Things To Do
in Kathmandu
Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, this vibrant city is both the capital and the largest urban agglomeration of Nepal, rich in history and culture, evident in its fascinating temples, palaces, and bustling marketplaces. It serves as a gateway for tourists embarking on mountainous adventures, including treks to Mount Everest Base Camp, while also offering a deep dive into unique artistic heritage, showcased in landmarks like the Kathmandu Durbar Square and Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple.
Despite the challenges of modernization and the scars left by the 2015 earthquake, Kathmandu remains a bustling, enchanting city, where tradition and progress blend seamlessly, inviting exploration and discovery.
- "Timi lai kasto chha?" - How are you?
- "Dhanyabad" - Thank you
- "Ma sanchai chhu" - I am fine
- "Kripaya" - Please
- "Tapaiko naam ke ho?" - What is your name?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.25 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the iconic Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) for stunning panoramic views of the city. Enjoy a peaceful morning surrounded by monkeys and ancient statues.
Head to the historic Durbar Square to see the beautiful temples and palaces. Grab lunch at a local eatery featuring Nepali cuisine.
Wander the streets of Thamel to shop for souvenirs. Relax at a rooftop restaurant with views of the city as the sun sets.
Take an early morning drive to Nagarkot to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas. Enjoy breakfast at a local lodge with a mountain backdrop.
Explore the scenic trails around Nagarkot, taking in the natural beauty and fresh air. Visit local villages and interact with friendly locals.
Return to Kathmandu and enjoy a traditional Nepali dinner. Spend a leisurely evening reflecting on your day of adventure.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history with many UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
- Stunning natural scenery, including the nearby Himalayas.
- Diverse and vibrant local markets offering unique handicrafts and food.
- A welcoming and hospitable local populace.
- Opportunity for various outdoor activities like trekking, rafting, and paragliding.
- High levels of air pollution and traffic congestion.
- Challenging infrastructure, especially in terms of roads and public transportation.
- Frequent earthquakes due to its geological location.
- Potentially difficult living conditions, especially during the monsoon season.
- Limited access to modern healthcare facilities in some areas.
Best Activities in Kathmandu
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a hike through the lush forests and scenic trails of Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, offering breathtaking views of the Kathmandu Valley and the surrounding mountains.
Visit the historic Patan Durbar Square to admire the ancient architecture, temples, and cultural heritage of the city.
Experience an adventurous mountain biking excursion through the picturesque trails and rural landscapes of the Kathmandu Valley.
Indulge in a thrilling paragliding adventure at Godavari, experiencing panoramic views and a unique aerial perspective of the Kathmandu Valley.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kathmandu with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kathmandu
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
Beautiful architecture and great view of the stupa from one of the rooftop cafes.
Provides stunning views of Kathmandu Valley and the surrounding hills.
Offers unique cultural and spiritual photo opportunities along the Bagmati River.
Food in Kathmandu
Kathmandu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
These dumplings can be steamed or fried and are typically filled with minced meat or vegetables. A must-try street food, available at local markets and street stalls, as well as in most restaurants and cafes in Kathmandu.
Must-Try!
Considered the national dish of Nepal, dal bhat is a platter of steamed rice served with lentil soup (dal), vegetables, and a variety of condiments. It’s a staple in Nepalese households and can be found at traditional eateries across Kathmandu.
A traditional Nepali rice donut that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, often enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack. Local street vendors and teahouses offer this popular dish.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kathmandu better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of the oldest and busiest markets in Kathmandu, offering a wide range of street food, fresh produce, and local snacks. It's a great place to sample authentic Nepalese street food and observe everyday life in the city.
This bustling square hosts a vibrant street food scene where you can find local delicacies such as samosas, chatpate, and aloo tikki. It's an excellent spot to experience traditional Nepalese street food culture.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with the traditional 'Namaste' and join your hands as a sign of respect.
When visiting religious sites and temples, it is important to dress modestly and remove shoes before entering.
Show respect to elders by using formal language and addressing them with proper titles.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kathmandu with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kathmandu
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kathmandu, tipping is not a common practice but is appreciated in some tourist-centric establishments such as high-end restaurants and hotels. A service charge may already be included in the bill, so it's advisable to check before adding an additional tip.
