Looking for the best places to visit in Kathmandu, Nepal? I’ve got you! This list will cover the best things to do in Kathmandu as well as can’t miss sights and places to see. From temples to soundbaths to markets, here are the top places to visit in Kathmandu!
You never know what to expect from a capital city, do you?
They’re often loud and bustling – a place to transit through to get to your “real” destination. Typically, they’re not a highlight to remember on your travels.
But, Kathmandu was different.
Yes, it is busy and bursting with life. Vibrant colors pop from every corner, deafening street sounds and pumping music fill your ears, and the smell of street foods wafts in the air.
However, Kathmandu was one of the best places in Nepal to dig deeper into the cultural sights and traditions. It is one-thousand-percent worth spending a few days here to explore all of the best things to do and places to visit in Kathmandu.
In fact, Kathmandu offers a lot of cultural experiences that can’t be found anywhere else in Nepal. Here are the best places to visit in Kathmandu that you need to see on your trip!
Nepal Quick Links
- Best Kathmandu Hotel: The Kumari Boutique Hotel in Thamel.
- Best Kathmandu Tour: Book the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu to see many of the top-rated sights around the city!
- Best Nepal Tour: If you want to see it all, this 10-day Adventure Tour visits three of my favorite areas in Nepal: Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan.
- Book your transfer from Kathmandu’s international airport before you travel!
- Book a Rental Car in Kathmandu if you have more time to explore Nepal.
- 5 Nepal Travel Essentials: a lightweight scarf; a wide brim hat; a reusable water bottle; a plug converter; a pair of loose palazzo pants.
17 Best Things To Do and Places To Visit in Kathmandu
Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is like nowhere else in the country.
You will simultaneously be forced to squeeze between never-ending cars and tuk-tuks while heading to a spiritual soundbath. Construction, thumping music, honking horns, and the chatter of people is unending.
And while it may sound (and sometimes feel) like a lot, Kathmandu is definitely worth a visit. A stop here to explore the cultural sights and central hubs will allow you a deeper understanding of the people and traditions of Nepal.
Kathmandu is one of those cities that gets skipped by tourists rushing to escape on their trekking adventure. But that is a mistake!
Here are the can’t miss cultural sights and places to visit in Kathmandu, Nepal.
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1. Swayambunath Stupa
Swayambunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, is one of the most popular places to visit in Kathmandu. In fact, it is the most popular temple in all of Nepal – and with good reason!
Swayambhunath Stupa, one of several UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu, sits on a tall hill overlooking the Kathmandu Valley. It is an easy 15 minute ride west of downtown Kathmandu.
To reach the overlook pictured above, visitors will need to climb 365 stairs to the temple grounds. Partway up the stairs, you will be asked to pay an entrance fee of 200 Rupees.
But once you reach the top, the panoramic views and colorful temples, golden stupa, and bustle of worshippers makes it well worth the effort.
Some shrines and temples date back to over 1,500 years ago. You’ll see monkeys climb and play around the main stupa, hence the nickname “Monkey Temple.”
Pro Tip: If you don’t plan to rent a scooter or hire a taxi, you can also visit Swayambhunath Stupa as part of a larger UNESCO World Heritage Site Tour. This tour visits the following sites: Swyambhunath Stupa, Bouddhanath Stupa, Pashupathinath Temple, and all three Durbar Squares listed in this article.
All of these sites are featured on this best places to visit in Kathmandu list, so you will get the most bang for your buck on a tour rather than hiring multiple taxis. Bonus, you’ll learn the local history and traditions at each of these spots. BOOK YOUR UNESCO SITE TOUR HERE!
2. Amideva Buddha Park
A short distance from the more famous Swayambunath Temple is the quieter, but no less impressive Amideva Buddha Park. You need to add this to your Nepal Bucket List!
The colorful park was built in 2003 and features several giant gold statues and plenty of colorful, ornate alters and monuments.
The three Buddha statues represent varying sentiments:
The central statue of Shakyamuni Buddha measures 67 feet tall and is associated with longevity. He holds a giant bowl in his hands contains the nectar of immortality.
To the left is the 64 foot tall Chenrezig – or, the one who ‘looks with unwavering eye.” He is depicted with many arms which he uses to help those in need.
Fun fact, The Dalai Lama is considered an incarnation of Chenrezig.
Lastly, also at 64 feet tall, is Guru Rinpoche, or The Precious Master. A fully enlightened being, he is a keeper of primordial wisdom.
Around the statues are small prayer wheels, an ornate stupa, one enormous prayer wheel, colorful artwork and many statues. It is easy to wander for a long time here, and is equally as beautiful as better known temples.
