If you're planning a trip to Nepal, there’s no better place to begin your journey than Kathmandu. Nestled in a lush valley beneath the Himalayas, this legendary city is where ancient temples, sacred rituals, and rich traditions thrive alongside bustling markets, eclectic cafés, and vibrant street life. Home to 2.5 million people and visited by thousands of travelers year-round, Kathmandu is Nepal’s cultural, political, and spiritual heartbeat. Whether you’re preparing for a Himalayan expedition or looking to soak in history and cuisine, Kathmandu has something for every kind of traveler.
Top 5 Reasons to Visit Kathmandu
1. A City of Endless Festivals
No matter when you visit, there’s likely a festival lighting up the city. Tihar (Festival of Lights), Indra Jatra, and Shivaratri are just a few of the major celebrations, often marked by parades, rituals, and public gatherings that offer a firsthand look at Nepalese culture in motion.
2. Adventure Starts Here
Kathmandu is ringed by the hills of Shivapuri, Phulchoki, Nagarjun, and Chandragiri – each offering treks, wildlife spotting, and panoramic views. It’s also the ideal base for adventure sports like paragliding, mountain biking, or bungee jumping.
3. History on Every Corner
Over 2,000 years old, Kathmandu is a living museum. The city’s temples, shrines, and palaces — including sites like Narayanhiti Palace and Pashupatinath Temple — tell the stories of Nepal’s dynasties and spiritual depth.
4. Durbar Square – The Soul of the City
A walk through Kathmandu’s Durbar Square feels like stepping into a myth. Ancient architecture, royal palaces, and the mysterious Kumari (Living Goddess) still preside over this UNESCO-listed site.
5. Immerse in Local Culture
Even without an itinerary, Kathmandu fills your days with meaning. Wander into a tea shop, watch morning pujas, chat with shopkeepers, or join locals for chiya — and let the city reveal itself to you.
What to See in Kathmandu
Boudhanath Stupa
A spiritual center of Tibetan Buddhism, this vast white dome covered in prayer flags is one of the most serene spots in the city.
Durbar Square
With its temples, museums, and the Kumari’s residence, this square is the heart of old Kathmandu.
Pashupatinath Temple
Nepal’s most sacred Hindu temple complex, where religious life and death rituals unfold along the Bagmati River.
Narayanhiti Palace Museum
Formerly a royal residence, this grand building now houses Nepal’s crown jewels, banquet halls, and relics of modern monarchy.
Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)
With sweeping views of the valley, this ancient hilltop stupa is sacred to both Buddhists and Hindus — and guarded by curious monkeys.
Where to Eat in Kathmandu
Kathmandu is a food-lover’s playground. Try steaming momos (dumplings) from a street vendor, enjoy a thali set with daal bhat, or sip chiya in a neighborhood teahouse.
Budget Tip: Skip the tourist zones for local spots like Angan, where you can enjoy a Masala Dosa for under Nrs.100 (Nepalese Rupees)
Cultural Treat: Head to Wunjala Moskva for traditional food with live Nepali music and dance performances.
When to Visit Kathmandu
For the best experience, plan your trip in spring (March–May) or autumn (September–November). These seasons bring mild temperatures, clear skies, and fewer monsoon disruptions. Winters are cool but comfortable, while summer offers lush greenery — along with heavy rains.
Getting to and Around Kathmandu
By Air: Fly into Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), just east of the city center. Taxis cost around Nrs. 400–500 (Nepalese Rupees), or less if you’re willing to walk to the outer lot.
For cheap flights check out https://www.kayak.co.uk/flights
By Car: Rent a car with a driver for flexible day trips. Shop around for rates, which can vary widely.
By Bus: Intercity buses run from the Kalanki (south) and Balaju (north) stations, though be prepared for rough roads and limited comfort.
For detailed travel planning, updated accommodation rates, and top travel deals to Kathmandu, check out the KAYAK Kathmandu Travel Guide. It’s a great resource for comparing prices and exploring more options for your stay.