Top 10 Best Places To Eat in Kathmandu
No traveling experience in the world gets complete without teasing your tastebuds. After all, trying cuisines and having 100 different reactions in your body is what makes your traveling experience such a memorable one.
Kathmandu is a goldmine with rich cultural history, spectacular landmarks, and authentic Nepali cuisine. For all adventures out there who are all set to embark on discovering Kathmandu, don’t miss out on these best places to eat in Kathmandu.
These places offer not only traditional food in Kathmandu but also warm hospitality that simply melts your heart. Make your visit to Kathmandu a unique one by trying these local eateries.
The best places to eat in Kathmandu that you can’t Miss
OR2K
OR2K is one of the famous places to eat in Kathmandu. The whole vibe of OR2K is vibrant and has an appealing ambiance.
They offer not only traditional Nepali food but also European-style food and even Middle Eastern cuisine. If you’re wondering why this weird amalgamation? Well, one of the founders of this restaurant is Israeli. So you have the best of both worlds.
Unlike other restaurants, you have to sit on floor mats with low cushions and take off your shoes. Talk about the traditional Nepali food dining experience, right?
This place will also win over people who crave vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Kathmandu. The menu serves a wide range of vegetarian items and leaves you full.
The popular item on their menu includes Babaganesh, Cheese Platter, Tovales Home Apple Pie, and Hummus Tahini.
- Location: Mandala Street, Kathmandu
Le Sherpa
Le Sherpa bags its place as a fine dining restaurant in Kathmandu. If you want to enjoy a calm and cozy environment amidst all the chaos of Kathmandu, you’d love this restaurant.
They offer high-end international cuisine inspired by French and Italian fare. They use ingredients in the recipe either by growing on-site or sourcing. They also organize a farmers’ market every Saturday morning.
The farmers’ market is like a chic market meant to promote organic and authentic brands from coffee, and foods to crafts. So you’ll be exploring the growing Kathmandu food scene up close.
You can find food items such as European cheese, bread and pastries, organic honey, homemade chutneys and jams, artisanal meat, and delicacies from the best restaurants in Kathmandu.
You’d find plenty of food markets and stalls and feel as if you’re in a food fest at this place.
- Location: Maharajgunj, Kathmandu
Yala Cafe
If you’re looking for a cute cafe that makes it to your Instagram feed and satisfies your taste bud, then Yala Cafe is your place. They offer not only some traditional Nepali dishes but also European dishes.
Yala Cafe is renowned among visitors for having a peaceful environment. So, for those of you who love to break free from the crowd and noise, watch out for this cafe. Their staff exhibits warm hospitality and has well-priced items on their menu.
They also serve vegan and gluten-free options. The waiters seem well-informed about food allergies. This can be helpful for people sensitive to certain food ingredients.
They use coffee beans and teas grown only in Nepal. So, you’ll be entertained by the exquisite taste of food grown in Nepal. Their popular offerings include Café Mocha, Latte, masala tea, pancakes, cheesecakes, and momo to name a few.
- Location: Kwabahal, Thamel, Kathmandu
Carpe Deim Lounge and Bakery
Carpe Deim Lounge and Bakery is another famous place to eat in Kathmandu. They have a gorgeous aesthetic. The restaurant consists of 3 floors for seating, with each floor having its unique details.
The bottom floor seems casual while the top floor has a romantic feel to it. So, if you’re traveling with your loved one, this might as well be among the best restaurant in Kathmandu for couples.
The popular items on their menu include the classic eggs benedict, the smoked salmon sandwich, the chicken Caesar salad, and the Margherita pizza. They also serve drinks and hookah if you’re in the mood to be relaxed.
- Location: Paknajol16, Thamel, Kathmandu
Roadhouse Cafe
Wondering where you can quench your appetite for Pizza while visiting places in Kathmandu? Roadhouse Cafe is just the place to be. A large number of tourists have vouched for the quality of pizza as seen on many review sites.
To be more precise, their wood-fired pizza is what made it a must-eat place in Kathmandu. As tourists, you cannot always get along with the taste of Nepal, and this restaurant understands and presents it to its visitors.
It gets a little busy on Saturday. Do keep that in mind as you plan your eating experience here.
They have got a good ambiance and chill music to lighten up the vibe. Some of their preferred items on the menu include Roadhouse blue pizzas, sizzling brownies, Nachos, and cheesecakes.
Their popularity has grown so much that they actually extended their chain restaurants in various parts of Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Location: Thamel, Kathmandu
Krishnarpan Nepali Restaurant
Let’s be real, exploring Nepal doesn’t get complete until you’ve tried authentic Nepali cuisine. That’s where Krishnarpan Nepali Restaurant comes to your service. It happens to be a part of Dwarika Hotel, a deluxe hotel.
Krishnarpan serves ethnic cuisines in Kathmandu. The whole architecture and interior decor of the restaurant are Newari inspired. The traditional attires worn by the service providers and traditional earthenware only enhance the atmosphere of authentic experience.
They also provide you with a customized menu and souvenirs like clay crafts with a description. So, you not only get a fine dining experience but also carry the memory with you. The management takes their customer service to the next level as they ask you about individual food allergies and preferences prior to serving meals.
No wonder, they’ve established themselves as a top dining spot in Kathmandu. Their 6-course meal is the most loved one. They also serve local rice wine, momos, appetizers, and a variety of desserts depending on your choice. So, embrace yourself for a heavy meal.
