Kathmandu, the capital and largest city of Nepal, is a fascinating destination full of historic sites, colorful temples, lively markets, and beautiful scenery. Located in a valley at an elevation of 4,600 feet in the foothills of the Himalayas, Kathmandu has been an important cultural and economic hub for centuries. With its ancient temples, palaces and monuments dating back to the 5th century, Kathmandu offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in Nepali history and culture.
A Brief History of Kathmandu
The Kathmandu Valley has been inhabited for thousands of years, but the earliest known kingdom was founded in the 8th century BCE. Kathmandu itself was founded in 723 CE by the Licchavi dynasty, who ruled for around 300 years before the valley began to fragment into smaller kingdoms. Between the 12th and 18th centuries, Kathmandu was under the rule of the Malla dynasty, who left their mark by building many of the valley's iconic temples and palaces.
After the Malla empire fragmented, the Shah dynasty took control in the late 18th century, absorbing the city into a unified Kingdom of Nepal. Kathmandu continued to grow under the Shahs, becoming an important stop on the trade routes between India and Tibet. After the Shah rule ended in 2008, Kathmandu became part of the new federal democratic republic of Nepal.
Despite its turbulent political history, Kathmandu has remained the cultural, economic and political hub of Nepal for over a millennium. The city has withstood devastating earthquakes, fires, and political upheavals while still maintaining its unique cultural heritage. This rich history can be explored in the many historic buildings, temples, artworks and artifacts found throughout the city.
Top Sights and Attractions in Kathmandu
Durbar Square
The historic heart of Kathmandu and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Durbar Square contains a series of royal palaces, temples and courtyards that span the history of Kathmandu. The square was once the site of Malla and Shah dynasty palaces, which can still be visited today. Highlights include the Hanuman Dhoka Palace, the statue of Kal Bhairav (a manifestation of Shiva), and the Kumari Ghar, home to the living goddess Kumari.
Swayambhunath
Perched atop a hill west of Durbar Square, Swayambhunath is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site. Also known as the Monkey Temple for its resident population of monkeys, the complex contains a gleaming white stupa and many shrines and temples. Visitors can take in sweeping views of Kathmandu from its hilltop location.
Boudhanath
One of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world, Boudhanath is a major pilgrimage site for Tibetan Buddhists. With its all-seeing eyes of Buddha painted on all four sides, the enormous mandala-shaped stupa is an iconic Kathmandu landmark. Visitors can explore the colorful Tibetan Buddhist temples that surround the stupa and observe monks and pilgrims performing kora (circumambulation).
Pashupatinath
Situated on the banks of the Bagmati River, Pashupatinath Temple is one of the most important Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. While only Hindus are allowed inside the main temple, visitors can wander the intricate wood carvings, statues and shrines along the riverbank and observe cremation ceremonies along the ghats.
Patan
Once an independent kingdom itself, Patan is now part of greater Kathmandu. This historically rich city is home to over 1,200 Buddhist and Hindu shrines. Highlights include Durbar Square, the Golden Temple, and Krishna Mandir temple with its 21 golden spires. Visitors can watch religious rituals, explore historic architecture and wander artisan shops.
Bhaktapur
East of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur or "City of Devotees" packs a cultural punch in its small area. Entering through the gates feels like stepping back in time to the 17th century when Bhaktapur was an independent city-state. Marvel at the intricate woodcarvings and pottery, spend time in Durbar Square, and wander narrow alleyways lined with red brick homes.
Thamel
For many visitors, the bustling district of Thamel is their introduction to Kathmandu. This tourist hub is packed with restaurants, shops, bars and accommodation options. From bargaining for knock-off North Face gear to dodging motorcycle taxis on narrow streets, Thamel offers a sensory experience like no other in Kathmandu.
Hiking and Nature Walks
There are many opportunities for hikers and nature lovers in the Kathmandu Valley. Trails lead to small villages, lush forests and Himalayan viewpoints. Popular options include day hikes to Nagarkot, Namobuddha, Chandragiri Hill, Phulchoki and Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. For multi-day treks just outside the city, destinations like Langtang, Helambu and Dhading offer picturesque mountain scenery.
Kathmandu's Festivals and Cultural Life
As an ethnically and religiously diverse melting pot, Kathmandu comes alive during many colorful festivals and events throughout the year. Some of the most popular include:
Shivaratri (February/March) - Krishna and Pashupatinath temples celebrate the festival of Lord Shiva with offerings, rituals, fairs and pilgrims.
Holi (March) - The Hindu festival of colors brings citywide street celebrations. People throw colored powder and spray water to commemorate the triumph of good over evil.
Buddha Jayanti (April/May) - The birthday of Buddha is celebrated with prayer and processions, mainly around Swayambhunath and Boudhanath stupas.
Dasain (September/October) - The biggest Nepali festival celebrates the victory of the Hindu Taleju goddess. Locals celebrate with feasts, blessings, gift-giving and kite-flying.
Tihar (October/November) - Known as the festival of lights, Tihar is celebrated for five days with candles, decorations and prayer rituals
Yomari Punhi (December) - The Newari festival in Patan celebrates the end of the rice harvest with singing, dancing and feasts.
In between festivals, Kathmandu has a thriving arts scene and plenty of ways to engage with traditional culture. Attend a performance of Nepali story-dancing at a cultural show, watch devotees pray at one of Kathmandu's many temples and shrines, or view sacred Buddhist art and thanka paintings. Trying Newari food specialities and shopping for dhaka fabric, pashmina shawls and handicrafts are some of the best ways to dive into Kathmandu's cultural richness.
