven for relaxation amongst the hustle of Kathmandu where you can enjoy the use of a gym, fine dining, pool and massage.

Kathmandu Guest House is like a home away from home and it’s been proven to be one of the most popular places for celebrities since Nepal opened its borders to the rest of the world.

What makes KGH a success story is that it was severely affected by the 2015 earthquake, to which most of the structures became reduced to rubble, and since then KGH has bounced back to be a stunning place to stay (and is relatively cheap given its unique position in Thamel).

Staying In Dilli Bazaar

Situated only a few kilometres from Thamel, Dilli Bazaar is quite a good option to stay in Kathmandu, although it can be tricky getting to and from your hotel to Thamel and surrounds.

Some of the hotels are new and are not necessarily on Google maps or known to your taxi driver. However, Dilli Bazaar is nice if you want to escape the masses of tourists staying in Thamel.

Based on Newari architecture, Traditional Comfort is a stunningly established building only a few kilometres from the cities centre.

Everything from your room to dining at the restaurant or on the rooftop is faultless…the rooftop is awesome with nearly 360 degree views of Kathmandu where you can enjoy a sunrise or sunset.

[box] My last visit to Kathmandu was to attend the Himalayan Travel Mart as a delegate on behalf of NOMADasaurus. All thoughts, opinions and hours spent at stupas are, as always, my own.[/box]

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Calumn Hockey

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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Wow, I didn’t know Kathmandu had so many hidden gems to explore! As a frequent traveler to Nepal, I’m excited to add some new destinations to my itinerary. Thanks for sharing this comprehensive list of the 12 best places to visit in Kathmandu!

One of my memorable event in Kathmandu was gorging on sizzling Choila with pickles, potatoes and Chiura in Basantpur. If you visit Kathmandu next time, I recommend this place for mouth watering local Nepali dishes.

Thanks for the post.

You have very well explain about Nepal. I got a lot of help from your blog thank you so much for sharing.You have done all things very well in own blog, I like that thing very much.Nepal is a beautiful country and known as the “Kingdom of Snow Mountains”. Buddhism, palace buildings, and rich and colorful natural resources constitute the local unique tourism resources.

Thank you for your comment. 🙂

Awesome Article!!! Perfectly written about the Kathmandu valley what it is all about. Hope to read more blog like it in future.

Thank you so much. Appreciate it. Calumn is a great writer.

Im going there in Nov and this is d most complete and inspiring guide i can ever have to start my breakfree journey. Thanks so much!

Hope you had a great trip Lena. Happy travels

Love to read your article.i am tour manager from local travel company from Nepal, called Three Diamond Adventure.Your article is more trust worthy and best example for my Clint before going those monuments.Thanks for sharing great post.

Hope you found a great tour company and had a great trip. All the best.

I have an outgoing nature. I love to travel and visit different new places. Though I was born in Kathmandu, I have not gone to many beautiful places that you have included in your article. Thank you so much for this informative article. I will recommend my friends too to visit your site once.

Nepal is a peaceful country. The capital of Nepal is Kathmandu. Kathmandu city includes various UNESCO World Heritage Site. You are surely going to love your vacation here. You can spend quality time with your loved one. It is the best destination to observe the Hinduism and Buddhism. If you are foody then you are going to love the city. The information flowed by the article about the places to visit and stay in Kathmandu is surely going to help people who want to visit Nepal. Thank you so much for the informative article.

Calumn Hockey,

Great post and guide

Nepal is a remarkable country with full of peace and environment. This is an amazing article where I saw most of the attractive places to visit. The description and guide of each place you had provided in your article are interesting to read, where it takes mind in reality through your article.

I am also planning to stay three nights in Kathmandu from 16th to 18th April, 2019. Any suggestion regarding my trip is always welcome. Thanks.

Amazing article and really loved the guides you provided the links in between really very helpful. Great list and very informative, I came across the article when I was doing research on the places to visit in Kathmandu. In fact, I am working with a hospitality company which provides affordable ticket booking and hotel stays. This article of yours helped me a lot in my research.

Thanks a lot.

Looking forward to more articles.

Going there in april next year with my 14 year young grand daughter Is the dream of my life Want to go there since I was 14 year old and read a book about NEPAL Now it finally will become true. ( I am 65 now )I barely can’t wait for the day we will leave for Kathmandu.We will stay on week in Kathmandu a few days in Pokhara and 4 days in Chitwan. Will let you know about our trip when we are back

Great one. Love to read about my birthplace. Love Nepal

Thank you. Calumn wrote a great article for us. We can not wait to visit one day. 🙂

Yep think I’m game enough for an adventure there now !

You should do it Julie. 🙂

Kathmandu is my dream place. Always want to go there and spend some day. All pictures looks amazing and your picture me want to go there. Thank you so much for sharing a wonderful list to visit the Kathmandu.

Thank you so much for reading. We hope you get there one day. All the best.

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A Complete Travel Guide to Kathmandu City

It’s no surprise that Nepal attracts around 790,000 foreigners every year through land and air.

More interestingly, tourists from around the globe choose Nepal for different recreational activities and cross them off the things-to-do-before-I-die list.

What will give you that adrenaline rush are the fact that Nepal is geographically diversified resulting in different thrilling adventures.

Over 40,000 people venture into trekking to Everest Base Camp, which makes it the most popular trek in Nepal, followed by Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

If you are travelling to Nepal for the first time in hopes of trekking and embarking on adventures, Kathmandu will be your first stop as it has the only international airport in Nepal.

Kathmandu is also the capital city of Nepal. So there are a lot of things this city has to offer too.

Kathmandu recently made its way to the list of Top 25 cities ‘ Traveller’s Choice’ by Trip Advisor , beating Sydney. Moreover, Kathmandu is the only South-Asian country to make it to the list.

Back in 2013, Kathmandu was ranked third among the top 10 travel destinations on the rise in the world by Trip Advisor which also meant it ranked first in Asia.

Kathmandu has always fascinated people from all around the world with its beautiful hills and around 130 ancient and important monuments.

So if you give this city a chance to show you how wonderful it is, you’ll definitely want to lengthen your stay.  It has that effect on everyone.

We Have Covered

Getting to Know Kathmandu City

It’s a known fact that Kathmandu is a size of a peanut geographically but when it comes to culture and lifestyle, it dominates most cities.

The city is above 2000 years old and is situated at 1400 meters above sea level.

Nepal is basically known for its altitudinal variations, ranging between 100 m above the sea level to peak of the Earth, the Mt. Everest.

Also Nepal is the mountainous country having many sky-penetrating mountains with lush green meadows, serene hills and deepest gorge.

Among many hill stations , some of the most notable ones are: Kakani, Nagarkot, Chandragiri, Dhulikhel and Shivapuri.

The city got its name ‘Kathmandu’ from the ‘Kasthamandap Temple’ located at Durbar Square, which means a shelter made through the wood of a single tree.

Also the legends say that before this heavy human civilization, Kathmandu used to be a huge wide lake which was later cut by the goddess Manjushree and the water ran out.

Even though the city is packed with heritages, it isn’t what it used to be anymore. The earthquake of 25 th April, 2015 destroyed everything leaving people devastated.

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Sites in Kathmandu City

Kathmandu, being as small as a city can get, is full of interesting things to observe.

There’s a wide range of people belonging to different cultures, their own monuments with their own gods and goddesses, and even their own variety of food and cuisines.

You not only get to soak in every little ounce of culture but also get to enjoy them thoroughly.

I’d rather not confuse you with more information so let me move onto the descriptions of ‘must visit places’ around the city.

1. Kathmandu Durbar Square

Basantapur Durbar Kshetra, also widely known was Kathmandu Durbar Square is one of the three royal palaces of the former Kathmandu Kingdom.

The kshetra surrounded by much brilliant architectures depicting the talent and dedication of craftsmen over the centuries.

The monuments had their own pride and would stand tall but after the devastating earthquake, we can’t say that anymore.

Kathmandu Durbar Square was the kingdom where ancient kings were crowned and legitimized and from where they began ruling.

In order to preserve and have people reminisce what their ancestors passed down, many festivals (jatras) are carried out on special occasions.

The Durbar Square area is the combination of 3 linked squares.

To the south of the square, you’ll find the open Basantapur area, former elephant stables that is now used to keep souvenir stalls and off which runs the very famous freak street.

To the west lie many temples and monuments which were once a sitting spots for people. It’s very therapeutic.

Moving northeast, you’ll see the second part of the Durbar Square. It exhibits a giant and fierce looking statue of Kaalbhairab leading up to Hanuman Dhoka.

Further northeast you will enter into the local and very busy market from where you can buy and eat almost anything.

You just have to keep your eyes and sense of smell open.

2. Swyambhunath

Swayambhunath is believed to be the oldest monument in the valley. It is also known as Monkey Temple .

It dates back to 5 th century when the great-grandfather of King Manadev established this historical monument.

In Tibetan the word ‘Swayambhunath’ means ‘Sublime Trees’ indicating many varieties of trees found on the hill atop which the stupa stands.

One of the most interesting things you can find there are the 365 stone steps on he entrance. People go back and forth on those steps every day of their lives.

The steps can be very helpful to burn calories and when you reach the top, the view is mesmerizing.

At the top, you’ll see the Buddhist white-washed stupa with its well-bound eyes seeing all four sides of the valley. You’ll find other shrines and temples each beautiful than the other.

After the 365 th step, you’ll find the biggest Vajra (thunder-bolt scepter), which signifies indestructibility of the diamond and the irresistible force of thunderbolt. Thus, Vajra is the symbolic representation of firmness of spirit.

If you aren’t that much of a pedestrian the there’s a road around the hill from the south leading to the Southwest entrance. You’ll still have to walk a few steps but it’s nothing compared to earlier.

Buddha Park is a great place to visit if you’ve got some time to spare.

It consists of three big statues of Amitabha Buddha, Avalokiteshvara and Padmasambhava. The environment inside these is very peaceful and you can also enter there free of cost.

3. Pasupatinath

A highly acclaimed religious place for people following Hinduism all around the globe, Pasupatinath is a beauty in itself.

It is located at the bank of Bagmati River. Pasupatinath is dedicated to the Lord Shiva.

Built in around 5 th century, it is regarded as the oldest Hindu temple of Nepal.

Unfortunately nothing of 5 th century remains this day due to destruction done by the Mughal invaders. It was later built in the 19 th century.

Pasupatinath is truly a place for boosting your inner self. Its calming environment calms your troubled soul down.

However, only Hindu people are allowed to go inside the main temple of Pasupatinath. The non-Hindu ones can view the temple from across Bagmati river.

It feels bad knowing you can’t enter the temple, right? Well worry less my friend because you can enter but only after 5pm.

After 5pm, the worshippers do Aarti (a special kind of worshipping), which is truly something everyone should see.

Whenever I’m stressed about anything, I find myself captivated by the elegance and devotion of Hindu people towards this holy place.

Not everyone is a spiritual person. Even if you aren’t, you can still observe the nature that has blessed the temple in so many ways.

Pasupatinath is not a place you’d want to miss visiting. Trust me!

4. Boudhanath

A sacred place for people following Buddhism, Boudhanath is another incredible pride of Nepal.

The huge Mandala upon which the stupa stands is the best creation in itself. You’ll love it.

After Boudhanath was enlisted in the UNESCO world heritage site in 1979 AD, it was been drawing a huge amount of national as well as international tourists.

Something about walking along the 108 small depictions of Dhyani Buddha (Amitabha) at the base of the Stupa is stress-relieving.

A brick wall comprising 147 niches, each with four or five prayer wheel engraved with the Buddhist mantra, surrounds the huge Stupa. You will see a huge number of people spinning those wheels and if you try it, you might enjoy it as well.

You can also see lots and lots of street vendors and ancient curio shops. Get yourself anything and take away a memory with you from this holy place.

5. Famous Heritage Walk

The famous heritage walk spans around the local areas around the central Kathmandu, giving you a deeper perspective to this city.

You’ll probably be staying in Thamel from where the heritages walk kind of starts.

Thamel is a very busy little place with numerous luxury hotels, artifact shops, tattoo inns, vintage shops and varieties of restaurants.

The very first hotel of Kathmandu i.e ‘Kathmandu Guest House’ had started their mega business there which helped other hotels to emerge eventually.

From the bottom of the Thamel’s Norshing Chowk, you’ll enter Thahiti Chowk. A very popular part of the old city, it has numerous temples, shrines and antique shops.

Thahiti stands for its old ‘Thahiti Stupa’ which is said to have been built around 15 th century. Across it, you will find the the Nateshwar temple.

Ason Chowk will probably be your next stop which won’t be that hard to notice considering there is a three-storied Annapurna Temple.

Across the temple, you’ll find a beautiful 2-storied brass Ganesh Temple, in front of which lies the mysterious celestial stone fish surrounded by a stone wall.

Around these temples will be tons of people moving in all the directions humanly possible, and that’s the beauty of it. People will be busy selling vegetables and spices to make a living, some buying them, some exploring the place in any way possible.

If you take south, there is a street filled with incredible metalwork, especially utensils. Straight on this way and you’ll reach Jana Bahal, featuring the majestic temple of Luchhubhulu Ajima.

Going south of the same way, you’ll find yourself at Indra Chowk. You’ll know its Indra Chowk when you see tons of shawls showcased for sale on the temple’s step.

That temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva which was built in the 18 th century. Its distinguishable characteristic is its big black stone.

On the right after moving a little ahead, you’ll see The Aakash Bhairab (Indra Mandir). The statue of Lord Indra is placed on the second floor of that rectangular building.

You also might observe a big crowd on the ground floor of the temple.

The crowd is there to take luscious sip of the amazing lassi ( a yoghurt based thick drink with nuts and sweets). Best in the city.

Passing the Aakash Bhairab, you’ll find yourself standing between two streets. Take one on the right and follow it to the end.

Now you’re in the Kathmandu Durbar Square’s north end.

While walking through the heritage walk, don’t freak out when you feel like you’re lost. You’ll be okay, trust me.

One road might not lead to where you thought it would but that’s what’s interesting about this place. The unpredictability.

And all the narrow streets have a common end so there’s really nothing to worry about. Just explore every corner possible.

Best place to eat in Kathmandu?

Food is something you cannot wait to explore every time to visit a new place? Well friend you’ve come to a very interesting place.

This time don’t go for what you always been on a daily basis. Try something totally different.

Kathmandu will surprise you with its culinary magic.

The list of places I’m about to make will not only help you taste new things but it’ll also engrave a memory deep into your tongue.

After all, it’s not just you who should explore. Your tongue should do the same.

1. Tukche Thakali Kitchen

To Nepalese people, Daal Bhat Tarkari is an essential part of the meal. They take this every day for almost the rest of their lives.

Almost 99% of the Nepalese households prepare daal bhat twice a day and savor the taste as per choice.

The Thakalis have a special set of hands which prepare the most authentic version of daal bhat there is.

There are tons of Thakali Kitchens which aren’t as authentic as the other. So take yourself to Lazimpat-Uttar Dhoka , find Tukche Thakali Kitchen and prepare to be blown away.

If you can’t reach to Lazimpat then that’s fine as long as you find the best alternative.

The good news is there is a better alternative located there in Thamel.

The Mustang Thakali Chulo also serves the best Daal Bhat Tarkari.

2. Himalayan Java

At the end of the Basantapur Durbar Square, right next to some authentic vintage shops, you’ll find a wonderful café called Himalayan Java café.

Himalayan Java has been promoting Nepali Coffee since 1999 AD and has successfully won millions of hearts.

After your heritage walk, you can visit there for some relaxation. Not only does it serve the best coffee in town but the environment is so therapeutic.

The customer service is amazing. They’ll treat you so well.

And if your tummy’s demanding some food to go in, you can find so many restaurants in the Freak Street . Some of them are Upstairs, Grasshopper, Secrets lounge and Suryamoon Bistro.

3. Lazimpat

Lazimpat is a very well-known tourist area. Mostly known as the home of some of the most luxurious hotels, it has a pride of its own.

You can always find better alternatives here for any restaurant. Every single one of them will surprise you.

On top of that, you’ll get to experience live music while devouring the delicacies in the best way possible.

To name a few of the best ones here; Trisara, Votoo, Irish Pub and Antique Bar .

Being a very touristy place in the town, it comes as no surprise to know that there are varieties of restaurants serving varieties of cuisines.

If you have any specific craving, here’s a list to help you out:

• La Dolce Vita Restro
• Fire and Ice (I especially like the pizza there)
• Reef Restaurant and Lounge Bar
• Roadhouse Café
• Bon Appetite Café
• Northfield Café
• Third Eye Bakeries
• Everest Bakery
• Purple Haze Rock Bar
• Funky Buddha

If you’ve molded yourself into veganism then you’ll really want to check out OR2K.

These are the places you’ll want to go. Treat yourself by taking your hungry mouth to one of these.

Do and don’t While Travelling Around Kathmandu City

• There will always be a necessity of carrying a mask with you. The pollution around Kathmandu is something to be careful of and the dusts act as a free make up. So wear a mask in hopes of not getting sick while travelling.
• The traffic around here is so crazy and you’ll probably encounter many violations of traffic rules. So be very careful and pay extra attention while walking or you can just book a cab.
• Nepal is still way behind when it comes to technology, so the Internet won’t work as fast as you’d expect. Slow internet is such a pet peeve. However if you’ve bought yourself a local SIM card then the cellular data will give you a little above the average performance.
• The main problem in Nepal is electricity blackout. Locally known as ‘Load shedding’ or ‘periodic electricity blackouts’, they are very frequent and last for hours. So you can either choose a hotel with 24 hours electricity provision or you can keep torchlight with you. It can even come in handy during later adventures.
• Nepal is a very safe travel destination even for solo travelers or even women. The records of theft that have been recorded had occurred in budget hotels among the tourists themselves. So you can relax and not be too weary all the time.
• If you like cycling, plan a ride out to the valley because the in-city is too congested and you won’t be able to enjoy to fullest.
• If you love hiking and are hiking around the Kathmandu valley, make sure to get comfortable hiking boots and good quality backpacking sleeping bag.
• People around here like to negotiate price for everything, so there’s no fixed price as such. You might face two-tier pricing, but if you negotiate well the deal can turn in your favor.
• If you are travelling in a cab, remember to negotiate the price beforehand. The cabs here do have a meter but they seldom use it.
• Also if you ever get to travel in bus DON’T sit on the front 4 seats. It isn’t so much of a big deal but they are reserved seats for those having trouble standing.

Travel Itineraries around Kathmandu

A. one-day itinerary.

One day can be a very short span, you got to make sure you make the most out of it. You can take a cab or if are good with maps then you can walk around the below itinerary.

• Swyambhunath
• Traditional lunch of Daal Baat Tarkari
• Back to thamel
• Thamel Chowk
• Thahity Chowk
• Indra Chowk (Don’t forget the Lassi treat)
• Hanuman Dhoka
• Kaalbhairab
• Kathmandu durbar square
• Himalayan Java

b. Two-days itinerary

Well in two days, you can cover a lot more than before. So here’s the itinerary:

• Pashupatinath Temple
• Boudhanath (Don’t forget to taste the famous Laphing )
• Kathesimbhu Stupa
• The heritage walk

c. Three-days itinerary

If you’re going to stay three days in Kathmandu, then with an extra day to spare, you can also visit the neighboring districts – Kirtipur, Lalitpur and Bhaktapur. They’re just as beautiful as Kathmandu. Some of the highlights are:

• Patan Durbar Square, Lalitpur
• Patan Dhoka, Lalitpur
• Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Bhaktapur
• 55 windows Temple, Bhaktapur
• Nagarkot, Bhaktapur
• Naagdaha, Kirtipur

You’ll get to experience something like never before. Nepal, especially the capital, Kathmandu is truly a blessed city.

To travel Nepal like a Nepali, you have to do everything in a Nepali style.

There can be things you wished you never had to experience like pollution and stuff but it shouldn’t be the reason to hold you back from exploring this place.

You will explore. To truly experience Nepal, you have to go out on a limb here.

And about language, most people in Kathmandu can speak English. That won’t be a problem.

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Kathmandu Travel Guide [Updated] A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Thamel and Beyond

• Post author: Elyse
• Post category: Nepal
• Post last modified: 20/09/2023
• Post comments: 13 Comments

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Home » Travel Guides » Nepal » Kathmandu Travel Guide [Updated] A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Thamel and Beyond

Since I first visited Nepal in 2009, it’s a place I’ve always felt a real connection to it. Not only for its intense natural beauty & adventurous opportunities but somehow there’s a calmness that radiates from the busy streets of Kathmandu. Plus, the warmth of the Nepalese people who’ve always made me feel as though I have a second home in Kathmandu. Keep reading for the ultimate (and updated) Kathmandu travel guide, including the best places to eat & sleep, things to do, and finding the best nightlife in Thamel.