- Location: Battisputali, Kathmandu
Yangling Tibetan Restaurant
One thing to know before traveling to Kathmandu is you’ll sin if you don’t try Momo. Seriously, Nepal is incomplete without Momo. So you have to try them.
And Yangling Tibetan Restaurant offers the best momos in Kathmandu. One bite into their juicy momo and you’d be craving for more. The red hot chutney dip further enhances your taste.
It is a family-run restaurant that also offers other traditional dishes. You can also try Thukpa, and Tibetan butter tea if that’s your jam. The portions are great and quite affordable in comparison to other local eateries in Kathmandu.
- Location: Kaldhara Marga, Kathmandu
Rosemary Kitchen
Rosemary Kitchen is a must-try restaurant for people looking to enjoy European and Asian cuisines in Kathmandu. You’d get a wide range of offerings from foods, wines to coffee.
The place is hygienic and has attentive servers and receptive kitchen crews. Thamel can be pretty overwhelming for travelers and this restaurant transports them to tranquility.
They have an open courtyard seating area perfect for getting together with your friends. You can dive into deep conversations while sipping wine or coffee. You can try rosemary chicken, Thai curry, Mongolian Chicken, organic salad, and Australian lamb.
- Location: J.P. Marga, Kathmandu
Kaiser Cafe
In the mood to romanticize your travel? Kaiser Cafe is the perfect getaway. Residing within the gorgeous Garden of Dreams, Kaiser Cafe without a doubt is a fine dining option in Kathmandu.
It is a bit expensive compared to other restaurants in Kathmandu. However, the gorgeous setting and delicious food all makeup for it.
It serves a wide range of international cuisines like Austrian Wiener Schnitzel, wild mushroom soup with creme fraiche, and Vienna coffee. The dreamy aura of the restaurant makes it your perfect night out in Kathmandu.
- Location: Thamel, Kathmandu
Taza Treats
Your sweet memories deserve sweet delicious treats. Taza treats are there to accompany you in your memory. Taza Treats offer delectable sweets and desserts from Syria and Middle-Eastern Places.
A Syrian-Nepali couple runs this place. It started as a way to expand Kathmandu’s food scene and introduce Syrian dishes to Nepali. They have grabbed a lot of eyeballs.
Before getting big, the owner of Taza would bring materials from Syria to ensure authenticity. But, since this wasn’t practical in the long run, he switched to using quality materials available in Nepal.
Try their Kunafeh, a sweet creamy, and cheesy treat, and dive into ecstasy. You can also enjoy Baklavas, hummus, fatayers, zaatar, and suksseh.
- Location– Sanepa, Lalitpur
The food culture of Kathmandu is really intriguing with its diverse offerings. It manages to capture the beauty of both ethnic and international cuisines together, providing unique food experiences in Kathmandu. Commemorate your travel with these best places to eat in Kathmandu and discover the beauty of taste like never before.
Top 8 Art Galleries and Museums in Kathmandu
Every traveler is mesmerized by the beauty of Kathmandu. Undoubtedly, It is a nature’s paradise, a place of cultural and political revolutions, and a landmark of history. You’d find yourself in a state of pure bliss.
But what people don’t acknowledge much about Kathmandu is how rich it is in terms of arts and has abundant historical collections with cultural significance. You’d not only have some visual feast but also be enlightened with historical knowledge, truly making your traveling experience to Kathmandu an insightful one.
It’s easy to get hooked while visiting different places in Kathmandu. But these top art galleries and museums in Kathmandu deserve your equal attention.
Top Art Galleries and Museums that You must visit in Kathmandu
1. Nepal Art Council
Nepal art council is a non-profit art gallery in Nepal. It has been working since 1962. So, you’d get access to some good old Nepali artifacts that have lived throughout history.
In its early days, this art gallery was promoted and supported by the state and King Mahendra (then King)acted as a trustee. Later it transitioned into a service-oriented, non-profit, and non-governmental organization.
Earlier, the art gallery was heavily concentrated on modern art. However, they have changed into different forms of art such as traditional art, folk art, novel art, and many more.
They feature visual arts in the form of painting, sculpture, photography, installations, and mixed media artworks. They also promote folk arts such as traditional crafts, woodwork, metalwork, pottery, and mask-making.
For an art museum in Nepal that paved the way for traditional architecture, they have remained open to experimentation with performing arts and organized seminars and workshops about various art forms.
- Location: Babarmahal, Kathmandu
- Entry Fee: Free
- Opening hours: 10 A.M. to 5 P.M.
2. Patan Museum
The museums in Nepal literally embody the word ‘’art’’ like no other. And Patan Museum is no exception.
The Patan Museum falls under a world heritage site. So, you bet you’ll be on the journey for some exquisite art collections.
Patan Museum is located within the compound of Keshav Narayan Chowk of Patan Durbar Square courtyard. You’ll get to see around 300 artifacts on display. As this museum had to withstand the earthquake, Nepal Government and Austrian governments were involved in restoring this place.
The museum embodies the long cultural history of Nepal and displays objects that hold significance for both Hinduism and Buddhism. The displayed objects include cast bronzes and gilt copper repousse work and traditional crafts.
The Patan Museum Cafe managed by the Summit Hotel, Kathmandu perfectly complements the architecture of this art museum and provides a great place to enjoy some traditional and Western cuisines. So, you can eat the different cuisines of Kathmandu.
The museum also has a gift shop where you can buy unique handicrafts and take them as a souvenir.
