Kathmandu
Kathmandu is loud, dusty and packed with Newar temple architecture, with three separate durbar squares in the valley and major Buddhist and Hindu sites on its edges. Thamel handles trekking logistics and gear. Two or three days covers the valley before or after a trek.
How long to stay
October to November and March to April; winter air quality is poor.
Typical daily budget
No budget published for this place yet
Best time to go
No seasonal guidance published for Kathmandu yet
Is Kathmandu right for your trip?
Based on what this guide covers, not a score. This is what Kathmandu is known for.
Great for
- History & culture
Less of a focus
- Food
- Nightlife
- Nature
- Family
- Couples
Build your Kathmandu trip
Top things to do
Boudhanath Stupa
Entrance $18 · VerifiedKathmandu
One of the largest stupas in the world, circled clockwise by Tibetan pilgrims at dawn and dusk.
Pashupatinath
Entrance $10 · VerifiedKathmandu
The major Hindu temple complex on the Bagmati river, where open-air cremations take place on the ghats.
Patan Durbar Square
Entrance $18 · VerifiedKathmandu
The best-preserved of the valley's royal squares, with Newar palace courtyards and a strong museum.
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Popular activities
Kathmandu valley heritage tour
Guided circuit of Boudhanath, Pashupatinath and Patan.
Newari food crawl
Tasting walk through Patan's traditional Newar kitchens.