Briefly, about me

Along with my best friend, Bianca, I’ve been to Nepal a total of 8 times. When we first visited Kathmandu as volunteers, we were placed at a boarding school for underprivileged children called Snowlands School . We were eager to spend time caring for the children & assisting the school in any way we could. It wasn’t long before I was in love with everything about this experience.  

The kids didn’t want anything from us other than our time and attention. Not once did I hear anyone complaining. I remember a time watching a group of boys playing soccer. The ball had a hole in it so it was slowly going flat. That didn’t stop them from enjoying themselves, they knew that was the only ball they had so instead of complaining or asking for a new one, they just got on with it and still had fun.  

Over the years I’ve seen many things change in Kathmandu (one of them is, thankfully, a lot less rubbish on the streets) and I have been lucky enough to meet so many people from all over the world.

I now work closely with an NGO called In Giving We Receive (IGWR). This charity is made up of a small group of Australian volunteers who work closely with local communities in Kathmandu. They ensure that 50+ children have safe & happy homes and also receive the education all children in the world deserve. Since 2011 I’ve been lucky enough to sponsor a boy named Sandesh, and this wouldn’t be possible without IGWR.

The Ultimate Kathmandu Travel Guide

Over the years, I’ve also had time to explore Nepal’s lively capital city. Finding the best things to do in Kathmandu, along with the best bars, restaurants and nightlife in Thamel.

Kathmandu can no doubt be frustrating at times, with the thick air pollution, nagging of street vendors, car horns and rubbish. But if you take a minute to look past all this, you will see that Kathmandu is an incredibly unique city. A spiritual hub with the kindest people, who will happily welcome you into their homes. And, a city steeped in captivating history, offering visitors an enchanting journey through ancient temples, centuries-old traditions, and a rich cultural heritage.

This Kathmandu travel guide will prove to you why any Nepal itinerary needs to allow for more than just a couple of days in the city. Beyond the immediate allure, Kathmandu’s intricate layers of culture, diverse neighbourhoods, and hidden gems promise a deeper and more immersive experience, making it clear that a mere couple of days just won’t do!

Arriving in Kathmandu

Nepal only has one international airport, so unless arriving by land, you’ll fly into Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. This airport is fairly small so easy to navigate and recently the arrivals hall had an upgrade so it’s not quite as basic as it once was.

It’s important to always check the latest government advice but generally speaking, most countries can get a visa on arrival for Nepal.  

On Arrival Visa Fee;

15 Days – 30 USD 30 Days – 50 USD 90 Days – 125 USD

From the moment you step out of the terminal building in Kathmandu, the city will hit you right in the face. The smells, sounds, hectic nature of the taxi drivers trying to get your business. And, of course, a few friendly street dogs running around. Don’t let this overwhelm you, Kathmandu is a lively city that means no harm.  

If you aren’t interested in haggling with taxi drivers straight after you land, perhaps pre-book an airport transfer to your hotel. But if you have Nepalese rupees on hand and are ready to haggle, a taxi from the airport to Thamel should cost between 600-800 rupees.  

Welcome to Thamel, the vibrant heart of Kathmandu that pulsates with energy and culture. Amidst the bustling streets and narrow alleys, you’ll find hotels, restaurants & cozy cafes. Plus, quirky shops selling intricately carved handicrafts and vibrant textiles. Thamel is a sensory playground! While walking through the narrow streets, alongside taxis, rickshaws, bikes, dogs & tourists, I somehow always feel completely at peace & relaxed. 

Then as day turns into night, Thamel transforms into a lively hub of entertainment, with live music spilling out from its charismatic bars and clubs.

Whether you’re seeking spiritual solace at an ancient temple, haggling for unique souvenirs, or simply soaking in the chaotic charm, Thamel is an adventure waiting to be embraced. I love losing myself in its intoxicating blend of tradition and modernity. While meeting locals who always have a story to tell and leave an indelible mark on a journey through Kathmandu.

The Best Things To Do In Kathmandu

No Kathmandu travel guide would be complete without these 10 sites;  

Pashupatinath Temple

This is a sacred Hindu temple located on the banks of the Bagmati River. It’s the oldest Hindu temple in Kathmandu. Here you’ll see amazing architecture and possibly witness the spiritual rituals of locals farewelling their loved ones. Cremations of Nepalese take place daily on the river’s ghats. It’s a very special place that you’ll want to take your time to experience. 

The entry fee for foreigners is 1,000 rupees and Pashupatinath is open every day.  

Boudhanath Stupa (aka Boudha)

Boudha is one of the largest stupas in the world and a very important place for Nepalese & Tibetan Buddhist communities in Kathmandu. During your visit experience the tranquillity of this massive stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore the vibrant shops and cafes that surround it.

Before you start shopping and picking a spot for lunch, walk around the stupa three times clockwise. Even amongst the crowds, this walk can feel like a meditation as you witness locals worshipping and admire the colourful prey flags flapping in the breeze.

When deciding where to eat there are countless options but try finding somewhere with rooftop seating and on a clear day you will even see the snow-covered Himalayas in the distance.

The entry fee for foreigners is only 400 rupees and Boudhanath Stupa is open every day.

Swayambhunath

Swayambhunath is more affectionately known as Monkey Temple, although these days there are more dogs than monkeys. The complex consisted of a stupa and a variety of shrines and temples.  

It’s located on a hilltop just on the outskirts of Kathmandu, so offers panoramic views of the city and a serene atmosphere. Swayambhunath is primarily Buddhist but it’s lovely to see a hint of Hinduism amongst it all. 

There are two ways to reach the iconic stupa, to climb the 365 steps, adorned with prayer flags and inhabited by many of the mischievous monkeys. Or, arriving from the back entrance and being greeted by 3 stunning golden Buddha statues and fewer stairs.  

The entry fee for foreigners is only 200 rupees and Swayambhunath is open every day.  

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Immerse yourself in the historical heart of Kathmandu by visiting Durbar Square. Where ancient palaces, temples, and courtyards showcase the city’s rich history and architecture.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site transports you back in time and tells tales of Nepal’s royal history. All while the bustling atmosphere around Durbar Square reflects the vibrant pulse of contemporary Kathmandu life.

However, the devastating earthquake of 2015 left its mark on this historical treasure. Though amazing efforts have been made to restore its former glory, signs of the earthquake’s impact are still visible today. I see this as a reminder of the city’s resilience and the ongoing work to preserve its cultural heritage.

The entry fee for a foreigner is 1,000 rupees and the same ticket can be used multiple times. Kathmandu Durbar Square is also open daily.  

Narayanhiti Palace Museum

On the doorstep of Thamel is the palace that formally served as the residence and primary workplace of the reigning monarch of the kingdom of Nepal. This meticulously preserved royal palace offers a captivating glimpse into Nepal’s regal history.

It’s an essential stop on your Kathmandu travel guide. The museum unveils opulent chambers, intriguing artifacts, and vivid stories that provide a window into the lives of the monarchy, and sets the scene of the devastating massacre that occurred in 2011 (you can still see the bullet holes in the walls).  

Narayanhiti Palace Museum entry fee is 1,000 rupees for foreigners and no cameras can be taken inside. The palace is open from 10:30 – 15:30 every day except Wednesday and on Tuesday it closes at 13:30.  

Garden of Dreams

Located only a few minutes walk from the palace are the most beautiful and peaceful gardens in Kathmandu. Stepping through the main gates is like being transported into a different world. The air is suddenly fresh and the noise from the busy streets can hardly be heard.

The Garden of Dreams is exceptionally well maintained and has much in common with formal European gardens. Classy pavilions, fountains, varied garden beds and a large pond in the middle. This is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Thamel.

The entry fee for foreigners is 400 rupees and Garden of Dreams is open daily from 9:00 – 18:00.

Hike to Jamchen Vijaya Stupa

Distinctively positioned amidst the serene hills of Kathmandu, the Jamchen Vijaya Stupa stands as a symbol of spiritual tranquillity. Embarking on the hike to this sacred site starts from Budhanilkantha Temple (which is also worth admiring) and the 1-hour hike will not only rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of the city below but also offers a profound connection to Nepal’s Buddhist heritage.

As you get closer to the stupa the colorful prayer flags wave in the breeze and guide you the rest of the way, creating a sense of peaceful anticipation. Upon reaching the stupa this magnificent sight unfolds before you, the whitewashed walls with intricate carvings and colourful offerings. Then having the stunning views of the Kathmandu Valley behind you lets you immerse yourself in both nature and the stupa’s spirituality.  

Entry to Jamchen Vijaya Stupa is free, the site is also open 7 days a week, from 10:00 – 17:00.  

Everest Mountain Flight

There’s certainly something magical about seeing the Himalayas from above. I don’t believe this Kathmandu travel guide would be complete without suggesting you embark on a truly awe-inspiring journey and booking a scenic Everest flight.

Elevate your adventure to new heights by taking to the skies above Kathmandu and witnessing the majestic Himalayas in all their splendour. And, one of the perks is, this can all be done from the comfort of your window seat, or ask the crew to visit the flight deck to get an even better look at the spectacular Mount Everest.  

These scenic flights depart from Kathmandu Airport and are for 1 hour.

From Kathmandu: 1-hour Panoramic Everest Flight ~ Get Your Guide.

On the outskirts of Kathmandu, Patan intrigues travellers with its captivating blend of history, art, and culture. This ancient city boasts its own Durbar Square and plenty of narrow alleyways lined with artisan workshops, where traditional craftsmanship thrives.  

The Patan Museum, a trove of cultural treasures, unveils artifacts that span centuries, offering a deeper insight into Nepal’s artistic heritage. And, the Golden Temple, which dates back to 1409 and is also Newari Buddhist Monestry. Whether you’d like to marvel at the harmonious blend of Hindu & Buddhist architecture, shop at local markets or immerse yourself in the vibrant local life, Patan is a great area to visit while staying in Kathmandu.

Nepali Cooking Class and Trying Local Food

To enhance this Kathmandu travel guide I need to point out how delicious the food is in Nepal and urge you to embark on a culinary adventure that tantalizes both your taste buds and cultural curiosity.

Booking a cooking class in Kathmandu offers an immersive journey into the heart of Nepali cuisine, allowing you to uncover the secrets of preparing traditional dishes like momos and dal bhat.

And, of course beyond the classroom, dive into the local food scene in Kathmandu where street stalls, cafes & restaurants entice with an array of aromatic flavours.

Kathmandu: Private Cooking Class with Transfers and Lunch ~ Get Your Guide.

Restaurants in Thamel

Thamel is the vibrant heart of Kathmandu and where most tourists will find themselves eating out. So, your Kathmandu travel guide wouldn’t be complete without indulging in the diverse offerings of Thamel’s restaurants.

From cozy cafes serving aromatic Nepali chai and mouthwatering momos to larger restaurants dishing out global flavours, Thamel caters to every palate.

The Thamel food scene is forever expanding and very rarely disappoints but I wanted to include a few of the best restaurants in Thamel, that have all stood the test of time!  

Electric Pagoda Bar & Cafe

This is by far my favourite restaurant in Thamel, not necessarily because of the food though. Electric Pagoda, tucked away behind the Kathmandu Guest House, offers the most beautiful and peaceful atmosphere.  

Sitting on the floor with plenty of cushions, a small table and chill-out beats playing in the background, I almost need to be dragged out I love it so much.  

Now this place has amazing food, it’s Israeli-run and serves vegetarian Middle Eastern dishes. But when planning to have a meal at OR2K, you may need to have a bit of time up your sleeve because the service can be rather slow!  

But the food is delicious and like Electric Pagoda the chilled-out vibes will have you feeling very relaxed.

Fire and Ice Pizzeria

Fire and Ice open its doors in Kathmandu way back in 1995, and is still serving up fresh salads, wood fire Pizzas and heaps more authentic Italian dishes.  

This may be one of the most expensive restaurants in Kathmandu (not compared to Australian prices but by Nepal standards, it’s expensive), but is extremely popular with tourists, mountaineers and locals so booking a table ahead of time is essential.  

Places Restaurant and Bar

This fully vegetarian restaurant is generally filled with ex-pats & tourists and located in the centre of Thamel. Not only serving fresh and healthy meals, but the comfortable floor cushions, low lighting and welcoming atmosphere makes this the perfect place to start a night out.

Places also regularly host live music and if major sporting events are on, you can be sure they’ll have it on the big screen.  

Anatolia is a Halal restaurant and is perfect if you want to share a number of dishes with friends. They serve a large variety of Turkish & Indian cuisine and being located upstairs gives you relaxing views of the streets below.  

Kathmandu Nightlife

As the sun sets over this enchanting city, Kathmandu’s nightlife comes alive, and nowhere is this more vibrant than Thamel. This popular tourist hub transforms into a lively playground for night owls and wanderers seeking after-hours adventures.

This Kathmandu travel guide wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the eclectic nightlife of Thamel. When I first started travelling to Nepal, venues would pretty much shut up shop by midnight, but that has all changed now!

The narrow streets are illuminated with neon lights, and rhythmic sounds pulse through the streets. Today there are so many bars, live music venues, and energetic clubs to choose from. Whether you’re mingling with fellow travellers over cocktails, enjoying the beat of traditional Nepali tunes, or simply soaking in the lively ambience, Thamel’s nightlife promises an unforgettable night out.  

The best way to experience Thamel’s nightlife scene is by hitting the streets to see & hear where the best venues will be that night.

So, I don’t want to tell you exactly where you should go, but here are a few of my favourites; Maya Bar to start the night off with 2-for-1 cocktails. Tom & Jerry’s (especially if you’re up for a game of pool) Sam’s Bar, Reggae Bar, Purple Haze, L.O.D and Senate Club. Then to end your night, if the mood is ‘chilled lounge vibes’ try Buddha Bar. Or if more alcohol and dancing are required, then head to Fire Club.  

Accommodation in Kathmandu

Kathmandu offers a diverse range of accommodations that cater to every traveller’s preferences and budgets. From luxurious boutique hotels that offer traditional Nepali charm to cozy guesthouses tucked away in vibrant alleyways.  

All over Thamel, there is a multitude of guesthouses, hostels, and hotels that await, ensuring easy access to the best sites in Kathmandu. And, if you head straight into Thamel without having pre-booked accommodation booked, don’t worry. Thamel always has something available, and for budget travellers last-minute rooms can be picked up for as little as 10 USD a night.

For a more serene escape, the outskirts of Kathmandu boast stunning resorts, allowing you to unwind amidst breathtaking mountain views.

I’ve always spent the majority of my time in Nepal staying in homestays . This is the perfect option for those who prefer to “live like a local”. Kathmandu locals rent out rooms in their homes for around 8 USD per night and this price will usually include breakfast and dinner. It’s a wonderful opportunity to savour local flavours and get a taste of what home-cooked Dal Bhat is all about!

No matter where you choose to stay, Kathmandu’s accommodations promise an unforgettable fusion of comfort and cultural immersion.

Hotel Nana (very budget but amazing location in Thamel)

Kathmandu Guest House by KGH Group (great rates considering how good the location in Thamel is and the garden/restaurant area is stunning)

Green Valley Resort (on the outskirts of Kathmandu)

More Tips on Traveling in Kathmandu, Nepal

Do you want more travel tips on visiting Nepal’s capital city? Including transport in Kathmandu & when is the best time to visit Nepal.  

Click here for my in-depth travel guide on visiting Nepal  

Kathmandu Travel Guide ~ In Conclusion  

Nowhere in the world has filled my soul with more good energy or put things into perspective than Nepal has. In a country that’s been through many hard times & heartache, the Nepalese people still manage to find sunshine every day and work hard not just to help themselves but all those around them. Kathmandu is at the centre of this and every Nepal itinerary needs to allow time to explore this captivating city.  

In this Kathmandu travel guide, I have included the best things to do in Kathmandu, nightlife and the most worthy restaurants to enjoy a meal. Plus heaps more travel tips for visiting Nepal.

If you have any further questions or need more information, please comment below and I will gladly get back to you.

Thanks for reading,

Happy Travels .

If you found this information helpful, please consider booking your trip via my  affiliate links . This won’t be at any extra cost to you and will help fund this blog, thank you.

Up Next –  Find the best places to visit, just outside the Valley. The Best Day Trips And Weekend Getaways From Kathmandu

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Booking Accommodation  

Then when it comes to booking accommodation; if you’re after a hostel the best place to search is HostelWorld.

Or, if you’d prefer a hotel or resort,  Booking.com or Agoda  are two of the best sites out there, they consistently return cheap rates.

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Elyse is the author & content creator behind A World To Live. After traveling to over 40 countries, she has a passion for discovering new places. Elyse is a money-conscious traveller who loves writing independent travel guides to help her readers get the most out of their travels.

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This post has 13 comments.

Love it Elyse and Bianca, can you please mention IGWR’s website and apartment details for us…

Fantastic read Elyse, well done. Great info and tips. Hope you get a big following.

Thanks so much Peter 😊

and thanks Lia, if you click on the wording In Giving We Receive, it’ll open the website in a new tab. Can you send me the link to where the apartment is listed?

Wonderful blog! Captures Nepal beautifully. Xx

Thank you so much Gaye 🙂

Very well detailed Elyse. Nepal is most certainly “more” than just mountains and trekking… ^-^

Thanks Mo, I have another two coming haha

There’s indeed a lot to do in Kathmandu/ How many days would you recommend?

Yeah for sure, a minimum of 4 or 5 days, but you could definitely spend longer there

Great guide. I hope to visit Nepal next year, and this will serve as a good introduction!

Somehow Nepal has been eluding me… I will not give up though. This article seems God-sent indicating I must plan soon. Great useful and helpful travel guide. Loved those souvenirs, hope I can pick them up some at least.

I visited Nepal in 2012 when I hiked to Everest base camp and I absolutely loved Kathmandu. I loved Boudhanath Stupa and completely agree that it felt meditative walking around it. I really hope to go back soon, so will be saving this guide for when I do. There’s so much I haven’t seen yet! I’d definitely love to take a cooking class. Thanks for the inspiration.

I’d love to get to visit here someday–it’d be awesome to get to check out the Garden of Dreams + to take a Nepali cooking class!

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Home » Asia » Nepal » Kathmandu

32 BEST Places to Visit in Kathmandu (2024)

People who think of visiting Kathmandu usually think of the Himalayas and soaring mountain views. And in fact, this city is one of the most popular places to access the Himalayas and all the outdoor activities they offer. It’s also a vibrant, culturally fascinating city, and a trip to Kathmandu is always memorable.

People who first arrive in Kathmandu often find themselves underwhelmed. The city is famously polluted and the mountain views you probably imagined are far in its past. However, this doesn’t mean that there aren’t other amazing places to visit in Kathmandu and just outside of it. And the busy, vibrant culture is well worth exploring and trying to understand as well, not to mention the great food!

So, if you’re ready to explore everything this city has to offer, here’s our expert’s guide to the best Kathmandu itinerary possible.

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighborhood in Kathmandu:

These are the best places to visit in kathmandu, faq on the best places to visit in kathmandu.

Around Chhetrapati

This is the small neighborhood immediately south of the main tourist area of Thamel, but so close you can touch it!

• Go and eat your fill at the Chhetrapati Party Palace. What a name!
• Temple tour – find as many as you can in a set period of time.
• Check out the Chittadhar Hridaya Memorial Museum to learn a bit about your surroundings.

In order to REALLY enjoy the contents of the list below, you’re going to need accommodation of epic proportions. Whether that’s sharing space in a hostel or playing house in an Airbnb, we’ve got the low-down on where to stay in Kathmandu . Now, onto the good stuff…

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#1 – Durbar Square – A great place to see in Kathmandu if you love architecture

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• This area was hit hard by the earthquakes of 2015, so expect ongoing renovations.
• It can get crowded in this area, so arrive early to avoid the rush.

Why it’s so awesome: This area was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979 and was where the kings of the city were once crowned. Today, it remains the heart of the city and of Kathmandu’s traditional heart. It also holds some of the oldest and most architecturally significant buildings in the city. No backpacking trip to Kathmandu is complete without a visit.

What to do there: When you explore this area, you should expect lots of construction. The area was badly hit in the 2015 earthquake and some of its most amazing buildings needed to be rebuilt or re-supported. Make sure that you check out Taleju temple, the House of the Living Goddess and Basantapur tower, all of which were damaged by the earthquake but are still standing. Also, take a picture with one of the colorful Sadu, but you will have to give them money afterwards.

#2 – Kophan Monastery

• A beautiful building on the outskirts of town where you can meditate or just explore another facet of the local culture.

Why it’s so awesome: This monastery is beautiful and it’s an easy trip from the center of the city. You can get a taxi there easily and once you’re at the monastery, you’ll be in the center of a famously tranquil setting. You can also take part in the morning meditation classes or do a course.

What to do there: If you’re interested in trying meditation or have been doing it a while and want to get re-inspired, then book in a class at this monastery. The serene settings are the perfect place to go inwards and learn more about this ancient practice. You can get a taxi to the monastery, but there are also tours that will take you out there. So, if you don’t feel like going through the hassle of getting a taxi and want to learn more about the monastery while you’re there, try one of the many tour options.