- Location: Patan, Lalitpur
- Entry Fee: Rs.1000 for foreign visitors, Rs. 250 for SAARC citizens
- Opening hours: 10 A.M. to 5:30 P.M.
3. Taragaon Museum
If your museum experience is all about calmness, this art museum in Nepal is a must. Taragaon Museum is a breath of fresh air when it comes to architecture in Kathmandu.
Tarragon Museum was originally built as a hostel for visiting artists and scientists and was later abandoned in the 1990s. The hotelier and philanthropist Arun Saraf took the initiative of restoring this place and collaborated with Austrian architect Carl Pruscha to create a unique architecture.
It differs from the typical architecture in Kathmandu and has a minimalist and simple layout. The Taragaon Museum proudly boasts of displaying 50 years of research and cultural heritage conservation efforts of foreign artists, photographers, architects, and anthropologists in the Kathmandu Valley.
So, it’s an honest attempt to show the untold story of Kathmandu.
The museum features drawings, sketches, paintings, and other important documents that capture the history of Kathmandu. You’ll find dark red bricks all over the museum’s design representing a tribute to the dachi appa brick structures that are found in Kathmandu.
There is a barrel-vaulted style room inspired by the classic temple architecture.
- Location: Boudanath Sadak, Kathmandu
- Entry Fee: Free
- Opening hours: 10 A.M. to 5 P.M (closed on Saturday and public holidays)
4. National Art Gallery
The list of art museums in Kathmandu doesn’t get complete without mentioning the National Art Gallery. National Art Gallery is a museum that takes you on the journey of medieval as well as Lichhavi art and history.
Located within the heart of Bhaktapur Durbar Square, this art gallery in Nepal was formed by the Nepal Government’s Department of Archaeology in 1960. The core idea behind it was to preserve and showcase Nepalese traditional paintings.
You’ll discover palm-leaf manuscripts, Tantric cloth paintings, and metal, bronze, stone, and wooden artifacts that date back to the 12th century. You’ll also find a stone art section on the ground floor, which exhibits stone sculptures, and inscriptions and showcase stone art from the early medieval through medieval periods.
Before entering the National art gallery, you’ll be required to pay for the ticket. But these tickets will also let you access the other two museums namely the Wood carve museum and the brass and bronze museum.
- Location: Bhaktapur Durbar Square
- Entry Fee: Rs.150 for foreign visitors and Rs, 50 for SAARC nationals
- Opening hours: 10 A.M. to 4 P.M(until 3 P.M. on Friday and closed on public holidays)
5. Chhauni Museum
Chhauni Museum is an unconventional art museum in Kathmandu. This is because it started out as an arsenal house. It was popular with the name ‘’Chhauni Silkhana’’, which translates to ‘’the stone house of arms and ammunition’’.
Expect plenty of military artifacts at Chhauni Museum.
You’ll find substantial historical artworks such as sculptures, paintings, and weapons used in wars in the 18th and 19th centuries. It is the largest museum in Nepal. So, you can expect it to be a bit bigger, thereby giving you more time to explore this place.
This museum has 3 major buildings namely the Historical Museum Building, the Buddhist Art Gallery, and the Juddha Jayatia Kala Shala. They also feature a variety of animal, butterfly, and plant species.
The cultural section of the museums showcases traditional attire, musical instruments, and images of Nepali people in their daily lives.
- Location: Museum Marg, Kathmandu
- Entry Fee: 150 for foreign visitors and Rs. 50 for SAARC citizens
- Opening Hours: 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM(from Wednesday to Sunday) and 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM(Monday)
6. Siddhartha Art Gallery
Amidst all the traditional art museums in Kathmandu, Siddhartha Art Gallery stands as a unique art gallery in Nepal. This gallery has positioned itself as a place for contemporary art to thrive in Nepal.
Sangeeta Thapa and Shasikala Tiwara formed this gallery as a meeting point for national and international artists. The gallery has conducted over 500 exhibitions over 35 years.
The gallery takes its name from Siddhartha Gautam, the birth name of Lord Buddha, representing the connection between art and spirituality in Nepali culture. They have successfully featured many artists from India, Pakistan, The Netherlands, and Bangladesh to name a few.
So they’re staying true to their motto. They’re also active in organizing art-related events, workshops, and seminars and have passionate and knowledgeable gallery curators’ and staff, which eases your art gallery experience.
Siddhartha art gallery has also been working as a great platform for upcoming artists to showcase their work.
- Location: Tanka Prasad Ghumti Sadak, Kathmandu
- Entry Fee: Free
- Opening Hours: 11 A.M. to 5 P.M
7. Museum of Nepali Art(MoNA)
The Museum of Nepali Art is a custom-built gallery displaying a diverse range of artwork in various media each with unique themes.
The founder of this museum, Rajan Shakya established this art museum in Nepal to support and showcase the work of developing Nepali artists as well as established Nepali masters.
You’ll be delighted with arts in contrasting Western styles in a local cultural context. Accompany a guided tour as they’re great at explaining the history and essence of the artwork.
The museum has subdued lighting, and an elegant interior, and embodies a modern yet traditional theme to it. The walls have contemporary arts that incorporate style and techniques from golden prints of Kathmandu’s temples to colorful acrylic abstracts.
There is even a painting that reimagines Mona Lisa as a cancer survivor. The thing that sets MoNa different from the rest of the museums in Nepal is that it not only displays art but also the work and resources that go behind it.
