The Best Things To Do In Kathmandu, Nepal

In this guide, we’ll be covering the best things to do in Kathmandu, Nepal. Whether you’re visiting before a Himalayan trek or exploring the city in its own right, there are plenty of incredible places to visit in Kathmandu and experiences you won’t want to miss.

“The guest is God” This is a phrase you’ll hear repeated countless times on a visit to Nepal. The thing is, you quickly realise it’s not just an empty platitude, the Nepali people really mean it. It’s a philosophy they live by, made evident in the warmth, kindness and genuine hospitality you’ll experience throughout your time in this captivating country.

Most visits to Nepal begin at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport. Here you’ll be greeted by a sea of friendly faces keen to know which mountain you’re planning to climb and offering their guiding services. Hop in a taxi and head into town, because there’s plenty to see and do before you venture into the Himalayas. Like many big cities, Kathmandu can feel chaotic at first. It’s dusty, noisy, and the traffic can be overwhelming, but give it a day or two and its charm will begin to reveal itself.

Below are some of my favourite things to do in Kathmandu, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems, to help you discover the very best of Nepal’s fascinating capital.

The Best Time to Visit

When researching my trip to Nepal, two seasons were repeatedly recommended online: spring (March to May) and post-monsoon (October to November). I opted for the former but spent the entire five weeks hearing that I should have visited during the latter. Whilst the weather was perfectly pleasant (mild temperatures and occasional rain), the visibility was very poor, meaning I never had clear views of the Himalayas (even when trekking), which was what I really came for.

If your priorities are clear skies and sweeping Himalayan vistas, then I would recommend visiting between October and November – it’s no coincidence that this is peak trekking season.

Where to Stay 

Most travel blogs will recommend Thamel as the place to stay in Kathmandu – it is the tourist heart of the city, where many of the bars, shops, hostels and cafes are located.

If, like me, you prefer a bit more peace and quiet, there are plenty of surrounding areas that will offer this. I opted to stay in Patan, which is technically a different city but, in reality, a 10-minute drive south of central Kathmandu. Over the years, Kathmandu and Patan have expanded until they’ve effectively merged into one continuous urban area. I also spent a few nights in Lazimpat, which is a short 10-minute walk from Thamel, but much quieter. 

The best places to stay:

• Nomad Hotel (Lazimpat) – Comfortable, modern hotel that offers free airport transfers

• Khachhen Apartments (Patan) – Great apartment in the heart of Patan, a few minutes walk from Durbar Square

Getting Around

Whilst many Kathmandu neighbourhoods are walkable, you’ll need transport to travel between them, as well as to explore further into the Kathmandu Valley (which I would highly recommend doing).

The Uber alternative in Nepal is inDrive, and it’s an app that you absolutely want to download for your trip. I found it to be the easiest and cheapest way to get around Kathmandu and beyond.

Note: Unlike most ride-hailing apps, inDrive lets you negotiate the fare with drivers before confirming your ride. You’ll also need cash, as payments are made directly to the driver.

Planning your next Asian adventure? Don’t miss our guide to the 15 Best Places to Travel in Asia.

The Best Things To Do In Kathmandu, Nepal

Step back in time with a visit to Kathmandu Durbar Square

The historic heart of Kathmandu is Durbar Square, and it is the first place I recommend visiting to get a true flavour of Nepali history and culture. The moment you set foot in this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll be transported back in time to the days of medieval warrior kings. Home to more than 50 shrines, temples and palaces, the square feels like a living, open-air museum.

However, the square is very much alive today, with locals coming here to offer prayers to both Hindu and Buddhist gods. Take your time exploring the many hidden intricacies, admiring the stunning pagodas and watching daily life unfold around you. Some of my highlights include the Kaal Bhairav shrine, with its fierce black statue of Lord Shiva’s most fearsome manifestation, and the Jagannath Temple, the oldest structure in the square, famous for its erotic carvings.

Note that there are two other Durbar Squares: one in Patan and one in Bhaktapur, both of which are also well worth visiting.

Circumambulate the Boudhanath Stupa at sunset

There is something truly special about joining the thousands of pilgrims, monks and locals on their evening kora (or clockwise walk) around the Boudhanath Stupa. As daylight fades, hundreds of butter lamps are lit and the crowd moves slowly around and around.  Many chant mantras, spin prayer wheels or quietly count prayer beads, while the occasional few make full-body prostrations at every step.

As one of the largest and most important stupas in the world, Boudhanath is the spiritual heart of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. Its giant white dome and all-seeing Buddha eyes have watched over this sacred site for centuries, creating an atmosphere that feels both deeply spiritual and wonderfully welcoming.

If you get tired of circling, I recommend stopping at Himalayan Java Coffee and snagging a window seat for a bird’s-eye view of the scene and some excellent people watching. 

Shop for souvenirs (or hiking gear) in Thamel

If you’re in Nepal, chances are high you’re going trekking. For any last-minute bits and bobs (or perhaps to get kitted out from head to toe), Thamel is where you’ll want to head.

The lively maze of narrow streets is lined with countless outdoor equipment shops (mostly selling inexpensive knock-offs, although there are a handful of genuine gear stores too), alongside souvenir stalls, handicraft boutiques and quirky little shops. You’ll find prayer flags, miniature prayer wheels, yak wool blankets, singing bowls, hand-carved masks, and more handwoven scarves and shawls than you could possibly imagine.

Uncover Nepali history and culture in the Patan Museum

Patan (also known as Lalitpur) sits just across the Bagmati River on the southern edge of Kathmandu, yet feels like a world of its own. Known as the City of Arts and Architecture, it is home to one of Nepal’s (and some say South Asia’s) finest museums.

