Table of Contents
Top Places to visit in Kathmandu – Complete Kathmandu Guide
Kathmandu (काठमांडू), the capital of the Himalayan country Nepal is a melange of experiences. Yes, Nepal for most people means Mt. Everest and the exhilarating Himalayan treks, for them Kathmandu is just a gateway to the Himalayas. The truth is that there is so much more to Nepal other than Everest. Kathmandu itself offers a range of experiences across genres of travel including Spiritual tourism, Culture tourism, Heritage tourism, Religious tourism, and much more. Kathmandu in Nepal is a complete destination in itself and needs to ‘lived’ and experienced, soaking in its positive vibes.
There are many places to visit in Kathmandu Nepal, some of them which figure on any standard Kathmandu sightseeing tour, and some which are relatively unknown, but nonetheless charming and should figure in your list of places to see in Kathmandu. During our visit to Nepal, we had a great time in Kathmandu.
The Kathmandu temperature was much cooler than in places like Lumbini which were searing hot, and we spent a few days experiencing some of the best things to do in Kathmandu, Nepal. In this Kathmandu travel blog, you will find information about Kathmandu, details of our personal experiences on the Kathmandu trip, tourist places in Kathmandu, what to do in Kathmandu, what to see in Kathmandu, places to visit near Kathmandu, and much more. This Kathmandu blog post is a complete guide to Kathmandu. For planning your own trip to Nepal, check out our Travel Tips for Nepal post.
Kathmandu – A Brief History
The genesis and history of Kathmandu go way back in time. Archaeological evidence suggests the existence of human settlements way back in 167 BC and 1 AD. Some archaeological excavations have also unearthed brick walls which are dated back to the stone age. There is a reference to the Pashupatinath Temple of Kathmandu even in the Shiva Purana.
It is also believed that once there was a lake where the present Kathmandu valley stands. The Bodhisattva Manjushri saw a lotus blooming in the lake. He cut a gorge in the surrounding mountains with his sword and drained the water out, the place where the lotus came to rest became the Swayambhunath Stupa and the valley created by the draining of the waters of the lake evolved into Kathmandu.
Various dynasties ruled over the Kathmandu valley across the passage of history. Notable among these was the Lichhavi clan which ruled over two settlements known as Yambu and Yangl which existed in the Kathmandu valley of those times. The Licchavi clan is believed to have been in power between 400-750 A.D. It is said that a Licchavi King named Gunakamadeva founded a city between these two settlements on the banks of the river Bishnumati and called it Kantipur which was the ancient name of Kathmandu.
Forty-eight kings from the Licchavi clan ruled in succession. The greatest amongst them is regarded as Mana Deva, who is credited to have introduced the Pagoda roofed style of temple architecture. The temples of Changunarayan, Budhanilkantha, and others are attributed to him.
The cultural heritage that one sees even today in Kathmandu is however mainly attributed to the rule of the Malla dynasty that held sway in the region from around 1200-1768. It was during the rule of the Malla that exquisitely designed and structured houses, temples, courtyards, and public spaces embellished with spectacular sculptures blossomed in the Kathmandu valley.
A huge wooden public shelter known as Kasthamandap and consisting of three storeys was believed to have been built around 1200 in Durbar Square. However, more recent archaeological evidence and research suggest that the Kasthamandap dates back to the 7th century. The name Kathmandu is believed to have been derived from the word Kasthamandap.
In modern times Nepal has had a chequered history. It was established as the Federal Democratic Republic in the year 2008 and has seen a devastating earthquake in the year 2015. However, the strong and resilient attitude of the people of Nepal with the support of the International community has ensured that Nepal is back on track. Today Nepal is one of the sought after tourist destinations in Asia. A country that is a beautiful mosaic of art, architecture, culture, adventure, and nature.
Places to Visit In Kathmandu – Kathmandu Temples
Pashupatinath Temple – One of the top places to visit in Kathmandu
The Pashupatinath temple is one of the most important places to visit in Kathmandu. The ancient Hindu temple is dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva. The mention of this temple is even found in the ancient Hindu text, the Shiva Purana. Many myths and legends abound about Pashupatinath temple that is a testimony to its sanctity and importance in the Hindu religion.
The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The temple along with the main temple consists of many smaller temples ensconced in a sprawling complex. The temple is situated on the banks of the Bagmati river.
