Flights from San Francisco (SFO) to Kathmandu (KTM)

About Kathmandu

Discover Kathmandu

Why visit Kathmandu?
Kathmandu is a vibrant Himalayan city where winding lanes, historic squares, and mountain views come together to create a memorable first taste of Nepal. You will find a mix of traditional architecture, lively neighbourhoods, and access to world-famous trekking routes.

What to expect
The city centres around its historic districts, with old courtyards, narrow streets, and bustling local life. Thamel is a busy hub for visitors, while areas like Patan and Bhaktapur offer well-preserved heritage, crafts, and quieter corners just a short drive from central Kathmandu.

Plan your trip
Kathmandu is your natural starting point for exploring Nepal, from short valley hikes to longer journeys into the Himalayas. With a growing range of hotels, cafés, and services for travellers, it works well as both a base and a gateway to nearby towns and mountain regions.

Top sights in Kathmandu

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Stroll through this historic square to admire old royal courtyards, intricate wood-carved buildings, and everyday local life.

Patan Durbar Square

Explore Patan’s beautifully preserved palace complex, museums, and traditional houses just south of central Kathmandu.

Bhaktapur Old Town

Take a day trip to Bhaktapur to wander cobbled lanes, brick courtyards, and artisan workshops in a compact, walkable town.

Swayambhunath Hill

Climb up to this hilltop complex for wide views over the Kathmandu Valley, especially atmospheric around sunset on clear days.

Garden of Dreams

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

Ason and Indra Chowk

Walk through these traditional market streets to see stalls selling produce, spices, and everyday goods in a lively setting.

Nagarkot Viewpoint

Head to Nagarkot in the nearby hills for cool air and sunrise or sunset views of distant Himalayan peaks in good weather.

Experience Kathmandu’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Taxis and ride-hailing services are the most convenient way to move between districts in Kathmandu, especially for first-time visitors. For shorter distances, walking through the compact old city streets is rewarding, while hotel car services are useful for early departures or late arrivals.

Local life & culture
Daily life in Kathmandu plays out in courtyards, teahouses, and small corner shops where neighbours gather to chat. You will notice a strong tradition of craftsmanship, from metalwork to woodcarving, and a lively café culture emerging in areas popular with younger locals and visitors.

Where to unwind
When you need a pause from the busy streets, head to green pockets such as the Garden of Dreams or the tree-lined lanes of the embassy districts. In the wider valley, short drives bring you to hilltop viewpoints and village walks, best enjoyed in the early morning or late afternoon.

A taste of Kathmandu

Street food & local specialties
Around Thamel, Ason, and other central neighbourhoods, you can try popular local dishes such as momos, steamed snacks, and hearty soups in small eateries. Local cafés often serve simple comfort food and hot drinks that are welcome after a day exploring the valley.

Casual & modern dining hubs
In and around Thamel and Lazimpat, you will find casual restaurants, rooftop cafés, and international options that make it easy to mix familiar flavours with Nepali favourites. Menus often feature smaller plates and shared dishes, so you can sample a variety of tastes in one relaxed meal.

Signature & scenic dining
Kathmandu offers a growing number of rooftop terraces and upper-floor restaurants with city or valley views, particularly around central districts and nearby hill towns. These settings are ideal for a slow dinner, where you can watch the lights of the city after sunset and reflect on your day.

Retail therapy in Kathmandu

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Modern shopping centres and mixed-use complexes are scattered around the city, offering international brands, local labels, cinemas, and cafés under one roof. These are convenient places to pick up everyday travel items, outdoor gear, or a quick meal between sightseeing stops.

Markets & local crafts
Traditional streets such as Ason and Indra Chowk, along with Bhaktapur and Patan, are known for metalwork, textiles, and handmade crafts. Smaller boutiques in Thamel and nearby districts showcase local designers, from jewellery to homeware, that make meaningful souvenirs.

Evening retail scene
After dark, central Kathmandu stays lively with shops, cafés, and small stalls remaining open into the evening, especially around Thamel and main road junctions. It is easy to explore on foot or by short taxi rides, with many popular streets located close to main hotel areas.

Best time to visit Kathmandu

Spring season (Chaitra to Jestha, March to May, shoulder season)
Spring in Kathmandu is generally mild and clear, with average temperatures around 18–25°C (64–77°F). The days are warm enough for city walks and nearby hikes, while cooler evenings keep conditions comfortable. It is a pleasant time for sightseeing and valley excursions.

Monsoon season (Asar to Bhadra, June to September, low season)
During the monsoon, temperatures range from about 20–28°C (68–82°F), with regular afternoon or evening showers. The rain brings fresher air and greener hillsides, and mornings can be bright and calm. With fewer visitors, you can often explore the city at a gentler pace.

Autumn and winter season (Asoj to Falgun, October to February, peak season)
Autumn and winter bring cooler, generally drier weather, with temperatures around 8–22°C (46–72°F) depending on the month. Many travellers appreciate the clearer skies for valley views and walking tours. With a light jacket and layered clothing, it is an inviting time to experience Kathmandu’s outdoor highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions