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Picture of Kathmandu, Nepal

Travel Guide for
Kathmandu

Nepal

Subtropical highland, mild winters

Introduction

Kathmandu, nestled in a scenic valley surrounded by the Himalayan foothills, is Nepal’s vibrant capital and cultural heart. With a history spanning thousands of years, the city is dotted with colorful temples, ancient palaces, and UNESCO sites like Durbar Square and Swayambhunath.

Visiting in mid-October means enjoying comfortable, dry weather with clear blue skies—perfect for both sightseeing and setting up your laptop at a sunny café. Kathmandu’s lively coffeehouses, affordable guesthouses, and fast-growing coworking spaces make it ideal for digital nomads seeking inspiration and connection. Don’t miss the lively markets, warm local hospitality, and the chance to hike or cycle just outside the city.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleDigital nomad

Dates17-24 October 2025

BudgetAverage budget

AccommodationHotel

Interests and Activities:

arts and culturefestivals and eventsgastronomysightseeing and toursoutdoor adventuresvolunteeringnightlife and entertainment

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Picture of Kathmandu, Nepal

Key Facts

Location

Bagmati Province, Central Nepal

Currency

Nepalese Rupee (NPR)

Religion

Hinduism

Population

1,500,000

Language

Nepali, Newari, English

Electricity

230V, 50 Hz, Types C/D/M

Time zone

UTCNPT (UTC+5.75)

Country code

+977

Internet access

Broadband, 4G widespread, affordable

Climate

Subtropical highland, mild winters

Language:

Nepali

  • hello

    नमस्ते (na-mas-te)
  • goodbye

    विदाई (bi-da-ee)
  • yes

    हो (ho)
  • no

    होइन (hoi-na)
  • how much

    कति पर्छ? (ka-ti par-chha)
  • please

    कृपया (kri-pa-ya)
  • thank you

    धन्यवाद (dha-nya-baad)
  • excuse me

    माफ गर्नुहोस् (maf gar-nu-hos)

Map

Logistics

Kathmandu is most easily reached by air, with Tribhuvan International Airport serving direct flights from Asia, the Middle East, and some European cities. For digital nomads on an average budget, it’s best to book in advance and consider budget airlines with stopovers in hubs like Delhi or Bangkok. Overland travel via buses from India is also possible, though slower and less comfortable.

There are no trains or boats directly to Kathmandu. From October 17 to 24, weather is usually pleasant and dry, making travel easier, though airport delays can sometimes occur due to air traffic or Kathmandu’s valley fog. Upon arrival, budget taxis and shuttle buses offer easy transfers to the city center and coworking spaces.

Weather

Kathmandu experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (May–August) are warm and humid, brought by the monsoon, while winters (December–February) are cool and relatively dry. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather, making them the best times to visit.

From October 17 to October 24, Kathmandu enjoys mild, sunny days and cool nights, with daytime highs around 22°C (72°F) and lows near 10°C (50°F). Heavy rainfall or extreme weather is unlikely during this period. This is a popular time for sightseeing, cultural festivals, and outdoor adventures.

Food & Drink

Kathmandu’s cuisine is flavorful and diverse, with must-try dishes like momos (dumplings), dal bhat (lentil soup, rice, and curry), and sel roti (rice doughnut). Local tea (chai) and the famous Nepali beer are popular drinks. For vegetarian and vegan travelers, there are plenty of options, especially in Thamel.

Great places to eat include OR2K, a popular vegetarian spot, and Places Restaurant & Bar, both in Thamel. For authentic momo, try Momo Hut or Yangling. Coffee lovers will enjoy Himalayan Java, while Social Café is a favorite for coworking and casual bites.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; leaving around 5-10% is common. During festivals, some places may offer special menus, and tap water is not safe to drink—choose bottled or filtered water.

Accommodation

For digital nomads on an average budget, Thamel is the go-to neighborhood, packed with reliable Wi-Fi, cafés, and mid-range hotels. Popular options like Hotel Mulberry and Oasis Kathmandu Hotel blend comfort with convenience, offering work-friendly spaces. Nearby, the quieter Lazimpat area features boutique picks such as Hotel Ambassador and Kantipur Village Hotel.

For bookings, sites like Booking.com and Agoda offer competitive rates and guest reviews. During October 17–24, Kathmandu celebrates Dashain, Nepal’s biggest festival. Book your hotel in advance, as spots fill quickly and prices may rise. Wherever you stay, check reviews for workspace suitability and Wi-Fi reliability to ensure a productive trip.

Itinerary

Ease into the Kathmandu rhythm by exploring local neighborhoods, sampling Nepali cuisine, and soaking in the first impressions of its vibrant urban atmosphere.

Stroll Through Thamel District

Begin your Kathmandu adventure with a leisurely walk through the lively Thamel neighborhood. This tourist-friendly area is filled with colorful shops, cafes, and street vendors. It’s the perfect place to get a feel for the local energy and browse for unique souvenirs.

