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Kathmandu is the capital of Nepal and also a major tourist destination. Generally speaking, Kathmandu tourism refers to Kathmandu and its two surrounding cities, Patan and Bhaktapur.
The bustling Kathmandu is bustling with people. Beside the Durbar Square, which is full of ancient buildings, a girl in a colorful sari occasionally walks by. The enthusiastic hawking of vendors sometimes startles a flock of pigeons. Cats and dogs bask in the sun leisurely. People, animals and gods seem to have reached a harmonious unity. Here, religion is as natural as daily life.
September to April is the best time to visit Kathmandu. Kathmandu has a monsoon climate with mild weather year-round, divided into dry and rainy seasons.
The dry season (September to April) is characterized by pleasant weather and high visibility, making it the peak tourist season. The rainy season, from May to September, is less suitable for travel.
Kathmandu Durbar Square
Durbar Square is one of the most famous attractions in Kathmandu. The numerous ancient buildings, exquisite carvings and mysterious temples make people linger, and the historical atmosphere of Nepal is overwhelming; but the whizzing motorcycles, the street vendors setting up stalls everywhere, the figures taking a break everywhere, the children playing football, the flocks of pigeons, as well as the cows, sheep, dogs, cats, etc., make Durbar Square as lively as a big market.
Monkey Temple
Located west of Kathmandu, Swayambhunath Temple stands out as the oldest relic in the Kathmandu Valley. Legend has it that Gautama Buddha once visited this place. The abundance of monkeys here, known for their apathy towards strangers, gave it the name Swayambhunath Temple. From the summit, you can overlook the entire Kathmandu Valley. Don't forget to take a photo with Kathmandu from the summit! Every year, a grand ceremony is held here on the Buddha's birthday, drawing crowds and creating a vibrant atmosphere.
Pashupatinath Temple
Built in the 19th century, Pashupatinath Temple is one of Kathmandu's most important Hindu temples. Non-Hindus are prohibited from entering the main hall. Hindu cremations are performed here 24 hours a day. Visitors are not prohibited from taking photos during the cremation ceremony, and most tourists stand on the bridge or sit on the other side to watch. Please exercise due respect for the deceased and their families while viewing.
Recommended play time: 1-2 days
Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is a city rich in history and culture, known for its ancient temples, palaces, and stupas. It has been a center for Hindu and Buddhist traditions for centuries and is part of the Kathmandu Valley UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Located in the Kathmandu Valley of central Nepal. Accessible via Tribhuvan International Airport. Within the city, taxis, ride-hailing services, and walking are common for tourists.
Booking in advance is generally not required; for guided tours or special events, booking a few days ahead is recommended.
2–4 days to cover main squares, temples, stupas, museums, and surrounding cultural sites.
Guided tours are available in English and other major languages; some sites offer audio guides.
Some temples and stupas can be visited at night, especially for evening rituals. Special cultural performances may occur seasonally.
Tourist sites are crowded during weekends and holidays; weekdays and early mornings are less busy.
Major tourist areas have restrooms, cafes, restaurants, water stations, and souvenir shops; smaller streets may have limited facilities.
Main squares and gardens are mostly accessible; some temples have stairs and uneven terrain, which may limit accessibility.
Cash (Nepalese Rupees) is widely used; cards and mobile payments are accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and shops.
Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available; halal food is common in restaurants serving Muslim communities.
Souvenir shops sell handicrafts, thangkas, prayer flags, jewelry, carpets, and traditional Nepali masks.
