Kathmandu

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Swayambhu Mahachaitya
No. 2 of Night Attractions in Nepal

Swayambhu Mahachaitya

4.8
4.6/5
311 reviews
Swayambhuna Temple is located on a hill about 2 kilometers west of Kathmandu city. It has a history of more than 2,500 years. It is an ancient Buddhist temple in Nepal and is listed as a world cultural heritage. Because there are many monkeys here, it is also called "Monkey Temple". 1. The golden pagoda in the center goes up the stairs to the top of the Monkey Temple. There are monkeys scurrying around all the time. Don't take food in your hands, otherwise, the monkeys will snatch it away. When you come to the Monkey Temple, you will see the golden pagoda in the center. Although it is smaller than the Buddha Pagoda with a similar shape, it is very imposing because it stands on the top of the mountain. There are a pair of big eyes on each of the four sides of the stupa, as if staring at all things in the world. There is a big question mark at the position of the nose. It is actually the Nepalese number "one", which symbolizes harmony and unity; above the Buddha's eyes is a spiral ring. At the top of the canopy is a huge gemstone, which means Nirvana. The base of the tower is a huge white hemisphere, and there are many small stone pagodas around it. 2. Overlooking the bottom of the mountain and feeling the peace In addition to the stupa, there are some other temple buildings on the top of the mountain, and many devout believers can be seen. After admiring the building, walk to the observation deck next to it, overlooking the densely packed houses under the mountain, which are not high but colorful. Many people like to come here at dusk, it will have a different flavor. Many tourists will sit in a daze on the steps under the pagoda or on the chairs by the small square, feeling the peaceful atmosphere here. From time to time, pigeons flew over and landed on the square or stayed on the pagoda. It was peaceful. Of course, there are many monkeys here, and they are not afraid of people at all. You can take pictures of them casually, but you need to pay attention to your belongings, and please don't provoke them. There is also a panoramic view of Kathmandu and the Himalayas when the weather is fine, especially at sunset.Kathmandu · 3.3km from downtown
Pashupatinath Temple
No. 8 of Best Things to Do in Nepal

Pashupatinath Temple

4.5
4.5/5
190 reviews
Pashupatinath Temple is located on the west bank of the Bagmati River, about 5 kilometers east of the Tamil District, along the ring road. This tower-style temple was built in 1696. It is the largest Hindu temple in Nepal and one of the four major temples dedicated to Lord Shiva in South Asia, and has been included in the World Heritage List. 1. Overlooking the Pashupatinath Temple Since only Hindus can enter the temple compound, ordinary tourists can only look outside the west gate, and can see the mount of Shiva, a huge bull Nandi statue. It is said that a black four-headed Pashupati statue is enshrined in the temple. Climb to the top along the steps on the west side of the temple, and you can admire the gilded temple roof from a commanding height. The river bank in the northeast of the temple is where Hindu ascetic monks live. Cross the footbridge to the east bank of the river opposite to the temple. There is a row of Shiva Linga towers. If you continue to walk up the steps, there is a viewing platform, which can be separated by The river overlooks the entire Pashupatinath Temple. 2. Watch the cremation ceremony On the river bank in the south of Pashupatinath Temple, there is AryaGhat, the largest crematorium in Nepal. The cremation ceremony of ordinary Nepalese is carried out here almost every day, so Pashupatinath Temple is also called "Burning Temple" by many people. The bodies of the deceased were wrapped and arranged by the river, and cremated on the pyre. The whole process was orderly, very quiet, and there was no mourning. The ashes were scattered into the river and flowed into the Ganges with the river. Early morning and early evening are usually the time to watch the cremation ceremony, but after all, this is a private time for loved ones to mourn and grieve, and it is recommended not to crowd into the cremation crowd or take pictures during the viewing.Kathmandu · 2.6km from downtown

Experiences you can't miss in Kathmandu

Featured Culture & history in Kathmandu

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Kathmandu: Top 4 UNESCO Heritage Tour with Lunch- with English Guide
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4.9/5
· 8 reviews· 52 booked
Duration: 5.5 hrs
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Kathmandu: Full day 7 UNESCO World Heritage sites tour with Lunch- Private/ Group
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4.8/5
· 8 reviews
Duration: 6 hrs
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Knife (Khukuri) Making Workshop- Forge of the Gurkhas
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4.9/5
· 52 reviews
Duration: 4 hrs
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Kathmandu: To Pokhara Day Bus | Premium Sofa Seater
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Duration: 5–7 hrs
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Kathmandu: Discover 3 Royal Durbar Squares in One Day
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5.0/5
· 1 review
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Kathmandu Highlights Audio Tour: Heart of the Valley
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Pokhara  Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Annapurna & Pokhara Valley
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Langtang Valley Trek Nepal | Scenic 7-Day Trek to Kyanjin Gompa
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Duration: 12 hrs
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Featured Food & drink in Kathmandu

