Kathmandu is a vibrant valley city framed by Himalayan foothills, where historic squares, carved temples, and atmospheric alleys sit beside modern cafés and mountain outfitters. You feel both ancient heritage and the energy of a gateway city.
Discover Kathmandu
Discover Kathmandu
Why visit Kathmandu?
What to expect
You can wander lively neighbourhoods like Thamel and Patan, where shrines, courtyards, and artisan workshops sit close to trekking shops and rooftop terraces. Expect busy streets, rich culture, and rewarding views on clear days.
Plan your trip
Use Kathmandu as your base for exploring nearby heritage towns, short hikes with panoramic views, or onward journeys deeper into Nepal. Allow time to adjust to the altitude, explore the valley, and arrange any permits for mountain trips.
Top sights in Kathmandu
Kathmandu Durbar Square
Stroll through this historic square to see palaces, statues, and intricately carved wooden buildings that showcase the citys royal past.
Swayambhu (Monkey Temple)
Climb the steps to this hilltop complex for sweeping views of the Kathmandu Valley and a close look at one of its most recognisable stupas.
Boudhanath Stupa
Walk the circular path around this vast white stupa, lined with prayer wheels, rooftop cafés, and small shops selling local crafts.
Patan (Lalitpur) Durbar Square
Cross the river to Patan to explore a quieter square with red-brick plazas, gilded roofs, and traditional Newar architecture.
Garden of Dreams
Step into this restored neo-classical garden near Thamel to relax by ponds, pavilions, and manicured lawns amid the citys bustle.
Bhaktapur Old Town
Take a short trip east to wander car-free streets, courtyards, and temples in one of the best-preserved heritage cities in the valley.
Nagarkot viewpoints
Head to nearby hill stations such as Nagarkot for sunrise or sunset views over terraced hillsides and, on clear days, distant Himalayan peaks.
Experience Kathmandus everyday rhythm
Getting around
Use taxis or ride-hailing services to move between main neighbourhoods, and walk within areas like Thamel, Boudha, and Patan to appreciate side streets. For day trips, arrange a private car or local tour, and keep small cash ready for short hops.
Local life & culture
Watch daily life unfold in temple squares, where locals gather to chat, trade, and make offerings, and observe artisans working wood, metal, and textiles in traditional courtyards. Evenings bring a relaxed pace to rooftop terraces and small neighbourhood cafés.
Where to unwind
Find calm in the Garden of Dreams or in shaded courtyards around Patan, ideal in the late afternoon when the light softens. For fresher air and wide views, head to nearby hills or short walking trails on the valley rim in the early morning.
A taste of Kathmandu
Street food & local specialties
Try favourites such as momos and warming noodle soups in Thamel, Patan, and around Boudha, where small eateries and stalls serve quick, flavourful plates popular with locals.
Casual & modern dining hubs
Explore relaxed cafés and bistros tucked into courtyards and side streets, offering local and international menus that make it easy to sample several smaller dishes with friends.
Signature & scenic dining
Choose rooftop restaurants in Thamel, Patan, or Bhaktapur for city and valley views, or book venues overlooking historic squares for memorable meals with a backdrop of temples and old brick façades.
Retail therapy in Kathmandu
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Browse modern shopping centres and mixed-use complexes for international brands, outdoor gear, and local labels, often paired with cinemas and cafés that turn them into social meeting spots.
Markets & local crafts
Head to Thamel, Patan, and Bhaktapur for handmade textiles, metalwork, pottery, and paintings, where small shops and workshops line narrow streets and historic courtyards.
Evening retail scene
In the evening, streets in Thamel and other central areas light up with open-front shops and stalls selling souvenirs and everyday goods, all easily reached by short taxi rides from most parts of the city.
Best time to visit Kathmandu
Peak season runs from October to November, with clear skies and comfortable days around 15–22°C (59–72°F), ideal for sightseeing and trekking. Shoulder season from March to May brings warmer temperatures of about 18–28°C (64–82°F) and colourful blossoms, though haze can reduce distant views. Low season from June to September is the monsoon period, with frequent rain and temperatures around 20–26°C (68–79°F), when trails and city streets can be wet but the surrounding hills turn a vivid green.