Kathmandu
Nepal's temple-filled capital and the gateway to the Himalaya
Kathmandu (about 1,400 m) is Nepal's capital and the start and end point of every Everest trek, with UNESCO-listed temples, the trekking hub of Thamel and flights to Lukla.
Why Kathmandu is known
Start and end point of Everest and Himalayan treks
Seven UNESCO World Heritage monuments in the valley
Thamel, the trekking and backpacker district
Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath and Swayambhunath
Domestic flights to Lukla
About Kathmandu
Kathmandu (about 1,400 m) is Nepal’s capital and the starting point for almost every trek in the Himalaya. The city fills a green valley ringed by hills, and is home to seven UNESCO World Heritage monuments, centuries-old temples, busy bazaars and the backpacker district of Thamel, where trekkers gather before and after their adventures.
Arriving in Kathmandu
International flights land at Tribhuvan International Airport, about 20–30 minutes by road from Thamel. Most nationalities can get a visa on arrival. Our team meets you at the airport and takes you to your hotel, where your guide holds the trek briefing.
Before your trek
Thamel’s narrow streets are packed with trekking shops, where you can buy or rent anything missing from your kit, from down jackets to trekking poles. Change money here as well, and buy a local SIM card for the first part of the trail.
Things to see
Use a buffer day to visit Boudhanath, one of the largest stupas in the world; Pashupatinath, Nepal’s most sacred Hindu temple on the Bagmati River; Swayambhunath, the hilltop Monkey Temple; and the royal palaces and temples of Kathmandu Durbar Square. Patan and Bhaktapur, the other two old royal cities of the valley, are an easy half-day trip.
Flights to Lukla
Flights to Lukla for the Everest region leave from Kathmandu outside peak season. In the busy months they usually move to Manthali Airport in Ramechhap, a 4–5 hour drive away, so expect a very early start on your flight day.
Highlights
- Visit Boudhanath Stupa at sunset with pilgrims walking the kora
- See the temples and palaces of Kathmandu Durbar Square
- Climb to Swayambhunath for views over the valley
- Shop for trekking gear in Thamel
- Celebrate your trek with momos and a massage
Location
Open in Google MapsFrequently asked questions
How high is Kathmandu?
Kathmandu lies at about 1,400 m (4,600 ft), so it does not cause altitude sickness.
Do I need a visa for Nepal?
Most nationalities can get a tourist visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, for 15, 30 or 90 days. Check the current rules for your passport before you travel.
How far is Thamel from the airport?
About 6 km, which takes 20 to 30 minutes by car depending on traffic.
How many days should I spend in Kathmandu before a trek?
At least one full day before the trek for rest, the briefing and gear shopping, plus 2 buffer days after it in case Lukla flights are delayed.
Can I rent trekking gear in Kathmandu?
Yes. Thamel has many shops that rent or sell sleeping bags, down jackets, poles and boots at good prices.
What are the must-see sights in Kathmandu?
Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath (the Monkey Temple) and Kathmandu Durbar Square, plus nearby Patan and Bhaktapur.
Do Lukla flights leave from Kathmandu?
Outside peak season, yes (about 35 minutes). In the busy months they usually leave from Manthali Airport in Ramechhap, a 4 to 5 hour drive from Kathmandu.
Is Kathmandu safe for tourists?
Generally yes. Use normal city precautions: watch your belongings in crowds, use registered taxis or your tour transfer, and drink bottled or filtered water.
