Visit Kathmandu: 12 Must-See Places in Kathmandu for your Upcoming Trip (2024)
The home to the majestic Mount Everest, Nepal, is one of the world’s most beautiful countries. This landlocked country is divided into seven provinces that are all spectacular in their way. Apart from having mesmerizingly beautiful destinations, Nepal is immensely spiritual as well. Every year several thousand tourists visit this country from across the globe, and now it is your time to stay there.
When people imagine Nepal, the two things that come to their minds are the mystical view of Mount Everest and the colorful Kathmandu’s bustling streets. In this blog, we are going to talk about the best places to visit in Kathmandu. From the Patan Durbar Square to the Swambhunath Stupa, from Nayanhiti Palace Museum to Monkey temple, Kathmandu is full of wonderment and surprise. The entire ambience of Kathmandu seems surreal due to its rich heritage and spectacular natural views.
The history of Kathmandu dates back to the 15th century. That is why so many of the renowned spots in this city are so enthralling and majestic. Most tourists start their Nepal trip with Kathmandu as the transportation from there helps them travel to different parts of the country quickly. Being home to the only international airport in Nepal, Kathmandu is relatively easy to reach. The Tribhuvan International Airport in the city helps tourists from different countries get there without any problem. Many people arrive there by bus also, but that journey would not be comfortable. Shopping in Kathmandu is also an essential part of its attraction. You will also get to do that after planning a successful trip to the city. So, without wasting any more time, let us get all the important information regarding the best places to visit in Kathmandu.
Visit Kathmandu: 12 Must-See Places in Kathmandu for your Upcoming Trip
The destinations included in this blog are all quite famous among tourists. They are the pride of Kathmandu and Nepal.
1. Pashupatinath Temple
Even though Nepal is the birthplace of Lord Buddha, Hinduism is the most prevalent religion over there. Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu is one of the most sacred sites for the Hindu community in the world. With a majestic Jyotirlinga and 275 different temples, this site is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The pagoda-style architecture of this temple makes it unique and aesthetically pleasing. The Licchavi King Prachanda Dev commissioned this vast temple in 400 B.C.
For the past many decades, the Pashupatinath Temple is on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list. Unlike most temples in India, this temple has carved wooden rafters that make it immensely beautiful. You will see inscriptions, images, temples, and ashrams dedicated to Hindu deities throughout this temple complex. While exploring this site, do not forget to check out its inner sanctum. The surrounding view of this temple is equally mesmerizing.
Address: Pashupati Nath Road 44621, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal.
Entry Fee: Free for Indians. For others, it is INR 620.
Entry Timings: 4 am to 12 pm and 5 pm to 9 pm.
2. Durbar Square
One of the best places to visit in Kathmandu is the spectacular Durbar Square. Listed under the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, this site is unique due to its aesthetics and ambience. Mostly this area is a place for craftsmen, artisans, and artists to showcase their talents. By visiting Durbar Square, you will get a good idea about the culture and heritage of Nepal. One can explore the majestic Kathmandu Palace.
If you get there, do not forget to visit Kumari Chok. Kumari Chok is a region in Durbar Square where a little girl is worshipped as a reincarnation of Goddess Durga. There is a museum inside the palace complex where you can get more information regarding the kingdom.
Address: Digha Pahleza J P Setu Road, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal.
3. Indra Chowk
If you are fond of shopping and you want to buy some authentic Nepalese souvenirs on your trip, then Indra Chowk is the perfect place in Kathmandu for you. This street or Chowk in Kathmandu is the ideal combination of Nepalese culture and modernism. You can buy a variety of authentic Nepalese items from the stalls over there. Located in the Makhan Tole area of Kathmandu, the shops in this region are famous for handicraft items like thangka, beads, bangles, etc.
Another major attraction of this site is its proximity to the beautiful Sky temple. This temple can be seen from a far distance due to its four metal lions. But remember, if you are not a Hindu, you cannot enter this temple. The entire region surrounding Indra Chowk has a lot of character that can truly be appreciated by being there yourself.
Address: Kathmandu, Nepal.
4. Royal Botanical Gardens
Royal Botanical Gardens is one of the most well-maintained and peaceful areas of Kathmandu. Mostly used for having picnics or hiking, the Royal Botanical Gardens is home to many different varieties of floras. While exploring this site, you will notice the coronation pond, orchid house, cactus house, and others. The good idea is to avoid this site during the weekends as most Kathmandu locals visit there during this time.
Throughout this park, you will get to see beautiful rose or lily gardens. The surrounding scenery of this garden is quite beautiful. Spending some time amid the lush greenery of spectacular flora will undoubtedly cheer you up.
Address: Godawari 44709, Nepal.
Entry Timings: 10 am to 5 pm.
Entry Fees: INR 150.
5. Boudhanath
Boudhanath is a must-visit place in Kathmandu. Located at a half-an-hour walk from the main city center of Kathmandu, this site is quite famous for being one of the largest Stupas in the world. Like many other sites in Kathmandu, Boudhanath is also listed under UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It is believed that the construction of Boudhanath was completed in 590 BC by the Licchavi King, Sivadeva. Sadly, the devastating earthquake of 2015 damaged a significant part of this breathtakingly beautiful Stupa.
