Choose from 38 Fun Things to Do in Kathmandu
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The Himalayas and Mt Everest
Some people come to Nepal for the culture, others to learn about the local Buddhist religion, but the Himalayan country’s dramatic natural landscape is the biggest draw of all. Mt Everest, the world’s tallest peak and the crowning jewel on many a peak-bagger’s bucket list, rises 29,029 feet (8,848 meters) above sea level. Even if you aren’t planning to shell out the tens of thousands of dollars it costs to climb the peak, you’ll still find jaw-dropping scenery in spades.
The best time to enjoy the Himalayas and views of Mt Everest are from early March through the middle of May and again from early September through mid-November when temperatures are relatively warm and the skies tend to be clear and blue. From Kathmandu, it’s possible to trek into the Himalayas for a day to multiple weeks, hopping from one village to the next along the way. To see the mountains from above, take a flight tour of the Himalayas or a Mt Everest fly-by.
The best time to enjoy the Himalayas and views of Mt Everest are from early March through the middle of May and again from early September through mid-November when temperatures are relatively warm and the skies tend to be clear and blue. From Kathmandu, it’s possible to trek into the Himalayas for a day to multiple weeks, hopping from one village to the next along the way. To see the mountains from above, take a flight tour of the Himalayas or a Mt Everest fly-by.
Address: Nepal
From $ 80
Namche Bazaar
Namche Bazaar is a small, busy market town perched high in the Himalayas. It’s been on trade routes to Tibet for many centuries, and is now an essential stopping point on hikes in the Everest (Khumbu) region. As it’s located at 11,286 feet (3,440 meters), hikers and climbers stop at Namche to acclimatize before heading higher into the mountains.
The Basics
Located on a horseshoe shaped, terraced mountainside, Namche Bazaar is the Sherpa heartland, and the Tibetan-influenced culture can be seen in everything from the food to the monasteries to the locals’ clothing. It’s also full of lodges, souvenir shops, and hiker-oriented restaurants and bars. It’s the last place to stock up on essentials before traveling onwards to more remote locations.
Almost all routes in the Khumbu region, including the Everest Base Camp hike, pass through Namche. It’s also possible to use Namche as a base and take day hikes close by.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The trek from Lukla up to Namche is challenging and steep, so you need to be quite fit.
- While acclimatizing in Namche, check out a few cultural attractions, such as the Namche Monastery, Khangba Ngingma (the town’s oldest Sherpa home), and the Sherpa Museum.
- You can buy all kinds of souvenirs in Namche, but you’d have to trek with them, so it’s better to shop when you’re back in Kathmandu.
- Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, and spend at least one night in Namche before going further. Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of serious altitude sickness, and be prepared to return to lower elevation if need be.
How to Get There
There are only two ways of getting to Namche: trekking from Lukla, or taking a chartered helicopter from Kathmandu. Lukla is a 30-minute aeroplane flight from Kathmandu. From Lukla, trek for one very long day, or two more comfortable ones. Helicopters are expensive, but they’re a spectacular way to see the Everest region and a good option for travelers on a generous budget or with time limitations.
When to Get There
The best times to hike in the Khumbu region are March–May or September–November, as the weather is likely to be fine during these months. It’s important to book far ahead for flights to Lukla and accommodation in Namche if visiting during this time.
Namche Bazaar Saturday Market
If possible, time your visit to Namche so you can visit the weekly Saturday market. The ‘bazaar’ in the town’s name means market in Nepali. The town has been a Sherpa trading hub for centuries. People from nearby villages (with ‘nearby’ meaning several hours’ walk in these parts) come to shop, and it’s a lively event.
Address: Namche Bazaar, Nepal
From $ 1,045
Phakding
Phakding is a small village in the Everest region. It’s one of the first places that many hikers stop on the Everest Base Camp trek. Situated at 8,530 feet (2,600 meters), it’s at a lower elevation than Lukla—where the airport is—and thus an ideal place to acclimatize before heading higher into the mountains.
The Basics
A roughly 3-hour hike from Lukla—Phakding is a natural stopping point on the first day of the Everest Base Camp hike. The walk there from Lukla is pleasant and relatively easy, through rhododendron forests and farming villages, and is a good way to acclimatize to the higher altitudes of the Khumbu region. The village itself is typical of the area, dominated by ethnic Sherpa people, with stone houses and hikers’ teahouses.
