🌟 Top Things to Do in Kathmandu

 

🏛️ 1. Explore the Durbar Squares

Kathmandu Valley has three major Durbar Squares (all UNESCO World Heritage Sites):

  • Kathmandu Durbar Square – Palaces, temples, and the Kumari Ghar (home of the Living Goddess).

  • Patan Durbar Square – Stunning Newari architecture, art museums, and traditional craft shops.

  • Bhaktapur Durbar Square – Beautifully preserved, with fewer crowds and a strong medieval vibe.

🎫 Note: There’s usually a small entrance fee for foreigners at these sites.

🕉️ 2. Visit Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)

  • Ancient Buddhist stupa on a hilltop.

  • Panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley.

  • Sacred monkeys, prayer wheels, and a blend of Buddhist and Hindu iconography.

🛕 3. Wander Around Boudhanath Stupa

  • One of the largest stupas in the world.

  • Center of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal.

  • Circumambulate with locals, spin prayer wheels, and enjoy Tibetan tea at rooftop cafes.

🔥 4. Experience Pashupatinath Temple

  • One of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.

  • Observe traditional cremation ceremonies along the Bagmati River.

  • Rich in symbolism and spiritual energy (non-Hindus can’t enter the inner sanctum but can explore the surroundings).

🏺 5. Shop & Explore Thamel

  • Popular tourist neighborhood with trekking shops, cafes, souvenirs, and live music.

  • Great place for booking tours, eating international food, or buying local crafts (singing bowls, prayer flags, pashmina, etc.).

🧘 6. Join a Yoga or Meditation Class

  • Many studios in Kathmandu offer daily yoga, sound healing, or longer retreats.

  • Options include Vipassana centers, Tibetan healing courses, and Ayurveda.

🖼️ 7. Visit Museums & Galleries

  • National Museum of Nepal – History, weapons, and artifacts.

  • Taragaon Museum – Architecture, urban planning, and art.

  • Patan Museum – Highly recommended for traditional art and religious iconography.

🍲 8. Try Local Food

  • Must-try dishes: Momos (dumplings), dal bhat, chatamari, yomari, and Newari cuisine.

  • Go for a food tour or try street food at Asan and Indra Chowk.

🌄 9. Day Trips from Kathmandu

  • Nagarkot – Sunrise view of the Himalayas.

  • Pharping & Dakshinkali – Spiritual sites south of the city.

  • Chandragiri Hills – Cable car ride and panoramic mountain views.

  • Kirtipur – A quiet and historic Newari town near the city.

🛕 10. Discover Hidden Temples & Courtyards

  • Kathmandu has hundreds of hidden shrines, courtyards (bahals), and chaityas tucked away in alleyways — just wandering the old city is an adventure.

✅ Tips for Visiting Kathmandu

  • Best time: October–December (clear skies), or March–April (warm weather, blooming flowers).

  • Transport: Walk in central areas, use taxis or ride-hailing apps like Pathao.

  • Noise & traffic: Be prepared for chaotic streets — but that’s part of Kathmandu’s charm.