The best times to visit Kathmandu are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is pleasant, and the skies are generally clear, offering good conditions for sightseeing and trekking.
Most foreign nationals will require a visa to enter Nepal. Tourist visas can be obtained on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or from Nepalese diplomatic missions abroad. Always check the current visa requirements with the nearest Nepalese embassy or consulate before planning your trip.
Must-visit attractions in Kathmandu include the Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Thamel district for shopping, and the Garden of Dreams for a peaceful retreat.
Kathmandu is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Keep an eye on personal belongings, be cautious in crowded areas, and avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.
The currency used is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). Money can be exchanged at banks, hotels, and licensed currency exchange counters in Kathmandu. ATMs are also widely available.
You can get around Kathmandu by taxis, rickshaws, hired cars, and public buses. Ride-sharing services are also available. For sightseeing, walking or hiring a guide with a vehicle can be convenient options.
Kathmandu is situated at an altitude of approximately 1,400 meters (4,600 feet) above sea level. Altitude sickness is not usually a concern in Kathmandu, but it can become an issue for trekkers going to higher elevations.
Must-try local dishes include Dal Bhat (lentils and rice), Momos (dumplings), Sel Roti (traditional homemade sweet bread), Newari Cuisine, and various Tibetan influenced dishes like Thukpa (noodle soup).
Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and many shops in Kathmandu, but it's advisable to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases and in areas where cards may not be accepted.
The essentials for a trip to Kathmandu include comfortable walking shoes, clothing suitable for the season (including layers for cooler evenings), a rain jacket, sunscreen, a hat, personal medication, and possibly a portable water filter or purification tablets.
