A piece of applicable travel information reveals the best places to visit in Kathmandu Valley, Nepal. Combination with the renowned most iconic temples, religious, historical, and cultural sites, popular landmarks, awesome attractions, and ideal day tours.

The Kathmandu Valley, positioned below the rugged and majestic mountains, is a gem in the coronate of Nepal. Kathmandu has been a famous travel terminus for all travelers and adventurers for exploring drawn to the myth of the city’s gorgeous natural landscapes, prosperous cultural heritage, and friendly and warm welcoming of awesome people.

However, if you are exploring the capital city of Kathmandu before commencing on the well-known Everest Base Camp Trek or studying the city’s ample UNESCO World Heritage sites inclusion of temples, shrines, religious monuments, and historical places – this post will help you enough information about the sites.

Afterward traveling to Nepal on different five auspicious occasions, I organized a useful travel guide post wrapping the best spots to explore in Kathmandu Valley based on the historical, cultural, and religious sites. Here, in this post, you can find the best and most familiar temples, and religious, historical, cultural, and touristic attractions covered with some hidden jewels and unpredicted things to do in Kathmandu for strangers and continuous visitors.

First: The way to explore the Top Attractions in Kathmandu

Let’s try to learn about the history of Kathmandu Valley, This is the capital and largest city of Nepal nestled in the heart of Nepal. The city carried the history back to 2000 – year expanding the area of 49 kilometers (19 square miles). Likewise, the most popular attractions and spots of value for exploration lie in the surrounding metropolitan cities of Kathmandu, Lalitpur (Patan), and Bhaktapur.

• Kathmandu Durbar Square – Kathmandu Durbar Square is located at the center of Kathmandu where the kings were held over on a throne crowned and legitimized as from where they govern. The Palace lies in the ancient point of the old city and Kathmandu’s most marvelous sites of monumental Newari art and architecture

• Patan Durbar Square – The classical royal palace of Patan Durbar Square is magnificent and carries a concentrated mass of temples, monuments, and shrines reflecting the clear visualization of outstanding Newari art and architecture. Most of the architectures were carved in the reign of the Malla period (14th to 18th centuries), most importantly the development of the palace was constructed in the medieval period when King Siddhinasingh Malla (1619-60) ruled over it.

• Bhaktapur Durbar Square – The palace is located at the Bhaktapur, it was formed by the Malla kings from the 14th to 15th century and the returns of development go to King Bhupatindra Malla.

• Bouddhanath Stupa – This is one of the largest stupas in the world significant for Tibetan Buddhism.

• Pashupatinath Temple: – Pashupatinath temple is the great Hindu shrine located at the bank of the Bagmati River where you can observe the daily cremation system on Hinduism in the pyre of fire.

Best Places to explore in Kathmandu Valle

#01. Bouddhanath Stupa (Largest Stupa in Asia)

Bouddhanath Stupa is one of the best attractions for your exploration in Kathmandu if there is one thing you want to do in Kathmandu. This 36–meter stupa is to largest in Asia at over 100 meters in circumference. The Bouddhanath Stupa is a sacred place included by UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. This huge white dome-shaped structure is a nice sacred spot surrounded by colorful prayer flags will be your favorite site to explore in Kathmandu for sightseeing and photography. Many Tibetan people visit this site as it has strong connections with Tibetan Buddhism. All the devotees round the stupa in a clockwise direction, spinning the prayer wheels and chanting the “OM Mani Padme Hum” Buddhist mantra while they are walking.

In addition, the area of Bouddhanath Stupa is surrounded by many traditional Tibetan monasteries also called Gumbas and this recites the place under the dominations of Tibetan culture in Nepal.

#02. Thamel
Thamel is the main tourist hub of Kathmandu city. This is the area most of the tourists visit and stay where you can find thousands of travel companies, trekking shops, hotels, hostels, restaurants, and bars. The main street, Thamel Marga is connected with other side roads of different places. Among all, Mandala Street is the best for walking adorned with prayer flags that various cafes and restaurants have.

#03. Pashupatinath Temple

Pashupatinath temple is the great Hindu shrine in Nepal located at the bank of the Bagmati River where thousands of pilgrims from Nepal and India visit for worship. Mainly at the festival of Teej and Shivaratri pilgrims gather to worship lord shiva. On the occasion of Shivaratri, lots of Sadhus and Babas from different parts of Nepal and India visit this place and worship lord Shiva in the Teej festival, many Nepal women take the fasting and pray for their husbands’ longevity. Within sharing borders with two cultural phenomena, India and China were impressed with diverse cultural and historical impacts in Nepal from both Hindus and Buddhists.

