Flights from Shanghai (PVG) to Kathmandu (KTM)

About Kathmandu

Kathmandu, gateway to the Himalayas

Kathmandu blends historic charm with the energy of a modern Asian city. Narrow lanes filled with traditional houses open onto lively squares, while the distant outline of Himalayan peaks reminds you how close you are to some of the world’s most dramatic landscapes.

You will find a city of artisans, markets, and courtyards, where everyday life takes place against backdrops of carved wood, brick façades, and busy cafés. From quiet hillside viewpoints to bustling neighbourhoods, Kathmandu offers a memorable introduction to Nepal’s culture and mountain spirit.

Whether you are planning a trekking adventure, a cultural journey, or a short city stay, Kathmandu makes an inviting base. Its mix of heritage sites, local eateries, and friendly neighbourhoods gives you many ways to explore at your own pace.

Top sights in Kathmandu

Durbar Square

Explore this historic royal square, surrounded by traditional architecture, courtyards, and small museums that tell the story of Kathmandu’s past.

Thamel District

Stroll through Thamel’s lively streets, packed with cafés, trekking shops, and handicraft stores, ideal for an evening walk or souvenir shopping.

Swayambhunath Hill

Climb up to this hilltop complex for sweeping views over the Kathmandu Valley and a peaceful escape from the busy streets below.

Garden of Dreams

Relax in this restored neo-classical garden, a calm green space with fountains and pavilions just a short walk from central Kathmandu.

Patan City

Take a short trip to nearby Patan to wander among beautifully preserved squares, artisan workshops, and traditional brick lanes.

Experience the character of Kathmandu

Kathmandu is an excellent starting point for outdoor adventures. Many travellers use the city to prepare for treks in the surrounding hills and further into the Himalayas, arranging guides, gear, and permits before heading out. Even without a long trek, you can join half-day hikes around the valley rim for fresh air and valley views.

Within the city, guided walking tours introduce you to hidden courtyards, local markets, and traditional crafts. You can watch artisans working with metal, wood, and textiles, and learn how these skills shape Kathmandu’s streetscapes. Photography tours are also popular, helping you capture early-morning light, colourful neighbourhoods, and panoramic viewpoints.

For a different perspective, many visitors book a scenic mountain flight from Kathmandu, offering close-up views of snow-covered peaks on a clear day. After time in the air or on the trail, you can unwind with a spa treatment or yoga class in the city, giving your trip a restful balance.

A taste of Kathmandu

Kathmandu’s food scene combines local flavours with influences from across the region. You will find simple eateries serving steaming bowls of noodle soup, momos, and rice-based dishes alongside contemporary cafés offering lighter meals, coffee, and baked goods. Many restaurants have rooftop terraces, giving you views over the city as you dine.

Around Thamel and neighbouring districts, menus cater to a broad mix of tastes, with both traditional and international options. This makes it easy to enjoy familiar comfort food one day and try something new the next. Street-side stalls and small shops offer snacks, sweets, and warm drinks that are perfect between sightseeing stops.

In the evenings, relaxed restaurants and bars create a sociable atmosphere without feeling rushed. Some venues feature live acoustic music, while others focus on quiet corners and soft lighting. It is a city where you can enjoy everything from homely family-run kitchens to modern dining rooms in restored buildings.

Retail therapy in Kathmandu

Shopping in Kathmandu ranges from compact local shops to multi-storey stores specialising in trekking gear. Around Thamel, you can browse for warm clothing, backpacks, and accessories, whether you are preparing for a short hike or a longer journey into the mountains. Many outlets also stock everyday travel essentials.

If you are looking for keepsakes, the city’s handicraft shops offer items such as handwoven textiles, metalwork pieces, and decorative homeware. These make thoughtful gifts and reminders of your time in Nepal. Visiting different workshops lets you see how designs and techniques vary between neighbourhoods.

For a more contemporary experience, newer shopping centres around the city house branded clothing, lifestyle products, and cafés. These air-conditioned spaces provide a comfortable break from the busy streets outside, and are convenient places to pick up final items before your flight home.

Best time to visit Kathmandu

Spring (March to May, shoulder season) brings mild, pleasant weather, with average daytime temperatures around 18–25°C (64–77°F). Clearer skies and blooming flowers make this a popular time for city sightseeing and valley walks, with comfortable conditions for outdoor cafés and rooftop terraces.

Summer and monsoon (June to September, low season) are warmer and more humid, with temperatures typically 20–28°C (68–82°F). Showers are frequent, but you will enjoy a greener valley, quieter sightseeing spots, and atmospheric views when the clouds part, especially from hillside viewpoints around the city.

Autumn and winter (October to February, peak season) offer cooler, drier conditions, with average daytime temperatures of 10–20°C (50–68°F). Skies are often at their clearest, which is attractive for mountain views and trekking departures, while sunny afternoons in the city remain comfortable for walking tours and open-air markets.

Frequently asked questions