Flights from Beijing (BJS) to Kathmandu (KTM)

About Kathmandu

Discover Kathmandu

Why visit Kathmandu?
Kathmandu is a valley city ringed by hills, known for its atmospheric old quarters, intricate architecture, and lively streets. You will find a mix of historic squares, winding alleys, and relaxed cafés that invite you to slow down and explore.

What to expect
The city blends traditional neighbourhoods with modern pockets of development. Durbar Square and the surrounding old town offer narrow streets, courtyards, and historic buildings, while areas like Thamel are busier, with guesthouses, shops, and restaurants catering to travellers.

Plan your trip
Kathmandu is a natural starting point for journeys across Nepal, from scenic drives to trekking gateways in the surrounding hills. Plan a few days in the city to adjust, explore its highlights, and arrange onward travel to nearby valleys, viewpoints, and mountain regions.

Top sights in Kathmandu

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Wander through this historic palace complex and surrounding courtyards, admiring traditional Newar architecture and lively local street life.

Thamel

Explore a maze of lanes filled with trekking outfitters, cafés, and souvenir shops, ideal for an afternoon stroll or last-minute trip preparation.

Patan Durbar Square

Cross the river to discover Patan’s beautifully restored square, with finely carved buildings and a calmer atmosphere than central Kathmandu.

Boudhanath Stupa

Visit one of the largest spherical stupas in the world, set within a circular plaza lined with rooftop cafés and small shops.

Garden of Dreams

Take a break from the busy streets in this restored neo-classical garden, a quiet place to read, relax, or enjoy a drink outdoors.

Swayambhu Hill

Climb the steps up this hilltop complex for wide views over the Kathmandu Valley and a different perspective on the city below.

Nagarkot day trip

Head out of the valley to Nagarkot for fresh air, walking trails, and sunrise or sunset views over distant Himalayan peaks on clear days.

Experience Kathmandu’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Taxis and app-based rides are a practical way to move between districts, while rickshaws and walking suit shorter hops within the old city. Traffic can be busy, so allow extra time for transfers to and from the airport and main bus stations.

Local life & culture
Much of Kathmandu’s character is found in its side streets, where small workshops, courtyards, and local teahouses sit alongside family homes. Morning and late afternoon are particularly active, as residents shop, socialise, and move between neighbourhood hubs.

Where to unwind
When you need a pause, retreat to green spaces like the Garden of Dreams or quieter cafés on the edges of Thamel and Patan. Late afternoons are pleasant for sitting on terraces, enjoying cooler temperatures and soft light over the valley.

A taste of Kathmandu

Street food & local specialties
Kathmandu is known for comforting dishes such as handmade dumplings, warming soups, and rice-based plates. Neighbourhoods around Asan and the old city lanes host small eateries where you can sample everyday flavours favoured by residents.

Casual & modern dining hubs
In Thamel, Lazimpat, and parts of Patan, you will find casual restaurants and cafés offering a mix of local and international menus. Many places serve smaller portions or shared plates, making it easy to try several dishes in one sitting.

Signature & scenic dining
For a special evening, consider rooftop terraces overlooking Boudhanath or viewpoints in Patan that look back towards Kathmandu’s skyline. Some hotels and standalone restaurants also offer more refined dining rooms for relaxed, slow-paced meals.

Retail therapy in Kathmandu

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Kathmandu has a growing number of modern shopping centres where you can find international brands, cinemas, and family-friendly entertainment. These air-conditioned complexes offer a comfortable break from the busy streets outside.

Markets & local crafts
The lanes around Asan, Indra Chowk, and central Thamel are known for textiles, handicrafts, and outdoor gear. You can browse for items such as woven fabrics, decorative pieces, and trekking essentials produced by local workshops and regional suppliers.

Evening retail scene
After dark, main shopping streets in Thamel and parts of Patan stay lively with illuminated storefronts and open-air stalls. Night-time browsing pairs well with a relaxed dinner nearby, and local taxis make it straightforward to return to your hotel.

Best time to visit Kathmandu

Spring (Basanta Ritu, March to May, shoulder season)
Spring in Kathmandu is mild to warm, with average temperatures around 15–28°C (59–82°F). Clear mornings and comfortable evenings make this a pleasant time for city walks and valley excursions, with blooming flowers adding colour to parks and hillsides.

Monsoon summer (Grishma Ritu, June to September, low season)
During the monsoon months, temperatures range from about 20–30°C (68–86°F), with frequent showers bringing lush greenery to the surrounding hills. Rainy spells are often interspersed with bright breaks, creating atmospheric city scenes and quieter visitor numbers.

Autumn and winter (Sharad and Hemanta Ritu, October to February, peak season)
Autumn and winter bring cooler, clearer conditions, with average temperatures from 4–20°C (39–68°F). Skies are often crisp, making this a popular time for views of distant mountains and comfortable sightseeing in the valley’s historic districts.

Frequently Asked Questions