In the case of Kathmandu, Bouddhanath stupa is regarded as the main Buddhist shrine and the Hindus respect the Pashupatinath temple for their main deity dedicated to Lord Shiva. The origin of this place dates back to the 5th century which is one of the most popular holiest places in the world. The spot is a huge collection of structures of varieties of shrines, courtyards, and cremation spots that decorated the temple complex. Once you visit there you can vividly study the Hindu cremation ceremonies, where bodies are burned in a pyre of fire.

#04. Garden of Dreams

If you want far from the hectic bustling streets of Thamel, there is a place for your hanging out in the Garden of Dreams. This neo-classical garden is located just opposite of Himalayan bank next to the Narayanhiti Museum. This perfect garden was built by Keshar Samser Rana known for being one of Nepal’s valuable military figures of the time. Nowadays, many people use to visit this garden for peaceful hanging out and many tourists from around the globe explore the unique architecture of old construction and rest from the far crowded city life and best for photography.

#05. Kopan Monastery
The Kopan Monastery is under the domination of Tibetan Buddhism settled down at the northeastern part of the Kathmandu Valley nearby hilltop, around about 6 km and 20-minute taxi or motorbike drive from Thamel. This area is best suited for meditation, a peaceful and relaxing Buddhist place that provides you with genuine Tibetan Gompa in the foothills of the majestic mountains.

Most importantly, this Monastery presents visitors with the opportunity to explore a day trip, or for spending a few days or weeks with the study about Buddhism.
Because of its altitudinal location, the Kapan Monastery is most perfect observation place to behold the panoramas of Kathmandu Valley vividly including beautiful mountains in the surroundings.

#06. Kathmandu Durbar Square (Hanuman Dhoka)

Kathmandu Durbar Square is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Hanuman Dhoka is a religious and historic palace square that dates back to the 4th century AD. The Kathmandu Durbar Square is one of three Durbar Squares of Kathmandu Valley carried out by the Malla and Shaha historical regime. These are ancient public squares situated in the front part of the palace complex and were used for various ceremonies and events that included the crowning of the Nepalese king.

The Kathmandu Durbar Square is situated in the ancient part of the city known as the Basantapur area. Exploring this place is one of the worthy visits for travelers if you want to do walking tours since it is just a 20-minute foot walk from Thamel.
Once you visit Kathmandu, don’t miss the top attractions of Kathmandu Durbar Square with the following sites:
• Hanuman Dhoka Palace: Originally the royal palace of Malla Kings and later owned by the Shaha dynasty.
• Durbar Square Temples: Explore the collections of temples like Taleju Bhawani Temple, Jagannath Temple, and Kalbhairab (Mahakala).
• Kumari Chok: Look at the living goddess of Kathmandu, the Kumari and she is regarded as the manifestation of Taleju (clan goddess of Malla Kings) and the only living god in the world.
• Durbar Square Museums: There are many museums in Kathmandu Durbar Square. The valuable museums are the Kathmandu Museums and the Tribhuwan Museum, both housing traditional Nepali artifacts from various times and dynasties.

#07. Taleju Bhawani Temple

Taleju Temple is the main attraction among other sites in Kathmandu Durbar Square which is the personnel deity of Malla Kings and deserves its value and spot on the list of places to visit in Kathmandu. This is one of the significant religious sites dedicated to Goddess Taleju Bhwani. In addition, this temple belongs to ancient unique art and architecture, crafting gorgeous intricate carvings, awesome artworks, and excellent metalwork.

This temple is crafted in a pagoda style, organizing a three-tiered roof adorned with tall, golden pinnacles and statues. But, the demerits is that the non-Hindus are not allowed to enter the temple and it is only open a day a year on the occasion of Maha Nabami and sacrifices different animals and birds like chicken, duck, and buffaloes.

#08. Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)

Swayambhunath Stupa is another best place to observe the Kathmandu Valley from the hilltop and behold the sceneries of foothills greenery of Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park and silver shining mountains on the horizon. The stupa is also known as the monkey temple and it is the oldest Buddhist site in Nepal supposed origins around 2,000 years. This also includes UNESCO World Heritage sites, this stupa fascinates travelers to witness its religious importance and enjoy the ideal view of Kathmandu Valley and herds of monkeys roaming around the stupa complex.
#09. Mountain Flight to Everest Flight from Kathmandu – Most Epic Adventure Flights from Kathmandu
Everest Mountain flight is the most adventure flight in your lifetime experience to witness the majestic mountains, then the perfect idea to embark the marvelous trekking journey to Everest Base Camp. Additionally, if you have limited time to stay in Kathmandu then I recommend obtaining the scenic flights to Mountain Flights to Everest. These fabulous mountain flights daily depart from Kathmandu covering the tallest peaks of the Everest region with the closest view of the World’s Highest Mountain Mt. Everest standing at an altitude of 8848.86 meters. The flights is goes in the lower altitude than commercial flights so that, you can encounter a much better panoramas of the Himalayan Peaks.

