Kathmandu

The spiritual city Kathmandu is the gateway to hiking in the Nepalese mountains. Durbar Square stands as a testament to Nepal’s rich history. Nearby, the scent of incense fills the air around Swayambhunath, the monkey temple. Wander its streets, and you might find yourself in a courtyard, joining locals in a festival that’s been celebrated for centuries.

Chapters

Kathmandu Guide
Where to Stay
Best Season
Local Tips

Local Tips

Highlights:

• Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)
• Boudhanath Stupa
• Thamel District
• Pashupatinath Temple
• Durbar Square

Lowlights:

• Air pollution
• Traffic congestion
• Tourist area crowding


Currency: –
Festivities: –

Kathmandu Guide

Guide for 1 Day

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious local breakfast at Bhumi Restaurant, then head to the Swayambhunath Stupa (also known as the Monkey Temple) to witness stunning views of Kathmandu valley and learn about Buddhist culture and history.
  • Explore the vibrant local market at Asan Tole to experience the hustle and bustle of daily life in Kathmandu.
  • Visit the Garden of Dreams, a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city that offers a peaceful escape from the busy streets.

Midday

  • Enjoy a traditional Nepali lunch at Nepali Chulo, a restaurant that serves authentic Nepali cuisine.
  • Stroll through the Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases traditional Newari architecture and culture.

Afternoon

  • Visit the Kathmandu Contemporary Arts Centre to view contemporary Nepali art and learn about the local art scene.
  • Explore the Thamel neighborhood, famous for its shopping and nightlife, where you can find unique souvenirs and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city.

Evening

  • Savor a delicious dinner at Fire and Ice Pizzeria, a popular restaurant that serves authentic Italian pizza.
  • Experience the local nightlife scene at Electric Pagoda, a trendy bar that offers live music and a wide selection of drinks.
  • End your day with a visit to the Boudhanath Stupa, the largest stupa in Nepal and a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases Tibetan culture and history.

Guide for 2 Days

Day 1

Morning

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Thamel House Restaurant, known for its traditional Nepali cuisine.
  • Visit the iconic Swayambhunath Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to marvel at its stunning architecture and panoramic views of Kathmandu.
  • Explore the vibrant streets of Asan Bazaar, a bustling local market where you can find everything from spices to handicrafts.

Midday

  • Indulge in a delicious lunch at Yangling Tibetan Restaurant, offering authentic Tibetan dishes.
  • Discover the hidden gem of Garden of Dreams, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, perfect for relaxation and tranquility.

Afternoon

  • Immerse yourself in the rich history of Nepal at the Narayanhiti Palace Museum, former royal palace turned museum, showcasing the country’s royal artifacts.
  • Experience the local culture and traditions at Indra Chowk, a vibrant market square where you can witness traditional Newari architecture and shop for souvenirs.

Evening

  • Enjoy a delectable dinner at Bhojan Griha, a traditional Nepali restaurant known for its authentic flavors and cultural performances.
  • Unwind at Sam’s Bar, a popular hangout spot among locals and tourists, offering a wide range of beverages.
  • End your evening with a leisurely stroll along the lively streets of Thamel, the tourist hub of Kathmandu, filled with shops, restaurants, and nightlife options.

Day 2

Morning

  • Fuel up for the day ahead with a delicious breakfast at Or2k, a vegetarian-friendly restaurant known for its diverse menu options.
  • Explore the architectural marvel of Patan Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to ancient palaces, temples, and intricate woodwork.
  • Discover the hidden gem of Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most sacred Hindu temples in the world, known for its stunning architecture and religious significance.

Midday

  • Enjoy a scrumptious lunch at Chimney Restaurant, offering a fusion of Nepali and international cuisines with a cozy ambiance.
  • Visit the serene Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world, where you can witness monks, devotees, and prayer flags in a peaceful atmosphere.

Afternoon

  • Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture at Ason, a bustling market filled with spices, textiles, and traditional artifacts.
  • Get a glimpse into the traditional Newari lifestyle at Basantapur Durbar Square, a historic square showcasing ancient temples, palaces, and intricate wood carvings.

