Welcome to Kathmandu, the vibrant capital of Nepal. When you first come to this historical city, you will be surprised by what you see or experience. ‘Chaotic,’ ‘dirty,’ and ‘loud’ are words that will come to your mind the very first time. Street vendors nagging, car horns, rubbish on the street, and the thick air pollution will frustrate you. But when you look past all these things, you will find that Kathmandu is an incredibly unique city with the friendliest people; they will always greet you with a smile and “Namaste” wherever you go. This city is famous for its history, culture, and adventure. Kathmandu offers a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern life. In this Kathmandu travel guide, I’ll explore the best things to do, where to stay, how to get around, and helpful tips to make your visit to Kathmandu a memorable experience.
Key points about Kathmandu
Capital City: Kathmandu is Nepal’s capital and the country’s largest city.
Historical Significance: The city has a rich history of over 2,000 years. It was originally known as Kantipur, meaning “City of Glory.”
Population: Kathmandu is densely populated, with a population of over 862K people.
Altitude: The city is situated at an altitude of approximately 1,400 meters above sea level.
Religious Diversity: Hinduism 81.2%, Buddhism 8.2%, Islam 5.1%, Kirat 3.2%, Christianity 1.8%.
Earthquake History: Kathmandu has experienced several significant earthquakes, with the most recent major one occurring in April 2015.
Thamel: Thamel is the main tourist hub in Kathmandu, known for its bustling streets, vibrant nightlife, and a wide range of shops, restaurants, and hotels
Top 5 reasons to visit Kathmandu
- Cultural Richness: Kathmandu is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple, where you can immerse yourself in the spiritual and cultural heritage of Nepal.
- Vibrant Thamel Area: The Thamel area is a tourist haven, offering a bustling market scene, lively nightlife, and diverse culinary experiences.
- Gateway to Trekking Routes: Kathmandu is a starting point for some of the world’s most famous trekking routes, such as the Everest Base Camp trek and the Annapurna Circuit, making it perfect for adventure seekers.
- Traditional Markets: The city’s traditional markets, like Ason Bazaar, provide a unique shopping experience where you can find local handicrafts, spices, and traditional goods.
- Friendly Locals: Kathmandu’s friendly and welcoming locals add to the charm, making visitors feel at home and providing an authentic cultural experience.
Best Time to Visit Kathmandu
Kathmandu enjoys a moderate climate, which makes it a year-round destination. The best month to visit depends mostly on what you want to do while you are there. However, the best times to visit are during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).
In spring (March to May), with pleasant temperatures (15°C to 25°C) and blooming flowers, especially rhododendrons, the season provides a perfect backdrop for sightseeing.
During autumn (September to November), the clear skies and moderate temperatures, create the ideal condition for trekking, outdoor activities, and festivals.
On the other hand, in winter temperatures will be low specially at night, but you’ll be rewarded with clear skies, incredible panoramas and quieter trekking trails, as there are fewer visitors.
Tip: Avoid the monsoon season (June to August), when heavy rains can disrupt travel plans, cause landslides, and obscure mountain views.
Getting to Kathmandu
Kathmandu is well connected to the rest of the world via Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA). Infact direct flights are available from many countries, including India, China, Thailand, the UAE, and Qatar.
Upon arrival, taxis are readily available to take you to the city center, which is about a 15-30 minute drive depending on traffic. Therefore, transportation from the airport is generally convenient.
Tip: Negotiate taxi fares before the ride as Kathmandu taxis rarely use meters.
Where to Stay in Kathmandu
Kathmandu offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. The most popular areas to stay are Thamel, Boudhanath, and Patan.
Thamel: Thamel is the tourist hub of Kathmandu and is filled with hundreds of hotels, restaurants, cafes, shops, and trekking agencies. Consequently, it’s the best area for budget travelers and those looking to be at the center of the action.
Recommended hotels: Kathmandu Guest House, Hotel Mums Home, Ambassador Garden Home.
Boudhanath: For a more peaceful and spiritual stay, Boudhanath offers a serene environment near the famous stupa.
Recommended hotels: Hyatt Regency Kathmandu, Aarya Chaitya Inn, Hotel Tibet International.
Patan (Lalitpur): Just south of Kathmandu, Patan offers a more relaxed vibe with a focus on art, culture, and history.
Recommended: Hotel Himalaya, Boutique Heritage Home, Shaligram Hotel.
Top Things to Do in Kathmandu
Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is a rich treasure of history, culture, and natural beauty. From ancient temples to breathtaking viewpoints and bustling markets, the city offers endless experiences. According to this Kathmandu Travel Guide here are some of the top things to do in Kathmandu.
Explore Durbar Square
Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the heart of the old city. This historic area is home to stunning architecture, ancient temples, and palaces dating back to the late 14th to mid 17th century. In particular must-see attractions include the Kumari Ghar, where the living goddess Kumari resides, and the Hanuman Dhoka Palace Museum.
Tip: Although some parts of Durbar Square were damaged during the 2015 earthquake, restoration efforts are ongoing, and the area still offers a fascinating glimpse into Kathmandu's royal past.
