The Kathmandu, Nepal City Guide, for Tourists | Essentials to Know with Tongue-in-Cheek Comedy
Explore the wonders of Kathmandu, Nepal, with this essential city guide. From the bustling markets of Thamel to ancient temples like Swayambhunath and Pashupatinath, discover the rich culture, spiritual sites, and stunning Himalayan vistas that make this city unforgettable.
Thamel’s bustling markets
Thamel is the epicenter for tourists in Kathmandu, offering trekking supplies, local crafts, diverse food, and religious sites.
Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)
Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple, is an iconic and spiritual landmark important in both Buddhist and Hindu religions, offering picturesque views of Kathmandu Valley.
Pashupatinath Temple
Pashupatinath Temple, dating back to at least 400 AD, is the oldest Hindu temple in Kathmandu, featuring Hindu rituals dealing with death and rebirth along the river banks.
Boudhanath Stupa
Boudhanath Stupa is Nepal's largest spherical stupa, symbolizing the universe with its white dome and golden spire, surrounded by shops and rooftop cafes.
Kathmandu Durbar Square
Kathmandu Durbar Square is a living museum of Nepal's spiritual and political evolution, featuring over 50 temples and a museum.
Patan
Patan, also known as Lalitpur, features a Durbar Square with fantastic architecture and temples and is less touristy than Kathmandu Durbar Square.
Bhaktapur
Bhaktapur is a historic medieval city that is very well preserved and has four completely unique squares.
Nagarkot
Nagarkot offers majestic Himalayan views, best seen right at sunrise.
Shivapuri National Park
Shivapuri National Park is a great escape from the noisy city, offering views of the city and the Himalaya mountains along quiet nature trails.
Osan Bazaar
Osan Bazaar is where locals shop for everyday goods, electronics, and appliances and is the exact opposite of Thamel, being very authentic and not touristy.
Themal Neighborhood District
Themal Neighborhood District is the epicenter for everything tourist related.
Narayun Hiti Palace Museum
Narayun Hiti Palace Museum is the former residence of Nepal's King.
Garden of Dreams
The Garden of Dreams is a small oasis right by the Themal neighborhood, with greenery and colorful flowers, great for escaping the traffic noise.
Rani Pokerai
The Rani Pokerai is a large pond just outside of Themal neighborhood with an interesting history.
Darhara
The Darhara is a ninestory tower with panoramic views of the entire area.
Talu Temple
The Talu Temple, built in 1549, is the tallest structure in Durbar Square and is only open one day a year.
Chundra Giri Hills
At Chundra Giri Hills you'll be able to take a cable car to the peak and then find a host of different activities at the top.
Tribuan International Airport
Tribuan International Airport is the main gateway into Kathmandu.
Akash Bahar Hindu Temple
Akash Bahar Hindu Temple is a spot where you can find quite a few stalls set up around the temple.