This museum has been a credible source of information for the reconstruction after the 2015 earthquake.
- Location: Tanka Prasad Ghumti Sadak, Kathmandu
- Entry Fee: Rs.700 for foreign visitors and Rs. 500 for Nepali
- Opening Hours: 11 A.M. to 6 P.M
8. Nepal Academy of Fine Arts
Next on the list of museums in Kathmandu, we have the Nepal Academy of Fine Arts. This art gallery has been a go-to place for all artists, art critics, and art researchers in Nepal.
It was established on April 13th, 2010. You’ll find a wide range of art such as paintings, sculptures, handicrafts, folk art, architecture, traditional art, contemporary art, alternative art, video art, performance, and installation art here.
This museum is a repository of artworks throughout history and a priceless source of knowledge about both traditional and modern art. It organizes national and international art exhibitions and also lets aspiring Nepali artists showcase their work.
Nepal Academy of Fine Arts promotes art education by providing various grants and scholarships. So you know you’re in a great place of art admires.
- Location: Naxal, Kathmandu
- Entry Fee: Free
- Opening hours: 10 A.M. to 5 P.M
Kathmandu has withstood so many things that it’s a lot to process for anyone. This is why art and history collection is crucial to remind everyone of its great resistance and showcase its true beauty. So, don’t miss out on these top art galleries and museums in Kathmandu and enlighten yourself with its real narrative.
10 Essential Nepal Travel Tips
Things to Know Before Travelling to Nepal
If you’ve made up your mind about planning to travel to Nepal, then chances are you’re probably confused. And why wouldn’t you be? Nepal is nature’s treasure. So, stepping into this fascinating land might fill you with excitement and dilemma.
While you might be all excited about tapping into the land of mountains, you might also find yourself anxious about exploring this wonderland. So, it’s best to know some Nepal travel tips before having rich cultural immersion and meaningful experiences.
These tips will not only prepare you to travel to Nepal easily but also will help you navigate Nepal better. After all, the only way to encounter limitations and risks is by preparing well, right?
10 Nepal Travel Tips To Enrich Your Nepal Travel Experience
For those of you who truly want to get the best Nepal travel experience, be mindful of these 10 Nepal travel tips and get the best out of this land.
Visa and entry requirements for Nepal
Your travel to Nepal doesn’t kickstart without a visa and an understanding of entry requirements. You can access a tourist visa on arrival at Kathmandu airport and the official overland entry point.
If you’re pretty excited, you can also apply for a visa up to 15 days till your arrival. You can find the required instructions on Nepal’s government official site. You’ll have to pay the following amounts for a different duration.
- A 15-day visa:: $30
- A 30-day visa:: $50
- A 90-day visa:: $125
Nepal has its way to tempt adventure seekers. So, if you feel like extending your stay, you have the option to do that as well.
You can extend your tourist visa for 150 days in a calendar year. You just need to fill out the form on the Nepal immigration website.
Money
Nepalese deal in Nrs(Nepali Rupees). And you can exchange them in banks and money exchange counters. Kathmandu has many places that exchange foreign currencies.
The Tribhuvan International Airport also lets you exchange money upon your arrival. There are 2 money exchange centres inside the airport at the arrival lounge. However, it is best to avoid exchanging your currency at the airport as they offer the lowest exchange rate.
Instead, you can go to various forex centres and banks. Normally, bank transactions take longer due to paperwork. So, you’ll have it much easier with Forex centres.
Nepal is quite affordable. So, even a little money can go a long way and you can travel to Nepal on a budget.
Avoid Trekking Solo
A trip to Nepal doesn’t get complete without trekking. So, the thought of exploring Nepal and its hidden gems on your own sounds liberating and full of adventure.
But the reality is it’s best to avoid trekking solo. This is because there has been a tremendous increase in the missing cases of solo travellers. Let’s be real. Something that’s supposed to be fun shouldn’t turn out to be such a terrifying issue.
Make sure you’re accompanied by travellers or guides or within a group when going for a trek. You can also find various online platforms to connect with fellow trekkers when preparing to trek in Nepal even if you’re travelling alone.
Travelling with a guide also makes your overall travel itinerary in Nepal a smooth process. They can easily help with you registering your permits, navigating the places, and acclimatising.
The best part about travelling in a group is you’ll have a lot of fun that’ll forever stay in your memory lane.
Travel Insurance
It’s pretty obvious. Travelling with travel insurance is a game changer. Specifically, the 2015 earthquake and Avalanche are a gentle reminder that unexpected occurrences can happen. That’s why, it’s best to get yourself covered to combat such moments of uncertainty.
A general travel policy covers necessities like the loss of baggage, and tickets, and include a refund or up to a certain limit – cash, in terms of cancellation or curtailment of your trip.
Some of the policies even cover extreme sports when you pay an extra premium. This can be helpful when you’re travelling to Nepal for whitewater rafting, trekking (especially above 4000m), and climbing.
When choosing your insurance with medical coverage, make sure to know whether benefits will be provided as treatment proceeds or only after returning to your country.
Expect Power Outages
Nepal has a long history of power outages. Keep that in mind as you prepare to travel to Nepal. Luckily, things have been better now. Power cutoff isn’t a major issue in big cities like Kathmandu, and Pokhara as it used to be before.
However, you might experience a shortage of power in remote areas. So, your experience while travelling to Nepal will be filled with constantly charging your electronic devices every time you get the opportunity. Invest in good power banks.
