24 Best Places to Visit in Kathmandu, Nepal
Discover the best places to visit in Kathmandu, Nepal, including Thamel, Durbar Square, Garden of Dreams, Swayambhunath Stupa, Kathesimbu Stupa, and much more. This travel guide includes tips on places you must-visit on your first visit to Kathmandu.
Kathmandu is a city with soul, dotted with an endless number of stupas, temples, local markets, streets are lined with shops of all kinds, same as by eateries and coffee shops. It is easy to get lost there in a couple of days without actually seeing any of its top sights - this is how captivating Kathmandu is.
What was our idea before writing this post on the best places to visit in Kathmandu?
Usually, when traveling to a new city or country, we want to go deeper. Still, at the same time, we like to see all the must-visit sights together with minor attractions that sometimes take only a few minutes of our time.
Our hobby is to pin all those spots on a map, and then we navigate around the city and erase places we've already visited.
This detailed travel guide includes the best places a traveler should visit in Kathmandu - the more time you have, the more spots you'll be able to see.
Fortunately, most of Kathmandu's top attractions are well-accessible on foot and close to each other.
To reach places that are further away, consider taking a local bus, which is an adventure on own, or calling a cab. The rule of thumb is to agree on a price before you jump in.
VISITING KATHMANDU FOR THE FIRST TIME
Just after we left the arrival hall of Kathmandu's airport, we immediately felt the overwhelming buzz of this bustling capital city of Nepal.
Kathmandu is a vibrant city in Nepal covered with smog, dust, loud horn honking is coming from every direction. Various smells are wafting from food stalls along the road, but this is exactly the vibe we love about Asia.
Pedestrians don't have any rights here, so be always alert, and don't assume that cars will yield to you when crossing the road. Motorbikes are allowed to drive almost everywhere in the city, even in the narrowest streets, and will leave you covered in the dust behind.
Kathmandu was hit by a strong earthquake of 7.8 magnitudes (several aftershocks began immediately after the initial quake) back in April 2015 as other areas in Nepal, and you can still see remnants of its destructive power.
But, Nepal's people are working hard to restore streets and houses, and Kathmandu certainly has its appeal for first-time travelers. If this is your first time in Kathmandu, get inspired by our list of best places to visit.
We've put together the top attractions and must-see sights. In case you have more time and are interested in activities that a traveler can do even outside the city limits, check out our post Best things to do in Kathmandu.
THAMEL
It is impossible to start the must-visit list of Nepal's capital without mentioning Thamel, the most popular tourist area packed with hotels, restaurants, street vendors, and small shops.
We spent a night here after our arrival and stayed a few more after coming back from Annapurna Circuit.
Thamel is safe (use your common sense, though). The area is slowly changing. It even became a no-go zone for vehicles since October 2017, so the visit should be more pleasant for pedestrians.
Visiting Thamel is about the atmosphere.
Wander around the streets, forget about the noise, get lost, and you'll soon find yourself in a different world with a traditional way of life that is not that obvious at first sight. Explore abandoned alleys, hidden temples with unique architecture.
DURBAR SQUARE
Durbar Square is undoubtedly the most popular attraction in Kathmandu. This must-visit place is a UNESCO designated area since 1979, which is now recovering from the 2015 earthquake. The entrance fee for foreign visitors is 1000 NPR, and the increased fee should go to the square's restoration.
To be honest, visiting Durbar Square two years after the earthquake, we expected it to be in a better state already, so we can only hope the Nepali government will work hard to restore it.
Upon arrival, you will get a map at the counter, which shows the sights structural damage; green color means the building is in good condition, red means it's barely standing, or it is gone, yellow is something in between.
The dominant colors on the map are red and yellow.
Despite this fact, Durbar Square is still a must-see in Kathmandu.
It is a complex of palaces, statues, temples, shrines, and detailed frescoes. You can walk around the old city by yourself or hire a local guide; just be aware of scams and make sure your guide is the licensed one.
A short walk from Durbar Square is a food market with oriental spices, dried fishes, veggies, fruits, and meat.
JAGANNATH TEMPLE
Another temple you cannot miss during your wanderings around Kathmandu's Durbar Square is Jagannath Temple, which is a significant building for many reasons.
The painting covers exterior walls, the unusual two-story appearance, or its old age (this structure is more than 400 years old) add to the fact that this shrine is easily the best place to see in Kathmandu.
BASANTAPUR TOWER
Another highlight that stands on Durbar Square, Basantapur Tower, was badly damaged during the 2015 earthquake. Still, fortunately, the building was restored, and nowadays, visitors can admire the exterior and the interior.
This 9-story building comes from the 18th century, and it will immediately catch your attention.
Although you have to walk the narrow staircase to reach the top of the tower, it is well worth it, and your reward will be the view of the square and historical buildings from above.
TALEJU TEMPLE
The very center of Durbar Square is taken by Taleju Temple, one of the most prominent buildings in Kathmandu. The temple has an unusual floor plan, and it was dedicated to the Goddess of Malla kings, Devi Taleju Bhawani.
Since time immortal was the entrance restricted to kings, but nowadays, not even Hindu people can enter the shrine, except for a few days in the year.
Visitors must be grateful for the opportunity to admire this temple from outside.
HANUMAN DHOKA TEMPLE
Kathmandu's Durbar Square is a display of many ancient temples, statues, and smaller squares that it is often hard to focus on each site individually. If there's only one attraction you cannot miss, it is Hanuman Dhoka Temple.
The oldest part of the temple dates back to the 16th century and is one of the most important structures in the Royal Palace that was once the seat of Malla kings and the Shah dynasty.
The statue of Hanuman guards the entrance to the palace, and you cannot overlook it because it is also a popular photo spot.
By the way, dhoka means doors in the local language. Withing Hanuman Dhoka Temple are many more notable places, such as Kala Bhairav, a large colorful idol or Tribhuvan Museum.
SETO MACHINDRANATH TEMPLE
The center of Kathmandu often feels like a maze that is packed with top sights and attraction, that it is often easy to overlook hidden gems even though they are in the very heart of the city.
This is exactly the case of Seto Machindranath Temple. This temple was founded in the 10th century and is easily recognizable for its golden roof.
PATAN
Although Kathmandu's Durbar Square is the most famous one, every traveler should know there are actually three Durbar Squares in the Kathmandu Valley. In general, Durbar is called a square in front of a royal seat.
Back in the days, Kathmandu consisted of three separate kingdoms. Kathmandu itself (also known as Basantapur), Patan (Lalitpur), and Bhaktapur.
Patan is only about 15 minutes drive from the center of Kathmandu, and you'll find here a traditional village where you can buy handicrafts, but also an ancient square lined with statues, palaces, temples, and other old buildings that hold many exhibitions.
BHAKTAPUR
If you want to visit Durbar Square but stay away from crowds simultaneously, visit Durbar Square in Bhaktapur. The site is about 45 minutes by transport from Thamel, but if you do not have enough ancient architecture, this is undoubtedly a place to go.
Interestingly, Bhaktapur was back in times the largest Newari kingdom out of those three located in Kathmandu Valley.
If you want to visit all three Durbar Squares and save time, check out this well-rated tour Durbar Squares Tour that includes transport, guide, and entrance fees.
GARDEN OF DREAMS
Created in the 1920s and recently renovated, this lush green complex is almost unreal and something you would not expect to find in the dust-filled Kathmandu.
Garden of Dreams is a place where you can relax after a long day walking around the buzzing city. The garden is full of well-dressed locals and tourists, and it seems like it doesn't even belong to Kathmandu.
High walls separate this oasis from busy streets. For a small fee, you can walk around, sit on the lawn and just relax and admire beautiful flowers, fountains, neoclassical pavilions, and amphitheaters.
ROYAL BOTANICAL GARDENS
If you enjoyed your time in the Garden of Dreams, then you'll have a blast in Royal Botanical Gardens. It is a large area where you can totally unwind - it is not a bad idea to visit this place before your flight back home.
The garden can be busier during the weekend, but weekdays are usually very pleasant.
Royal Botanical Gardens shows the variety of Nepal's flora. Although this botanical garden is 14 kilometers from the center, it is worth the drive, and we think it definitely belongs on the Kathmandu must-visit list.