The Patan Museum is housed in a beautifully restored royal palace in the centre of Patan Durbar Square and covers more than thirteen centuries of Nepali art, architecture and religious tradition. Its beautiful galleries are filled with intricate wood carvings, metalwork, and Hindu and Buddhist artworks, displayed side by side.

I would recommend a visit to anyone wanting a better understanding of Nepal’s history, religion and artistic traditions. Be sure to stop by the museum café afterwards, where you can enjoy a coffee in the peaceful gardens of the palace courtyard.

Enjoy momos!

You won’t need to look far to find somewhere to sample momos in Kathmandu. These iconic dumplings, made of a simple flour and water dough, stuffed with meat or vegetables, can be found on most menus.

I recommend trying jhol momos, which come in a yummy broth or sauce.  If you want to bring the joy of momos back home with you, there are plenty of cooking classes around the city. Some of my favourite spots for enjoying momos were: 

• Avocado Cafe – nestled in Thamel, this cafe focuses on “fresh, healthy and delicious” food (primarily avocados). They offer a nice selection of momos, which can be enjoyed in a lovely outdoor setting. 

• ROKPA Guest House Restaurant – a beautiful garden restaurant near the Boudhanath Stupa. Come here for some peace (and momos) after your circumambulations. 

• Dhokaima Cafe – a charming cafe located in Patan, with lovely outdoor seating. I especially enjoyed the jhol momos here. 

Spend a night in Buddhist Monastery

If you’re looking to go a little deeper on your trip to Nepal, then I highly recommend a visit to Kopan Monastery in the hills above Kathmandu.

I spent five nights here, taking part in a silent “Introduction to Buddhism” retreat. You can also choose to stay on-site without taking part in a course; check their website here for more details. Be sure to spend some time exploring the beautifully kept gardens, dotted with stupas and offering sweeping views of the city. There is also a cafe, offering hot drinks and food, a gift shop, and a library to enjoy.

Catch a Himalayan sunrise in Nagarkot (and escape the city for a few days)

Like all major cities, Kathmandu can feel overwhelming after a while. When you’re ready to escape, the Kathmandu Valley offers a great break. 

Head east (about 16 miles) to the nearby hill station of Nagarkot to catch a Himalayan sunrise – on a clear day, the views are astounding (and include Everest!). There is plenty of gentle hiking in the area, as well. I stayed at this very unique community lodge. 

If you have more time, Namo Buddha is another lovely place to explore in the valley. Visit the monastery, which is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists in Nepal (I recommend a visit to the cafe too) and check in to the amazing Namo Buddha Resort, which was an accommodation highlight from my trip in Nepal.  

Note: I spent a week in the Kathmandu Valley, known for its stunning mountain views, and during that period I saw the Himalayas for approximately 30 minutes one morning (which was only thanks to a full afternoon of rain the day prior). As the locals will tell you, repeatedly, the only time you are guaranteed Himalayan views is October and November. I still loved getting out into the Kathmandu Valley and would recommend a visit at any time of year. 

Sample Newari cuisine

The Kathmandu Valley is home to the Newar people and their rich culinary traditions. Newari food is unlike anything I have tasted before; full of unique, bold, earthy flavours, it is created from local plants such as the timmur (or Newari pepper).

If you want to try a bit of everything, I would recommend ordering a Samay Baji (a Newari food platter that includes beaten rice, spiced meats, pickles, and fermented vegetables). I also loved chatamari, or “Newari pizza”, made of a thin rice flour base topped with egg, minced meat or vegetables.

Baiga Vutoo in Bhaktapur was my favourite spot for Newari food – you can enjoy watching the food being prepared in the open kitchen, which adds to the experience.  

Take a day trip to Bhatkapur 

Located just thirty minutes east of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur is the third in the trio of ancient royal cities of the Kathmandu Valley. Like the others (Kathmandu and Patan), it features its own Durbar Square, filled with beautifully preserved medieval architecture. 

This city is special for its arts and crafts heritage, which is evident as you stroll through the pedestrianised centre of town. Visit Pottery Square and get your hands dirty in a pottery workshop, watch local craftsmen carving wood in the open studios that line the streets and stop by the Peacock paper factory to see how traditional Nepali paper is made – and pick up some unique souvenirs while you’re there.

Most importantly, be sure to sample the local delicacy juju dhau – a sweet, creamy yogurt made from buffalo milk, served in traditional clay cups and described locally as “the king of yoghurt”.

If you feel like staying overnight, I’d highly recommend Milla Guesthouse, a beautiful boutique hotel that was designed by the architect behind the Patan Museum. 

Kathmandu is a great place to begin a trip to Nepal, but there’s so much more to this wonderful country. From Himalayan trekking and wilderness safaris to ancient monasteries and charming medieval towns, Nepal has a huge amount to offer. Be sure to get out and explore, and spend time getting to know the people who make this country so special.

Before my trip, I kept hearing the same thing: “Nepal is my favourite country.” Now, I can see exactly why. I have a feeling you will too!

Can’t get enough of South Asia? There’s plenty more of Nepal to explore, or you can go all in with our India and Sri Lanka guides for the ultimate South Asian adventure.

Have you been to Kathmandu?

What are the best things to do in Kathmandu? Anything you’d add to this Kathmandu bucket list?

Nikki Scrivener

You can follow Nikki’s work and adventures on @wandering_scrivener and at The Wandering Scrivener on Substack.