#3 – The Garden of Dreams – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in Kathmandu

• If you get sick of the busyness when you’re visiting Kathmandu, this is the best place to rest and revitalize.
• This garden contains flora and fauna from all over the world and is surprisingly well maintained.

Why it’s so awesome: Kathmandu is an incredibly hectic and busy city and sometimes you just need some time away from it. You can escape to this garden, which is right in the middle of the Thamel and provides a welcome oasis. This garden was built in the 20th century and is known as the garden of six senses. You will have to pay a small entry fee, but it’s worth it to get a break from the city.

What to do there: This is one of the mos t beautiful destinations in Nepal , so take a book and a snack and find a quiet area. There’s also a café on site if you forget to bring your own snacks, so you can sit and have a coffee and enjoy having nature all around you.

#4 – Pashupatinath Temple

• This is a working temple that performs cremations and you may see dead bodies there, so avoid this temple if you’re sensitive or have children with you.
• This is one of the most famous attractions in Kathmandu amongst locals and tourists.

Why it’s so awesome: This temple is located on the riverbanks and close to the airport and it’s a working temple. Every day, people are cremated at this location and you’ll also see people mourning in the public square. When you visit this location, you’ll get a unique and essential view of the local culture and its customs. So, don’t let any fears drive you away and make sure that you experience this side of Kathmandu.

What to do there: Avoid the morning and early afternoon if you’re concerned about seeing a dead body because that’s when they hold their cremations. Pashupatinath Temple is open from 4am to 9am and it will take you about an hour to experience it. If you only want to see the temple, get a guide so that you can get an insider’s view of the landmark building and its place in the city’s daily life.

#5 – Langtang National Park – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Kathmandu

• This is the closest national park to Kathmandu and was established in 1976.
• If you aren’t up for a big hike but still want to see the Himalayas, you’ll be able to do it from this park.

Why it’s so awesome: There are several national parks in Nepal and this is the closest to Kathmandu. The Himalayas are within clear view of the park, which also has a number of popular treks so you can enjoy the outdoors and the mountains. After all, aren’t these features exactly what people travel to Kathmandu to see?

What to do there: People usually visit Kathmandu for the access to the Himalayas so you must visit this park while you’re in the city. Get a good view of the Himalayas without the pollution of the city clouding and try one of the park’s hikes. There are several popular treks including Langtang Valley and Gosaikunda lake. Just be aware that you may experience altitude sickness and will need to stay in a group and carry provisions with you.

#6 – Thamel – A great place in Kathmandu if you love to shop!

• The best souvenir shopping in the city is in this area.
• Make sure you get a receipt and take it with you when you leave the country, as they may ask you for it at the airport.

Why it’s so awesome: Whether trekking is on your Kathmandu itinerary or if you’re just there to explore the city, this is the place to go for souvenirs and supplies. Thamel is filled with markets and shops that sell everything from trekking gear to singing bowls, and you could easily spend a day wandering its streets and enjoying the spectacle.

What to do there: If you’re looking for something fun to take home then you’ll find it in this area. It’s also a popular spot to visit if you want to pick up some supplies for trekking. And it’s probably cheaper to buy your rucksacks, clothing, poles, and shoes in this area than it would be back home, so keep that in mind! And if you want some really unique souvenirs, keep your eyes open for gifts such as paper or cards made of elephant dung or singing bowls.

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#7 – Champa Devi Hiking Trail

• An easy hike that will allow you to explore a small part of the Himalayas without breaking the bank or risking your life.
• This is a great day hike from the city.

Why it’s so awesome: If you like the idea of mountains more than the physical exertion, then you should try the Champa Devi Hiking Trail. Champa Devi is a hill to the south of Kathmandu Valley and it offers a 3-hour incline walk with views of the valley and the Western Himalayan Ranges.

What to do there: If you aren’t interested in the long hikes or don’t have the money, this is a good place to get a taste of it. You’ll walk for 3 hours up the mountain before coming to a Hindu and Buddhist shrine at the top. The elevation is only 2,285m and you’ll get some amazing views of the ranges, so make sure you take your camera with you.

#8 – Swayambhunath Temple

• The oldest temple of its kind in Nepal.
• If you like monkeys, then you’ll be spoiled for cute sights here are hundreds of monkeys live at this temple.

Why it’s so awesome: This is one of the most popular landmarks in Kathmandu and it’s mostly populated by monkeys! The monkeys are considered holy at this temple because they were supposedly created from the head lice of the Buddhist deity Manjushri. But whatever you believe, it’s adorable to see them sitting all over the steps and building. The temple is also culturally significant. It was founded in the 5th century and survived the 2015 earthquake mostly intact.

What to do there: It’s a long and tiring trek up to this temple. You’ll have to walk up 365 steps, and there are no elevators, so you’ll need to be in reasonable physical condition. Once you’re there, it’s probably best to take a tour guided by one of the temple monks. They’ll be able to give you an insider’s view of the history and significance of the site and you’ll be able to participant in ceremonies as well.

#9 – Bungmati Village

• This village is located in the south of Kathmandu and makes for a great day trip.
• The 2015 earthquake hit this village hard, so it needs the help and money that tourism brings in.

Why it’s so awesome: If you want to see a more traditional way of life then you need to get out of the city. Bungmati is a small village that’s been virtually untouched by modern development and the villagers live very traditionally and simply. The village dates back to the 6th century and is believed to be the birthplace of the rain god Rato Mahhendranath.

What to do there: You can take a day trip from the city to this village as well as another that’s close by. Make sure you spend some time enjoying and perhaps even buying wood carvings or sculpture at the local workshops. The locals have been practising these crafts for generations and supporting these traditional arts is highly beneficial.

#10 – Boudhanath – One of the most religious places to see in Kathmandu

• The largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal.
• This stupa is an important center of Tibetan Buddhism and culture and you’ll find locals praying and chanting there at almost all hours of the day.

Why it’s so awesome: This is the largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so it’s definitely worth adding to your Kathmandu itinerary. It’s also one of the most important religious landmarks in Kathmandu and you can’t start to understand the culture without visiting this site.

What to do there: If you go early in the morning or late in the evening then you’ll be able to avoid the tour groups and get a more authentic experience. At these times of day, prayers are offered and the Tibetan community comes out to walk around the stupa, spin prayer wheels, and offer chants. If you have time, make sure you visit one of the many monasteries called gompas around the stupa. They’re decorated with vibrant murals and are located within a short walk from Boudhanath.

#11 – Patan – A must visit place to visit in Kathmandu on the weekend!

• Patan is 5km south of the capital and is known as Lalitpur or the City of Beauty.
• This is the oldest town in the valley with amazing temples and palaces.

Why it’s so awesome: Patan is known as the City of Beauty and when you spend some time there you’ll understand why. The Newari Architecture includes painstaking details and fine work, which makes the wood and stone carvings in the temples and palaces absolutely stunning.

What to do there: You could spend a whole day exploring this city and taking in the architecture, temples, and palaces. It’s also an easy drive from Kathmandu and is much less busy than the major city, which is why you should spend some time there if you want a break from the city.

#12 – Everest Base Camp

• This base camp is why people really travel to Kathmandu.
• It’s a long trek from Kathmandu to the Everest Base Camp, so make sure that you have the time to make the most of the experience.

Why it’s so awesome: You don’t need anyone to tell you why you should go to Everest. It’s the highest point in the world and a physical challenge that has inspired numerous stories and legends. Even if you have absolutely no intention of actually trying to climb the mountain, you can trek to Everest base camp and get a good taste of the experience without most of the physical dangers.

What to do there: There are numerous ways to get to the Everest base camp from Kathmandu. You can fly to the Lukla airport and walk a couple of days from there to the Sherpa capital. From there, you need to wait a few days to adjust to the altitude before you start the seven-day walk to the Base Camp.

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#13 – Chhauni Museum

• A huge museum located in one of the most beautiful monasteries in the world.
• This is a Kathmandu must see.

Why it’s so awesome: This national museum is close to Swayambhunath and it’s also located in a stunningly beautiful venue. The treasures inside of it are just as incredible, which is why you absolutely must visit this museum while you’re in the city.

What to do there: You’ll find a range of exhibits in this museum. The Judda Art Gallery is particularly popular because it’s home to a range of beautiful stone, terracotta and metal statues of Nepali deities. You should also spend some time looking at the famous cloth paintings as well as the 1800-year-old statue of Jayaraman which was discovered in 1992. The Buddhist Art Gallery section is amazing as well, so make sure you take the time to explore everything this museum has to offer.

#14 – Ashok Binayak Temple – Possibly one of the most important places to visit in Kathmandu

• This is a shrine to Lord Ganesha, one of the most loved gods in the city.
• This is one of the best places to visit in Kathmandu if you want to understand more about the city’s religion and culture.

Why it’s so awesome: Located in the center of temple rubble at the top of Maru Tole, this shrine is tiny and golden and is one of the most important religious sites in the city. That’s why it’s a Kathmandu must-see. Thousands of locals and tourists visit every, so make sure that you don’t miss out.

What to do there: It obviously doesn’t take long to explore this site as it’s a small shrine. Make sure that you’re respectful while you’re there, remembering that the locals still worship there. The temple also has a self-serve tika dispenser and the bells ring regularly, so make sure you stay long enough and partake in the whole experience.

#15 – Asan

• One of the best places to visit in Kathmandu if you enjoy shopping!
• You’ll find almost anything here you could want to buy, own, or take home with you.

Why it’s so awesome: This is one of the most popular areas in Kathmandu for travelers because it’s so bright and colorful. The streets converge in this area and the colors are bright and enticing. The stalls also cell an incredibly wide range of different goods and souvenirs, everything you could want as a traveler.

What to do there: This is the perfect place to do some people watching, so set aside an afternoon and settle down to watch the world go buy. You should also bring your wallet along and see if you can grab some bargains to take back home with you. The market sells everything from electronics to food, textiles and bulllions, so there will definitely be something you need at this market!

#16 – Phulchowki

• A stunning mountain peak that surrounds the valley of Kathmandu.
• The mountain is basically a stunning garden that’s filled with flowers and looks amazing in photographs.

Why it’s so awesome: This mountain peak surrounds Kathmandu and is an easy 4 hour trip from the center of the city. It’s a great place to enjoy some easy trekking without having to travel far from the city and the roads are well kept and suitable if you have a reasonable level of fitness.

What to do there: The flowers on this mountain are amazing and include wild roses, iris, jasmine and native flowers. To enjoy them all, you need to explore and take your time trekking through the trails. This area is well known for its resorts and it’s a peaceful, natural area that makes for an easy, short hike.

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#17 – Casino Royale – Great place to visit in Kathmandu for couples!

• This is your chance to dress up and have a luxurious night.
• If you enjoy casinos, then this is a Kathmandu must do!

Why it’s so awesome: Even if you’re in Kathmandu for the trekking, it’s still nice to get dressed up and have an elegant night out. The Casino Royale is located in the former Rana Palace at the Yak and Yeti Hotel. The casino has gambling, card games and an amazing dinner buffet, which is why it’s popular amongst tourists and locals alike.

What to do there: Make sure you dress up in your best clothes, grab your friends or partner, and get ready for a sumptuous night out. Try a few of the tables, see if you can win some travel money on the slot machines, and sit down for a delicious buffet dinner. This is one of the hotspots in Kathmandu for socializing, so make sure you take advantage of the chance to have a good chat.

#18 – Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park

• A park located at the northern part of Kathmandu.
• This park was only recently upgraded to national park status so that the valley’s main water source could be protected.

Why it’s so awesome: This park protects 177 species of birds and a variety of rare orchids. The sprawling forests are one of the last areas of primary woodland in the valley and there are monkeys, leopards, and bears in the national park as well.

What to do there: This is a popular hiking spot, so if you’re looking to get even more trekking done during your trip to Kathmandu then this is your chance. The flora and fauna in this area are also famously unique, so make sure you take the time to appreciate it and take a few photos as well.

#19 – Utse Restaurant

• One of the longest-running restaurants in Nepal.
• This is one of the best places to visit in the city for Tibetan food.

Why it’s so awesome: This restaurant is located in the hotel of the same name and was first established in 1971. That serves as proof of the quality of the food, so if you want some authentic Tibetan dishes, then you need to have a meal at this restaurant.

What to do there: There are a variety of interesting, tasty, and unique dishes that you can try at this restaurant. Drink authentic butter tea or try the hot millet beer with your meal and make sure you have dessert as well. The restaurant serves some delicious options such as dhay-shi, which is curd, sweet rice, and raisins.

#20 – Taudaha Lake – A nice quiet place to see in Kathmandu

• A small lake with lots of mythology surrounding it.
• If you want to enjoy a bit of nature and see some animals, then this is the place to do it.

Why it’s so awesome: If you’re ready to get off the beaten track when you travel to Kathmandu, then this is the place to do it. The lake is located in Kathmandu’s outskirts and according to legends was once drained by a mythical character, leaving the half snake, half-human inhabitants homeless. An underground lake was built in response, which made the former inhabitants much happier and supposedly accounts for the tranquillity of this Kathmandu landmark.

What to do there: There is a lot to do at this lake if you enjoy nature and animals. The birdwatching is great because of the migratory species that visit the lake and it’s also a great place to sit and relax in natural surroundings.

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#21 – Chabahil Stupa – One of the most underrated places to see in Kathmandu

• This stupa is quieter than some of the other options, so you’ll be able to explore in peace.

Why it’s so awesome: When you visit stupas in Kathmandu, you’ll end up fighting with the crowds to find a good spot. But this stupa gets fewer visitors, so you’ll be able to enjoy your visit and really take in the surroundings in peace and quiet.

What to do there: This is one of the most interesting points of interest in Kathmandu and it’s worth exploring during your trip. Luckily, this stupa wasn’t damaged during the 2015 earthquakes, so you’ll be able to see it in all its glory.

#22 – Narayanhiti Palace

• This is one of the most important places in Kathmandu’s history.
• If you enjoy learning more about the history of the places you visit, then you’ll enjoy exploring this site.

Why it’s so awesome: Over the years, Nepal has gone through a lot of changes and one of the biggest ones was the change from a monarchy to a democracy. This palace is a sign of this history. It’s located close to Thamel to the east of the Kaiser Mahal and was once home to the monarchs of Nepal. This long history makes it irresistible to tourists and to history buffs.

What to do there: If you want to understand Nepal, then you need to know about the incredible changes that the country has gone through over the years. And this is the place to learn about those changes. So, explore the palace and make sure that you take a look at the temple of Lord Vishnu, which is located opposite.

#23 – Hanuman Dhoka – One of Kathmandu’s coolest historical sites!

• This is an amazing collection of ancient monuments, some of them dating back to the 16th century.
• This is one of the most famous places in Kathmandu if you’re interested in exploring the past.

Why it’s so awesome: This area was once the royal palace of Malla kings and the Shah dynasty and consists of several monuments and buildings. Different buildings are dedicated to different gods and the entire complex is derived from the idol of Lord Hanuman which stands near the entrance.

What to do there: You’ll need a couple of hours to explore this complex because there are a lot of buildings that are worth some attention. Make sure that you explore Nasal Chowk, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It was the location of the crowning of King Birendra Bir Bikram Shah in 1975. You should also check out the Mul Chok, which is to Goddess Taleju Bhawani.

#24 – The Last Resort – A very cool place in Kathmandu to go for a day

• This location is a lovely three-hour drive from Kathmandu with scenic views along the way.
• It’s also the best place to visit in Kathmandu for adventure sports.

Why it’s so awesome: This resort is perched on top of a gorge of the Bhote Kosi River which is close to the Tibetan border. It’s surroundings by lush forests and jungles and offers something for everyone, no matter what you’re looking for. You can enjoy the plunge pool or just relax in the middle of all that stunning nature!

What to do there: This is the perfect place to get away from the city and relax with some sports, exercise, or just a few hours by the pool! Relax in a hammock and read a book, spend some time in the plunge pool, or just take in the views of the jungle with your camera in hand. If you’re looking for something more exciting, the resort offers a range of adventure activities like bungee jumping and white-water rafting. And if you get hungry, make sure that you check out the delicious foods served in the dining hall or the Karma Bar.

#25 – The Royal Botanical Gardens

• This is the city’s national botanical garden and is filled with a range of native flora and orchids.
• It’s located at the base of Phulchowki hill, so it’s easy to find if you need a break from the city.

Why it’s so awesome: When you’re visiting Kathmandu, you’ll probably need a few breaks from the busyness of the city. And the best place to have a break is in a garden. This botanical garden is surrounded by evergreen forests and includes indigenous plants, trees, lilies, ferns, medicinal plants and orchids all on display for you to enjoy.

What to do there: This is a lovely serene place to visit and if you’re interested in botany, then it will allow you to learn all about the plants in the region. The medicinal plants are particularly interesting, and of course, there are a range of orchids for you to enjoy as well.

#26 – The White Monastery

• This monastery is otherwise known as Seto Gomba or the Amitabha Monastery.
• Watching the sunset and sunrise at this spot is a special treat.

Why it’s so awesome: You can see the whole of the Kathmandu Valley from this site and it has a soothing atmosphere that draws in travelers from all walks of life. But this monastery isn’t only aesthetically appealing, it also has a strong religious significance to the local people which adds to the value of visiting this site. The architecture too is magnificent, and the building includes a range of statues, paintings, and murals that depict the life and teachings of Gautama Buddha.

What to do there: The best time to visit this monastery is at night or early morning so you can watch the sunset or sunrise over the Kathmandu Valley. The scenery around the monastery is amazing because of the bright green terrain, so you’ll definitely want to take your camera with you.

#27 – Kaiser Library – A great place to visit in Kathmandu if you are alone/traveling solo

• This library contains over 45,000 books that were once in the collection of the Field Marshal Kaiser Shumsher Rana.
• The books cover a range of subjects from history to philosophy and art.

Why it’s so awesome: If you enjoy libraries, then you must explore this prime example. Established in 1969, the library took a major hit during the 2015 earthquake, though the lower floor has been restored and reopened to the public. Unfortunately, the grandeur of the site was mostly lost in the restoration, but the books are still worth exploring.

What to do there: This is one of the most popular attractions in Kathmandu because of the range of artifacts and books it contains. At the moment, most of these books and artifacts are stacked haphazardly, but you can still find some gems if you look. You can also borrow a book from the library if you need something to read while you’re in the city. A great place to visit in the library is the outside area, which include a beautiful garden that’s filled with fountains, pavilions, a lotus pool and verandas.

#28 – Siddhartha Art Gallery

• When you travel, you should always support the local craftsmen where possible, and this art gallery is the perfect place to do that!
• This is a Kathmandu must-see for art lovers!

Why it’s so awesome: This art gallery contains a wide range of contemporary Nepali art and was established to give local artists a place to display their work. The gallery has been performing this service for the last 20 years and it also provides a place to have artwork evaluated and restored.

What to do there: The work that this art gallery is doing is worth supporting, so make sure that you spend some time there. When you explore the artwork in this gallery, it will give you a unique window into the art culture of Nepal and Kathmandu, so make sure you take the opportunity to get to know this facet of the local culture.

#29 – Changu Narayan

• The oldest working temple in Kathmandu.
• This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is surrounded by ancient carvings and statues.

Why it’s so awesome: The complex at this site is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and there are seven groups of monuments and buildings in the area. The temple complex includes shrines to Vishnu, Lord Shiva, Ashta Matrika, Kileshwor, Krishna and Chhinnamasta. It’s the oldest complex in the Kathmandu Valley and one of the oldest in Nepal, which is why it must be on your Kathmandu itinerary.

What to do there: This is a working temple complex so it’s important that you’re respectful when you visit it. The carvings throughout the temple complex and the statues surrounding it are some of the best and most beautiful you’ll see in Kathmandu, so make sure you take the time to appreciate them. The oldest statue dates back to the Licchavi era between 400 and 750 and the oldest stone inscription in the Kathmandu Valley is also located near them. It’s a story etched in 464 of a king convincing his mother not to commit suicide after the death of her husband.

#30 – The Toothache Tree – Quite the quirky place in Kathmandu!

• If you have a toothache, then this tree could help you!
• This gnarled tree stump is located at an intersection just past Thahiti Tole and is used by the locals to beg for toothache relief from the gods.

Why it’s so awesome: If you don’t know what you’re looking at, you might wonder what this Kathmandu attraction actually is. It’s a gnarled thing that’s covered in nailed on coins that the locals have put there as an offering to the god of sore teeth. It’s said to be a cutting from a legendary tree known as Bangemudha and is located right in the center of the dental district.

What to do there: If you have a toothache, then it can’t hurt to follow local customs and nail a coin to the tree as an offering to Vaishya Dev, the Newar god of the toothache. This tree stump looks great in photos too, because it’s covered in so many coins that you can’t see the wood anymore!

