Travel Keyring

Kathmandu travel guide

Nepal

Basics

CountryNepal

Time zoneAsia/Kathmandu

CurrencyNPR

Official language(s)Nepali

It's essential to prepare your physical fitness before trekking. Also, it's advisable to acclimatize to local foods.

Places to visit

Narayanhiti Palace Museum

A former royal palace turned museum, useful for understanding Nepal’s modern royal history. Visitors can explore exhibits and palace interiors.

LocationNarayanhiti Palace Museum, Kathmandu

Nearest stationNo nearby rail station

HoursTue–Sun 10:30–15:30

AdmissionPaid admission

Travel tipCheck the entrance rules carefully, as photography restrictions may apply in some areas.

Asan Bazaar

A historic commercial district and lively market full of spices, everyday goods, temples, and narrow lanes. It is one of the best places to experience local atmosphere.

LocationAsan, Kathmandu

Nearest stationNo nearby rail station

HoursOpen 24 hours daily

AdmissionFree

Travel tipMorning to early afternoon is the easiest time to explore, and you should watch for motorbikes in the narrow alleys.

Ratna Park

A central park and plaza where you can observe everyday city life in Kathmandu. It is also a convenient place for a short break amid the busy traffic.

LocationRatna Park, Kathmandu

Nearest stationNo nearby rail station

HoursOpen 24 hours daily

AdmissionFree

Travel tipKeep an eye on your belongings, and consider a short visit rather than a long stay during crowded hours.

Swayambhunath Stupa

A hilltop Buddhist site nicknamed the Monkey Temple, offering excellent views over Kathmandu.

HoursOpen 24 hours daily

AdmissionPaid

Travel tipThere are many steps, so wear comfortable shoes; mornings are usually less crowded.

National Museum, Chhauni

A major museum showcasing Nepal’s history, art, and religious artifacts.

AdmissionPaid

Travel tipAllow plenty of time as the galleries are spread out, and check the photography rules before you go.

National Museum of Nepal

A diverse range of exhibits about Nepal's history and culture.

HoursDaily 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

AdmissionFree admission

Travel tipEnjoy without prior reservations, and feel free to request a guide.

Kathmandu Durbar Square

A UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in Nepali culture and history.

HoursDaily 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

AdmissionNPR 1000

Travel tipConsider a bike tour to cover more attractions quickly.

Garden of Dreams

A beautiful garden ideal for relaxation in a quiet atmosphere.

HoursDaily 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

AdmissionNPR 200

Travel tipVisit before sunset to enjoy a peaceful evening.

Pashupatinath Temple

The most sacred Hindu temple in the Himalayas.

HoursDaily 4:00 AM - 9:00 PM

AdmissionNPR 1000 (Foreigners)

Travel tipVisit at sunrise to see the changing scenery.

Boudhanath Stupa

One of the largest stupas in the world and a sacred site for Buddhists.

HoursDaily 5:00 AM - 8:00 PM

AdmissionNPR 400

Travel tipVisit early in the morning for a quieter experience.

Food to try

Bhojan Griha

A well-known restaurant where you can enjoy traditional Nepali home-style dishes together with cultural performances. It is a good choice for travelers seeking a complete Nepali dining experience.

LocationDillibazar, Kathmandu

Nearest stationNo nearby rail station

HoursDaily 12:00–22:00

AdmissionAbout NPR 800–2,500 per person

Travel tipDinner reservations are helpful, especially when cultural performances are scheduled.

Events

Biska Jatra

A famous New Year festival in Bhaktapur, known for giant chariot pulling and street rituals. It is one of the best-known events to visit as a day trip from Kathmandu.

WhenAround April each year

LocationBhaktapur Durbar Square area, Bhaktapur

Nearest stationNo nearby rail station

HoursAnnual outdoor street processions

AdmissionFree

Travel tipAllow plenty of extra travel time because road closures and heavy crowds are common.

Rato Machhindranath Jatra

A major traditional chariot festival held in Patan, Nepal, featuring the pulling of a huge chariot over an extended period. It is a great way to observe local faith and community participation up close.

WhenAround April–May each year

LocationPatan, Lalitpur

Nearest stationNo nearby rail station

HoursAnnual outdoor procession

AdmissionFree

Travel tipKeep a safe distance from the chariot route, as crowds can become extremely dense.

Kumari Jatra

A traditional festival in old Kathmandu centered on the living goddess Kumari. It often includes a large chariot procession and religious rituals.

WhenAround December each year

LocationKathmandu Durbar Square area, Kathmandu

Nearest stationNo nearby rail station

HoursAnnual street procession

AdmissionFree

Travel tipParts of the city center may be closed to traffic, so plan to walk some of the route.

Holi Festival

A joyful spring festival where colors are thrown and celebrated.

WhenAround April every year

Travel tipMeet new friends in the festive atmosphere!

Dashain Festival

One of the most important Hindu festivals in Nepal, celebrating the goddess Durga.

WhenAround October every year

AdmissionFree

Travel tipEnjoy various events and local shows during this festival.

Indra Jatra

A summer festival honoring the deities with parades.

WhenSummer (June to August)

AdmissionFree

Travel tipPlan ahead as it can be crowded with many locals.

Tihar Festival

A festival filled with lights and colorful foods in Nepal.

WhenAround January every year

Travel tipEnjoy the festive atmosphere with family and friends.

Basic travel phrases (English)

Hello

Hello · Greeting

Thank you

Thank you · Thanks

Nice to meet you

Nice to meet you · Nice to meet you

Have a great day

Have a great day · Wishing a good day

Welcome

Welcome · Welcome

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