Flights from Los Angeles (LAX) to Kathmandu (KTM)

About Kathmandu

Discover Kathmandu

Why visit Kathmandu?
Kathmandu is a historic valley city framed by distant peaks, where winding alleys, traditional squares, and lively cafés sit side by side. You will find a welcoming atmosphere, layered architecture, and a gentle pace that invites you to slow down and explore.

What to expect
The city centres around old plazas, narrow streets, and bustling neighbourhoods such as Thamel and Patan. Expect a mix of centuries-old buildings, compact courtyards, and modern shops, with colourful street life and plenty of small cafés and guesthouses tucked into every corner.

Plan your trip
Kathmandu works well as both a stand-alone city break and a starting point for wider journeys in Nepal. Many travellers spend a few days here before heading to nearby towns, mountain viewpoints, or trekking regions, making the capital a practical and engaging gateway to the rest of the country.

Top sights in Kathmandu

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Stroll through this historic plaza to admire intricate traditional architecture, statues, and lively courtyards in the heart of the old city.

Patan Durbar Square

Explore elegant palace buildings and museums in Patan, just across the river, where art, craft, and history come together in one compact area.

Thamel

Wander the busy streets of Thamel, a popular quarter known for its cafés, trekking shops, and evening atmosphere.

Garden of Dreams

Take a break from the city at this restored neoclassical garden, a peaceful spot for a quiet walk or a drink outdoors.

Boudhanath Stupa

Visit one of Kathmandu Valley’s most recognisable landmarks, surrounded by rooftop cafés and views over the circular complex.

Nagarkot viewpoint

Take a day trip or overnight stay in Nagarkot for sweeping views of the surrounding hills and, on clear days, distant Himalayan ranges.

Ason Bazaar

Head into the narrow lanes of Ason to see local markets selling spices, vegetables, and household goods in a lively setting.

Experience Kathmandu’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Taxis and ride-hailing services are the most straightforward ways to move between neighbourhoods and sights in Kathmandu. For shorter distances, walking through the old city streets is often the quickest option, while hotel-arranged transfers are useful for early morning or late-evening trips.

Local life & culture
Much of daily life takes place in the streets, courtyards, and small squares of the valley. You will see residents gathering to chat, shop, and relax outside, especially in older quarters. Artisans, small businesses, and studios add a creative energy that you can sense as you explore.

Where to unwind
When you need a pause, head to the Garden of Dreams, hotel pools, or rooftop terraces overlooking the city. Nearby hills and viewpoints offer fresher air and softer light in the early morning or late afternoon, making them ideal for a calm escape from the busy streets.

A taste of Kathmandu

Street food & local specialties
Around Thamel, Ason, and the old quarters, you will find small eateries serving local staples, steaming snacks, and comforting soups. These simple spots are ideal for trying everyday dishes enjoyed by residents across the valley.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Thamel, Lazimpat, and Patan have a growing range of cafés and restaurants offering regional and international flavours. Many menus are designed for sharing, so you can sample a variety of dishes in one sitting, whether you are travelling solo or with friends.

Signature & scenic dining
For a special evening, choose a restaurant with a rooftop terrace or garden setting, where you can dine above the streets or in a leafy courtyard. Some venues offer valley or cityline views, giving you a memorable backdrop to your meal, especially around sunset.

Retail therapy in Kathmandu

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Modern shopping centres in areas such as Durbar Marg and the city centre offer international brands, cafés, and cinemas. These air-conditioned spaces provide a convenient break from the streets and a comfortable place to browse, meet friends, or pick up everyday items.

Markets & local crafts
For local character, visit Ason, Indra Chowk, and the lanes of Thamel, where you will find textiles, crafts, and a mix of traditional and contemporary goods. Patan is also known for workshops and boutiques featuring metalwork, artwork, and handmade pieces.

Evening retail scene
As daylight fades, parts of Thamel and the main streets around the old city stay active with open shops and lit-up signboards. You can enjoy a relaxed evening browse after sightseeing, with taxis and ride-hailing services making it easy to return to your hotel afterwards.

Best time to visit Kathmandu

Spring season (Basanta Ritu, March to May, shoulder season)
Spring in Kathmandu is mild to warm, with average temperatures around 18–25°C (64–77°F). Days are generally clear, making it a pleasant time for city walks and short valley excursions, with blooming trees adding colour to the streets and surrounding hills.

Monsoon season (Barsha Ritu, June to September, low season)
During the monsoon, temperatures hover around 20–27°C (68–81°F), with regular showers and lush greenery across the valley. Rain tends to fall in bursts, so you can still enjoy indoor attractions, cafés, and markets between showers, experiencing the city at a quieter, softer pace.

Autumn and winter season (Sharad and Hemanta Ritu, October to February, peak season)
From October, cooler, clear days bring average temperatures of about 10–20°C (50–68°F), with colder nights in mid-winter. Visibility is often good, making this a popular time for views of surrounding hills and for exploring the city’s outdoor squares and neighbourhoods in crisp, bright conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions