Nepal is best known for trekking and the Himalayas, but there’s a lot more to it than that. Kathmandu is one of the most chaotic, fascinating cities in Asia…full of temples, street food, rooftop bars, and a nightlife scene that most people don’t expect. Whether you’re here to hike, explore the city, or just decompress somewhere genuinely different, Nepal delivers. This guide covers what to do, where to stay, how to get around, and what to eat.
One week wasn’t enough for me…I already need to go back to Kathmandu.
| Capital | Kathmandu |
| Currency | Nepalese Rupee (NPR) |
| Language | Nepali (English spoken in tourist areas) |
| Best Time to Visit | Oct –Nov or Mar–Apr (clear skies, mild temps) |
| Visa | Visa on arrival available (15, 30, or 90 days) |
| Getting Around | InDrive, Pathao, taxis, local buses |
| Budget | $25–50/day mid-range; $10–20 budget |
| Electricity | 230V / Type C, D, M plugs |
An honest review of the Hyatt Regency Kathmandu. Pool, location in Boudha, points value, the secret gate to the stupa, and what happened to the hotel in 2025.
Skip the hiking guides, here are 5 things you actually have to do in Kathmandu. Temples, nightlife, food and more, from someone who spent time there.
Visiting Swayambhunath aka the Kathmandu Monkey Temple? Here are honest tips covering the 365 steps, entry fee, the monkeys, best time to visit, and what to expect at the top.
Visiting Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu? Here is an honest guide covering the Aarati ceremony, cremation ghats, entry fee, what to wear, and why you absolutely need a guide.
Kathmandu is a chaotic place to navigate. You’ll need to use Uber…well a variation of it at least.
A honest guide to Kathmandu nightlife as a solo traveler. House of Beers, Purple Haze Rock Bar, and everything you need to know about a night out in Thamel.
Looking for the best momos in Kathmandu? Skip the lists. Here is where I found the best momos in Nepal after eating them daily…and it was not where I expected.
| 🏙️ Kathmandu | ||
| District | Description | Best For |
| Thamel | The most popular area for tourists. Central, walkable, packed with restaurants, bars, trekking shops, and accommodation at every price point. Buzzy and lively day and night. | First timers, nightlife, budget |
| Boudha | Peaceful Buddhist district built around the famous Boudhanath Stupa. Much quieter than Thamel with great cafes, monasteries, and a more spiritual atmosphere. Where I personally stayed. | Peace, culture, mid-range |
| Patan | Historic city just south of Kathmandu with its own Durbar Square, artisan workshops, and a relaxed local feel. Good boutique hotel options and less touristy than Thamel. | Culture, boutique, history |
| Lazimpat | Upscale diplomatic area north of Thamel. Quieter, cleaner streets with good mid to high end hotels. Close enough to Thamel to walk but removed from the chaos. | Luxury, quiet, mid-range |
| 🏙️ Pokhara | ||
| Area | Description | Best For |
| Lakeside | The main tourist strip along Phewa Lake with stunning Himalayan views. Restaurants, bars, boat hire, and accommodation at all price points. The obvious base for most visitors. | First timers, views, all budgets |
| Damside | Quieter southern end of the lake. More relaxed than the main Lakeside strip with good budget guesthouses and a backpacker community feel. | Budget, backpackers, quiet |
| New Road Area | More local and less touristy than Lakeside. Good for travelers wanting to experience a more authentic side of Pokhara away from the main tourist bubble. | Local experience, mid-range |