Cash is the primary mode of payment in Kathmandu, especially in local markets and small shops. However, credit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and larger businesses. ATMs are widely available for withdrawing cash.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kathmandu.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit due to moderate temperatures, clear skies, and blooming rhododendrons. Expect colorful festivals and ideal trekking conditions.
Another optimal time to visit with pleasant weather, clear mountain views, and vibrant festivals. Ideal for trekking and outdoor activities.
Expect heavy rainfall, lush greenery, and occasional transportation disruptions. Not the best time for outdoor adventures, but good for experiencing local culture and traditions.
Cool to cold temperatures, occasional fog, and snow-capped mountain views. Suitable for low-altitude treks and cultural exploration, but high-altitude treks may be challenging.
Kathmandu at Night
Hiking in Kathmandu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Nagarkot is a popular hill station located about 32 km east of Kathmandu, offering stunning views of the Himalayas, especially at sunrise and sunset. There are several hiking trails in the area that lead through beautiful forests.
This hike takes you from the historic Bhaktapur Durbar Square to Nagarkot. The route covers ancient villages, terraced fields, and offers panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley.
Located about 16 km from Kathmandu, Chandragiri Hill offers a cable car ride to the top, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Numerous hiking trails are available for adventure seekers.
Dhulikhel is located approximately 30 km from Kathmandu, offering serene hikes through rice fields and traditional Nepali villages, with excellent views of the mountain ranges.
This popular trek starts at Sundarijal, about a 30-minute drive from Kathmandu, and leads to Chisapani. The trail offers wooded areas, streams, and panoramic views, making it a favorite among hikers.
A scenic hike starting from the Pashupatinath Temple towards Gokarneshwar, passing through cultural landmarks and offering a peaceful atmosphere along the way.
Starting from Godavari, this trail leads to Phulchowki, the highest hill around the Kathmandu Valley. The path is dotted with lush forests and diverse flora and fauna.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kathmandu through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kathmandu by plane.
The only international airport in Kathmandu, Nepal, serving numerous international and domestic flights.
Located in New Delhi, India, it is one of the busiest international airports in the region, approximately 1,000 kilometers from Kathmandu.
Located in Kolkata, India, it serves as a major hub for international flights, about 700 kilometers southeast of Kathmandu.
Also known as Lukla Airport, it is primarily for domestic flights but is a key gateway to the Everest region, located about 140 kilometers from Kathmandu.
Situated in Pune, India, this international airport is around 1,040 kilometers from Kathmandu.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest indigenous ethnic group in the Kathmandu Valley, known for their rich cultural heritage and traditions.
This group primarily consists of ethnic groups like Brahmins and Chhetris, making up a significant portion of the population.
People of Terai origin, they have a distinct cultural identity and language, and are one of the prominent ethnic groups in the region.
An ethnic group with their own language and culture, traditionally found in the rural areas surrounding Kathmandu.
Famous for their mountaineering skills, Sherpas are a Tibetan ethnic group residing primarily in the higher altitudes of Nepal.
An ethnic and religious minority in Kathmandu, contributing to the diverse cultural fabric of the city.
Includes various smaller ethnic groups and immigrants from different regions and countries.
The Soul of Kathmandu
Discover the essence of Kathmandu through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Kathmandu, with numerous local clubs and a passionate fan base. The sport draws large crowds during local tournaments and international matches.
Cricket has gained immense popularity in Kathmandu, especially among the youth. The sport is played in both formal leagues and informal street matches, with the national team enjoying a significant following.
Basketball is increasingly popular among the younger population in Kathmandu. Schools and colleges often have basketball teams, and the sport is played in urban parks and court facilities.
Volleyball is a popular team sport in Kathmandu, often played in schools and community centers. It is recognized for its accessibility and is enjoyed both recreationally and competitively.
Martial arts, including Karate and Taekwondo, are widely practiced in Kathmandu. Various training centers offer classes for different age groups, contributing to its growing popularity.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kathmandu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Kathmandu cater to vegetarians and vegans, offering dishes such as vegetable momos, tofu curry, and lentil soups. The city's culinary scene is generally accommodating to these dietary preferences.
While traditional Nepalese cuisine heavily features grains like rice and wheat, it’s possible to find gluten-free options in Kathmandu. Most restaurants are willing to accommodate gluten-free requests, and some specialized cafes and eateries offer gluten-free baked goods and dishes.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kathmandu with these cultural adventures.