Shopping and Dining in Kathmandu
From bustling bazaars to slick malls, Kathmandu offers plenty of shopping opportunities. Many affordable wares can be found in the city's various markets:
Thamel - This tourist district is full of shops, stalls and vendors selling everything from knock-off outdoor gear to fair trade crafts and souvenirs.
Asan Tol - Kathmandu's oldest market is packed with spice vendors, food stalls and shops selling household items and puja offerings.
Indrachowk - A historic market square that specializes in traditional Nepali clothing, fabrics, and jewelry.
Bhrikuti Mandap - An exhibitor's hall with dozens of stalls selling handicrafts, artworks, thangkas and assorted souvenirs.
High-end items and brand name stores can be found around Durbar Marg and inside Western-style malls like Civil Mall, City Centre and Summit. For a uniquely Nepali shopping experience, don't miss the pottery workshops in Thimi and Bhaktapur.
When it comes to dining in Kathmandu, all tastes and budgets are covered. For Nepali specialties like dal bhat (lentils and rice), momos (dumplings) and spicy achar pickles, head to local spots in Kupondole and Patan. Thamel is filled with backpacker cafes, pizzerias, and restaurants serving Asian and continental fare. Head to Jhamsikhel, Durbar Marg or Lalitpur for upscale dining at international hotels and independent restaurants.
Make sure to try authentic Newari cuisine with native ingredients like buffalo meat, beaten rice and wild nettles. And for dessert, juice shops all over the city serve delicious falooda, a rose-flavored milkshake with vermicelli, basil seeds and jelly toppings.
Getting Around Kathmandu and the Valley
As a sprawling city with unreliable street names and addresses, getting around Kathmandu can be a challenge at first. Here are the main transportation options for navigating the capital:
Walking - The best way to experience Kathmandu is on foot. Just be prepared for uneven roads and motorbike traffic.
Taxi - Metered taxis are available, though many drivers still bargain for fares. Ride-hailing apps are also popular.
Public buses - Crowded buses and microbuses connect Kathmandu with towns across the valley. Know your stop and have change ready.
Sajha buses - More comfortable and less crowded buses with fixed routes and prepaid fares. Useful for longer day trips.
Bikes/Motorbikes - Possible to rent, but requires caution on Kathmandu's chaotic streets. Helmets are recommended but not required.
Rickshaws - Cycle rickshaws provide short rides around tourist districts like Thamel at negotiable fares.
Outside the city, day trips to Patan, Bhaktapur and other valley sights are easy and affordable using local buses, hired taxis or guided tours. For further destinations like Nagarkot and Namobuddha, private jeeps, mini-buses or taxis can be arranged. Just be sure to settle on a return fare before departure.
Staying Safe in Kathmandu
While generally safe, Kathmandu does require some extra precautions. Basic safety tips include:
Keep valuables secured and avoid flashing signs of wealth. Use hotel safes when available.
Be extra alert in crowded tourist hubs like Thamel. Watch for pickpockets, bag-snatching and scams.
Arrange airport transfers and tourism activities through reputable hotels or companies. Avoid "freelance" guides and drivers.
Confirm all transport prices before entering any taxi, rickshaw, etc. Don't assume meters are used everywhere.
Ignore touts, vendors and guides who approach you persistently near attractions.
Always carry a business card from your hotel/accommodations, especially if new to the city.
Carry a face mask; air pollution can be severe during dry season.
Bring motion sickness medicine if sensitive to windy roads; mountain driving can be bumpy.
Drink only bottled water and avoid raw/unpeeled produce from street vendors.
With basic precautions, Kathmandu is very safe to explore. Violent crime is rare and Nepalis are generally very friendly and hospitable people. Simply use good judgement, secure belongings and avoid isolated areas after dark.
Kathmandu - Ancient Traditions, Lively Spirit
For visitors seeking a destination that combines historic architecture, vibrant cultural traditions and outstanding natural scenery, Kathmandu is hard to beat. The historic temples, palaces and stupas displayed around Durbar Square, Patan and Bhaktapur provide a gateway into the valley's rich past as a cornerstone of Nepali identity. Yet the city feels very much alive thanks to its colorful street culture and festivals, bustling markets and young energetic population.
From the peaceful ritual motions of Swayambhunath's praying monks to the frenetic motorbike buzz of Thamel's nightlife district, Kathmandu contains multitudes. It's a city where ancient deities still receive offerings during lengthy pujas yet western-style cafes do a brisk trade in Americanos and vegan burritos. Spiritual pilgrims gather beside river cremation scenes even as new generations order cocktails and dance in nightclubs until the wee hours. In so many ways, Kathmandu provides a microcosm of Nepal's blend of old and new, traditional and modern.
While the chaos and congestion of Kathmandu can be overwhelming at first, an unforgettable experience awaits those willing to dive in and explore this remarkable crossroads. Each alley, shrine, shop and neighborhood reveals another layer of Kathmandu's living history and cultural mosaic. Hard-to-believe sights become everyday occurrences - the Sadhu meditating by Pashupatinath, the goat peeking out a Bhaktapur shop window, the taxi with whole families piled in back. Stay open-minded, befriend some locals, and the magic of Kathmandu is sure to enchant.