The temple complex that spreads over an area of about 1.58 acres consists of 518 temples. The sanctum sanctorum of the temple houses the deity, the Mukhalinga or Linga with faces. It is a metre high Linga with four faces on all the cardinal directions and one facing upwards said to represent the five faces of Shiva namely Ishana, Tatpurusha, Aghora, Vamadeva and Sadyojatha.
It may be noted that the Linga can be touched and worshipped only by the Bhatta priests who hail from Karnataka in India. Only Hindus are allowed inside the main temple, however, others can visit the outer courtyard and also see the entire complex from the eastern embankment of the river Bagmati that flows beside the temple. The Pashupatinath temple is one tourist place in Nepal Kathmandu that must not be missed.
Watch our Pashupatinath video here:
Location
Pashupatinath temple is located about 2.5 kilometers from the Tribhuvan International Airport and about 4.5 kilometers from Thamel.
How to reach Pashupatinath Temple
Pashupatinath can be reached by cab from central Kathmandu. One can also use the public buses to reach the Pashupatinath temple, however, the buses tend to be crowded at most times.
Timings
The Pashupatinath temple opens at 4.00 AM and closes in the afternoon at 12.00. It again opens at 5 PM and closes after the evening aarti inside the temple which is after sunset.
Boudhanath – Places to visit in Kathmandu
The Boudhnath Stupa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular places to visit in Kathmandu. It is a massive Stupa with a spherical base and towers over the skyline of Kathmandu at a height of about 36 m. Surrounding the Stupa in a circular circumference are many shops selling souvenirs and also nice cafes and restaurants with a rooftop seating that provide nice views of the Stupa along with good food.
Location
The Boudhanath Stupa is located in the Boudha area of Kathmandu. It is at a distance of about 4.5 kilometers from the Tribhuvan International Airport and about 4 kilometers from Thamel Kathmandu Nepal.
How to reach Boudhanath Stupa
It can be reached by cab from central Kathmandu. One can also use the public buses to reach the Boudhanath Stupa, however, the buses tend to be crowded at most times.
Swayambhunath – Places to visit in Kathmandu
Swayambhunath is another of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu. It is located atop a hill which offers some great views of the city of Kathmandu. The temple is also referred to as the Monkey temple. The Stupa with the eyes of the Buddha painted on the top in all the four cardinal directions seems to gaze benevolently at the city of Kathmandu stretched below.
Apart from the Stupa, the Swayambunath complex consists of smaller temples, shrines, and also a museum and library. To reach the Stupa a little bit of climbing is involved, but the steps are quite comfortable and can be climbed easily.
Location
Swayambhunath is located on a mountain overlooking the city of Kathmandu. It is at a distance of about 9.5 kilometers from the Tribhuvan International Airport and about 5.3 kilometers from Thamel.
How to reach Swyambhunath
It can be reached by cab from central Kathmandu. One can also use the public buses to reach the Swayambhunath, however, the buses tend to be crowded at most times.
Budhanilakatha Temple – Places to visit in Kathmandu
Budhanilkantha temple is one of the unique places to visit in Kathmandu. It is an open-air temple to the Lord Vishnu. The reclining statue of Vishnu can be seen in the midst of the water. The five-meter tall statue made of a single black rock presents a beautiful picture surrounded by water on all sides. This temple though it is not as well known as the other temples and shrines is a must-visit place in Kathmandu.
Location
Budhanilakantha is located at a distance of about 11kilometers from the Tribhuvan International Airport and about 9.5 kilometers from Thamel.
How to reach Budhanilakantha
It can be reached by cab from central Kathmandu. One can also use the public buses to reach the Budhanilakantha temple, however, the buses tend to be crowded at most times.
Changu Narayan Temple – Places to visit in Kathmandu
This is one of the oldest temples of Nepal and is dedicated to the Hindu God, Lord Vishnu. The temple is situated on a hill that is known as Changu or Dolagiri. It is located in the midst of a forest of Champak trees. Inside the temple complex apart from the main temple, there are temples to Lord Shiva and other Hindu Gods.
Location
Changu Narayan temple is located at a distance of about 16 kilometers from the Tribhuvan International Airport and about 22 kilometers from Thamel.
How to reach Changu Narayan Temple
It can be reached by cab from central Kathmandu. One can also use the public buses to reach the Budhanilakantha temple, however, the buses tend to be crowded at most times.
