Kathmandu Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Kathmandu with our comprehensive guide. Explore the rich culture, food scene, outdoor adventures, and nearby destinations of Nepal's vibrant capital city.


Introduction to Kathmandu

Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is a vibrant destination that boasts a rich culture, art, and history. It’s nestled in the picturesque Kathmandu Valley, surrounded by majestic mountains and scenic landscapes. Unsurprisingly, it’s a popular destination for travelers looking to explore the cultural and natural wonders of Nepal. Kathmandu is also known for its bustling bazaars, where you can find traditional handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry.

List of Places to Visit in Kathmandu

There are plenty of things to do and see in Kathmandu. Here are some must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Swayambhunath Stupa: Also known as the Monkey Temple, this Buddhist temple is an iconic landmark of Kathmandu. It’s perched on top of a hill and offers breathtaking views of the city.
  • Kathmandu Durbar Square: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to numerous palaces, temples, and shrines that date back to the 12th century. It’s a historical and cultural center of Kathmandu.
  • Narayanhiti Palace Museum: This former royal palace of Nepal has now been converted into a museum. It showcases the country’s history, culture, and art through various exhibits and artifacts.
  • Pashupatinath Temple: A sacred Hindu temple located near the Bagmati River. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a revered site for Hindus worldwide.

Natural Attractions of Kathmandu: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Chandragiri Hills: This scenic hill station offers panoramic views of the Himalayas and the valley. It’s an ideal location for hiking, cable car rides, and taking in the sunset.
  • Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park: This nature reserve is home to diverse flora and fauna, including over 170 species of birds. It’s a popular spot for hiking and bird watching.
  • Phulchowki Hill: The highest hill near Kathmandu, Phulchowki offers a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. You can trek to the summit or take a cable car.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kathmandu

Kathmandu is a hiker’s paradise, with plenty of scenic trails that offer breathtaking views of the valley and the mountains. Here are some popular hiking and biking routes:

  • Shivapuri National Park Trek: This day trek takes you through the beautiful forested paths of the national park and offers stunning views of the Langtang and Everest ranges.
  • Kathmandu Valley Rim Bike Tour: This scenic bike tour takes you through beautiful ancient temples, terraced farms, and mesmerizing mountain views.
  • Chisapani Nagarkot Trek: This 2-day trek offers picturesque sunrise and sunset views of the Himalayas, as well as stunning views of Kathmandu Valley.

Best Things to Do in Kathmandu: Activities and Tours

Apart from visiting the cultural and natural attractions, there are several activities and tours that you can enjoy in Kathmandu:

  • Mt Everest Flight Tour: A scenic one-hour flight over Mount Everest and the Himalayan range that offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks.
  • Bungee Jumping: Adrenaline junkies will love bungee jumping over the raging Bhote Koshi River near Kathmandu.
  • Nepali Cooking Class: Learn to make traditional Nepali dishes such as momos, chow mein, and dal bhat from expert chefs.
  • White Water Rafting: The Trishuli River near Kathmandu offers thrilling white water rafting experiences for all skill levels.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kathmandu

Here’s a week-long itinerary that covers the best of Kathmandu:

Day Activities and Places to Visit
Day 1 Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa
Day 2 Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Changu Narayan Temple
Day 3 Patan Durbar Square, Krishna Mandir
Day 4 Swayambhunath Stupa, Kathmandu Durbar Square
Day 5 Chandragiri Hills, Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park
Day 6 Phulchowki Hill, Namobuddha Monastery
Day 7 Flee Market, Nepali Cooking Class

Food and Drink Scene of Kathmandu

Kathmandu’s food scene is a delightful mix of traditional Nepali cuisine and international flavors. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Dal Bhat: A traditional Nepali dish consisting of steamed rice, lentil soup, curry, and veggies.
  • Momos: Steamed or fried dumplings filled with meat, veggies, or cheese.
  • Chow Mein: Fried noodles with veggies, chicken, or meat.
  • Newari Khaja Set: A popular platter of traditional Newari dishes such as beaten rice, roasted meat, and spicy achar.

Local Beverages

  • Chang: A traditional Nepali alcoholic beverage made from fermented millet or rice.
  • Chai Tea: A flavorful and aromatic tea made with milk, cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom.
  • Lassi: A refreshing drink made with yogurt, sugar, and fruit.

Where to Stay in Kathmandu: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kathmandu offers plenty of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Here are some popular places to stay:

  • Hyatt Regency Kathmandu: A luxurious 5-star hotel with world-class amenities and stunning views of the Himalayas.
  • Kathmandu Guest House: A historic guesthouse that’s been around since the 1960s. It offers affordable rooms and a lively atmosphere.
  • Thamel Eco Resort: A modern hotel located in the heart of Thamel, the popular tourist district of Kathmandu. It’s eco-friendly, and its rooftop garden offers stunning views of the city.

