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Kathmandu Info: A Living Heritage City

Welcome to Kathmandu, a city at the crossroads of culture, nature, and the Himalaya. The Kathmandu Valley is one of the world’s most remarkable cultural landscapes—home to over 2,000 years of history, seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a dense urban forest system, and communities that have long practiced sophisticated forms of environmental stewardship.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

The Kathmandu Valley comprises three ancient cities: Kathmandu, Patan (Lalitpur), and Bhaktapur. We highly recommend taking the time to explore these historic sites:

  • The Durbar Squares: Explore the ancient palace squares of Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur, famous for their intricate wood carvings, sacred courtyards, and vibrant public life.
  • Swayambhunath: Often called the "Monkey Temple," this ancient religious architecture sits atop a hill offering panoramic views of the valley.
  • Boudhanath Stupa: One of the largest spherical stupas in Nepal and the heart of Tibetan Buddhism in Kathmandu.

Eat, Sip & Explore Food

Kathmandu is a delicious mix of traditional Nepali flavours, Himalayan comfort food, and global cuisines. The city is incredibly vegetarian and vegan-friendly.

   

Must-Try Foods

  • Momo: Nepal’s most loved snack—steamed or fried dumplings filled with vegetables or meat, served with a spicy dipping sauce.
  • Dal Bhat: The classic Nepali meal: rice, lentils, vegetables, and pickles. Nourishing and naturally vegetarian-friendly.
  • Newari Cuisine: Traditional dishes from the valley's indigenous Newar community, such as bara (lentil patties), choila (spiced meat or mushroom), and the sweet yomari.
  • Himalayan Teas & Coffee: Enjoy herbal blends like ginger, mint, or tulsi tea, and locally grown specialty coffee in the cafes of Thamel, Patan, and Boudha.

Getting Around

  • Ride-Hailing Apps: Apps like InDrive and Pathao are the most popular and reliable ways to navigate the city, offering both car and motorcycle options. They are often cheaper than street taxis. Note: They require a local SIM to activate.
  • Taxis: Widely available, but meters are rarely used. Always negotiate and confirm the price before starting your journey.
  • Walking: Exploring on foot works wonderfully in the narrow alleys of Thamel, the heritage areas of Patan, and parts of Bhaktapur. Use offline maps like Maps.me to navigate.
  • Public Transport: While inexpensive, local buses and micro-vans can be extremely confusing for newcomers due to complex routes and are generally not recommended for short visits.