Flights from Surabaya (SUB) to Kathmandu (KTM)

About Kathmandu

Discover Kathmandu

Why visit Kathmandu?
Kathmandu is a gateway to the Himalayas, where winding alleys, historic squares, and mountain views come together in a lively urban valley. You will find a city that blends centuries-old architecture with colourful neighbourhoods and a welcoming atmosphere.

What to expect
The city is centred around historic districts such as Durbar Square, Thamel, and Patan, each with its own character, from traditional courtyards to busy shopping streets. Expect bustling traffic, compact streets, and sudden openings onto wide squares and viewpoints over the surrounding hills.

Plan your trip
Kathmandu works well as both a short city break and a starting point for longer adventures across Nepal. From here, you can connect to trekking regions, scenic hill towns, and other cities in the valley, making the capital an ideal base for exploring the wider country.

Top sights in Kathmandu

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Explore this historic royal square, lined with intricate palaces and traditional architecture, at the heart of the old city.

Thamel

Stroll through Thamel's narrow lanes filled with shops, cafés, and guesthouses, and feel the lively pulse of modern Kathmandu.

Swayambhunath

Climb the hillside steps to Swayambhunath for sweeping views of the Kathmandu Valley and a striking hilltop complex.

Patan (Lalitpur)

Visit nearby Patan to admire its elegant Durbar Square, museums, and traditional workshops tucked into quiet courtyards.

Garden of Dreams

Relax in this restored neo-classical garden near Thamel, a calm escape with lawns, ponds, and shaded seating areas.

Bhaktapur

Take a short trip to Bhaktapur, a well-preserved historic town known for its brick lanes, courtyards, and artisan culture.

Nagarkot viewpoint

Head to Nagarkot in the hills above the valley for sunrise or sunset views of Himalayan peaks on clear days.

Experience Kathmandu's everyday rhythm

Getting around
Taxis and ride services are a practical way to move between key areas like Thamel, Durbar Square, and Patan. For a different view of the city, take a slow walk through side streets and local neighbourhoods. Many central sights are close together, so you can often explore the last stretch on foot.

Local life & culture
Life in Kathmandu spills onto the streets, from morning markets to evening gatherings in small squares and courtyards. Residential neighbourhoods often centre around a local square where people meet, talk, and shop. As you explore, you will notice traditional brick houses sitting alongside modern buildings and small workshops.

Where to unwind
When you need a break from the busy streets, head to quiet gardens, hilltop viewpoints, or riverside walks on the edge of the city. Early mornings and late afternoons are the most pleasant times to be outdoors, with softer light over the valley. Many cafés and guesthouses also offer rooftop terraces where you can pause and take in the skyline.

A taste of Kathmandu

Street food & local specialties
Kathmandu offers comforting local dishes such as dumplings, noodle soups, and spiced snacks served in simple eateries and corner stalls. Neighbourhoods around Thamel, Ason, and the older quarters are good places to try everyday favourites enjoyed by locals.

Casual & modern dining hubs
You will find many relaxed cafés and restaurants throughout Thamel and the wider city, serving both regional and international flavours. Menus often feature smaller plates and sharing dishes, making it easy to try a variety of tastes in a single meal.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable evening, choose a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city streets or valley, especially around Thamel and central Kathmandu. In the surrounding hills, some hotels and lodges offer scenic dining with views towards the mountains, creating a special setting after a day of sightseeing.

Retail therapy in Kathmandu

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Modern shopping centres in Kathmandu combine international brands, local retailers, and entertainment, giving you a convenient place to spend a few hours. These malls often include cinemas, cafés, and family-friendly facilities, making them easy meeting spots whatever the weather.

Markets & local crafts
Smaller market streets and shops across Thamel, Ason, and Patan offer textiles, handicrafts, artwork, and trekking gear. These areas are ideal for browsing at a slower pace, discovering handmade items, and talking directly with local makers in their workshops.

Evening retail scene
In the evening, busy streets in Thamel and central Kathmandu stay lively with illuminated shopfronts and open cafés. You can wander, browse, and stop for a drink as the city cools down. Local public transport and taxis make it straightforward to return to your hotel after an unhurried night-time stroll.

Best time to visit Kathmandu

Spring season (Chaitra to Jestha; March to May, shoulder season)
Spring in Kathmandu is pleasantly warm, with daytime temperatures around 20–28°C (68–82°F). The hills turn lush and clear mornings are common, making it a popular time for city walks and nearby hikes.

Monsoon season (Asar to Bhadra; June to September, low season)
During the monsoon, temperatures hover around 22–29°C (72–84°F), with frequent showers and dramatic clouds over the valley. It is a quieter time to visit, with rich greenery and a calmer pace at many city sights.

Autumn and winter season (Ashwin to Falgun; October to February, peak season)
Autumn brings clear skies and cool, comfortable days of about 10–24°C (50–75°F), ideal for views of the surrounding hills. Winter nights can be chilly, but crisp mornings and bright sunlight create pleasant conditions for exploring the city.

Frequently Asked Questions