Flights from Beijing (BJS) to Kathmandu (KTM)

About Kathmandu

Discover Kathmandu, gateway to the Himalayas

Kathmandu is a city where ancient streets, lively neighbourhoods, and distant mountain peaks come together in one compact valley. Narrow alleys open into bustling squares lined with carved wooden facades, while rooftop terraces frame wide views of the surrounding hills. At every turn, you find a blend of heritage, craft, and everyday life.

As the capital of Nepal, Kathmandu is also the starting point for journeys deeper into the Himalayas. Travellers come for trekking, culture, or simply to experience the atmosphere of a city that has welcomed explorers for decades. Whether you stay within the valley or head towards the high mountains, Kathmandu offers a memorable first impression.

Top sights in Kathmandu

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Stroll through this historic square to admire palaces, courtyards, and traditional Newari architecture at the heart of the old city.

Swayambhunath Stupa

Climb the hillside steps for panoramic views over the valley and a close look at intricate carvings and prayer wheels.

Thamel

Explore this lively district filled with guesthouses, cafés, gear shops, and handicraft stores, ideal as your traveller base.

Patan (Lalitpur)

Cross the river to discover Patan’s beautifully preserved square, artisan workshops, and quiet backstreets with traditional homes.

Bhaktapur

Take a day trip to this well-kept heritage town, known for its brick alleys, ornate squares, and pottery traditions.

Experience Kathmandu up close

Kathmandu offers many ways to experience the valley beyond simply passing through. Join a guided walk through the old city lanes to learn how traditional Newari homes, carved windows, and small courtyards shape daily life. You can also take half-day tours to nearby towns, where artisans still practise woodcarving, metalwork, and pottery.

Outdoor enthusiasts use Kathmandu as a base for trekking and short hikes. From the city, you can arrange day walks on the valley rim for views of distant peaks, or plan multi-day treks further afield. Scenic flights towards the higher Himalayas are also available in clear seasons, giving you a striking perspective of snow-covered ridges without extended hiking.

For a slower pace, consider joining a cooking class, photography walk, or handicraft workshop. These experiences help you understand how food, design, and craft traditions continue to evolve in modern Kathmandu while staying rooted in the valley’s long history.

A taste of Kathmandu

The food scene in Kathmandu ranges from small family-run eateries to contemporary cafés and restaurants. You will find hearty rice and lentil combinations, flavourful vegetable dishes, and comforting soups that suit the valley’s cooler evenings. Street-side stalls and modest canteens offer quick snacks perfect between sightseeing stops.

International influences are strong too, especially around Thamel and the newer neighbourhoods. Here, bakeries, coffee shops, and restaurants serve everything from noodles and dumplings to pizzas and salads. Rooftop venues are popular, offering simple yet satisfying meals with wide views of the city rooftops and hills.

Tea houses and cafés are part of the city’s rhythm, giving you a place to pause and plan your next day. Many combine local ingredients with global recipes, and some support social enterprises or community projects, making your meal or drink feel even more meaningful.

Retail therapy in the Kathmandu Valley

Shopping in Kathmandu is about exploring small lanes and local markets as much as visiting modern stores. Around Thamel and the old city, you will find shops selling trekking gear, casual clothing, maps, and travel essentials, making it easy to prepare for journeys into the mountains. Many outlets stock both international brands and locally produced items.

For something more distinctive, look for workshops and boutiques that showcase handmade textiles, metal crafts, and wooden carvings. Art galleries and cooperatives often sell paintings, prints, and design objects that reflect life in the valley. Browsing these spaces can be as enjoyable as the purchase itself, as owners are usually happy to share the story behind each piece.

Larger streets and emerging districts feature malls and department-style stores with a broader selection of fashion, accessories, and homeware. Whether you are picking up trekking essentials or a compact keepsake for home, the city offers plenty of opportunities to find something memorable.

Best time to visit Kathmandu

Spring season (March to May, shoulder season) brings mild temperatures of around 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Clear mornings, blooming flowers, and comfortable evenings make it ideal for sightseeing and short hikes, while the city’s streets feel lively without being overly busy.

Monsoon season (June to September, low season) sees warmer temperatures, typically 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F), with regular rain showers. The air feels fresh after rainfall, the valley turns lush and green, and indoor attractions, cafés, and markets provide plenty of enjoyable options on wetter days.

Autumn and winter season (October to February, peak season) offer cooler, crisp days with averages from about 5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F). Skies are often clearer, giving better views of surrounding hills and distant peaks, and the atmosphere in the city is vibrant, with many visitors using this time for treks and cultural exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions