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Kathmandu

Kathmandu, locally known as Yẽn, is the capital and largest city of Nepal, serving as the nation's main governmental, financial, industrial, and cultural centre. Nestled in the Kathmandu Valley at an elevation of 1,324 metres, this ancient city blends medieval heritage with modern vitality.

Quick facts

Population
Currency
Nepalese rupee (NPR)
Language
Nepali
Timezone
+0545 (UTC+5:45)
Local time now
17:04:59

Hotels in Kathmandu

Kathmandu offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. From Hotel Holiday Taj to Hotel Hardik, visitors can find hotels throughout the city to serve as a base for exploring Nepal's capital and its surrounding cultural landmarks. See all hotels →

Shiva Tirupati Hotel
168 m from centre
Royal Singi Hotel
267 m from centre
Hotel Kamal
277 m from centre

Airports in Kathmandu

Kathmandu is served by त्रिभुवन अन्तर्राष्ट्रिय विमानस्थल, which handles international and domestic flights connecting the city to destinations around the world. This airport is the primary aviation gateway for visitors and residents traveling to and from Nepal's capital. See all airports →

Car Hire in Kathmandu

Kathmandu offers several car hire options for visitors and locals needing vehicle rentals. Services like Car Rental Kathmandu and टुर एक्सप्रेस एण्ड भेहिकल सर्भिस प्रा.लि. provide access to vehicles for exploring the city and surrounding areas. See all car hire →

टुर एक्सप्रेस एण्ड भेहिकल सर्भिस प्रा.लि.
289 m from centre
Ason
822 m from centre
Asan
826 m from centre
Car Rental Kathmandu
938 m from centre

Things to Do in Kathmandu

We're still gathering things to do listings for Kathmandu — check back soon.

Restaurants in Kathmandu

Kathmandu offers a diverse selection of dining establishments, from traditional Nepali cuisine to international flavors. Restaurants such as Lion Heart Tandoori Kitchen, Kamaladi Bhancha Ghar Restaurant and Bar, and Samins Before Lunch And Restaurant And Bar showcase the city's vibrant food culture and welcoming hospitality. See all restaurants →

Kamaladi Bhancha Ghar Restaurant and Bar
93 m from centre
Samins Before Lunch And Restaurant And Bar
123 m from centre
Lion Heart Tandoori Kitchen
142 m from centre

Swimming Pools in Kathmandu

Kathmandu offers several swimming pool facilities for both locals and visitors. Options include the National Swimming Pool, Bajra Sports Centre, Ambe Apartments Swimming Pool, Himalayan Hotel's swimming pool, and Nyatapole Swimming Pool. See all swimming pools →

National Swimming Pool
1.6 km from centre
Bajra Sports Centre
1.9 km from centre
Ambe Apartments Swimming Pool
2.5 km from centre

Spas in Kathmandu

We're still gathering spas listings for Kathmandu — check back soon.

Nightlife in Kathmandu

Kathmandu offers a diverse nightlife scene with venues ranging from relaxed lounges to energetic dance clubs. Popular spots include Colosseum Lounge and Bar, रातको रानी नृत्य बार, फारेनहाइट क्लब, Vip Lounge, and क्लब नाशा र नृत्य, each offering its own atmosphere for evening entertainment. See all nightlife →

Colosseum Lounge and Bar
316 m from centre
रातको रानी नृत्य बार
428 m from centre
फारेनहाइट क्लब
969 m from centre

Bars in Kathmandu

Kathmandu offers a diverse bar scene with venues ranging from casual hangouts to lively nightlife destinations. Whether you're looking for a relaxed evening or energetic atmosphere, establishments like Bar 1 Durbarmarg, Roots, Small Star, and Nasha Bar provide options for visitors and locals alike. See all bars →

Bar 1 Durbarmarg
370 m from centre
दोर्जे रेस्टुरेन्ट
831 m from centre
Roots
1.0 km from centre

Cafes in Kathmandu

Kathmandu's cafe culture offers a blend of traditional and modern dining experiences. From Himalayan Java Coffee to local favorites like Chiya Ghar and Sahara Tandoori Cafe, visitors can enjoy refreshments ranging from traditional Nepali tea to contemporary coffee in the heart of the city. See all cafes →

Big Bell Sweets And Snacks Pvt.Ltd
96 m from centre
मिन पसल
124 m from centre
Himalayan Java Coffee
252 m from centre

Shopping in Kathmandu

Kathmandu offers a variety of shopping destinations for visitors and locals alike. From modern malls like Rising Mall, Star Mall, and Sherpa Mall to traditional retail at Bagbazar Store, the city provides diverse shopping experiences across different neighbourhoods. See all shopping →

Rising Mall
229 m from centre
Rising Mall
255 m from centre
Star Mall
289 m from centre

Nature & Wildlife in Kathmandu

Kathmandu offers several peaceful parks and gardens where visitors can experience nature within the city. From the Garden of Dreams to Peace Park and Bhrikuti Mandap Park, these green spaces provide respite and opportunities to connect with the natural environment. See all nature & wildlife →

Peace Park
557 m from centre
रत्न पार्क
585 m from centre
Khula Manch
657 m from centre
Bhrikuti Mandap Park
800 m from centre
Garden of Dreams
857 m from centre
नन्दी सामुदायिक पार्क
870 m from centre

Climate snapshot

Kathmandu experiences a temperate climate shaped by its mountain valley location. The city enjoys mild temperatures throughout much of the year, with distinct seasons bringing varied weather patterns across spring, summer, autumn, and winter.

Interesting Facts About Kathmandu — Weird & Wonderful

  • Kathmandu stands at an elevation of 1,324 metres (4,344 ft) above sea level in the central Kathmandu Valley.
  • The city was known as Kantipur from ancient times through the medieval period, and is also referred to as Kasthamandap.
  • Kathmandu is home to approximately 4 million people in its surrounding metropolitan area, making it a major regional hub.
  • The 2021 Nepal census recorded 845,767 people residing in the city proper across 105,649 households.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kathmandu

What currency is used in Kathmandu?

The currency used in Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). Currency exchange services are widely available in Kathmandu.

What language do people speak in Kathmandu?

Nepali is the primary language spoken in Kathmandu and throughout Nepal. English is also widely understood in tourist areas and among younger residents.

What region is Kathmandu in?

Kathmandu is situated in the central part of Nepal within the Kathmandu Valley and is located in Kathmandu District.

How high is Kathmandu above sea level?

Kathmandu sits at an elevation of 1,324 metres (4,344 ft) above sea level, which contributes to its pleasant climate.

What is Kathmandu's historical significance?

Kathmandu was known as Kantipur from ancient times until the medieval period and is also historically referred to as Kasthamandap, reflecting its rich cultural heritage.

Map of Kathmandu

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