Things To Do
in Kathmandu

The classic Nepali plate of lentil soup (dal), rice (bhat) and vegetable curry (tarkari) — filling, nutritious and available everywhere; best sampled at local eateries (bhat ghars) or family-run restaurants.

Must-Try!

Steamed or fried dumplings filled with meat (buffalo/chicken) or vegetables, often served with a spicy tomato-ginger chutney; best tried from street vendors or specialized momo shops in Thamel.

A traditional Newar ceremonial platter with beaten rice, barbecued or fried items, pickles and lentils — hearty and rich, served in Newari restaurants or during festivals.

Tibetan/Chinese-influenced noodle soups or stir-fries, popular in colder months and found in many budget cafes and street stalls.

Remove shoes before entering many temples and stupas, dress modestly, and avoid entering inner sanctums if not permitted. Women should be cautious during certain temple areas where access is restricted.

A single 'Namaste' with hands pressed together and a slight bow is a polite greeting. Avoid touching people's heads (considered sacred) and use the right hand for giving/receiving items when possible.

Ask permission before photographing people, particularly at religious sites or when rituals are underway. At Pashupatinath and some cremation ghats, photography rules are strict — follow signage and local guidance.

Public displays of affection are frowned upon in many areas. Be mindful during festival times and when encountering processions or religious observances.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; small tips for guides (10–15% or negotiated per day), drivers, and restaurant staff are common. In smaller local eateries and street stalls tipping is rare — a rounded-up bill or small change is fine.

Nepalese Rupee (NPR) is the local currency; cash dominates for most purchases. ATMs are widespread in Kathmandu but can run out of cash during busy times. Credit/debit cards are accepted in mid-to-high-end hotels, restaurants and shops; mobile wallets (eSewa, Khalti) are growing but mainly used locally.

Warm days, melting winter haze and blooming rhododendrons on nearby hills; visibility of distant peaks improves toward late spring. It’s a popular time for trekking lower-elevation trails and city festivals.

Hotter temperatures and frequent heavy rains that can cause road closures and slippery trails; humidity is high and air quality often improves after rain but cloud cover suppresses mountain views.

The best travel season: clear skies, mild temperatures and excellent mountain visibility, plus major festivals like Dashain and Tihar which add color and cultural experiences. Expect higher tourist numbers and busy services.

Cool to chilly mornings and nights, with pleasant daytime temperatures; haze and fog can reduce visibility, but crisp days offer good conditions for lower-elevation hiking. Higher-altitude treks will be cold and may have snow.

The main international airport serving Kathmandu, located close to the city center; connected to domestic flights and international routes. Ground transport options include metered taxis, hotel transfers and limited shuttle services.

Located in Pokhara (approx. 20–30 minute flight or 6–8 hour drive), it’s useful for travelers heading to the Annapurna region. Domestic flights operate regularly from Kathmandu with several carriers.

Serves the Lumbini region (Buddha’s birthplace); reachable by short domestic flights from Kathmandu or a longer road transfer. Useful if combining cultural visits to southern Nepal with Kathmandu.

Regional airports serving the eastern and southeastern regions; primarily for domestic connections and useful if planning multi-destination travel within Nepal.

The indigenous people of the Kathmandu Valley with a rich cultural, artistic and culinary heritage — concentrated in old parts of Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur.

Large groups contributing to Nepal’s cultural and administrative life; Brahmin and Chhetri communities are historically prominent, while Tamang and Gurung communities contribute distinct traditions and languages.

People from the southern plains and other regions of Nepal add cultural diversity to the city, reflected in food, markets and festivals.

Kathmandu hosts diplomats, NGO workers, volunteers, and long-term travelers who form visible international communities, particularly in Thamel and Jhamsikhel.

One of the most popular sports with active local leagues and widespread informal play in playgrounds and school fields.

Growing in popularity with organized clubs and enthusiastic local participation — common to find matches in public grounds.

Popular recreational sports played in schools, colleges and community courts throughout the valley.

While not a 'sport' in the conventional sense, trekking, climbing and expedition activities are central to Nepalese outdoor culture and draw both locals and international visitors.

Vegetarian food is widely available: dal bhat, vegetable momos, noodle dishes and Indian-style curries are easy to find. Ask for ‘no onion, no garlic’ if following specific diets; Hindu and Buddhist vegetarian eateries are common around temples and Stupa areas.

Vegan options exist but may require specifying no ghee, yogurt or paneer. Many cafes can adapt dishes; carry a translation card explaining vegan needs in Nepali to avoid confusion.

Rice-based dishes (dal bhat, rice noodles, steamed momos made from rice wrappers in some places) are safe choices, but cross-contamination is possible. Bring snacks if you have severe intolerance.

Drink bottled or boiled water; avoid raw salads from open stalls and prefer busy vendors with high turnover for street food to reduce risk of stomach upset.