Most hikers pass through or stop at Phakding on the Everest Base Camp trek, although there are lots of other hiking options in the area. These include the Gokyo Lakes hike, the Three High Passes hike, and the shorter Everest Panorama hike.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Depending upon time of arrival in Lukla, as well as your general fitness level, it may not be necessary to stop overnight in Phakding.
- Learn the signs of altitude sickness before heading out to the Everest region, and be prepared to head back to lower elevation if they appear.
- While there are many lodges (or teahouses) to stay at in Phakding and other settlements nearby, these fill up fast in the peak season. Hiking with a guide is the safest way and will guarantee you a place to sleep.
How to Get There
Hiking is the only way to reach Phakding. Fly to Lukla from Kathmandu (a spectacular and nail-biting flight of about 30 minutes) and then hike a gradual slope down to the village.
When to Get There
Peak hiking season in the Everest region, like most of Nepal, is spring (March–May) and fall (September–November). The weather at low and medium altitudes is warm, and skies usually clear. Hiking in winter (December–February) is possible as long as you are well prepared for the cold. Monsoon season hiking (June–August) is not advised.
Helicopter Tours
If money is not an object but time or mobility is, consider taking a helicopter tour of the Everest region. It’s a spectacular and unforgettable way to see the landscape change from the green foothills of the Himalayas to the icy, barren landscape of Everest Base Camp. Helicopters can be chartered in Kathmandu.
Address: Phakding, Nepal
From $ 1,045
Sagarmatha National Park
Sagarmatha National Park, in Nepalese meaning “the forehead of the sky”, is located in the Himalayan region in eastern Nepal and is the highest national park in the world. Since it includes Mount Everest, the park reaches an elevation of 8848 meters on the very summit. Not only does the park bring in heaps of visitors for the Mount Everest Trek to Everest Base Camp, but also to experience numerous other trails, breathtaking beauty and various craggy peaks. Due to the altitude, the vegetation in the park is rather sparse – only a small part is forested and includes trees such as firs, hemlocks, junipers, rhododendron and birches. Some other stretches of land are used for farming potatoes, but most of it is dominated by highlands of rock, snow and ice. But despite the seemingly inhospitable conditions, the biodiversity and fauna is enormous, ranging from black bears, snow leopards and yaks to smaller animals such as the wild goats named thars, red pandas, martens and marmots.
Because of its unique beauty and wild landscapes, Sagarmatha National Park isn’t only an attraction for high-altitude mountaineers and trekkers interested in the several day long march to Everest Base Camp. Even travelers who are not that fond of crazy altitudes can find enough trails and the fascinating nature of the Himalayas in the lower parts of the park. Apart from the scenery and countless hiking trails, Sherpa villages, for example the important religious center Teng Boche as well as Monju and Khumjung and monasteries, such as the Thame Gomba and the Khumjung Gomba can be visited. There is even a natural history and ethnographic museum at the visitor center in Namche Bazaar.
Please note that UNESCO listed Sagarmatha
National Park as “severely affected” by the earthquakes and subsequent
aftershocks in Nepal in late April and early May 2015. Authorities have said
they will do all they can to restore historic and cultural sites in Nepal and
are assessing the extent of damages.
Practical Info
Sagarmatha National Park is located in the extremely remote Khumbu region of eastern Nepal. To get there, you have to catch a domestic flight from Kathmandu to the regional airport in Lukla. From there, it’s a two-day hike to the park, unless you are willing to shell out some money for a helicopter transfer.
Address: Nepal
From $ 1,299
Swayambhunath
The oldest shrine complex in the Kathmandu Valley, Swayambhunath Temple was said to have been built over 2,000 years ago. Situated at the top of a winding staircase, “Monkey Temple” has one of the city’s best panoramic views. The complex, containing multiple shrines and a stupa, is considered holy to both Buddhists and Hindus.
The Basics
According to legend, UNESCO-listed Swayambhunath sprang up spontaneously from a lotus, a sacred water flower revered both in Hinduism and Buddhism. The iconic stupa—a gold, gilded spire jutting up from a prayer wheel-surrounded white base—is one of the site’s most popular attractions, but also not to be missed are the ornate temple interiors, filled with icons of Buddhist and Hindu deities. Many guided tours offer combination packages with other must-see sites—like Boudhanath or Pashupatinath—making it an ideal option for first-time visitors.
It takes only a minute to realize how “Monkey Temple” earned its popular nickname. Playful and high-energy, the temple’s furry residents have become one of the site’s additional attractions (although watch your food).
Things to Know Before You Go
- Sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists, Swayambhunath is one of the city’s top attractions.
- Knees and shoulders covered: make sure to dress modestly when entering shrines.
- Prepare for a tough climb and factor in breaks if needed: there are almost 400 steps to the top.
- Be careful when carrying food or personal belongings—monkeys have been known to snatch.
How to Get There
Swayambhunath is easily reached by most parts of Kathmandu by foot or taxi. However, you’ll have to climb up 365 steps to reach the hilltop temple complex. Many guided tours offer private pickup from your hotel, but vehicles can only park at the base of the staircase.
When to Get There
During the full moon in either April or May, Buddha’s birthday is celebrated at Swayambhunath and other Buddhist sites in Nepal. Losar, or the Tibetan New Year, takes place in February and March, and is a popular time for pilgrims to visit. Spring and fall are the mildest times temperature-wise, although Kathmandu is a year-round destination.
Rebuilding Swayambhunath
Swayambhunath temple complex was damaged during the 2015 earthquakes in Nepal, but reconstruction efforts are underway. Fear not, there is still much to see. The rebuilding effort has engaged a fleet of traditional artisans, and visitors can support local renovations by touring the site and showing interest in ongoing projects.
Address: Kathmandu 44620, Nepal
From $ 14
Langtang National Park
Basics Information
Langtang National Park was established in 1976 as Nepal's first Himalayan national park and the country's fourth protected area. It exceeds an altitudinal range of 6,450 m (21,160 ft) and covers an area of 1,710 km2 (660 sq mi) in the Nuwakot, Rasuwa and Sindhulpalchok Districts of the central Himalayan region encompassing 26 village communities. In the north and east it is linked with Qomolangma National Nature Preserve in Tibet. The western boundary follows the Bhote Kosi and Trishuli Rivers. The southern border lies 32 km (20 mi) north of the Kathmandu Valley.
The high altitude sacred Gosainkunda lake is located at an altitude of 4,300 m (14,100 ft) inside the park. The Dorje Lakpa range at 6,988 m (22,927 ft) bisects the park from west–east to south–east. The summit of Langtang Lirung (7,245 m (23,770 ft)) is the highest point in the park.
Langtang National Park is part of the Sacred Himalayan Landscape.
From $ 818
Pashupatinath
Every day, thousands of Hindu pilgrims from around the globe make their way to Pashupatinath Temple to worship the god Shiva. The temple sits on the banks of the Bagmati River just outside of Kathmandu and is not just architecturally beautiful, it’s also one of the oldest and most important Shaivite temples in the world.
The complex dates back to around 400 AD, but the current temple was rebuilt during the 17th century. According to local legends, the site of the temple was where the god Shiva hid from the rest of the gods by taking the form of an antelope. When the gods caught him, they broke off one of his horns which fell to the ground on the spot where the temple currently stands. While non-Hindus aren’t always allowed inside the main temple, those who do enter can see another phallic symbol of Shiva worshiped within.
A visit to Pashupatinath may also present the opportunity to witness a fascination -- though certainly somber -- cultural ceremony. Many Hindus bring their dead to be cremated on the steps leading down to the river just outside the temple. Often you’ll see the covered bodies paraded through the temple grounds, past hordes of monkeys and sadhus, toward the river.
The complex dates back to around 400 AD, but the current temple was rebuilt during the 17th century. According to local legends, the site of the temple was where the god Shiva hid from the rest of the gods by taking the form of an antelope. When the gods caught him, they broke off one of his horns which fell to the ground on the spot where the temple currently stands. While non-Hindus aren’t always allowed inside the main temple, those who do enter can see another phallic symbol of Shiva worshiped within.
A visit to Pashupatinath may also present the opportunity to witness a fascination -- though certainly somber -- cultural ceremony. Many Hindus bring their dead to be cremated on the steps leading down to the river just outside the temple. Often you’ll see the covered bodies paraded through the temple grounds, past hordes of monkeys and sadhus, toward the river.
Address: Pashupati Nath Road, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
From $ 20
Sarangkot
This tiny village just north of Pokhara is known for its stunning sunrises over the Annapurna Mountains. Travelers get incredible views and a taste of local village life during an overnight stay at this popular destination.
