Kathmandu Traveler Essentials
- 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.
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.
Local etiquette
Greet with palms together and a slight bow ('namaste'). Walk clockwise around stupas and temples, and remove shoes and leather items before entering shrines. Never touch anyone's head, point your feet at people or sacred objects, or touch offerings; use your right hand for giving and receiving, and ask permission before photographing people or ceremonies.
Safety
Generally safe for tourists. Thamel tourist district is well-monitored. Traffic is chaotic and air quality can be poor — bring a dust mask for walking in busy streets. Tap water is unsafe — drink bottled or filtered only. Altitude (1,400m) is mild but drink plenty of water.