Places to Visit in Kathmandu – Culture & Heritage
Durbar Square – Places to visit in Kathmandu
Durbar Square also is known as Hanuman Dhoka Durbar Square is one of the heritage landmark sites of Kathmandu. It is a popular tourists spot and for connoisseurs of art, architecture, and culture, one of the most important places to visit in Kathmandu.
The presence of scaffoldings at various places where reconstruction is in full swing serves as a reminder of the devastating earthquake that rocked Nepal in 2015. But the resilience of the Himalayan country has ensured that it is back on its feet in record time. One can still experience the beauty of Durbar Square, the place that was the haunt of the Malla and the Shah dynasty in a time gone by.
Walking in the Durbar Square is like walking down the lanes of history with the brick red trademark structures of Newari architecture serenading you at every bend in the road. Durbar Square is a collection of the royal palace, public squares, temples, and other structures that bring alive the beauty of the Newari architecture of ancient times. The Durbar Square Kathmandu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the two other Durbar Squares at Patan and Bhaktapur. It is the best place in Kathmandu for those interested in ancient history, art, architecture, and culture.
Location
Durbar Square is the heart of the old city of Kathmandu. It is at a distance of about 7.5 kilometers from Tribhuvan International Airport and about 1.5 kilometers from Thamel.
How to reach Durbar Square Kathmandu
It can be reached by cab from central Kathmandu or by walk if you prefer.
Book Durbar Squares Full-Day Tour.
Patan Square – Places To Visit In Kathmandu
The ancient Patan Durbar Square is located in the center of the city of Lalitpur in the Kathmandu valley. Lalitpur is the third-largest city in Nepal after Kathmandu and Pokhara. Historically the Malla kings are credited with the building of the Patan Durbar Square, however some trace it even before the time of the Malla to the Pradhanas and the Thakuri dynasty. Whatever the origins, what cannot be denied is the exquisite beauty of the structures that make up the Patan Durbar Square.
These again include a palace, public resthouses, water tanks, temples, and statues. Some of the important temples that can be seen in the Patan Durbar Square are Taleju Bhawani temple, Krishna Temple, and Bhimsen temple among others. Not far from the Durbar Square in Patan is the Golden Temple or Hiranya Varna Mahavihar. It is a golden pagoda built in the 12th century that is dedicated to Shakhyamuni Buddha. The Durbar Square Patan is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best places to visit in Kathmandu Nepal.
Location
Patan Durbar Square is the heart of the city of Lalitpur. It is at a distance of about 6 kilometers from Tribhuvan International Airport and about 6.5 kilometers from Thamel.
How to reach Durbar Square Kathmandu
It can be reached by cab from central Kathmandu or by local bus. Frequent minibus and other local buses are available from Ratna Park Bus Station to the Patan Dhoka Bus Station.
Book Patan and Bhaktapur Tour.
Bhaktapur – Places To Visit In Kathmandu
Another of the fascinating trinity of Durbar Squares of the Kathmandu Valley, Bhaktapur is the best preserved of the Durbar Squares and is in many ways a living heritage museum of sorts. From quaint shops housed in heritage buildings to the royal palace, temples, and public spaces, Bhaktapur unveils the best of Nepal’s glorious past and rich heritage. Another of Nepal’s UNESCO World Heritage Site Bhaktapur itself is made up of four distinct parts.
The first one is the main Durbar Square where the 55 window palace is located. There is a second square called Taumadhi Square where the famous Nyatapola temple is situated. The third one is Dattatreya Square where the Dattatreya Temple is located. The last of these public squares is known as the Pottery Square where potters have been molding clay into fascinating shapes for generations. Bhaktapur is definitely one of the most famous places in Kathmandu valley.
Location
Bhaktapur Durbar Square is at a distance of about 12 kilometers from Tribhuvan International Airport and about 16 kilometers from Thamel.
How to reach Bhaktapur Durbar Square
It can be reached by cab from central Kathmandu or by local bus. Frequent minibus and other local buses are available from Ratna Park Bus Station to Bhaktapur.
Book Patan and Bhaktapur Tour.
Narayanhiti Palace – Places To Visit In Kathmandu
The Narayanhiti Palace has been the residence of the recent Kings of Nepal who ruled the Kingdom of Nepal from here. The Palace that now stands was built in 1963 by King Mahendra. The old palace which existed at that time was demolished and the current one built.
