Kathmandu Metropolitan City
Bagamati Province, Nepal
Plan a trip here- Pashupatinath TemplePhoto by Sushanta Rokka on Unsplash
- CountryNepal
- Capital cityKathmandu
- Official languagesNepali
- CurrencyNepalese Rupee (NPR)
- Time zoneUTC+5:45
- PopulationAbout 1.5 million
- Known forAncient temples, Himalayan gateway, vibrant markets, UNESCO World Heritage sites, rich cultural heritage
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- Visa on arrivalMost nationalities can obtain a tourist visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport.
- Passport validityPassports must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of arrival.
- Check before you goDepartment of Immigration, Nepal
Rules change: always check official sources before you travel. AI-generated, may contain mistakes.
- Peak seasonMarch to May and September to November offer the best weather for trekking and sightseeing.
- Off-peak seasonJune to August is the monsoon season, bringing heavy rain and potential travel disruptions.
- WeatherTemperatures range from 2°C in winter to 30°C in summer.
- Big eventsDashain and Tihar festivals occur between September and November.
- Best time to visitOctober and November for clear skies and mountain views.
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- Pashupatinath TempleA sacred Hindu temple complex on the banks of the Bagmati River.
- Boudhanath StupaOne of the largest spherical stupas in the world and a center of Tibetan Buddhism.
- Kathmandu Durbar SquareA historic plaza featuring ancient palaces, courtyards, and temples.
- Swayambhunath StupaKnown as the Monkey Temple, offering panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley.
- ThamelA bustling neighborhood famous for its narrow streets, shops, and restaurants.
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- ThamelBest for first-time visitors and backpackers, offering many hotels and shops. Prices about 1500-8000 NPR.
- BoudhaQuiet area near the stupa, ideal for those seeking a spiritual atmosphere.
- LazimpatHome to upscale hotels and embassies, suitable for luxury travelers.
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- MomoSteamed or fried dumplings filled with meat or vegetables, served with spicy chutney.
- Dal BhatA traditional meal consisting of lentil soup, rice, and vegetable curry.
- Sel RotiA traditional sweet, ring-shaped rice bread.
- Newari Khaja SetA platter of various traditional snacks from the Newar community.
- Dining tipAlways use your right hand for eating and passing food.
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- From the airportTribhuvan International Airport is 5km away. Taxis are the main option, costing about 700-1500 NPR.
- TaxisWidely available; ensure the meter is used or agree on a fare beforehand.
- Ride-hailing appsPathao and InDrive are popular and reliable for getting around the city.
- TipTraffic can be heavy; allow extra time for travel during peak hours.
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- Is it required?Not required but highly recommended for all travelers.
- Medical careQuality is moderate in private hospitals; costs can be high for specialized care.
- Risks to coverAltitude sickness, emergency medical evacuation, and travel delays.
- What to checkEnsure your policy covers high-altitude activities if you plan to trek.
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- CurrencyNepalese Rupee (NPR)
- Exchange rateAbout 1 INR = 1.6 NPR.
- Cards or cashCash is essential for small shops and markets; cards are accepted in larger hotels.
- TippingTipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 5-10 percent is common in restaurants.
- Mobile dataTourist SIM cards are available from Ncell or Nepal Telecom at the airport.
- Power plugsTypes C, D, and M; 230V.
- Emergency number100 for police.
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