#10. Narayanhiti Museum
Narayanhiti Museum will be a worthy visiting place for your sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley. The Shaha rulers had used this palace for their official work and residence until it was transformed into a museum following the dethrone of the monarch in 2008. In 2001 King Birendra’s whole family was assassinated but it is still in secret about murderers as nine members of the royal family were killed. Today, the place is converted into a museum covering the areas around five hectors. There are 52 rooms and attractive gardens with staterooms, the queen’s apartments, the royal bedrooms, guest rooms, VIP rooms, the meeting hall, and the throne room. All the rooms are named under the districts of Nepal have different valuable gems of royal family.

#11. Patan Durbar Square

Patan Durbar Square is a unique example of the Newari artic rafts of the medieval period. This is the most valued and attractive property of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is centered in the Lalitpur district near about a 15-minute drive from Thamel in Kathmandu, Nepal. This is somehow similar to the Kathmandu Durbar Square which is surrounded by wooden temples, magnificent shrines, and stone sculptures including intricate palaces representing the awesome architecture of the Newari arts of the Malla period.

Especially, the Krishna Temple built by only stones materials the best temple to explore and surroundings temples are very unique. All the handiwork from this square is outstanding and wood carvings on the beams, windows and doors carvings are amazing. Stone sculptures are the perfect example of Nepali art and architecture that will amuse your spirit. Similarly, Golden Temple (Hiranya Varna Mahabihar) is another attraction which you don’t have to miss as it is located just a short walk next to Side Street from the Durbar Square.

#12. Jagannath Temple

Jagannath temple is dedicated to Hinduism and if you want explore more Hindu Temples then this is also a prominent temple for your study. This temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath who is taken the form of Lord Bishnu. The outer part of the temple is crafted with some splendid wooden carvings of Hindu gods and goddesses, domestic animals, and mythical creatures.

#13. Bhaktapur Durbar Square
Bhaktapur is the city of devotees and is also known as Khopa or Bhadgaun. Durbar Square was built around the 14th to 15th century by the Malla Dynasty. The Bhaktapur Durbar Square is 12 kilometers far from Kathmandu and it will take around an hour to drive. The 55 windows palace is most famous site of this area which was built by King Bhupatindra Malla in 1702 AD to 1722 AD. There are various well-preserved medieval Newari buildings, ancient temples, shrines, and most attractive palaces which are the best example of Nepali arts that reflects the prosperous cultural heritage of the Newar community in Kathmandu Valley.
Attractions of the Bhaktapur Durbar Square
• The 55 – Window Place
• Golden Gate
• Nyatapol Temple, Vatsala Temple & Bhiairavnath Temple
• Peacock Windows

#14. Nyatapol Temple

This is the most visited place in Bhaktapur Durbar Square, this is a five-storied pagoda-style temple that is the most attractive and tallest temple in Nepal.

#15. Kumari Bahal

The Kumari Bahal is the most visited place in Kathmandu, also known as the Kumari Chowk. This is settled beyond the Kathmandu Durbar Square. This is the home of the Living Goddess of Kumari worshiped as the reincarnation of the goddess Durga who is called Kumari. Being a foreigner, this is a kind of peculiar tourist point in Kathmandu as they may feel a girl just locked in a room but, Hindus and Buddhist people worship her who is selected as a child for professing divine power. However, foreigners are not allowed to enter inside and they just get the opportunity to see her from the side of the courtyard and Kumari will come to the window to show her face to the visitors.

#16. Nagarkot
Nagarkot is the best alternative for epic sunrise views from the hilltop. This is hillside hiking place familiar for gorgeous sunrise and sunset views over the horizon of majestic mountains. If you want to behold the snowcapped mountains then Nagarkot Dhulikhel hiking is the nice choice to complete your target.
Day Trips & Multi-Day Tours to more Magnificent Spots to Explore from Kathmandu
The above mentioned 15 lists of attractions in Kathmandu are most recommended tourist places where most of the visitors in Kathmandu around the globe will do which are easily accessible and more convenient to visit from their accommodation. However, Kathmandu is the center for everything and also base on exploration Nepal and Himalayas where you can read about the possible mountain trekking sites with this post.

#17. Langtang National Park

Langtang National Park is a preserved area of the mountains covering 1,710 square kilometers. This is located in the northeast side of Kathmandu closest to the mountain regions of Kathmandu, taking around 5/6 hours to drive a vehicle, and the best place for trekking. Even, though this is not renowned like Khumbu (Everest Region), Langtang is a perfect destination for trekking which presents snowcapped towering mountains and a settlement of the famous Kyanjin Gompa, a Tibetan Buddhist monastery positioned at an altitude of 3,870 meters above sea level.

