16 recommended tourist spots in Kathmandu, Nepal, the city where the gods live

Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is the largest city in the country, with a population of around 1 million. Often referred to as the City of Glory or the Sky City, Kathmandu attracts countless tourists from around the world who come to explore its historic buildings, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, religious sites, and rich cultural experiences. The city is also known as the gateway to the Himalayas, drawing visitors for trekking in the Himalayas and to witness breathtaking landscapes.

In this article,16 must-visit sightseeing spots in Kathmandu will be introduced perfect for your travel itinerary. Be sure to use this as a reference for your Kathmandu adventure.

1. Swayambhunath Temple

One of the must-visit sites in Kathmandu is the Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple. Located about 2 kilometers west of the city center, it takes approximately 30 minutes to walk there. This ancient stupa sits atop a small hill and is considered the oldest Buddhist temple in Nepal. Visitors must climb 400 steps to reach the stupa, which stands at a height of 15 meters and offers a stunning view of the surrounding area.

Many people may have seen a mani wheel in photos, which is a Buddhist prayer wheel associated with Tibetan Buddhism. It is believed that for every rotation of the wheel, the number of prayers recited is counted, bringing happiness to the practitioner. This is an experience you shouldn’t miss when visiting Kathmandu.

Swayambhunath is also known for the numerous monkeys that inhabit the area, which is why it’s often referred to as the Monkey Temple. While they can be entertaining, be cautious, as they may play tricks on tourists or try to steal belongings. So, don't let their cuteness fool you!

2. Boudhanath

Boudhanath is a popular tourist destination located about 30 minutes by car from central Kathmandu. It is the largest stupa of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal and is considered a sacred site for Tibetan Buddhists. Standing at approximately 36 meters tall, Boudhanath is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Kathmandu Valley, making it a significant attraction.

One of the most striking features of the stupa is the colorful prayer flags that adorn it. These flags, known as "lungta," are symbols of happiness and well-wishing, and they create a vibrant atmosphere around Boudhanath, blending beautifully with the scenery of Kathmandu. Devotees of Tibetan Buddhism perform a ritual called "Kora," where they circumambulate the stupa 108 times, symbolizing the overcoming of ignorance and desire. The sight of many worshippers engaged in this ritual is truly impressive.

The area surrounding Boudhanath is bustling with souvenir shops, attracting tourists and creating a lively atmosphere. It’s a spot you definitely shouldn’t miss when exploring Kathmandu!

3. Pashupatinath

About 30 minutes by taxi from the Thamel area is Pashupatinath, the largest Hindu temple in Nepal. The Pashupatinath Temple is a sacred site for Hindus, dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva. It is also one of the main components of the Kathmandu Valley, which was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.

Located right next to the Bagmati River, a tributary of the Ganges, Pashupatinath features a cremation site where Hindu bodies are burned and turned to ashes. Here, the body of the deceased is purified with water from the Bagmati River, and the final rituals are performed before the human body is turned to ashes. While Pashupatinath is a popular tourist destination in Kathmandu, the temple itself is off-limits to non-Hindus. Tourists can only observe from the outside, but even that allows them to feel the unique atmosphere. Why not experience this cultural encounter that is distinctive to Kathmandu?

4. Kopan Monastery

Kopan Monastery is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery located on a small hill that can be reached by a leisurely one-hour walk from Boudhanath. It is known as a Gelug school monastery, which is considered to have strict discipline within Tibetan Buddhism. Inside the monastery, you can see many monks engaged in their practices, and this sight is definitely worth witnessing.

For foreigners, there are short meditation courses available that last about ten days, making it a great recommendation for those who want to learn meditation in Kathmandu. It will be an unforgettable experience where you can learn genuine meditation. There is also a bookstore, so if you're interested, it might be nice to pick up a souvenir. While it is a popular tourist spot in Kathmandu, it is relatively more tranquil compared to other attractions. Visiting it for a stroll when you're tired of the crowds in the city is also a good idea.

5. Patan

Patan is located about 20 minutes by bus from the center of Kathmandu. Its official name, Lalitpur, means City of Beauty. Patan is said to have been established in 299 AD, making it the oldest town in the Kathmandu Valley according to legend.

