Kathmandu, Nepal - Travel Guide

Explore Kathmandu's top attractions, including Swayambhunath Stupa, Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple.

Best Time to Visit Kathmandu

October - November and March - April offer clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and excellent mountain-view conditions.

Visa Information for Indian Travelers

No visa needed. Indian citizens do not require a visa or even a passport for Nepal; a valid Indian passport or voter ID card is accepted at the border and at Kathmandu airport. Carry photo ID for the whole trip, since hotels and domestic flights ask for it.

Visa rules change often. Verified 2026-09-06; confirm with the embassy or consulate before you book.

Top Attractions in Kathmandu

Swayambhunath Stupa: Climb the hill for Kathmandu Valley panoramas, colorful prayer flags, monkeys, and an ancient Buddhist atmosphere.
Boudhanath Stupa: Experience Tibetan Buddhist culture, peaceful circumambulation, rooftop cafés, and one of Nepal’s largest stupas.
Pashupatinath Temple: Visit Nepal’s most revered Hindu temple complex and observe riverside rituals along the sacred Bagmati River.
Kathmandu Durbar Square: Explore historic royal courtyards, pagoda temples, intricate woodcarvings, and living heritage in central Kathmandu.

Must-Try Food in Kathmandu

Momo: Steamed or fried dumplings filled with meat or vegetables, served with spicy tomato chutney.
Thakali Dal Bhat: A nourishing platter of rice, lentils, vegetables, pickles, curry, and sometimes meat.
Sel Roti: Traditional ring-shaped rice bread, lightly sweet and crispy outside, commonly enjoyed during festivals.

Kathmandu Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Kathmandu Durbar Square, Kumari Ghar, and nearby historic alleys around Basantapur. | Visit Swayambhunath Stupa, then enjoy valley views and traditional Newari neighborhoods nearby. | Dine in Thamel and browse its restaurants, handicraft shops, and lively pedestrian streets.

Day 2: Start at Pashupatinath Temple, observing respectful distance from ceremonies and riverside cremation rituals. | Walk around Boudhanath Stupa, visit monasteries, and enjoy Tibetan cuisine at rooftop restaurants. | Watch sunset prayers around Boudhanath before returning through Kathmandu’s bustling streets.

Day 3: Take a short trip to Patan Durbar Square for museums, courtyards, and exceptional metalwork. | Explore Patan’s hidden bahals, craft workshops, and traditional Newari cafés at a relaxed pace. | Enjoy live music or a cultural dinner performance in Thamel before departure preparations.

Safety Information

Safety score: Yellow - Safe for tourists, exercise caution while trekking.

Use registered taxis or ride-hailing services, especially after dark and around busy tourist districts.
Carry bottled water, secure valuables, and expect uneven pavements, traffic, and occasional pickpocketing.

Hotels in Kathmandu

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Kathmandu Travel FAQs

When is the best time to visit Kathmandu?
October - November and March - April offer clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and excellent mountain-view conditions.

What are the top things to do in Kathmandu?
The highlights are Swayambhunath Stupa, Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple and Kathmandu Durbar Square. TripVexa's Kathmandu guide has the full list with suggested timings.

Do Indian travelers need a visa for Nepal?
No visa needed. Indian citizens do not require a visa or even a passport for Nepal; a valid Indian passport or voter ID card is accepted at the border and at Kathmandu airport. Carry photo ID for the whole trip, since hotels and domestic flights ask for it.

What food is Kathmandu known for?
Try Momo, Thakali Dal Bhat and Sel Roti.

Is Kathmandu safe for travelers?
Kathmandu currently carries a Yellow safety rating: Safe for tourists, exercise caution while trekking. As anywhere, take normal precautions with valuables and check current local advisories before you travel.

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