What to Do in Kathmandu: Top Attractions & Travel Tips

Namaste! Nepal Outdoor Expeditions welcomes you to Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, a thriving hub. Upon arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), the country's only international airport, located near the city center, our guide will greet you and transfer you to your hotel, situated within the Thamel area, via our private vehicle. On this drive, you will already see the first instances of life in this city: colorful streets, active shops, polite, humble, and respectful people, the fluttering prayer flags, those street sellers of momos and sweets, and the outstanding view of the Himalayas.

Beyond being the capital of Nepal, Kathmandu is at the heart of this beautiful country, a living museum of art, traditions, history, and the life of the present-day Kathmandu. This city is busy, and lots of people use it as a stepping stone to the mountains in the Himalayas; however, Kathmandu has much to offer. With its UNESCO World Heritage sites and picturesque winding streets filled with incense and prayer flags, the city is rich with experiences to delight the senses, all of which will be lodged in your heart forever.

This is a comprehensive guide designed to introduce you to both well-known and lesser-known tourist sites. You will enjoy the most notable UNESCO attractions, hidden streets with much local colour, places of pilgrimage and worship, colorful markets, casual cafes, and nightlife. Moreover, it offers sightseeing itineraries, local food highlights, night entertainment, as well as travel hacks which make sure that you do not waste your time in Kathmandu. You won’t leave Kathmandu after your stay, as you will feel it, taste it, and bring the city with you, making your trip memorable.

Overview

Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal (located in the valley of Kathmandu at an altitude of approximately 1,400 meters), is the cultural, political, and economic core of this country. It has a rich Newari cultural heritage and is a living museum that boasts of exquisitely carved wooden architecture and stone temples as well as centuries-old palaces. It has a small format that makes it simple for tourists to navigate through various attractions within a close radius.

Some of the best highlights of Kathmandu are:

UNESCO World Heritage Sites: The Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple.
Secret Treasures: Covered courtyards, shops of craftsmen, small lanes decorated with prayer flags, and cafes on the rooftops with fabulous views are the representation of secret treasures.
Cultural Experiences: Traditional festivals such as Indra Jatra, Holi and Dashain, where rituals, music, and dance are in stream.
Local Life: Activity markets, food stalls on the street, rooftop cafes, and be able to join the daily life in the Kathmandu Valley.

Exploring the Historic Heritage Sites of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Lalitpur

1. Kathmandu Durbar Square

An ancient square and the previously royal palace courtyard are riddled with temples, courtyards, and other age-old structures known as Kathmandu Durbar Square. It is awe-inspiring despite the damage caused by the 2015 earthquake. The key highlights are:

Hanuman Dhoka: Palace is an old royal palace the traces of Old Newar art.
Kumari Ghar (Living Goddesses Residence): Unique opportunity to see the Kumari, who is the living goddess of Kathmandu.
Taleju Temple: The temple with one of the most respected places.

Our experienced local guide will walk you through exploring the historic highlights of (Kathmandu or Kasthamandu) Basantapur Durbar Square, including the Hanuman Dhoka Palace, Kumari Ghar: home of the Living Goddess, the sacred Taleju Temple, and the ancient Kasthamandap, sharing Old stories and historical insights about this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Entrance Fee: NPR 1,000 (about 9$)
Operation Hours: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

2. Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)

Set on a hill, Swayambhunath is situated in such a way that it gives beautiful overlooks of Kathmandu Valley. Monkeys are running around the stupa, prayer wheels are rendering their infinite rotation and the golden spire is shining through the sky. The site promotes peace between Hindus and Buddhists.

Highlights: Panoramic views of the valley, a Buddhist shrine surrounded by prayer wheels, and monkeys.
Entrance Fee: NPR 200(about 2$).
Operation hours: 5 AM to 6 PM. (Morning to get views and fewer crowds.)

3. Boudhanath Stupa

Boudhanath is the second-largest stupa in the entire world. Pilgrims make laps, clockwise and spin prayer wheels, chant mantras. The stupa becomes luminous at sunset when monks are chanting in monasteries and there is a strong sense of spirituality.