Visit the Shiva temple tucked away on the mountaintop, soak up stunning views of Phewa Lake and look for indigenous birds, leopards and tigers roaming through the natural landscapes. Adrenaline junkies can also paraglide from Sarangot, or fly down the world’s fastest zipline, which starts at the top of this famous mountain.
Practical Info
Sarangkot is accessible by foot and hikers can take the easy one-hour trail from Sedi. A local bus also transports travelers. Entry to Sarangkot is about 25Rs and the receipt grants visitors access to the best viewpoint in the area.
Address: Sarangkot, Nepal
Admission: 25Rs to enter
From $ 16
Sundarijal
Sundarijal is not only a village about 15 kilometers outside of Kathmandu, but it is also a village development zone, which encompasses big parts of Shivapuri National Park. Accordingly, the area is especially popular with trekkers and nature lovers and many people start their hikes here, one of the most popular routes leading to Chisapani, a village at over 2,200 meters, from where spectacular sunrises and sunsets can be observed. Sundarijal offers several temples, the Sundarimai Mandir, dedicated to the goddess after which Sundarijal is named, the Ganesh Mandir and the Krishna Mandir. These cultural sites are not only fascinating for tourists, but also attract many locals from Kathmandu during Buddhist and Hindu events, such as the Dashahara festival, one of the most important Hindu celebrations.
Many attractions within Sundarijal have something or other to do with water. Interesting to see is the hydropower plant and dam, which provide electricity to Sundarijal Village. But the main attractions are without a doubt the waterfalls, the tallest of which is cascading and splashing down 45 meters of rocky, overgrown cliffs. The falls are especially beautiful during the monsoon season, when the rivers carry more water and aren’t only a popular spot for photographers, but also attract groups of canyoners who want to don a harness, helmet and ropes and descend down the dashing, narrow falls for a little bit of an extra thrill.
Practical Info
Sundarijal is easy to reach from Kathmandu by bus, some of which are direct; others require a change of vehicle in Jorpati. The busses leave roughly every 30 minutes.
Address: Nepal
From $ 57
Nagi Gompa
The Nagi Gompa monastery is a nunnery located in Shivapuri National Park and can be found on the northern slopes above Budhanilkantha. At an altitude of 2,330 meters, the monastery is overlooking Kathmandu Valley and is home to over 100 nuns, who have come here to meditate and study the Buddhist scriptures in the peaceful surroundings and clean air of the green mountain landscape. Here, the focus lies not only on awakening to an enlightened nature, but also on transforming harmful mental states to love and wisdom. Nagi Gompa is one of only few monasteries offering such opportunities to female Buddhists and accordingly, the nunnery is so popular, that more women arrive from all over Nepal and Tibet every year and various expansion plans had to be put into action.
Nagi Gompa is also the perfect place for foreigners looking for a short or even longer respite. Since the nunnery serves as a retreat center, it is possible to rent a room in the monastery and stay there for days or even weeks to meditate to the sounds of drums, cymbals and chants. Although some travelers decide to stay longer, many just stop for an hour on their hikes to elsewhere to see the performance of “chöd,” a Tibetan meditation dance, which the nuns at Nagi Gompa have become famous for.
Please note that Nagi Gompa nunnery suffered
damages in the earthquake and subsequent aftershocks in Nepal in late April and
early May 2015. Several of the complex’s buildings have completely collapsed
and several others are partially destroyed. Authorities have said they will do
all they can to restore historic and cultural sites in Nepal and are assessing the extent of damages.
Practical Info
To get to Nagi Gompa, take the bus from Ratna Park in Kathmandu to Budhanilkantha, where you will have to purchase your entrance ticket to Shivapuri National Park. From there, it’s a 2-3 hour hike to the monastery, although it is possible to drive up there with a 4x4 vehicle.
Address: Shivapuri National Park, Nepal
From $ 70
Rudra Varna Mahavihar
Rudra Varna Mahavihar is an ancient Buddhist monastery located just a ten-minute walk from Durbar Square in Lalitpur (historically known as Patan). Not to be confused with Hiranya Varna Mahavihar (known as the Golden Temple) nearby, Rudra Varna Mahavihar is hidden away from the bustle of the city down a small side street.
This historic Buddhist temple was used for coronation ceremonies, with many kings being crowned under its three-tiered roof throughout the centuries. Ornate treasures adorn its walls and altars, with the courtyard featuring many elaborately carved wood, bronze, and stone statues, plus grand stone pillars and prayer wheels.
