On this information, we’ll be overlaying the most effective issues to do in Kathmandu, Nepal. Whether or not you’re visiting earlier than a Himalayan trek or exploring town in its personal proper, there are many unbelievable locations to go to in Kathmandu and experiences you gained’t need to miss.
“The visitor is God” It is a phrase you’ll hear repeated numerous occasions on a go to to Nepal. The factor is, you rapidly realise it’s not simply an empty platitude, the Nepali individuals actually imply it. It’s a philosophy they dwell by, made evident within the heat, kindness and real hospitality you’ll expertise all through your time on this charming nation.
Most visits to Nepal start at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan Worldwide Airport. 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 companies. Hop in a taxi and head into city, as a result of there’s loads 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 could be overwhelming, however give it a day or two and its attraction will start to disclose itself.
Under are a few of my favorite issues to do in Kathmandu, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems, that can assist you uncover the perfect of Nepal’s fascinating capital.
The Finest Time to Go to
When researching my journey to Nepal, two seasons have been repeatedly really helpful on-line: spring (March to Might) and post-monsoon (October to November). I opted for the previous however spent the complete 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, that 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
Most journey blogs will suggest Thamel because the place to remain in Kathmandu – it’s the vacationer coronary heart of town, the place most of the bars, retailers, hostels and cafes are situated.
If, like me, you favor 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 unique metropolis however, in actuality, a 10-minute drive south of central Kathmandu. Over time, Kathmandu and Patan have expanded till they’ve successfully merged into one steady city space. I additionally spent a couple of nights in Lazimpat, which is a brief 10-minute stroll from Thamel, however a lot quieter.
One of the best locations to remain:
- Nomad Lodge (Lazimpat) – Comfy, trendy resort that provides free airport transfers
- Khachhen Residences (Patan) – Nice condominium within the coronary heart of Patan, a couple of minutes stroll from Durbar Sq.
Getting Round
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 various in Nepal is inDrive, and it’s an app that you simply completely need to obtain to your journey. I discovered it to be the simplest and most cost-effective solution to get round Kathmandu and past.
Notice: Not like most ride-hailing apps, inDrive allows you to negotiate the fare with drivers earlier than confirming your experience. You’ll additionally want money, as funds are made on to the motive force.
Planning your subsequent Asian journey? Don’t miss our information to the 15 Finest Locations to Journey in Asia.
The Finest Issues To Do In Kathmandu, Nepal
Step again in time with a go to to Kathmandu Durbar Sq.
The historic coronary heart of Kathmandu is Durbar Sq., and 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. House to greater than 50 shrines, temples and palaces, the sq. appears like a residing, open-air museum.
Nonetheless, the sq. may be very a lot alive at this time, 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 each 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.
Notice that there are two different Durbar Squares: one in Patan and one in Bhaktapur, each of that are additionally properly price visiting.
Journey tip:
International guests pay an entrance payment of 1,000 NRP.
For those who’d like to increase your ticket for the total length of your Nepali visa, carry your passport and a passport photograph to the primary ticket workplace within the sq. (open from 9 am to five pm). For those who go to outdoors these hours, you’ll be able to stroll across the sq. with out paying the doorway payment.
Circumambulate the Boudhanath Stupa at sundown
There’s something actually particular about becoming a member of the hundreds of pilgrims, monks and locals on their night kora (or clockwise stroll) across the Boudhanath Stupa. 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 rely prayer beads, whereas the occasional few make full-body prostrations at each step.
As one of many largest and most essential stupas on the earth, Boudhanath is the religious coronary heart of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. Its big white dome and all-seeing Buddha eyes have watched over this sacred web site for hundreds of years, creating an environment that feels each deeply religious and splendidly welcoming.
For those who 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 individuals 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 climbing gear) in Thamel
For those who’re in Nepal, chances are high excessive you’re going trekking. For any last-minute fine details (or maybe to get kitted out from head to toe), Thamel is the place you’ll need to head.
The full of life maze of slim streets is lined with numerous outside gear retailers (largely promoting cheap knock-offs, though there are a handful of real gear shops too), alongside memento stalls, handicraft boutiques and quirky little retailers. 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 referred to as Lalitpur) sits simply throughout the Bagmati River on the southern fringe of Kathmandu, but appears like a world of its personal. Referred to as the Metropolis of Arts and Structure, it’s dwelling to one in all Nepal’s (and a few say South Asia’s) most interesting museums.