Pro Tip: This park is completely free to enter, so don’t fall for scams! It is much less busy than other nearby sites, but even more ornate. Don’t skip it!
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3. Boudhanath Stupa
Another stop on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu Tour is the famous Boudhanath Stupa.
This Buddhist prayer site features a tall white stupa similar to the one at Monkey Temple. However, the grounds and vibe couldn’t be more different.
The grand spiritual complex has many different statues and interior spaces to walk through. It stands tall in the middle of busy Kathmandu and has several sites worth noting.
The large Chokhor prayer wheel is said to be the largest in the city. Walk around the white stupa clockwise to clear your chakras. And, enjoy tasty restaurants and shops around the complex.
The entrance fee of 400 Rupees is steep, but it goes towards the site’s maintenance. Plan to spend a couple of hours here to fully explore the stupa, the temple, and the grounds.
Pro Tip: If you plan to visit all of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu, consider booking this tour. It is six hours long and visits Boudhanath Stupa, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupathinath Temple, and Swyambhunath Stupa. BOOK YOUR UNESCO SITE TOUR HERE!
4. Pashupatinath Temple
Pashupatinath Temple was one of the last places I visited in Kathmandu, but it was easily one of the most powerful.
This temple is the most sacred Hindu temples in Nepal, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It was built as far back as the 5th century and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site today.
While non-Hindus are not allowed to enter the inner courtyard, there is plenty to explore on the surrounding grounds. Smaller temples and shrines are everywhere, some ornate and new and others ancient.
Visitors can also visit the bank of the Bagmati River, where Hindu cremations and burials take place. It is a deeply spiritual place and the feeling is almost palpable in the air.
I did not think it right to take any photographs of the cremation ceremonies, but the photo above features families preparing colorful decorations for just such occasions.
If you want to learn more about the many corners of this temple complex, this is another stop on the previously mentioned UNESCO World Heritage Site Tour. Your guide can explain many things that would be lost to a solo tourist at Pashupatinath Temple.
Pro Tip: If you prefer something different, consider an evening tour. You will experience an Aarati ceremony performed by sadhus, the brightly-robed Hindu monks, and purjaris, or Hindu priests. You will learn so much through this experience – I highly recommend! BOOK YOUR ARATI CEREMONY TOUR HERE!
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5. The Garden of Dreams
While Kathmandu is an amazing city to explore, it is also filled with endless dust and noise, constant crowds, and lots of pollution.
The Garden of Dreams is the perfect peaceful, oasis-like escape. Inside, you’ll find a small stretch green grass, trickling fountains and colorful flowers.
Built by Field Marshal Kaiser Shumsher Rana, this beautiful garden was originally known as the ‘garden of six seasons.’ It was inspired by the Mughal gardens in India and was designed with a fusion of classical European and Asian styles.
While the garden was neglected for many years and fell into disrepair, it has since been restored to its former glory. It is now one of the most popular places to visit in Kathmandu for those seeking tranquility and beauty.
The entrance fee is 400 Rupees.
6. Patan Durbar Square
The ancient Buddhist city of Patan is just 15 minutes from downtown Kathmandu.
Though Patan Durbar Square is the smallest of the three durbar squares in Kathmandu, it is arguably the most beautiful.
Patan, the surrounding area, is covered with hundreds of courtyards, statues, and temples scattered around the interconnecting streets. You may be lucky enough to view craftsmen making their goods along the streets or to view the heritage sites for prayer.
I spent an afternoon here exploring, and eating a snack atop one of the old structures. It almost feels like you are transported back in time here. And, yes – the UNESCO tour mentioned above does in fact stop here.
Note that there is a 1000 rupee entrance fee for Patan Durbar Square. This includes entrance into the Patan museum, as well.
Pro Tip: Kathmandu is dusty. Don’t forget to bring quality face masks to protect your lungs! Locals and tourists alike wear masks as they walk or ride scooters outside, because some days the dust and smog can be unbearable. Get yours here!
7. Bhaktapur Durbar Square
Once the capital of Nepal in the 15th century, this ancient city is fun to explore for the culture, temples and craftwork.
Bhaktapur is well known for producing ceramic pottery, puppets, handicrafts, and much more. If you plan to buy any souvenirs in Nepal, this is one of the best places to do so.
While Bhaktapur Durbar square was affected by the 2015 earthquake, most of the older temples are completely restored. So, you can get a feel for what this area looked like ages ago.
The entrance fee for Bhaktapur Durbar Square is 1800 Rupees.
Pro Tip: Want to visit Patan Durbar Square, Kathmandu Durbar Square, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square with no stress? All three Durbar Squares are included on the UNESCO World Heritage Site Tour!
