On this information, we’ll be protecting the very best issues to do in Kathmandu, Nepal. Whether or not you’re visiting earlier than a Himalayan trek or exploring the town in its personal proper, there are many unimaginable locations to go to in Kathmandu and experiences you gained’t need to miss.
“The visitor is God.” This can be a phrase you’ll hear repeated numerous instances on a go to to Nepal. The factor is, you rapidly realise it’s not simply an empty platitude; the Nepali folks actually imply it. It’s a philosophy they reside by, made evident within the heat, kindness, and real hospitality you’ll expertise all through your time on this fascinating nation.
Most visits to Nepal start at Tribhuvan Worldwide Airport in Kathmandu. Right here you’ll be greeted by a sea of pleasant faces eager to know which mountain you’re planning to climb and providing their guiding providers. Hop in a taxi and head into city, as a result of there’s lots to see and do earlier than you enterprise into the Himalayas. Like many large cities, Kathmandu can really feel chaotic at first. It’s dusty, noisy, and the site visitors might be overwhelming, however give it a day or two and its allure will start to disclose itself.
Beneath are a few of my favorite issues to do in Kathmandu, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems, that will help you uncover the easiest of Nepal’s fascinating capital.
The Greatest Time to Go to Kathmandu
When researching my journey to Nepal, two seasons had been repeatedly really useful on-line: spring (March to Could) and post-monsoon (October to November). I opted for the previous however spent the whole 5 weeks listening to that I ought to have visited through the latter. While the climate was completely nice (gentle temperatures and occasional rain), the visibility was very poor, which means I by no means had clear views of the Himalayas (even when trekking), which was what I actually got here for.
In case your priorities are clear skies and sweeping Himalayan vistas, then I might suggest visiting between October and November – it’s no coincidence that that is peak trekking season.
The place to Keep in Kathmandu
Most journey blogs will suggest Thamel because the place to remain in Kathmandu – it’s the vacationer coronary heart of the town, the place most of the bars, outlets, hostels, and cafes are positioned.
If, like me, you like a bit extra peace and quiet, there are many surrounding areas that may provide this. I opted to remain in Patan, which is technically a distinct metropolis however, in actuality, a 10-minute drive south of central Kathmandu. Through the years, Kathmandu and Patan have expanded till they’ve successfully merged into one steady city space. I additionally spent just a few nights in Lazimpat, which is a brief 10-minute stroll from Thamel, however a lot quieter.
The very best locations to remain in Kathmandu:
- Nomad Resort (Lazimpat) – Snug, fashionable lodge that gives free airport transfers
- Khachhen Residences (Patan) – Nice house within the coronary heart of Patan, a couple of minutes stroll from Durbar Sq.
Getting Round Kathmandu
While many Kathmandu neighbourhoods are walkable, you’ll want transport to journey between them, in addition to to discover additional into the Kathmandu Valley (which I might extremely suggest doing).
The Uber different in Nepal is inDrive, and it’s an app that you just completely need to obtain on your journey. I discovered it to be the simplest and most cost-effective strategy to get round Kathmandu and past.
Be aware: Not like most ride-hailing apps, inDrive permits you to negotiate the fare with drivers earlier than confirming your trip. You’ll additionally want money, as funds are made on to the driving force.
Planning your subsequent Asian journey? Don’t miss our information to the 15 Greatest Locations to Journey in Asia.
Step again in time with a go to to Kathmandu Durbar Sq.
First on the very best issues to do in Kathmandu is the historic coronary heart of Kathmandu – Durbar Sq.. It’s the first place I like to recommend visiting to get a real flavour of Nepali historical past and tradition. The second you set foot on this UNESCO World Heritage Web site, you’ll be transported again in time to the times of medieval warrior kings. Residence to greater than 50 shrines, temples, and palaces, the sq. seems like a residing, open-air museum.
Nevertheless, the sq. may be very a lot alive at the moment, with locals coming right here to supply prayers to each Hindu and Buddhist gods. Take your time exploring the numerous hidden intricacies, admiring the gorgeous pagodas and watching day by day life unfold round you. A few of my highlights embody the Kaal Bhairav shrine, with its fierce black statue of Lord Shiva’s most fearsome manifestation, and the Jagannath Temple, the oldest construction within the sq., well-known for its erotic carvings.
