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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

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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.

A picture of Momos

Momos

Momos are Nepali style dumplings with various fillings such as meat, vegetables, or cheese, and are served with...

A picture of Dal Bhat

Dal Bhat

Dal Bhat is a traditional Nepali meal consisting of lentil soup (dal), rice (bhat), and a variety of...

A picture of Sel Roti

Sel Roti

Sel Roti is a traditional ring-shaped rice flour bread that's deep-fried until it's crispy on the outside and...

A picture of Yomari

Yomari

Yomari is a special Nepali sweet dumpling made of rice flour dough filled with a mixture of sweetened...

A picture of Chatamari

Chatamari

Chatamari, also known as Nepali pizza, is a rice flour crepe topped with various ingredients such as minced...

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

5.0 (64 reviews)
Kathmandu: Full Day 7 UNESCO Tour with Lunch - Private/Group

Kathmandu: Full Day 7 UNESCO Tour with Lunch - Private/Group

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

A Kathmandu sightseeing tour offers a captivating journey through Nepal's rich cultural and spiritual heritage. Begin at the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, a revered Hindu pilgrimage site on the banks of the Bagmati River. Continue to the majestic Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest stupas in the world, where you can observe the daily rituals of Tibetan Buddhists. Explore the historical Patan Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing intricate architecture, palaces, and temples from the Malla dynasty. Lastly, visit Swayambhunath, the iconic Monkey Temple, perched atop a hill, offering panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley and a tranquil atmosphere perfect for meditation. This tour provides a profound insight into Nepal's diverse religious and architectural heritage.

From $5 USD

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5.0 (9 reviews)
Full Day Kathmandu city tour

Full Day Kathmandu city tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Kathmandu Valley Tour: a guided sightseeing tour to ancient monumental and cultural world heritage sites in Kathmandu in a just a day. Nepal Horizon Treks & Expedition has designed this Kathmandu valley day trip package for those who have just a day in Kathmandu to explore its fascinating heritage sites. Kathmandu valley day tour is fully a guided trip to historical and cultural landmarks of Kathmandu where our experienced guides will take you around the city to explore these sites to gain in-depth knowledge about the history and culture of Nepal.

From $70 USD

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5.0 (43 reviews)
Exclusive Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Exclusive Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour UNESCO World Heritage Sites

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

✅Exclusive 4 UNESCO+Dharahara MC tour. ✅Full-day excursion to see all 7 sites. ✅MotorCycle trip with Guide Rider. ✅All Private tours Kathmandu sightseeing tour offers the Nepal's spiritual soul and rich history on this amazing seven iconic UNESCO Sites (Monkey Temple, the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, the grand Boudhanath Stupa and the royal Durbar Squares, Patan and Bhaktapur) Including Dharahara Tower as well hidden monuments and places around the valley. From the top of Dharahara, you can enjoy a stunning view of the entire Kathmandu even the majestic Himalayas are visible on a clear day. We offer the comfortable private vehicle with an expert guide and driver. For Motorcycle tour well condition Motorcycle and professional Guide Rider. Feel Free and safety to Explore centuries old palaces, temples, stupas and witness Hindu rituals along the Bagmati River, experience the vibrant mix of Hindu and Buddhist costoms.

From $66 USD

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5.0 (11 reviews)
7 days Nepal Motorcycle tour

7 days Nepal Motorcycle tour

INSTANT

A 7 days Nepal Motorcycle Tour leads you to explore exotic view and art stored outside the valley. This tour will lead you to some of those exotic places; Chitwan, Lumbini, Gorkha, Bandipur and Pokhara. Bandipur is Nepal’s ancient trading town with amazing views of Annapurna Mountain range. In the present day it is famous for one day tour or hike to breathtaking views of hills and Himalayas of Nepal. Pokhara as we all know, it’s a happening place to be. From the party clubs to best eat out to hike, paragliding, bungee it’s an altogether package to have a tour. Pokhara has exotic views of the Annapurna Mountain range as it is nestled under it. There is more to it, the interesting trip to the old caves like Mahendra Cave, Gupteswor Mahadev Cave, etc., hike to Peace Pagoda. Ride to the lakes and temples are interesting on a near to perfect pitched roads.

