The ultimate Kathmandu travel guide
The city of Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. One of the poorest countries in the world and by far one of the most remote and exotic travel destinations in Asia. If you plan a trip to Nepal, there is no way to visit the country without spending some time in Kathmandu. The city is all you might expect from Nepal and so much more. It is chaotic, it is wild and it is dirty. The first sight out of the airplane while you are landing at the Kathmandu International Airport might even be shocking. An ocean of old, nearly damaged houses and dust in the air – yes, Kathmandu is a city that literally forces you to leave your comfort zone. But if you are reading this best Kathmandu travel guide and making plans for a trip to Nepal, you are about to make one of the best decisions ever.
Most of the travellers visit Nepal to do a trek in the Himalayas. And still, every trip starts with a few days in Kathmandu. In this travel guide to Kathmandu you will learn how to experience the capital of Nepal at its very best and what you need to know before going there. Let´s start the adventure!
Where to stay in the city – a guide to accommodation in Kathmandu
Starting this full Kathmandu travel guide with your stay in the city during your visit.
Before taking the flight to Kathmandu, you definitely need to book at hotel or a hostel in advance. Only then you can take the chance and book a shuttle directly from the hotel. This will make your arrival much easier and comfortable. For any traveller and tourist the best area to stay in Kathmandu is Thamel.
It is also known as the city center and the Backpacker district of Kathmandu. In Thamel you will find most of the accommodations at any price plus countless shops, restaurants and agencies. Staying in Thamel, in the heart of the city, is the best base for the next days.
Make sure to get in touch with your hotel before arrival to book your airport pick up and the direct transfer to your hotel. You really do not want to bargain with the drivers at the airport and it is best to have someone pick you up. Especially regarding the rather chaotic situation at the terminals.
How long to stay in Kathmandu?
How long you will stay in Kathmandu might depend on your further plans in Nepal.
Some travellers come to city to organize their track and wait for the good conditions to start their trip Lukla. Other tourists decide to take the bus to Pokhara or other destinations and plan to spend a few days in Kathmandu. To really see the city and to get to know the story behind Kathmandu, you should stay a minimum of two days. The ideal time for Kathmandu is three days. This will allow you to see all the highlights of Kathmandu and still get some time to simply stroll around and get settled. You might really need a day or two to fully arrive and get used to the Nepalese vibe.
How to get around the city
Next on the Kathmandu travel guide: how do you even get around the city?
Kathmandu is a city of bikes and cars. The traffic is beyond crazy, which will be one of the first impressions when you arrive. That´s for sure! Many of the main attractions are close to Thamel and can easily be reached by car, bus or foot. Google Maps works perfectly and you can walk to the different attractions, such as Durbar Square. If you are keen to experience Kathmandu at every detail, then the best option is to walk to the attractions and get to know the streets of the city better.
If you are staying during the humid time, walking might not be the best idea. Just ask in your hotel for a driver and they will organize you everything. The Nepalese are always there to help.
For those travellers, who are staying a bit outside of the city or travel on a really tight budget, there is another option: the local bus. This might be an experience itself. But if you want to leave your comfort zone and experience a true Nepalese bus ride, then take the bus to the center or the next temple. It will for sure be unforgettable! Plus, this will cost you only a few cents, which is actually incredible considering the distance.
What you need to know about exploring in Kathmandu – a small travel guide
Before actually getting to the absolute must-dos in Kathmandu, it is important to know the basic rules of the city. This travel guide to Kathmandu is the best preparation for your stay to avoid any no-gos.
Nepal is a very traditional and strict country and it is a duty for tourists to adapt to their rules.
Never show too much skin when walking through the streets or visiting a temple
(the No1 rule on this Kathmandu travel guide)
As in most other countries in Asia, Nepal only allows you to enter a temple when you got your knees and shoulders covered. If you also want to avoid strange glances from the locals, you should dress up in a respectful way whenever you walk through the city. This will not only show your respect, but as well open the doors to a friendly and good relationship with the locals.
