Kathmandu, Nepal Travel Guide

Discover Kathmandu, Nepal's vibrant capital, where ancient temples, bustling markets, and Himalayan adventures await in a city rich with culture and history.

Home
Travel Guides
Nepal
Kathmandu

Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is a vibrant and historical destination nestled in a valley surrounded by the majestic Himalayas. This city is a melting pot of cultures, traditions, and modernity, offering a unique blend of ancient temples, bustling markets, and scenic mountain views. Walking through the streets of Kathmandu, you will encounter the rich history and spirituality that permeates the city. Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit with its stunning palaces, courtyards, and temples. Nearby, the Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, offers panoramic views of the valley and a chance to experience Buddhist culture up close. For those seeking adventure, Kathmandu serves as the perfect starting point for treks into the Himalayas, including the famous routes to Everest Base Camp and the Annapurna Circuit. The city's Thamel district is a hub for trekkers, providing all the necessary gear, guides, and travel information. After a day of exploration, indulge in local Nepali cuisine at one of the many restaurants and street food stalls, or relax in a cozy café with a cup of traditional masala tea.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kathmandu.

Visit Durbar Square early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.
Stay in the Thamel district for easy access to trekking agencies, restaurants, and shopping.
Carry small denominations of Nepali Rupees for easier transactions at local markets and street vendors.
Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for uneven pavements and lots of walking.
Respect local customs by dressing modestly, especially when visiting temples and religious sites.

Neighbourhoods in Kathmandu

Durbar Square

Swayambhunath

Thamel

Boudhanath

Pashupatinath

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Kathmandu

Explore Kathmandu: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Kathmandu

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Pashupatinath Temple

Discover the spiritual heart of Nepal at Pashupatinath Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in culture, history, and devotion.

4.7

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Discover the historical richness and vibrant atmosphere of Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the heart of Nepal's capital.

4.5

Patan Darbar Square

Discover the exquisite architecture and vibrant culture of Patan Darbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Lalitpur, Nepal.

4.6

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Experience the cultural richness and architectural splendor of Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Nepal.

4.6

Best landmarks in Kathmandu

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Browse the full guide

All Landmarks

Pashupatinath Temple

Explore the spiritual essence of Pashupatinath Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a pivotal pilgrimage destination in Kathmandu, Nepal.

4.7

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Explore the enchanting Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in history, culture, and architectural wonders in the heart of Nepal.

4.5

Patan Darbar Square

Explore Patan Darbar Square: A UNESCO World Heritage Site brimming with history, stunning architecture, and vibrant local culture in Lalitpur, Nepal.

4.6

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site brimming with culture and charm.

4.6

Best restaurants in Kathmandu

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Browse the full guide

All Restaurants

OR2K

Discover OR2K in Kathmandu: A premier organic restaurant offering delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes in a warm ambiance.

4.3

Walnut Bistro

Experience the best of local and international cuisine at Walnut Bistro - a culinary treasure in Kathmandu.

4.7

Jasper Restaurant - Thamel, Kathmandu

Experience the best of local and international cuisine at Jasper Restaurant in Thamel, Kathmandu – where every meal is a celebration.

4.7

Mezze by Roadhouse

Experience the fusion of local flavors and international cuisine at Mezze by Roadhouse in the heart of Kathmandu.

4.2

Best bars in Kathmandu

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Browse the full guide

All Bars

Purple Haze Rock Bar

Discover the lively nightlife at Purple Haze Rock Bar in Thamel, Kathmandu, where live music and great drinks create an unforgettable experience.

4.4

Shisha Lounge and Bar

Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and culture at Shisha Lounge and Bar in Thamel, Kathmandu, where delightful shisha flavors await.

4.3

Sam's Bar

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Kathmandu at Sam's Bar, where refreshing drinks meet a lively atmosphere in the heart of Thamel.

4.5

Reggae Bar (रेग्गे बार)

Experience the essence of Kathmandu's nightlife at Reggae Bar, where vibrant music and delicious food create unforgettable memories.

4.1

Best nightclubs in Kathmandu

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Browse the full guide

All Nightclubs

LOD - Lord of the Drinks

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Kathmandu at LOD - Lord of the Drinks, where exquisite cocktails and electrifying music create an unforgettable experience.

3.9

Ibyza Lounge & Disco

Discover the heart of Kathmandu's nightlife at Ibyza Lounge & Disco, where vibrant music, delicious cuisine, and unforgettable moments await.

