Kathmandu

Kathmandu Travel Guide

Welcome to the vibrant city of Kathmandu! This travel guide is designed to provide you with an immersive experience as you explore one of the most culturally rich and picturesque cities in the world.

Places to Go

  1. Durbar Square: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Durbar Square is a complex of palaces, courtyards, and temples built by the Malla and Shah kings between the 12th and 18th centuries.

  2. Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): Perched atop a hill west of Kathmandu, this sacred Buddhist site offers panoramic views of the city.

  3. Bouddhanath Stupa: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bouddhanath is one of the largest stupas in the world and an important pilgrimage destination for Tibetan Buddhists.

  4. Pashupatinath Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is considered one of the most significant Hindu temples. Non-Hindus can only observe from the eastern bank of the Bagmati River.

  5. Patan Durbar Square: Known for its rich Newari architecture, Patan Durbar Square is home to several temples, palaces, and monasteries.

  6. Thamel: A bustling tourist hub filled with shops, restaurants, and hostels.

  7. Changu Narayan Temple: Located about 30km from Kathmandu, this ancient temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Activities

  1. Trekking: Kathmandu serves as a gateway for numerous treks in the Himalayas, including Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, and Langtang Valley.

  2. White Water Rafting: Experience the thrill of rafting on the rivers Trishuli, Bhotekoshi, and Sun Kosi.

  3. Paragliding: Take flight over the scenic valley of Pokhara for an unforgettable experience.

  4. Visit Tibet: Organize a trip to Lhasa, the capital of Tibet, through a local travel agency.

Where to Eat

  1. New Ariya Bhimsen: Try traditional Nepali dishes like Dal Bhat Tarkari and Momos at this popular restaurant in Thamel.

  2. Kumari Restaurant: Offers a variety of Nepali, Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisines.

  3. The Garden of Dreams: A beautiful café located in the heart of Kathmandu serving delicious food and beverages.

  4. Or2k: A popular restaurant chain offering international cuisine, with several locations around the city.

Where to Stay

  1. Dwarika’s Hotel: A luxurious 5-star hotel in the heart of Kathmandu, known for its exceptional service and historic architecture.

  2. Hotel Yak & Yeti: Another 5-star option located near the bustling Thamel area.

  3. The Himalaya Hotel: A more affordable option with a convenient location in Thamel.

  4. Hostels: Numerous hostels catering to budget travelers can be found in Thamel and other areas of the city.

Things to Know

  1. Language: Nepali is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

  2. Currency: The Nepalese Rupee (NPR) is the official currency. Credit cards are accepted at many establishments, especially in Kathmandu and major tourist destinations.

  3. Electricity: The power socket type used in Nepal is C/F/J, with a voltage of 220-240V.

  4. Visa Requirements: Most nationalities require a visa to enter Nepal. You can obtain a tourist visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport or at the border.

  5. Safety: Exercise caution when walking in unfamiliar areas, especially after dark. Be mindful of your belongings and avoid displaying valuable items publicly.

Transportation

  1. Airport: Kathmandu’s main airport is Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM). Direct flights are available from many major cities in Asia, as well as Europe and the Middle East.

  2. Taxis: Taxis are readily available throughout the city, but be sure to agree on a price before setting off to avoid overcharging.

  3. Bus/Microbus: Public buses are an affordable option for traveling within Kathmandu and to nearby destinations, such as Bhaktapur and Patan. Microbuses offer a faster, more comfortable alternative.

  4. Rickshaws: Rickshaws can be found throughout the city and make for a unique mode of transportation.

Tips

  1. Respect Cultural Customs: When visiting temples or monasteries, dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering.

  2. Bargain: It’s customary to bargain in local markets and shops, although prices are typically lower than in other countries in the region.

  3. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration, as Kathmandu can be quite dry during certain times of the year.

  4. Try Local Foods: Nepali cuisine offers a variety of delicious and unique dishes, so don’t hesitate to try something new!

  5. Be Mindful of Time: When visiting temples or other religious sites, avoid visiting during prayer times to show respect for the locals.