Be aware of scams at the temples
For those who have travelled through Asia, this is nothing new. And yet, an important point for the Kathmandu travel guide. There are scams everywhere in Kathmandu. From the taxi drivers to guides who await you at the temples.
If you are interested in taking a guided tour through one of the temples in Kathmandu, it is advised to book directly with your hotel. Any guy who tries to talk to you and convince you to follow him through the temple will probably charge you with a ridiculously high amount of money in the end of the “tour”. Always be aware and use your common sense and a little bit of doubt. Better safe than sorry (or scammed).
Get slowly used to the food
Some travellers love to eat local when they visit a new country. Especially in Asia, this can be an experience itself. And yes, the Nepalese food is DELICIOUS. Especially for vegetarians, you get quite a great selection of different meals. In Kathmandu (and everywhere else in the country), eating in a local restaurant can be incredibly cheap. Ordering the national meal “Dal Bhat” will cost you only a few Euros. But watch out! Our bellies are not used to the Nepalese herbs and ingredients and might react to it. It is best, if you get slowly used to it and eat in Western restaurants first before trying out the local ones.
What you need to see in the city – a travel guide to Kathmandu ´ s highlights
The temples of Kathmandu
The temples can simply not be missing in a Kahtmandu travel guide.
One of the best things to do in Kathmandu is take a trip through the main temples of the city. Thorugh these visits you will not only see the main attractions of the Nepalese capital, but as well get to know the culture and the religion of the country better. One of the first temples you should visit is the Swayambhunath Stupa. This temple is mainly known as the Monkey Temple and is by far the most impressive attraction in the city. It is located on a hill directly in Kathmandu and offers you an impressive overview. Another gem is the Pashupatinath-Temple. For the local Hindus, this is the most important site in the city and most visitors leave in awe of the religion and its traditions.
Stroll through Thamel
Of course, you should spend as much time as possible in the streets of Thamel. You will find numerous markets with local sellers to stroll over. They sell anything from spices to vegetables or clothes. There are many shops where you can basically get anything you want. Some fake North Face clothing for your trek, traditional scarfs and dresses or other souvenirs. Kathmandu is truly a shopping paradise.
Visit the Durbar Square and the Garden of Dreams
Another historical attraction is the Kathmandu Durbar Square which is located in Thamel. A giant square with small temples and old buildings. You will see the locals strolling over the square, praying and others selling beautiful jewelry or art. A more hidden highlight of Kathmandu is the Garden of Dreams. A small but beautiful park that allows you to escape the rush and the noise of the city. There is a stunning café and lots of benches inviting you to take a break.
Try lots of food – the culinary side on the Kathmandu travel guide
Take your time in Kathmandu to get to know the local cuisine. As earlier mentioned, this should be taken seriously. Still, the food and the culinary side of Nepal is way to good. Search for some nice restaurants or cafés and have a daily milk tea and rice.
There are many restaurants in Thamel which invite you to a journey of tastes. Make sure to taste Kathmandu properly, you definitely won´t regret it.
Walk through the rural areas
This might be a more “remote” and “raw” experience on this travel guide to Kathmandu.
If you like to leave the center of the city for a bit and stroll through the more rural areas, there are lots of opportunities. As soon as you leave the area of Thamel, you will directly see the homes of the locals and their living conditions. Even though it is not very different from Thamel, it still feels like entering a different world. A good way to get to know more about the life in Kathmandu and the different groups in the Nepalese society is to hire a guide who will take you to these areas. Considering the safety in some areas, this might be a good idea. But this goes only for the slums. Most of the rural areas are safe, even for tourists. This will for sure be an experience that lasts and gives you an insight into what Nepal really is.
A Kathmandu travel guide for all travellers
Kathmandu is one of those cities which separates the travellers. While some love it, others hate it. But no matter what side you chose, you will forever be grateful for taking the chance and exploring the extraordinary capital. And one day, the rush and the chaos of Nepal will be deep in your heart and you will think back to an amazing time in Kathmandu. And that´s a promise!
Of course, you do not come to Nepal to just visit Kathmandu. If you are planning your further travels through the country, check out The best route through Nepal.
