Kathmandu Travel Guide
Nepal's vibrant capital — where ancient temples sit beside modern cafes, where rickshaws share the road with motorbikes, and every alley in Thamel hides a story. Here's everything you need to know.
Best time
Oct-Nov
Daily budget
Rs. 2,000-5,000
Airport
Tribhuvan (KTM)
UNESCO sites
7 in Valley
Top Things to Do in Kathmandu
Thamel
Kathmandu's tourist hub — shops, restaurants, bakeries, trekking gear stores. Great for first-night stay.
Boudhanath Stupa
One of the largest stupas in the world. A UNESCO World Heritage Site. Best at sunset when locals do kora (circumambulation).
Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)
Ancient stupa on a hill with panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley. Be careful with the monkeys — they snatch food and phones.
Pashupatinath
Hindu temple complex on the Bagmati River. See cremation ghats, sadhus, and ancient architecture. Respectful dress required.
Kathmandu Durbar Square
Royal palace square with ancient Newari architecture. Some buildings damaged in 2015 earthquake but still impressive.
Patan Durbar Square
Just across the Bagmati River in Lalitpur. Better preserved than Kathmandu Durbar Square. Don't miss the Patan Museum.
Practical Tips for Kathmandu
- Visa on arrival — Available at Tribhuvan Airport. 15 days = $30, 30 days = $50, 90 days = $125. Bring passport photos.
- SIM card — Buy NTC or Ncell at the airport. Rs. 500-1,000 for a tourist SIM with data.
- ATMs — Available in Thamel. Max withdrawal Rs. 10,000-35,000 per transaction. Carry cash for small shops.
- Taxis — Use the "Pathao" app (like Uber) or negotiate before getting in. Thamel to airport should cost Rs. 400-600.
- Food — Try momos (dumplings), dal bhat (lentil soup + rice), and Newari cuisine. Avoid tap water — drink bottled or filtered.
- Scams — Beware of "free" guides who demand money later, fake gem sellers, and "taxi drivers" who overcharge. Book through SangiNepal for verified companions.