Other stops include Swyambhunath Stupa, Bouddhanath Stupa, and Pashupathinath Temple. Your guide will teach you the local history and traditions at each of these spots. BOOK YOUR UNESCO SITE TOUR HERE!
8. Kathmandu Durbar Square
Upon visiting Kathmandu Durbar Square, the first thing you may notice is grid-like scaffolding covering some of the ornate architecture. This is due to the aftermath of the 2015 earthquake, from which you can still see the damage today.
Despite the scaffolding, Durbar Square is one of the top places to visit in Kathmandu.
Filled with worshiping locals, goods of all kinds, and ancient temples, this is a vibrant, living part of Kathmandu.
The square was used for royal ceremonies as recently as 2001. Today, this square is used for official religious ceremonies, including that of the Kumari, who will be talked about below.
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9. Experience a Soundbath
As you walk around Kathmandu, particularly the Thamel area, you will see several shops along the way filled with singing bowls made of metal and glass.
Nepal traditions are steeped in spirituality, and while you are here, you should take part in a soundbath.
Soundbaths are when you stand or lie in a quit room, and the loud vibrations of the singing bowls surround you and fill your mind and body.
Pro Tip: I tried several times to join a soundbath in the Thamel area on a walk-in basis, and each time it was a flop. Many shops may not open following their advertised hours. Very frustrating, I know!
Avoid the confusion and waste of time by booking a soundbath ahead of time. The Golden Temple Healing Center is about 10 minutes from Thamel and it will save you tons of headaches to pre-book your session. Trust me. BOOK YOUR SOUNDBATH HERE!
10. Learn To Cook Nepali Food
If you like to learn how to cook the traditional foods from the countries you visit (like me), then you need to take a private cooking class in Kathmandu!
You can sign up for a morning, afternoon, or evening class, and come hungry – this meal will serve as your breakfast, lunch, or dinner for the day. Expect to cook dal bhat or traditional momos, though four menus are available to choose from.
Currently in my kitchen sit the spices from dal bhat as I wait to cook the dish for my friend and neighbor.
BOOK YOUR PRIVATE COOKING CLASS HERE!
11. Thamel
Thamel is one of the best places for first-time visitors to situate themselves.
Firstly, a lot of the sights on this list are either walkable from Thamel or easily reached via tour, taxi, or scooter.
Secondly, you are a stone’s throw away from various restaurants and cafes, where you can find and endless supply of Nepali dal bhat, Tibetan food, street food, and much more.
Thamel is quite busy though, so don’t come here expecting peace and quiet! One day during my visit, a public holiday made the streets almost unwalkable dur to car, tuk-tuk, and foot traffic.
Nonetheless, the souvenir-filled markets, great restaurants, nightlife, hostels, and more make this one of the best places to visit in Kathmandu.
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12. Catch a Glimpse of the Kumari
The Kumari, known as the living goddess, is a revered figure in Nepalese culture.
The Kumari is selected from a group of young girls who exhibit certain qualities such as pureness, unblemished skin, and a peaceful disposition. Once chosen, the Kumari undergoes many rituals and is worshipped as a living goddess.
This respected tradition has been around for centuries and is still held in high regard today.
Visitors to Kathmandu can attempt to witness the Kumari’s presence at her palace in Durbar Square, where she sometimes appears at her window to bless those who seek her audience. Rumor has it that the best chance to see her is between 4pm-5pm, after her studies.
It is not guaranteed that she will appear, and she did not look out at us on my visit, unfortunately. Note that photos are strictly forbidden if she does in fact look out the window.
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13. Nagarkot Sunrise View and Day Hiking from Kathmandu
Though technically a bit outside of the city, this is one of the top tours from Kathmandu. I highly recommend it for anyone who loves to get outdoors and doesn’t mind a gorgeous sweeping view.
During this full day hiking trip, you’ll watch the colorful sunrise at the village of Nagarkot, and enjoy panoramic views across the Kathmandu Valley.
Enjoy the backdrop of the Himalayas on the 4-hour hike. You’ll pass through the small villages that are home to the Brahmin, Newars, and Tamang people. You’ll also get to explore the Nagarkot Buddha Peace Park and the Changu Narayan Temple (another UNESCO World Heritage Site.)
This tour also includes a guide, lunch, and all transportation to and from Kathmandu.
BOOK YOUR NAGARKOT HIKING TOUR HERE!
Pro Tip: Check out my trekking gear guide if you plan to do any hiking in Nepal, regardless of the length. This list will lay out all the gear you should pack!
14. Kopan Monastery
Nestled in the hills surrounding Kathmandu, the Kopan Monastery offers a serene escape from the city below.