Be aware that there are two different Durbar Squares: one in Patan and one in Bhaktapur, each of that are additionally properly value visiting.
Journey tip:
Overseas guests pay an entrance charge of 1,000 NRP.
If you happen to’d like to increase your ticket for the complete length of your Nepali visa, carry your passport and a passport picture to the primary ticket workplace within the sq. (open from 9 am to five pm). If you happen to go to outdoors these hours, you may stroll across the sq. with out paying the doorway charge.
Circumambulate the Boudhanath Stupa at sundown
There’s something actually particular about becoming a member of the 1000’s of pilgrims, monks and locals on their night kora (or clockwise stroll) across the Boudhanath Stupa. It’s among the best issues to do in Kathmandu. As daylight fades, lots of of butter lamps are lit and the gang strikes slowly round and round. Many chant mantras, spin prayer wheels or quietly depend prayer beads, whereas the occasional few make full-body prostrations at each step.
As one of many largest and most essential stupas on the planet, Boudhanath is the religious coronary heart of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. Its large white dome and all-seeing Buddha eyes have watched over this sacred website for hundreds of years, creating an environment that feels each deeply religious and splendidly welcoming.
If you happen to get bored with circling, I like to recommend stopping at Himalayan Java Espresso and snagging a window seat for a fowl’s-eye view of the scene and a few wonderful people-watching.
High Tip:
Arrive about an hour earlier than sundown to expertise the transition from daylight to nightfall, when the scene is at its most magical.
Store for souvenirs (or mountain climbing gear) in Thamel
If you happen to’re in Nepal, chances are high excessive you’re going trekking. For any last-minute ins and outs (or maybe to get kitted out from head to toe), Thamel is the place you’ll need to head.
The vigorous maze of slim streets is lined with numerous outside tools outlets (largely promoting cheap knock-offs, though there are a handful of real gear shops too), alongside memento stalls, handicraft boutiques and quirky little outlets. You’ll discover prayer flags, miniature prayer wheels, yak wool blankets, singing bowls, hand-carved masks, and extra handwoven scarves and shawls than you would probably think about.
Uncover Nepali historical past and tradition within the Patan Museum
Patan (also called Lalitpur) sits simply throughout the Bagmati River on the southern fringe of Kathmandu, but seems like a world of its personal. Often known as the Metropolis of Arts and Structure, it’s dwelling to one in every of Nepal’s (and a few say South Asia’s) best museums.
The Patan Museum is housed in a superbly restored royal palace within the centre of Patan Durbar Sq. and covers greater than 13 centuries of Nepali artwork, structure and non secular custom. Its lovely galleries are stuffed with intricate wooden carvings, metalwork, and Hindu and Buddhist artworks, displayed aspect by aspect.
This is among the finest issues to do in Kathmandu for anybody wanting a greater understanding of Nepal’s historical past, faith and inventive traditions. Remember to cease by the museum café afterwards, the place you may take pleasure in a espresso within the peaceable gardens of the palace courtyard.
Get pleasure from momos!
You gained’t must look far to search out someplace to pattern momos in Kathmandu. These iconic dumplings, made from a easy flour and water dough, filled with meat or greens, might be discovered on most menus.
I like to recommend attempting jhol momos, which are available in a yummy broth or sauce. If you wish to carry the enjoyment of momos again dwelling with you, there are many cooking courses across the metropolis. A few of my favorite spots for having fun with momos had been:
- Avocado Cafe – nestled in Thamel, this cafe focuses on “contemporary, wholesome and scrumptious” meals (primarily avocados). They provide a pleasant collection of momos, which might be loved in a beautiful outside setting.
- ROKPA Visitor Home Restaurant – a good looking backyard restaurant close to the Boudhanath Stupa. Come right here for some peace (and momos) after your circumambulations.
- Dhokaima Cafe – a captivating cafe positioned in Patan, with beautiful outside seating. I particularly loved the jhol momos right here.
Spend an evening in a Buddhist Monastery
If you happen to’re trying to go a bit deeper in your journey to Nepal, among the best issues to do in Kathmandu is to go to Kopan Monastery within the hills above Kathmandu.