What to Buy in Kathmandu: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Kathmandu is a shopper’s paradise, with plenty of shops and markets selling traditional handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry. Here are some popular items to bring home:

  • Pashmina shawls and scarves: Made from wool sourced from the Himalayan goats, these shawls and scarves are soft, warm, and come in vibrant colors.
  • Thangka paintings: Intricately hand-painted traditional Buddhist paintings on silk or cotton.
  • Knives and swords: Traditional Gurkha knives and swords made by skilled craftsmen.
  • Singing bowls: Hand-hammered brass bowls that produce soothing sounds when struck.

Local Culture and Customs of Kathmandu

Kathmandu is a culturally rich city with unique customs and traditions. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Dress modestly: Modesty is a key cultural value in Nepal. Dress conservatively and avoid wearing revealing clothing.
  • Remove shoes: It’s customary to remove your shoes before entering temples, mosques, and other holy places.
  • Respect elders: Show respect to elders and people in positions of authority.
  • Avoid public displays of affection: Public displays of affection are frowned upon in Nepal.

Best Time to Visit Kathmandu

The best time to visit Kathmandu is during the autumn season (September to November) and spring season (March to May). The weather is mild, and there are fewer chances of rain, making it ideal for trekking, hiking, and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kathmandu

It’s essential to follow some do’s and don’ts to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Kathmandu:

Do:

  • Carry cash and change: Many shops and vendors in Kathmandu do not accept credit cards.
  • Bargain: It’s customary to bargain when shopping in Kathmandu.
  • Learn some local phrases: Nepali people appreciate it when tourists make an effort to learn some basic Nepali phrases.
  • Respect wildlife: Kathmandu has a rich wildlife population, including monkeys and cows. Avoid disturbing them.

Don’t:

  • Drink tap water: Stick to bottled water to avoid getting sick.
  • Walk alone at night: Avoid walking alone in deserted alleys or streets at night.
  • Take pictures without permission: Always ask for permission before taking pictures of people or holy sites.
  • Smoke or litter: Smoking and littering in public places are illegal in Nepal.

Safety and Health

Kathmandu is relatively safe, but it’s crucial to take some precautions to ensure your safety.

Safety in Kathmandu

  • Avoid political protests: Political demonstrations and protests can occur in Kathmandu. Avoid them and stay updated on the current situation.
  • Watch out for scams: Be cautious of scams, particularly in tourist hotspots like Thamel.
  • Be prepared for natural disasters: Kathmandu is prone to natural disasters like earthquakes and landslides. Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures.

Health in Kathmandu

  • Get vaccinations: Get vaccinations for hepatitis A, typhoid, and yellow fever before traveling to Nepal.
  • Avoid street food: Street food can be tempting, but it’s best to avoid it to prevent getting sick.
  • Use mosquito repellent: Kathmandu is prone to mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and malaria. Use mosquito repellent and wear long sleeves and pants.

Getting to Kathmandu: Transportation Options and Logistics

Kathmandu is well-connected to major cities in Nepal and other countries. Here are some transportation options to reach Kathmandu:

Airports Near Kathmandu

  • Tribhuvan International Airport: This is the only international airport in Nepal and located in Kathmandu.

Bus Stations Near Kathmandu

  • Kathmandu Bus Terminal: This terminal is located in the heart of the city and serves buses to destinations all over Nepal.

Other Options

  • Taxis and private cars: You can hire taxis or private cars to reach Kathmandu from nearby destinations like Pokhara or Chitwan.
  • Flights: Domestic flights operate from Kathmandu to other cities in Nepal.

How to Get Around in Kathmandu

Getting around in Kathmandu is relatively easy. Here are some transportation options:

  • Taxis: Taxis are abundant in Kathmandu, but it’s best to negotiate the fare beforehand.
  • Motorbike/Scooter: You can rent a motorbike or scooter to explore the city at your own pace.
  • Buses and Micros: Public buses and micros (smaller buses) are cheap but can be crowded.

Where to Go Next from Kathmandu: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Kathmandu is a great base to explore the natural and cultural wonders of Nepal. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Pokhara: A picturesque city located 200 km west of Kathmandu, famous for its serene lakes, waterfalls, and mountains.
  • Chitwan National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its diverse flora and fauna, including Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinos, and elephants.
  • Annapurna Circuit Trek: An epic multi-day trek in the Himalayas that offers stunning mountain views and a rich cultural experience.

Conclusion

Kathmandu is a destination that offers a unique blend of culture, nature, and adventure. From exploring the city’s ancient temples and historical sites to hiking along scenic trails, there’s something for everyone in Kathmandu. Its locally made handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry make it a shopper’s paradise. Follow the cultural customs and take precautions for a safe and joyful experience in this beautiful city.

Kathmandu Durbar Square Kathmandu Durbar Square Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu Map of central Kathmandu Map of central Kathmandu The Pashupatinath Hindu temple to Shiva The Pashupatinath Hindu temple to Shiva A Lakhe (demon) dancer during the Yenya festival. A Lakhe (demon) dancer during the Yenya festival. Market on Asan Tol Market on Asan Tol Momo, a type of dumpling Momo, a type of dumpling Sel roti. A popular Nepali traditional home-made, sweet, ring-shaped rice bread/doughnut Sel roti. A popular Nepali traditional home-made, sweet, ring-shaped rice bread/doughnut


    Thamel and West Kathmandu