3.8

Fire Club Disco Theque & Lounge Bar

Dance the night away at Fire Club Disco Theque & Lounge Bar, Kathmandu's vibrant nightlife hub, where music and fun come alive in the heart of Thamel.

3.8

Turtle Lounge & Club

Turtle Lounge & Club: Dive into Kathmandu's nightlife with vibrant music, cocktails, and an electrifying atmosphere in the heart of Thamel.

4.0

Best shops in Kathmandu

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Browse the full guide

All Shops

Baber Mahal Revisited

Explore the blend of history, shopping, and dining at Baber Mahal Revisited in Kathmandu, a must-visit cultural landmark.

4.4

S.K. Handicrafts Export FAIR TRADE Cashmere Company

Discover the exquisite world of fair trade cashmere at S.K. Handicrafts in Thamel, Kathmandu, where quality meets tradition.

4.9

Le Fabec

Explore the unique blend of contemporary and traditional fashion at Le Fabec, Kathmandu's premier women's clothing destination.

3.3

Great Nepal Online Shopping Pvt.Ltd.

Discover the best footwear in Kathmandu at Great Nepal Online Shopping Pvt.Ltd., blending tradition with modern style for every traveler.

4.9

Explore Kathmandu on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Kathmandu, mapped for you.

Kathmandu Essentials

Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) is the main gateway to Nepal and is located near the heart of Kathmandu. It has direct flights from major cities across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. Once you arrive at TIA, you can take a taxi or pre-arrange airport transfers to your accommodation. Domestic flights are also available if you're exploring other regions of Nepal.
Kathmandu has various transportation options including taxis, buses, and rickshaws. Taxis are plentiful and can be hailed on the street or booked through apps. Buses and microbuses provide an affordable way to travel but can be crowded and confusing for first-timers. Rickshaws are ideal for short distances and offer a unique way to experience the city. Renting a motorbike or bicycle is another option for those comfortable navigating the busy streets.
The official currency of Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). ATMs are widely available in Kathmandu, but it's advisable to carry some cash, especially for small purchases and in areas where card payments aren't accepted. Credit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. Currency exchange services are available at the airport, hotels, and various exchange counters across the city.
Kathmandu is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and be cautious in crowded places to prevent pickpocketing. Areas like Thamel and Durbar Square are popular among tourists and tend to be safer, but also be mindful of scams. Always keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 100 for police assistance and 102 for medical emergencies. Major hospitals like Norvic International Hospital and Patan Hospital are equipped to handle emergencies. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation. Pharmacies are available throughout the city for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes before entering temples and be mindful of local practices. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do use 'Namaste' with a slight bow of the head to greet people respectfully. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't use your left hand for eating or passing food, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Kathmandu like a local, visit the Ason Bazaar and Thamel for shopping and local cuisine. Engage with locals; they are generally friendly and willing to share stories and tips. Don't miss the morning rituals at Pashupatinath Temple and the evening prayers at Boudhanath Stupa. For a unique experience, take a walk through the old streets of Patan and Bhaktapur to explore traditional Newari architecture and culture.

When is the best time to visit Kathmandu?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Kathmandu