#31 – Kakani – A must visit place to visit in Kathmandu on the weekend!

• This is where the locals go on day trips.
• You can get some amazing views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Ganesh Himal ranges from this spot.

Why it’s so awesome: Kakani is an old hill station and the home of the Tamang ethnic group. It was once the chosen summer retreat of diplomats from the British Embassy and is a peaceful parkland area where the locals go when they need a day away from the city.

What to do there: When you need a nice, peaceful break, this is where you’ll find it. On Saturdays, the site is filled with picnickers, so make sure you choose another day to visit if you can so you can enjoy the peace and quiet without the crowds. You should also spend some time at the Thai Memorial Park, which commemorates the 113 victims of the 1992 Thai Airlines crash.

#32 – Chitwan National Park

• This park is 158km from Kathmandu and will give you the chance to actually get up close with some of Nepal’s wild animals.
• Lots of different types of animals live in this park including reptiles, mammals, birds, and water animals.

Why it’s so awesome: if you’ve ever wanted to see rhinos and Bengal tigers walking around free in the wild then this is your chance! It’s also your chance to see an amazing range of trees and plants, some of which you wouldn’t find anywhere else.

What to do there: You can take a safari to this park, which will give you the best chance of seeing some animals in the wild. If you enjoy bird watching, then you will need to arrive early as the birds prefer the early mornings. You should also do some nature walks while you’re in the area, as there’s a wide variety of flora, each of which have their own history and appeal.

Get insured for your trip to Kathmandu!

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Kathmandu

What are some great places to visit in Kathmandu for couples?

Take a romantic stroll around the beautiful Garden of Dreams. Escape the hectic city and take time to enjoy nature.

What are some fun things to do in Kathmandu with kids?

Get out of the city and see some incredible wildlife in person at the Chitwan National Park.

What are the best free things to do in Kathmandu?

If you want to experience a taste of the Himalayas on an easy walk close to the city, head for Champa Devi Hiking Trail for some great views.

What is the most unique thing to do in Kathmandu?

Visit the Pashupatinath Temple and see local cremation ceremonies, it’s not for the faint hearted but it’s a unique way to see the local culture.

Final Thoughts on the Coolest Places to Visit in Kathmandu

When you visit Kathmandu, you’ll have access to some of the most remote and amazing natural landscapes on the planet. But you’ll also be in a city that’s busy, noisy, and famously polluted. Don’t let this put you off though, because there is a wide range of amazing places to visit in Kathmandu for great food, a cultural experience, or amazing shopping. So, take a few large steps outside of your comfort zone and explore everything this city has to offer with our easy guide to the attractions and landmarks that are worth your time.

Suzanne Borders

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Ultimate Kathmandu Travel Tips – Best Things To See and Do

Nepal is a vibrant country between Tibet and India in South Asia. After spending four amazing days in the capital of Kathmandu en route to a 7-day Bhutan trip , I am sharing my top Kathmandu travel tips in this article.

What is the best time to travel to Kathmandu, Nepal?

Late September to December are generally known as the best time to visit Kathmandu because the weather is dry and suitable for exploration and trekking. During this time, visitors also have superb views of the many glaciers and mountains nearby and many local festivals give tourists the opportunity to dive deep into local Nepali culture.

One of the biggest festivals in Nepal in autumn is Nepal’s Festival  of  Lights which lasts 10 days and celebrates the relationship between animals and people.

Air travel to Kathmandu, Nepal

Kathmandu’s airport is called Tribhuvan International Airport and is about 5 kilometers (3.1 mi) from the city center of Kathmandu. This is currently the only international airport in Nepal with one domestic and one international terminal. The airport serves as a hub for several Nepalese airlines and over 30 international airlines connecting Nepal to destinations in Asia and the Middle East.

The international terminal is relatively small with only 5 gates. Commonly, information about gate numbers and boarding times appear on a screen between the terminals. It happened to me twice that my gate was announced at the time of boarding – so don’t be alarmed!

How to get a Nepal travel visa at Kathmandu airport?

Kathmandu travel tips.

Everyone except Indian citizens require a visa to enter Nepal. However, the process of obtaining a tourist visa for Nepal couldn’t be easier. You can simply get a visa on arrival at Kathmandu airport.

You can get tourist visas for US$25, for 15 days, US$40 for 30 days and US$100 for 90 days. They can only be granted for a maximum of 150 days in each 12 month period.

All tourist visas are issues as “multiple entry” type visas allowing you to enter and exit Nepal during the period of validity.

When paying for your visa, you can pay in US dollars, euros, Pound sterling and Australian dollars.

When I did my own research about the visa on arrival for Nepal I found sources that said you also need one or two passport-sized photos – but I did not need those at Kathmandu airport.

Kathmandu Solo Female Travel

I s it safe to travel to kathmandu .

Before traveling to Nepal by myself, I also did a bit of research to find out what’s it like to travel around Kathmandu alone as a female. As a main base for backpacking, Kathmandu is relatively safe for all types of travelers. Of course, you should always stay aware of your surroundings and not wander into dark parts of town late at night.

I also chose to stay at a highly rated hotel near the Thamel area called Kantipur Temple House . The staff at the hotel were very helpful and attentive so that I always felt safe when staying in Kathmandu.

Best Place to Stay in Kathmandu

There are a few different areas to stay in Kathmandu, each with their own pros and cons. The Thamel area is ideal for first-time travelers to Kathmandu – and it’s also where I chose to stay.

Shangri-La Kathmandu

If you’re looking for a luxury resort to stay at during your time in Kathmandu, the Shangri-La Kathmandu is the perfect destination. Many guests treat themselves to the first-class service and facilities after trekking in the Himalayas.

What makes this property a great choice is the lush green and award-winning Shambala Garden, the outdoor swimming pool along with sauna and steam facilities.

Ghangri Boutique Hotel

Located just next to Kathmandu’s famous Boudhanath Stupa, Ghangri Boutique Hotel is a fabulous place to stay at. Ghangri Boutique Hotel has been welcoming Booking.com guests since 4 Mar 2015.

Boudhha is a great area for travelers interested in ancient landmarks ,  history  and  monuments . Solo travelers particularly like the location.

MY TOP TIP:

Kantipur Temple House

I spent four nights at Kantipur Temple House and loved my stay. The eco-friendly hotel is located in Kathmandu’s historic district, 2 km from Old Durbar Square, downtown Thamel and Kathmandu International Airport is 7 km away.

The eco-friendly resort focuses on conscious living and healing body and mind. Breakfast and dinner is included in the room rate. Guests can also join free daily walking tours with a licenses guide and take yoga sessions every morning on the rooftop or in the garden.

If you are looking for a relaxing place to stay in Kathmandu that is within walking distance to the historic center, Kantipur Temple House is the perfect choice.

KATHMANDU TRAVEL TIPS

Must-see attractions.

While a lot of people only spend a short amount of time in Kathmandu en route to Himalaya trekking adventures, the city actually has a lot to offer. I spent 4-5 days in the city and just managed to visit all the “must-see” attractions. This Kathmandu valley travel guide covers the most beautiful must-see attractions in and around the city.

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Nepal is home to three distinct Durbar Squares, all of which lie in the Kathmandu Valley. Kathmandu Durbar Square makes up the historic center of the city in front of the old royal palace of the former Kathmandu Kingdom. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a great place to start exploring the city.

Ason Bazaar

Ason is  is a ceremonial, market and residential square in central Kathmandu and the perfect place to just wander and explore. I have to admit, I was quite overwhelmed with the bustling chaos of this part of town and was hit by a wave of culture shock that quickly turned into awe-struck excitement.

Swayambhunath Monkey Temple

One of my favorite sites in Kathmandu is this monkey temple. This ancient religious architecture sits atop a hill in the Kathmandu Valley overlooking the city. The Tibetan name for the site means ‘Sublime Trees’, for the many varieties of trees found on the hill. As its English name conveys, you will also find countless cunning monkeys running around this temple site waiting to snatch a snack from you.

Boudhanath Stupa

Boudhanath is located about 11 km from the center and northeastern outskirts of Kathmandu. The stupa’s massive mandala makes it one of the largest spherical stupas in Nepal. The best time to visit here is late afternoon when locals start gathering and making their circles around the holy site to pray. There are several rooftop cafes allowing you to sit and watch the spectacle with a nice cup of coffee.

Shri Pashupatinath Temple

One of my personal favorite historic sites in Kathmandu is the Shri Pashupatinath Temple site. It is a famous and sacred Hindu temple complex located on the banks of the Bagmati River. Here, Hindu believers are cremated and their ashes scattered into the river, transporting them all the way to the holy Ganges in India.

There are also several smaller temple complexes (mostly only Hindus are allowed to enter) where festivals and important ceremonies are held. Several Sadhu holy men also live on these temple grounds and will gladly pose for pictures in exchange for a small donation.

Kathmandu Street Food Tour

Nepalese food is well renowned all around the world for its flavorful dishes. If you want to explore the tasty world of Nepalese food while traveling in Kathmandu, I highly recommend the Kathmandu street food tour I went on.

The food tour in Kathmandu is 2 hours long with flexible start times between 12 and 4 PM.  Tour partakers have then the opportunity to taste amazingly flavorful dishes in Kathmandu’s off-the-beaten-track side-alleys and streets. Definitely a tour you don’t want to miss out on!

Kathmandu Street Photography Tour

I got the opportunity to join a street photography tour in Kathmandu and learned so many new things that I will be able to use in my future photography. If you, too, enjoy photography, be sure to check out this photography tour in Kathmandu when you’re in town!

It’s perfect for anyone wanting to improve their travel photography skills while exploring the vibrant chaos of Nepal .  You’ll get the chance to explore parts of the city many tourists don’t generally venture into while getting professional tips on lighting, angles and subject selection.

TOP DAY TRIPS FROM KATHMANDU

Patan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and historical gem. It’s an easy day trip from Kathmandu. The well-preserved Patan Durbar Square, Patan Museum, and the Golden Temple are among the must-see attractions in Patan.

Patan Durbar Square is a perfect example for ancient Newari architecture in the Kathmandu Valley. The square area features a variety of beautiful old temples but some can only be entered by Hindus.

Even though the 2015 earthquake brought extensive damage to Durbar Square (like in most of Kathmandu), Patan is definitely worth a visit.

Bhaktapur is the best preserved of the three medieval city-states in the Kathmandu Valley ( Kantipur , which is modern-day Kathamndu, Patan and Bhaktapur ). Just like in Patan and Kathmandu, the 2015 earthquake caused terrible devastation in Bhaktapur but luckily only a few temples were destroyed.

Besides the many stunning temples and ancient buildings, Bhaktapur is also famous for its pottery culture. This tradition is still very much kept alive, especially at Potters’ Square. Here, you will find an entire public square full of potter’s wheels and rows of clay pots drying in the sun.

Asides from pottery, Bhaktapur’s locals are also masters in wood carving and brass making. This makes Bhaktapur a great place to visit where the past meets the present.

While Patan and Bhaktapur are the most popular day trips from Kathmandu, Kirtipur is more off-the-beaten path and lesser-known than the two others. Kirtipur is an ancient city and one of the most famous and religious places to visit in Nepal.

Kirtipur is a great place to stroll around and get a glimpse into the lives of the locals. Here, you will see Nepali women washing their clothes with their neighbors in the alley, children playing with puppies and kittens and Hindus and Buddhists going about their prayers at neighborhood temples.

The city is also a great place to enjoy Kathmandu Valley views because of its unique location up on a hill. Culinary lovers are also going to find some of the best places to enjoy authentic Newari food in Kirtipur.

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Travel Guide to Kathmandu, Nepal [with Sample Itinerary]

Read our Kathmandu travel guide to help you have an idea with your next journey to this wonderful capital in the country of Nepal.

• 11 Best Hiking Treks To Experience in Nepal
• Complete List of Recommended Cheap Hotels in Nepal
• Photojournal of Nepal: A Getaway from an Ordinary Life
• Himalayan Mountain Trek: Journey to Himalayas, Nepal
• DIY Travel Guide Series: 6 Days Trekking in Nepal

Table of Contents

Kathmandu Travel Guide: Places to Visit in Kathmandu, Nepal

1. boudhanath stupa.

Suggested Tour:  Kathmandu Valley Private 6-Hour Tour

2. Swayambhunath Temple

Suggested Tour: Kathmandu: 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites with Private Tour

3. Pashupatinath Temple

Suggested Tour:  Kathmandu Valley: UNESCO World Heritage Sites Day Tour

4. Chandragiri Hills

Suggested Tour:  Chandragiri Hill: Full-Day Tour with Cable Car Ride

Suggested Tour: Kathmandu Sightseeing by Rickshaw

6. Garden of Dreams

7. Kathmandu Durbar Square

Suggested Tour: Lonely Planet Experiences: Insider Tour of Kathmandu

8. Kopan Monastery

9. Hanuman Dhoka

Suggested Tour:  Kathmandu: Full-Day Guided Sightseeing Tour

If you want to enhance your trip to Nepal and want to see more of the country, consider going on a trek in the lap of the Himalayas in Nepal. You will see the glorious and highest peaks in the world smiling right in front of you. The views of gorgeous landscapes, pristine rivers, and several high cliffs will certainly take your breath away. And your experience of  trekking in Nepal  doesn’t just end here; the beautiful yet adventurous trail of the trekking destinations, along with the unique cultural experience of the different ethnic groups in Nepal, will show you the true aesthetic of the country.

Therefore, Come and have the experience of your lifetime in the lap of the Himalayas.

Kathmandu Travel Guide: Sample Weekend Itinerary to Kathmandu, Nepal

Day 1 – weekend guide to kathmandu, nepal.

Kathmandu Durbar Square Hanuman Dhoka Pashupatinath Temple

Day 2 – Weekend Guide to Kathmandu, Nepal

Boudhanath Stupa Swayambhunath Temple Kopan Monastery

Day 3 – Weekend Guide to Kathmandu, Nepal

Thamel Garden of Dreams Chandragiri Hills

Kathmandu Travel Guide: Where to Stay in Kathmandu, Nepal

*All prices are subject to change.

Where to Stay in Kathmandu, Nepal if you’re a Backpacker

Kathmandu Madhuban Guest House

Kathmandu Madhuban Guest House offers free WiFi and a library. Featuring wall-to-wall carpeting, rooms at Madhuban come with a cable TV and 24-hour running hot and cold water. Rooms are also equipped with a telephone and fan.

Price: Starts at $14 per night for Standard Double or Twin Room, includes taxes and charges, free breakfast, and it offers a free cancellation.

Famous House Kathmandu

Famous House Kathmandu is located in Kathmandu. Free WiFi access is available. Other facilities offered at the property include a shared lounge. An array of activities can be enjoyed on-site or in the surroundings, including cycling, horse riding, and hiking. The property offers free parking.

Price: Starts at $16 per night for Standard Double Room, includes taxes and charges,  $3 for breakfast, but  it offers a free cancellation.

Khangsar Guest House

Khangsar Guest House’s rooms come with a shared balcony. Simply furnished and fitted with parquet flooring, each room has a TV and an attached bathroom with hot and cold water. The front desk operates 24 hours.

Price: Starts at $23 per night for Double Room with Private Bathroom, includes taxes and charges, $3 for breakfast, but  it offers a free cancellation.

Where to Stay in Kathmandu, Nepal if you’re on a Budget

Hotel Florid

Each room at Hotel Florid will provide you with air conditioning and a seating area. There is also an electric kettle. Featuring a shower, private bathroom also comes with free toiletries and slippers. Here, you will find a 24-hour front desk, a garden, and a terrace.

Price: Starts at $15 per night for Queen Room with City View, includes taxes and charges, $4 for breakfast, but it offers a free cancellation. 

Hotel Silver Home

Hotel Silver Home offers stunning views of mountains and the Kathmandu Valley from its rooftop terrace. Guestrooms at Silver Home have seating areas and offer cable television. The en suite bathroom comes with shower facilities. Travel and car hire arrangements can be made at the tour desk.

Price: Starts at $20 per night for Standard Twin Room, includes taxes and charges, free breakfast, and it offers a free cancellation.

Hotel Sweet Town 

Hotel Sweet Town provides air-conditioned rooms, a bar, and a shared lounge. All units at the hotel are equipped with a seating area, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels and a private bathroom with a hairdryer and a shower. All guest rooms include a desk.

Price: Starts at $35 per night for Deluxe Double Room, includes taxes and charges, free breakfast, and it offers a free cancellation.

Where to Stay in Kathmandu, Nepal if you want Luxury

Radisson Hotel Kathmandu

Radisson Hotel Kathmandu offers a 24-hour front desk, free Wi-Fi throughout the property, and luxurious modern rooms. Each well-appointed air-conditioned room features a comfortable and spacious seating area and is equipped with a flat-screen TV, minibar, and wardrobe. The en suite bathroom contains complimentary toiletries. Guests can use the Tranquility Spa for complete body therapy and beauty care services. The property also houses a Casino Rad – 24-hour gaming and entertainment and a gift shop.

Price: Starts at $150 per night for Superior Double or Twin Room, add $36 for taxes and charges, $15 for breakfast (optional), but  it offers a free cancellation.

Hotel Yak & Yeti

The 5-star Hotel Yak & Yeti is housed in a heritage palace in central Kathmandu, surrounded by antique fountains and landscaped gardens. The elegant air-conditioned rooms are equipped with a cable TV and minibar. Some rooms have a personal safe and bathrobes. Certain bathrooms come with a bathtub. Guests can head to the beauty salon or exercise at the fitness center. Laundry and dry cleaning services are also available.

Price: Starts at $174 per night for Deluxe Double or Twin Room, includes taxes and charges,   $15 for breakfast (optional), but  it offers a free cancellation.

Kathmandu Marriott Hotel

Kathmandu Marriott Hotel features accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, an outdoor swimming pool, and a fitness center. At the hotel, the rooms are fitted with a desk and a flat-screen TV. All rooms will provide guests with a wardrobe and a kettle. Guests at Kathmandu Marriott Hotel can also enjoy a continental or a buffet breakfast. The accommodation provides a 24-hour front desk, room service, and currency exchange for guests.

Price: Starts at $237 per night for M Club Lounge Access, Guest Room, 2 Double, Mountain View, add $24 for taxes and charges, free breakfast, and it offers a free cancellation.

Kathmandu Travel Guide: List of restaurants that you can try while in Kathmandu, Nepal

1. French Creperie Kathmandu

Operating hours: 08:00 AM – 11:00 PM  (Sun-Sat) Address:  Chaksibari Marg Thamel, Kathmandu 44600 Nepal

2. Yala Cafe

Operating hours: 07:00 AM – 10:00 PM  (Mon-Sat) 06:30 AM – 10:00 PM (Sun) Address:  Kwabahal, Thamel, Kathmandu 44600 Nepal

3. MarcoPolo Restaurant

Operating hours: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM  (Sun-Sat) Address:  1st Floor, Chhaya Center Thamel, Kathmandu 44600 Nepal

4. Upstairs Cafe

Operating hours: 07:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Sun-Sat) Address: Chakshibari marg Thamel Kathmandu, Kathmandu 44600 Nepal

5. Fusion Himalaya cafe &Restaurant

Operating hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Sun-Fri) Address:  Paknajol Marg, Kathmandu 44600 Nepal

And that’s our Kathmandu travel guide for you! We hope we’re able to give you enough insights about this city. Have you been here? Or are you planning to go here? Share with us your experience!

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A locals’ guide to Kathmandu, Nepal: top 10 tips

The gateway to the Himalayas has been a backpackers’ haven since the 1950s. Now recovering from the 2015 earthquake, it offers a magical mix of chaos and beauty

The Garden of Dreams

For most visitors, a trip to Nepal begins in Thamel. This labyrinth of streets and alleys lined with souvenir shops, bars, hotels and restaurants has been the hub for backpackers since the country opened itself to outsiders in the late 1950s. Of the city’s handful of green enclaves, the Garden of Dreams is a serene spot in which to escape the bustle of the streets. Just across from the former royal palace (which is now a museum), the garden, with its pavilions and ponds, is the perfect spot to unwind with a book or take a nap on the lawn mats.