NARAYANHITI PALACE
Not that far from Thamel is located Narayanhiti Palace, which was once one of the most important buildings in Kathmandu as it was a seat of monarchs.
But after the turbulent revolution, this extraordinary construction with many meeting rooms and representative offices turned into a museum.
Although the palace is wonderful from the outside, if time allows, consider visiting the museum as the collection of beautiful furniture and paintings is worth your time.
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF NEPAL
National Museum of Nepal, also known as Chhauni Museum, is a complex of buildings that hold various exhibits where you can find artifacts significant to Nepal's history.
If the weather does not play along or you are a history buff, make sure you have several hours dedicated to the visit because it takes time to walk through all the sections that cover everything from coins, weapons to Nepal's flora and fauna.
SWAYAMBHUNATH STUPA
One of the must-visit places and a worthwhile stop on every Kathmandu itinerary is Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as Monkey Temple. This stupa is a religious building that sits atop a hill overlooking Kathmandu and Kathmandu Valley.
Although most travelers take a taxi, we decided to walk for an hour to the stupa, which gave us a precious insight into how life goes by in the suburbs.
We had to cross the Bagmati River, which is considered holy, but the part we could see was rather disgusting.
There are 365 stairs to the stupa, and you must pay the fee at the booth almost at the top. The temple did not get its nickname by accident, so be careful as obtrusive monkeys are everywhere, especially if you have food in your backpack.
From the top, you can admire widespread Kathmandu when it's clear. Still, Kathmandu is, unfortunately, very often covered in haze and smog.
The most significant attractions on the top are Buddha, prayer wheels, and many stupas connected by prayer flags.
Travel Insurance
We never leave home without travel insurance that was designed to cover our expenses if something goes wrong during the trip.
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World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers to cover their trip essentials, including sports and adventure activities.
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WHITE MONASTERY
Close to Swayambhunath Stupa and also entirely overshadowed by its more famous neighbor is White Monastery, known as Amitabha Monastery. Because of its location, the monastery offers a wonderful view over Kathmandu Valley.
The surrounding nature provides visitors with a very peaceful experience.
The best time to visit the White monastery is during the sunrise or sunset when the light is soft. The monastery is an important Buddhism center, so except for the regular sightseeing, prepare yourself for a very calming visit.
PASHUPATINATH TEMPLE
Kathmandu is a city with a large number of important religious buildings. Still, Pashupatinath Temple is not renowned only in the capital, but in the whole country.
This complex is also in UNESCO and is dedicated to Nepal's national deity, God Shiva.
The entire complex is opened only for Hindu people; tourists can see only a few parts for a fee (1000 NPR). The site is famous for the rituals that go many centuries back, which is quite fascinating.
If you want to get an unobscured view, walk across the river - this is also a place where you can see spiritual ceremonies from a distance.
This temple is one of the most photogenic places in the city; entering inside feels like stepping back in time, so make sure you dress respectfully, and if you want to take a portrait of a local, always ask for permission.
If you are looking for a more memorable experience, we recommend you to visit the temple in the late afternoon, around 6:30 PM, when you can see a captivating Aarti ceremony.
BOUDHANATH STUPA
One of the most religious structures in Kathmandu is a bit away from the center, but it definitely deserves your attention.
Boudhanath Stupa belongs among Nepal's largest stupas, and its exceptionality was confirmed by putting this site on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The area around this architecture is vivacious - it is because of the mix of tourists and locals who come here to pray, and we could quickly understand why this place is so popular.
Nepal is a spiritual country, so do not feel shy and circumnavigate the stupa the same way locals do. It is believed that when you do it without any bad thoughts, you'll receive good karma.
KATHESIMBU STUPA
Not far from Thamel, we found a small hidden square where we lost all the tourists, so we just sat there and observed the local life.
We discovered this peaceful gem in otherwise busy Kathmandu on our way to Durbar Square. In the center of the square is monumental Kathesimbu Stupa with typical Nepali eyes, a symbol you will see very often in this country.
You will find several smaller stupas surrounding the main one and a Buddhist temple in the square corner. Locals come to pray here and feed pigeons, grab your camera in hand, and enjoy the atmosphere.