Evening

  • Savor the flavors of Nepali cuisine with a delightful dinner at Newa Lahana, a restaurant specializing in Newari dishes.
  • Unwind at House of Music, a live music venue offering a mix of local and international performances.
  • End your evening with a visit to Durbar Marg, a popular shopping district known for its upscale boutiques and trendy cafes.

Guide for 3 Days

Day 1

Morning

  • Start your day at Boudhanath Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest spherical stupa in Nepal, while enjoying a traditional Nepalese breakfast.
  • Visit the Pashupatinath Temple, a sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
  • Explore the Thamel Market, a bustling shopping district with a variety of local handicrafts and souvenirs to choose from.

Midday

  • Indulge in a delicious Nepalese lunch at Everest Mo:Mo, a popular restaurant known for its momos, a traditional Nepalese dumpling.
  • Visit the Garden of Dreams, a beautiful neo-classical garden in the heart of Kathmandu.

Afternoon

  • Experience the Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, which offers stunning views of the city.
  • Discover the hidden gem of Kathmandu Fun Park, a family-friendly amusement park with a variety of attractions.

Evening

  • Enjoy a delicious dinner at NewaLaa, a restaurant specializing in Newari cuisine.
  • Head to Club Deja Vu for a lively night out.
  • Experience the local nightlife at Indra Chowk, a bustling square with food stalls and live music performances.

Day 2

Morning

  • Enjoy a breakfast of Nepalese tea and bread at Chikusa Café, a cozy café with a relaxing atmosphere.
  • Visit the Changunarayan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the oldest Hindu temples in Nepal.
  • Explore the Kathmandu Durbar Square, a historical site with temples, palaces, and courtyards.

Midday

  • Try the traditional Newari lunch at Bhumi Restaurant & Bar, a restaurant known for its authentic Newari cuisine.
  • Visit the Asan Bazaar, a local market with a variety of spices, textiles, and other goods.

Afternoon

Evening

  • Dine at Thakali Kitchen, a restaurant specializing in Thakali cuisine.
  • Enjoy a drink at The Bar Café, a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
  • Experience a traditional Nepalese cultural show at Nepal Mandala, a cultural center showcasing traditional music, dance, and theater.

Day 3

Morning

  • Enjoy a breakfast of traditional Nepalese tea and bread at Yala Café, a charming café with a cozy atmosphere.
  • Visit the Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site with temples, palaces, and courtyards.
  • Explore the Changu Narayan village, a traditional Newari settlement.

Midday

  • Try the delicious Newari lunch at Bara Square, a local eatery known for its authentic Newari cuisine.
  • Visit the Chabahil Stupa, a lesser-known but beautiful stupa.

Afternoon

Evening

  • Dine at Fire and Ice Pizzeria, a restaurant known for its delicious wood-fired pizzas.
  • Enjoy a drink at The Chimney, a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city.
  • End your trip with a relaxing evening at Kathmandu Spa, a spa offering a variety of treatments and massages.

Guide for 5 Days

Day 1

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast of Aloo Paratha, a popular local dish served with yogurt and chutney.
  • Visit the iconic Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, and enjoy the stunning views of the city from the hilltop.
  • Explore the bustling streets of Thamel, a popular tourist district known for its shops, restaurants, and street vendors.

Midday

  • Try some authentic Nepalese cuisine for lunch at Newa Mo: Mo, a hidden gem in the busy streets of Ason.
  • Take a stroll through the colorful and vibrant alleys of Asan Tole, a local market selling everything from spices to handicrafts.

Afternoon

  • Visit the historic Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with intricate architecture and rich history.
  • Discover the ancient art of pottery at Bhaktapur Pottery Square, where skilled artisans have been crafting pottery for generations.

Evening

  • Indulge in a delicious dinner at The Chimney Restaurant and Bar, a cozy restaurant in Lazimpat serving a variety of international cuisine.
  • Enjoy a drink at Club Déjà Vu, a trendy nightclub with live music and a lively atmosphere.
  • Immerse yourself in the local culture by attending a performance at the National Dance Academy, showcasing traditional Nepalese dance and music.

Day 2

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast of Chiya and Sel Roti, a traditional Nepalese breakfast served with sweet doughnut-like bread and tea.
  • Visit the stunning Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most significant Hindu temples in the world, located on the banks of the Bagmati River.
  • Explore the beautiful and peaceful Garden of Dreams, a neo-classical garden in the heart of Kathmandu.

Midday

  • Savor some delicious momos, a popular Nepalese dumpling, at Momo Karma in Jhamsikhel.
  • Visit the Mahila Diwas Park, a little-known park with beautiful views of the city and a perfect place for a relaxing afternoon.

Afternoon

  • Experience the local culture at Indra Chowk, a vibrant market selling everything from spices to clothing.
  • Visit the Narayanhiti Palace Museum, the former royal palace of Nepal, and learn about the country’s rich history.

Evening

  • Enjoy a delicious dinner at Fire and Ice Pizzeria, serving some of the best pizza in the city.
  • Relax and unwind at Thamel Spa, offering a variety of massages and treatments.
  • Experience the nightlife of Kathmandu at Electric Pagoda, a popular rooftop bar with stunning views of the city.

Day 3

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast of Yomari, a traditional Newari delicacy made of rice flour dough filled with molasses and sesame seeds.
  • Visit the Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest stupas in the world and a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site.
  • Explore the colorful and vibrant streets of Indra Bazaar, a local market selling everything from clothing to jewelry.

Midday

  • Try some delicious Nepalese thali, a platter of various dishes, at Bhojan Griha, a traditional Nepalese restaurant in Dillibazar.
  • Visit the Kathmandu Contemporary Arts Centre, a contemporary art museum showcasing the works of local and international artists.

Afternoon

  • Discover the hidden gem of Khokana Village, a traditional Newari village with narrow alleys and beautiful architecture.
  • Visit the National Museum of Nepal, a museum showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage.

Evening

  • Enjoy a delicious dinner at OR2K, a vegetarian restaurant in Thamel serving a variety of international cuisine.
  • Experience the local nightlife at House of Music, a popular live music venue with a beautiful outdoor seating area.
  • Unwind and relax at Kathmandu Yoga, offering a variety of yoga classes for all levels.

Day 4

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast of Chhurpi and Bhatmas Sadeko, a traditional Nepalese breakfast made of dried cheese and soybeans.
  • Visit the Namo Buddha Stupa, a sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site located in a peaceful village in the outskirts of Kathmandu.
  • Explore the beautiful and serene Phulchoki Hill, the highest peak in the Kathmandu Valley with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Midday

  • Savor some delicious Newari cuisine at Bara Pasal, a local restaurant in Kirtipur serving traditional dishes.
  • Visit the Kathmandu Fun Park, a popular amusement park with rides and attractions for all ages.

Afternoon

  • Discover the beautiful and serene Chandragiri Hill, offering breathtaking views of the valley and the surrounding mountains.
  • Visit the Patan Museum, a museum showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the city of Patan.

Evening

Day 5

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast of Chhoyla and Dhindo, a traditional Newari breakfast made of spiced meat and cornmeal porridge.
  • Visit the Changu Narayan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest Hindu temples in Nepal.
  • Explore the beautiful and peaceful Budhanilkantha Temple, a sacred Hindu temple located in the northern outskirts of Kathmandu.

Midday

  • Savor some delicious Nepalese cuisine at Thakali Kitchen, a local restaurant in Lazimpat serving traditional Thakali dishes.
  • Visit the National Botanical Garden, a serene garden with a variety of plant species and beautiful views of the valley.

Afternoon

  • Discover the hidden gem of Kirtipur Village, a traditional Newari village with narrow alleys and beautiful architecture.
  • Visit the Kathmandu Zoo, a popular zoo with a variety of animal species.

Evening

  • Enjoy a delicious dinner at Northfield Cafe and Bar, a cozy restaurant in Thamel serving a variety of international cuisine.
  • Experience the local nightlife at The Moksh Live Bar, a popular live music venue with a lively atmosphere.
  • Unwind and relax at Tranquility Spa, offering a variety of massages and treatments.

