Kathmandu

How many days: 4

Spend your first day exploring Kathmandu Durbar Square and the old streets around it. Use the second day for Swayambhunath and neighbourhood sightseeing, then visit Boudhanath and Pashupatinath on the third day.

Keep the fourth day for Patan or Bhaktapur, both of which offer important historic architecture within the wider valley. Four days gives you a useful introduction. If you are heading into the mountains, allow additional time for preparation and possible transport disruption.

What to do in Kathmandu

Explore Kathmandu Durbar Square

Walk among historic palaces, temples and courtyards in the old royal centre. Some structures have undergone restoration following earthquake damage.

Visit Swayambhunath

Climb to the hilltop Buddhist complex, often called the Monkey Temple. Its stupas, prayer flags and valley views make it a memorable stop.

Walk around Boudhanath Stupa

Experience one of Nepal's major Buddhist pilgrimage sites. Walk respectfully around the stupa and observe the surrounding religious life.

Visit Pashupatinath

Explore the surroundings of this important Hindu temple complex beside the Bagmati River. Respect restrictions on temple entry and funeral ceremonies.

Discover Patan Durbar Square

Visit the historic centre of Lalitpur for traditional Newar architecture, temples and courtyards. It is one of the valley's most rewarding cultural areas.

Explore Bhaktapur

Walk through the historic city east of Kathmandu, known for brick streets, temples and traditional squares. Allow time to wander beyond the main monuments.

Wander through Thamel

Explore the busy neighbourhood known for trekking shops, cafés and narrow streets. It is convenient for travel preparation and casual sightseeing.

Visit the Garden of Dreams

Take a break from traffic in a landscaped historic garden near Thamel. It offers a quieter setting for a short rest.

Explore the old market streets

Walk through traditional commercial areas such as Asan, where shops and markets fill narrow lanes. Keep an eye on traffic and respect working traders.

Enjoy a valley viewpoint

Travel to a suitable hilltop or established viewpoint for a wider look at Kathmandu Valley. Clear mountain views depend heavily on weather and air quality.

What to eat and drink

Try momos

Enjoy Nepalese dumplings filled with vegetables or meat, usually served with a spiced dipping sauce. They are one of the city's most familiar foods.

Eat dal bhat

Try the traditional meal of lentils, rice and accompanying vegetables or curries. It is filling and widely eaten across Nepal.

Sample Newari cuisine

Explore dishes associated with the Kathmandu Valley's Newar communities. Ask about spice levels and ingredients, as preparations vary.

Try thukpa

Enjoy a warming noodle soup influenced by Himalayan and Tibetan food traditions. It is particularly welcome in cooler weather.

Taste sel roti

Try a ring-shaped fried rice-flour bread with a lightly sweet flavour. It is often eaten as a snack or during celebrations.

Drink masala tea

Enjoy spiced milk tea during a break from sightseeing. Choose establishments with good hygiene and use safe drinking water.

Getting around

Thamel, Kathmandu Durbar Square and parts of the older city are best explored on foot, although pavements can be narrow, uneven or obstructed. Traffic is busy and road crossings require patience. Local buses and smaller public vehicles serve the valley, but routes can be difficult for visitors to understand and journeys may be slow.

Taxis and app-based rides, where available, are practical for reaching Boudhanath, Pashupatinath, Patan and other sights. Agree fares or confirm the quoted price before setting off. Hiring a car with a driver is often more comfortable than self-driving for longer valley excursions. Allow generous travel time because congestion and road conditions can cause delays.

Good to know

• Kathmandu is at moderate altitude, but it is far lower than Nepal's major trekking regions. High-altitude precautions become important when travelling into the mountains.
• Air pollution and dust can be significant, especially around busy roads. Consider a suitable mask if you are sensitive.
• Drink treated or bottled water and take care with food hygiene.
• Monsoon rain can disrupt roads, flights and outdoor plans. Build flexibility into your itinerary.
• Walk clockwise around Buddhist stupas where customary, and follow photography and access restrictions at religious sites.
• Check trekking permits, guide requirements, weather and official safety advice separately before any Himalayan journey.