The palace sprawls over an area of 3794 square meters and is made up of three wings which include a private wing, the guest wing, and the state wing. The Palace is also the scene of the terrible and bloody tragedy that played out in the year 2001 when 10 members of the royal family including the then King, King Birendra, and Queen Aishwarya were killed. Today the Narayanhiti Palace is owned by the Government of Nepal and is a public museum.
Location
Narayanhiti Palace is at a distance of about 5.5 kilometers from Tribhuvan International Airport and about 1 kilometer from Thamel.
How to reach Narayanhiti Palace
It is a walkable distance from Thamel and can be reached by cab or by local bus from other locations in the city.
Garden of Dreams – Places To Visit In Kathmandu
Swapna Bagicha means Garden of Dreams in Nepalese, the local Kathmandu language. It is a beautiful and sprawling garden which is part of the Kaiser Mahal adjacent to the Narayanhiti Palace. The garden is also referred to as the Garden of Six Seasons and is made up of three pavilions, numerous ponds, and also an amphitheater. The garden was originally laid in 1920 by Kaiser Samsher Rana, but its condition had deteriorated after his death. The garden was revived and restored with the help of the Austrian Government.
Location
Garden of Dreams is at a distance of about 5.5 kilometers from Tribhuvan International Airport and a 2 minutes walk from Thamel.
How to reach Narayanhiti Palace
It is a walkable distance from Thamel and can be reached by cab or by local bus from other locations in the city.
Entry Fees To Kathmandu Attractions
Most of the attractions of the Kathmandu Valley have entry fees which vary based on the nationality of the visitors. For details check here.
Places to Visit in Kathmandu – Shopping
Thamel
Kathmandu Nepal is a paradise for shoppers. especially those looking for souvenirs and heritage items like antiques etc.. One of the Kathmandu locations that are a tourist hotspot for shopping is Thamel. Thamel is a great place for shopping and also has many hotels and restaurants in the vicinity. Because of this many consider Thame as the best place to stay in Kathmandu.
Durbar Square
If you are visiting the Durbar Square then you are sure to be fascinated by the colorful wares, some of which are laid out in the open square itself. The narrow streets that criss-cross from the Durbar Square are lined with shops selling exotic stuff that dazzle the eye.
Boudha Stupa Market
The Boudha area of Kathmandu is where the famous UNESCO World Heritage site of the Boudha Stupa is located. The huge area around the Stupa is encircled by many shops selling all sorts of items which make for attractive souvenirs.
Things to buy in Nepal as Souvenir
If you are the kind who loves shopping and your travel is not complete without shopping at local markets, then Kathmandu is sure to appeal to you with its various shopping areas and markets. Shopping is one of the things to do in Nepal Kathmandu.
Some of the things that one can buy in these markets are Pashmina Shawls, Tea, Coffee, Spices, Honey, Incense, Gold and Silver jewelry, Dolls, puppets, Thangka paintings, wall hangings, magnets, stickers, earthen pots, local handicrafts, singing bowls, masks, Brassware, prayer wheels, and Khukris. Kathmandu is also the place to stock up for your treks into the Himalayas and also get yourself some trekking gear.
Day Trips From Kathmandu
Kathmandu is the doorway to many exquisite treasures that await in the beautiful land of Nepal. There are many places where you can head to for a day trip when you are staying at Kathmandu.
Bhaktapur
An ideal way to spend a day when in Kathmandu would be to head to the fascinating ancient town of Bhaktapur, the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Yes if you are really interested in ancient architecture, arts, and history you may want to spend more time there.
Book Patan and Bhaktapur Tour.
Patan
Another UNESCO World Heritage Site that can be visited on a day trip from Kathmandu is Patan, with its fascinating heritage structures that take you back in time to a grand era.
Book Patan and Bhaktapur Tour.
Nagarkot
Nepal for most is synonymous with the Himalayas and if you want to exult in some spectacular Himalayan views, the best place to head to is Nagarkot which is about 32 kilometers away from Kathmandu. Nagarkot is known for its magical sunrises and views of the Himalayan ranges which makes it the best place to visit near Kathmandu for nature lovers.
Book Nagarkot Sunrise With Trip To Changu Narayan and Bhaktapur tour.
Best time to visit Kathmandu, Nepal
Kathmandu Nepal is, of course, a 365-day destination. But the best time to visit is between the months of October to December, this is when the weather is relatively dry. The other important aspect is that during this time the skies are also clear which translates into great views. If you are looking to have an immersive experience of the culture of Kathmandu than it is good to plan a trip around the many festivals that bring alive the cultural vibrancy of the region.