Guide for 1 Week

Day 1

Morning

  • Start your day with a traditional Nepali breakfast at Newa Lahana, a cozy restaurant in the heart of the city.
  • Visit the iconic Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, which offers stunning views of the city.
  • Explore the vibrant alleyways of Thamel, a popular tourist hub with numerous shops and restaurants.

Midday

  • Enjoy a delicious thali lunch at Bhojan Griha, a beautiful restaurant that showcases Nepali culture and architecture.
  • Visit the Patan Museum, housed in a former Malla palace and featuring a collection of traditional art and artifacts.

Afternoon

Evening

  • Savor a cozy dinner at Fire and Ice Pizzeria, a popular restaurant that offers a variety of Italian dishes.
  • Experience the nightlife of Kathmandu with a visit to Club Deja Vu, a trendy nightclub that attracts both locals and tourists.
  • End the evening with a stroll through the bustling streets of Asan Tole, a vibrant market area in the heart of the city.

Day 2

Morning

  • Indulge in a hearty breakfast at Kaiser Cafe, a cozy cafe with a beautiful garden and a view of the Himalayas.
  • Explore the Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest stupas in Nepal and a center of Tibetan Buddhism.
  • Visit the Pashupatinath Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most sacred Hindu temples in the world.

Midday

  • Enjoy a delicious lunch at Or2k, a vegetarian restaurant with a hippie vibe and a selection of international dishes.
  • Visit the Garden of Dreams, a beautiful neo-classical garden that offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Afternoon

  • Explore the narrow alleys and hidden courtyards of Old Patan, a historic neighborhood that showcases traditional Newari architecture.
  • Visit the Narayanhiti Palace Museum, a former royal palace that offers a glimpse into the history and culture of Nepal.

Evening

  • Savor a delicious dinner at Baan Thai, a popular restaurant that serves authentic Thai cuisine.
  • Experience the local nightlife at House of Music, a live music venue that features both local and international musicians.
  • End the evening with a stroll through the colorful streets of Jhamsikhel, a trendy neighborhood with numerous cafes and bars.

Day 3

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Cafe With No Name, a cozy cafe with a laid-back atmosphere and a selection of international dishes.
  • Visit the National Museum of Nepal, which houses a collection of art, artifacts, and archaeological finds that showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage.
  • Explore the colorful streets and hidden alleys of Indra Chowk, a bustling market area in the heart of the city.

Midday

  • Savor a delicious lunch at Momo Magic, a popular restaurant that serves a variety of momos, a traditional Nepali dumpling.
  • Visit the Namo Buddha Stupa, a Buddhist pilgrimage site that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Afternoon

  • Discover the traditional Newari architecture and art of Bungamati, a historic village on the outskirts of the city.
  • Visit the Kirtipur Hill, a scenic hill that offers panoramic views of the city and the Himalayas.

Evening

  • Savor a delicious dinner at Bhojan Bhumi, a restaurant that specializes in Newari cuisine.
  • Experience the local nightlife at Moksh, a rooftop bar that offers stunning views of the city and a selection of drinks and snacks.
  • End the evening with a stroll through the colorful streets of Lazimpat, a quiet neighborhood with numerous restaurants and cafes.

Day 4

Morning

  • Indulge in a delicious breakfast at Northfield Cafe, a cozy cafe with a selection of international dishes and a friendly atmosphere.
  • Visit the Kathmandu Contemporary Arts Center, a contemporary art gallery that showcases the works of local and international artists.
  • Explore the narrow alleys and hidden courtyards of Basantapur, a historic neighborhood that was once the center of the city.

Midday

  • Savor a delicious lunch at Third Eye Restaurant, a vegetarian restaurant with a selection of international dishes and a rooftop garden.
  • Visit the Changunarayan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest Hindu temples in the Kathmandu Valley.

Afternoon

  • Discover the intricate woodcarvings and metalwork of the Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a cultural center of Bhaktapur.
  • Visit the Dattatreya Square, a historic square in Bhaktapur that features traditional Newari architecture.

