Kathmandu
Kathmandu, Nepal's ancient capital, is a sensory explosion of Hindu temples, Buddhist stupas, and Himalayan culture that costs a fraction of comparable heritage destinations. Your dollar stretches remarkably far here, with world-class trekking gateways, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and vibrant street food all within easy reach.
Why go to Kathmandu
Boudhanath Stupa
One of the world's largest Buddhist stupas, ringed by monasteries and prayer flags, a living, spinning, incense-soaked wonder
Pashupatinath Temple
Nepal's holiest Hindu shrine on the sacred Bagmati River, with riverside ghats and sadhus that make for an unforgettable, otherworldly experience
Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)
Ancient hilltop stupa with panoramic Kathmandu valley views, resident monkeys, and centuries of Buddhist iconography
Bhaktapur Durbar Square
A perfectly preserved medieval city-state with intricately carved pagodas and palaces that feel untouched by the modern world
Thamel & Asan Bazaar
Kathmandu's legendary traveler hub and historic market labyrinth, thangka paintings, spices, and chaotic color at every turn
Make it real
Add your details for real flights and an exact budget you can share.
Good to know in Kathmandu
- Transit: Use local microbuses and tempos for $0.15-0.30 per ride; taxis are plentiful but always negotiate the fare before getting in, apps like Pathao and InDrive help fix prices
- Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated, round up or tip 50-100 NPR (~$0.40-0.75) at local restaurants; 10% is generous at nicer spots
- Tap water: Do NOT drink tap water, buy large 20L refill bottles from shops for ~$0.50 or use a Steripen/filter; most guesthouses offer free filtered water
- Free entry: Pashupatinath Temple outer areas are free to walk; Swayambhunath grounds can be entered free via the back path, and many public squares have no enforced ticket booth early morning