Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is the hub of numerous world heritage sites. Along with its rich and vast culture, the capital city is the largest urban city in the Himalayan region. Kathmandu, which is located 1400 mt above sea level, is visited by travelers from all over the world. Swayambhunath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, Monkey Temple, Boudha Stupa, Patan Durbar Square, Basantapur Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Garden of Dreams, etc. are some of the best places to visit in Kathmandu.
From tourist places in Kathmandu like Budha Nilkant, presenting the view of the large reclining statue of Lord Vishnu to Jagannath Temple and Dakshinkali Temple, where you can witness old rituals and traditions, the city of Kathmandu lets you explore the antiques and relics of the kings who once used to rule the country of Nepal.
9 Best Places to Visit in Kathmandu
- Durbar Square Kathmandu
- Boudhanath Stupa
- Pashupatinath Temple
- Taudaha Lake
- Kopan Monastery
- Chandragiri Hills
- Budhanilkantha Temple
- Garden Of Dreams
- Kasthamandap
Durbar Square Kathmandu
Explore the unique culture and vast history of Kathmandu by visiting Durbar Square. The Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in front of the former Kathmandu Palace Kingdom. The place earlier was known for vivid showcases of artists and craftsmen. The place is beautifully decorated and the overall areas reflect the beauty of Nepalese culture.
Highlights: Durbar Square has a museum, which is open to visitors. The place is also home to Kumari Chok, one of the main attractions of Nepal. Here, a gilded cage contains Kumari, a girl who was chosen to be the human reincarnation of the Hindu Goddess- Durga.
Location: Durbar Square, Kathmandu.
Timings: From early morning to night.
Boudhanath Stupa
As per the beliefs, the Boudhanath Stupa was constructed after the death of Buddha. It is one of the popular world heritage sites, home to more than 50 monasteries. The unique architecture is constructed by using a heavy amount of gold and is an awe-inspiring monument in Nepal.
Location: Boudha Rd, Kathmandu Metropolitan City-6, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
Highlight: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest stupas in the world, the Boudhanath Stupa holds significant importance in Buddhism.
Entry fees- Rs 250/- for foreigners
Pashupatinath Temple
Pashupatinath is a Hindu temple located on the bank of the Bagmati river and is among the kathmandu tourist places. Travelers can watch Hindu cremation being done here with all the rituals by entering the temple, the place is absolutely worthy in case you want to witness Hindu culture. You can also take a guide who will brief you about the Hindu religion and its significance.
Highlights: The complex is listed among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites’ for decades.The temple has 275 holy abodes of Shiva and the architecture of this temple is built in Nepalese pagoda-style of architecture.
Location: Pashupati Nath Road 44621, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
Taudaha Lake
Taudaha Lake is a small lake located on the outskirts of Kathmandu. The name of this lake comes from mythology, where it is believed that a Buddhist mythical character Manjushree had cut the hill to wash his hair in the lake. However, due to the draining of the lake, numerous nagas, and mythological creatures who were half snakes and half humans became homeless.
Thus an underwater lake or Taudaha was built. This lake is an ideal destination for birdwatchers looking for different places to go in Kathmandu.
Location: Kathmandu District, Kirtipur.
Kopan Monastery
Established by Lama Thubten Yeshe, Kopan monastery is a sacred Buddhist site worldwide. Situated on the hilltop north of Bodhnath, the monastery is a pleasant place to explore and study Buddhism. Kopan Monastery is a serene place and among the picnic spot in Kathmandu, located far away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Here apart from witnessing the Tibetan culture, one can enroll in a meditation course being offered at the monastery. If you want some peace and want a break from your hectic schedule, enjoy a yoga session here.
Highlights: Kopan Monastery is best known for its books on Buddhist psychology and philosophy. The travelers can enjoy a pleasant walk from Bodhnath and Gokarna Mahadev Temple.
Location: Kopan Monastery, Nepal.
Price: Free entry.
Chandragiri Hills
Chandragiri happens to be a municipality in Kathmandu located to the southwest of the capital city of Kathmandu. It is among the places to visit in kathmandu for couples for a one-day trip. The most amazing part of this place is the spectacular views of the great Himalayan mountain ranges, which you can have from the top. Click some photos with your loved ones capturing the snow-covered crest of the mountain ranges.
