Nepal
Kathmandu
Kathmandu is the capital and largest city of Nepal, located in the center of the Kathmandu Valley. Home to about 3.2 million people, it serves as the central hub for traveling around Nepal.
Updated August 15, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors
- Gateway airport
- Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM)
- Best season
- Feb–Apr, Oct–Dec
- Time zone
- Asia/Kathmandu
- Sights covered
- 45 places
Sights worth seeing
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Temples & religious sites
Pashupatinath Temple
A Hindu temple on the banks of the Bagmati River east of Kathmandu, renowned as a sacred site dedicated to Shiva. It draws a steady stream of worshippers year-round, and during the Shivaratri festival, pilgrims from around the world fill it to capacity.
Temples & religious sites
Swayambhunath
A Buddhist temple set on a hill west of Kathmandu, nicknamed the "Monkey Temple" for the many monkeys living around it. It is one of the major sites of the Kathmandu Valley, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.
Museums & galleries
Narayanhiti Palace
The former residence of the Nepali royal family in Kathmandu, once host to major state events. Its lavish audience hall and gardens let visitors experience the history of Nepal's monarchy.
Parks & gardens
Basantapur Durbar Square
A traditional square in central Kathmandu, it's one of Nepal's iconic Durbar Squares. Former royal palaces and temples cluster here, offering a glimpse into local history and architecture.
Temples & religious sites
Changu Narayan Temple
A Hindu temple atop a hill near Kathmandu, built in the 4th century and considered one of Nepal's oldest temples. Dedicated to the god Vishnu, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.
Nature
Kathmandu Valley
Located in central Nepal, the Kathmandu Valley encompasses ancient cities such as Kathmandu, Lalitpur, and Bhaktapur, along with numerous Hindu and Buddhist sites. It's home to temples and squares designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Temples & religious sites
Budhanilkantha Temple
This temple sits in a quiet village on the outskirts of Kathmandu, offering a peaceful, away-from-the-city atmosphere for worship. It's a pleasant spot to stroll the grounds at leisure and relax.
Parks & gardens
Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park
This national park lies at the foot of Shivapuri Peak, on the northern edge of the Kathmandu basin. Since its designation in 2002, it has been a popular natural retreat for walking and trekking through dense forest trails.
How many days do you need?
Routes grouped by travel distance so each day stays comfortable.
Average temperature by month
5-year average
Getting there
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Getting around the city
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Guides by theme
Best value
Where to stay in Kathmandu for the best value
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5-star & luxury
Where to stay in Kathmandu for a luxury experience
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Pool villas & resorts
Where to find pool villas and resorts in Kathmandu
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Family travel
Where to stay in Kathmandu for a family trip
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Couples & honeymoon
Where to stay in Kathmandu for couples and honeymooners
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Central & near stations
Where to stay in Kathmandu for central access and transport
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Best time to visit
When is the best time to visit Kathmandu, Nepal?
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First-time guide
How to navigate Kathmandu for first-time visitors
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Getting around
How to get around Kathmandu, Nepal
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