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The eaves of the pagodas, the smells from the street stalls and the vibrant people all combine to make Kathmandu a truly intoxicating and evocative city.
Historical Kathmandu
Formerly three separate kingdoms, Patan, Bhaktapur and Kathmandu, these city-states were united during the late 18th century to create modern Nepal but still retain their individual characters.
Today the city’s center is Durbar square where temples, palaces and golden gates combine into a magical outdoor theater.
Explore Kathmandu
Take time to explore the narrow streets, further squares and temples and you will finally reach Bhaktapur and Potters' Square.
who's been there
Start planning your tailor-made trip to Kathmandu by calling one of our Nepal specialists at 1-855-838-8480
Suggested itineraries featuring Kathmandu
Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Kathmandu, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
Discover Nepal
Classic Tibet tour
Central Bhutan
Map of Kathmandu
Places & hotels on the map
Places near Kathmandu
- Kathmandu Valley 5 miles away
- Bhaktapur 8 miles away
- Nagarkot 13 miles away
- Dhulikhel 16 miles away
- Terai 45 miles away
- Kurintar 45 miles away
- Chitwan National Park 54 miles away
- Bandipur 58 miles away
- Seti River 61 miles away
- Mende 84 miles away
- Namche Bazaar 86 miles away
- Monjo 87 miles away
- Lukla 87 miles away
- Tashinga 88 miles away
- Pokhara 89 miles away
- Pangboche 92 miles away
- Everest Base Camp 96 miles away
- Tanchock 97 miles away
- Dhampus 98 miles away
- Birethanti 98 miles away
- The Everest region 101 miles away
- Annapurna 101 miles away
- Ghandruk 103 miles away
- Lumbini 127 miles away
- Bardia National Park 234 miles away
Photos of Kathmandu
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![Bodnath Square, Kathmandu, Nepal]()
Bodnath Square, Kathmandu, Nepal -
![Bodnath Stupa, Kathmandu, Nepal]()
Bodnath Stupa, Kathmandu, Nepal -
![Sadus at Pashupatinath, Kathmandu, Nepal]()
Sadus at Pashupatinath, Kathmandu, Nepal -
![Swayambhunath, Kathmandu]()
Swayambhunath, Kathmandu -
![Boudhanath Stupa, Kathmandu, Nepal]()
Boudhanath Stupa, Kathmandu, Nepal -
![Durbar Square, Kathmandu, Nepal]()
Durbar Square, Kathmandu, Nepal -
![Bodnath Stupa, Kathmandu, Nepal]()
Bodnath Stupa, Kathmandu, Nepal -
![Bodnath Stupa, Kathmandu]()
Bodnath Stupa, Kathmandu
Accommodation choices for Kathmandu
We’ve selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Kathmandu. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.
Dwarika's Hotel
Part hotel, part museum, Dwarika’s combines traditional style and heaps of character with excellent service and modern facilities, making a fascinating place to stay while you explore the many attractions of Kathmandu.
The Inn
An exquisitely converted traditional Newari house, the Inn is a charming heritage hotel in the heart of Patan, the "City of Fine Arts".
Kathmandu Guest House
A converted Rana dynasty mansion, Kathmandu Guest House has become somewhat of an institution. One of Kathmandu's most popular hotels due to its location in the busy hub of Thamel.
Hyatt Hotel
The Hyatt Regency is a luxury 5 star city hotel. The rooms are modern in design, well appointed and comfortable. For a city hotel it has surprisingly much character and it comes with all the facilities one would expect from a Hyatt property including a choice of dining options.
Hotel Tibet International
Situated in Boudnath just five minutes walk from Boundath Stupa, Hotel Tibet International has all of the modern facilities needed from a hotel along with loads of Tibetan decor and charm.
Yak & Yeti
Yak and Yeti is a large 5 star property situated in the heart of Kathmandu. The hotel is famous for the many woodcarvings and chandeliers dating back hundreds of years. Facilities include a good pool, health club, casino and a couple of good restaurants.
Tibet Hotel
This lovely little property is full of character and located only a 15 minutes walk from the Thamel area; the tourist heart of Kathmandu. The atmosphere is friendly and the staff helpful. Many of the rooms have recently been renovated with nice bathrooms and comfortable beds.
Ideas for experiencing Kathmandu
Our specialists seek out authentic ways to get to know the places that could feature in your trip. These activities reflect some of the experiences they've most enjoyed while visiting Kathmandu, and which use the best local guides.
Bodnath stupa & Pashupatinath
Drive a short distance from Kathmandu to Bodnath where you will see one of the largest stupas in Nepal. A small Tibetan settlement has developed around this important religious sight.
Half day excursion to Bhaktapur and Changu Narayan
Bhaktapur lies only a short distance from the capital, but it could be another planet, so great is the difference in the atmosphere and sense of history.
Scenic Everest Flight
Take one of the scenic mountain flights to view the high peaks of the Everest and Makalu ranges.