From $2350 USD

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5.0 (3 reviews)
Kailashnath Mahadev, Panauti and Namo Buddha Monastery Sightseeing

Kailashnath Mahadev, Panauti and Namo Buddha Monastery Sightseeing

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Panauti is a Newari town around 32 km southeast of Kathmandu is one of the oldest towns in Nepal, with many temples dating back to the 15th Century or earlier on the confluence of the Rosi and Punyamati rivers. In Nepali society, such rivers are considered to be sacred. Panauti, once a major trading center with its own royal palace, today consists of a variety of Buddhist and Hindu religious monuments, and is considered to be one of the area's most important medieval sites. Namobuddha with old Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery is the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Nepal and the holiest in the world. It is known as the place where the Buddha, in a previous life as a prince Namura, gave his body to a starving tigress and her cubs. Kailashnath Mahadev Statue is the world's tallest Shiva temple. The statue is 143 feet (43.5 m) in height was made using copper, zinc, concrete, and steel.

From $104 USD

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4.9 (9 reviews)
Private Full-Day Kathmandu City Tour

Private Full-Day Kathmandu City Tour

INSTANT

Explore the famous cultural heritages of the Kathmandu Valley and discover the wonders of Nepal in just one day by joining this Kathmandu Sightseeing tour. With this well-prepared tour, travelers can visit and learn about the ancient history of the Boudhanath stupa, Swayambhunath, Kathmandu Durbar Square and Pashupatinath Temple in just one go. Additionally, you will get mesmerizing glimpses of the iconic historical structures and get closer to the Nepalese culture.

From $99 USD

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5.0 (1 reviews)
Kathmandu Sightseeing Day Tour by Guide and Private Car

Kathmandu Sightseeing Day Tour by Guide and Private Car

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Typically, you can fit 3 people in a car comfortably. You can visit four different places in Kathmandu sightseeing tour by private transport with a driver. And trip starts after your breakfast around 9:00 am and the trip will finish around 3:00 to 4:00 pm. Places to visit Kathmandu durbar square UNESCO World Heritage site Kathmandu Durbar Square holds the places of King Malla and Shah. Rules medieval times and Kumari house, which is home of the royal Kumari the living goddess. Swoyambhu Monkey Temple UNESCO world heritage site Swoyambhunath is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in Kathmandu. and it’s revered by both Hindus and Buddhists visit sites for worship daily. Boudha Stupa UNESCO World Heritage site Boudha stupas are one of the largest spherical stupas in Nepal. Pashupatinath Temple UNESCO World Heritage site dedicated to a Pashupati, a Hindu temple a form of Shiva, and sacred Hindu cremation, body burn place site of the Bagmati river.

From $117 USD

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5.0 (1 reviews)
Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour - Explore UNESCO Heritage sites 2 Days

Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour - Explore UNESCO Heritage sites 2 Days

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Kathmandu is and has been center of Nepal's history, art and culture for many years now. This city is often called open museum of antique arts, culture & history which has a lot to offer to its visitors. 2 days Kathmandu sightseeing tour package are made for the visitors who have less days in Nepal but want to explore Nepalese culture, tradition & nature. Also, Kathmandu is considered as one of the hottest place for tourism in Nepal. Highlights • Explore the sacred tradition and culture of the city • Visit the UNESCO World heritage sites • Enjoy your tour like a local with local guide • Visit most important temples and sites of Nepal

From $150 USD

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5.0 (22 reviews)
Bhutan Tour

Bhutan Tour

INSTANT

Experience Bhutan's allure with a captivating short tour. Begin with a scenic flight to Paro, unveiling stunning Himalayan views. Trek to the iconic Tiger's Nest Temple, a cliffside marvel. Explore Paro Ta Dzong, now the National Museum, and Tashichho Dzong, a majestic fortress monastery. Discover spiritual landmarks like the Memorial Chorten and the grand Buddha Dordenma statue. Immerse in Bhutanese hospitality and marvel at the country's unique architecture. Your journey promises unforgettable encounters with Bhutan's natural beauty, rich culture, and warm people. Important Notice: Travelers must book a minimum of 3 days in advance to ensure proper arrangements for the Bhutanese visa.

From $1400 USD

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5.0 (6 reviews)
Kathmandu and Pokhara Relaxing Tour

Kathmandu and Pokhara Relaxing Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Kathmandu and Pokhara Relaxing tour is a tremendous tour that we offer that caters cultural, natural and geographical exposures in Nepal. This is a specialized tour program that will enhance your lifetime experience. We came up with this idea keeping in mind the short holidays of our clients. We assure you that we provide the best possible options to have the best holiday here in Nepal. We start the tour from sightseeing at the most famous UNESCO world heritage sites at Kathmandu which includes the Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath, Swayambhu, and Boudhanath. We also make a visit to the two medieval cities famous for arts and architectures - Patan and Bhaktapur.Also will visit Pokhara the city of lakes and is also known as the gateway to the world famous Annapurna Region. Besides, the breathtaking views of the world famous Himalayas including Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, the panoramic and mesmerizing sunrise view over the Himalayas from the Sarangkot Hill.

From $400 USD

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