Kathmandu is the place of ultimate divinity and tranquility. The capital of Nepal, this city is surrounded by the pristinity of mother nature. Whether you are a seeker of nature, adventure, food, wildlife, or culture, the city has something for all kinds of travelers. There is an abundance of places to visit in Kathmandu. You can spend the morning amidst the mountains or spend a luxurious evening in the casinos. From soothful experiences to adventures, the city is full of enticing places to mesmerize you. The city is set in a valley surrounded by the Himalayas. It is a melting pot of cultures and a great mix of old and new, east and west. It's the place where modernity jostles with tradition.
22 Most Alluring Places To Visit In Kathmandu For A Relaxing Vacation
Kathmandu is a land of vast and mixed cultures. The city has a different and unique level of calmness that draws tourists from all the world.
1. Garden Of Dreams
The garden was built in the 1920s. It is also referred to as "Swapna Bageecha" and also "garden of six seasons". It is one of the top tourist attractions of Nepal, and not only Kathmandu. This is a neo-classical garden built by Kishore Narshingh. It has majestic amphitheaters, gorgeous pavilions, pergolas, ponds, urns, and paved perimeter paths. The place is also home to a "hidden garden". Garden Of Dreams is an ideal place for a picnic or just to marvel the nature and human interaction. The garden's main highlight is Omar Khayam's Rubaiyat and erratic fountains. It is an architectural landscape that allows its visitors to stroll around the treasure of the gardens and many different vantage points.
Location: Tridevi Sadak, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
Timings: Opens at 9 AM and closes at 10 PM
Entry Fee: For Adults - NPR 320, for the child - NPR 160
Best Time To Visit: During morning or evening
2. Kopan Monastery
This is a sacred Buddhist site, founded by Lama Thubten Yeshe. Situated on the hilltop of Bodhnath, this is a pleasant place where you can explore Buddhism. It is one of the most peaceful and beautiful places in Kathmandu and is a well-known tourist attraction. You can choose to stride along with the monastery or take a small course (minimum 7-day course) to dive into the depths of peacefulness and divinity. The monastery also has cafes serving simple vegetarian food to its visitors. This monastery is all about simplicity, peace and blissful tranquility. It is open for all, however, there is a code of conduct that you must follow, so that you don't disturb the monks and the students.
Location: Kopan Monastery, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
Timings: Opens at 9 AM and closes at 5 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: During the opening hours
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3. Durbar Square
This place is one of the three regal Durbans of Nepal. It has witnessed the rule of one king after the other for a very long time. New rulers were crowned here with the beats of drums and trumpets that filled the place. One of the best places to visit in Kathmandu, this is the one place where you can explore the true history of Nepal.
The Durbar, located in Kathmandu, is renowned as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and is famous for its vivid showcases of craftsmen and artists. People with fine and eloquent taste should add this place, as one of the best things to do in Nepal on their bucket list. To this date, this place remains the most remarkable legacy of Kathmandu, even after earthquakes that took a toll on the building, it still retained its original glory.
Location: J P Marg, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
Timings: Opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM (closed on Saturdays)
Entry Fee: For foreigners - NPR 1000, for SAARC country citizens-NPR 200, for students - No Entry Fee
Best Time To Visit: Between Late September to December
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4. Narayanhiti Palace
Do you have a political buzz? Well, this is the ideal place for you. This 1970's glamour has opulent interiors and is full of meeting rooms. Narayanhiti palace and museum is known for its beauty. This is the place where Prince Dipendra massacred his own family, and so has bullet holes that are still visible. This is one of the best things to do in Kathmandu which is not just beautiful but also stores great amount of history and politics of Nepal.
If you are courageous and adventurous, this is the place for you. The fabulous museum showcases art pieces, ornaments, old furniture of the Royal family, and lavish lifestyle once adorning the halls of the palace. The palace and now the museum have witnessed some major historical incidents over the course of years.
Location: Narayanhiti Palace Museum North Gate Rd, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
Timings: Opens at 11 AM and closes at 4 PM (consult the local authorities before visiting)
Enry Fee: For Nepali nationals: NPR 100, for students: NPR 20, for SAARC Nationals: NPR 250, for other Foreign Nationals: NPR 500
Best Time To Visit: During the opening hours
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5. Langtang National Park
Ideal for trekking, climbing, and outdoor trips, this park consists of forests of pine and bamboo trees, it is almost 50 km away from Kathmandu. This place catches quick attention because of its tranquil views and adventures. The park is house to a serene and high-altitude Gosaikunda Lake. It has a rich and vast biodiversity. It has more than 250 species of birds and around 46 species of mammals and a whopping 1000 species of plants. All the nature lovers out there, this is one of the top places to visit in Kathmandu for you.
