Why visit
Kathmandu is the capital of Nepal. A practical starting point for museums, food, and onward routes into the country.
Kathmandu at a glance
City population
975k
Metro: 2.9 million
Elevation
1,400 m
4,593 ft
Time zone
UTC+5:45
Asia/Kathmandu
Airport
KTM
Tribhuvan International
Founded
900 CE
Getting around
Buses + micro-buses + cycle rickshaws
Signature dish
Momo, dal bhat, thukpa, newari khaja, sel roti
Neighborhoods for travelers
Thamel (backpacker)Durbar SquarePatanBhaktapurBoudhanath
Nepal at a glance
Country center
28.0°, 84.0°
Coast
Landlocked
Country area
147,181 km²
56,827 mi²
Country population
30.9 million
210/km²
Subregion
Southern Asia
Currency
Nepalese rupee (₨)
NPR
Dial
+977
Language
Nepali
Demonym
Nepalese
Internet
.np
UN
Member state
ISO code
NP / NPL
Where in the world
28.0° · 84.0°
Nepal
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Did you know
- Kathmandu Valley has 7 UNESCO World Heritage sites within a 20 km radius.
- Pashupatinath Temple is one of Hinduism's most sacred shrines, with open cremations on the Bagmati.
- The city sits at 1,400 m altitude. The Himalayas are visible on clear days from many rooftops.
- Nepal's flag is the only national flag that is not rectangular: it is two triangular pennants stacked.
- Eight of the world's ten highest mountains are in Nepal, including Everest.
Bordering Nepal
Plan checks
- Choose a neighborhood first: many capitals have tourist centers that are not the best places to stay.
- Public transport passes usually beat taxis and rideshares for multi-day visits.
Explore more
Frequently asked about Kathmandu
What currency is used in Kathmandu?
Kathmandu uses the Nepalese rupee (₨), ISO code NPR.
What languages are spoken in Nepal?
The primary language is Nepali.
What is the international calling code for Nepal?
The calling code is +977.
What airport serves Kathmandu?
Tribhuvan International (IATA: KTM).
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