I spent 5 nights right here, collaborating in a silent “Introduction to Buddhism” retreat. You can too select to remain on-site with out collaborating in a course; verify their web site right here for extra particulars. Remember to spend a while exploring the superbly saved gardens, dotted with stupas and providing sweeping views of the town. There’s additionally a restaurant, providing sizzling drinks and meals, a present store, and a library to take pleasure in.
Catch a Himalayan dawn in Nagarkot (and escape the town for just a few days)
Like all main cities, Kathmandu can really feel overwhelming after some time. Once you’re prepared to flee, the Kathmandu Valley provides an incredible break.
Head east (about 16 miles) to the close by hill station of Nagarkot to catch a Himalayan dawn – on a transparent day, the views are astounding (and embody Everest!). There’s loads of mild mountain climbing within the space, as properly. I stayed at this very distinctive group lodge.
When you’ve got extra time, Namo Buddha is one other beautiful place to discover within the valley. Go to the monastery, which is a crucial pilgrimage website for Buddhists in Nepal (I like to recommend a go to to the cafe too) and verify in to the superb Namo Buddha Resort, which was an lodging spotlight from my journey in Nepal.
Be aware: I spent every week within the Kathmandu Valley, recognized for its gorgeous mountain views, and through that interval I noticed the Himalayas for roughly half-hour one morning (which was solely due to a full afternoon of rain the day prior). Because the locals will inform you, repeatedly, the one time you might be assured Himalayan views is October and November. I nonetheless liked getting out into the Kathmandu Valley and would suggest a go to at any time of 12 months.
Pattern Newari delicacies
The Kathmandu Valley is dwelling to the Newar folks and their wealthy culinary traditions. Newari meals is not like something I’ve tasted earlier than; stuffed with distinctive, daring, earthy flavours, it’s created from native crops such because the timmur (or Newari pepper).
If you wish to attempt a little bit of every part, I might suggest ordering a Samay Baji (a Newari meals platter that features crushed rice, spiced meats, pickles, and fermented greens). I additionally liked chatamari, or “Newari pizza”, made from a skinny rice flour base topped with egg, minced meat or greens.
Baiga Vutoo in Bhaktapur was my favorite spot for Newari meals – you may take pleasure in watching the meals being ready within the open kitchen, which provides to the expertise.
Take a day journey to Bhatkapur
Positioned simply thirty minutes east of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur is the third within the trio of historic royal cities of the Kathmandu Valley. Just like the others (Kathmandu and Patan), it options its personal Durbar Sq., stuffed with superbly preserved medieval structure.
This metropolis is particular for its arts and crafts heritage, which is obvious as you stroll by the pedestrianised centre of city. Go to Pottery Sq. and get your arms soiled in a pottery workshop, watch native craftsmen carving wooden within the open studios that line the streets and cease by the Peacock paper manufacturing unit to see how conventional Nepali paper is made – and choose up some distinctive souvenirs when you’re there.
Most significantly, you’ll want to pattern the native delicacy juju dhau – a candy, creamy yogurt comprised of buffalo milk, served in conventional clay cups and described regionally as “the king of yoghurt”.
If you happen to really feel like staying in a single day, I’d extremely suggest Milla Guesthouse, a good looking boutique lodge that was designed by the architect behind the Patan Museum.
Kathmandu is a superb place to start a visit to Nepal, however there’s a lot extra to this glorious nation. From Himalayan trekking and wilderness safaris to historic monasteries and charming medieval cities, Nepal has an enormous quantity to supply. Remember to get out and discover, and spend time attending to know the individuals who make this nation so particular.
Earlier than my journey, I saved listening to the identical factor: “Nepal is my favorite nation.” Now, I can see precisely why. I’ve a sense you’ll too!
Can’t get sufficient of South Asia? There’s lots extra of Nepal to discover, or you may go all in with our India and Sri Lanka guides for the final word South Asian journey.
Have you ever been to Kathmandu?
What are the very best issues to do in Kathmandu? Something you’d add to this Kathmandu bucket listing?
Nikki Scrivener
You may observe Nikki’s work and adventures on @wandering_scrivener and at The Wandering Scrivener on Substack.