Thamel buzzes with energy as Kathmandu's cultural heart and backpacker haven. Narrow cobblestone alleys overflow with shops selling traditional crafts, trekking gear, and souvenirs. Prayer flags flutter between buildings housing budget guesthouses and rooftop restaurants. Garden of Dreams provides a peaceful escape from the neighborhood's lively atmosphere. Visitors can explore ancient temples, enjoy live music venues, or bargain at Asan Bazaar. The pedestrian-friendly maze offers affordable dining from street food to international cuisine.
Lazimpat offers a multicultural retreat where embassies and expat communities create a globally connected atmosphere. The tree-lined streets lead to upscale hotels, boutique shops, and diverse restaurants serving both local and international cuisine. Garden of Dreams provides a neo-classical sanctuary with ornate pavilions and fountains. This diplomatic quarter balances refined elegance with authentic Nepalese culture. Visitors can explore the nearby Narayanhity Palace Museum or stroll along vibrant Durbar Marg. The neighborhood's sophisticated rooftop lounges provide stunning Himalayan views while international cultural events add to its cosmopolitan charm.
Circle Boudhanath Stupa with locals and pilgrims in this sacred Buddhist district of Kathmandu. Prayer flags flutter above as you explore monasteries filled with chanting monks and fragrant incense. Tibetan influence shapes this spiritual neighborhood's unique character. Wander through vibrant markets selling prayer wheels, thangka paintings, and traditional handicrafts. The area's walkable streets lead to hidden temples and authentic Tibetan restaurants. Rooftop terraces offer peaceful views of the magnificent UNESCO World Heritage stupa that dominates the skyline.
Sundhara brings Nepal's cultural heart to life through its ancient temples and bustling markets. The iconic white spire of Dharahara Tower pierces the skyline while traditional Newari architecture lines narrow alleys filled with incense and merchant calls. Colourful prayer flags flutter between red-brick buildings. New Road shopping corridor offers everything from traditional crafts to modern electronics. Wander through Khichapokhari market for authentic Pashmina shawls and intricate Thangka paintings. Temple courtyards provide peaceful green pockets away from the energetic streets.
The Gaushala area in Kathmandu centers around the sacred Pashupatinath Temple complex, Nepal's holiest Hindu site. Golden pagoda roofs rise above intricate wood carvings while funeral pyres burn along the Bagmati River. Saffron-robed sadhus meditate among smaller shrines as pilgrims perform traditional rituals. This deeply authentic religious area maintains centuries-old traditions with minimal tourism infrastructure. Simple vegetarian restaurants and budget guesthouses cater primarily to spiritual visitors. Most activity follows temple rhythms, beginning before dawn and quieting after sunset when temple bells and chanting give way to evening tranquility.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Kathmandu
Photo by Animesh Purohit
Open Photo by Animesh Purohit
Pashupatinath Temple
9.0/10 (574 reviews)
Nepal's most sacred Hindu temple, Pashupatinath honours Lord Shiva with intricate pagoda architecture along the Bagmati River. Witness spiritual rituals that offer profound insights into ancient Hindu traditions.
Boudhanath
9.2/10 (572 reviews)
The massive white dome of Boudhanath Stupa houses one of Buddhism's most sacred sites in Nepal. Join pilgrims in the ritual kora walk around the stupa while spinning prayer wheels beneath Buddha's watchful eyes.
Kathmandu Durbar Square
8.8/10 (671 reviews)
This UNESCO site displays exquisite Newar architecture through ancient temples and royal palaces. Wander among intricate wood carvings and witness the Living Goddess Kumari's residence when the square comes alive.
Durbar Marg
8.8/10 (346 reviews)
Durbar Marg, Kathmandu's King's Way, showcases Nepal's modern luxury with upscale boutiques and global brands. Explore the nearby Narayanhiti Palace Museum to glimpse the country's royal history.
Swayambhunath
9.2/10 (480 reviews)
Perched on a hill, this ancient Buddhist stupa features the iconic "Buddha Eyes" watching over Kathmandu. Climb 365 steps past playful monkeys to experience panoramic valley views and serene spiritual ambiance.
Garden of Dreams
8.6/10 (354 reviews)
This neo-classical garden offers a tranquil escape from Kathmandu's bustle with European-inspired pavilions and fountains. Enjoy the serenity on the manicured lawns or savour refreshments at the elegant Kaiser Café.
Kathmandu Civil Mall
8.2/10 (89 reviews)
Civil Mall offers six floors of international and local shopping in the heart of Kathmandu. Enjoy the vibrant food court with live music on weekends or catch the latest films at the multiplex cinema.
National Museum of Nepal
8.6/10 (24 reviews)
Explore Nepal's cultural evolution through ancient sculptures, weapons, and religious manuscripts at this national museum. Wander through courtyards showcasing Buddhist art and historical treasures.
What to do in Kathmandu
Kathmandu: Full Day Top 4 UNESCO Tour with Lunch - Private/Group
"Our stay was wonderful. Mr Tulsi, the Manager and the rest of the staff are kind, respectful, accommodating and hospitable with their guests. The hotel is clean. tidy, orderly and fresh. Breakfast is included. Food at the restaurant is delicious. If we ever go back to Kahmandu, we will stay at this hotel again. By the way, the hotel location is a stroll away from the market which is so much fun to browse and buy souvenirs. Thank you Mr. Tulsi and to your staff. Namaste"
"Extremely comfortable stay with gorgeous view of the mountains. Staff were very helpful. However, there was a large touring group in the hotel and our left luggage was mixed up with theirs and it was a mess. The baggage tag did not have the number of baggages and we had to drive back to collect one. Thank goodness that we remembered in time and didn’t drive far."
