Nepal's capital sits in a mountain valley where Hindu temples and Buddhist stupas share space with medieval palaces and chaotic streets. The city is noisy, polluted, and overwhelming. It's also deeply spiritual, historically fascinating, and the gateway to some of Earth's greatest adventures. Kathmandu divides opinion. Some find the chaos unbearable; others love the sensory overload. What's undeniable: the Durbar Squares preserve centuries of Newari architecture, Boudhanath stupa offers genuine Buddhist devotion, and the surrounding mountains remind you why people come. Most travelers use Kathmandu as a base for Himalayan treks or Everest flights, but the city deserves attention on its own merits.
Best Time to Fly to Kathmandu
Peak Season
October through November offers perfect weather with clear Himalayan views, making it prime trekking and tourism season. Crowds and prices peak during this window.
Off Season (Best Deals)
June through August is monsoon season with heavy rain. December through February is dry but cold, especially at altitude. These periods offer lower prices and fewer tourists.
Spring (March to May) is warm at 60-85°F with increasing haze. Monsoon (June to September) brings heavy rain at 70-85°F. Fall (October to November) is ideal at 55-75°F with clear skies. Winter (December to February) is cold at 35-65°F with occasional frost.
💡Book 2-3 months ahead for peak season (October-November). Shoulder seasons (March-April) offer good weather with fewer crowds.
Cheapest Months to Fly to Kathmandu
Cheapest Months
June, July, February
Most Expensive
October to November, Dashain festival, Christmas
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Must-Try Foods in Kathmandu
Momo
Nepali dumplings filled with buffalo, chicken, or vegetables are the national snack. Steamed or fried, served with spicy tomato chutney. Every restaurant and street stall serves them. Some shops specialize in nothing else. Prices range from street cheap to restaurant refined.
$1-5
Dal Bhat
The Nepali staple: rice, lentil soup, vegetable curries, and pickles. It's unlimited refills at most restaurants. The phrase 'dal bhat power, 24 hour' reflects its trekking fuel status. Every Nepali eats this daily; the quality and accompaniments vary by restaurant.
$3-8
Newari Cuisine
The indigenous Kathmandu Valley cuisine features unusual offerings: dried buffalo, beaten rice, fermented vegetables, and spiced meats. Newari Khaja sets offer many small dishes. Places like Honacha and local joints in Bhaktapur serve authentic versions.
$5-15
Top Attractions in Kathmandu
Boudhanath Stupa
One of the world's largest Buddhist stupas draws Tibetan refugees, monks, and pilgrims who circumambulate at dawn and dusk. The eyes painted on the spire seem to watch everything. Rooftop restaurants offer sunset views. The spiritual atmosphere is genuine and moving.
Kathmandu Durbar Square
The medieval palace complex showcases Newari architecture with temples, courtyards, and intricate woodcarvings. The 2015 earthquake damaged many structures; restoration continues. The surrounding chaos of vendors and rickshaws adds energy. Hire a guide for context.
Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)
The hilltop stupa offers panoramic valley views and plenty of resident monkeys. Climb the 365 steps for exercise and atmosphere. The mixed Hindu-Buddhist complex reveals Nepal's religious syncretism. Sunrise and sunset draw photographers; midday is quieter.
Daily Costs in Kathmandu
Kathmandu is affordable. Street food costs almost nothing, guesthouses are cheap, and even nice hotels are reasonable. Trekking permits and guide fees add up for adventures, but city exploration costs little.
Accommodation (per night, pick one)
Budget
$10-25
Mid-Range
$40-80
Airbnb
$20-50
Food (per day)
Street Meal
$1-3
Restaurant
$5-15
Coffee
$2-4
Transport
Local Transport
$1-5/ride
Comfortable Daily Budget
(excluding flights)
$30-60
Getting Around Kathmandu
From the Airport
Tribhuvan Airport is just 6km from Thamel but traffic can make it 30-60 minutes. Prepaid taxis cost $5-8. Apps work for fair pricing. Many hotels arrange pickup.
Getting Around
Kathmandu's traffic is chaotic. Taxis are cheap but negotiate fares in advance. Ride-hailing apps work for fixed pricing. Walking works in tourist areas like Thamel. Many tourists rent motorbikes, though traffic requires confidence. Buses exist but aren't tourist-friendly.
Tips
- •Use ride-hailing apps for fair taxi prices. Otherwise, negotiate firmly before getting in.
- •Walking Thamel to Durbar Square takes 20-30 minutes and beats traffic during busy periods.
Where to Stay in Kathmandu
Thamel
The tourist hub has gear shops, restaurants, bars, and budget accommodation packed into narrow streets. It's crowded and touristy but maximally convenient. Most travelers base here for easy access to everything. Quality varies widely; research specific hotels.
Thamel
Kathmandu's nightlife concentrates in Thamel. Rooftop bars, live music venues, and restaurants stay open late. It's not sophisticated but it's lively. Places change frequently; ask around for current favorites. The scene skews backpacker.
Boudha Area
The neighborhood surrounding Boudhanath stupa has a Tibetan character with monasteries, meditation centers, and pilgrims. It's quieter than Thamel with a more spiritual atmosphere. Good restaurants and guesthouses serve the Buddhist community and visitors.
Smart Travel Tips for Kathmandu
FAQs About Flights to Kathmandu
Kathmandu is very affordable. Street food costs $1-3, restaurant meals $5-15, and decent hotels $40-80. Taxis and entry fees are cheap. Budget $30-50 daily for comfortable city exploration. Trekking adds significant costs: permits, guides, lodges.
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