One of the smart travel tips to Nepal is to carry a universal adapter and a solar power charger. A flashlight is equally handy as you’ll be experiencing blackouts or exploring various places with limited light.
More Than Himalayas
Nepal has gained notoriety for its spectacular Himalayas. Don’t get us wrong. It has abundant Himalayas to leave you stunned. But it has a diverse topography and historic landmarks that equally deserve your attention.
Don’t limit your Nepal travel experience only to exploring the Mountains. Try giving various things a shot. You can go hiking or cycling across the hills. If you’re really in need of that serotonin, you can even go mountain biking and paragliding.
The sky’s the limit. Then there are stunning glaciers, deep valleys, and diverse ecosystems. And the rich historical architecture has an interesting story of its own. So, widen your exploration while visiting Nepal.
Prepare for Air Quality
Be prepared for bad air quality when planning a trip to Nepal. Recently, the air quality of Kathmandu has degraded a lot, making its way to one of the most polluted cities in the world.
And you’d be spending quite some time in places of Kathmandu. For individuals allergic to irritants in the air, this could spoil the overall travelling experience in Nepal. Always use a mask and carry extra medicines just in case.
As soon as you move far from Kathmandu, the air gets better as you move to the mountains.
Altitude Sickness is real
Don’t get taken away by the breathtaking view of snowcapped mountains. Altitude sickness will likely accompany you as you explore trekking routes in Nepal. Altitude sickness can occur at heights above 2,500m.
Even physically fit people have trouble with it. A good idea is to ensure that your travel insurance covers medical evacuation from altitude. Getting yourself checked with a doctor before the trip is helpful.
While exploring the mountains, drink water and eat even if you don’t have any appetite as you need a lot of strength.
Water Safety
The water quality in Nepal is not the greatest. Your body can have some difficulty adjusting to it. It’s best to avoid tap water. Carry some water purification materials and a filtration bottle while visiting Nepal.
The big restaurants and hotels have a good water system. However, that’s not the case with the local places.
Trekking Permit
You are required to have a trekking permit to trek in Nepal. You’ll need a TIMS card(Trekkers Information Management System) card to get into some of the popular trek routes like the Annapurna 7 passes trek and Everest Base Camp treks.
You can obtain a TIMS card from the tourist service centre in Kathmandu. You should submit a copy of your passport and 2 passport-style photos. If you want to save yourself from all the mess of acquiring permits, a tour operator and agencies can help you.
They’ll organise all permits on your behalf. This is included in their trekking package fee. You can get in-depth information about trekking permits here.
Best Time to Visit Nepal
The best time to set foot in Nepal is between October and December. You’ll be treated with clear skies and a favourable temperature. Hikers and climbers tend to visit Nepal throughout fall, autumn, and spring.
For trekkers, late September to late November offers a great experience as the weather is clear and you get the best view of the mountains.
Avoid monsoons if you can. It gets pretty messy. So, make sure you’re not visiting Nepal from late May to early September as the road is drenched with muddy water.
If exploring Nepal’s ecosystem and biodiversity is on your list, then Spring is a good time.
Conclusion
These Nepal travel tips might come across as simple. But they really help in making your overall travelling experience a delight and contentful. After all, a delightful travelling experience is what makes you enjoy the process and feel alive. Consider these mentioned things while preparing to travel to Nepal and you’ve embarked on a journey that’s worth celebrating for a lifetime.
Top 7 trekking routes in Nepal
Top trekking routes in Nepal that you must have on your bucket list
If there’s one thing that anyone should have on their bucket list is trekking in Nepal. The gorgeous nature, gigantic mountains, and dazzling glaciers all make up for an epic trekking experience in Nepal.
Unlike other places, travellers can choose among various trails and routes to kickstart their journey. All thanks to the perfect blend of divine nature and geographical diversity of Nepal. Now you can either go for short treks or challenge yourself with tough mountaineering expeditions.
No wonder Nepal manages to be among the most popular destinations for trekking. So, without further ado, here’s a list of top trekking routes in Nepal that you must have on your bucket list.
A list of Top Trekking Routes in Nepal
Everest Base Camp Trek
Everest base camp is among those trekking routes in Nepal that are loaded with stunning mountain views. This trek takes you to the lap of Everest without all the expediting of the mountain itself.
It is a 2-week trip that starts from Kathmandu to one of the highest airports in the world, Lukla.
During the route, you’ll witness the magnificent beauty of Namche Bazaar, and Tengboche Monastery, crossing breathtaking suspension bridges. The stunning scenery of the highest mountains in the world such as Lhotse, Changri, Ama Dablam, and Nuptse standing at heights of 8414m, 6027m, and 7861m will treat your eyes.
Since it happens to be one of the major trekking routes in Nepal, prepare yourself for a bit of a crowd. You’ll see two Everest basecamps at the endpoints of this trek namely North and South base camps. The best time to make this trip is from March to May and from September to November.
Major Attractions:
- Tengboche monastery
- Namche Bazar-an entrance to Mount Everest
- Khumbu Glacier
- Kala Patthar- the highest point of the trek- panoramic viewpoint of Everest.
Annapurna 7 Passes Trek
You can’t complete the best trekking routes in Nepal without Annapurna 7 Passes Trek. Annapurna 7 passes trek is a 20-day trek that explores part of the Annapurna Circuit.
