Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is a vibrant and bustling city that offers an exciting mix of ancient traditions and modern developments. The city is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious food. If you’re planning a trip to Kathmandu, there are plenty of things to do and see. In this article, we’ll explore the 12 best things to do in Kathmandu, Nepal.
Explore Durbar Square
Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is located in the heart of Kathmandu. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city and is home to many temples, palaces, and shrines. Some of the must-see places in Durbar Square include the Hanuman Dhoka Palace, the Taleju Temple, and the Kumari Bahal.
Visit Swayambhunath Stupa
Swayambhunath Stupa is a famous Buddhist temple that is located on a hilltop in Kathmandu. It is also known as the Monkey Temple because of the many monkeys that live in the area. The temple complex is surrounded by prayer wheels, shrines, and statues. The view of Kathmandu from the top of the hill is breathtaking.
Hike to Nagarkot
Nagarkot is a small village that is located about an hour’s drive from Kathmandu. It is known for its stunning views of the Himalayas, and it is a popular destination for hiking and trekking. The hike to Nagarkot is relatively easy and takes about 4-5 hours. The best time to visit Nagarkot is during the winter months when the skies are clear.
Take a Mountain Flight
If you want to see the Himalayas but don’t want to go on a long trek, you can take a mountain flight from Kathmandu. The flight takes about an hour and offers stunning views of Mount Everest and other Himalayan peaks. The best time to take a mountain flight is during the winter months when the skies are clear.
Visit Pashupatinath Temple
Pashupatinath Temple is one of the most important Hindu temples in the world. It is located on the banks of the Bagmati River and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple complex is home to many other smaller temples and shrines, and it is also a popular destination for cremation ceremonies.
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Shop at Thamel
Thamel is a popular tourist district in Kathmandu that is known for its many shops, restaurants, and cafes. It is the perfect place to buy souvenirs, clothing, and handicrafts. Some of the must-visit shops in Thamel include the Himalayan Java Coffee Shop, the Tibetan Handicraft Center, and the Traditional Paper Crafts Shop.
Explore the Patan Museum
Patan Museum is located in the city of Patan, which is a short drive from Kathmandu. The museum is home to a vast collection of ancient art and artifacts, including sculptures, paintings, and metalwork. The museum is housed in an old palace, which adds to the charm of the museum.
Visit the Garden of Dreams
The Garden of Dreams is a beautiful neo-classical garden that is located in the heart of Kathmandu. The garden is known for its tranquil atmosphere, stunning architecture, and beautiful fountains. It is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.
Take a Cooking Class
If you’re interested in learning more about Nepalese cuisine, you can take a cooking class in Kathmandu. The classes are usually held in local homes and teach you how to make traditional Nepalese dishes like momos and dal bhat. It’s a great way to learn more about the local culture and cuisine.
Experience Nepalese Culture at the Nepali Chulo Restaurant
The Nepali Chulo Restaurant is a popular restaurant in Kathmandu that offers traditional Nepalese cuisine and cultural performances. The restaurant is decorated with traditional Nepalese art and artifacts, and the cultural performances include music, dance, and singing.
Explore the Boudhanath Stupa
Boudhanath Stupa is one of the largest stupas in the world and is located in the Boudha district of Kathmandu. The stupa is surrounded by prayer wheels, prayer flags, and many other smaller stupas. It is a popular destination for both tourists and locals and is an important site for Tibetan Buddhism.
Take a Day Trip to Bhaktapur
Bhaktapur is a beautiful medieval town that is located about an hour’s drive from Kathmandu. It is known for its stunning architecture, narrow alleys, and many temples and shrines. Some of the must-see places in Bhaktapur include the Durbar Square, the Nyatapola Temple, and the Pottery Square.
In conclusion, Kathmandu is a vibrant and bustling city that offers an exciting mix of ancient traditions and modern developments. There are plenty of things to do and see in Kathmandu, from exploring Durbar Square to taking a cooking class and visiting the many temples and stupas in the city. Whether you’re a history buff or a foodie, there’s something for everyone in Kathmandu.
FAQs
- What is the best time to visit Kathmandu?
- The best time to visit Kathmandu is from September to November or from February to April.
- What is the currency used in Nepal?
- The currency used in Nepal is the Nepalese rupee.
- What is the traditional Nepalese dish?
- The traditional Nepalese dish is called dal bhat, which consists of lentil soup, rice, and a vegetable curry.
- Is it safe to travel to Kathmandu?
- Yes, Kathmandu is generally a safe city for tourists. However, like any other city, it’s important to take basic precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
- What are some other popular tourist destinations in Nepal?
- Some other popular tourist destinations in Nepal include Pokhara, Chitwan National Park, and the Annapurna Circuit.
