Why visit
Kathmandu is Nepal's valley capital, dense with temples, courtyards, stupas, trekking shops, and mountain-route logistics. It is the cultural and practical starting point for most Nepal trips.
How to use this result
Use it as a capital-city prompt
Kathmandu is useful when you want a city-level starting point in Nepal. Check whether the capital is the best arrival city, a practical transfer point, or mainly a geography and planning reference.
Check practical trip fit
Before planning around Kathmandu, compare airport access, local transport, time zone, neighborhood choices, weather, safety guidance, and whether another city in Nepal better matches the trip style.
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
Open in Google Maps
Click the map to open in Google Maps. Outline via svg-maps/world - CC BY 4.0
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
Traveler notes
- Kathmandu Valley has multiple UNESCO-listed monument zones
- Boudhanath and Swayambhunath are key stupa sites
- Thamel is the main trekking preparation district
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
Facts last reviewed June 2026 against GeoNames and national statistics sources. See the editorial policy for how destination data is maintained.
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.
When is the best time to visit Kathmandu?
Mar–May, Oct–Nov. Check current weather and local events before booking.
What airport serves Kathmandu?
Tribhuvan International (IATA: KTM).
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