#18. Chitawan National park

The Chitwan National Park is home to thousands of wild flora and fauna. The best place to see the rhinoceros (one – horned rhinoceros), the place is located approximately 170 kilometers from Kathmandu by road trip. Besides famous rhinoceroses, the park is also famous for Royal Bengal tigers, Asian elephants, and sloth bears. Exploring Tharu traditional village and cultural performance is awesome.

Apart from this you can do the canopying in the Budi Rapti River is the fabulous experience of this tour. Sit in the Rapti beach and take the enjoyment of beers or some alcoholic drink with spice cuisines and observe the sunset view will amuse you mentally and physically. Booking the 3-day safari tour is the best option to obtain for the Chitwan tour from Kathmandu will provide you with more enjoyment and worth of your stay in Nepal. In this package you can get, transportation, all the activities in Chitawan, jungle guide, goods and accommodations in Chitawan.

#19. Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park

The Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park has decorated the Kathmandu Valley lies at the northern closest part of Kathmandu city. Visitors will arrive at this park in just within an hour. This park will award you the most convenient and accessible hiking routes in Kathmandu Valle. If you are keen to go hiking then Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park will be your best choice. The park is named after Shivapuri Peak which is the tallest viewpoint in this area. This is magnificent Mountain View point located at the altitude of 2,732 meters.

# 20. Everest Base Camp Trek
Everest Base Camp Trek is the famous trekking trail in the world. The region is ornamented by several tallest mountains in the world. This includes Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu surrounded by many trekking peaks like Mera Peak or Island Peak. This is the place where thousands of trekkers and climbers visit to complete their adventure passion obtaining the Everest Base Camp Trek, climbing different mountains, and doing the most challenging Three Pass Trek. To reach here, you need to take the breathtaking flights from Kathmandu to Lukla or sometimes the flights operated from the Ramechhap, airport to Tenzing Hillary Airport Lukla known for one of the world’s shortest runways. If you want to reject fly and do road trip then you can take the bus from Kathmandu to Jiri and start the trekking.

#21. Pokhara

Pokhara is the main tourist hub in Nepal surrounded by different mountains of Annapurna mountain series and Phewa Lake. It is 200 kilometers far from Kathmandu and will take 7-9 hours driving and 25 minutes by flight. Many travelers choose Pokhara after their trekking trips in the mountains since it usually has warm weather and great place for swimming, and boating in the refreshing Phewa Lake.

Pokhara offers amazing sceneries of lakes, forests, laid-back atmosphere and is the starting point to begin the Annapurna region trekking adventure for doing the Annapurna Base Camp Trek and Mardi Himal Trek. There are many adventure activities you can do in Pokhara such as boating at Phewa Lake, paragliding, ultra-light flight and bungee jumping.

Which Company to Choose for the Trip in Kathmandu

There are thousands of trekking and Tour Companies in Nepal, among them, I strongly recommend Himalayan Vista Trekking Pvt. Ltd for your successful, enjoyable, and safe trip to Nepal. This is a leading adventure company run by three brothers with well-educated and have specific knowledge about trekking, tours, and peak climbing in Nepal. They are the tourist experts and their company crew is well-trained and professional, one you use this company you will come back frequently to explore Nepal using this company for your further trips in Nepal.

Frequently Asked Questions about Visiting Kathmandu Valley Nepal

What is the best season to explore Kathmandu?

Kathmandu always welcomes visitors to explore its beauty and loyalty. However, during the monsoon there will be heavy rainfall around Nepal and is not recommend to visit any place of Nepal including Kathmandu. Most of the time it will rain and the road will be slippery and muddy so, I advise you to visit all the season apart from the monsoon.

Do I need a Visa to Travel to Nepal?

Yes, you need to obtain a visa from immigration to visit Nepal. Most of the country gets on arrival visa at the Tribhuvan International Airport besides some countries. At the moment you can get a different kind of visa with the payment of cash none other than credit cards and online payment.

What Attire should I wear to the religious sites of Kathmandu?

You can wear all kinds of dress while you are visiting religious places but it should be respectable to the public and shouldn’t be too short. Just dress normally and remove your shoes before entering the holy area like temples and monasteries as well as sacred places.

Is it safe to drink water from the tap?

No, you don’t drink water from a tap unless you are using a filter, filter tablet, laser light, or purifier.

Where is the nicest place to visit in Kathmandu for couples?

Couples enjoying or searching fun place can visit the Swoyambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple). From here you can vividly explore the magnificent views of Kathmandu Valley including Jungle hillside and majestic mountains.

More Sites to Explore in Nepal

This is details about Kathmandu Valley’s best places but there are numerous places to explore in Nepal. I guarantee other adventure sites will give you more enjoyment and complete your adventure passion in Nepal, following are the some examples of trekking trip tour packages for your reference which you can check for your coming destinations.