Visit Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)
Located on a hilltop, Swayambhunath Stupa is one of the most iconic religious sites in Nepal. Also known as the Monkey Temple due to the population of monkeys that roam the area, the stupa offers panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley. Moreover, the mix of Buddhist and Hindu symbolism makes Swayambhunath a culturally significant site.
Tip: Visit in the early morning for a peaceful experience and to avoid crowds.
Boudhanath Stupa
Another UNESCO World Heritage site, Boudhanath Stupa is one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world. It’s a significant pilgrimage site for Tibetan Buddhists and is surrounded by monasteries, shops, and cafes. Notably, the stupa’s massive white dome, adorned with colorful prayer flags, creates a visually stunning atmosphere.
Tip: Visit at dusk to witness the stupa come alive with butter lamps and prayers from devotees.
Pashupatinath Temple
One of the holiest temples for Hindus, Pashupatinath is located on the banks of the Bagmati River. The temple complex is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a center for pilgrimage. Although non-Hindus are not allowed inside the main temple, the surrounding area is fascinating to explore, especially during festivals like Maha Shivaratri.
Tip: Be respectful of the rituals and cremation ceremonies that take place along the river.
Patan (Lalitpur)
Just across the Bagmati River from Kathmandu, Patan is another historic city famous for its ancient Durbar Square and its rich artistic heritage. Patan Museum is a highlight, showcasing traditional Nepali art, including beautiful bronze sculptures. Patan’s quieter streets and hidden courtyards offer a peaceful escape from the chaos of central Kathmandu.
Tip: Take a walking tour of Patan to discover hidden shrines, local workshops, and traditional Newari architecture.
Garden of Dreams
For a relaxing break, visit the Garden of Dreams, an Edwardian-style Garden located near Thamel. It’s a beautifully landscaped space with fountains, pavilions, and cozy corners to read a book or have tea. The garden also hosts cultural events and performances.
Tip: The garden is a great place to unwind after a day of sightseeing or shopping in Thamel.
Local Markets and Shopping
Kathmandu offers a diverse shopping experience, ranging from bustling street markets to boutique shops selling handicrafts, textiles, and traditional art. According to this Kathmandu Travel Guide here are some must-visit spots for shopping:
Asan Bazaar: One of the oldest and most vibrant markets in Kathmandu, Asan offers everything from spices and produce to household items and textiles.
Thamel: The streets of Thamel are lined with shops selling trekking gear, pashmina shawls, singing bowls, and traditional crafts. Don’t forget to bargain!
Patan: Known for its metalwork and traditional Nepali art, Patan is a great place to buy unique souvenirs, including statues, pottery, and jewelry.
Tip: Bargaining is common in Kathmandu, so don’t hesitate to negotiate prices in local markets.
Getting Around Kathmandu
Kathmandu can be a chaotic city to navigate due to traffic and narrow streets, yet there are several ways to get around:
Taxis: Taxis are widely available, but make sure to negotiate the fare before starting the ride, as most do not use meters.
Rickshaws: For short distances within the city, rickshaws are a fun and eco-friendly way to get around.
Walking: Many of Kathmandu’s top attractions are located near each other, making walking an ideal way to explore the city’s historic streets.
Motorbikes and Scooters: For the more adventurous, renting a motorbike or scooter is an option, although caution is advised due to traffic and road conditions.
Food and Dining in Kathmandu
Nepali cuisine is a blend of flavors influenced by Tibetan, Indian, and Chinese culinary traditions. Kathmandu offers a variety of dining options, ranging from street food stalls to fine dining restaurants. This Kathmandu Travel Guide suggests below must-try dishes while you are in Kathmandu.
Must-try local dishes:
Dal Bhat: A traditional Nepali meal of lentil soup, rice, and curry.
Momos: Nepali dumplings filled with vegetables or meat, served with spicy dipping sauce.
Newari Cuisine: Try local delicacies like Chatamari (Nepali pizza) and Yomari (rice flour dumplings with sweet fillings).
Popular restaurants in Kathmandu:
OR2K: A popular vegetarian restaurant in Thamel known for its Middle Eastern-inspired menu.
Bhojan Griha: Located in Dillibazar, this restaurant offers delicious Newari food.
Third Eye Restaurant: One of the best places in Thamel for traditional Nepali, Indian, and Tibetan food.
Tip: Make sure to try a cup of Masala Chai or butter tea, especially after a day of sightseeing.
Safety and Health Tips
Pollution: Kathmandu can be dusty and polluted, so consider wearing a mask if you’re sensitive to pollution.
Tap Water: Avoid drinking tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water.
Pickpocketing: Keep an eye on your belongings, in crowded areas.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Kathmandu is a captivating city that blends ancient traditions with modern-day activities. Whether you’re exploring sacred temples, wandering through historic squares, or enjoying a meal in a local restaurant, Kathmandu offers a unique experience that reflects the spirit and culture of Nepal. With its rich history, stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere, Kathmandu is sure to leave a lasting impression on every traveler.
Don’t forget to check out my other guide on Bandipur.