Established in 1975, the monastery is a center for study and practice of Tibetan Buddhism. Visitors can attend daily prayers and meditation sessions, or take part in one of the many retreats offered throughout the year.
The stunning architecture of the monastery, complete with intricate murals and traditional Tibetan artwork, provides a glimpse into the vibrant culture of Nepal.
For those seeking a deeper understanding of Buddhism or simply a peaceful retreat, the Kopan Monastery is a must-visit destination in Kathmandu.
Pro Tip: Check out my guide on what to wear in Nepal if you want to be prepared for temples and monasteries. The general idea is modesty and comfort. Get more info here!
15. Take a Flight Over Mount Everest
though it’s admittedly expensive, a flight over Mount Everest is a once in a lifetime experience!
If you fly on a clear day, you can see all across the majestic Himalayan mountain range and fly above the mighty Mount Everest! The colors are spectacular and it looks almost surreal
Pick up and drop off from your Kathmandu accommodations are provided. The flight departs from Kathmandu’s international airport and expect an earl morning departure, though exact take-off is determined by the day’s weather.
Learn more about the seasons in Nepal here!
This is a great experience for anyone looking to tick off a big ticket item from their Kathmandu bucket list. I especially recommend it if you will not be doing any trekking while visiting Nepal.
BOOK YOUR EVEREST FLIGHT HERE!
16. Day Trip to Kirtipur
If you want to get out of the city and see some sights in the greater Kathmandu Valley, then this private guided tour may just be for you.
First, you will visit the medieval city of Kirtipur and its Chobhar Caves. It is a very different experience than Pokhara’s Gupteshwor Cave, indeed!
Enjoy the monastery-rich town of Pharping and view several ornate temples, like the Shikha Narayan temple. Learn about Nepal’s rich heritage and culture on this excursion, with door-to-door round-trip private transport from Kathandu.
17. Take a Nighttime Rickshaw Tour
One experience that I highly recommend is to explore Kathmandu at night.
I was traveling Nepal solo, and while Nepal is very safe, I can certainly understand if you do not feel comfortable exploring alone at night.
The answer for this is taking a nighttime rickshaw tour!
The tour begins in early evening and lasts about 2.5 hours. You will have ample time to hop on and off if you see souvenirs or street food that you have to try. And, your guide will expertly weave you through the busy Thamel and Ason areas, where the night comes alive.
If you’ve already seen the best places to visit in Kathmandu, or just want to see them lit up in bright lights at night, then definitely give this a try.
BOOK YOUR NIGHTTIME RICKSHAW TOUR HERE!
Where To Stay in Kathmandu, Nepal
Top Budget Hotel
For anyone traveling on a budget, but who want more than a dorm bed, I highly recommend the Kathmandu Eco Hotel. It is found in the heart of Thamel, and is walking distance from some of the best restaurants, shops, and sights.
You can choose form several different room types, some including breakfast at their restaurant next door.
Pro Tip: There are two hotels in Kathmandu with similar names. To be sure you book the right one, be sure to book through this link!
Top Mid-Range Hotel
If you want to step up your hotel game, check out the Kumari Boutique Hotel in Thamel.
They have everything you could want here, like air conditioning, Wifi, room service, and parking. But what makes this place special is the high-end feel of the beautifully decorated rooms without the wallet-busting price.
And, they are close to some of the top sights on this list, like Kathmandu Durbar Square and the Garden of Dreams.
Top High End Hotel
If you want luxury-meets-classic-Kathmandu, then The Dwarika’s Hotel is for you! Situated close to Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa, this hotel is a bit outside of busy Thamel.
What makes this hotel extra special goes beyond the clean and modern rooms. It features an extensive collection of artifacts from the 13th century inside the traditional building, and is the winner of the Pacific Asia Travel Association Heritage Award.
It is also one of the few hotels in Kathmandu with an outdoor pool, which will be a blessing in the hotter months.
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I hope that this guide on the best places to visit has inspired your future trip! There are so any great things to do in Kathmandu and so much to explore.
If you need more helpful tips on Nepal, check out my other articles below!
Need More Nepal Travel Inspiration? Check Out These Resources.
- Is Nepal Safe for Solo Female Travel?
- What To Wear in Nepal for Women
- 17 Best Places To Visit in Kathmandu, Nepal
- A Chitwan Jungle Safari Travel Guide & Review
- A Complete Nepal Trekking Packing List
- 11 Things I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Nepal
- Paragliding in Pokhara – A Can’t Miss Adventure
- Seasons in Nepal & the Best Time to Visit
- Is Nepal Worth Visiting? 10 Reasons To Go
- A Nepal Travel Guide
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