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.
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.
Offering excellent value package deals on Expedia, you'll be surprised at how little a holiday to Kathmandu costs! Expedia's packages make travel planning easier and save you more.
What are the cheapest months to go to Kathmandu?
If you're hoping to score a cheap Kathmandu holiday package, consider travelling in January, July and August. You'll generally find better rates on flights and accommodation during these months — perfect for a budget-friendly getaway.
How many days is enough for Kathmandu?
To fully enjoy a Kathmandu holiday, we recommend booking for 3 days. Split your time between visiting Natural History Museum, Akash Bhairav Temple and other must-see attractions, in addition to exploring neighbourhoods like Thamel and Lazimpat. If you've got some time to spare, include a day trip or tour in your Kathmandu holiday itinerary.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Kathmandu?
During your Kathmandu holiday, you can count on experiencing some excellent history and culture. Leave enough room in your itinerary to discover leading sights like Boudhanath and Kathmandu Durbar Square.
How to find the best Kathmandu package deals?
Start your search for a Kathmandu package deal by entering your preferred travel dates and destination under our "Packages" tab. Then apply a few filters, like "Popular locations" and "Property type," to tailor the results to your exact needs. You can also sort by "Package discount" and browse offers that come with irresistible savings. If you don't find the perfect Kathmandu package deal straight away, simply play around with your dates and search again. Remember that deals are only available for a limited time, so book early and get your Kathmandu adventure off to a flying start.
Is it cheaper to book a Kathmandu holiday as a package?
An Expedia holiday package could score you significant savings when compared to booking stays and flights individually. Better still, you can personalise your Kathmandu getaway to fit your exact needs. Pick your preferred flight time, select the hotel type and add a rental car. Explore our bundles to see how much you can save.
When to book a holiday package to Kathmandu?
If you've got your Kathmandu holiday dates locked in, book as early as you can to score some outstanding deals. With Expedia, you can generally reserve some flights up to a year in advance. Prefer spontaneous getaways? Our last-minute deals are perfect for travelling on a whim.
How to plan a trip to Kathmandu?
Choose when to get away: Check your schedule and get packing. Your preferred time of year and the available activities will also help you decide when to visit Kathmandu.
Budget wisely: As well as the cost of your hotel, you'll need to factor in other expenses too. These include flights, transportation and food. Also, put aside some extra funds for unexpected costs that could crop up during your trip to Kathmandu.
Decide how long to go for: Now that you're up to speed on Kathmandu, you can figure out the right length of your holiday. Put together a draft itinerary and allocate enough time to cover everything you want to see.
Combine your hotel and flights: Epic destination, check. Length of stay, check. All that's left is to choose a Kathmandu holiday package that brings all your bookings together.
In Kathmandu, visit the Kathmandu Civil Mall for a vibrant shopping experience with entertainment and family-friendly options. For a more traditional atmosphere, explore Asan Bazaar, bustling with local vendors and city vibes. If you're up for a drive, check out additional markets beyond the city centre for unique finds.
Experience breathtaking views at the Chandragiri Cable Car Bottom Station, located 11.3km from Kathmandu, where you can enjoy outdoor adventures with family. Ascend to the Chandragiri Cable Car Top Station, 12.9km away, for stunning vistas. For hiking enthusiasts, the Nagarkot Panoramic Hiking Trail, 19.3km distant, offers scenic beauty and adventure.
Nightlife
In Kathmandu, explore Thamel's vibrant streets filled with lively bars and nightclubs. Experience traditional music at a local tavern or dance the night away at a popular club. Don’t miss the rooftop lounges offering stunning views of the city and the Himalayas, creating a magical atmosphere.
Find the best attractions in Kathmandu
Kathmandu is an excellent destination for culture-themed and adventure holidays, offering a wealth of experiences. Explore its renowned temples, vibrant piazzas, and sacred shrines, which cater to travellers seeking cultural immersion, city exploration, and family-friendly activities. Discover the rich heritage and outdoor excitement that make Kathmandu a must-visit location in Nepal.
Pashupatinath Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Pashupatinath Temple is one of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Set on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River, it offers a profound cultural experience with its intricate architecture, vibrant rituals, and the spiritual ambience created by pilgrims and sadhus.
Kathmandu Durbar Square: Once the royal palace of the Malla kings, this historical square is filled with stunning temples and courtyards reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Nepal. The lively atmosphere showcases local life, festivals, and traditional crafts, making it a vibrant hub for both tourists and locals.
Narayanhity Palace Museum: This former royal palace turned museum offers a glimpse into the lives of the Nepali monarchy. With its opulent rooms and exhibits detailing royal history and culture, visitors can explore the grandeur of the past while gaining insight into Nepal's political evolution.
Best time to go to Kathmandu
The best time to visit Kathmandu can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Kathmandu falls in June, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with frequent rain. The coolest average temperature in Kathmandu falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Kathmandu
Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Kathmandu.
Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically January, March and September) for more affordable package holidays to Kathmandu.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.