Location: Helambu, 45007, Nepal
Timings: Opens 24 Hours
Entry Fee: For Nepal citizens, there is no entry fee, for SAARC nationals NPR 1500, for other foreign nationals NPR 3000
Best Time To Visit: Between September to December (Autumn season)
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6. Thamel
Thamel has some of the best hotels in Nepal and is a haven for tourists visiting Kathmandu. It's is a popular destination and has never failed to serve its tourists. Whether you are looking for good food or clothes, new music albums, or in the hunt for trekking gears or street shops, Thamel has got it all covered. For internet lovers, and people who like to snap everything, the entire is "Wi-Fi" zone!!
This maze of streets that make up Thamel is home to many stalls (one after the other), was formerly known as "Tabitha Bahal". It also houses several restaurants that serve delicious and varied cuisine. Thamel is the one of finest street shopping places to go in Kathmandu, that caters to quality items and food at reasonable prices.
Location: 20-minute taxi drive from Tribhuvan International Airport
and a 15-minute drive from Kathmandu bus station
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: Between October to December
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7. Swayambhunath Temple
The temple is perched at the top of Semgu Hill, located on the outskirts of Kathmandu. It is one of the most important religious shrines of the city. The entire complex is surrounded by a wide variety of trees and comprises temples, a monastery, a museum, a well-stocked library, many shrines, and the main stupa.
Most of the Kathmandu tourist places are serene and have an amusing charisma. This place as well has a unique aura and charisma that draws people. It is believed that visiting this place washes away all your sins and it is a common practice among pilgrims. Also, known as Swayambhunath Stupa, this holy place of worship has been here for several centuries. The top of this temple caters to a panoramic and picturesque view of Kathmandu.
Location: Bhaganpau 44600, Nepal
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: For foreigners NPR 200, for SAARC nationals NPR 50, for Nepalese citizens it is free
Best Time To Visit: Early in the before (before 9 AM would be the best time)
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8. Taudaha Lake
The name of this lake comes from mythology, where it is believed that a Buddhist character had to cut the hill to drain the water, the reason being the lake is now smaller. A number of migratory species of birds visit this place. The perfect place to explore Kathmandu fair and square. Sitting on the outskirts of the city, this lake is famous for its freshwater. To add a cherry on top this place is surrounded by hills covered with dense forests making it a tranquil scenery.
Location: Kathmandu District, Kirtipur
Timings: Opens at 9 AM and closes at 5 PM
Entry Fee: For citizens of SAARC countries NPR 25, other foreign citizens NPR 100
Best Time To Visit: During evenings (somewhere in between the month of October)
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9. Pashupati Nath Temple
Pashupati Nath temple is one of the most religious tourist attractions in Kathmandu you can visit. This is one of the most sacred Hindu places that is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located on the bank of the Bagmati river on the outskirts of Kathmandu, the Pashupati Nath temple is one of 12 jyotirlingas. Each year thousands of devotees visit this place to seek blessings from the Hindu deity.
As Lord Shiva is known to be the god of ambiguity, you will find devotees visit this place during the last phase of their life to seek shelter and moksha.
Legends say those who die in the pious land of Pashupati Nath will be born again as humans leaving all their sins behind.
The main temple is only for Hindus, while foreigners can explore the neighboring building admire its architecture and experience the holy vibes.
Location: Pashupatinath Road, Kathmandu
Timings: 4 a.m to 7 p.m
Entry Fees:
- Free for Indians
- NPR 1000 for SAARC citizens
Best Time to visit: March to May
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10. Boudhanath Stupa
It was in AD 600 when the first Boudhanath temple was built in Nepal. The stupa was built by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo as a holy place for the followers of Buddhism. The king built the stupa as a sign of self-mortification after he killed his father.
This is marked as a UNESCO World Heritage site that is popular for its architecture and significance, which makes it one of the famous places to visit in Kathmandu with family. Many devotees visit the stupa to witness the serenity and seek peace and blessings. You can visit this place in March when the temperature is soothing and pleasant for all your sightseeing in Nepal. The white building designed with traditional architecture and the colorful prayer flags hanging makes it the finest attraction you can visit in Kathmandu.
