Planning Your Trip to Kathmandu

Most travelers opt to make Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, a brief layover en route to trekking the Himalayas. The rationale is straightforward: Kathmandu is bustling, lacking in public transportation infrastructure, and plagued by perpetual traffic jams without a single traffic signal in sight. However, upon spending time here, one may find themselves unexpectedly drawn to the city's charm. Many arrive intending a short stay only to extend it to six months. The allure becomes apparent when exploring the streets. There's a palpable essence while wandering among the Hindu pagodas of Durbar Square and catching the scent of incense drifting from Buddhist stupas. Witnessing the first sunset over Nepal from a rooftop is an enchanting experience. As the sun dips behind the verdant foothills of the Himalayas, Kathmandu and its chaos seem to dissolve beneath your feet, leaving a profound sense of peace.

24 Hours in Kathmandu

For those with just a day in Kathmandu, likely en route to a more remote adventure in Nepal, fret not! You can still enjoy a condensed "greatest hits" walking tour that showcases the city's numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Despite its sprawling size, Kathmandu is surprisingly navigable on foot.

During the day, embark on a stroll to Durbar Square and the historic royal palace, Hanuman Dhoka. Spanning a few acres in the city center, this complex dates back to the 4th century during the Licchavi period, with its legacy extending through the Malla and Shah dynasties. While a hub of historical and cultural significance, the area suffered significant damage from the 2015 earthquake, with ongoing renovation efforts.

Within Durbar Square lies an unassuming house known as the Kumari Chen, the residence of the Kumari—a young girl believed to embody the warrior goddess Durga. At 4 pm, visitors can glimpse Nepal's "living goddess" as she peers through a second-story window. The Kumari is selected as a child and secluded in this house until adolescence, when a new Kumari is chosen.

Other notable attractions around Durbar Square include Nasal Chowk, a vast courtyard housing the Narsingha Statue (depicting the deity Vishnu), the Sisha Baithak audience chamber of the Malla Kings, and the five-story Panch Mukhi Hanuman Temple. The impressive Hindu temple architecture is attributed to the Newar people, the earliest inhabitants of the Kathmandu Valley, who still comprise half of the valley's population today.

After a day of exploration, hunger is inevitable. Among Kathmandu's neighborhoods, Thamel stands out for its diverse selection of quality restaurants. From renowned Thai, Indian, and western-style eateries to countless local Nepali establishments offering delicious homemade thukpa (chicken soup) and momo (Nepali dumplings with various savory fillings), Thamel caters to all tastes.

2-3 Days in Kathmandu

A three-day itinerary offers a comfortable exploration of Kathmandu's iconic landmarks and nearby historic sites. With strategic planning, you can condense the itinerary into two days or extend it for a comprehensive tour of the Kathmandu Valley before departing on the fourth day.

On the initial day, delve into Durbar Square's rich heritage and immerse yourself in Thamel's vibrant atmosphere. Take advantage of shopping opportunities, acquiring Nepali leather bags or Tibetan singing bowls as keepsakes. Additionally, a visit to the meticulously maintained Garden of Dreams, reminiscent of Edwardian England's gardens, provides a serene retreat from Kathmandu's bustling center, boasting ponds, fountains, and pavilions.

The following day, devote your time to exploring Kathmandu's Buddhist stupas. Boudhanath, situated on the city's northeastern outskirts, impresses with its 6th-century origins under King Mānadeva's reign and its distinction as one of Nepal's largest spherical stupas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Equally captivating is Swayambhunath Stupa, colloquially known as Monkey Temple, dating back to the 5th century and renowned for its resident rhesus monkey population.

Should time permit, embark on a day trip to the neighboring Durbar Squares within the Kathmandu Valley. Both Patan, formerly Lalitpur, located south of Kathmandu, and Bhaktapur, to the east, boast UNESCO World Heritage Sites status. These cities, along with Kathmandu, were once bastions of the ancient Malla kings' dynasties. Notable attractions include Nyatapola, Bhaktapur's awe-inspiring five-story Hindu temple, a testament to Nepal's architectural splendor.

4-5 Days in Kathmandu

If you're planning to stay within and around the capital but have a few extra days to spare, you can blend city exploration with a short trek around the Kathmandu Valley. Kick off your adventure by spending the first day in central Kathmandu, immersing yourself in the rich history of Durbar Square and indulging in souvenir shopping and dining experiences in Thamel.

On the following day, embark on a tour of the Buddhist stupas and venture on day trips to the historic gems of Bhaktapur and Patan. In Patan, commence your sightseeing at Durbar Square, centered around the expansive Mul Chowk plaza. Don't miss the Golden Temple, a 12th-century Buddhist monastery, and the intricately crafted Krishna Mandir Hindu temple, a testament to the region's architectural splendor.

After savoring the urban delights for two or three days, it's time to embrace Nepal's favorite pastime: trekking. Explore the plethora of short hikes ideal for day trips, such as the ascent of Phulchowki, Kathmandu's highest hill, offering breathtaking vistas from its summit at 9,127 feet (2,782 meters).

For a shorter excursion lasting around three hours, venture southeast from Kathmandu Valley through Dollu Valley's pine forests, passing by stupas and monasteries en route to Champadevi's summit, the third-highest hill near the capital, standing at 7,378 feet (2,249 meters).

For an immersive introduction to trekking in Nepal, consider the Balthali Village Trek, spanning approximately three days. This brisk hike traverses picturesque locales along the Kathmandu Valley rim, from traditional Newari towns like Panauti to serene farming villages and Buddhist stupas, offering mesmerizing Himalayan vistas along the way.