Kathmandu Map
Map of Kathmandu city
How To Get To Kathmandu
Kathmandu is the capital of Nepal and the entry point for international travelers to Nepal. Kathmandu is linked by air to the major cities of the world. One can fly into other places of Nepal like Pokhara, Lumbini, etc., from Kathmandu. There are also flights to Lukla, one of the most dangerous airports in the world, from Kathmandu.
Are you planning a Nepal tour or a holiday to Kathmandu? You can book flights and hotels right here.
Visa Requirements For Kathmandu Nepal
♠ Nepal offers Visa on arrival facilities for visitors from most countries
♠ If you are an Indian Passport holder then you do not need a visa to enter Nepal, your passport or any other Indian Government identification document like Aadhaar will suffice.
♠ For latest and updated visa information, check out the Nepal Government Immigration site.
Where To Stay In Kathmandu
Kathmandu accommodation ranges from backpacking hostels, homestays, resorts, and premium hotels. There quite a few 5-star hotels in Kathmandu considering the large influx of international tourists. So whether you are a backpacker looking for cheap hotels or one checking out for a luxury hotel Kathmandu has something for you.
During our visit to Kathmandu, we stayed in two hotels of the same group, Hotel Tibet, and Hotel Tibet International.
Hotel Tibet
Our stay at Hotel Tibet was very short as we reached late in the night and checked out early in the morning as we were traveling to Chitwan and from there to Lumbini and Pohara. But we found the place neat and clean with Tibetan style decor. The hotel is centrally located at Lazimpath and about 8 kilometers from the Tribhuvan International Airport. Most of the places to visit in Kathmandu are easily accessible from this hotel.
Hotel Tibet International
The second hotel in which we stayed for a couple of days was the Hotel Tibet International. It is one of the best luxury hotels in Kathmandu and located away from the main center. It is located within walking distance of the famous UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Boudhnath Stupa.
One can get a nice view of the monument from the hotel. The interiors of the hotel are exquisitely done up with Tibetan art and artifacts and provide a soothing and zen-like ambiance. The rooms are very spacious and airy and one can expect to get a good quality of sleep.
The complimentary breakfast is filling and provides the right start for your Kathmandu exploration. As you have your breakfast, the soothing Buddhist chants serve to calm your mind and rejuvenate you. Hotel Tibet International is a 4.5-star boutique hotel with three categories of rooms, Tibetan Boutique Room, Tibetan Boutique Suite, and Tibetan Executive Suite. Above all the staff is friendly and hospitable and the service excellent. If you are looking for the best hotel in Kathmandu, you must consider the Hotel Tibet International.
You can plan your stay during your Kathmandu tour or any town in Nepal. For the best hotels or resorts in Kathmandu do check out our favorite sites. You can book your hotels through TripAdvisor or Cleartrip or Booking.com and accrue huge savings.
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You can book UNESCO World Heritage Sites tour in Kathmandu.
Getting Around Kathmandu
One can get around Kathmandu by hailing taxis on the road or through local buses. Do note that currently there are no app-based cab services like Uber in Kathmandu. If you choose to use public transport, be ready for crowded and dusty rides which are quite cheap and economical. The other option is, of course, to hire a cab through the hotel that you are staying in. The important Kathmandu bus stations are Ratna Park for local buses and Kanti Path and Gongabu bus stations are for getting long-distance buses from Kathmandu including buses to Pokhara.
Kathmandu Currency
The local currency of Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee. This is the official currency of the Federal Republic of Nepal. The Nepalese Rupee is made up of 100 Paise. The current rate of 1 Nepalese Rupee equals to how many INR can be checked here. Indian rupees are generally accepted by the business and shopping establishments, but usually, this would in denominations of INR 100 or less. The current rate of 1 Nepalese Rupee equals to how many USD dollars can be checked here.
Kathmandu Mobile Connection
Nepal is currently covered by three mobile service providers who operate on GSM technology. These are Ncell, Nepal Telecom which is a Government operator, and Smart Cell. Most of the Indian mobile networks including Airtel, Vodafone, etc., will work once you cross the border into Nepal, however international roaming is switched on automatically and the charges could depend on the service provider.
Languages Spoken In Kathmandu – Important words in Nepali
Nepali is the local language prevalent in Kathmandu. Most people can speak Hindi and English too. Communication is not an issue if you know English.