Boudhanath stupa

Boudhanath is one of the holiest sites for Buddhists, but don’t expect to feel zen vibes right away at this Unesco-listed site: it’s loud, busy and next to a teeming thoroughfare. It can take a few minutes to take in the grandeur of the great white dome of Boudhanath, badly damaged by the 2015 earthquake but now restored. After the noise of the traffic recedes, you can hear soft chanting and smell the burning incense. Boudhanath is also an important place for Buddhist scholarship, with many monasteries built around the holy site. The area is home to a large Tibetan community, and the shops and restaurants in the vicinity offer a great introduction to Tibetan food and culture. If you can handle spicy food, try lhaphing , a cold noodle dish, found in any of the Tibetan restaurants. Entrance $4

Jazz Upstairs

Jazz Upstairs used to be a regular haunt for Nepali youth in the late 1990s; an intimate seating area on the floor of an old rundown house with a tiny side entrance was the perfect place for clandestine dates and great jazz. The old building has succumbed to a concrete makeover, but Jazz Upstairs, in the Lazimpat neighbourhood, remains popular. Within walking distance of Thamel, the bar hosts live performances on Wednesdays and Saturdays. With excellent music, affordable prices and a rooftop bar with a 360-degree view of the hills that surround the valley, Jazz Upstairs is a welcome change from more touristy haunts in Thamel. A bottle of Gorkha beer with a plate of Alu Dum (a spicy, tangy potato dish) costs around $6. jazzupstairs.com

Nepal on a plate

A thali (a set meal on a metal plate) comes with the Nepali staple daal bh at (rice and lentils) along with masu (meat), tarka ri (vegetable curry), saag (leafy greens) and a cha r (pickle). But a thakali- style thali also makes generous use of Sichuan pepper and jimb u , an aromatic herb native to the Himalayas. In Nepal, it is found in the northern region of Mustang, where the Thakali community is originally from. Tukche Thakali Kitchen is a family-run restaurant loved for its delicious food and warm hospitality. The interior is full of copper pots and brassware, and its traditional chulo (stove) adds to the experience of devouring a thali – that comes with generous refills. Thalis with chicken, mutton or vegetables from around $5, tukche.com

Momo joints

Everyone in the city has their favourite place when it comes to eating momos (steamed meat or vegetable dumplings). Whether it is a hole-in-the-wall bhatti or a posh restaurant, momos are representative of the Kathmandu valley’s ethnic diversity. The Newar traders are said to have brought the recipe back from Tibet. Some of our favourite momo places are Jatra Cafe & Bar in Thamel, for vegetarian momos; the jhol (soup) momos at Le Trio in Jhamsikhel; and pork momos at Yellow Pomelo on Jawlakhel Road.

Stay in the city of beauty

Patan is only a 20-minute taxi ride from Thamel, but feels distinctly different from Kathmandu. Its Sanskrit name was Lalitpur, meaning City of Beauty, and a walk there offers a glimpse of the intimate lives of Newari people, the indigenous inhabitants of the Kathmandu valley. Its Durbar Square is the finest collection of temples and palaces in Nepal, even after the 2015 earthquake. The most memorable experience comes at dusk, when temples and monasteries light upready for evening prayers. People throng to the square to drink tea and watch the evening glow on the gold-plated spires. Newa Chen is a 350-year-old Newari house belonging to the Shrestha family, who restored their three-storey property and opened it to guests in 2006. The beautifully carved windows overlooking the courtyard, brick interiors, beamed ceiling and straw mats transport you back to the 17th century. Doubles from $50 B&B ($40 with shared bathroom ), newachen.com

Tour of Kathmandu Durbar Square

Up until the mid-18th century, the Kathmandu valley was split into three kingdoms: Kathmandu, Lalitpur and Bhaktapur. Each of these three cities has a sprawling palace complex, or Durbar Square, which are testament to Nepal’s monarchical past. All three are listed as world heritage sites. The Kathmandu Durbar Square, above, is an intricate mix of temples, palaces, monasteries and shrines that are not only of historical importance, but each structure and statue evokes myths and legends passed down through generations. The best way to discover this square is by on foot. Alok Siddhi Tuladhar, a cultural heritage conservationist, conducts a free Heritage Walkevery third Sunday of the month. The walk begins at the north end of Kamalachi street near Ason, a marketplace in the heart of old Kathmandu, and the beginning of the ancient trade route that connected Kathmandu with Tibet and India.

Sam’s Bar, Thamel

The roof terrace of Sam’s Bar, in Thamel, has a cosy rooftop terrace and is popular with both backpackers and locals. The graffiti on the walls reads more like love letters to Nepal, left behind by visitors from all over the world. While it doesn’t serve food, expect generous portions of salted popcorn to accompany a cocktail or bottle of Gorkha beer (both about $4). If you are there in winter, grab a seat next to the log fire and order a hot rum punch made with Nepal’s very ownKhukri rum. The communal feel of the terrace means you are sure to have made friends by the end of the night. Chaksibari Marg, no website

Full moon classical music

Kirateshwar Sangeet is a music school that puts together enchanting classical music performances every month on the night of the full moonat Kirateshwar Mahadev temple. Running for over 25 years, these concerts attract eastern classical music talents from Nepal and abroad, the musicians putting on a spellbinding performance with their tablas, flutes, harmonium and sitar. These concerts are free, usually start at around 5pm, and last about two hours. Sitting out in the open under a full moon listening to classical music is a unique experience, so make sure you check the lunar phase before your trip. The temple is in the Pashupatinath temple complex, between Pashupatinath and Gujeshwori temples.

Honacha restaurant

Newari cuisine is famous for its variety. Each dishholds a meaning or plays a specific role in a traditional Newari bhoj (feast). Behind the Krishna temple in Patan’s Durbar Square is Honacha, one of the oldest restaurants serving authentic Newari dishes. The place is always teeming with hungry diners often sharing tables while snacking on chhwela (spicy marinated buffalo meat), bara (round, fluffy lentil pancakes), and spicy potato curry. Don’t forget to try aila , home-brewed Newari liquor, the perfect accompaniment to the delicious food. Full meal around $5, on Facebook

Getting there From the UK, the quickest routes are with Oman Air via Muscat, Qatar Airways via Doha, and Jet Airways and Air India, both via Delhi.

Best time to go Between October and December, when the skies are clear and the views spectacular.

Where to stay Pilgrim’s Guesthouse (singles $18, doubles $14-28) or the Bodhi Boutique Hotel (twins and doubles $55).

Recommended reads Kathmandu by Thomas Bell . Thamel: Dark Star of Kathmandu by Rabi Thapa . Arresting God in Kathmandu by Samrat Upadhyaya .

Bhrikuti Rai is a journalist and Itisha Giri is a poet. Both are producers of Boju Bajai , a monthly podcast on feminism and Nepal

Looking for a holiday with a difference? Browse Guardian Holidays to find a range of fantastic trips

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Kathmandu travel guide

Kathmandu tourism | kathmandu guide, you're going to love kathmandu.

With 1,44 million inhabitants, Kathmandu is the most populous city in Nepal. It is the most popular tourist destination in the country. Kathmandu deserves at least 2 full days for you to see its main sights.

Activities & attractions in Kathmandu

When to visit Kathmandu

Looking for warm weather? Then head to Kathmandu in June, when the average temperature is 73.4 °F, and the highest can go up to 78.8 °F. The coldest month, on the other hand, is January, when it can get as cold as 39.2 °F, with an average temperature of 50 °F. You’re likely to see more rain in July, when precipitation is around 14.6″. In contrast, November is usually the driest month of the year in Kathmandu, with an average rainfall of 0″.

How to Get to Kathmandu

When flying to Kathmandu, you’ll arrive at Kathmandu Tribhuvan (KTM), which is located 4 km from the city center. The shortest flight to Kathmandu from the United States departs from San Francisco and takes around 21h 20m.

Kathmandu’s bus station is located 1.5 km from the city center.

Airports near Kathmandu

Airlines serving kathmandu, where to stay in kathmandu.

Average rates range from around $23 per night for a double room in a 3-star hotel to $81 and up for a 5-star experience. If you’re on a budget, well-reviewed accommodations include Kathmandu Boutique Hotel and Karma Boutique Hotel . There are also lots of vacation rental options in Kathmandu, with prices from $6 to $221 per night. Thamel is the neighborhood with the highest amount of rentals to choose from. On average, vacation rentals in Kathmandu are about 31% cheaper than a hotel room in the city.

Where to stay in popular areas of Kathmandu

Most booked hotels in kathmandu, renting a car in kathmandu.

Renting a car in Kathmandu costs $188 per day, on average, or $375 if you want to rent if for 2 days.

Expect to pay $4.85 per gallon in Kathmandu (average price from the past 30 days). Depending on the size of your rental car, filling up the tank will cost between $58.14 and $77.53. The most frequently booked car type in Kathmandu is Compact (Hyundai Creta or similar). If you’re looking to save money, though, keep in mind that Economy rental cars (Class Economy SUV or similar) are, on average, 12% cheaper than other rental car types in the city.

Kathmandu Travel Guide: Explore the Best of the Mystical City

Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is a city steeped in rich history and mystical charm, making it a must-visit destination for travelers. From its bustling streets to its ancient temples and vibrant markets, there is no shortage of experiences to be had in this culturally vibrant city. In this Kathmandu travel guide, we’ll delve into the best transportation options, accommodation choices, must-see attractions, local culture and cuisine, outdoor activities, shopping spots, day trips, and essential tips for a memorable and safe trip. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or a foodie, Kathmandu has something extraordinary to offer.

Introduction to Kathmandu

Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is a vibrant and culturally rich destination nestled in the heart of the Himalayas. With a history dating back to over 2000 years, Kathmandu is a melting pot of Hindu and Buddhist traditions, ancient temples, and bustling markets. As the largest city in Nepal, it serves as the political, cultural, and economic hub of the country. Here’s what you need to know to kickstart your Kathmandu adventure:

• Location : Situated in the Kathmandu Valley, the city is surrounded by four major mountains: Shivapuri, Phulchoki, Nagarjun, and Chandragiri.
• Weather : Kathmandu experiences a moderate, subtropical climate with warm summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination for travelers.
• Culture : The city is a kaleidoscope of diverse cultures and ethnicities, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in traditional music, dance, and religious festivities.
• Language : Nepali is the official language, but English is widely spoken and understood, especially in tourist areas.
• Cuisine : Indulge in the flavors of Nepal with a variety of local dishes such as momos, dal bhat, and Newari cuisine, which are a treat for your taste buds.
• Transportation : Navigating the city is convenient with options like taxis, rickshaws, and public buses, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace.

Embark on a journey through Kathmandu’s enchanting streets, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern influences, promising an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression.

Remember, when planning your trip to Kathmandu, always consider the local customs and respect the cultural heritage that defines this unique and mesmerizing city.

That’s the introduction to Kathmandu, the first step in your Kathmandu Travel Guide adventure!

Getting to Kathmandu: Transportation options

When planning your trip to Kathmandu, it’s essential to consider the transportation options available to reach this mystical city. Here are the main ways to travel to Kathmandu:

• The Tribhuvan International Airport is the primary gateway to Kathmandu, serving both domestic and international flights. Major airlines operate scheduled flights to and from Kathmandu, making it easily accessible from different parts of the world.
• Travelers can also reach Kathmandu by road from various cities in Nepal and neighboring countries. The Prithvi Highway connects Kathmandu with the city of Pokhara, offering a scenic route for those who prefer land travel.
• Regular bus services operate between Kathmandu and other major cities in Nepal. Deluxe tourist buses and local buses are available, offering budget-friendly travel options for those exploring the region.
• While there are no direct train services to Kathmandu, travelers can take a train to the Nepal-India border and then continue the journey by road.
• Once in Kathmandu, travelers can navigate the city using taxis, rickshaws, and local buses. Additionally, car rentals and motorcycle hires are available for those who prefer to explore the city at their own pace.

Exploring Kathmandu starts with choosing the most convenient transportation option based on your location and travel preferences. Whether arriving by air, road, or bus, the journey to Kathmandu promises to be a memorable part of your travel experience.

Accommodation options in Kathmandu

When visiting Kathmandu, you’ll find a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious stay or a budget-friendly hostel, Kathmandu has something for everyone.

In the heart of Kathmandu, you’ll find a variety of hotels offering comfortable and convenient stays for travelers. From international chains to boutique hotels, the city has options for all kinds of travelers. Some popular hotels even offer stunning views of the Himalayas, adding an extra touch to your stay.

Guesthouses and Homestays

For a more intimate and local experience, consider staying in a guesthouse or homestay. You’ll have the opportunity to connect with locals and immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of Kathmandu. It’s a great way to experience traditional Nepali hospitality and authenticity.

Budget Hostels

Travelers on a budget can opt for the numerous hostels scattered across Kathmandu. These hostels offer basic yet comfortable amenities, perfect for those who prefer to spend more time exploring the city and surrounding areas.

Comparison Table

To help you make an informed decision, here’s a comparison table outlining the different accommodation options in Kathmandu:

No matter where you choose to stay in Kathmandu, you’re sure to find warm hospitality and a comfortable place to rest after a day of exploring the enchanting city. Remember to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure a seamless travel experience.

Remember to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure a seamless travel experience.

Top Must-See Attractions in Kathmandu

When visiting Kathmandu, you’ll be enchanted by a plethora of must-see attractions that showcase the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. Here are some of the top attractions you shouldn’t miss during your visit to Kathmandu:

• Swayambhunath Stupa : Also known as the Monkey Temple, this iconic stupa offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Kathmandu valley. Explore the beautifully adorned shrines, fluttering prayer flags, and the mesmerizing eyes of Buddha overlooking the city.
• Boudhanath Stupa : One of the largest stupas in the world, Boudhanath is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a center of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. Take a leisurely stroll around the stupa, observe the rituals of the locals, and visit the surrounding monasteries.
• Durbar Square : Explore the heart of the old town, where ancient palaces, courtyards, and temples narrate the city’s royal history. Marvel at the intricate wood carvings of the Palace of 55 Windows and the pagoda-style architecture of Taleju Temple.
• Pashupatinath Temple : This sacred Hindu temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is located on the banks of the Bagmati River. Witness the rituals of cremation along the riverbanks and explore the ornate architecture of the temple complex.
• Kathmandu Durbar Square : Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, this square is a treasure trove of palaces, temples, statues, and courtyards. Don’t miss the Kumari Bahal, the residence of the living goddess Kumari.

These attractions offer a glimpse into the soul of Kathmandu, showcasing its spiritual, historical, and architectural heritage. Kathmandu Travel Guide encourages you to immerse yourself in the enchanting ambiance of these iconic landmarks.

Experiencing the Local Culture and Cuisine

When visiting Kathmandu, immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture and indulge in the diverse Nepalese cuisine. Here’s how you can make the most of this aspect of your trip:

• Explore the Cultural Heritage : Begin your cultural journey with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Swayambhunath Stupa, Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple. These sites not only offer insight into the religious and architectural heritage of Nepal but also provide a glimpse into the daily rituals and practices of the locals.
• Attend Festivals and Events : If your visit coincides with Nepalese festivals such as Dashain or Tihar, seize the opportunity to witness the city adorned in vibrant decorations and bustling with festivities. These celebrations provide an authentic experience of the local customs and traditions.
• Culinary Delights : Embark on a culinary adventure by sampling traditional Nepalese dishes such as momos (dumplings), dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), and Newari cuisine. Visit local eateries and street food stalls to savor the authentic flavors of Kathmandu.
• Cooking Classes : To take your understanding of Nepalese cuisine to the next level, consider enrolling in a cooking class where you can learn to prepare Nepalese dishes. This hands-on experience will deepen your appreciation for the local culinary heritage.

By immersing yourself in the local culture and cuisine, you can truly appreciate the soul of Kathmandu. Whether it’s through exploring historical sites, participating in festivities, or savoring traditional dishes, the city is sure to leave a lasting impression on you.

Outdoor Activities in and Around Kathmandu

When visiting Kathmandu, adventure enthusiasts will find plenty of outdoor activities to satisfy their craving for excitement and exploration. From hiking to paragliding, the city and its surrounding areas offer a range of options for outdoor enthusiasts.

Here are some outdoor activities to consider when planning your Kathmandu adventure:

• Hiking: Explore the beautiful landscapes surrounding Kathmandu by embarking on a hiking adventure. The Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park offers various trails of different difficulty levels, providing hikers with stunning views of the Himalayas and the Kathmandu Valley.
• Mountain Biking: For those seeking an adrenaline rush, mountain biking in the hills surrounding Kathmandu is an excellent choice. Riders can enjoy the scenic trails while experiencing the thrill of downhill rides and challenging terrains.
• Rock Climbing: Adventure seekers can test their climbing skills at the Nagarjun Forest Reserve, known for its impressive rock formations and diverse climbing routes suitable for both beginners and experienced climbers.
• Paragliding: Experience the breathtaking beauty of Kathmandu from a bird’s-eye view by indulging in the exhilarating activity of paragliding. The nearby city of Pokhara is a popular destination for paragliding, offering awe-inspiring views of the mountains and the Phewa Lake.

By participating in these outdoor activities, travelers can fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty and adventure that Kathmandu and its surrounding areas have to offer.

Remember to prioritize safety and enlist the guidance of experienced local guides for a truly memorable outdoor adventure in Kathmandu.

Shopping in Kathmandu: Markets and Souvenirs

When visiting Kathmandu, shopping for unique items and souvenirs is a delightful experience. The city is home to a variety of markets and shops offering traditional handicrafts, clothing, jewelry, and other local goods. Here’s a guide to shopping in Kathmandu, including the best markets and the types of souvenirs you can find:

Markets in Kathmandu:

• Thamel Market : Known for its bustling streets and narrow alleys, Thamel is a hub for shopping. You can find an array of goods, including clothing, trekking gear, jewelry, and souvenirs.
• Asan Market : This is one of the oldest markets in Kathmandu, offering a wide range of products such as spices, textiles, and religious items.
• Indra Chowk : A vibrant market where you can shop for local handicrafts, traditional clothing, and souvenirs.

Souvenirs to Look Out For:

• Handicrafts : Nepalese handicrafts such as wood carvings, metal crafts, and traditional masks make for unique souvenirs.
• Thangka Paintings : These intricate Buddhist paintings are a popular choice among visitors.
• Pashmina Shawls : Known for their softness and warmth, Pashmina shawls are a luxurious souvenir to take home.
• Singing Bowls : These traditional Tibetan bowls are sought after for their soothing sounds.

Comparison Table:

Here’s a comparison of the main markets in Kathmandu:

While shopping in Kathmandu, it’s essential to bargain for the best prices. Remember to stay respectful and polite during negotiations. Enjoy exploring the markets and finding distinctive treasures to remember your Kathmandu adventure.

Remember, a trip to Kathmandu is not complete without experiencing its vibrant markets and bringing back a slice of its rich culture with you.

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Day trips and excursions from Kathmandu

When visiting Kathmandu, there are several captivating day trips and excursions that should not be missed. By venturing out of the city, travelers can explore breathtaking natural landscapes, historical sites, and cultural experiences. Here are some popular day trips and excursions from Kathmandu:

• Bhaktapur : This ancient city, also known as Bhadgaon, is just a short distance from Kathmandu. It is renowned for its well-preserved palace courtyards and intricately designed temples, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Nepal.
• Nagarkot : Situated about 25 kilometers east of Kathmandu, Nagarkot offers panoramic views of the Himalayas. It’s a perfect spot to witness the sunrise over the snow-capped peaks, providing a mesmerizing and unforgettable experience.
• Chitlang : This rustic and picturesque village is located southwest of Kathmandu. Visitors can enjoy organic farming experiences, interact with local communities, and explore the serene countryside.
• Balthali : Known for its lush greenery and tranquil atmosphere, Balthali is an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Travelers can partake in nature walks, birdwatching, and cultural encounters.
• Dhulikhel : This ancient town, situated in the eastern part of the Kathmandu Valley, is celebrated for its stunning views of the Himalayas, traditional Newari architecture, and peaceful ambiance.

By embarking on these day trips and excursions from Kathmandu, travelers can gain a deeper understanding of Nepal’s diverse offerings, from its natural beauty to its rich cultural tapestry.

Remember to plan your excursions carefully, considering transportation options and local guides, to ensure a seamless and rewarding experience.

Experience the vibrant diversity of Nepal beyond Kathmandu, and create lasting memories that will enrich your travel experience.

Tips for a Memorable and Safe Trip to Kathmandu

When traveling to Kathmandu, it’s essential to keep a few tips in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some valuable tips to help you make the most of your trip:

• Respect the local culture: Embrace the local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in religious or ceremonial settings.
• Bargain wisely: While shopping in local markets, bargaining is a common practice. However, ensure that you bargain respectfully and fairly.
• Stay aware of your surroundings: Like in any other city, it’s important to stay vigilant and be aware of your belongings. Keep an eye on your valuables, especially in crowded places.
• Stay informed about local laws: Familiarize yourself with the local laws and customs to avoid any unintentional misunderstandings .
• Be cautious with food and water: To prevent any stomach issues, stick to bottled water and eat at reputable restaurants. Avoid consuming unpeeled fruits and raw vegetables.
• Dress modestly: When visiting religious sites, make sure to dress modestly as a sign of respect.
• Choose trusted tour operators: If you plan to go on a trek or excursion, make sure to book with a reputable and licensed tour operator.
• Health precautions: Consider getting vaccinated before your trip and carry a basic medical kit for minor emergencies.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can ensure a smooth and memorable experience while exploring the enchanting city of Kathmandu.