Famous for its traditional crafts such as Buddha statues and sculptures, Patan is known as an artistic town, featuring beautiful historical buildings. It is also said to be the birthplace of many artists. Compared to the center of Kathmandu, Patan sees fewer tourists, making it an ideal destination for those who prefer a more leisurely sightseeing experience. The reddish-brown streets offer a moment of tranquility.

6. Durbar Square

Durbar Square is located in the ancient city of Patan in Kathmandu. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Durbar Square is known for its array of temples and is a popular tourist attraction in Kathmandu. Unfortunately, it suffered severe damage during the 2015 Nepal earthquake, with many buildings in the square collapsing. Despite this, it remains a highly frequented tourist spot.

Local people in Kathmandu have used this square as a place of relaxation. As soon as you enter Durbar Square, you will see a statue of a Hindu deity nearby, where you might witness locals offering their prayers. While the area has been significantly affected by the earthquake, it is still a major tourist attraction that appears prominently in travel guidebooks about Kathmandu. It is hoped that the entrance fees paid by tourists will contribute, even in a small way, to the recovery of Kathmandu.

7. Hanuman Dhoka

Hanuman Dhoka is a popular tourist spot in Kathmandu located on the eastern side of Durbar Square. Constructed in the 17th century, Hanuman Dhoka was once the site of the palace where the kings of Nepal resided until the late 19th century. In 1886, the king moved to the current palace located on Durbar Marg, and the old palace is now a museum.

Hanuman refers to the monkey god featured in the Hindu epic Ramayana, while "Dhoka" means gate. True to its name, there is a statue of Hanuman right next to the gate, where he is said to guard it. You may witness local people coming to pray at the statue of Hanuman. This is a must-see tourist attraction in Kathmandu, so be sure to visit!

8. Dachchinkali Temple

Dattatreya Temple is a Hindu temple located about an hour and a half by car from the center of Kathmandu. Despite being a bit far from the city center, it remains a popular tourist spot in Kathmandu. The temple is dedicated to Kali, the consort of the supreme Hindu god Shiva, who is referred to as the bloodthirsty goddess. Pilgrims offer blood to Kali by slitting the throats of chickens and goats as sacrifices twice a week.

However, only Hindus are allowed inside the Dattatreya Temple, so tourists must observe from the outside. As a result, not all tourists may witness the same sights. This is a rare experience unique to Kathmandu. Around Dattatreya Temple, there are stalls where you can purchase souvenirs such as jewelry and small items. Although it requires a bit of travel from the city center, those interested might consider visiting for this unique experience.

9. Garden of Dreams

The Garden of Dreams is a beautifully maintained garden located near the Thamel area. It features the grand mansion of the Rana family, who once ruled Nepal. While Thamel is a bustling tourist destination filled with crowds, the Garden of Dreams offers a quiet and serene park that feels like a peaceful oasis. You might even forget for a moment that you're in Kathmandu.

The park contains several cafes, making it an ideal spot for those looking to relax during their sightseeing in Kathmandu. Although it is a popular park for tourists, you will notice that many locals frequent the area to unwind, as it serves as a refuge for the people of Kathmandu. It’s a great place to enjoy a cup of tea when you want to take a break and relax.

10. Thamel District

If you're looking for souvenirs during your visit to Kathmandu, be sure to check out the Thamel area. This spot truly has it all! Thamel is a popular tourist destination packed with various shops along narrow streets, always bustling with visitors. The vibrant atmosphere exudes a strong sense of Asia, local culture, and exotic flair, making it an exciting place to be.

You can fully immerse yourself in the feeling of being on a journey. The gift shops offer a wide variety of items, including small goods, teas, textiles, leather products, and clothing. Trying your hand at bargaining is a unique experience that you can only find in tourist areas. You’ll find comfort in the warm smiles of the local people. If you enjoy the vibe of a place that attracts backpackers from around the world, you might find yourself wanting to spend the whole day here. There are also plenty of restaurants, so if you get tired from shopping for souvenirs, you can indulge in delicious Nepali cuisine at one of the local eateries!

11. Kumari House

One of the prominent buildings in Durbar Square is the Kumari Ghar, known for its beautiful wooden carvings. This structure was built in 1757 by King Jaya Prakash Malla. The Kumari Ghar is the residence of the living goddess, known as the Kumari. These girls, around 10 years old, are not allowed to go outside, except during an annual festival when they make an appearance.