Evening

  • Savor a delicious dinner at Chimney Restaurant, a restaurant that specializes in European cuisine.
  • Experience the local nightlife at Sam’s Bar, a popular bar that offers a selection of drinks and live music.
  • End the evening with a stroll through the colorful streets of Patel Marg, a vibrant neighborhood with numerous shops and restaurants.

Day 5

Morning

  • Start your day with a traditional Nepali breakfast at Utse Restaurant, a cozy restaurant in the heart of the city.
  • Visit the Kathmandu Fun Park, a family-friendly amusement park with a variety of rides and attractions.
  • Explore the narrow alleys and hidden courtyards of Asan, a historic neighborhood that features numerous shops and street vendors.

Midday

  • Enjoy a delicious lunch at White Gumba Restaurant, a restaurant with a beautiful view of the city and a selection of international dishes.
  • Visit the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, a nature reserve that offers stunning views of the Himalayas and a variety of hiking trails.

Afternoon

  • Explore the colorful streets and hidden alleys of Thapathali, a trendy neighborhood with numerous cafes and bars.
  • Visit the Durbar Marg, a bustling shopping district with numerous shops and restaurants.

Evening

  • Savor a delicious dinner at Yala Cafe, a restaurant that specializes in Tibetan cuisine.
  • Experience the local nightlife at The Jazz Upstairs, a live music venue that features both local and international musicians.
  • End the evening with a stroll through the vibrant streets of Jhamel, a popular tourist hub with numerous shops and restaurants.

Day 6

Morning

  • Indulge in a delicious breakfast at Cafe Soma, a cozy cafe with a selection of international dishes and a friendly atmosphere.
  • Visit the International Mountain Museum, which showcases the history and culture of mountaineering in Nepal and around the world.
  • Explore the colorful streets and hidden alleys of Bagbazaar, a bustling market area in the heart of the city.

Midday

  • Savor a delicious lunch at Le Sherpa Restaurant, a restaurant with a beautiful view of the city and a selection of international dishes.
  • Visit the Budhanilkantha Temple, a Hindu temple that features a 5-meter-long statue of Lord Vishnu.

Afternoon

  • Discover the intricate woodcarvings and metalwork of the Changu Narayan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest Hindu temples in the Kathmandu Valley.
  • Visit the Basantapur Tower, a historic tower in the center of the city that offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

Evening

  • Savor a delicious dinner at Kathmandu Steak House, a restaurant that specializes in European cuisine.
  • Experience the local nightlife at The Bar, a popular bar that offers a selection of drinks and live music.
  • End the evening with a stroll through the colorful streets of Boudha, a vibrant neighborhood with numerous shops and restaurants.

Day 7

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Himalayan Java Coffee, a cozy cafe with a selection of international dishes and a friendly atmosphere.
  • Visit the Nepal Art Council Gallery, a contemporary art gallery that showcases the works of local and international artists.
  • Explore the narrow alleys and hidden courtyards of Jhochhen, a historic neighborhood that was once the center of the city.

Midday

  • Savor a delicious lunch at Phat Kath, a restaurant with a selection of international dishes and a laid-back atmosphere.
  • Visit the Seto Machindranath Temple, a Hindu temple that features a statue of Lord Machindranath.

Afternoon

  • Explore the colorful streets and hidden alleys of Khichapokhari, a trendy neighborhood with numerous cafes and bars.
  • Visit the Chabahil Stupa, a Buddhist stupa that features intricate carvings and artwork.

Evening

  • Savor a delicious dinner at Rox Restaurant and Bar, a restaurant that specializes in European cuisine.
  • Experience the local nightlife at Electric Pagoda, a popular nightclub that features live music and a selection of drinks.
  • End the evening with a stroll through the vibrant streets of Gongabu, a bustling neighborhood with numerous shops and restaurants.

Where to Stay

Coming soon for Kathmandu!
Luxury: –
Good: –
Budget: –
Hostel: –

Best Season

Coming soon for Kathmandu!