Kathmandu is a mountain-framed valley city where ancient squares, narrow lanes, and hilltop viewpoints sit close together. You feel the pull of the Himalayas alongside a lively, creative urban scene.
Discover Kathmandu
Discover Kathmandu
Why visit Kathmandu?
What to expect
Expect bustling streets lined with traditional courtyards, historic plazas filled with carved temples, and rooftop terraces looking towards distant peaks. Neighbourhoods range from atmospheric old quarters to relaxed, traveller-friendly enclaves.
Plan your trip
Kathmandu is a starting point for Himalayan adventures and cultural journeys across Nepal. Base yourself here to explore nearby heritage towns, then connect onwards to trekking regions and national parks.
Top sights in Kathmandu
Durbar Square
Stroll through Kathmandu Durbar Square to see historic palaces, intricately carved wooden façades, and stone temples that anchor the old city.
Swayambhunath
Climb the hillside steps to Swayambhunath for sweeping views over the valley and a close look at one of Kathmandu’s most striking hilltop monuments.
Boudhanath
Walk the circular lane around Boudhanath, where a soaring white stupa and fluttering prayer flags create one of the city’s most memorable skylines.
Patan (Lalitpur)
Cross the river to Patan to explore its elegant Durbar Square, quiet backstreets, and workshops where artisans keep traditional crafts alive.
Thamel
Wander through Thamel’s maze of lanes for trekking gear shops, cosy cafés, and colourful storefronts that cater to both locals and travellers.
Garden of Dreams
Pause in the Garden of Dreams, a restored neoclassical garden where fountains, lawns, and pavilions offer a calm pocket amid the city’s energy.
Chandragiri Hills
Ride the cable car up Chandragiri Hills on a clear day for fresh air, forested trails, and wide-angle views towards Himalayan ridgelines.
Experience Kathmandu’s everyday rhythm
Getting around
Use taxis or ride-hailing services for most journeys between sights, as streets can be busy and distances longer than they appear. For a slower look at neighbourhood life, walk between nearby areas, then take taxis or hotel cars for the final stretch back to your stay.
Local life & culture
Start your day early to watch plazas and courtyards come to life with shopkeepers opening shutters and residents gathering to talk. Later, wander mixed neighbourhoods where traditional architecture, street art, and small creative studios sit side by side.
Where to unwind
Seek quiet in courtyard cafés, rooftop terraces, and the city’s green pockets on the edges of the valley. Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light and cooler temperatures for gentle walks and viewpoints.
A taste of Kathmandu
Street food & local specialties
Try local favourites such as dumpling-style snacks, warming noodle soups, and spiced snacks in old-town lanes and busy neighbourhood hubs like Thamel and Patan. Small eateries and stalls often focus on a handful of fresh, comforting dishes.
Casual & modern dining hubs
Around central districts and newer streets you find cafés, bakeries, and relaxed restaurants serving both local and international flavours. Modest portions and shared plates make it easy to sample several dishes with friends or family.
Signature & scenic dining
Choose a rooftop restaurant for views over historic squares or city rooftops, especially at sunset when the valley glows. On clear evenings, some venues on surrounding hillsides pair wide horizons with a quieter, cooler setting.
Retail therapy in Kathmandu
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Modern shopping centres dotted around the city combine fashion, electronics, and cinemas with cafés, creating comfortable places to browse and meet friends away from the traffic.
Markets & local crafts
Explore traditional streets and neighbourhoods such as Patan, Thamel, and Asan for handmade crafts, textiles, metalwork, and locally produced accessories tucked into small boutiques and workshop-fronted lanes.
Evening retail scene
After dark, central streets glow with shopfronts, signboards, and lively cafés that stay open into the evening. Taxis and ride-hailing services make it simple to reach and return from these areas at night.
Best time to visit Kathmandu
Peak season: October to November, with clear skies and comfortable days around 15–22°C (59–72°F), ideal for city exploring and mountain views. Shoulder season: March to May, when days warm to about 18–28°C (64–82°F) and flowers bloom across the valley. Low season: June to September, when the monsoon brings heavier rain, lush hillsides, and temperatures around 20–27°C (68–81°F), plus December to February, which is cooler and drier with crisp mornings averaging 4–18°C (39–64°F).