Highlights: The Bouddha Stupa is one of the largest in the world. Also, we will visit Tibetan monasteries and rooftop cafes.
Entry charge: NPR 400(about 4$).
Hours of Opening: 24/7 (The grounds around the stupa are always open).
Best Time: Sunset, when locals do a Kora (circumambulation).

4. Pashupatinath Temple

This is a holy Hindu shrine complex in the Bagmati River and dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is where Pilgrims usually converge on rituals, and you will also encounter the traditional Hindu cremations. Other than Hindus are not allowed in the main temple, but are free to tour around the ghats and the shrines therein.

Highlights: Holy Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, and Bagmati cremation ghats, Sadhus (holy men).
Entrance Fee: NPR 1,000 (about 9$).
Operating Hours: 4:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Better to Visit: In the morning (6 AM to 9 AM) during rituals or (6 PM to 9 PM) during Aarati.

5. Patan Durbar Square

Patan, a small drive away, is considered an example of exquisite Newar architecture. During your Patan Durbar Square visit, the must-see places include:

Krishna Mandir: It is a masterpiece of stone architecture.
Patan Museum: This houses Nepalese art and other artefacts.
Golden Temple: A wonderful Buddhist monastery that is beautifully carved.
Entrance Fee: NPR 1,000 (about 9$).
Timings: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

6. Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Bhaktapur is the city of devotees, as it seems to be caught in time.

Highlights: Nyatapola Temple, 55-Window Palace, Dattatreya Square, Pottery Square, where potters and pottery artisans still use clay to make pots.
Entrance Fee: NPR 1,800 ( about 15$).
Timings: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Food to Try: Juju Dhau or King Curd, a local Newari style of yogurt. Many street foods are Available, including rooftop Cafes with 360° View.

If you’re lucky, witness Indra Jatra, Holi, or Bisket Jatra in Bhaktapur, which is the local festival of the Newari people held between March to May.

Famous Hidden Gems in Kathmandu

Many places are even hidden, yet well worth visiting in Kathmandu, despite the UNESCO sites, which are a must-see.

1. Garden of Dreams

The Garden of Dreams is a revamped classical garden in Thamel full of beautiful ponds, peaceful lakes, and pavilions, which is ideal for relaxing after sightseeing. It is a silent, thoughtfully designed ideal place, and has a little coffee shop where one can have a cup of tea or coffee.

Entrance Fee: NPR 400 (about 4$).
Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM

2. Chandragiri Hills Resort

Chandragiri Hills (2,551 m) is just an easy drive away, yet another retreat away into an unrestrained view of the very cool Himalayas and quietude. The cable car journey to the Thankot base takes 10 minutes with a breathtaking view of the lush greenery of hills, the valley, and the snow-capped mountains in the far horizon. Cafes and open spaces, at the top, are provided to give one a place to rest. There is also a temple called the Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple, which has a connection with the history of Nepal.

Chandragiri is rewarded to a visitor with wonderful views of Mount Everest, Annapurna, Ganesh Himal, Langtang, and Gaurishankar on a clear day. It is a nice family entertainment destination that is a combination of adventure, relaxation, and spirituality. It appeals to individuals who are not interested in hiking adventures.

Highlights:

Scenic cable car ride (10minutes).
Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple, which has historic importance.
Spectacular 360° omniscient views that you have of the Himalayas, which include the views of Everest & Annapurna on a clear weather day.
Coffee shops, restaurants, and minor walking paths.
Park-playground friendly to the family.
Entrance Fee: 9 $ for two-way cable car tickets.
Opening Hours: 8 AM to 6 PM

Accommodation Option:

Those people who would like to spend more time there may rent a room in Chandragiri Hills Resort. The 5-star resort offers a round-trip cable car ride to guests who book a room in the resort. The resort has an infinity pool, a heated jacuzzi, and in-room dining options; it is an escape to nature.

4. Kirtipur: A Living Newar Town

Kirtipur is an attractive Newar community town, perched on a hilltop south-west of Kathmandu. It invokes a feeling of going back in time. Roaming around in Petite's old cobbled lanes, marveling at quaint wooden-carved windows of the traditional house dwellings, and peeking into scenic courtyards shrouded in ancient history brings into the picture golden old times. You should not leave untouched the Bagh Bhairab temple devoted to the fierce god in the form of a tiger, or the Chilancho stupa of one of the oldest stupas in the valley. The view of the snow-capped mountains in a clear sky and the marvelous look of Kathmandu Valley is admirable.