Here are some important words and basic phrases that will stand in good stead when in Kathmandu.
| Greetings like Hello and Goodbye, with folded hands | Namaste |
| Excuse me or sorry | maaph garnuhos |
| May I take a photo? | Ke ma tasbeer khichna sakchhu? |
| How are you? | Timīlā’ī kastō cha |
| Thank you | Dhan’yavāda |
| Good morning | Śubha – prabhāta |
| Good day | Śubha dina |
| How much does this cost? | Yasakō kati parcha |
| I speak English | ma angrejee bolchhu |
Traditional Nepalese Dress
One of the striking features of Nepalese traditional dress is the trademark headgear that is known as Nepali Topi or Dhaka Topi. The traditional attire of Nepali men is known as Daura Suruwal consisting of a double-breasted shirt and trousers. The women, on the other hand, wear what is known as Kurta Suruwal which consists of a long-sleeved loose-fitting blouse worn over baggy trousers or pajamas.
What And Where To Eat In Kathmandu
Kathmandu is an international destination and so there are many Kathmandu restaurants serving different cuisines. From local Nepalese cuisine to Indian and Italian cuisine to continental cuisine, different tastes are catered for in Kathmandu. Rice and Lentils form the main part of Nepalese cuisine. Some of the local dishes that are famous in Nepal are Sel Roti, Juju Dhau which is a thick sweet yogurt that is a specialty of Bhaktapur.
Here is a list of some of the famous Nepali food:
- Nepali Thali
- Dal Bhat
- Sel Roti
- Samay Baji
- Gundruk
- Momos
- Bara
- Chatamari
- Thukpa
- Sandekho
- Juju Dhau
Book Newari Food Tasting Tour.
Festivals in Kathmandu
The different ethnic groups of Nepal have their own customs and culture which come alive in their unique festivals. Some of the important festivals of the Kathmandu valley and their unique features are outlined here.
Losar
Losar is a Tibetan Buddhist festival and is celebrated in the month of February or March based on the Tibetan calendar. It coincides with the Tibetan New year.
Dashain
Dashain is a festival that similar to Dussehra celebrated in India. In Nepal, this festival celebrated the triumph of good over evil. It is a time for families to get together, for people to take the blessings of the elders in the family. This festival is generally celebrated in the month of October.
Tihar
Tihar is another important festival that is celebrated for three days in Nepal. On the first day of the festival, the crow which is believed to be the messenger of the God of Death, Yama, is worshipped. On the second day, the dog also associated with Yama is worshipped, and on the third day Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth is worshipped.
Indra Jatra
Indra Jatra or Yenya is a grand street festival that is celebrated in Kathmandu. The festival is actually made up of two festivals. The first one is the Indra Jatra which features masked dances using the masks of different deities and demons. The Kumari Jatra is a festival dedicated to the living Goddess of Kathmandu, the Kumari. A chariot procession with the Kumari is the highlight of the Kumari Jatra. The Indra Jatra festival is celebrated in the month of September and is one of the unique things to see in Kathmandu.
Maha Shivaratri
Maha Shivaratri is another grand and sacred festival of the Hindus that is celebrated with great religious fervor in Kathmandu. The presence of the ancient and sacred Shiva temple of Pashupatinath ensures that Kathmandu attracts devotees in hordes on the auspicious day of the festival of Maha Shivaratri. This festival falls usually in the month of February-March.
Kathmandu FAQ
Is Nepal a safe place to travel? Is it safe in Kathmandu? Is it safe to travel to Nepal alone?
Kathmandu is like any other city in any part of the world. It is generally safe but as anywhere else, one should take all necessary precautions.
Which is the best time to visit Nepal?
Nepal can be visited throughout the year but the winter months are the best.
What is special about Kathmandu?
Kathmandu heritage walks take you on a fascinating journey into a grand and historic past. Be it the Durbar Square in Kathmandu itself or Bhaktapur or Patan, they provide fascinating glimpses of Newari culture, ancient Newari townships, Newari food, and of course the Newari people. The UNESCO World Heritage sites and other Kathmandu Nepal points of interest make it a unique destination.
Do they speak English in Kathmandu?
People can speak and understand English in Kathmandu. Apart from that Kathmandu language in vogue are Nepali and Hindi.
Can you see Mt Everest from Kathmandu?
Mt. Everest can be seen from Nagarkot, one of the beautiful places near Kathmandu, located about 32 kilometers away.