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Kathmandu. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloनमस्ते
  [namaste]
- Goodbyeअलविदा
  [alavida]
- Yesहो
  [ho]
- Noहोइन
  [hoin]
- Please/You're welcomeकृपया
  [krupaya]
- Thank youधन्यवाद
  [dhanyabad]
- Excuse me/Sorryमाफ गर्नुहोस्
  [maaf garnuhos]
- How are you?तपाईंलाई कस्तो छ?
  [tapailai kasto cha?]
- Fine. And you?ठिकै छ। तिमी त?
  [thikai cha. timi ta?]
- Do you speak English?तिमी अंग्रेजी बोल्नु हुन्छ?
  [timi angreji bolnu huncha?]
- I don't understandमलाई सम्झिन्छैन
  [malai samjhinchhaina]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseकृपया मेन्यू हेर्न चाहन्छु
  [krupaya menu hernu chahanchu]
- I don't eat meatम भांसा खाँदिन
  [ma bhansa khandina]
- Cheers!भिन्देश!
  [bhindesh!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseकृपया म भुक्तानी गर्न चाहन्छु
  [krupaya ma bhuktani garnu chahanchu]
- Help!मद्दत गर्नुहोस्!
  [maddat garnuhos!]
- Go away!हट्नुहोस्!
  [hatnuhos!]
- Call the Police!प्रहरीलाई फोन गर्नुहोस्!
  [praharilai phone garnuhos!]
- Call a doctor!डाक्टरलाई फोन गर्नुहोस्!
  [daktarlai phone garnuhos!]
- I'm lostम गुम्भिएको छु
  [ma gumbhieko chu]
- I'm illमलाई बिमारी छ
  [malai bimari cha]
- I'd like to buy...म खरिद गर्न चाहन्छु...
  [ma kharid garnu chahanchu...]
- I'm just lookingम फेरि हेर्न आएको छु
  [ma feri hernu aeko chu]
- How much is it?यसको मुल्य कति हो?
  [yasko mulya kati ho?]
- That's too expensiveयो धेरै महँगो छ
  [yo dherai mahango cha]
- Can you lower the price?के तपाईं मुल्य कम गर्न सक्नुहुन्छ?
  [ke tapailai mulya kam garnu hunncha?]
- What time is it?कति बज्यो?
  [kati bajyo?]
- It's one o'clockएक बज्यो
  [ek bajyo]
- Half past (10)दसबज्योको आधा
  [dasbajyoko aadha]
- Morningबिहान
  [bihan]
- Afternoonदिउँसो
  [diunso]
- Eveningसाँझ
  [sanh]
- Yesterdayहिजो
  [hijo]
- Todayआज
  [aaj]
- Tomorrowभोलि
  [bholi]
- 1एक
  [ek]
- 2दुई
  [dui]
- 3तीन
  [tin]
- 4चार
  [char]
- 5पाँच
  [pach]
- 6छ
  [chh]
- 7सात
  [saat]
- 8आठ
  [aath]
- 9नौ
  [nau]
- 10दस
  [das]
- Where's a/the...?कहाँ छ...?
  [kaha cha...?]
- What's the address?ठेगाना के हो?
  [thegana ke ho?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?के तिमी मलाई देखाउन सक्छौ (नक्सामा)?
  [ke timi malai dekhaun sakchau (naksama)?]
- When's the next (bus)?अर्को कति बज्यो (बस)?
  [arko kati bajyo (bas)?]
- A ticket (to ....)एक टिकट (....सम्म)
  [ek ticket (....samma)]

History of Kathmandu

Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, has a history that dates back over 2,000 years. Originally known as 'Kantipur', the city was founded by the Licchavi kingdom in the 3rd century. The oldest known inscription in the Kathmandu Valley dates back to 185 CE during the reign of King Mānadeva I, reflecting the rich and ancient lineage of the region.
The Malla Dynasty, which ruled from the 12th to the 18th century, is often referred to as the 'Golden Age' of Kathmandu. During this period, the valley saw an explosion of art, architecture, and culture. The famed Durbar Squares of Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur were built and the city flourished as a center of trade and religious activity. Intricate wood carvings, stone sculptures, and stunning temples like Kasthamandap and Swayambhunath were created during this era.
In the mid-18th century, King Prithvi Narayan Shah of Gorkha embarked on a mission to unify the small kingdoms scattered across Nepal. In 1768, he successfully captured Kathmandu, making it the capital of the newly unified Nepal. This unification marked the beginning of the modern state of Nepal and established Kathmandu as the political and cultural heart of the country.
The Rana regime, which began in 1846 and lasted until 1951, saw significant changes in Kathmandu. The period was marked by the construction of grand palaces and the introduction of Western architectural styles. Despite the autocratic rule, the Ranas contributed to the modernization of the city by establishing schools, hospitals, and other infrastructure. Landmarks like Singha Durbar and the Kaiser Mahal were built during this time.
The end of the Rana era in 1951 ushered in a new democratic phase for Kathmandu and Nepal. The establishment of a constitutional monarchy brought political reforms and the city began to witness a surge in political activism. Subsequent decades saw various political shifts, including the People's Movement of 1990 which led to the establishment of a multiparty democracy. The monarchy was eventually abolished in 2008, making Nepal a federal democratic republic with Kathmandu as its capital.
Kathmandu is a melting pot of cultures and religions. It is home to a diverse population, including Newars, who are the indigenous inhabitants of the valley, as well as other ethnic groups from across Nepal. The city is also a significant religious center for both Hindus and Buddhists. Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most sacred Hindu temples, and Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world, are located in Kathmandu, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike.
Kathmandu boasts numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, and Boudhanath. However, the devastating earthquake of April 25, 2015, caused significant damage to many of these historical structures. The earthquake not only affected the physical landscape but also left a lasting impact on the city's cultural heritage. Efforts for restoration and rebuilding have been ongoing, reflecting the resilience and spirit of the people of Kathmandu.