A visit to Rudra Varna Mahavihar is part of the itinerary on most Kathmandu temples and palace day tours, which include other important temples in Durbar Square, as well as the royal palace.
Insider's Tip: There are many local treasures to be found at Rudra Varna Mahavihar. Be sure to look in all the courtyard's nooks and crannies to find the best pieces.
Practical Info
Rudra Varna Mahavihar is located down a side street approximately ten minutes' walk from Durbar Square, and not far from Prayag Pokhari bus station.
Address: Near Prayag Pokhari Road, Lalitpur (Patan), Nepal
Admission: Donations welcome
From $ 60
Nagarkot
Nagarkot, a small town on the eastern edge of the Kathmandu Valley, is popular for its sunrise and sunset views of the Himalaya. On a clear day, it’s possible to see Mount Everest to the northeast and the Annapurna ranges to the northwest. There are many places to stay within Nagarkot and cultural attractions, too.
The Basics
Located just 20 miles (32 kilometers) from central Kathmandu, Nagarkot is a popular day trip for its clear mountain views. On a high ridge at 7,136 feet (2,175 meters), the town is surrounded by thick pine forests, which allow for day hikes or longer treks to surrounding towns. Guided tours often arrive for sunrise and may include a hike. Others visit as part of a longer tour or stay overnight for sunset and sunrise.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Although Nagarkot is not far from Kathmandu, poor roads mean it can take three hours to reach.
- Some accommodations in Nagarkot have mountain views—request them if that’s your preference.
- The viewing tower is a great place from which to snap a photo. Arrive well in advance of sunrise or sunset to get a good spot.
How to Get There
Nagarkot is accessible by public bus, but from Kathmandu it requires a change in Bhaktapur. The most direct way is to take a tour that includes transport, hire a taxi from Kathmandu for the day, or arrange for drop-off and next-day pickup with a driver.
When to Get There
The mountain views are clearest in winter (December-February), although it can get cold at the high altitude. November is slightly warmer, and has a high chance of clear views. Avoid Nagarkot during the monsoon (June-August), as views are generally poor and the road condition are particularly bad.
Hike to Changu Narayan
A good day hike from Nagarkot is to Changu Narayan, home to the oldest temple in Nepal. The approximately 4-hour hike is mostly downhill from Nagarkot, through forested hills, terraced farmland, and small villages. For the best experience, join a guided tour with all transportation included, or arrange to stay in Nagarkot overnight and set out for Changu Narayan in the morning. From Changu Narayan, take a bus or taxi back to Bhaktapur or Kathmandu.
Address: Kathmandu Valley, Nepal
From $ 180
Manakamana Temple
According to Hindu lore the goddess Bhagwati, an incarnation of Parvati, grants wishes to those who make a sacrifice in her name. Newlyweds praying for children and other favor seekers visit Manakamana Temple, located in Nepal’s Gorkha district, to do just that, often in the form of a goat sacrifice made in a pavilion behind the temple.
The pagoda-style temple has a history dating back to the seventeenth century, but the structure as it stands in its current form was built in the nineteenth century. While worshipers and visitors once had to make an arduous trek up uphill, today the temple is serviced by the Austrian-designed Manakamana Cable Car now makes the 1.7-mile (2.8-kilometer) journey in less than 10 minutes. From the top, the temple offers spectacular views of the Trisuli and Marshyang-di River valleys as well as the peaks of Manaslu, Himalchuli and Annapurna.
Practical Info
Visit the temple on a weekday to avoid long cable car queues.
Address: Manakamana, Nepal
From $ 79
Trisuli River
Nepal is known for its scenery and natural landscape, and the Trisuli River is no exception. Though it originates in Tibet, it is one of the tributaries of the Narayani River basin flowing through the center of Nepal. It is named for the trishula, or trident, of Shiva the Hindu god. Calm and mild for the most part, it also has some exciting rapids (which pick up in speed during monsoon season) and is a popular place to go whitewater rafting.
A trip down the river grants views of the many scenic valleys and gorges, along with rice terraces and rural Nepali villages. The green hills and banks of the river are a peaceful backdrop to the adventure of rafting. In addition to enjoying the river, there is a famous Hindu temple called Manakamana on the mountain that can be accessed via cable car.
Practical Info
The Trisuli River is located roughly 90 kilometers from Kathmandu and it takes about 3 hours to drive there. The rapids here are classified as either class II or III. The easiest point of departure is the town of Charaudi.