But since 2016, the site has returned to its previous glory by getting a major renovation. It is believed that more than 30 kg of gold of the statue had to be replaced due to the damages. This Stupa is a unique and majestic site to visit. The remains of Kassapa Buddha are believed to be staying inside the Stupa.
Address: Buddha Stupa, Boudhanath Sadak, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal.
Entry Fees: INR 250.
Entry Timings: Open 24 hours.
6. Kopan Monastery
Located at the Northern side of Boudhnath, Kopan Monastery is one of the most notable places to see in Kathmandu. The beautiful architecture of this Buddhist site amid the vast expanse of natural allure makes it one of the city’s most-visited sites. Most people visit this monastery while walking away from Boudhnath to Gokarna Temple.
There is much lore associated with Kopan Monastery. Locals believe the founder of this site, Lama Thubten Yeshe, is reincarnated.
A few years back, a Spanish boy was declared to be the Lama’s reincarnation. He even stayed at this site for a few years, but now he has returned to Spain and stays in Ibiza. If you go there, do not forget to know more about its fascinating history. Apart from the said facts, the Kopan monastery allows you to see a lot about Buddhist psychology and philosophy.
Address: Kopan Monastery, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal.
7. Taudaha Lake
If you love quaint places with immense scenic beauty, then Taudaha Lake in Kathmandu is a great place for you to visit. This lake is one of the most beautiful sites in Kathmandu and is often visited by locals and tourists alike. The name of the lake “Taudaha” translates to “Snake” and “Lake.” Like many other regions of Nepal, this lake is also associated with many folklores. The most common one that can be heard regarding Taudaha Lake is surrounding Manjushree, the mythical Buddhist character. It is believed, Manjushree scrapped off the hill surrounding the lake and drained its water.
Many Nagas, mythical creatures that are half-human and half-snake, became homeless due to the above myth. Then the Taudaha lake was constructed so the Nagas can live in peace. Even though none of the said facts have been verified, local people believe them with their hearts. This lake is excellent for bird-watching, strolling, boating, etc.
Address: Kirtipur, Kathmandu, Nepal.
8. National Museum of Nepal
The National Museum of Nepal in Kathmandu is a great place to know Nepal’s history, culture, and heritage. This museum is not only known for its findings but also its architectural beauty. You will find it to be one of the most beautiful museums. The compound surrounding the museum is exceptionally well-maintained. Commonly the National Museum of Nepal is known as Chhauni Museum.
It is one of the few places in the world where you will get to see Judda Art. In its galleries, the Judda art-inspired artifacts make this site even more enjoyable. You will see deities of different Nepalese Gods and Goddesses, terracotta pieces of jewelry, statues, etc., in the building’s other galleries. This site is even more important to the Buddhist people because it has all the Lord Buddha’s manuscripts. If you visit there, you will genuinely get a lot of important information regarding Buddhism and Nepal.
Address: Kathmandu 44600, Nepal.
Entry Timings: 10.30 am to 4.30 pm.
Entry Fees: INR 300.
9. Casino Royale
One of the unique things about Nepal is its Casino culture. Spending an evening in casinos’ excitement is one of Nepal’s must-do things, and where better to do it than the Casino Royale. This luxurious casino is quite popular, and tourists across the globe do not forget to visit there. This site was the Rana Palace in the earlier days, but now it has been converted into the Yak and Yeti hotel. With a large number of tables, people can participate in a variety of games over there.
If you want, you can play card games or gamble a little. Otherwise, you can enjoy yourself by having a hearty meal. Casino Royale serves lip-smacking dishes in a scrupulous buffet. The best part about this institution is that you will not have to pay any entry fee to get there. Casino Royale is the best place in Kathmandu to have fun.
Address: Lal Durbar Marg 17, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal.
10. Tribhuvan Museum
Located at the Hanuman Dhoka Palace premises, the Tribhuvan Museum is one of the most famous places in Kathmandu. Constructed in the 19th century, this museum is filled with artifacts of the famous Nepali King Tribhuvan Bir Bikram Shah. In the olden days, this site was used by the King to conduct meetings. Now, if you go there, you will get the authentic feeling of the ancient days. You will be in awe of the different belongings of the late King.
Apart from the King’s artifacts, you will also see his famous collection of coins and guns. He was pretty fond of hunting, so he had such a comprehensive collection of hunting equipment. The architecture and the area surrounding this museum are quite beautiful and unique. If you look at the museum from the outside, you will not even guess what it is. Do not forget to bring your camera with you to capture the beauty of the museum complex.
Address: Kathmandu 44600, Nepal.
Timings: 9. 30 am to 3 pm.
Entry Fees: INR 150.
Kathmandu is a city that is full of surprises and wonderment. Covering all of its significant sites is impossible in a single blog. Apart from the places mentioned above, some of the other notable areas of this town include Bhaktapur, Khawalung Monastery, Ashok Binayak, Singha Durbar, and many more. While exploring Kathmandu, you will get transported to another era of civilization. Every corner of this mysterious city worthy of your attention. We hope you have a lovely trip by studying this blog.