Sample Momos at a Local Eatery

Treat yourself to Kathmandu’s iconic street food—momos! Try these delicious Nepali dumplings at a local eatery, like Yangling Tibetan Restaurant, to get an authentic taste and learn about Nepal’s food culture. Vegetarian and meat options abound.

Sundowner at Garden of Dreams

Unwind from your travels at the serene Garden of Dreams, an oasis in the heart of the city. Appreciate its historic architecture and lush gardens, then relax with tea or a light drink at the Kaiser Cafe inside the compound.

Nagarkot Sunrise & Bhaktapur Heritage Tour -Private Full Day Trip

Nagarkot Sunrise & Bhaktapur Heritage Tour -Private Full Day Trip

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Escape the city and start your day with a breathtaking sunrise from the hilltop village of Nagarkot, one of the best spots near Kathmandu to catch views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest (on clear days). After soaking in the scenic beauty and enjoying a warm tea or breakfast with panoramic mountain views, travel to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bhaktapur—a perfectly preserved medieval city rich in culture, architecture and history. Stroll through the Bhaktapur Durbar Square, admire ancient temples, see traditional Newari architecture, and explore pottery squares and hidden courtyards. With a private guide and vehicle, this tour offers flexibility, personal attention and a stress-free way to discover two of the Kathmandu Valley’s most iconic highlights in a single day.

4.2 (42 reviews)

From $60 USD

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Experiences

Teaching at Buddhist Monasteries in Nepal
teaching

Teaching at Buddhist Monasteries in Nepal

Minimum 4 weeks

Nepal

$495/week

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Volunteer Teaching in Kathmandu, Nepal
teaching

Volunteer Teaching in Kathmandu, Nepal

Minimum 1 week

Nepal

$370/week

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Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Nepal
adventure

Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Nepal

Minimum 4 weeks

Nepal

$615/week

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Poon Hill Trek in Nepal
adventure

Poon Hill Trek in Nepal

Minimum 1 week

Nepal

$1040/week

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Adventure Week in Nepal
adventure

Adventure Week in Nepal

Minimum 1 week

Nepal

$675/week

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Everest Base Camp Trek in Nepal
adventure

Everest Base Camp Trek in Nepal

Minimum 4 weeks

Nepal

$975/week

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Attractions

4.9 (24 reviews)
Amazing 1 Day Trekking Experience in Kathmandu Nepal

Amazing 1 Day Trekking Experience in Kathmandu Nepal

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Get up close and personal with Nepal's Geography, mountains and vibrant culture within a day while you are in Kathmandu. Experience one day trekking in Nepal, walk through virgin wild trails along south west of Kathmandu valley rim that most travelers miss. Look Himalayan panorama and Kathmandu city view with gentle guided 5 hrs hike through dense pine and rhododendron forest covering 15 km hike. You most be physically fit for this hike. Superb! you can see most of the mountains which are in Nepal including Mt. Everest and Annapurna from distant throughout the journey. Escape hustle and bustle of Kathmandu, meet hundreds of birds and wildlife along the trek. Cable car riding up to Chandragiri will be memorable. This is the most beautiful one day trekking experience in Nepal.

From $130 USD

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5.0 (6 reviews)
Best Nepal Tour: Kathmandu Pokhara Chitwan Tour

Best Nepal Tour: Kathmandu Pokhara Chitwan Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

This package let travelers to reach in cool place to hot just in a day difference. Kathmandu: to explore the rich cultures of Nepal, Its History, UNESCO World heritage sites, festivals, temples and many more which you can read in other pages. Pokhara: A beautiful city of lakes and mountains. Main attractions of Pokhara are Phewa Lake, Davi's fall, Begnas Lake, Talbarahi Temple, Mahendra Barahi Temple and Sarangkot hill is popular for sunrise and view point to watch mountains in the early morning of the trip. Beside natural attractions Pokhara also offers adventurous sports, Mountain Biking, zip flyer, Bungee jump, Ultra-light flight, paragliding, boating etc. are major names for your reference. Chitwan: Chitwan national park is famous for wildlife. It is richest park of Nepal in flora and fauna. Jungle Safari is available which offers to watch Elephants, One-horned Rhinos, Bengal tigers, Crocodiles, and many other wild animals & birds.

From $600 USD

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4.0 (4 reviews)
Wildlife Adventure in Chitwan Nepal

Wildlife Adventure in Chitwan Nepal

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Wildlife Adventure in Chitwan Nepal offer you the best of Chitwan;  a wilderness of rich ecosystem that includes mammals, birds, reptiles and water animals of many kinds. We also introduce you to the Chitwan experience: the colorful Tharu Culture, their lifestyle, culture and tradition. Prepare yourself to dissolve wilderness adventure in Nepal. .

