Kathmandu
Nepal
- Safety rating
- 7/10
- Best time to visit
- October to November for clearest skies and best mountain views — the premier trekking season. March to May is second best. June to September is monsoon season. December to January is cold but clear and uncrowded.
- Population
- 1.5M
Overview
Kathmandu is the chaotic, enchanting, altitude-affected gateway to the Himalayas. A valley city of ancient stupas, medieval squares, incense-thick temple courtyards, and trekking equipment shops stacked alongside centuries-old monasteries. Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath cremation ghats are extraordinary Hindu-Buddhist sacred sites.
Top attractions
Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, Patan Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Thamel district, Garden of Dreams, Kopan Monastery, Kirtipur
Getting around
Taxis and Pathao (ride-hailing app) navigate the congested streets. The micro-vans (shared minibuses) are cheap and authentic. Walking is the only way to explore the medieval Durbar Squares. Renting a bicycle is popular for Bhaktapur and surrounding villages.