What can you do in Kathmandu for a day?
If you are looking at a one-day itinerary for Kathmandu, there are many places you can include. It, of course, depends on what your preferences are. There are many beautiful places in Kathmandu that you can visit. Some of the Kathmandu attractions one must visit would be Pashupatinath Temple, Durbar Square, Boudhnath Stupa, and the Swayamunath Temple.
How many days do you need in Kathmandu?
With so many Kathmandu tourist attractions, it is best to plan for at least 4 or 5 days itinerary for Kathmandu.
What should I buy in Nepal?
Shopping in Kathmandu Nepal is one of the most fascinating activity where you can buy some really exotic stuff at great prices. Some of the things you can buy are Kathmandu clothing and apparels, puppets, handicrafts, singing bowls, prayer wheels, jewelry, wall hangings, tea, honey, and much more.
What is Kathmandu altitude?
Kathmandu elevation is about 4,600 feet above sea level.
What is the Kathmandu Nepal time zone?
If you are wondering what time is it in Kathmandu, do note that the local time in Kathmandu and Nepal is 5.45 hours ahead of Greenwich mean Time (GMT). The Nepal time is 15 minutes ahead of IST (Indian Standard Time).
How is Kathmandu climate?
The temperature of Kathmandu Nepal is around 28 to degrees in the summer months and can drop to 8 or even 4 degrees during the Kathmandu city winter.
Are there any hotels in Kathmandu near the airport?
The Tribhuvan International Airport is not far from the city center Kathmandu and hence the top hotels in Kathmandu, as well as cheap hotels in Kathmandu Nepal are easily and quickly accessible.
Is there an Indian restaurant in Kathmandu?
There are quite a few Indian restaurants in Kathmandu, moreover traditional Nepali cuisine too is similar to Indian cuisine and incorporates rice and lentils a lot.
Travel tips for visiting Kathmandu, Nepal
♠ Some of the areas of Kathmandu can be quite dusty and hence to protect yourself from air pollution use of a dust mask is recommended.
♠ Hotels in Nepal generally have electrical points with three round pins called the type D and operates at 230 volts. If traveling from India you may not need an adapter while it would be required for those traveling from other countries in Europe or the USA.
♠ It is advisable to carry your own drinking water while traveling in Kathmandu.
♠ Kathmandu sightseeing will involve quite a bit of walking so ensure that you wear comfortable footwear.
♠ It can be quite sunny and humid and especially so during the summer months, so ensure to protect yourself with sunscreen, caps, shades, and umbrellas.
Kathmandu Tour Packages
You can plan and book Kathmandu tours and activities based on your preference. A 6 hour Kathmandu valley tour can also be booked online. Here are some more options for tours in and around Kathmandu.
Final Thoughts About Kathmandu and places to visit in Kathmandu
Kathmandu is a unique destination. A place that is vibrant with the echoes of spirituality and the rhythm of a culture that brings alive the grandeur of a rich heritage. It is a place that can not be merely seen as just another destination. A Kathmandu sightseeing tour is much more than that, it is a complete sensory experience that needs to be felt with ones’ heart.
We hope you find the information about Kathmandu that we have shared useful. Do share your thoughts on this complete Kathmandu travel guide. Did you find this Kathmandu guide useful? Is there anything which you want us to include so that we can make this close to an ultimate travel guide to Nepal – Kathmandu? We hope you enjoy your trip to Kathmandu and Nepal.
You might be interested in reading our other posts on Nepal:
Lumbini Tour – Birthplace of Buddha
Chitwan Jungle Safari | All About Chitwan National Park, Nepal
Chitwan Jungle Walk – Losing Yourself In Nature
Travel Tips for Nepal – Things to Know Before Traveling to Nepal
Trekking in Nepal – Best Trekking Places in Nepal
A Paradise called Pokhara beckons you
We were hosted by Nepal Tourism and Himalayan Travel Mart. However, the views and opinions expressed here are our own.
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This is a very comprehensive guide and answers all of my questions about Kathmandu. It’s helpful to know that most people can speak and understand English. I would love to try some of the food. I haven’t heard of most of the dishes, but some of the names do remind me of some Indian ones. Indian is one of my favorite cuisines, so I am sure I would like the food there.
I do not see myself summiting Everest anytime soon so it’s great to have a guide for other activities in Kathmandu! I would definitely like to visit some of the temples like the Changu Narayan. The World Heritage sites Boudhanath and Swayambhunath also look wonderful. The Garden of Dreams could be straight out of a dream — seems like a must do.
