Kathmandu-4-day-itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Thamel

Places to Visit:

  • Boudhanath Stupa: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest Buddhist shrines in the world. [9am-6pm]
  • Pashupatinath Temple: A sacred Hindu temple and a popular tourist destination. [8am-5pm]

Activities:

  • Wander through the vibrant streets of Thamel, exploring local shops, cafes, and restaurants.
  • Visit the nearby Bhaktapur Durbar Square (optional), but be aware that it requires a separate ticket.

Where to Eat:

  • Thamel House Restaurant: Try their famous Nepali thali or international cuisine. [12pm-11pm]
  • The Coffee Shop: Relax with a cup of coffee and some delicious baked goods. [8am-9pm]

Where to Stay:

  • Hotel Malla: A comfortable hotel in the heart of Thamel, with clean rooms and friendly staff.
  • Kantipur Temple House: Another great option for travelers, offering simple but cozy accommodations.

Things to Know:

  • Language: Nepali is the official language, but English is widely spoken. You may still find some locals who don’t speak English, so it’s always a good idea to learn some basic phrases like “Namaste” (hello) and “Dhanyabaad” (thank you).
  • Currency: The Nepalese Rupee (NPR) is the local currency, but US dollars are widely accepted. Credit cards are also becoming more common.

Transportation:

  • Walking: Thamel is a pedestrian-friendly area, making it easy to explore on foot.
  • Rickshaw: A fun and affordable way to get around town, just be sure to agree on a price before you start your journey.
  • Taxi: If you’re traveling further afield, taxis are readily available.

Tips:

  • Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting temples or taking part in cultural activities.
  • Bargain at markets: Haggling is a way of life in Nepal. Don’t be afraid to negotiate prices for souvenirs or other goods.
  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially during hot weather.

Day 2: Discovering Kathmandu

Places to Visit:

  • Swayambhunath Temple: A historic Buddhist temple complex with stunning views of the city. [9am-6pm]
  • Dhurbar Square: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and former royal palace, featuring beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.

Activities:

  • Explore the nearby streets of Asan, known for its vibrant markets and delicious street food.
  • Visit the National Museum (optional), which showcases Nepal’s rich cultural heritage.

Where to Eat:

  • The Tibetan Restaurant: Enjoy authentic Tibetan cuisine in a cozy atmosphere. [12pm-10pm]
  • Ambrosia Restaurant: Treat yourself to upscale dining with a focus on Nepali and international flavors. [12pm-11pm]

Where to Stay:

  • Hotel Shangri-La: A luxurious hotel in the heart of Kathmandu, offering comfortable rooms and top-notch amenities.
  • Yak & Yeti Hotel: Another great option for travelers, featuring elegant accommodations and a relaxing atmosphere.

Things to Know:

  • Health and Safety: Kathmandu can be overwhelming at times. Be mindful of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.
  • Weather: Nepal’s climate varies greatly depending on the season. Pack accordingly and stay informed about weather conditions.

Day 3: Day Trip to Bhaktapur

Places to Visit:

  • Bhaktapur Durbar Square: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and former royal palace, featuring stunning architecture and intricate carvings.
  • Changu Narayan Temple: A historic temple dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu.

Activities:

  • Explore the charming streets of Bhaktapur, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture.
  • Visit the nearby village of Nagarkot (optional), which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

Where to Eat:

  • The Chautari Restaurant: Enjoy traditional Nepali cuisine in a cozy atmosphere. [12pm-9pm]
  • The Everest Kitchen: Treat yourself to authentic Tibetan and Chinese dishes. [11am-10pm]

Transportation:

  • Taxi or Rickshaw: Hire a taxi or rickshaw to take you from Kathmandu to Bhaktapur.

Day 4: Relaxation Day

Activities:

  • Take a leisurely walk along the Bagmati River, enjoying the scenery and local life.
  • Visit the nearby Kirtipur (optional), which features stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside.

Where to Eat:

  • The View Restaurant: Enjoy delicious international cuisine with a focus on Nepali flavors. [12pm-11pm]
  • Thamel House Restaurant: Treat yourself to authentic Tibetan and Chinese dishes. [12pm-11pm]

Transportation:

  • Walking or Rickshaw: Explore the city on foot or by rickshaw, enjoying the sights and sounds of Kathmandu.

Other Tips and Reminders:

  • Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting temples or taking part in cultural activities.
  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially during hot weather.
  • Be mindful of your surroundings: Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings at all times.

I hope you enjoy your time exploring Kathmandu!