Location: Buddha Stupa, Boudhanath Sadak, Kathmandu
Timings: 24 hours
Entry Fees:
- Free for locals
- NPR 100 per person for SAARC citizens
- NPR 400 for foreigners
Best time to visit: Throughout the year
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11. Hanuman Dhoka Square
The durbar square is another tourist attraction in Kathmandu that was built during the Shah Dynasty as the place of Malla kings. With the old architecture reflecting the art of the 16th century, the hanuman Dhoka in durbar square is built in an area of 5 acres.
The entire square compromise of magnificent Architectural buildings that are some of its major highlights. The Hanuman gate, with an idol of Lord Hanuman, is the main entrance. It is believed that the Hindu deity will protect the durbar square from every evil.
Then there is Nasal Chok at the East side of Hanuman Dhoka. The courtyard is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has a carved frame of wood with Hindu deities. The Mohan chok and Mul chok are other attractions that are built around the square. There are temples, towers, watchtower and other ancient buildings that makes it the best place to visit in Kathmandu.
Location: Durbar Square, central Kathmandu
Timings: 24 hours
Entry Fees:
- Free for locals
- NPR 150 per person for SAARC citizens
- NPR 750 for foreigners
Best time to visit: March to May September to November
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12. Kathesimbhu Stupa
Nepal is one of the best places to visit in Asia, especially for those who are looking for a cultural and spiritual experience in the country. Kathmandu has a number of Tibetan pilgrimage sites where you can discover peace and blessings. The Kathesimbhu stupa is among the best spiritual tourist places in Kathmandu where you will witness the old architecture and heritage of Tibetan tradition prevailing for ages.
The Kathesimbhu stupa is located in the old town of Kathmandu that was built in 1650. The architecture of the stupa resembles the Swayambhunath temple adding to its popularity.
There is a white dome built in the center of the stupa on a pedestal. There are praying flags tied to the top that surrounds the dome in the center.
The carvings on the small stupa, the temples, and nearby monasteries have made Kathesimbhu stupa a great attraction to explore in Kathmandu.
Location: Naghal, Kathmandu, Bāgmatī 44600
Timings: 24X7
Entry Fees: Free
Best Time to visit: March to May September to November
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13. Chandragiri
Towards the south West of Kathmandu, Chandragiri is a small town that is located in the southwest region. Well, if you are looking for a weekend gateway to some of the best places to visit around Kathmandu, Chandragiri is a perfect destination. Overlooking the splendid view of the Himalayas, the town is a secluded attraction where you can relax and enjoy. There are many activities you can try while you are on a holiday escape.
Chandragiri is an offbeat place that is not as crowded as cities, but it is the best place, where you can spend some time close to nature. The town is not much crowded and the scenery around is the only thing that lures visitors.
Location: Thankot, Kathmandu, 44619, Central Region
Best Time to visit: March to May September to November
Best Places to stay: Chandragiri Hills Resort
Best Attractions: Chandragiri Cable Car, Switzerland Park, Tribhuvan Park
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14. National Museum of Nepal
Also known as Rashtriya Sangrahalaya, the National Museum of Nepal is one of the famous Kathmandu attractions. It was established in 1928 as Chhauni Silkhana, but later in 1967, it was renamed Rashtriya Sangrahalaya Displaying the art and culture of Nepal, the museum is a treasure to explore witness the magnificent artworks.
There are three buildings on the premises, the Historical Museum Building, the Buddhist Art Gallery, and the Juddha Jayatia Kala Shala. The collection here includes metal and terracotta work, Buddhist Art Gallery, antiques, historical, and philatelic sections, and more. There is a war section where there are artifacts, weapons, postage, and cannons from the 1792 Nepal-Tibet War. You will find manuscripts that offer you every detail of Buddhism and its preaching.
The museum belongs to the old century that is displaying the rich history and culture of Nepal.
Location: Charaunii, Kathmandu
Timings:
- Monday: 10:30 am to 2:30 pm
- Tue Closed
- Wednesday to Sunday: 10:30 am to 4:30 pm
Entry Fees:
- NPR 150 For Foreigners
- NPR 50 For SAARC Citizens
- NPR 25 For Locals
Best Time to visit: All Year Round
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15. White Monastery
Nepal is one of the pristine lands where there is spirituality and peace in every corner. Being a prominent region for Hinduism and Buddhism, there are many temples and monasteries to visit. The white monastery is one of the major tourist attractions in Kathmandu that holds religious importance. Surrounded by the lush green terrains and vivid scenery, the monastery is not just an attraction but an example of the best architecture in the city.
