Flights from Bangkok (BKK) to Kathmandu (KTM)

About Kathmandu

Discover Kathmandu

Why visit Kathmandu?
Kathmandu is a vivid valley city framed by Himalayan foothills, where historic squares, winding lanes, and colourful courtyards create an intimate urban maze. You can explore layers of history, traditional architecture, and lively street life within a compact, walkable area.

What to expect
The city centres around old neighbourhoods such as Thamel and Durbar Square, where heritage buildings, small cafés, and shops line narrow streets. Traffic is busy, but you will find quiet courtyards, rooftop terraces, and side alleys that reveal a slower, more traditional rhythm.

Plan your trip
Kathmandu is a natural starting point for treks into the Himalayas and adventures across Nepal, from lakeside Pokhara to wildlife-rich southern plains. Plan a few days in the city to adjust to the altitude, arrange permits, and enjoy the valley before heading into the wider region.

Top sights in Kathmandu

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Wander among ornate palaces and traditional buildings in this historic square at the heart of the old city.

Thamel district

Stroll through this bustling neighbourhood filled with trekking shops, cafés, and small guesthouses.

Swayambhu hill area

Climb the hillside steps for sweeping views over the Kathmandu Valley and a panorama of the city below.

Pashupati riverside precinct

Walk along the riverside ghats to see historic architecture and observe the daily rhythm beside the water.

Garden of Dreams

Take a break from the busy streets in this restored neo-classical garden with shaded seating and calm lawns.

Patan Durbar Square

Cross into nearby Lalitpur to admire finely carved buildings and quiet courtyards around this elegant square.

Boudha neighbourhood

Explore this atmospheric district encircling a striking white dome and enjoy rooftop views over the area.

Experience Kathmandu’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Most visitors move between neighbourhoods using taxis or ride-hailing services, which are convenient for the valley’s narrow roads. For short distances, walking is often the quickest way to explore, especially in Thamel and around Durbar Squares, so comfortable footwear is essential.

Local life & culture
Kathmandu’s streets are full of small family-run shops, handicraft workshops, and tea stalls where neighbours gather. Traditional festivals and processions often spill into the streets, and you will see everyday life unfold in courtyards, pavements, and small community squares across the city.

Where to unwind
To pause from the bustle, head to tranquil gardens, rooftop terraces, or cafés set back from the main roads. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal times to enjoy clearer air and softer light, with distant hills often visible around the valley rim.

A taste of Kathmandu

Street food & local specialties
Kathmandu offers comforting dishes such as steamed dumplings, noodle soups, and hearty rice plates. You will find lively snack stalls and small eateries throughout Thamel, around Durbar Squares, and along busy main roads serving quick, satisfying meals.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Across the city, you can enjoy relaxed restaurants, bakeries, and cafés offering local and international flavours. Many menus feature sharing plates and smaller portions, making it easy to sample a variety of dishes in one sitting and adjust to new tastes at your own pace.

Signature & scenic dining
For memorable meals, choose rooftop restaurants overlooking the old city or venues on the valley’s slopes with wider views. Dining with a cityscape or hillside backdrop adds a special atmosphere, especially at sunset when lights begin to glow across Kathmandu.

Retail therapy in Kathmandu

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Kathmandu has a growing number of modern shopping centres where you will find international brands, cinemas, and cafés. These air-conditioned spaces provide a comfortable break from the streets and a convenient place to pick up everyday essentials.

Markets & local crafts
For something more local, explore smaller streets and markets around Thamel, Patan, and Boudha. Here you will find handicrafts, textiles, and decorative items produced by local artisans, along with trekking gear shops clustered near the main tourist areas.

Evening retail scene
In the evening, streets in Thamel and around the main squares stay lively with illuminated shopfronts and late-opening stores. It is a good time to browse at a slower pace before or after dinner, with taxis and ride-hailing options making it simple to return to your hotel.

Best time to visit Kathmandu

Spring season (Chaitra to Jestha, March to May, shoulder season)
Spring in Kathmandu brings mild to warm days, typically around 18–28°C (64–82°F), with blooming trees across the valley. Visibility can be hazy at times, but this is a pleasant season for city sightseeing and preparing for treks in higher elevations.

Monsoon season (Ashadh to Bhadra, June to early September, low season)
During the monsoon, temperatures often sit between 20–29°C (68–84°F), with regular showers and lush greenery in and around the valley. Rain usually comes in bursts, leaving clear intervals for exploring nearby neighbourhoods and enjoying quieter streets.

Autumn and winter season (Ashwin to Falgun, late September to February, peak season)
Autumn and winter offer cooler, clearer conditions, with temperatures ranging from about 5–23°C (41–73°F) depending on the month. Skies are often crisp, making this a popular time for views of surrounding hills and for combining city stays with mountain or countryside trips.

Frequently Asked Questions