Kathmandu

Travel Guide

A large white stupa with colorful prayer flags and a golden spire.
A large golden stupa with colorful prayer flags in front.
A street with traditional buildings and a large stone lion statue.
A large Buddha statue with a red-roofed temple in the background.
A multi-tiered pagoda with red and white colors, set against a blue sky with clouds.

Spend time in Kathmandu to explore significant temples, bustling markets, and unique neighborhoods that reflect the city's rich heritage.

Kathmandu is an ideal destination for culture and outdoor travelers. You can explore significant religious sites like Pashupatinath Temple and visit the historic Kathmandu Durbar Square. For a taste of local life, Asan Bazaar offers a bustling market atmosphere, while Kathmandu Civil Mall provides a modern shopping experience. If you're looking for outdoor activities, the nearby Kathmandu Valley is known for adventure tourism, and the Royal Nepal Golf Course presents a venue for golf enthusiasts.

Take time to wander Kathmandu's neighborhoods, each with its own character. Gaushala and New Baneshwor are known for cultural city experiences; in Gaushala, you can visit the Charumati Stupa and the National Birendra Art Gallery, while New Baneshwor features attractions like the Seto Macchendranath Temple. Another area to explore is Thamel, recognized for outdoor and adventure experiences, where you can find the Temples of the Elements and Kathesimbhu Stupa.

The best time to visit Kathmandu is from March to April, when the weather is mild and mostly dry. During these months, you can expect pleasant conditions for exploring the city. From May to September, the region experiences wetter months, which may affect outdoor activities. While demand remains steady throughout the year, it tends to be quieter in May and from October to November, offering a less crowded experience for visitors.

Where to stay in Kathmandu

Find the best Kathmandu areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Kathmandu
Learn more about Kathmandu

Thamel

Unique features of Thamel include the shopping and cafes. Make a stop by Garden of Dreams or Asan Bazaar while you're exploring the area.

Lazimpat

Gardens, restaurants, and historic sites are some highlights of Lazimpat. You might stop by Ballys Casino or Narayanhity Palace Museum while you're in the area.

Boudhha

Gardens and spas are notable features of Boudhha. You might consider a stop by Boudhanath while you're exploring the neighborhood.

Sundhara

If you're spending some time in Sundhara, Kathmandu Civil Mall and Bhimsen Tower (Dharahara) are top sights worth seeing.

Gaushala

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Gaushala and surrounding area, you can visit Pashupatinath Temple and Royal Nepal Golf Course.

Oasis Kathmandu Hotel

Oasis Kathmandu Hotel

3 out of 5
Keshar Mahal Marg, Thamel Kathmandu
$35 nightly
The price is $40 total per night from Nov 14 to Nov 15
$40 total
Nov 14 - Nov 15
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Kathmandu. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (360 reviews)
"Very good"

Reviewed on Nov 12, 2026

Oasis Kathmandu Hotel
Hotel Yak & Yeti

Hotel Yak & Yeti

5 out of 5
Durbar Marg Kathmandu
$102 nightly
The price is $117 total per night from Dec 13 to Dec 14
$117 total
Dec 13 - Dec 14
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this luxury hotel in Kathmandu. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Popular attractions Kathmandu Durbar Square and Pashupatinath ...
Hotel Yak & Yeti
Kathmandu Marriott Hotel

Kathmandu Marriott Hotel

5 out of 5
Manakamana Marg Kathmandu
$195 nightly
The price is $225 total per night from Dec 2 to Dec 3
$225 total
Dec 2 - Dec 3
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this luxury hotel in Kathmandu. Enjoy free parking, a full-service spa, and 2 restaurants. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (242 reviews)
"Excellent . Spa could have been cleaner and steam room ."

