Kathmandu holidays

How to reach Kathmandu

• Flight time: Flights to Kathmandu from the UK take upwards of 12 to 14 hours, depending on the route. There are no direct flights, so you'll likely transit via a hub in Europe or the Middle East.

• Transfer time: The transfer from Tribhuvan International Airport to central Kathmandu usually takes 30 to 45 minutes by taxi or shuttle bus, depending on traffic. Regular buses are available but aren't as good an option as taxis or shuttle buses.

• Price: Pre-paid taxis can be booked in the airport for around Rs800–Rs1,000 (£5–£6). Some hotels offer a free shuttle service, so check about this when booking accommodation.

Best time to visit Kathmandu

Deciding when to visit Kathmandu depends on whether you want to experience the bustling festival seasons or a quieter time with cooler weather. Peak tourist season coincides with the best trekking weather, but that’s also when Kathmandu is busiest. Here’s a breakdown:

• Late September to late November is Kathmandu’s peak season, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 26°C. With clear skies and minimal rainfall, it's ideal for outdoor activities, and the city is filled with festival celebrations such as Dashain and Tihaar.

• December to January sees colder temperatures, with daytime highs of around 10 to 15°C and night-time lows close to 0°C. Though dry and sunny, you’ll need to wrap up warm in the mornings and evenings. This is low season, so fewer crowds but also fewer events.

• February to mid-April is one of the most popular times to visit, with rising temperatures (16 to 25°C) and longer days. There can be some hazy days hiding the mountains and a few pre-monsoon showers, but it's a great time to see the gardens, temples and countryside in bloom.

• Mid-April to September brings hotter weather, humidity and showers. From July, the monsoon proper begins, with temperatures hovering around 20 to 26°C. It can rain a lot, and the city can get quite humid. Outdoor plans can be affected, but it’s a quieter time to explore Kathmandu’s indoor sights.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Nepali is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few basic Nepali phrases can be helpful and is always appreciated.

• Local habits and customs: People in Nepal are amiable and curious, but society, in general, can still be somewhat conservative, so modest dress is encouraged, particularly when visiting religious sites. Always remove your shoes before entering a temple and avoid touching anyone with your feet, as it is considered rude.

• Health and safety: Kathmandu is generally safe for tourists, but like any big city, keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas. Tap water is not safe to drink, so stick to bottled or purified water, and be careful what and where you eat and drink – even ice in drinks or fruit washed in tap water can cause you problems. Make sure you get comprehensive health and travel insurance before you go.

• Currency: The Nepalese rupee (Rs) is the local currency. ATMs are available across the city, and most places dealing with tourists accept credit or debit cards, though there are sometimes charges for payments. It’s also wise to carry some cash for other types of places and smaller purchases, and US dollars are sometimes better received than rupees.

• Getting around: The old city is best explored on foot, but taxis, minibuses and microbuses (or tempos) are widely available for travelling further afield. Standard taxi fares start at Rs300 (£1.75) for short rides, and you can expect to pay Rs800–Rs1,000 (£5–£6) for longer journeys across the city. You can also use ride-hailing apps like Pathao or Tootle.

• Electricity and plug types: Nepal electricity is 220V and uses a mix of plug types, including mainly European-style two-pin plugs. UK visitors should take a universal adapter. Power cuts are common when generators often kick into action, so use stabilisers for sensitive equipment.

• Time zone: Kathmandu operates on Nepal Time (NPT), 5 hours 45 minutes ahead of GMT.

• Required travel documentation: UK travellers need a visa (15, 30 or 90 days) to enter Nepal, which can be obtained at the airport or online in advance – saving time queuing upon arrival. It’s a simple process, but bringing passport-sized photos and paying in US dollars will speed things up.

Best things to do in Kathmandu

Kathmandu is a thrilling city filled with many spiritual, historical and cultural attractions, a great eating out scene and vibrant nightlife. Here’s a look at the best experiences you can enjoy during holidays to Kathmandu:

The best districts

• Thamel: Thamel is Kathmandu’s tourist hotspot, with a range of accommodation, vibrant nightlife, shopping and good eating out. Wander around to find quirky bookshops, local restaurants and live music venues.

• The Old City: The narrow alleyways around Durbar Square teem with temples, shrines, the old royal palace and holy men, although the area is still recovering after the 2015 earthquake.

• Asan Bazaar: A traditional market area where locals come to shop for everything from spices to fresh produce. It’s one of the most authentic experiences in the city and a great place to pick up local souvenirs.

