Flights from Kathmandu (KTM) to Shanghai (PVG)

About Shanghai

Shanghai, where tradition meets modern skylines

Shanghai is a city of striking contrasts, where historic riverside promenades sit beside some of the tallest towers in the world. As China’s leading commercial hub, it combines a fast-paced, international outlook with distinct neighbourhoods that each have their own character and charm.

Along the Huangpu River, you can wander past grand waterfront architecture, then cross to Pudong to experience sleek shopping malls and contemporary art spaces. Away from the skyscrapers, you will find leafy streets, restored shikumen lanes, and pockets of old Shanghai that reveal the city’s story through their markets, tea houses, and local eateries.

Top sights in Shanghai

The Bund

Stroll along this famous riverside promenade for views of historic waterfront buildings facing the futuristic skyline of Pudong.

Oriental Pearl Tower

Ride up this landmark tower in Pudong for sweeping views over Shanghai and its winding river from glass-floored observation decks.

Yu Garden

Explore classical pavilions, ponds, and carved rockeries in this beautifully landscaped garden tucked behind busy streets.

Nanjing Road

Walk one of Shanghai’s best-known shopping streets, lined with boutiques, department stores, and bright evening lights.

Tianzifang

Lose yourself in narrow alleyways filled with small galleries, design shops, and cosy cafes set in traditional lane houses.

Experience Shanghai’s culture and city life

Start your visit by exploring the city on foot along the Huangpu River, where you can take in the contrast between the Bund’s historic facades and the glass towers of Pudong. A river cruise offers a different perspective, especially in the evening when the skyline is illuminated and reflections dance on the water.

For a closer look at local life, wander through former French Concession streets shaded by plane trees, where you will find independent boutiques, small museums, and relaxed cafes. In the old town around Yu Garden, traditional shops, snack stalls, and narrow lanes provide a sense of how Shanghai once looked, while modern galleries and performance spaces showcase the city’s creative side.

Families and visitors looking for green spaces can spend time in parks such as Century Park in Pudong or Fuxing Park in Puxi, where locals gather for leisurely walks, exercise, and social activities. Day trips to nearby water towns, with their stone bridges and canals, offer a quieter contrast to the city’s energy.

A taste of Shanghai

Shanghai’s food scene ranges from street-side stalls to refined restaurants, giving you many ways to discover local flavours. Classic specialities include soup-filled dumplings, richly braised dishes, and seafood prepared with light, delicate seasoning that lets fresh ingredients stand out.

You can start your day with breakfast treats from neighbourhood vendors, then sample snacks and regional cuisine in busy food streets and modern food halls. In the evenings, riverside restaurants and rooftop venues combine views of the skyline with menus that blend local and international influences.

International dining is also easy to find, with a wide choice of global cuisines across the city’s business districts and lifestyle hubs. From casual eateries in converted lane houses to elegant fine-dining addresses, Shanghai invites you to explore at your own pace and discover a style of dining that suits every occasion.

Retail therapy in Shanghai

Shanghai is one of China’s most exciting shopping destinations, offering everything from flagship international brands to independent designers. Nanjing Road and Huaihai Road are lined with large stores and malls where you can find fashion, electronics, and lifestyle goods in a bright, energetic setting.

For something more intimate, head to areas such as Tianzifang or Xintiandi, where smaller boutiques and studios showcase local designers, handicrafts, and homeware. These neighbourhoods are ideal for picking up distinctive souvenirs and enjoying a relaxed shopping experience combined with cafes and galleries.

If you prefer modern retail complexes, Pudong’s financial district has expansive malls connected to offices and hotels, making it easy to shop between meetings or sightseeing. Wherever you go, you will find a mix of traditional items and contemporary designs that reflect Shanghai’s blend of history and innovation.

Best time to visit Shanghai

Spring in Shanghai (March to May, shoulder season) brings mild, comfortable weather, with average temperatures around 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). Blossoming trees in parks and along streets make it a pleasant time for riverside walks and outdoor sightseeing across the city.

Summer (June to September, peak season) is warm and humid, with typical temperatures between 25°C and 32°C (77°F to 90°F). Longer daylight hours allow you to enjoy evening river cruises, rooftop views of the skyline, and air-conditioned museums and shopping malls when you want a break from the heat.

Autumn and winter (October to February, low season) see cooler, crisp days, with averages from 5°C to 16°C (41°F to 61°F). Clearer skies often bring good visibility for city views, and quieter attractions mean you can explore museums, galleries, and historic streets at a more relaxed pace.

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