Kirtipur is also worth a visit for food lovers. Try local Newari dishes at the many local restaurants, eat chatamari (Nepali pizza) to sapu mhicha (buff tripe with bone marrow), and the Newari thalis combined with home-brewed rice beer. It is best visited in the early morning hours or in the late afternoon, and the town is easily accessible by taxi (20-30 minutes North of Thamel).

5. Monasteries and Meditation Caves in Pharping

Pharping is a religious retreat and spiritual center of Nepal and is about 19 km south of the capital Kathmandu. They are full of Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, meditation caves, and prayer banners. Many people believe that Guru Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) meditated here in the 8th century before propagating Buddhism in Tibet.

Asura Cave and Yangleshho Cave are significant pilgrimage destinations, and the Ralo Gompa and Druk Amitabha Monastery are open to any person to participate in prayers or sit in meditation. Pharping is an ideal refuge for those who want to escape the hectic city of Kathmandu.

Best time: Morning to watch prayers in the monastery.
Entrance Fee: Free (Donations invited).
Transportation: 1 hour- 45 minutes drive from Thamel.

6. Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park

Check out Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park on the northern flank of the valley, which is a protected forest in case you have a hankering for fresh air and trees. Famous among hikers and birdwatchers, it has both easy walks and day-long hikes.

The most well-practiced trail leads to Nagi Gompa Monastery, which is embedded on a mountain crest, offering panoramic views of the valley. It is also possible to trek up to the Shivapuri Peak (2,732m) to get a view of the Himalaya. The forest is also a place of monkeys, deer, and more than 300 species of birds, a place of paradise if nature is what the guest wants.

Opening Hours: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entrance Fee: NPR 1,000 ( about 8$)
Transportation: 30-40 min drive to Budhanilkantha by hiring a taxi or public vehicles.

7. Nagarkot: Sunrise of the Himalayas

Nagarkot (32 km outside Kathmandu) is a type of retreat for those who need to view the Himalayas and not go trekking. It is located at 2,175m, and it is one of the most stunning sunrise views in the mountains, including Everest on a clear day.

The majority of the visitors make overnight stays so as to see the early morning sun rise. There are short hiking trails across the hill station through villages and pine forests.

Best Time: Stay at night, hang out, and wait for the sun to come up at about 5:30 to 6:30 AM.
Entrance Fee: NPR 300 (about 2.50 $).
Transportation: 1.5-2 hours drive journey to Kathmandu by public vehicle or Taxi.

8. Asan Bazaar

A traditional noisy market with spices and brassware, and the lifestyles of Nepalese. A must to feel the heartbeat of the city and visit the lively Asan Bazaar, which is one of Kathmandu’s oldest and busiest marketplaces, famous for its handicrafts, traditional spice stalls, colorful textiles, and mouthwatering local snacks such as sel roti, samosas, and fried lentils. You will enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Ason, which is located near Thamel. The best time to visit is in the morning or late afternoon, when the Ason market is most lively and full of energy.

9. Panauti: An Ancient Newar Town

Panauti lies at the meeting of two rivers in the eastern Kathmandu valley and is an extremely well-preserved Newar city that escaped the ravages of time. There are cobbled streets, churches and temples, and riverside ghats that make this one of the most authentic heritage towns in the valley. The main tourist attraction is the Indreshwar Mahadev Temple, which is one of the oldest pagoda-style temples that have been preserved until today in Nepal, and the calm location presents the town with a spiritual predisposition.

What is even more unique about Panauti is the reputation of community homestays where you can live with local families, enjoy warm hospitality, and have a delicious home cooked Newari meal. This gives one a real experience of the Nepali culture as opposed to sightseeing. Panauti is just a 1.5-hour drive by car or public vehicles.

10. Taudaha Lake

A Tranquil Haven Located Close to the City, located in a small distance bringing you to Kathmandu, Taudaha Lake is a cool, quiet place that is far enough to shake off the dense city life. That makes it a paradise to birdwatchers and photographers, as migratory and resident birds are frequently spotted flying over still waters. The lake is also associated with a local legend of a gigantic serpent Naga, which is believed lived in this lake, giving it some mystic nature.

Having benches and small tea shops along the shore, Taudaha lake is the best and only place where one can relax, take photographs, or spend a quiet time. It is highly visited in the early mornings and evenings as the light of sunset provides a mystical feel to the lake.

Entrance Fee: NPR 30-50 per individual (less than a dollar).

Transportation: Just about a 20 to 30-minute drive off of Thamel via Kirtipur or Chobhar.

Try Local Food in Kathmandu

Foodies' heaven, Kathmandu is a food haven where you can find Nepali, Tibetan, and international cuisines. Spend your morning in Himalayan Java Coffee, which is considered a local shop of good coffee and a warm atmosphere. To taste Nepal, you can try Thakali Khana, a hearty bowl of unlimited rice, lentils, vegetables, meat, and pickles. Steaming momo (dumplings) are sold in the street stands, and sekuwa (meat on a stick) and laphing (spicy Tibetan noodles) present some variation to your food adventure. Whether it is a hidden alleyway restaurant or a rooftop restaurant, no meal in Kathmandu is ordinary.

Nightlife in Kathmandu

Thamel turns into the party centre of the city when night sets in. Whether one wants to chill in pubs with live acoustic sounds or has a lot of energy to dance in a club, there is no wrong mood. You may take cocktails on a rooftop lounge with a view of the Himalaya or have Nepali craft beer in a microbrewery, or party the night away with other travelers and locals. The nightlife in Kathmandu is lively, entertaining, and friendly, the best way to relax after a day. Some of the best clubs and bars for a night chill are: Purple Haze Rock Bar, LOD, 10X KTM, and many more, where you can see live rock and enjoy a friendly atmosphere.

SPA and Massage

At the end of days of sightseeing, trekking or exploring, Kathmandu is the best place to relax. It has a whole variety of spas and wellness centers, Ayurvedic treatments, Thai massages, reflexology, herbal therapy and steam baths, everything you should have to re-energise your body. A majority of the leading positions are within Thamel. Tranquility Spa has been known to be doing full body massages, whereas Seeing Hands Massage boasts of therapists who are the sightless. To cure in the real sense, Ayurveda Health Home and Himalayan Healers utilise natural oils and herbs. Luxury hotels like Hyatt and Dwarika also offer world-class spas in a serene environment.

Final Thoughts

Kathmandu is not a stopover point to trek in the Himalayas, but is a destination in itself. The city has lots to see, such as spending time in the ancient temples, festivals, streets filled with caves, and spiritual awakening. It can be completed in a single day, or it can take up to five days, but what can be left in memories that you could never forget, and what can be understood and appreciated more when it comes to the culture of Nepal.

When you think you have no idea as to what you can do in Kathmandu, you can mention that you just effectively immerse yourself- stroll through the alleys, relish the food, spin the prayer wheels, and just get yourself in the rhythms of the city.

FAQs About Visiting Kathmandu

1. What is the number of days that one requires to explore Kathmandu?

The majority of tourists usually stay in Kathmandu Valley for 3-5 days. A three-day period suffices in the UNESCO highlights of the Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, Pashupatinath, and Patan/Bhaktapur. There is also some time to track down some of the smaller, hidden gems of Kathmandu, such as Kirtipur, Pharping, Shivapuri hikes, as well as a sunrise drive out to Nagarkot.

2. When will be the best time to visit Kathmandu?

Autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) are best. The weather is clear, mild, and wonderful to have sightseeing. The winter is cooler and nonetheless pleasant, and the summer monsoon spell comes with rains and dirty streets as well as some green carpeting.

3. Are entry fees payable to temples and heritage sites?

Yes. There are major UNESCO sites which charge an entrance fee of between NPR 200 to 1800 (USD 2$ to 15$). To take an example, Boudhanath charges NPR 400, Pashupatinath charges NPR 1,000, Patan Durbar Square charges NPR 1,000, and Bhaktapur charges NPR 1,800. Take notes in small change of the rupees to buy the entry tickets.

4. How do you move around or visit places in Kathmandu?

In the case of short distances, you can easily walk or use taxis, which will be cheap when you negotiate or through one of the ridesharing apps, like Pathao and Indrive are available. On day trips, you can hire a private car using those apps with a driver is most convenient. Public transportation in the form of buses is also available.

5. Which are the best hotels in Kathmandu?

Thamel is one of the main tourist area and most of the tourists prefer to stay there, which is the vibrant center with hotels, shops, and cafes. To have less noise gets you Patan (in terms of history/culture) or Boudhanath (more spiritual sphere/near the monasteries). Upper-scale accommodation is available in Dwarika Hotel and in Chandragiri Hills Resort.

6. What are some of the local Kathmandu foods?

Must‑try: momo (dumplings), Newari dishes such as chatamari, bara, and sapu mhicha, and Dal Bhat, the Nepali staple of rice and lentils. Street snacks, sel roti, samosas, and sweet lassi are also popular. For genuine Newari flavors, visit eateries in Kirtipur, Bhaktapur, or the Patan area.

7. Can I enter the Pashupatinath Temple as a non-Hindu?

Non-Hindus are allowed to stroll in the temple grounds, view ceremonies along the river Bagmati ghats, and take part in evening aarati celebrations. The cultural and spiritual ambience is extremely touching even outside.

8. Is Kathmandu a safe tourist place?

Yes, the city is mostly safe. Be careful of your belongings in busy bazaars and during festivals (Jatra) and ceremonies.

9. What is the price of a ride in the Chandragiri Hills cable car?

The round-trip fare is approximately NPR 800 for locals and NPR 1,600 (about $12 to 15 USD) for foreigners. The 10‑minute journey offers panoramic valley and Himalayan views. The cable car fee is included in the packages for staying if you book at Chandragiri Hills Resort.

10. How do you get the best view Himalayas in Kathmandu?

Nagarkot is also a good location to watch the sun rise, and the Chandragiri cable car also provides the same. Both sites provide you with panoramic Himalayan views, and you can even see Everest on clear days. In case you like hiking, even a short walk in Shivapuri National Park will offer excellent views.

11. Is it possible to visit local culture without hiking?

Yes, you do not have to go far to immerse yourself in local culture. Go to festivals like Indra-Jatra or Holi, visit markets like Asan Bazaar, take a Newari cooking course, or be a guest in a community homestay in Panauti. These activities will allow you to explore the culture of Kathmandu without a long walk.

12. What is the route to Bhaktapur and Patan in Kathmandu?

Both cities are within a close drive of Kathmandu. Patan is only 20 minutes away, and Bhaktapur is approximately 45 minutes away, Thamel. You may take taxis, personal cars, or local buses. A lot of tourists visit the two cities in one day.

13. Will I require a guide to tour Kathmandu?

Most of the places you can tour on your own, although a local guide can help you have a better time. A guide offers a cultural, historical, and spiritual overview of places that you would not have experienced otherwise, particularly in UNESCO World Heritage sites and obscure monasteries.

14. Which festivals are worth visiting in Kathmandu?

Some of the major festivals are:

Dashain (Oct): the largest Hindu festival.
Tihar (Nov): festival of lights.
Indra Jatra (Sept): with the Living Goddess (Kumari).
Holi (March): festival of colors.

These celebrations come with rare rituals, processions, and street abundance.

15. What are the popular shopping destinations in Kathmandu?

For shopping, Thamel provides handicrafts, hiking equipment, and souvenirs. Asan Bazaar and the New Road area are must visit places for cloth, and a historic utensils shop. To get good-quality pashmina, silver jewellery, and wooden carvings, go to fair-trade stores or local crafts markets.

16. How much should I budget per day in Kathmandu?

On average, you can expect:

Budget travelers: $20 to 30 (guesthouse, street food, local buses).
Mid‑range: $40 to 80 (nice hotel, local restaurants, taxis).
Luxury: $150 or more (resorts, fine dining, private transport).

Tourist sites will increase a visitor by approximately $1020 a day.

17. Are there SIM cards and WIFI available?

Yes. Almost all of the hotels, cafes and restaurants provide free Wi-Fi. Local SIMs of the Ncell or Nepal Telecom are cheap, and data packages cost relatively few dollars. There is good mobile connectivity all over the valley.