In places it seems Kathmandu has not changed since the Middle-Ages and at the other hand it is a developing world capital rushing into the modern era. For many people, arriving in Kathmandu for the first time, it will be a shock. The very impressive and interesting sights, the sounds and the smells can lead to a sensory overload in the first days after arrival. But once you touch the heart of the city, the city will touch your heart too.
Kathmandu is literally the center and the largest city of Nepal. The capital of Nepal is situated in the Kathmandu valley at the altitude of 1300 m. Just two main roads are connecting Kathmandu with the rest of the country; one to the north-east to Tibet and the other road leads to the south to Western-Nepal and India.
From September to April is the best period for travelling to Kathmandu. Nights will be cold in winter, but during daytime temperature rises quickly. In wintertime there will be more clear skies and you will be able to enjoy the Himalayan views the best. For more information check the information (climate) chapter.
There are public busses in Kathmandu, but most of the time they are very crowded. More comfortable and pretty cheap is to take a taxi. Check if the meter is running or fix a price in advance.
Highlights
- The Durbar squares of Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur.
- Pashupatinath Temple
- Stupas of Swayambhunath and Boudhanath
- Sunset and/or sunrise in Dhulikhel or Nagarkot
- A mountainflight to see the Himalayas and Mount Everest
- Nepali dinner with accompaniment of traditional dancers
