About Kathmandu
Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is a breathtaking destination. And, that's not just because of the altitude.
This sprawling metropolis has so much to explore, you'll never want to leave. Find your ideal vacation rental on FlipKey and see how long you stay.
About Kathmandu, Nepal
Peace and quiet is one thing you won't get in the city center of Kathmandu. The sights, smells and sounds are intoxicating and will pique your curiosity as soon as you're off the plane.
Kathmandu is the largest metropolis in Nepal and is 1,400 meters above sea level, so it's best to let your body acclimatize before you do any hardcore exploring.
Not only is it the gateway to the Nepalese Himalayas, it's the thriving center of Nepal's history, art, culture and economy. So, naturally there's lots to see and do during your trip.
The history of the area spans back to at least 185 AD and is swathed in local myths and legends. Make sure you check out the National Museum of Nepal to uncover them all.
The area is not only popular with tourists—Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims come here to visit the many religious sites and pay their respects.
Throughout the city, there are hundreds of examples of traditional art and sculpture. Look out for icons made from wood, stone, metal and terracotta—they've probably been there for centuries.
What to do in Kathmandu, Nepal
There's lots to do in Kathmandu. Even if you just take in the city, there may be too much for one week. So, why not extend that vacation a little further?
Make sure you visit Asan—a bazaar and ceremonial square on the old trade route to Tibet. Here, you'll see a genuine traditional Nepalese neighborhood and can find some great souvenirs at the market.
There are seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu. You really should try to see them all. This includes three preserved Durbar squares—“the place of palaces”—in the valley.
Another site is the Pashupatinath temple. Built in the 5th century and dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, this is a place of great religious importance.
And, tucked in the middle of a line of houses lies another World Heritage Site—Boudhanath. This is one of the holiest Buddhist sites in Nepal.
Even if you don't make it to all the UNESCO sites, you'll see plenty of hidden gems just by wandering through the backstreets of Kathmandu, including several temples and monuments.
Top travel tips for Kathmandu, Nepal
Thamel is the place for travelers. Here there are plenty of restaurants, shops and bookstores created for the tourist industry.
You can walk round Kathmandu, but we suggest traveling by rickshaw to save your feet.
Kathmandu is home to the only international airport in Nepal. However, you‘ll probably have to change at least once to get there. Double check your ticket before you leave!
For the adventurous nature lovers, try trekking in the valley. The Nagarkot trail is an especially good spot for watching the sun rise and set.
Explore the wonders of Nepal in Kathmandu and learn a little about the culture while you're there.
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