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Nepal 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

Kathmandu
Gateway airport
Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM)
Best season
Feb–Apr, Oct–Dec
Time zone
Asia/Kathmandu
Sights covered
45 places

Sights worth seeing

See all 45 →
Pashupatinath Temple

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.

Swayambhunath

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.

Narayanhiti Palace

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.

Basantapur Durbar Square

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.

Changu Narayan Temple

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.

Kathmandu Valley

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.

Budhanilkantha Temple

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.

Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park

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

10° Jan
12° Feb
16° Mar
20° Apr
20° May
22° Jun
23° Jul
23° Aug
22° Sep
19° Oct
15° Nov
12° Dec

Getting there

Check flights to Kathmandu first

Pick a departure airport and date to jump straight to results for Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM).

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Getting around the city

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Fares and timetables change often, so we don't list them here. Check the operator or the booking site for current prices and schedules.

Kathmandu Tours & Experiences Booking

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Local data

Get an eSIM for Nepal before you go

Activate mobile data with a QR code instead of swapping SIM cards. Buy it before departure and switch it on the moment you land.

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Where to stay

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