What makes the White Monastery so popular in Nepal is the paintings, Murals, the white color exterior, and the tranquility. Also known as Amitabha Monastery of Seto Gomba, devotees and many tourists visit this place every year to witness the soothing beauty and seek blessing. There are five idols of Gautama Buddha at the gate of the monastery and locals believe these idols are preserving or guarding Kathmandu.
Location: Charaunii, Kathmandu
Timings: Saturday Morning to Evening
Entry Fees: NPR 40
Best Time to visit: Only on Saturday (All year round)
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16. Tribhuvan Museum
Located in the Hanuman Dhoka Palace, the Tribhuvan Museum is the best place to visit in Kathmandu for a historical experience. The museum belonged to the reign of Shah Kings for many years, but today it is the place that is preserving and displaying royal beauty. Learn more about the life of King Tribhuvan and observe the artworks and artifacts belonging to the period. The window of the Basantpur tower complex, near the museum, offers you an entire view of the city. Legend says the window was built so that the king, during his kingship could keep an eye on every movement of his people.
The personal artifacts of the king make the museum so popular among travelers. From the king's attire to the throne, the stonework's, weapon, and more, there is every single accessory preserved for public display.
Location: Hanuman Dhoka, Kathmandu 44802
Timings: 12:30 PM TO 3:00 PM
Entry Fees:
- Citizens of SAARC Countries- NPR 150
- Foreign Nationals- NPR 1000
Best Time to visit: All year round
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17. Rani Pokhari
Rani Pokhari, the major attraction in Kathmandu, dates back to the 17th century that was built by King Pratap Malla. The pond belonged to his queen Anantapriya who died in the sorrow of her son, Chakrawatendra Malla. He built the pond to console the loss of his beloved queen.
Located in the center of the city, the Pokhari or pond is 140 m wide and 180 m long. Because of the disastrous earthquake in 215, the real architecture of the pond got affected but it was later restored to preserve the heritage of the past. Many statues and temples git destroyed during the incident and a lot from the heritage git washed away with the time. It will be welcoming tourists again to witness its spectacular beauty. There are many temples built by the shores like the Bhairav temple to the northeast, the Ganesha temple to the southwest, and the Mahalakshmi temple to the southeast end of Rani Pokhari. There is a lot more to discover about the past as the history of Rani Paokair dates back to is three hundred years.
Location: Kathmandu 44802
Timings: 24X7
Entry Fees: Free
Best Time to visit: September to October
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18. Babar Mahal
Once known as Rana Palace, Babar Mahal is an impressive architectural building that is one of the popular Kathmandu attractions. With the vast courtyards, buildings, and green gardens, the Mahal was one of the properties of Jung Bahadur Rana Thapathali Durbar. Later it was reconstructed by the Chandra Shumsher Jang Bahadur Rana.
Today it is one of the most luxurious hotels in Nepal, where you can enjoy a lavish stay. The villa holds the vision to offer the best of Nepalis hospitality and service while staying at a historically designed property. It reflects the rich culture and heritage. There are 21 rooms built and designed in a traditional manner. You can book the heritage room, the traditional room and suites, and the royal suites. You can enjoy traditional dining, spa, and every facility they offer to the guest.
Location: Rana Palace, Kathmandu
Timings: 24X7
Entry Fees: Depends on number of nights
Best Time to visit: March to May: September to October
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19. Khawalung Monastery
The Khawalung monastery was founded by Vajra Master Jigme Dorje Rinpoche. With architecture inspired by the art and heritage of Buddhist style and art, this is one of the best places to visit in Kathmandu.
Vajra Master Jigme Dorje Rinpoche was an heir of Choying Wangpo Rinpoche who followed the path of Buddhism shown by his father. The monastery focusses on upholding and preserving the dissemination of the religion. There is an elementary school s and training center where kids are taught, some basics rituals and rites. Many social services are organized by the monastery like providing free food, medical care, and clothing to the poor.
Take a tour around to explore the magnificent architecture and design of these religious attractions. One can even stay here as Khawalung monastery has few rooms for visitors who are looking for a deeper understanding of Buddhism.
Location: Aradyadev Marg, Kathmandu, Bāgmatī
Timings: 24X7
Entry Fees: Free
Best Time to visit: All Year Round
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20. Nagarkot
It is the scenic beauty and peaceful vibes that make Nepal one of the best honeymoon destinations in Asia. While there are many towns to explore and luxury villas for a romantic holiday, Nagarkot is a small hamlet ideal for those who are looking for a serene escape. The beauty of the Himalayas during the sunset and sunrise, the small streams, and jungles make it a paradise for leisure seekers. It is a famous hill station and best attraction in Kathmandu that woill take away from the hustle-bustle.
