Flights from Vietnam to Kathmandu (KTM)

Discover Kathmandu

Discover Kathmandu

Why visit Kathmandu?
Kathmandu blends Himalayan mountain views with a lively valley city, where ornate squares, winding alleys, and historic courtyards sit beside colourful shops and cafés.

What to expect
You can wander between heritage areas like Durbar Square, Thamel, and Patan, where carved temples, brick houses, and hidden shrines frame everyday city life.

Plan your trip
Kathmandu works as both a short cultural break and the starting point for treks across Nepal, with easy links to nearby towns and adventure hubs in the surrounding valleys.

Top sights in Kathmandu

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Explore this historic royal square filled with traditional architecture, old palaces, and temples that showcase the citys rich craftsmanship.

Swayambhunath Stupa

Climb the hillside to this iconic stupa for sweeping views over the Kathmandu Valley and a peaceful escape from the busy streets below.

Boudhanath Stupa

Walk the wide circular path around one of the largest stupas in the region, surrounded by small shops, rooftop cafés, and monastic houses.

Patan (Lalitpur) and Patan Durbar Square

Visit the nearby city of Patan to admire its intricate courtyards, museums, and traditional metal and wood workshops.

Thamel district

Stroll through Thamel to find trekking gear, handicrafts, music shops, and a mix of cosy cafés and rooftop venues.

Garden of Dreams

Relax in this restored neoclassical garden with ponds and shaded corners, a calm retreat just steps from central Kathmandu.

Chandragiri Hills

Take a scenic cable car ride up Chandragiri Hills for fresh mountain air and panoramic views towards the distant Himalayan range.

Experience Kathmandus everyday rhythm

Getting around
Taxis and ride services are the most flexible way to move between neighbourhoods, while local buses and microbuses link the wider valley. For shorter distances, walking lets you discover side streets, with rickshaws sometimes available around older market areas.

Local life & culture
You will see daily life unfold in courtyards, roadside tea stalls, and small workshops, where artisans work with metal, wood, and textiles. Different neighbourhoods have their own character, from historic quarters to lively commercial streets and quieter residential lanes.

Where to unwind
Parks, hill viewpoints, and hidden gardens offer calm spaces to pause after sightseeing, especially in the cooler mornings and late afternoons. Short trips to nearby hills and valleys provide a quick change of pace, with fresh air and gentler walking routes.

A taste of Kathmandu

Street food & local specialties
You can try comforting local dishes such as momos, noodle soups, and spiced snacks in small eateries and roadside stalls across the city. Neighbourhoods around Thamel and New Road are especially convenient for sampling simple, flavourful meals.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Cafés and casual restaurants cluster in central districts, often tucked into courtyards or along narrow lanes, serving both local and international options. Menus usually offer sharing plates and smaller portions, so you can sample different tastes in one sitting.

Signature & scenic dining
Rooftop venues in areas like Thamel and around key landmarks give you city views to accompany your meal, particularly striking at sunset. Some hotels and restored heritage buildings create memorable settings for a relaxed, lingering dinner.

Retail therapy in Kathmandu

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Modern shopping centres around the city offer international brands, local labels, and convenient food courts under one roof. These spaces often double as social hubs, with cinemas and family-friendly facilities alongside everyday services.

Markets & local crafts
Traditional markets and craft-focused streets are ideal for browsing textiles, metalwork, and handmade items, especially around Asan, Thamel, and Patan. You can find everything from trekking essentials to decorative pieces reflecting local design.

Evening retail scene
As evening falls, busy streets and market areas remain lively, with lit-up shopfronts and late-opening stores in central districts. Public transport, taxis, and ride services make it straightforward to return to your hotel after an unhurried night of browsing.

Best time to visit Kathmandu

Peak season: October to November, with clear skies, mild days around 20°C to 22°C (68°F to 72°F), and comfortable nights that are cooler but generally pleasant.
Shoulder season: March to May, when temperatures rise to about 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F), with warm afternoons, blooming landscapes, and occasional haze.
Low season: June to September, during the monsoon, with temperatures around 23°C to 29°C (73°F to 84°F) and higher humidity, plus more frequent rain showers.

Frequently Asked Questions