This trek originated as a great alternative to the Annapurna Circuit Trekking route. This is because the original route has transformed into dirt off-road with an increase in the number of people going by jeep to start trekking at any point.
This trek covers 7 passes namely the Kuchurmo, Yarcha, Meta, Phu, Nar, Kangla, and the popular Thorong la. The trail will take you through uncovered forests, and narrow canyons and if you are lucky, you might even get to see Red Panda.
For those of you who are obsessed with mountains, this trek is heaven. The hidden valleys, breathtaking mountain views, and calm surroundings will enhance your trekking experience like no other. You can trek this place throughout all seasons.
Major Attractions:
- Trek alongside the unexplored and hidden Dona Lake
- Stunning view of Mt. Manaslu, Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Annapurna I, and other surrounding mountains.
- Explore the culture of Tibetan Nomadic tribes
Manaslu Circuit Trek
If you’re in the mood for challenging yet less crowded treks in Nepal, then the Manaslu Circuit Trek could be the best option. Unlike other popular teahouse treks in Nepal, Manaslu has a more remote and off-beat village hiking vibe to it.
It is a 14-day trek that starts at Seti Khola and ends at Beshi Sahar. The trail falls under the preservation area of the Manaslu region, which has protected the wildlife and vegetation in their natural state.
So expect authentic and raw natural beauty. You’ll be delighted with visual feasts from rice paddies, widespread green forests, and gorgeous waterfalls to rocky landscapes, rich local tribes, and monasteries to name a few. You can get the best out of this trek during the autumn(September- November) and spring (March-May) Seasons in Nepal.
Major Attractions:
- Cross the highest point with Larkya La Pass at the height of 5125m
- Birendra Tal, a popular lake in the Manaslu Glacier.
- Get in touch with the lifestyle of the Tibet-influenced tribe, Nubri People
- Picturesque view of Mt. Manaslu
- The diverse topography of the Manaslu conservation area
Langtang Trek
Langtang trek takes the title for short treks in Nepal. This is because the trek begins at Syabrubesi within 8 hour’s drive from Kathmandu.
This teahouse trek will transport you to a wonderland with green pastureland, stunning waterfalls, high alpine meadows, and widespread forests of bamboo, oak, and rhododendrons.
The trek takes 11 days of exploring Langtang Valley. If you are running short on time, then you can opt for a helicopter ride from Kyanjin. You’ll also explore the exquisite craftsmanship, culturally significant dresses, and beautifully carved wooden porches of the Tamang and Tibetan people residing in the village.
Major Attractions:
- Stunning view from Kyanjin Gompa and Langtang Gompa
- Langtang National Park
- Tap into the life of local indigenous people and their culture
- Helambu village, Gosaikunda, Vairab Kunda, Surya Kunda, Saraswati Kunda
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
For those of you who expect trekking in Nepal to be more challenging, this could be your sweet spot. Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a 21 days trek suitable for advanced trekkers at altitudes above 5,000 m.
The journey begins in Beni, a small town about a 2-3 hours drive from Pokhara. On the route, you’ll travel through the Myagdi Khola River to the Chhonbardan Glacier, at the foot of Dhaulagiri.
You’ll see barren farmland, snow-covered rocky mountains, and a magical view of Dhaulagiri, Tukuche, Nilgiris, and Annapurnas.
Major Attractions:
- Varied terrains, from green villages and barren lands to glacial deposits and snowy mountains.
- Town of Marpha, popular for its monastery and apple orchards.
- Spectacular views of Dhaulagiri (8,167 m) and various other 7000 m-plus peaks.
- Option to ascend Dhampus Peak(6,060 m) for experienced mountaineers.
- Discover less explored places of the Annapurna region with a high-altitude trek.
Gokyo Lake Trek
Since it is located to the west of the Everest Base Camp trek, it is a great alternative to explore the Everest region without the mess of a crowd. The Gokyo Lakes are six bodies of water or lakes located in the Gokyo Valley with altitudes ranging from 4700 to 5000m.
The turquoise water of Gokyo Lake leaves you mesmerised. Gokyo Lake trek is a 12-day trek that begins at Lukla. You’ll be walking for around 5 hours a day and cross Gokyo RI (5,357m) to view Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Makalu.
You can also opt for a helicopter tour in case you’re in the mood for a little fancy. The largest glacier in Nepal, Ngozumpa, and ice ridges are there to hypnotise you with their beauty.
The best season to trek here is from March to May and October to November.
Major Attractions:
- The hospitality of Gokyo Village
- Explore the calmness of sparking glacial lakes, specifically during the afternoon.
- the Ngozumpa glacier, and the diverse ecosystem of Sagarmatha National Park
- Sunrise and sunset views of Mount Everest and other peaks from Gokyo Ri (5357 metres)
Nar Phu Valley Trek
The Nar Phu Valley trek is one of the major trekking routes in Nepal that lets travellers experience the fascinating villages of Nar and Phu near Chame.
Nar Phu Valley Trek is a 9-day trek that is located between the Annapurna region and Manaslu region. You’ll be familiarised with the lifestyle of the Khampas (Tibetan refugees) by trekking in these less-explored regions of Nepal.
The breathtaking views of snow capped mountains, narrow canyons, dazzling glaciers, and deep gorges will make your short trek in Nepal quite a memorable one. Nar Phu villages are quite popular for their colourful Tibetan Buddhist chortens and will definitely lift up your spirit.
