Kathmandu

Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is a colourful city full of history, culture, and natural beauty. It is surrounded by the Himalayan mountains and has old temples, busy markets, and beautiful views. Tourists from all over the world come to enjoy its spiritual charm and lively atmosphere. The city is also famous for its festivals, music, and local traditions.

The city is home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. Walking through the narrow lanes gives visitors a glimpse of traditional Newari houses, local handicrafts, and delicious Nepali food. Choosing Nepal tour packages makes exploring Kathmandu easier with guided sightseeing, stays, and local experiences included.

Kathmandu is also an entry gate for trekking and adventure in Nepal. From here, travellers often begin their journey to the Himalayas, including famous treks to Everest Base Camp and Annapurna. The city provides both peace for spiritual seekers and excitement for adventure lovers.

Best Time to Visit Kathmandu:

The best time to visit Kathmandu is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons bring pleasant weather, clear skies, and stunning mountain views. Spring is full of blooming rhododendrons, while autumn offers cool temperatures and festive vibes. Winter (December to February) can be cold, but it is less crowded and good for budget travellers. The monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rainfall, making trekking difficult, though the valley looks green and fresh. For sightseeing, cultural tours, or treks, spring and autumn remain the most ideal times to enjoy Kathmandu at its best.

How to Reach Kathmandu:

By Air:

Direct Flights

1. Departure City: New Delhi, Kolkata, Varanasi
2. Arrival City & Airport: Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu
3. Time Taken: Around 1.5 to 2 hours
4. Airlines: Nepal Airlines, IndiGo, Air India, Vistara, Buddha Air

Connecting Flights

1. Departure City: Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad
2. Arrival City & Airport: Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu
3. Layover Cities: New Delhi, Kolkata
4. Time Taken: Around 5 to 7 hours (including layover)
5. Airlines: Air India, IndiGo, Vistara, Nepal Airlines

By Rail:

There is no direct train to Kathmandu. The nearest railheads are Gorakhpur (Uttar Pradesh) and Raxaul (Bihar), which are well connected to major Indian cities. From these stations, travellers can continue their journey by road to reach the Nepal border and then onward to Kathmandu.

By Road:

Kathmandu is connected to India by several land routes through border points like Sunauli, Raxaul, and Kakarbhitta. Travellers can take buses, shared jeeps, or private cars from Indian cities such as Gorakhpur, Patna, or Siliguri to reach Kathmandu. The road journey offers beautiful views of hills and valleys, though it can take 10-15 hours depending on the entry point.

Places to Visit Kathmandu:

There are many cultural and spiritual places to visit in Kathmandu that make the city unique. Each site tells stories of history, art, and religion.

1. Pashupatinath Temple: A sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located on the Bagmati River. It is a major pilgrimage spot for Hindus worldwide. Many visitors also come here to witness traditional rituals on the riverbanks.
2. Boudhanath Stupa: One of the largest stupas in the world, known for prayer flags and spinning wheels. It is a hub for Tibetan Buddhism. The peaceful environment makes it a favourite spot for meditation.
3. Kathmandu Durbar Square: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient palaces, temples, and statues. It is perfect for history lovers and photographers. Walking here gives a glimpse into the royal lifestyle of old Kathmandu.
4. Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): A hilltop stupa with sweeping views of the city, home to monkeys and a mix of Hindu and Buddhist culture. It is a symbol of Kathmandu Tourism and offers an amazing sunset view.
5. Thamel: A lively area with cafes, shops, and markets, ideal for buying gifts, enjoying food, and experiencing Kathmandu’s nightlife. Tourists also enjoy live music and cultural performances here.