The Patan Museum is housed in a fantastically 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 stunning galleries are crammed with intricate wooden carvings, metalwork, and Hindu and Buddhist artworks, displayed aspect by aspect.
I might suggest a go to to anybody wanting a greater understanding of Nepal’s historical past, faith and inventive traditions. You’ll want to cease by the museum café afterwards, the place you’ll be able to take pleasure in a espresso within the peaceable gardens of the palace courtyard.
Take pleasure in momos!
You gained’t must look far to seek out someplace to pattern momos in Kathmandu. These iconic dumplings, fabricated from a easy flour and water dough, full of meat or greens, could be discovered on most menus.
I like to recommend making an attempt jhol momos, which are available a yummy broth or sauce. If you wish to carry the enjoyment of momos again dwelling with you, there are many cooking lessons across the metropolis. A few of my favorite spots for having fun with momos have been:
- Avocado Cafe – nestled in Thamel, this cafe focuses on “recent, wholesome and scrumptious” meals (primarily avocados). They provide a pleasant collection of momos, which could be loved in a stunning outside setting.
- ROKPA Visitor Home Restaurant – a gorgeous backyard restaurant close to the Boudhanath Stupa. Come right here for some peace (and momos) after your circumambulations.
- Dhokaima Cafe – a captivating cafe situated in Patan, with pretty outside seating. I particularly loved the jhol momos right here.
Spend an evening in Buddhist Monastery
For those who’re seeking to go somewhat deeper in your journey to Nepal, then I extremely suggest a go to to Kopan Monastery within the hills above Kathmandu.
I spent 5 nights right here, participating in a silent “Introduction to Buddhism” retreat. You may also select to remain on-site with out participating in a course; test their web site right here for extra particulars. You’ll want to spend a while exploring the fantastically stored gardens, dotted with stupas and providing sweeping views of town. There’s additionally a restaurant, providing scorching drinks and meals, a present store, and a library to take pleasure in.
Catch a Himalayan dawn in Nagarkot (and escape town for a couple of days)
Like all main cities, Kathmandu can really feel overwhelming after some time. If you’re prepared to flee, the Kathmandu Valley provides an awesome 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 climbing within the space, as properly. I stayed at this very distinctive neighborhood lodge.
When you’ve got extra time, Namo Buddha is one other pretty place to discover within the valley. Go to the monastery, which is a vital pilgrimage web site for Buddhists in Nepal (I like to recommend a go to to the cafe too) and test in to the wonderful Namo Buddha Resort, which was an lodging spotlight from my journey in Nepal.
Notice: I spent per 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 because of a full afternoon of rain the day prior). Because the locals will let you know, repeatedly, the one time you’re 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 individuals and their wealthy culinary traditions. Newari meals is not like something I’ve tasted earlier than; filled with distinctive, daring, earthy flavours, it’s created from native vegetation such because the timmur (or Newari pepper).
If you wish to attempt a little bit of every little thing, I might suggest ordering a Samay Baji (a Newari meals platter that features overwhelmed rice, spiced meats, pickles, and fermented greens). I additionally liked chatamari, or “Newari pizza”, fabricated 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’ll be able to take pleasure in watching the meals being ready within the open kitchen, which provides to the expertise.
Take a day journey to Bhatkapur
Situated 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., crammed with fantastically 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 palms 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 decide up some distinctive souvenirs when you’re there.
Most significantly, you’ll want to pattern the native delicacy juju dhau – a candy, creamy yogurt produced from buffalo milk, served in conventional clay cups and described domestically as “the king of yoghurt”.
For those who really feel like staying in a single day, I’d extremely suggest Milla Guesthouse, a gorgeous boutique resort 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 excellent nation. From Himalayan trekking and wilderness safaris to historic monasteries and charming medieval cities, Nepal has an enormous quantity to supply. You’ll want to get out and discover, and spend time attending to know the individuals who make this nation so particular.
Earlier than my journey, I stored 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 loads extra of Nepal to discover, or you’ll be able to 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 most effective issues to do in Kathmandu? Something you’d add to this Kathmandu bucket listing?
Nikki Scrivener
You may comply with Nikki’s work and adventures on @wandering_scrivener and at The Wandering Scrivener on Substack.