On the route, you’ll travel through Yak Kharka, followed by Thorong Phedi. You’ll then prepare for crossing the challenging Thorong La Pass – one of the highest passes in the world.
Splendid views of Himlung Himal, Tashi Lhakhang Monastery, and the unique blue sheep are a few of the highlights of this trek.
Major Attractions:
- Dip in hot springs at Tatopani
- Himlung Base Camp, Phu, Naar, and Thorong La passes
- Explore Tibetan-derived culture and lifestyle
- Tashi Lhakhang Gompa
- Tilicho Lake and Muktinath Temple
Major Trekking Routes in Nepal- A Summary
| S.No. | Best Trekking Routes in Nepal | Minimum Duration | Trek Permits | Maximum Altitude |
| 01 | Everest Base Camp | 14 Days | TIMS, Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit | 5600 meters, Kala Patthar |
| 02 | Annapurna 7 Passes Trek | 21 Days | TIMS, ACAP | 5416 meters, Thorong La Pass |
| 03 | Manaslu Circuit Trek | 14 Days | TIMS, MCAP, RAP | 5,160 meters, Larkya Pass |
| 04 | Langtang Trek | 8 Days | TIMS, Langtang National Park | 4,984 meters, Tserko Ri |
| 05 | Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek | 21 Days | TIMS, ACAP | French Pass (5370m) |
| 06 | Gokyo Lake Trek | 12 Days | TIMS, Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit | 5357 meters, Gokyo Ri |
| 07 | Nar Phu Valley Trek | 9 Days | TIMS, ACAP, NRA | 5416 meters |
The scenic routes, Himalayan trails, and natural wonders of Nepal will make you’re trekking a lifetime experience. Honestly, this land has so many variations that your quest for adventure never really ends. So, make sure to give these top trekking routes in Nepal a shot and embody nature’s magic in your memory lane forever.
Top 7 Places to Visit in Kathmandu
Explore the Top 7 Places to Visit in Kathmandu: A Guide for Travelers
A single word can’t capture the essence of Kathmandu. We mean the city is too much to process. The capital of Nepal has managed to leave its visitors amazed with a perfect blend of rush and calmness.
You’ll find yourself wondering how in the world a single place offers such diversity.
But that’s just Kathmandu being herself. Filled with historical landmarks, cultural experiences, and mystique scenic viewpoints, it has a lot to offer. So, if you happen to be in this place, you can’t take the risk of missing out on the best spots.
Here are the top 7 places to visit in Kathmandu to enrich your memory lane with exceptional travel experiences.
The Best Places To Visit in Kathmandu
Kopan Monastery
If you are looking for a little break amidst all the chaos of Kathmandu, then Kopan Monastery is the best spot to be.
It happens to be one of the secret places in Kathmandu that a lot of people have yet to discover. It resides in the valley area, just outside of Kathmandu, close to the Boudhanath Stupa.
It is a beautiful Tibetan Buddhist Monastery built during the late 1960s and early 1970s by the founders of the Foundation of the Preservation of the Mahayana (FPMT).
As a visitor, you can simply enjoy the beauty and serenity of the monastery or make a retreat ranging from Group retreats to Private retreats. You can also join a short-term (7 days )course to learn the basics of Buddhism.
Talk about an enlightening experience, right?
Kopan Monastery also organises various monastic events and celebrates festivals such as Losar (Tibetan New Year), Monlam (Great Prayer Festival), Tsip Shag (students progressing to a higher class), and many more.
So you’ll get to tap into a whole new world of celebration and unique activities.
- Location: Near Boudhanath, Kathmandu
- Opening hours: from 9 AM – 11:30 AM & 1 PM – 4:30 PM every day
- Entry Fee: Free of Charge
Swayambhunath
On the list, we have another Buddhist monastery that enriches the beauty of Kathmandu. Swayambhunath resides at the top of Semgu Hill to the west of the Kathmandu Valley.
Swayambhu translates to ‘’self-existent one.’ It was built by King Manadev.
It also goes by the name of Swayambhunath Stupa, Swayambhu MahaChaitya, and Monkey Temple. It is decorated with prayer flags and has a white dome stupa, an array of shrines, a museum, and a well-stocked library.
Listed under UNESCO World Heritage Site, this unique architecture is renowned for its distinct Buddha eyes. The eyes represent compassion and wisdom. You’ll also find a nose resembling a pattern in between the eyes, which is actually number one written in Devanagari.
You can go to this place in 2 ways. One is a series of stairs that leads to the main platform and the other is a car drive entrance that takes you to the southwest entrance.
- Location: On a hillock 3 km west of Kathmandu
- Opening Hours: 24 hrs
- Entry Fee: Rs.200 for foreigners and Rs.50 for SAARC nationals
Pashupatinath
The true beauty of Kathmandu lies in its temples and shrines. So, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that this Hindu temple manages to be among the most famous places in Kathmandu.
You can enter this temple only if you are a Hindu.
Pashupatinath resides on the bank of the Bagmati River. The grand sanctum is the home of Lord Shiva and attracts a large number of devotees and pilgrims. This place will leave you ruminating over life and appreciating the beauty in life.
This is because you get to witness religion, sheer devotion, and even the end of life as the cremation ceremony is performed in cremation ghats along the river Bagmati.
This famous tourist was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. The main temple of Pashupatinath has a golden pinnacle, also known as Gajur, and two Garbhagrihas.
This large temple has other mini temples within its premises namely Bacchareshwari Temple, Ram Temple, Gorakhnath Temple, and many more.