Address: Nepal
From $ 35
Monjo
Located in the Dudh Kosi River Valley, Monjo is a small village in the Everest region of Nepal. It’s north of Phakding, where many hikers spend the first night of the Everest Base Camp hike. While Monjo itself isn’t a necessary stopping point, at 9,301 feet (2,835 meters) it’s a good alternative to bigger and higher Namche Bazaar (11,286 feet/3,440 meters).
The Basics
Monjo is the last village hikers will reach from Lukla before the start of the Sagarmatha National Park. The park checkpoint is located here, and there’s plenty of accommodation options. The town itself is not particularly memorable, but it’s a convenient place to stop. Many people hike from Lukla to Phakding, which takes about three hours. Hikers with more stamina or who arrived in Lukla early can continue on to Monjo, which takes around six hours.
Most hikers pass through or stop at Monjo on the Everest Base Camp hike, although there are lots of other hiking options in the area. These include the Gokyo Lakes, the Three High Passes, and the shorter Everest Panorama.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Learn the signs of altitude sickness before your trip, and be prepared to return to lower elevation if they appear.
- Accommodations fill up fast in the peak season. Hiking with a guide is not only safer, it will guarantee you a place to sleep.
- While most lodges (teahouses) in the Everest region are simple and comfortable, Monjo is home to an Everest Summit Lodge, a local chain of luxury lodges.
How to Get There
Hiking is the only way to get to Monjo. Fly to Lukla from Kathmandu (a spectacular and nail-biting flight of about 30 minutes), then walk the rest of the way. Monjo is about the same altitude as Lukla, but there is some up and down along the way.
When to Get There
Peak hiking season in the Everest region, like most of Nepal, is spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). The weather at low and medium altitudes is warm, and skies usually clear. Hiking in winter (December–February) is possible as long as you are well prepared for the cold. Monsoon season (June-August) hiking is not advised.
Visit Namche Bazaar on a Saturday
Namche Bazaar is the largest town in the Everest region, located 5 miles (8 kilometers) from Monjo. If possible, aim to be there on a Saturday so you can catch the weekly market. ‘Bazaar’ means market in Nepali, and the town has been a Sherpa trading hub for centuries. People from nearby villages come to shop at the lively market.
Address: Monjo, Nepal
From $ 1,045
Shivapuri National Park
Shivapuri National Park, also called Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, forms the northern part of the Kathmandu valley and covers an area of 159 square kilometers. The park is located in the transition zone between subtropical and temperate climates, which can be observed in the parks typical plant life. In the forests, hikers will find many familiar trees and shrubs, such as pine, oak and rhododendron and especially notable are the countless orchids with their large blooms, which can be found everywhere along the way. Mushrooms grow here naturally and approximately 129 separate species of fungi have been counted.
Also not to be forgotten is the wildlife in the Shivapuri National Park, which includes the Himalayan black bear, Indian leopards, Indian civets, golden jackals and jungle cats. Rhesus monkeys perform their gymnastics in the treetops and their antics have been known to scare many a hiker sunken in thought. Since the national park forms a wide valley, the trails are especially popular with trekkers and mountain bikers, who can climb up to sights such as the Buddhist Nagi Gompa monastery, where about a hundred nuns live with spectacular views over the green valley slopes and the Himalayan backdrop. Visitors can go up even higher and follow the trail up to over 2,700 meters to the second highest peak of Kathmandu Valley. At the very top, the origin of the Bagmati river, one of the main sources of drinking water in the valley, flows out of the mouth of two tigers – an imposing sight.
Practical Info
The border of Shivapuri National Park is located about 12 kilometers from Kathmandu and it’s best to arrive there by car – either in a rented vehicle or by taxi. If you aren’t into hiking, you can even enter the park by car and drive as far up as Nagi Gompa, but only if your vehicle has a 4x4 drive. It is also possible to take the bus to Budhanilkantha and trek to the park entrance from there and quite a few people even opt to do the whole journey on a mountain bike.
Address: Sundarijal, Nepal
From $ 57
Sauraha Village
The gateway to the Chitwan National Park, Sauraha is located on Nepal’s jungle-filled plains (called the Terai). It’s not the small, local village it used to be—it’s now filled with tourist-oriented businesses, hotels, and restaurants. But it’s a convenient place to stay if you’re looking to explore the park on a safari or a boat ride.