You will find boutique cafes and hotels that are offering you splendid scenery to admire during your visit. And what's fascinating is 8 out of 13 ranges of the Himalayas are visible from here.
Location: Nagarkot Kathmandu, Nepal
Best Time to visit: March to May
Best places to stay: Hotel Himalayan Villa, Hotel Country Villa, Hotel Mount Paradise
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21. Budhanilkantha Temple: An Open Air Shrine of Lord Vishnu
One of the most popular places to visit in Kathmandu is the Budhanilkantha Temple, which houses a huge statue of Lord Vishnu in a reclining posture on sheshnaag in the pool. Being the largest stone statue in Nepal, it's obviously quite popular among tourists and locals. The festival of Haribodhini Ekadashi Mela is especially the time when devotees from all over the world visit this temple. It's a miracle that this statue has been floating on water for several years now and has also made scientists curious about what it's made of.
There's even a legend associated with this temple according to which King Pratap Malla got a vision that if the kings visited this temple, they would die. Therefore, none of the kings of Nepal ever visited this temple.
Location: Budhanilkantha temple, Budhanilkantha 44600, Nepal
Timings: 5 A.M to 7 P.M
Best time to visit: October to November
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22. Phulchowki: Hike to the Highest Hill in Kathmandu
This hill in Kathmandu is located at an altitude of around 2,791 m and it's name translates to hill of flowers because this entire mountain is covered with vibrant and colorful flowers. From wild roses and yellow jasmine to iris, etc. you'll find a variety of flora here. The magnificent views from the top are a sight to behold; therefore, hiking to the top is a thrilling adventure you msut indulge in. There's also a Buddhist shrine on the hiking trail which enhance your experience even more.
Best time to visit: March to May
Hiking duration: 3 to 4 hours
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The city where modern technology is embraced and ancient traditions are passionately guarded at the same time. It was found in a vast valley after draining a large lake, legends abound this remarkable city. While in Nepal (or even if you directly go to the capital city), there are many places to visit in Kathmandu that not only your eyes but your soul will embrace. It is such an enchanting and magical place.
The city’s life is enriched with endless ceremonial processions. The city has a mixed and rich cuisine of every kind. Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Italian, Mexican, Thai, Indian, and many more. What are you pondering over? Book your Kathmandu tour packages today!
FAQs
Yes, Kathmandu is worth a visit. With serene blue skies and a pleasing view, the city is one of the must-visit places. There is so much that you can admire in the city and many fun activities as well.
Yes, there are many religious places in Kathmandu. Being a city of traditions and religion, the city caters to many temples and religious places such as Pashupati Nath Temple, Boudhanath (Stupa), Swayambhunath Stupa, Jagannath Temple, and Kathesimbhu Stupa. These are some of the must-visit religious places in Kathmandu.
The main airport in Kathmandu is Tribhuvan International Airport.
Some of the best hotels in Kathmandu are Hyatt Regency Hotel, The Dwarika’s Hotel, Kathmandu Marriott Hotel, Crowne Plaza Kathmandu-Soaltee, and Gokarna Forest Resort.
Nepal is a country that jostles tradition with modernity. There are many beautiful, serene, and tranquil places to visit in Nepal. Kathmandu, Pokhara, Mount Annapurna, Chitwan National Park, and Nagarkot are some of the best places to visit in Nepal.
The best time to visit Kathmandu is between September to December. At this time, you will find Kathmandu in its complete bliss. With clear blue skies, dry weather, and many cultural events this time will make your vacation even more radiant.
Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal is a religious fairytale land. With an abundance of scenic beauties and mixed cultures, there are many places that are worth a visit. Garden of Dreams, Langtang National Park, Kopan Monastery, and Taudaha Lake are some of the best places to visit in Kathmandu.
There is a lot you can do in Kathmandu. Some of the best and must-do things in Kathmandu are going for a temple walk (visiting all the temples), enjoying the nightlife, visiting the great Durbar Square, visiting the botanical gardens, and being lost in the poised greenery. The city offers you a blissful trip.
Kathmandu's famous for its religious sites,such as temples, monasteries, etc. Some of the most magnificent religious places, like Budhanilkantha Temple are located in this city.
3 to 4 days are enough to explore the city of Kathmandu. You can immerse yourself in its culture and traditions in this period for a wholesome experience.