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15 Incredible Things to Do in Kathmandu | A Travel Guide

• May 21, 2024

Kathmandu, the heart of Nepal, is more than its capital; it’s a reflection of the country’s soul. The architecture here is a mix of historic styles influenced by various dynasties, offering a glimpse into the city’s layered past. Amidst these historical echoes, the present vibrates with the energy of a growing, dynamic urban environment.

The people of Kathmandu are its true essence. A melting pot of ethnicities and  cultures , the city thrives on the diversity of its inhabitants. This diversity is visible in the everyday life of the city, where traditional practices are preserved even as residents embrace the changes brought by globalization.

What I particularly loved the most about Kathmandu is that it’s essentially the  spiritual  hub of Nepal. With both  Buddhist  and  Hindu  communities co-existing in harmony, the scent of incense wafting through the air, and traditional shops in every street corner. It’s one of those cities where I totally felt at peace while exploring it’s ancient alleys.

Table of Contents

History of Kathmandu

It’s believed that the Kathmandu Valley was once a vast lake, and according to legend, a Bodhisattva named Manjushri saw a lotus flower in the center of this lake and cut a gorge at Chovar to drain the water and make the land habitable.

This valley became the cradle of Nepalese civilization. Over centuries, Kathmandu blossomed into a thriving city, with its history deeply rooted in the dynasties that ruled it. The Malla kings, in particular, left an indelible mark during their reign from the 12th to the 18th century, building many of the city’s most iconic temples and palaces that you’ll see on this article.

Throughout its history, Kathmandu has faced challenges, from invasions to natural disasters, but its spirit has remained unbroken.

Best Tours in Kathmandu

If you’re looking for activities to join from Kathmandu, look no further as there are plenty of awesome tours to join right from your hotel’s doorstep. Here are some of the top-rated ones:

• Mount Everest Scenic Tour by Plane with Transfers   – See Mount Everest from the sky as you depart from Kathmandu on a scenic tour by plane. Gaze down at the vast glaciers of the Himalayas and benefit from a return hotel transfer.
• Nepali Cooking Class & Momo Making with Pickup  – Immerse yourself into Nepali culture through its food. During this workshop, hands-on cooking class, participants start from scratch by learning how to choose the best ingredients for selective meal.
• Kathmandu City Flavors Guided Walking Tour   – Take a bite out of Kathmandu on this guided walking tour with delicious tastings. Immerse yourself in local culture through dishes like momo dumplings and selroti (rice flour donuts).
• 2 Stupas and Kapan Monastery Spiritual Tour   – Find peace at the Jamche Vijaya Stupa, connect with monks at Kapan Monastery, and absorb sacred energy at the Boudhanath Stupa on this tour from Katmandu. Discover Buddhist sites with a licensed guide.
• Nagarkot Sunrise and Hike Tour to Changu Narayan – Soak in the fresh mountain air and sweeping views of the Himalayas on a day trip from Kathmandu. Travel between the towns of Nagarkot and Changu Narayan, traversing a rugged mountain landscape.
• Rafting in Trisuli River from Kathmandu with Private Vehicle   – Experience thrilling Trisuli River rafting from Kathmandu with the comfort of a private vehicle. Enjoy rapid adventures and scenic beauty, with all equipment and meals included.

Nepalese Cultural Overview

Nepal’s culture is rich and varied, shaped by the over 120 ethnic groups that live across its landscapes. These groups each contribute their own traditions, languages, and beliefs, creating a diverse cultural landscape that mirrors the physical diversity of Nepal itself.

Spirituality is a core part of life here, with most Nepalis following  Hinduism  or  Buddhism , particularly Tibetan or  Vajrayana Buddhism . The  syncretic  blend of these religions can be seen in the daily rituals, the many temples and monasteries, and the vibrant festivals that bring people together in celebration. These events are filled with music, dance, and a rainbow of colors!

The Nepalese are known for their exceptional hospitality, treating guests with great respect and kindness. This welcoming spirit is also evident in their arts, cuisine, and crafts, which reflect a strong connection to their heritage as well as a willingness to embrace new influences.

If you’re interested in a deeper look at how these many ethnic groups shape Nepalese culture, check out my detailed article that offers an in-depth exploration of their traditions, practices, and daily life.

Top Things to Do in Kathmandu

1. Circumbabulate the Boudhanath Stupa

The Boudhanath Stupa is central to the spiritual life of Kathmandu. Originating in the 5th century, the stupa’s origins are tied to ancient legends; one popular tale recounts that it was constructed by an old woman seeking a place for devotion, after obtaining permission from a king.

This structure is particularly notable for its massive size, making it one of the largest spherical stupas in Nepal and the world. Its design is a precise representation of the Buddhist cosmos, with the dome symbolizing the void from which everything emanates. The square tower adorned with the Buddha’s eyes looks out in the four cardinal directions, a symbol of the Buddha’s omnipresence.

Around the base of the stupa, numerous smaller shrines and statues contribute to a complex of devotion. The area is a hive of activity, with monks and laypeople alike performing kora—circumambulations that are a  meditative practice . The site is also surrounded by monasteries and hosts many important Buddhist ceremonies throughout the year, which attract devotees from around the world.

This is the first place we visited on our  first day exploring Kathmandu  and it makes for an extravagant welcome into Nepal’s cultural heritage.

2. Take a Rest at Boudhanath Buddha Park

Boudhanath Buddha Park is a lesser-known yet profoundly serene part of Kathmandu’s spiritual landscape, located just a short distance from the bustling Boudhanath Stupa. We accidentally stumbled here while walking towards the Shechen Monastery. 

The park is a quiet oasis that stands in contrast to the lively atmosphere around the stupa.

At the heart, stands an impressive and revered statue of Guru Rinpoche, also known as Padmasambhava. This statue , considered a founding father of Tibetan Buddhism,  is situated in the center of a beautiful pond.

3. Check out the Shechen Monastery

If you’ve never seen a Tibetan Buddhist monastery before, now is a good as time as any. I really recommend dropping by Shechen as the architecture is simply jaw-dropping. It’s only a short walk away from Boudanath as well!

Shechen Monastery is a significant center for the study and practice of Tibetan Buddhism, particularly the Nyingma tradition.

Founded by Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche, a renowned Tibetan Buddhist master, Shechen Monastery has become a sanctuary for those seeking deeper understanding and practice of Buddhist teachings. The monastery is known for its richly decorated prayer hall, extensive library of Buddhist texts, and a vibrant community of monks who engage in daily rituals, teachings, and meditation.

4. Enjoy Nightlife in Thamel

Thamel is a neighborhood that captures the essence of Nepal’s urban culture. Known as the main tourist hub, Thamel is a blend of traditional charm and modern convenience, filled with an array of shops, restaurants, and accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs.

The area is a treasure trove for shoppers, offering everything from handmade Nepali crafts like thangka paintings and singing bowls to trekking gear and souvenirs. Heck, it’s where I even got my  chillum ! It’s also the perfect spot to sample local cuisine, with restaurants serving up dishes ranging from traditional Nepalese momos and dal bhat to global favorites.

Nightlife in Thamel is vibrant, with numerous bars, pubs, and live music venues offering a chance to unwind and socialize after a day of exploration. Though the nightlife in  Pokhara  can definitely give Thamel a run for its money!

5. Visit the Pashupatinath Temple

Pashupatinath Temple, located on the banks of the Bagmati River, is one of the most sacred  Hindu  temples in Nepal. This temple is dedicated to  Lord Shiva , known here as Pashupati, which means “Lord of Animals.” 

It’s a complex of temples, ashrams, images, and inscriptions that date back to the 5th century, though the current main temple was built in the 15th century after the previous one was destroyed by termites.

The main temple is only allowed for Hindus but the complex is huge and there is still so much to see, it’s definitely worth it. It is famous for its open-air cremation ghats along the river, where families perform last rites for their deceased loved ones in accordance with Hindu traditions.

I’ve heard that seeing death right before you enter the sacred grounds, also helps  dissolve the ego . You can also join a tour that visit Pashupatinath and 6 other UNESCO World Heritage sites around Kathmandu through  here .

6. Marvel at the Kathmandu Durbar Square

Kathmandu Durbar Square is THE historic heart of Kathmandu. This square was the royal Nepalese residence until the 19th century and remains the center of important ceremonial events, including the coronation of Nepalese monarchs.

The square is an architectural marvel, featuring a mix of palaces, courtyards, and temples built between the 12th and 18th centuries. These structures display the skills of the  Newar  artisans of Kathmandu, renowned for their intricate woodcarving, metalwork, and stonemasonry.

Key highlights include the Taleju Temple, one of the tallest and most sacred in the square, and the Kumari Ghar, the home of the living goddess Kumari. This tradition involves a young girl selected as the human incarnation of the divine female energy. You can even catch a glimpse of the Kumari as she appears briefly at her window.

7. Stroll Around the Garden of Dreams

The Garden of Dreams, also known as the Garden of Six Seasons, is a neoclassical garden originally built in the 1920s by Field Marshal Kaiser Sumsher Rana. After a period of neglect, the garden has been meticulously restored.

The garden covers an area of about 6,895 square meters and is designed in a European style, featuring pavilions, fountains, pergolas, and urns. The layout and planting schemes were influenced by the formal European gardens, but it also incorporates traditional Nepali elements, making it a unique blend of Eastern and Western garden designs.

One of the most striking features of the Garden of Dreams is its six pavilions, each dedicated to one of the six seasons of Nepal: spring, summer, monsoon, early autumn, late autumn, and winter.

8. Watch the Sunset at Swoyambhu Mahachaitya

Swoyambhu Mahachaitya, commonly known as Swayambhunath or the Monkey Temple, is located atop a hill, so get ready for a short and rewarding hike! This site is revered in both Buddhism and Hinduism and is recognized for its iconic stupa with the Buddha’s eyes looking in all four cardinal directions, except this time it’s golden.

The history of Swayambhunath dates back to the 5th century, making it one of the oldest and most important landmarks in Nepal. The stupa itself is a symbol of enlightenment, with the white dome representing the earth and the spire symbolizing the path to  nirvana . Around the base of the stupa are prayer wheels that devotees spin while circumambulating the stupa in a clockwise direction, reciting  mantras .

The site also offers panoramic views of Kathmandu and is frequented by monkeys, hence the name. It’s also the perfect place to watch the sunset which is exactly what we did!

9. Don't Forget the Maha Manjushri Temple

Maha Manjushri Temple in Kathmandu is less well-known among the major tourist sites but holds great significance in Buddhist tradition. This temple is dedicated to Manjushri, the bodhisattva of wisdom, who is often depicted with a sword in one hand to cut through ignorance and a book of transcendent wisdom in the other.

It’s actually on the other side of the hill, opposed to the Monkey Temple. A lot of people miss out on this one, but I found the views and atmosphere to be much more intimate.

10. Explore Freak Street

Freak Street, officially known as Jhochhen Tole, is a historic street in Kathmandu that gained international fame during the 1960s and 1970s as the epicenter of the hippie movement in Nepal. Situated near the iconic Kathmandu Durbar Square, Freak Street was a haven for Western travelers seeking spiritual enlightenment and alternative lifestyles. 

The street became synonymous with the countercultural revolution, attracting hippies, artists, and seekers from around the world.

During its heyday, Freak Street was lined with budget guesthouses, cafes, and shops that catered specifically to the needs of the hippie community. These establishments offered cheap accommodation, local and Western food, and a variety of substances that were part of the countercultural experience. Marijuana and hashish were openly sold and consumed.

11. Pass by the Swoyambhu Buddha Park

This is another Buddha Park found at the bottom of Swayambhunath Temple. Established in 2003, the park is renowned for its majestic trio of statues, with the centerpiece being the largest Buddha statue in Nepal. 

This impressive 20 m (67 ft) Shakyamuni Buddha represents the  Amitabha  form, symbolizing longevity and holding a bowl with the nectar of immortality.

Flanking this central figure are two other significant statues, each 64 feet tall. To the left stands  Avalokitesvara , embodying compassion with many arms extended to aid those in need. This figure is closely associated with the mantra “ Om Mani Padme Hum ” and is believed to be connected to the Dalai Lama as an incarnation.  On the right is Guru Rinpoche once again.

12. Take Your Time at the National Museum of Nepal

The National Museum of Nepal, also known as the Rashtriya Museum, serves as a repository of Nepal’s rich history, art, and culture, spanning several centuries.

Its collections include a wide range of artifacts, from ancient sculptures and manuscripts to traditional weapons and historical photographs. The exhibits showcase the diverse cultural heritage of Nepal, including Hindu and Buddhist art, as well as items from the various ethnic groups that make up the nation.

One of the highlights of the National Museum of Nepal is its extensive collection of coins and currency, which offers insight into the economic history of the region. It’s a term we weren’t even familar with “Numismatics.”

13. Go on a Daytrip to Lalitpur

A day trip to  Lalitpur , also known as Patan, is a must! It’s located just south of Kathmandu and one of the oldest cities in Nepal, with roots tracing back to the 3rd century BC. Known as the “City of Beauty,” Lalitpur is celebrated for its well-preserved architecture and vibrant artistic traditions.

The city’s centerpiece is Patan Durbar Square, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. This square is an architectural marvel, filled with ancient palaces, temples, and courtyards. The square is particularly famous for its intricate wood and stone carvings, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of Newar artisans. Key structures include the old royal palace and the Krishna Mandir, a stone temple built in the 17th century.

There’s so much more to see here than it meets the eye that it garners a whole article which you can check out  here .

14. Continue on to Bhaktapur

Bhaktapur , also known as Bhadgaon or Khwopa, is one of the three ancient cities in the Kathmandu Valley. If you’re going to Lalitpur, you should also check out Bhaktapur. It’s easily doable on the same day or as another separate day trip. Bhaktapur is bound to blow you away.

Historically, Bhaktapur was the capital of Nepal during the great Malla Kingdom until the second half of the 15th century. The city is filled with monuments, temples, and traditional houses that reflect the city’s glorious history and the artistic prowess of the Newar community. The entire city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site!

The heart of Bhaktapur is its very own Durbar Square, a magnificent plaza filled with ancient temples, palaces, and statues. The 55-Window Palace, built by King Bhupatindra Malla, is a standout structure known for its intricately carved windows and doors. Nearby, the Vatsala Temple, dedicated to a mother goddess, and the towering Nyatapola Temple, the tallest pagoda in Nepal. Though the  Peace Pagoda  in  Pokhara  is also a must-see!

There’s still a lot more to see in Bhaktapur as well, and if you’re planning on dropping by, make sure to check out this  article .

15. Learn more at the Military Museum

The Military Museum is an institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the military history of Nepal. Located within the premises of the Nepali Army Headquarters, this museum offers a detailed look into the evolution of the Nepalese military, its key battles, and significant figures who have shaped the nation’s defense history.

The museum features a wide range of exhibits, including historical artifacts, weaponry, uniforms, and military documents. You can explore displays that detail the Gurkha soldiers’ legendary bravery and skill, which have made them renowned worldwide. The collection includes traditional weapons like kukris (curved knives) and modern firearms, reflecting the transition from ancient to contemporary warfare.

It’s a short walking distance from the Monkey Temple or the National Temple so if you have some time, it’s worth checking out!

Where to Stay in Kathmandu

Kathmandu is not only a charming and fascinating city, but it’s also a very affordable place to hole up in for a few days.

While it caters to travelers of every budget, I can honestly say that your wallet can definitely handle a couple of days and even a few more. The quality of life is also pretty good though it does get a bit cold in the winter.

Here are some of the best places to stay in Kathmandu:

Best Hotels in Kathmandu :

• Swarga Heritage Hotel – provides free WiFi, a restaurant, free private parking, a bar, a terrace, and a shared lounge, with family rooms available. Each room includes air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with cable, an electric kettle, a private bathroom with a shower, slippers, a desk, and a closet. Daily breakfast options include à la carte, continental, or American.
• Kailash Boutique Hotel  – features concierge services, non-smoking rooms, a restaurant, free WiFi, and a terrace. Amenities include free shuttle service, a 24-hour front desk, room service, a shared lounge, and currency exchange. Rooms are air-conditioned and come with a desk, electric kettle, minibar, safety deposit box, flat-screen TV, and private bathroom. Breakfast options include buffet, à la carte, or continental.
• Everest Boutique Hotel  – features a fitness center, private parking, a terrace, and a bar. Amenities include a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk, a shared kitchen, free WiFi, room service, concierge service, and currency exchange. You can enjoy a buffet, continental, or Full English/Irish breakfast each morning.

Best Hostels in Kathmandu :

• Elbrus Home  – a well-known hostel that has been around for a long time. This is where we stayed and all I can say is it feels like home. The rooms are unassuming yet it was enough, with a private bathroom and working hot water as well. I really enjoyed the laidback vibes of the mornings. Breakfast is always good with some fruits, grains, and tea. I particularly liked the portraits of Hindu and Buddhist deities around the halls and rooms. The garden is another nice place to relax and the staff are exceptionally friendly and accomodating.
• Flock Hostel Kathmandu  – offers air-conditioned dorms with privacy curtains, luxury private rooms, a communal lounge, a library, a workspace, and a travel desk. Enjoy modern amenities like super-fast Wi-Fi, 24-hour security, smart RFID room access, luggage storage lockers, and a rooftop cocktail bar. Flock Hostel also has an excellent travel desk through its in-house agency to assist with treks, hikes, day tours, and adventure sports.
• WanderThirst Hostels  – provides a warm, shared environment for travelers from around the world, offering clean and spacious rooms categorized into dorm rooms, private rooms, and female dorm rooms, all with comfortable beds and bathrooms with hot and cold water. Each room is uniquely themed to inspire your wanderlust spirit even while relaxing.

How to Get Around Kathmandu

Navigating Kathmandu can be an adventure in itself, offering various options depending on your preferences and budget. Here’s an overview of the most common ways to get around the city:

• Minibuses: These are the primary mode of public transportation in Kathmandu. They are affordable and frequent but can be crowded and confusing for newcomers. Routes are usually fixed, and destinations are written in Nepali, so it’s helpful to ask locals or drivers for assistance.
• Tempos: These are three-wheeled electric vehicles that operate on fixed routes. They are a bit more comfortable than buses and are a popular choice for short distances within the city.
• Taxis : are widely available throughout Kathmandu. They are relatively inexpensive and convenient for door-to-door travel. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. Ride-sharing apps like Pathao and Tootle are also gaining popularity, but I found the taxi drivers in Nepal to be very honest and fair.
• Motorcycle: There are also motorbike “taxis” that can be a great and immersive way to explore Kathmandu. They can get you to your destination more quickly during rush hour as they can swerve through traffic.

How to Stay Safe in Kathmandu

While Nepal is a relatively safe country, personal safety is still paramount. Always be conscious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas such as markets and tourist attractions. Pickpocketing can be common, so keep your belongings secure. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas, though this has never really been a problem in our experience.

Having comprehensive travel insurance is crucial for covering unexpected events such as medical emergencies, theft, or trip cancellations. I recommend checking out  SafetyWing  if you need travel insurance.

Best Time to Visit Kathmandu

The best time to visit Kathmandu is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons.

In spring, Kathmandu experiences moderate temperatures with daytime highs ranging from 16°C to 25°C (61°F to 77°F). The season is marked by blooming flowers and clear skies, although occasional rain showers can occur.

Autumn is another excellent time to visit Kathmandu. From September to November, the temperatures range from 15°C to 24°C (59°F to 75°F). This season is characterized by clear skies and dry weather, providing excellent visibility of the surrounding mountains. The post-monsoon atmosphere ensures that the air is clean and fresh.

Plan Your Trip to Nepal | Best Travel Resources

Book Your Accommodations

• Booking.com  – the world’s leading online booking platform for accomodations around the world, they have an extensive amount of available listings with zero booking fees and best price guarantees.
• Hostelworld  – a backpacker’s best friend, Hostelworld has the largest collection of hostels and guesthouses for affordable prices.

Don’t Forget Insurance

• SafetyWing  – from Nomad Insurance, an insurance by nomads for nomads. They understand our lifestyle well and have really comprehensive and flexible plans that cater to any traveler.

Find Cheap Flights

• Kiwi.com  – my go-to for booking and finding the cheapest flights and it’s helped me save tons of money. They do virtual interlining which is connecting flights from airlines that do not codeshare, so you can find routes that you wouldn’t be able to find normally. 

Join Tours & Activities

• GetYourGuide  – is one of the best places to find unique tours and activities. I found that it’s an excellent way to meet fellow travelers and create fond memories. They are not only limited to tours as they also offer niche services such as skip-the-line tickets or private transfers.

Catch a Ride

• Rentalcars.com  – nothing beats the freedom of the road, Rentalcars.com is the world’s largest online car rental service. They operate across 160 countries so they’re the perfect partner to work with if you find yourself wanting a ride.