Location: South-west of the Kathmandu
Distance from Kathmandu: 12.8 km
Budhanilkantha Temple
Budhanilkantha Temple is a holy place where you can see the unique statue of the sleeping Vishnu. Located below the Shivapuri Hill at the northern end of Kathmandu Valley, this temple is very popular for its large reclining statue of Lord Vishnu and thus is visited by lakhs of tourists every year. A maximum number of tourists visit this place on the occasion of Haribodhini Ekadashi Mela which is organized every single year on the 11th day of Kartik Month of the Hindu Calendar.
Location: Budhanilkantha 44606, Nepal
Garden Of Dreams
Take a walk in this garden, which is designed quite similar to the pattern of a European garden. Enjoy the pleasant surrounding and scenic beauty of the place with your loved ones and give a treat of nature to yourself.
Location: Tridevi Sadak, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
Kasthamandap
Kasthamandap is a three-storied public shelter housing a shrine consecrated to Gorakshanath situated at Maru. There are numerous stories and myths associated with the construction of one of the most loved tourist places in Kathmandu. As per the beliefs, this building was built in the 7th century during the Licchavi Era. Kasthamandap was constructed from the wood of a single sal tree and as per the legends, earlier the place was being used as shelter but now it is converted into a place of worship.
Highlights: Architecture crafted from a single tree of Sal
Location: Kathmandu Durbar Square, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
Best Outdoor Activities in Kathmandu
Some of the best outdoor activities to enjoy in Kathmandu:
- Hike to Langtang National Park
- Witness Mt. Everest with a helicopter ride
- Enjoy a hot air balloon ride
- Do water adventures such as kayaking and rafting
- Indulge in activities like bungee jumping, trekking, and rock climbing
Climate in Kathmandu
Summer Season. During the summer season, places located at high altitude experience a subtropical highland climate while the remaining places are in the humid subtropical zone. Spring to early summer is the best time to visit Kathmandu.
Monsoon Season in Kathmandu
The monsoon season begins from July to August, bringing a considerable amount of rainfall all over the valley. Rainfall in Nepal decreases substantially from west to east, while Kathmandu is located on the eastern side of it, and gets plenty of rainfall.
Winter Season in Kathmandu
The Winter season in Kathmandu has a pleasant climate. But it is not so colder. Except for a few stray occasions, the temperature does not go down below freezing point and you can explore different places.
How to reach Kathmandu
By air: Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu is the primary international airport in Nepal connecting Nepal to the rest of the world. Numerous direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore, Varanasi, etc. operate here.
By road: Travelers can also reach Kathmandu from India via road. Many buses operate from various major cities to Kathmandu, the travelers from India can directly take buses from the Indian cities of Gorakhpur and Patna.
By rail: The travelers can take the train from Jainagar to Janakpur in Nepal and from there reach Kathmandu.
Conclusion
Enjoy the best of your tour by exploring these best places to visit in Kathmandu and be a part of its year-old heritage and culture. But before packing your bags, book a customized Nepal holiday package with Honeymoon Bug and get everything planned as per your budget.
FAQs About Best Places to Visit in Kathmandu
What are the main attractions to visit in Kathmandu?
A few of the beautiful places in Kathmandu include Kopan Monastery, Basantapur Dabali, Chandragiri Hills, Garden Of Dreams, Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, Budhanilkantha, Asan, Narayanhiti Palace Museum, Local Women’s Handicraft, and more.
What is the most preferred time to visit Kathmandu?
The most preferred time to visit Kathmandu is during the autumn season from September to November, as the temperature varies from 9°C to 20°C. During this time, the weather in Kathmandu is quite pleasant making outdoor activities possible.
Where can I shop in Kathmandu?
If you wish to buy some souvenirs and gifts in Kathmandu, then you can head to 1905 Farmer’s Market, Asan Market, New Road Gate, Organic Agro Market, The Art Market, and NexUs Night Market.
Name some of the popular dishes of Nepalese cuisine.
Try delicacies like Momos, Yomari, Dhido, Dal Bhat, Sel Roti Samosa, Gorkhali Lamb, Choila, Thukpa, Gundruk, Chatamari, Juju Dhau, Samay Baji, and Tongba.