WHERE TO STAY IN KATHMANDU
Kathmandu is a sprawling city, but most travelers look for accommodation in only one district, Thamel.
Although it is for sure, a good idea to stay away from crowds, we found Thamel perfect. It was an excellent location for arranging stuff before the Annapurna Circuit hike.
Still, most of the must-visit sights were mostly within walking distance, which we appreciated.
Here's a list of the best hotels in Kathmandu for every type of traveler. Rooms in Nepal are very cheap, so this time, you can even stay in a nicer hotel and still pay a very reasonable amount.
Budget | Hotel Dali Nepal - If you look for cheap accommodation, this hostel might be exactly what you want. The rooms are clean, and the service for the price is perfect.
Mid-range | Kathmandu Grand Hotel - Great value for money, perfect location, clean rooms, and tasty buffet breakfast is worth it.
Luxury | Baber Mahal Vilas - This hotel is a real luxury in the very heart of Kathmandu. If you want to disconnect from the busy outside streets, check out the rooms' photos - they look stunning.
BUDHANILKANTHA TEMPLE
Budhanilkantha Temple is an open-air temple in the Kathmandu Valley, only a short ride from Kathmandu itself. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, whose reclining statue can also be found on the spot.
This temple is situated at the foothill of Shivapuri Hill.
One of the biggest features is a statue that is considered the biggest stone carving in Nepal. The site is accessible all-year-round but the best time to visit is during the festival season, which is October and November.
AKASH BHAIRAV TEMPLE
Akash Bhairav, also nicknamed Sky Temple, is only steps away from the main market area, and its wonderful facade will surely strike you.
One of the things we loved the most in Kathmandu was that no matter which direction we decided to walk from our hostel, there was always something new and unexpected.
We could be walking around the market and, within a minute, end up photographing a temple that looks like from a different century.
KOPAN MONASTERY
Kopan Monastery is maybe not the most traditional place to visit in Kathmandu, but if you have more than one day for exploring the capital, it is worth taking a taxi to this complex that is only 20 minutes' drive away. The monastery was founded in the 1960s.
Except for admiring nicely decorated buildings and wandering around the garden, it is also a place to study Buddhism. More interested people can even stay here for several days and attend a course.
DAKSHINKALI TEMPLE
Kathmandu Valley is dotted with many villages. If you decide to explore Pharping, some 20 kilometers from the city center of Kathmandu, make sure you also visit Dakshinkali Temple that dates back to the mid-19th century and was devoted to Goddess Kali.
Even today is the site connected with many rituals, and offerings still take place here.
Pharping is well-connected with Kathmandu, you can take a bus, and from the bus station it is less than 1 kilometer to the shrine, but it is surely more convenient to take a taxi.
KAISER LIBRARY
A beautiful whitewashed building that contains thousands of books, unfortunately, got a major hit by the recent most devastating earthquake, and it lost its appeal, although it is now possible to visit its ground floor.
That does not change the fact this library is a center of education and wisdom.
You can pin it to your map - we believe chances are high to see it on your quest to see the best places in Kathmandu.
LOCAL MARKETS
Nepal is famous for its scents and intoxicating smells. If you want to get a really authentic experience, and at the same time, you want to find one of the most photogenic places in Kathmandu, make sure you visit at least one market.
The best market in Kathmandu popular both among locals and travelers is Asan Tole, located on the eponymous street.
You can find here literally everything from clothes, food, spices to jewelry. The busiest part of the market is close to the Indra Chowk area.
Travel Resources
Here you can find links to all the travel resources we use and which you might find helpful when planning your next holiday.
Accommodation: When looking for accommodation, we usually search hotels via Booking.com or Hostelworld.
Tours: Although we love to travel independently, some places are better to visit with a guided tour.
We prefer GetYourGuide for its easy-to-use interface and solid reputation. Another great alternative is Viator.
Rental Cars: When going on a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com, a reliable site for booking a rental car in advance.
Flight Tickets: When looking for flight tickets, you can search Skyscanner to find the best price.
Travel Insurance: World Nomads and SafetyWing cover against risks of travel.