The Kumari is said to show her face for just a few minutes each day from the second-floor window of the Kumari Ghar. Tourists flock to catch a glimpse of the living goddess. She is believed to appear at 4 PM, and at this time, many visitors gather around the Kumari Ghar. Photography is not permitted. It feels like a scene straight out of a fairy tale from long ago. The existence of the Kumari Ghar in modern times is quite astonishing. If you're in Kathmandu, you definitely want to see the face of the goddess Kumari. It’s a recommended tourist spot.

12. Bhaktapur

Bhaktapur is located about 40 minutes by bus from the center of Kathmandu. Founded in 889 AD, Bhaktapur thrived as one of the capitals between the 12th and 18th centuries. It is also known as Padgaon, which means City of Faith. Recognized as one of the three capitals of the Malla Dynasty, it is famed for its beautiful historical architecture.

The city features buildings constructed by the Newar people, celebrated for their exquisite carving techniques, and has distinctive red brick streets. Compared to other areas in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur is relatively less crowded, making it easier to explore. The winding, narrow alleys lined with brick paths showcase shops for souvenirs, as well as areas that offer a glimpse into the everyday lives of the local residents. On clear days, you can enjoy views of the Himalayas from Bhaktapur.

13. Langtang National Park

Langtang National Park is one of the regions around Kathmandu known for its pristine natural environment. Established in 1976, it was initially designated as a nature reserve in the Himalayan region, and in 1998, the surrounding land was expanded, bringing the total area to approximately 1,710 square kilometers. The northern and eastern borders of Langtang National Park form the boundary between Nepal and Tibet.

The highest peak in Langtang National Park is Langtang Lirung, with an elevation of about 7,236 meters. Other majestic mountains, including Gangchempo and Dorje Lakpa, also exceed 7,000 meters. This beautiful mountainous area attracts trekkers from around the world, making it a must-visit destination for those looking to experience trekking in Kathmandu.

14. Nagarkot

When you hear Kathmandu, Nepal, many people might immediately think of the Himalayas. Nagarkot is said to be one of the best spots for viewing the Himalayan mountain range. Not only is Nagarkot famous for its stunning views of the Himalayas, but it is also well-known for the unbelievably beautiful sunrises and sunsets it offers. If you’re lucky, you might even witness a breathtaking sea of clouds! It's easy to understand why visiting Nagarkot can make you feel like you're in paradise.

Nagarkot is about an hour's journey from Kathmandu, making it possible for visitors staying in the city to depart in the morning, enjoy the sunset, and return the same day. For those with a bit more time, staying overnight in Nagarkot is a wonderful option. There are several hotels in this stunning location, so if you have the chance, an overnight stay in Nagarkot is highly recommended. A dreamlike landscape awaits you.

15. Annapurna Temple

The Annapurna Temple is located in Asan Chowk, an area in Kathmandu's old town that shares its name with the Annapurna mountain range. Its proximity to the center of Kathmandu makes it a convenient location for sightseeing. This area is bustling with activity, with many motorcycles passing through and a lively atmosphere.

The temple features a large triple-tiered tower, making it stand out prominently in Asan Chowk. The Annapurna Temple survived the earthquake in 2015. On the streets, locals can be seen selling vegetables, and there are many gift shops scattered around, making it a fun place to explore even if you're just strolling through. Be sure to stop by and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere!

16. Kalabhailab Statue

One of the most striking features in Durbar Square, lined with temples, is the statue of Kal Bhairav. This spot is popular among tourists in Kathmandu. At first glance, the Kal Bhairav statue may seem charming and cute, but Kal Bhairav is actually an embodiment of the god Shiva, representing terror and destruction. Upon closer inspection, you'll notice that he holds a severed head in his left hand.

While the Kal Bhairav statue is a popular tourist attraction, you'll often see locals coming to pray at the statue as well. Flowers and offerings for worship are sold around the statue, allowing visitors to witness the daily prayers of the local people, which is one of the major attractions of sightseeing in Kathmandu.

◎Summary

Each of these attractions offers a unique experience that can only be found in Kathmandu. Unfortunately, many of the city's heritage sites still bear the scars of the devastating earthquake that struck Nepal in 2015 and are in the process of recovery. It would be wonderful if our visits could help in some way to support Kathmandu's revival. In Kathmandu, you'll encounter sites that you won't see anywhere else.

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16 recommended tourist spots in Kathmandu, Nepal, the city where the gods live