From $139 USD

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5.0 (23 reviews)
8 Days Tour in Nepal - Kathmandu, Chitwan & Pokhara (3 & 4 Star)

8 Days Tour in Nepal - Kathmandu, Chitwan & Pokhara (3 & 4 Star)

INSTANT

Discover the perfect blend of culture, nature, and relaxation with our Nepal Highlights Tour: Culture, Wildlife & Lakeside Charm – 8 Days. This thoughtfully curated journey showcases the very best of Nepal—from the sacred temples and ancient heritage sites of Kathmandu to the lush jungles of Chitwan and the tranquil beauty of Pokhara. What sets this tour apart is the seamless balance between immersive experiences and comfort: guided cultural explorations, thrilling jungle safaris, and peaceful lakeside strolls—all paired with quality accommodations and personalized service. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning explorer, this tour offers an authentic taste of Nepal’s rich diversity in just eight unforgettable days. Operated by Luxury Holidays Nepal, a trusted name in premium travel experiences, every detail is handled with care. Book now and let us turn your journey

From $299 USD

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4.7 (11 reviews)
3 Days Pokhara Tour From Kathmandu Nepal

3 Days Pokhara Tour From Kathmandu Nepal

INSTANT

Beautiful Natural City, Pokhara visit in short duration. Sunrise view over Mt. Annapurna. Visit Entire Pokhara with most beautiful places. World Peace Stupa tour. Explore Fewa lake in Rowing boat for an hour. Scenic drive Kathmandu ~ Pokhara with Tourist Bus

From $240 USD

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5.0 (1 reviews)
Very Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Kathmandu Nepal

Very Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Kathmandu Nepal

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Exciting Very Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Kathmandu Nepal is best option for trekker to approach ABC in 6 days from Kathmandu. Places will cover: Pokhara, Katku, Chhomrong, Himalaya, MBC, ABC, Jhinu (Hot spring). Trip will begins after receiving you from Kathmandu and ends by drop you back to Kathmandu.

From $900 USD

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4.9 (27 reviews)
12-Day Nepal Adventure Trek with Jungle Safari

12-Day Nepal Adventure Trek with Jungle Safari

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL

12-Day Nepal adventure is an exclusive adventure tour package for Nepal made for those, who have about two weeks for Nepal and who want to explore Nepal and experience the culture, Nature, Himalayas, valleys, and jungle. Nepal is the best destination for all types of tourists/travelers having many cultural, historical, religious, Mountains, Jungles, and natural heritages. We have covered almost all the most attractive tourist destinations of Nepal on the Nepal Adventure Package. The Nepal Adventure is an amazing exhilarating adventure tour in Nepal, the tour comprises a complete trip within Kathmandu, travel to Pokhara, and trekking in Annapurna Region, the Ghorepani Poon Hill, and Chitwan National Park visit.

From $950 USD

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5.0 (28 reviews)
6 Days Special Kathmandu Pokhara Tour in Nepal

6 Days Special Kathmandu Pokhara Tour in Nepal

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

The major highlights of holiday in Nepal are Kathmandu and Pokhara. The Kathmandu valley would give you the sites of historical and architectural importance while Pokhara city will give you the stunning experience of nature. The visit of ancient palaces, temples and pagodas of Kathmandu would ignite the spiritual part of your life while the activities like cave exploration, boating, sightseeing of mysterious Davis Falls and mirrored look of Mount Fishtail in Fewa Lake would make you feel as if you are in the fairyland. Join us in this package to witness the culture, history, tradition, nature and clamor of these two vibrant cities. High lights of this trip! • UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES • Boating • Caves Exploration • Sunrise & Sunset Viewpoint • Mysterious waterfall and Gorge

From $1000 USD

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5.0 (4 reviews)
7 Days Nepal Tour (Kathmandu Pokhara and Chitwan)

7 Days Nepal Tour (Kathmandu Pokhara and Chitwan)

INSTANT

Unique experience to explore Nepal's Nature, Culture and Heritage at once. Places (cities) we will cover: Kathmandu, Chitwan and Pokhara.

From $789 USD

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5.0 (31 reviews)
21 days Himalayan yoga retreat in Nepal in Kathmandu

21 days Himalayan yoga retreat in Nepal in Kathmandu

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Nobody can change your life except you. You are the artist of your own life. Join this retreat to purify your life as Nepal Yoga Home offers you a special soul meditation, which is the greatest pathway to change your inner world. Held at the lap of National Park of Kathmandu, you will enjoy yoga classes with beautiful and inspiring views, very comfortable accommodations and healthy vegetarian meals. Take a step into a new world of peace, balance and free your mind, body and soul. Come and join this Nepal's number one yoga school today! Highlights of course: Daily yoga sessions Daily soul meditation classes One yogic detoxification therapy Speech and discussion about yoga and life Music therapy and mantra chanting 20 nights accommodation Full board meals

From $1282 USD

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