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Solo Travel Tips: Kathmandu, Nepal

I have been to Nepal twice (I actually experienced the traveler’s high there), and I still have to write a post for solo travelers! I was glad to accept this contribution from a fellow blogger, as I know that given the number of my backlog, I won’t be able to get to it soon. Read on to find some solo travel tips for Kathmandu, Nepal, as part of the Solo Travel City Guide series .

Widely regarded as the “Gateway to Mount Everest,” Nepal is a haven for all travelers, especially those who enjoy nature and active travel like hiking, mountaineering, and paragliding . Since opening their border to foreigners in 1951, climbers have been flocking into this country to challenge the world’s tallest peak.

Tourism is already a big part of Nepal’s economy, despite the damage it incurred in the earthquakes of 2015.

It is surprisingly safe, too, which is why you should go backpacking in Nepal if you’re a solo traveler. There are so many places to visit in Kathmandu, its ancient capital, that I would recommend it to anyone who wants to visit.

Getting From Kathmandu Airport to the City

There are mainly two ways of getting to Kathmandu city center from the airport. First, by cab, and second, by bus.

Once you step out of the airport, there will be plenty of cab drivers asking if you need transport. Of course, you’ll probably need to negotiate a bit, as it’s your first time in Kathmandu, a perfect prey for the drivers. Typically, it will cost you around Rs500.

If you prefer to do it the local way, squeeze through the cab drivers and head to the entrance of the airport. Then, turn left and you’ll see a bus “station” where plenty of locals are waiting for the buses.

This is how the local buses work in Kathmandu and other parts of Nepal. The conductor on the bus will shout out their destinations when the bus is approaching the bus stand.

Pay attention to the word “Ratna Park” and hop onto the bus. Once you get to Ratna Park, it will be around 20 minutes’ walk to get to Thamel, the tourists and travelers hub in Kathmandu. Your hostel is very likely to be located here.

The bus trip will cost you Rs25-35. It’ll be challenging at first, but you might enjoy the experience like I did.

Getting Around Kathmandu

There are two ways to get around the city. A single taxi trip to any destination around the city will cost you around Rs400. Most of the time, the driver will quote you Rs600-800 but feel free to not negotiate and support the local economy.

Ratna Park is the main bus station in Kathmandu, which is also the nearest bus station to Thamel. You can literally get to anywhere from this bus station. Here’s an example.

If you want to get to Boudhanath, go to Ratna Park, and look for the bus conductor shouting “Boudhanath.” If you couldn’t find any, just ask any of the conductors. Most of the Nepalese people speak English and is friendly to foreigners, especially westerners.

Once you find the bus, hop on, and take a seat. You’ll pay the fare when you get down the bus. Remember, always bring small notes with you. Most of the time, the conductors do not change.

Most of the trips around the city will cost you Rs20-30. Some further destinations, like Godavari Botanical Garden, will cost you Rs50.

Buying a SIM Card

You can literally find merchants selling SIM cards in every corner of the city. Almost every general store sells them, but the prices do vary. It will be around 3 times more expensive to buy in the airport and Thamel.

For example, an N-cell SIM Card costs Rs100 in Shangkhamul, but you’ll be quoted Rs300 if you ask the stores in Thamel. But all the cheap SIM cards are sold in the residential areas, which you probably won’t visit, so it’s easier to buy it in Thamel to save you time.

You will need to fill up a paper form, attach a photocopy of your passport, and a passport size photo to buy a SIM card. It’s a little troublesome, but you can get all of them done within 5 minutes if you have all the requirements.

Where to Stay in Kathmandu

Thamel is probably the best place to stay in Kathmandu. It’s easy to take a cab, and plenty of restaurants and bars are located there as well. At night, all the bakeries also have a discounted rate to get all of the bread sold before the night ends.

Thamel is located near the main bus station, Ratna Park, which makes getting around Kathmandu city much easier. See Aleah’s recommended places to stay in Kathmandu .

The Monkey Temple Backpackers Hostel made me extend my stay in Kathmandu City from 1 night to 4 nights. The best part of this hostel is the excellent customer service and the incomparable rooftop bar view.

The cleanliness is not top-notch, but it made me feel at home. The double rooms are spacious, and the beds are very comfortable. Due to its slightly far location from the Thamel main street, it’s not affected by the loud songs in the bar at night.

And if you’re looking for some delicious naans or aloo (potato) parathas to kickstart your day, there is a restaurant near the hostel that serves this perfect breakfast dishes.

Places to Visit in Kathmandu

Check out the large stupa of the boudhanath temple.

Boudhanath is home to one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world. Every morning, there will be monks praying around the stupa. Visit as early as 6am if you’re interested.

When you’re there, follow the crowd and walk only in a clockwise direction.

There are plenty of restaurants around the stupa so you can also enjoy a meal after your visit. The entrance fee is Rs250, and you pay at the main entrance gate. 

Climb the hill to Monkey Temple (Swayambhunath Temple)

Going to the Monkey Temple , also known as Swayambhunath, takes around 45 minutes from Thamel.

It’s recommended to walk there instead of taking a cab if you have the time. On the way, you’ll pass through residential areas, where you can witness the daily routines and activities of the Nepalese locals. It’s kinda fun to see the kids playing around without any electronic devices.

In the temple, there are ponds, a lot of statues, and some ancient structures to visit. You’ll also find rooftop bars there, where you can enjoy your drink while taking your time to admire the panoramic view of Kathmandu city from the hilltop.

The entrance fee is Rs250.

Head to Pashupatinath, a Hindu Pilgrimage site

Pashupatinath is the holiest Hindu pilgrimage site in Nepal. During the tragic earthquake back in 2015, this ancient site sustained some damages, but luckily most of the structures remain unharmed.

The entrance fee is Rs1000, with an additional of Rs1000 for a tour guide to explain everything around you. It’s recommended that you take the tour because otherwise, you won’t know what you’re looking at. There are no information boards at all in there.

If you’re wondering where to find Sadhus, the Hindu holy men you often see in magazines, this is the place. However, don’t be shocked if they quoted you a price for a photo. They could quote as high as Rs1000 so make up your mind before approaching them.

By the way, you’ll also see the burning of dead bodies here in Pashupatinath.

Go on a day trip to Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Bhaktapur is very highly recommended by many travelers who’ve been to Kathmandu. It’s a little far from Thamel, so you’ll need to spare an hour or two to get there by bus.

Due to the large site area, you’ll probably spend a good half-day or a full-day there to see all the ancient structures and traditional cultural activities like potteries.

Bhaktapur is one of the three Durbar squares in Kathmandu, the other two being Patan and Kathmandu Durbar Square. Read more about Bhaktapur Square in Aleah’s blog post.

When you’re there, be sure to try King Curd. Who knows you’ll have the chance to catch a glimpse of the living goddess, Kumari?

Check out the other places to visit in Kathmandu city and how to get to them all!

Enjoy the restaurants around Thamel

Thamel is the main tourist hub in Kathmandu, so it’s no surprise that you’ll find all kinds of restaurants there. Western cuisines are common there, but I know you’ll also enjoy the Nepalese cuisines.

For the best thukpa, I would recommend Muktinath Restaurant in Thamel. For momos, Momo Star is probably the most famous one, but I love the local stall in Sundhara. Chow Mein (fried noodles) recipes vary almost completely among every restaurant, so are the fried rice.

Dal bhat is the national staple of Nepal, and the dish is different on every restaurant. It’s basically rice with potatoes, vegetables, and sometimes meat depending on where you dine in, as side dishes, all on one plate. A perfect dish for rice lovers!

Safety Tips for Solo Travelers in Kathmandu

Robberies and thefts in kathmandu.

As previously mentioned, Nepal is exceptionally safe for travelers. Nepalese people are very civilized, and you almost never see drunkards making troubles on the streets.

At night, it becomes so quiet that it gets kinda creepy sometimes.

Crimes like robberies are rare in Kathmandu, but if you accidentally left your belongings on the street and came back to find it after 10 minutes, chances are you’ll never see it again.

Backpackers do love to leave their belongings in the hostel rooms. But never leave any valuable stuff inside the room, even though it’s locked single room. If there’s a locker, be sure to utilize them! Ask the manager if you need any help.

Food hygiene in the city

For first-timers in Kathmandu, it’s best to spend the first few days dining in proper restaurants and stay far from the street food stalls. I’ve seen a lot of travelers falling sick and hospitalized, including myself, from eating the street foods.

Let your stomach adapt to the foods there before trying anything funny like Pani Puri on the streets.

If you’re worried about budget, the prices in the restaurants do not differ that much from the street stalls. Just slightly more expensive. And there are so many restaurants in Thamel that you’ll need more than a week to try them all!

Kathmandu is very traveler-friendly, as it’s very easy to get around and safe. While you might find some culture shocks during your travel, you’ll definitely enjoy your backpacking experience there nevertheless.

Comment below if you have any questions on planning your solo travel trip to Kathmandu, Nepal!

All photos by Aleah Taboclaon.

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• Solo Travel Tips: Kathmandu, Nepal - December 23, 2019

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Backpacking Kathmandu: Everything Travelers Need To Know

Find out all you need to know about backpacking Kathmandu on a budget. Let’s talk about the accommodation, transportation, food, things to do and more in this travel guide to Kathmandu!

Nepal is one of the cheapest countries in the world and attracts a constant flow of backpackers looking to explore a new culture. Kathmandu, being an international hub, is a place which many travelers will pass through and no doubt will spend some time at.

In this backpacking Kathmandu travel guide, I will let you in on all the top things to do in Kathmandu, where to sleep, eat and more!

Kathmandu is a city full of culture and amazing sights. It is a place which will have all your senses tingling, from the spicy street food being cooked on the side of the road to the dusty clouds being blown up from the streets. If this is your first time visiting you may find the city a little overwhelming. There is a lot going on in the tight streets, though that’s why I have created this backpacking Kathmandu travel guide to help make your visit a little easier!

Backpacking Kathmandu For Budget Travelers: Top Travel Tips

• How Many Days To Spend In Kathmandu
• Cost Per Day In Kathmandu
• Where To Stay In Kathmandu
• Tribhuvan Airport To Thamel
• Getting Around Kathmandu
• Where To Eat In Kathmandu

Safety In Kathmandu

• Things To Do In Kathmandu

How Many Days To Spend Backpacking Kathmandu?

No doubt you will visit Kathmandu on two separate occasions, on your arrival and departure in Nepal. When you arrive in the country I recommend spending at least 3 days in the city. That way it will allow you to gather your bearings and see some of the amazing sights of Kathmandu , giving you a great introduction to Nepal.

Assuming you will be flying out of the country at Tribhuvan International Airport, I recommend arriving back in Kathmandu at least a day before your flight out. The roads in Nepal are not the best and public transport (even tourist buses) never run on time. Prepare to be late as it is inevitable and bring snacks to make the long journeys more pleasurable.

Further down in this backpacking Kathmandu travel guide I will let you know the best things to see in this amazing city.

Cost Per Day For Backpacking Kathmandu

Even though Nepal is one of the cheapest countries in the world you will still have to spend money. You can spend as little as $10.00 to as much as $50.00 per day, depending on your travel style. For example, I paid as little as $3.75 for a dorm room and as much as $15.00 for a shared double room with a private bathroom ($7.50 each).

Consuming meals at local eateries and staying in dorm rooms will definitely help keep the budget down. If you manage to find a hostel or hotel that includes breakfast even better on the wallet. Overall I would budget approximately $20.00 per day for a backpacking Kathmandu budget to stay on the safe side. This will allow you to splurge on certain activities, have a somewhat decent bed to rest in and some delicious momo filled meals.

Where To Stay In Kathmandu?

Kathmandu is a massive city with numerous suburbs, though there is definitely one particular area where all the travelers like to stay and that is Thamel. Staying in Thamel will allow you to be among all the action in a very tourist-friendly part of the city. Also if you do plan on trekking staying in Thamel will mean you are just a short walk away from the permit offices.

Here are my top picks for the backpacking Kathmandu travel guide:

Getting Around While Backpacking Kathmandu

Getting from tribhuvan airport to thamel.

There are a variety of options to get from Tribhuvan Airport to your accommodation in Thamel. These come in the options of pre-arranged transfers, prepaid taxis, taxis or the local bus.

Though, before we get into all that I just want to put emphasis on keeping your luggage safe in Tribhuvan Airport. This airport is notorious for bags going missing (due to minimal security) or bags arriving damaged. Therefore keep all items of value in your carry on to keep them safe including fragile items. Also, remember to use a lock on your bag to deter any theft.

It honestly took us nearly an hour after going through immigration and receiving the visa on arrival before the first bag came through on the baggage carousel. A lot could have happened in this 60-minute wait, though luckily for us nothing did. Just be prepared and have some water to keep you hydrated.

Lastly, be aware of the common airport baggage cart collectors which can be found all over the world. If you are not interested firmly say no and don’t let go of your bags. If you are interested this person will expect a tip once done and having arrived in a new country it is likely you have no small local notes. Just be aware of this, though most will accept foreign currencies.

Now let’s jump into these transportation options from Thribvan Aiport to Thamel to figure out what is best for you…

Pre-Arranged Hotel Transfer

No doubt one of the easiest options between getting from an airport to your hotel is to prebook a transfer from your accommodation previous to arriving. There will be someone waiting for you at the airport with a sign resulting in a hassle-free experience. Though, this option does cost more than a regular taxi because of its convenience.

If you are arriving in Nepal late at night or have never been in the country before this could be the perfect option for you. It will save you from worry about getting ripped off and ensure a smooth start to your Nepal journey. Also if you happen to be in Nepal on a trekking or tour package these will oftentimes include an airport transfer so make sure to confirm that!

Prepaid Taxi

Prepaid Taxis are generally my go-to option when arriving in a new country. It means I do not have to stress about arguing with a regular taxi driver to not get ripped off, making my first hour in somewhere a more enjoyable experience.

The prepaid rate from Tribhuvan Airport to Thamel is about 700-800 NRS, though this will increase late at night. The desk is easy to find before you exit through the arrival doors.

Though I am not going to lie, I did have issues with the prepaid taxis in Nepal. The issue was not with the service itself, but with a taxi driver who seemingly was trying to take advantage of us being first-timers in Nepal. First of all, he had no idea where our accommodation was, assuming it was somewhere in Thamel, though it was in the next neighborhood across. We noticed he was going the wrong way on our Maps.Me app and tried to explain it to him. Eventually, he called our accommodation and had a hissy fit as we were not staying in Thamel, even though my receipt said the correct suburb, which he was not happy about.

In the end, he stopped a couple of hundred meters from our hostel, refusing to drive any further. We got out on an unlit dirt road and walked the remainder of the distance.

Regular Taxi

A no preparation needed option, the regular taxi. It is an easy option to get into the city, though you will need to barter heavily to receive a decent price. The cheapest you will be able to get to Thamel will be 400-500NRS, but unless you are a good negotiator you will definitely be paying more than this.

If you are just looking for a cheap option and are not worried about getting into the city then the local bus might just be the best option for you. Head to the airport gate which is about 500 meters from the terminal. Though be aware there are no set schedules, so be prepared to wait a while. Luckily, the ticket should only cost 10-20NRS depending on where you are going, so for this price, you cannot complain too much.

Traveling Within Kathmandu

I highly recommend downloading the offline map of Kathmandu on the Maps.Me app for your cell phone. Also when flying into Kathmandu you can pick up one of the free maps at the airport to help you get around. The problem with navigating around Kathmandu is the minimal street names which can make receiving directions a little complicated. Places are often referred to by the nearest landmarks, rather than roads, though if you are new to a place none of these will be familiar.

Using an offline map on your phone will allow you to see your exact location and how to get to your destination. This is one thing I always make sure I have before arriving in a new destination.

It is relatively easy enough to travel around Kathmandu on foot, though for far distances this is not a reasonable mode of transport, especially when taxis are quite cheap.

Many of the streets in Thamel and the surrounding areas in Kathmandu are just flat dusty surfaces. If you are walking a smart idea might be to buy a breath mask which will prevent you from inhaling the major dust clouds. These are for sale on many streets and trust me you won’t be the only person wearing one.

Rickshaws and Taxis

You will easily be able to find plenty of taxis and rickshaws around the tourist area of Thamel. Ensure your taxi uses the meter to avoid being ripped off. If a driver is refusing to use the meter, just walk away and find a new taxi, there will be plenty around.

Rates after dark will go up, as well as if you are in a quieter area of the city. If you are wishing to test your negotiating skills just be aware you will likely be paying at least twice as much as the metered price.

You will find plenty of buses which you can take to other parts of the valley such as Patan, Bakhtapur and Boudha. You will see blue buses and green buses driving around. These ones go in circles around Kathmandu on what is known as Ring Road for between 20-35 NRS. Just be aware that from Thamel it is approximately a 1.5km walk to Ring Road and that there are no signs for navigating around.

Taking the bus around Kathmandu can be an experience in itself. You will have the opportunity to interact with many locals and observe their daily life. Just make sure to have small notes for the journey!

Where To Eat & Drink In Kathmandu

From local street stalls to shack-like eateries and western restaurants, Kathmandu has a wide variety of foodie options. For the food options, I will list those just within the Thamel area as this is likely where you will be staying. These are my top picks, all tested and tried, for the backpackers travel guide to Kathmandu:

Cheap Food In Kathmandu

You cannot visit Nepal without trying Momos. My go-to favorite is the Thamel Momo Hut . The staff there are amazing and the food is delicious. Grab a few friends and order a variety of dishes so you can share the momo goodness around.

Feeling like Indian style food in Kathmandu, you cannot miss Western Tandoori . It may not look like much from out front, but the delicious curries are an absolute delight, plus delicious naan bread. If you are looking at getting the most bang for your buck, then you cannot miss this cheap eat in Kathmandu.

Western Food In Kathmandu

Now when I say I ate at French Bakery two days straight I am not lying. This place gave us a little bit of Aussie/NZ nostalgia when we were feeling quite homesick. Feeling brave? Then you must try their vegemite coffee, it’s quite a hit!

Their cakes are unbeatable, making this joint the perfect place to come on a bit of a date night. The staff is absolutely amazing, always keen to have a bit of a laugh and I honestly cannot fault the French Bakery at all!

Local Dishes You Must Try

Nepal has plenty of delicious local dishes that you must try, way more than just their famous momos! Make sure to try out sel roti, bara, chatamari, sandheko and of course, dal baht!

Kathmandu is a relatively safe place to explore with the exception of the many scams you will find in Asian countries. Be careful when walking around at night, many of the streets do not have street lights which can lead to multiple hazardous situations. Whether that is an opportunistic person or large potholes. If you have to go out just use your phone light to guide the way and try to venture out in a group.

The second thing I will mention is regards to safety in Kathmandu is water-borne diseases. Under no circumstance should you consume drink water directly from the tap. Be careful when eating salads or having ice in your drink when eating out. Also, make sure the water bottles you purchase from stores are sealed correctly and are not leaking as this can be a sign of tampering. It is best to use the bottled water for brushing your teeth as well.

Things To Do While Backpacking Kathmandu

Kathmandu is full of amazing activities and attractions which will keep you busy for days. Whether you enjoy a spot of shopping, experiencing a different religion, and want to see some epic scenery, there are so many amazing things to see and do in Kathmandu .

Kathmandu Durbar Square

No doubt the most popular UNESCO World Heritage Site in Nepal is Kathmandu’s Durbar Square. It was built around 1000AD and has been occupied ever since. The entrance fee is 1000NPR for foreigners, though there are multi-day passes available if desired. Come in the early mornings to witness the many merchants setting up their stalls. This is also the perfect time to do a little bit of souvenir shopping as it is believed the first sale of the day is a lucky one. Therefore, you will likely receive a lower price to help the seller make a lucky start to their day.

If you are not interested in shopping it is still well worth the visit. It is the perfect place to people watch and appreciate the religion while watching the locals place their offerings at the many shrines and temples which fill Durbar Square. Lastly, just be aware of the young men offering to be guides. They can be very pushy, so if you are not interested, firmly decline.

Swayambhu (Monkey Temple)

Swayambhu is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in all of Nepal, making it a must-visit when backpacking Kathmandu. It is an easy 30-minute walk from Thamel, though the streets can be a bit confusing so make sure to have a map or download a map on your phone. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or rickshaw there as well.

To get to the top there are 350 steps to climb up. You can enjoy some beautiful views over the city of Kathmandu as well as appreciate the ancient carvings which cover every space available. At the top, there are plenty of drinks for sale, as well as a restaurant selling a variety of momos.

It is another one of the seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Kathmandu Valley which cannot be missed. The entry fee is 200NRS for a single entry ticket.

You cannot miss hitting the shops when backpacking Kathmandu. You can pick up some really awesome and affordable souvenirs which are perfect to take home. For example, I picked up 2 woolen ponchos, one cost $16.00 (imported from India) and the other cost $20.00. We also picked up a few postcards and posters from a bookstore with fixed prices.