Historical monuments

• Durbar Square, Kathmandu: Located in the heart of the city, this historic square is home to royal palaces, ancient temples and intricately carved wooden architecture. A wander around here takes you back to the glory days of Nepal’s former kingdoms.

• Durbar Square, Patan: A short trip across the river from central Kathmandu, this square in Patan is a marvel of Newari architecture, where you’ll find beautifully preserved temples and courtyards.

Day trips in the area

• Boudhanath: This area in the northeast of the city is home to the famous Boudha Stupa, one of the world's largest spherical stupas, and is a hub for Tibetan Buddhism. Expect to find peaceful monasteries, meditation centres and quaint cafés serving Tibetan food.

• Bhaktapur: A well-preserved medieval city just outside Kathmandu, Bhaktapur is like stepping into a living museum, with narrow streets, ancient squares and beautiful temples.

• Nagarkot: Popular for its sunrise views over the Himalayas, Nagarkot is a favourite for day trips, offering a peaceful retreat with excellent hiking trails and fresh mountain air.

Activities for families in Kathmandu

Kathmandu is surprisingly family-friendly, with plenty of activities for children of all ages. Here are some suggestions to keep everyone entertained:

• Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): Perched on a hill, Swayambhunath offers a stunning panoramic view of Kathmandu Valley. It’s a peaceful spot, and the climb up is well worth it for the sweeping vistas and the view of the resident monkeys.

• Garden of Dreams: The beautiful neoclassical gardens of Kaiser Mahal are a serene spot where families can enjoy some peace in the middle of the bustling city – perfect for a leisurely walk or picnic.

Free things to do in Kathmandu

Exploring Kathmandu doesn’t have to break the bank. Plenty of free activities or events will make your Kathmandu holidays memorable.

• Pashupatinath Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this sacred Hindu temple on the banks of the Bagmati River is one of Nepal's most important religious sites. Visitors can witness traditional cremation ceremonies and explore the various shrines scattered around the complex.

• Hiking: Nepal is renowned for its hiking, and several options are easily accessible from Kathmandu. Shivapuri National Park offers well-marked trails through lush forests, where you can see local wildlife and have panoramic views of the valley. The quiet retreat or Nagarjun Forest Reserve also rewards visitors with incredible views of the city and beyond.

Wellness in Kathmandu

• Yoga and meditation centres: Kathmandu is incredibly well served for those looking to practise yoga or meditation, with classes and sessions offered by many centres and retreats. The Pranamaya Yoga Centre has a variety of daily sessions, plus retreats outside the city in Pharping.

• Spas and traditional body care: The city has several spas offering treatments and massages, including traditional Nepali, Ayurvedic and Tibetan options. The Tranquility Spa, for example, is recommended for its range of therapies in Thamel and other locations.

Local dishes in Kathmandu

Kathmandu offers a wide variety of Nepali, Tibetan, Indian and Chinese food alongside "international" cuisine for visiting tourists. The traditional Nepali dishes are well worth seeking out. Whether sampling some street food or dining at a local restaurant, there’s plenty to delight your taste buds.

Some typical dishes

• Daal Bhaat: Nepal's national dish consists of lentils (daal), rice (bhaat), vegetables and pickles to add spice. It’s a daily staple meal in every home, and good versions are worth seeking out in restaurants.

• Momos: Tibetan-inspired steamed dumplings filled with minced meat or vegetables, served with spicy chutney. They are a local favourite and perfect for a quick snack or part of a meal.

Meat dishes

• Sekuwa: Skewers of meat, usually goat or chicken, marinated in a mix of spices and herbs and grilled over an open flame.

• Choyla: A spicy Newari dish made from cubes of buffalo meat mixed with mustard oil, ginger, garlic and chillies, then fried.

Street food

• Samosas: These deep-fried pastry parcels, filled with spiced potatoes and peas, make a handy street snack that's easy to pick up across Kathmandu.

• Chatamari: Often referred to as ‘Nepali pizza’, this Newari dish is a flatbread made from rice flour topped with eggs, minced buffalo meat and fresh herbs.

Local drinks

• Raksi: A potent alcoholic drink made from distilled rice or millet, similar to grappa or sake, commonly made at home in the hills of Nepal.

• Tongba: A warm millet-based drink usually served in a wooden vessel with a straw. It's refilled with hot water until all the flavour is extracted.

• Chiya: Nepal’s version of chai is brewed with milk, sugar and spices like cardamom and ginger – perfect for warming up during chilly mornings.