Reviewed on Nov 10, 2026

Kathmandu Marriott Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Boudha Apart Hotel

Boudha Apart Hotel

3 out of 5
Ramhiti Boudha Rd Kathmandu Bagmati Province
Stay at this aparthotel in Kathmandu. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Popular attractions Boudhanath and Pashupatinath Temple are located ...
10/10 Exceptional! (2 reviews)
"I had such a wonderful stay here and would absolutely recommend it to anyone visiting the area. The room was clean, comfortable, and very well maintained, and the location is perfect with shops nearby and easy access to everything you might need. What truly made this place special, though, was the ..."

Reviewed on Apr 22, 2026

Boudha Apart Hotel
Superb 3-bedroom apartment with AC in peaceful Kathmandu WiFi and hot water

Superb 3-bedroom apartment with AC in peaceful Kathmandu WiFi and hot water

Kathmandu Bagmati Province
Stay at this apartment in Kathmandu. Enjoy laundry facilities and air conditioning. Popular attractions Boudhanath and Pashupatinath Temple are located ...
Superb 3-bedroom apartment with AC in peaceful Kathmandu WiFi and hot water
Paru Home 2bhk Apartment 1

Paru Home 2bhk Apartment 1

Kathmandu Bagmati Province
Stay at this apartment in Kathmandu. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Kathmandu Durbar Square and Pashupatinath Temple ...
Paru Home 2bhk Apartment 1
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Kathmandu attractions

Things to do

Frequently asked questions

Is Kathmandu worth visiting?
Kathmandu is worth visiting for its significant cultural attractions, including Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath. Travelers can also explore distinct areas like Thamel and Boudhha, and enjoy diverse Asian and Italian dining experiences.
When is the best time to visit Kathmandu?
The best time to visit Kathmandu is from May through September, when the climate is generally warm. For travelers seeking fewer crowds and potentially better value, the quieter month of January offers a cooler season to explore the city.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in Kathmandu?
The best neighborhoods to explore in Kathmandu depend on what you want to see:

  • Thamel is known for its cultural sites, including Asan Bazaar, Kathesimbhu Stupa, and the Three Goddesses Temples.
  • Boudhha offers a spiritual experience with monasteries like Ka-Nying Shedrub Ling Monastery, Shechen Monastery, and Riwoche Monastery.

What is Kathmandu known for?
Kathmandu, also known as the 'Kathmandu Metropolitan City', is known for its important religious sites like Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath. Travelers can also explore the historic Kathmandu Durbar Square and enjoy a strong Asian food culture in this riverside city, situated on the Bisnumati River and Bagmati River.
What is a good itinerary length for Kathmandu?
A good itinerary length for Kathmandu is two to three days to experience key highlights like Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. For a deeper dive, consider four to five days, allowing more time to explore neighborhoods like Thamel and Boudhha, or take a private tour of the UNESCO Heritage Sites. See Kathmandu Activities.
What are the top things to do in and around Kathmandu?
Kathmandu offers a rich blend of historic landmarks, cultural areas, and serene natural spaces for travelers to explore:


How do I plan a trip to Kathmandu?
Plan your Kathmandu trip by searching Expedia for hotels in areas like Thamel or Boudhha. Book flights and rental cars early. Explore attractions such as Pashupatinath Temple and Kathmandu Durbar Square, or take a Private Tour of 4 UNESCO Heritage Sites. For outdoor activities, have indoor alternatives ready for weather flexibility.
What cuisines can you find in Kathmandu?
In Kathmandu you can find Tibetan cuisine, featuring dishes like momos, thukpa, thenthuk, and shapta. Travelers also have options for other Asian flavors such as Chinese, Indian, and Japanese, alongside Italian and various European dishes. You'll also find many coffee shops and tea houses.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Kathmandu?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Kathmandu by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Kathmandu with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Kathmandu trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Kathmandu?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Kathmandu can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Kathmandu trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Kathmandu trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Kathmandu trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Kathmandu trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Kathmandu?
If it's your first trip to Kathmandu, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Kathmandu hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Kathmandu hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

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