The Basics
Sauraha is an easy place to stay to access the Chitwan National Park, home to Bengal tigers, rhinoceros, leopards, freshwater crocodiles, and an abundance of birds. Jungle used to cover the entire Terai region of Nepal, but now it’s restricted to pockets of national park and wildlife reserve. The area is also home to the Tharu people, and travelers can visit Tharu villages, see cultural performances, and learn about this ethnic group.
Travelers normally spend a two or three nights in Sauraha, and there are accommodations for every budget. Safari and other nature and wildlife-spotting packages can be pre-booked or arranged after arrival.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Some tour operators still offer elephant-back safaris. These are not recommended because of the cruel way that elephants are trained. Jeep or ox-cart safaris are preferable.
- Hundreds of one-horned rhinoceros live in Chitwan because of a successful breeding program. Visitors are almost guaranteed a sighting.
- There’s an entry fee for the park, with different prices for Nepalis, citizens of SAARC countries, and other visitors. Tickets are valid for one day.
How to Get There
Sauraha is about 100 miles (160 kilometers) from Kathmandu, and 93 miles (150 kilometers) from Pokhara. Buses leave from both cities early in the morning and take five to seven hours. Buses drop visitors off just outside Sauraha, where transfers can be arranged with tour operators and hotels. The nearest airport is Bharatpur, which is about 6 miles (10 kilometers) away. Take a taxi from outside the airport to Sauraha.
When to Get There
Sauraha is very hot and humid for much of the year, with a short, cold, and foggy winter. The best time to visit the park is in the cooler months, between October and March. Late January through to March is especially good as the tall elephant grass that grows in the jungle is cut back, making it easier to spot wildlife.
Visit Barauli
While Sauraha can get quite busy during peak season, for a more peaceful, less tourist-filled base for the Chitwan National Park, stay at Barauli. While Sauraha is to the east of the park, on the Rapti River, Barauli is to the west, on the Narayani River. There are a few homestays and higher-end accommodation options in Barauli, but few other businesses targeting travelers.
Address: Sauraha Village, Nepal
From $ 460
Thamel District
Thamel is the beating heart of Kathmandu’s traveler scene. Hiking and rafting businesses, hotels, restaurants, cafes, bars, and souvenir shops are jam-packed into the narrow streets of Thamel. While Thamel is hardly typical of the rest of Kathmandu, it’s a lively place to spend time, and is convenient for planning your travels around Nepal.
The Basics
Thamel offers practically everything a visitor to Nepal needs, whether that’s a waterproof jacket, a decent coffee, or a new tattoo. While it’s sometimes dismissively called a tourist ghetto, that isn’t entirely fair. Many Nepalis live and work in Thamel, and there are pockets of traditional culture that include temples and old Newari buildings. But if you’re craving Israeli food or pizza, you’ll find these in Thamel, too.
Things to Know Before You Go
- In late 2017, several of the main streets of Thamel were pedestrianized. It is now quite comfortable to walk around.
- Thamel is home to some children who live on the street and beg. It’s not advisable to give them money.
- Thamel is not generally dangerous, but it’s a good idea to be extra careful with your valuables, especially when out at night.
- Hotels along Thamel Marg can be noisy on weekend nights, with the sound of bars and live music nearby.
How to Get There
When staying in Kathmandu, there’s a high chance you’ll be staying in Thamel. It’s about a 20-minute taxi ride from the airport. Along with Durbar Marg (a short walk or drive to the east), Thamel is considered central Kathmandu. Kathmandu’s white taxis gather just outside the entrance to Thamel, on Tridevi Sadak and Narsingh Chowk. Wherever you go in Kathmandu you’ll easily be able to find your way back to Thamel in a taxi.
When to Get There
Thamel is busiest during the peak tourist seasons in Nepal, March-May and September-November. Many of the shops are shut on Saturdays, Nepal’s day of rest. While Thamel is home to many bars and clubs, most places aren’t allowed to stay open beyond midnight, so you’ll find that even the streets of Thamel empty out in the dead of night.
Walk to the Durbar Square or Swayambhunath
On Saturdays, when Kathmandu’s traffic thins, it’s possible to walk comfortably from Thamel to the iconic sights of the Durbar Square (to the south) or Swayambhunath Stupa (on a hill to the west). Both places take around half an hour to reach on foot, and walking is a good way to get a feel for the architecture, markets, and general everyday life on the streets of Kathmandu.
Address: Thamel, Kathmandu, Nepal
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