Wow, what a incredibly detailed guide. I have been to Kathmandu many times but I didn’t know about Changu Narayan Temple, that looks amazing. Loved the food there, you’ve listed all my favourites especially momos 🙂
Kathmandu is truly a beautiful place having a lot of experiences to offer. It was good to know about the history of the city. This is such a comprehensive guide answering most of the queries related to travelling to Nepal.
The only thing that we did not like about Kathmandu was its dust and pollution. But I guess that is negligible when we see and experience such beautiful things.
Wow what a comprehensive post on Kathmandu this one is! I don’t need to look anywhere else when I plan my visit to Kathmandu.
Oh Katmandu looks so scenic! I have never been to Nepal, but this guide definitely comes handy when planning my trip there. The Pokara would be on the top of my list!
Wow the place looks very beautiful. I never have been to nepal but yes, when ever i plan will check you blog post.
Such a detailed post on Kathmandu 🙂
Would love shopping there and try some local cuisine with momos 🙂
Oh . Nepal is in my bucket list. I would love to visit the Kathmandu someday for sure. Thanks for sharing this detailed guide. You have included everything in detail.
We are planning to visit Katmandu. If our plan works i will try to include the places you have suggested in the list
Your comprehensive Kathmandu guide is very useful and loved all the information provided. Visiting Durbar square is high on my list as I would love to see Nepali style architecture. Also the vibrant culture of Nepal tempts me go for it. Also the Nepali cuisine is very tempting, especially the Nepali Thali. Thanks for sharing all tips for first timers.
Seems like every temples in Kathmandu are UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s really a good place for people who likes to visit buildings or places under it. My favorite one is Changu Narayan Temple, which is unfortunately not a UNESCO World Heritage Site. I like the combination of red bricks and wood. The carving looks beautiful. Reminded me a bit of Bali.
I have been toKathmandu and trust me this city has something for everyone.. Durbar square and pashupatinath mandir are must visit there.
I really want to go to Kathmandu! The history, the temples, the culture! It all looks so amazing! Just book marked this post so I can come back to it when we plan our trip!! Thank you for putting all of this together!! It makes me so excited or our trip!
I have pinned this post for future …i totaly loved how u explained each nd every point in this blog…ill take notes while i travel gere in oct
If I’m not mistaken Nepal is the only country to have not been conquered by the British. It retains its history as it is.
My father visited this place once and told us that we should not miss going to this place and once in life, I wish to visit Kathmandu!!
Your Nepal series is really prepping me up for my next trip.. That has to be definitely Kathmandu!
What a wonderful guide to Kathmandu. It’s been one place I have always wanted to visit. You make it look incredible.
Your post are full of information, will. Share your post to my friends who are planning a trip to nepal
Once again an elaborate post which speaks so much about this place. The few important greetings and words you have mentioned would be so helpful. I can also feel that you both enjoyed this trip a bit more than your other trips in this continent.
Utpal Khot
That’s an exhaustive guide buddy, I was meaning to go to Kathmandu for a trip and now I have all vital information
Very insightful post about one of our closest neighbour . Surely most of us think of Mt. Everest only but now casual traveller like us can plan too
That’s handy guide for Kathmandu tour. This place is very close to my hometown. Would plan to visit super soon in my next holiday
I agree, we all view Kathmandu as the gateway to mount everest… But Kathmandu is an amazing and beautiful place by itself… Loved how you explained everything with such great pictures!
The temples in Kathmandu are so beautifully build. This place has great history and it is maintained so well till now.
Such an elaborate post about Kathamandu. I love the way have covered every detail from A -Z. I don’t think ppl can have any doubts planning there visit to this place 🙂
Not been to kathmandu but i know its a great great place. And your article is so elaborate, I’m bookmarking it for my future trip!
This is a wonderfully detailed post. Thank you for sharing it..it is my one stop for when i plan my trip.
It s a beautiful place indeed. The monestry, the hills, the people there are so good by heart. Nature has poured all its beauty there.
I have never been there but have heard so much. And your pictures says it all about the beautiful Kathmandu. Would book mark this page for future
I love Nepal i want to visit kathmandu soon..your blog is amazing ..keep sharing
Kathmandu is a beautiful place. I have never been there but would love to visit there sometime.
What an amazing trip!!