- Location: Pashupatinath Road 44621
- Opening Hours: From 4 AM – 12 PM & 5 PM – 9 PM every day
- Entry Fee: Rs.1000
Garden of Dreams
Wanna be transported to a dreamy place? Well, Garden of Dreams could be your answer. Garden of Dreams is the best place to visit in Kathmandu for couples.
The Garden of Dreams is a neoclassical garden also known as ‘’Swapna Bageecha’ and the ‘Garden of Six Seasons,’. The garden is filled with a gorgeous amphitheatre, beautiful fountains and ponds, trellises, and various planting areas.
The whole vibe of this place is that of a European garden. If you’re looking to spice up your Instagram feed, then this place is a must.
This garden serves as a good reminder that it’s not too late to fix broken and damaged relics. The garden was initially built by Kishore Narshingh in 1920. However, it was left abandoned for many years after his death. Until the Austrian government restored it and brought lost magic to this place.
The green grasses, flowers, and viridescent pond in the middle will just delight your eyes.
- Location: Tridevi Sadak, Near Thamel
- Opening Hours: 9 AM – 10 PM every day
- Entry Fee: Rs.320 for adults and Rs.160 for children
Thamel
A hub for tourists, Thamel still holds the title of a fun place to be in Kathmandu. The narrow alleys of Thamel will set you up for a whole new adventure. It has a perfect amalgamation of cultural possessions, cosy restaurants, live music spots, and many more.
You’ll find many foreign money exchange booths, numerous travel agencies, and guest houses all within your wants and budget. Thamel shows its true colour at night with its bars, pubs, and casinos. So, make sure to experience that.
Over a thousand years old, this place has a serene Vikramshila Mahavihara Monastery at its centre. The original story of Kathmandu Valley, “Swayambhu Purana,” is protected within this monastery.
In addition, it has various cultural monuments such as Tri Devi, Sunken Ganesh Shrine, Ghairi Dhara, Shiva Shrine, and Ashoka stupa. You can also purchase souvenirs such as pashmina, singing bowls, and prayer flags from within Thamel.
- Location: 20-minute taxi drive from Tribhuvan International Airport, and a 15-minute drive from Kathmandu bus station
- Opening hours: 24 hours
- Entry Fee: Free
Kathmandu Durbar Square
Kathmandu Durbar Square will take you back to the time with its rich history. This place represents authentic Kathmandu’s traditional architecture and embodies the skills of Newar artists and craftsmen over several centuries.
The Earthquake of 2015 left quite a lot of damage here.
However, that hasn’t ceased its legacy and glory. The two courtyards that makeup Kathmandu Durbar Square are the inner Hanuman Dhoka and the main palace, and the outer Kasthamandap, Kumari Ghar, and Shiva-Parvati Temple.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is also known as ‘’the Museum of the Temples’’ as it has over 50 temples in the square. The major attractions of this place include Taleju Temple, Kumari Temple, Jagannath Temple, Nasal Chowk, Narsingha statue, Kal Bhairav, and Tribhuvan Museum to name a few.
One of the major attractions of this site is Kumari Temple, the house of the living goddess Kumari. Make sure to visit the inner courtyard of Kumari Ghar in the morning, as it is less crowded at this time. You can see the kumari at the central window of the Kumari Ghar between 9 am and 11 am and around 4 pm.
- Location: Near New Road, Kathmandu
- Opening Hours: 24 hours
- Entry Fee: Rs. 1000 for foreigners and Rs. 200 for SAARS country citizens
Asan Bazaar
In the mood for a little hustle and bustle? Asan Bazaar is your perfect gateway. Asan is a marketplace that is constantly crowded with people. And you’ll get to see the daily life of Nepali people in this market.
Apart from having a crowded market, Asan has Annapurna Ajima Temple. It is a traditional three-tiered pagoda with wooden architecture. Moving a little farther, to the north of the square, you’ll find a temple dedicated to Lord Ganesh.
There is another shrine dedicated to Lord Narayan in the northwest. This place has been historically operating as a bazaar for decades. So, you can find anything between spices, vegetables, and local tea to clothing, footwear, woollens, brassware, copperware, religious items, and many more.
The fascinating thing about Asan is that the shops have been run for generations, thereby protecting their culture. Thus, it holds a special place in the heart of the people.
- Location: Chittadhar Marg, Kathmandu
- Opening hours: 24 hours
- Entry Fee: Free
Conclusion
Kathmandu has so much in store that one can’t help but stay stunned. For a city so rich in culture and history and now an urban spot, you’ll never run out of fun things to do in Kathmandu. Thus, don’t miss out on these top 7 places to visit in Kathmandu and retreat your soul with a lifetime experience.
Wrapping the list of best places to visit in Kathmandu
| S.N. | Places to visit in Kathmandu | Location |
| 01 | Kopan Monastery | Near Boudhanath, Kathmandu |
| 02 | Swayambhunath | On a hillock 3 km west of Kathmandu |
| 03 | Pashupatinath | Pashupatinath Road 44621 |
| 04 | Garden of Dreams | Tridevi Sadak, Near Thamel |
| 05 | Thamel | 20-minute taxi drive from Tribhuvan International Airport and a 15-minute drive from Kathmandu Bus Station |
| 06 | Kathmandu Durbar Square | Near New Road, Kathmandu |
| 07 | Asan Bazaar | Chittadhar Marg, Kathmandu |