Flights from Zurich (ZRH) to Kathmandu (KTM)

About Kathmandu

Discover Kathmandu

Why visit Kathmandu?
Kathmandu is a bustling valley city framed by distant hills, where historic squares, winding lanes, and lively local life sit side by side. You will find a destination that feels intimate yet full of discovery, with hidden courtyards, old neighbourhoods, and a relaxed pace.

What to expect
The city is a mosaic of traditional architecture, colourful streets, and compact districts that invite you to explore on foot. Expect busy main roads balanced by quieter side alleys, rooftop terraces with wide views, and a mix of older quarters and newer residential areas around the valley.

Plan your trip
Kathmandu works well as both a city break and a starting point for exploring wider Nepal. You can spend time in the city and then connect onwards to hill towns, hiking regions, and other parts of the country, making the valley a practical and engaging base for your journey.

Top sights in Kathmandu

Durbar Square

Explore a historic palace complex and surrounding courtyards, lined with intricate traditional architecture and lively open spaces.

Thamel

Stroll through a compact neighbourhood of narrow streets filled with guesthouses, cafés, and shops selling trekking gear and local handicrafts.

Garden of Dreams

Relax in a restored neo-classical garden with lawns, pavilions, and shaded corners that offer a quiet break from the city streets.

Patan city area

Cross to the nearby city of Patan to wander its traditional lanes, central square, and artisan workshops in a more intimate setting.

Asan Bazaar

Visit a bustling local market area where everyday shopping, small temples, and old houses come together in a lively crossroads.

Kirtipur hill town

Take a short trip to this hilltop settlement overlooking the valley, known for narrow streets, old houses, and wide views.

Narayanhiti Palace Museum

Walk through a former royal residence that now serves as a museum, offering a glimpse into the country’s modern history and design.

Kathmandu Valley viewpoints

Head to viewpoints on the valley rim for broad panoramas of the city below and, on clear days, distant mountain ranges.

Experience Kathmandu’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
You can move through Kathmandu by taxi, ride-hailing services, and local buses for longer journeys between districts. Walking is often the most direct way to explore older quarters, while short rides by three-wheeler vehicles help you cover busy stretches. Plan extra time for traffic, especially at peak hours.

Local life & culture
Daily life unfolds on street corners, in small squares, and along main roads where shops and stalls cluster together. You will notice families and friends gathering on balconies and in courtyards, and neighbourhoods where traditional houses stand next to newer buildings. The city’s rhythm is lively but also unhurried in its backstreets.

Where to unwind
To take a break from the city, seek out quiet gardens, hilltop parks, and short walks on the valley edge. Early mornings and late afternoons are pleasant times to enjoy cooler temperatures and gentler light. Many hotels also offer simple spa or massage facilities where you can rest after a day of exploring.

A taste of Kathmandu

Street food & local specialties
In Kathmandu, you can try local snacks and meals at small eateries, tea shops, and roadside stalls. Areas like Thamel, Asan, and Patan are known for simple places serving dumplings, noodle dishes, and hearty plates that are popular with residents and travellers alike.

Casual & modern dining hubs
You will find relaxed restaurants and cafés clustered along key streets in Thamel, Lazimpat, and emerging neighbourhoods around the valley. Menus often mix local favourites with regional and international dishes, and moderate portion sizes make it easy to sample a few items when dining with friends.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable meal, look for rooftop terraces and hotel restaurants with views over the valley or towards surrounding hills. Some venues offer open-air seating and cosy indoor spaces, giving you the chance to enjoy the city lights in the evening while you dine in a more refined setting.

Retail therapy in Kathmandu

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Large shopping centres and lifestyle complexes in areas like Durbar Marg and the city’s newer districts offer a mix of international brands, local labels, cinemas, and family-friendly activities. These spaces provide a convenient place to shop, meet friends, and find dining options under one roof.

Markets & local crafts
For handmade items, textiles, and local craftwork, explore the lanes of Thamel, Asan, and Patan. Here you can browse small workshops, boutiques, and street-side stalls that showcase traditional designs, contemporary pieces, and trekking essentials in a more intimate and characterful setting.

Evening retail scene
As evening falls, central streets and market alleys stay lively with illuminated shopfronts and late-opening stores. Thamel and Durbar Marg in particular keep a friendly buzz after dark, with cafés and restaurants close to the main shopping strips. Local transport and taxis make these areas straightforward to reach and return from.

Best time to visit Kathmandu

Spring season (Basanta)
From March to May, daytime temperatures in Kathmandu are typically around 15–25°C (59–77°F), with warm afternoons and cooler evenings. Skies are often clear, making this a shoulder season popular for valley walks and city sightseeing, with blooming trees adding colour to parks and gardens.

Monsoon season (Barsaa)
From June to September, temperatures usually range between 20–28°C (68–82°F), with higher humidity and regular showers or storms. This low season offers lush green surroundings in the valley and quieter visitor numbers, and you can still enjoy indoor attractions, cafés, and short walks between showers.

Autumn and winter (Sharad and Hemanta)
From October to February, daytime temperatures generally vary from 8–20°C (46–68°F), with cooler nights, especially in December and January. This period is considered peak season for many visitors thanks to crisp air and good visibility, making it a pleasant time for city exploration and short trips around the valley.

Frequently Asked Questions