In Pokhara we tried to go shopping thinking the prices there would be cheaper, especially compared with the prices in touristy Thamel. We could not find any reasonably priced items in Pokhara and nearly went home without anything. Luckily a couple of hours walking around Thamel quickly changed this!

Also, if you are after trekking gear, Thamel is home to plenty of good quality knock-off brands. Just make sure to haggle hard and check the seams to assist with determining the quality and how long you can expect the item to last.

Bauddhanath Stupa

Located in Boudha this is another one of the many UNESCO World Heritage sites in Kathmandu. This is an incredible place to visit being one of the most sacred sites for Tibetan Buddhism and is one of the largest stupas in the world!

The entry ticket costs 400NRS for a single entry ticket.

Mountain Flights

Trekking Everest Base Camp is the reason many tourists come to Nepal. Though if you are not planning on hiking in the Himalayas I highly recommend taking a mountain flight. You will be able to appreciate the true beauty of Nepal and really get to experience the contrast of the bustling city of Kathmandu.

You will find numerous tourist agencies selling Himalaya flights and many advertising posters all around Thamel. Generally, the majority of airlines offer one-hour flights which depart between 6.30am to 9.00am when the weather is best. Expect to pay around $200USD and you will need to book ahead of time in the high season, as the flights will likely sell out.

For a more unique experience, you can also take a helicopter tour to Everest base camp which roughly costs $1000 per person. It is a four-hour flight with two stops: Everest View Hotel and Kalapathar (5,644 m/18517). Magical Nepal Operate this tour on a sharing basis.

Any Questions? Let me know in the comments!

• WHERE TO EAT IN POKHARA FOR ALL BUDGETS!
• POKHARA TO BESISAHAR & BAHUNDANDA- STARTING THE ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT
• ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT ITINERARY & GUIDE
• FLYING JOMSOM TO POKHARA
• HIKING THE HIGHEST TREKKING PASS IN THE WORLD: THORONG LA PASS

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. So, if you click on it and purchase something, I get a small percentage at no extra cost to you. As always all opinions are my own and your support is much appreciated.

Photo credit :” Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, Nepal” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by Sharada Prasad CS . “ New Road ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by Michael Cornelius . “ 2018-03-25 ” & “ 2018-03-24 ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by Guillaume Baviere . “ 2007-11-1039 ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by Vyacheslav Argenberg . “ Boudhanath stupa, Kathmandu, Nepal ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by SarahTz . “ Kathmandu, Nepal ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by Juan Antonio Segal . “37511-Kathmandu ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by xiquinhosilva .

Tasha Amy is a true backpacker at heart and has been discovering the world on a budget since 2015. Based in Gisborne, New Zealand she will spend many months each year traveling overseas as a solo female traveler before coming home and sharing her adventures online with you.

11 thoughts on “ Backpacking Kathmandu: Everything Travelers Need To Know ”

This comprehensive Kathmandu travel guide is a treasure trove of insights, from off-the-beaten-path gems to budget-friendly tips, providing solo backpackers like myself with invaluable advice for an immersive and culturally rich experience in this vibrant city.

Glad you found it helpful

If you are planning to visit Nepal for trekking or any other purpose, it is highly recommended to experience Kathmandu sightseeing. The city is known for its rich cultural legacy and historical sites, which can greatly enhance your overall trip.

If you are planning to visit Nepal for trekking or any purpose, Experience Kathmandu Sightseeing, the rich cultural legacy and historical sites of the area before or after the trip.

If you are planning to trek and tour Nepal, backpacking is most you will get in Kathmandu. Please explore the Kathmandu valley.

A piece of complete information for travelers. Thanks for sharing it.

Tasha, this guide is not only detailed but is also a visual treat esp with the prayer flags. Thanks for a heads up regarding the Taxi rate negotiations and of course the notorious airport baggage cart collectors!

I always wondered how much of a difference it made, coming to Nepal with an Asian face that can even be mistaken for Nepali! The transport prices look about the same as I experienced last year, but I definitely experienced way less backtalk and touts than you.

Pokhara Lakeside is not cheap – all the trekkers congregating there, you know. But for Kathmandu, there is a shopping district just next to Thamel which is more local, and the prices are cheaper there. Not as many ‘touristy’ products, but if you’re looking for practical stuff like trekking gear, it’s a good option.

Kathmandu is such an interesting city, isn’t it? There are the temples, the busyness of bureaucratic Nepal, and then the hippie vibe. The food is great and the views are spectacular. Loved your photos :)

Fab shot of Bauddhanath Stupa. When we were there is April not many people made the effort to visit it! Such a shame as its awesome – a real highlight of Kathmandu

I am heading there soon and can’t wait to try out all the food you recommended. The thing is I am Indian and I know that Indian and Nepalese food are somewhat similar. What I am curious to note is the subtle differences. Thanks for the recommendations on hostels as well. I normally just go with Z but 8848 looks really nice.

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Namobuddha Monastery Hiking Day Trip from Kathmandu

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This 5-hour private day trip starts from Kathmandu and takes you to hike the hill of Namobuddha, at 1750 meters altitude atop the Panauti village. Spend a day away from the busy city enjoying gorgeous views of the surrounding mountain and the valleys below. On top of Namobudha is the grand and beautiful Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery from where a panoramic view of Panauti and Khopasi villages can be seen. It's also believed that Lord Buddha in his past life as a prince had offered his body to a hungry tigress whose five cubs were starving since she was so frail and weak to go out hunting. Namobuddha Stupa houses the remains of the kind-hearted prince which is closer to the Namobuddha monastery. The hike starts from the medieval town of Panauti passing along farmland, small woodlands, and villages toward the top of Namobuddha. Upon reaching Namobuddha, visit the monastery, shrine enjoying panoramic views all around. Afterward, drive back to Kathmandu and drop off at your hotel.

Ticket Information

• Mobile or paper ticket accepted
• One per booking

What's Included

• Packed lunch & mineral water during the tour
• Private guide
• Private transportation
• Hotel pick-up and drop off
• Walking pole if needed

What's not Included

• Drinks and additional food

Cancellation Policy

• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Additional Info

• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Minimum age is 3 years
• Comfortable shoes are recommended

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4 tips for Black travellers visiting Morocco

I’ve already made four trips to Morocco, but even then, I’ve barely scratched the surface of its incredible beaches, mountains and markets. When I was offered a trip back, this time with Intrepid, I was excited to dive back into the history, landscapes and culture of this North African again. At the same time, I know it’s not the easiest country to travel in. 

As a Black woman, I’ve encountered many instances of racism, microaggressions and sexual harassment abroad, and unfortunately, I faced many problematic situations in Morocco too. Yet, despite its challenges, Morocco has plenty to offer.

One of the ways I like to prepare before travelling is by hearing from those who have done it before. If you want to visit Morocco with more confidence and ease but aren’t sure what to expect, let me share some tips.

1. Do your research before any trip 

If you’re reading this, you’re already doing your research, which can help you avoid common pitfalls and guide your journey. Don’t forget to check the sociopolitical climate of any country before travelling.

Beyond reading about my experience, look up what it’s like to travel as a Black person in Morocco on Google and social media. You’ll find personal accounts from other Black travellers about their experiences in the country. Black travel sites like Travel Noire and my platform Melanin Travel also post regular content on what it means to be a Black traveller worldwide.  

You may not want to, but you will likely stand out and attract attention as a Black traveller in Morocco. Even more so if you don’t adhere to the local dress codes and customs. 

Morocco is a Muslim country, so remember to dress modestly and err on the side of caution. Be respectful while visiting religious sites and mindful of local etiquette like removing shoes before entering mosques, tipping and not drinking in public areas. 

2. Explore Morocco outside of Marrakech

The crowded, sometimes chaotic vibes of Marrakech are what travellers normally expect of Morocco, so the city serves as a great introduction, but there’s so much more to see. It was easier to do this with Intrepid as we visited multiple cities in one trip.

Each place in Morocco has a different personality. I encourage you to find where you feel most confident and happy exploring. Once you venture out beyond the Red City of Marrakech, you’ll discover a quieter and calmer side of Morocco. 

I loved the ancient feel of the world’s oldest medina in Fez. We explored the narrow pathways and soaked up the culture of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. I felt at peace walking through the blue homes of Chefchaouen as a handful of people greeted me and complimented my outfit. While there was still some name-calling, it was isolated to particular areas instead of experienced multiple times throughout the day, as in Marrakech.  

After exploring other cities, going to a cosmopolitan city like Casablanca can be a bit unexpected. It’s very modern and feels different to the rest of Morocco. Then there was the coastline and scenery in the quaint beach town of Asilah – once Spanish territory – which transported me to Southern Europe. In Asilah, you will even find Valencian dishes like paella and tortilla. 

3. Prepare yourself for the inevitable

Every time I visit Morocco, I get called Mama Africa, Michelle Obama, Beyonce or Naomi Campbell countless times, or I feel hypersexualised by being catcalled. I get loads of stares as I walk down the street, especially if I’m alone. Some stares are tense, and some are curious. No matter how hard I try, I never blend in. 

Being so visible all the time is overwhelming at best, but once I knew that it was just going to be part of the experience, it helped me mentally prepare for it. I was honest with myself and who I wanted to travel with because I only wanted supportive people around me. You can’t escape the negatives of travelling while Black, but you can be equipped with the knowledge so you can focus on enjoying your trip as much as you can.

However, if you face an unpleasant experience abroad, my advice is to prioritise your safety and do whatever feels right for you in that moment. Your sense of safety is personal and unique, so trying to mimic how someone else might respond could potentially be harmful. Always trust your instincts. 

4. Travel with a group

I’m a solo traveller at heart, but I really appreciate group travel. When another person looks like you on a trip, you won’t feel completely alone in your experiences, thoughts and actions. 

There were other people of colour on my trip, one a Black man, so I felt understood without needing to explain certain things. Most importantly, race wasn’t at the forefront of our conversations as it often can be with others you meet while travelling.

The leader on your trip matters too. I’ve felt alienated by guides on random tours I’ve booked before and had them make my race an uncomfortable topic, but I never felt that way with Abdellah Bouraihan , our Intrepid leader.

Abdellah was a godsend. Of course, he gave us in-depth information on Morocco, but he also helped me as a mediator and translator during difficult situations that could have been more challenging to diffuse if I were alone. Having support on-hand 24/7 allowed me to relax.

Plus, things that would generally be stressful, such as booking transport and tours, were already taken care of, so I could focus on having a good time. All I had to do was show up and take in Morocco’s beauty. I’d choose that feeling as a Black traveller any day.

See Morocco for yourself on one of Intrepid’s 30+ trips in the country. Vivienne travelled as a guest of Intrepid. Follow her adventures on Instagram at @travellingwithmelanin .

Feeling inspired?

Vivienne Dovi

Vivienne Dovi is the Founder of Melanin Travel, a digital platform curating events, resources and content for the African Diaspora. Combining her 20+ years of travel and passion for diversity, Vivienne has turned her lived experiences into a bustling community to highlight the nuanced realities that travellers of the African diaspora face.

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Kathmandu travel guide

Kathmandu tourism | kathmandu guide, you're going to love kathmandu.

With 1,44 million inhabitants, Kathmandu is the most populous city in Nepal. It is the most popular tourist destination in the country. Kathmandu deserves at least 2 full days for you to see its main sights.

When to visit Kathmandu

Looking for warm weather? Then head to Kathmandu in June, when the average temperature is 23 °C, and the highest can go up to 26 °C. The coldest month, on the other hand, is January, when it can get as cold as 4 °C, with an average temperature of 10 °C. You’re likely to see more rain in July, when precipitation is around 370 mm. In contrast, November is usually the driest month of the year in Kathmandu, with an average rainfall of 0 mm.

How to Get to Kathmandu

When flying to Kathmandu, you’ll arrive at Kathmandu Tribhuvan (KTM), which is located 4 km from the city centre. Airlines that fly from India to Kathmandu include IndiGo, KLM and Nepal Airlines. The shortest flight to Kathmandu from India departs from New Delhi and takes around 1h 30m.

Kathmandu’s bus station is located 1.5 km from the city centre.

Airports near Kathmandu

Airlines serving kathmandu, where to stay in kathmandu.

From 5-star hotels such as the Kathmandu Marriott Hotel to great affordable options like the Thamel Boutique Hotel, Kathmandu offers a range of accommodations for every taste. Average rates range from around ₹ 1,761 per night for a double room in a 3-star hotel to ₹ 6,614 and up for a 5-star experience. If you’re on a budget, well-reviewed accommodations include Kathmandu Boutique Hotel and Yakety Yak Hostel. There are also lots of holiday rental options in Kathmandu, with prices from ₹ 501 to ₹ 18,446 per night. Thamel is the neighbourhood with the highest amount of rentals to choose from. On average, holiday rentals in Kathmandu are about 31% cheaper than a hotel room in the city.

Where to stay in popular areas of Kathmandu

Most booked hotels in kathmandu, hiring a car in kathmandu.

Hiring a car in Kathmandu costs ₹ 8,460 per day, on average, or ₹ 16,920 if you want to hire it for 2 days.

Expect to pay ₹ 107 per litre in Kathmandu (average price from the past 30 days). Depending on the size of your car hire, filling up the tank will cost between ₹ 1,282 and ₹ 1,709.

Discover Nepal's Wonders with Seamless Mobility: Rent a Car in Nepal and Unleash Adventure

S ituated between the two larger countries of India and China and surrounded by the beautiful Himalayan peaks, Nepal remains one of the top destinations among travelers.

Its stunning landscapes, rich cultures, friendly and welcoming people, along with boundless adventures, continue to captivate visitors from around the globe.

Exploring this diverse and beautiful country demands reliable transportation, making service of vehicle rental in Nepal an essential component of travel planning.

If you are traveling to Nepal, you should consider some of the Dos and Don’ts in Nepal. Nepal is undoubtedly one of the best places in the world to visit. You will get to explore the traditional culture and ancient cultural heritages of Nepal preserved to date.

Nepal has numerous cultural practices that may appear unusual to a person on his/her first visit to the country.  However to enjoy your stay in this remarkable Himalayan country.  It is important to take into consideration of the varieties of the cultural aspects of the country.

Nepal is a melting pot of different local ethnic cultures and regional cultures. It’s a known fact that 80% of the population is Hindu. But there are also significant Buddhist and Muslim communities. Religion plays an important role in daily life, and many festivals and rituals are based on religious traditions.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about vehicle rental in Nepal, from the types of vehicles available to safety tips.

Reasons to Rent a Car in Nepal

Renting a car in Nepal can offer several advantages, especially for travelers looking to explore the diverse landscapes and cultural attractions of the country.

• Flexibility and Independence
• Remote Locations: Renting a car provides the freedom to venture into remote areas such as the Himalayas, national parks, and off-the-beaten-path villages, where public transportation may be limited.
•  Customized Itinerary: It allows you to create a personalized itinerary and travel at your own pace, making spontaneous stops and detours along the way.
• Scenic Drives and Exploration
• Breathtaking Landscapes: Nepal's scenic roads, including the famous Kathmandu Valley, offer stunning views of mountains, countryside, and historic sites, best experienced through a self-driven or chauffeured car.
• Cultural Immersion: A car enables access to lesser-known cultural sites, temples, and rural communities, providing a deeper immersion into the local way of life.
• Convenience and Comfort
• Comfortable Travel : Renting a car ensures comfort and convenience, especially for families or groups, as it provides a private and secure mode of transportation.
• Time Efficiency : It can save time by eliminating the need to adhere to public transportation schedules and waiting for connections.
• Accessibility to Adventure Activities
• Hiking and Trekking: Having a rental car can facilitate access to various trekking trailheads and adventure sports destinations, allowing for seamless transportation to and from these activities.
• Rural and Urban Connectivity
• Exploring Beyond Cities: A rental car enables exploration beyond major cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara, providing access to rural areas, national parks, and hidden gems that might not be easily reachable by public transport.

Car Rental in Nepal can enhance the overall travel experience by offering freedom, flexibility, and the ability to delve deeper into the country's rich natural and cultural diversity. 

Additionally, it can be a practical choice for those seeking convenience and comfort while navigating Nepal's diverse terrain. Long-Distance Travel: If you plan to venture beyond the city, renting a car is ideal. It’s especially useful for road trips to scenic places, hill stations, or national parks.

Types of Vehicles are available to Rent in Nepal:

In Nepal, you can find a variety of vehicles available for rent through different car rental agencies, offering options to suit various travel needs. For off-road expeditions and mountainous terrains, specialized vehicle rental services offer four-wheel-drive vehicles and minibuses tailored to accommodate larger groups and rugged landscapes. 

Here are some of the types of vehicles commonly available for rental in Nepal:

Jeep (2WD/4WD)

Van (Mini / Big)

Bus (Mini/Big)

Toyota Landcruizer

Toyota Coaster

TATA, Volkswagen, Toyota, Skoda, Ford, and Suzuki brand cars. These options cater to different group sizes and travel preferences, providing a range of choices for travelers looking to rent a vehicle in Nepal.

Reasons to Avoid Self-Driving Car in Nepal

Nepal, it is generally not recommended for tourists to self-drive a car in Nepal. Instead, tourists are advised to hire a local driver. Renting a car with a driver can have several benefits, especially in countries like Nepal where road conditions and traffic can be challenging for visitors. At our company, we understand that renting a car can be stressful, especially when traveling to a new place.

That’s why Kathmandu Car Services strive to make the car rental process as simple and convenient as possible. Our goal is to provide our customers with reliable, safe, and comfortable transportation, whether they’re traveling for business or pleasure.

Popular Destinations and Routes in Nepal.

Journey to discover the breathtaking beauty of Nepal’s renowned tourist destinations and picturesque routes. From the colorful and busy streets of Kathmandu to the peaceful lakes of Pokhara and from the birthplace of Lord Buddha, Lumbini, to the home of the Rhino, Chitwan National Park, vehicle rental services help you unlock doors to unforgettable experiences and awe-inspiring landscapes.

Best Time to Rent a Car in Nepal

The best time to rent a cars in Nepal largely aligns with the best time to travel based on the intended activities and weather conditions. Here are some additional considerations:

• Spring and Autumn:
• These seasons offer the most favorable weather for both road travel and outdoor activities, making them ideal for renting a car to explore Nepal's diverse landscapes and cultural attractions.
• While high-altitude regions may experience snow and cold temperatures, renting a car for exploring low-altitude areas and cultural sites can still be a viable option during this season.
• Monsoon Season:
• Renting a car during the monsoon season (June to August) may pose challenges due to heavy rainfall, landslides, and slippery road conditions, especially in remote areas.

Ultimately, the best time to rent a car in Nepal coincides with the seasons that best align with your travel plans and preferences, ensuring an enjoyable and safe exploration of the country's natural and cultural wonders.

Conclusion:

Renting a vehicle in Nepal opens doors to endless exploration and discovery of this incredible country. Adapt to the diversity of Nepal’s landscapes and cultural heritage with the convenience and flexibility of a rented vehicle.

For personalized rental options, Kathmandu Car Services stands as your trusted partner. Feel free to reach out to us today for a quote and let us take you on your Nepal adventure with confidence.

Yes, Kathmandu Car Services has been recognized as a 2020, 2021, 2023 Travelers’ Choice award winner in the transportation category on Tripadvisor.com. This accolade celebrates businesses that consistently receive outstanding traveler reviews on TripAdvisor, indicating the company's commitment to providing exceptional services for Kathmandu Airport Transfers to its customers.

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The Socks in Eden ($40) socks from TAFT go a long way for dads who travel this Father’s Day.

It’s cliche but true — a good pair of socks sets the foundation for long day on your feet and, let’s be honest, Dad isn’t buying socks for himself. Summer travel season lines up perfectly with Father’s Day, so why not lean in to the quintessential Father’s Day gift, and find a one-of-a-kind source of comfort that looks good on his feet too?

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Mongolian Gallery Wool Long socks ($30) are incredibly luxurious and durable. Pictured here in cream ... [+] with brown striping.

The fine blend of cashmere and wool in men’s socks makes the Mongolian Gallery Cashmere and Wool Long socks ($30) incredibly luxurious and durable. For Dads who like to camp, hike, ski and participate in outdoor sports during the colder months, these cashmere and wool blend socks from Mongolian Gallery are also very warm. Mongolian Gallery also makes camel wool socks, yak wool socks and blue sheep wool socks .

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TAFT Socks in Eden ($40) in stylish and vibrant floral patterns.

The Socks in Eden ($40) socks from TAFT go a long way for dads who travel this Father’s Day. They’re stunning and stylish with vibrant floral patterns to compliment any outfit, and the dashing 3-pack gets dads through the rigors of travel with smart sophistication. They also make a fetching 100 percent cotton Crew Sock in Green Duck Squad ($15).

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Icebreaker Men’s Merino Lifestyle Light Crew Socks ($21).

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