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Half day cooking class in Thamel kathmandu
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4.9/5
· 421 reviews
Duration: 150 mins
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81 consecutive positive reviews
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Nepali Cooking Class and Momo Making Led by Local Chefs
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5.0/5
· 1 review
Duration: 3–4 hrs
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Kathmandu: Traditional Nepali Dinner & Cultural Show in Thamel
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2.0/5
· 1 review
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Kathmandu: Cook Nepali Dishes & Momos with Local Chefs & Pickup
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4.9/5
· 18 reviews
Duration: 210 mins
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Nepali Authentic Dinner Experience with Cultural Show.
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Nepali Rice Beer (Chhyang) Making & Tasting Experience
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Duration: 3 hrs
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Thamel: Local Food Tour
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Walking Food & Drink Tour in Kathmandu (Nepali Local Bites)
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Featured Day tours in Kathmandu

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Nagarkot Sunrise Trip & Day Hike with Lunch from Kathmandu
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4.8/5
· 96 reviews· 57 booked
Duration: 7–8 hrs
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Kathmandu- Evening Fire Ritual (Sandhya Arati) at Pashupatinath Temple
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4.5/5
· 4 reviews
Duration: 1 hr
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Chandragiri Cable Car and Monkey Temple- Private/ Group Tour Option
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5.0/5
· 2 reviews
Duration: 3.4 hrs
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Everest Mountain Flight tour From Kathmandu - Daily Departures
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5.0/5
· 14 reviews
Duration: 55–60 mins
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Kathmandu: Nagarkot Sunrise and Day Hike with Breakfast
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Chandragiri Hills Cable Car with Pick up and drop off - Fixed Departure Everyday
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What travellers say about Kathmandu

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Hossain Hoq Prohor5 March 2026
5.0
Kathmandu Durbar Square is a fascinating place where history, culture, and architecture come together in the heart of Kathmandu. Walking through the square feels like stepping back in time, surrounded by ancient temples, royal palaces, and beautifully carved wooden structures. The atmosphere is lively with locals, visitors, and traditional vendors, making it a vibrant cultural hub. Highlights like the Kumari Ghar and Hanuman Dhoka Palace showcase Nepal’s rich heritage and craftsmanship. Despite the damage from the 2015 earthquake, restoration work continues, preserving its timeless beauty. Visiting during sunset adds a magical touch, as the golden light reflects off the historic buildings, creating a truly unforgettable experience.

Kathmandu Durbar Square

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Tania Akter (Bangladesh)5 May 2026
5.0
At the heart of Thamel, every step feels alive with color, culture, and energy. This vibrant neighborhood in Kathmandu is a paradise for travelers—packed with cozy cafés, lively bars, and endless souvenir shops. From handmade crafts to trekking gear, there’s something for everyone. The narrow streets buzz with music, laughter, and the scent of delicious Nepali food. Whether you're planning a Himalayan adventure or just soaking in the atmosphere, Thamel offers an unforgettable blend of chaos and charm that captures the true spirit of Nepal.

Thamel

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pekingwang4 March 2020
5.0
Nagarkot near Kathmandu, Nepal is one of the best places to view snow-capped mountains. Find a better hotel, watch the snow-capped mountains in the distance while tasting the hotel’s food. Accompanied by alpine delicacies, do you feel like your life has reached its peak?

Nagarkot

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jns0223 February 2026
5.0
On my first day at Kathmandu, Swayambhu Mahachaitya was my first stop. Unlike other tourist spots, I didn't have to purchase tickets for this. (Either that or i missed the ticketing booth😭)Good place to immerse in. Cafes around, with souvenir shops and also amazing view of the city.

Swayambhu Mahachaitya

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Gerlinda1 May 2023
4.0
Eerie but interesting place. Full of incense but worth the experience. Enjoyable walk!

Buddha Stupa

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Shahin Alom - RU1 October 2025
5.0
🛕 Pashupatinath Temple – Spiritual Heart of KathmanduPashupatinath Temple is one of Nepal’s most sacred Hindu sites, nestled along the banks of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this UNESCO World Heritage site enchants visitors with its intricate pagoda-style architecture, gilded roofs, and beautifully carved wooden struts. The temple is a vibrant center of spirituality, especially during festivals like Maha Shivaratri, when thousands of devotees gather in devotion. The surrounding ghats, sacred rituals, and the serene river setting create a deeply immersive cultural experience. Pashupatinath Temple is not only a religious landmark but also a place where tradition, devotion, and heritage converge beautifully.

Pashupatinath Temple

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Mr & Mrs Saha27 April 2023
5.0
This is the one of the best historical places I ever visited. The place is so nice & information of the every places is so detailed.

Patan Darbar Square

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杨小钻风8 February 2025
5.0
Walking into Bhaktapur Durbar Square is like entering a long scroll of Nepal's history. Located in the Kathmandu Valley, it is a culmination of medieval Nepalese art and architecture, a UNESCO-certified world cultural heritage, and can be called an "open-air museum". In the square, red brick ancient buildings are closely arranged, and wood carvings and stone carvings can be seen everywhere. The patterns on the window lattices and columns are exquisite and complex, and the images of people, animals, gods, etc. are lifelike, quietly telling stories of the past. The Nyatapola Temple is the symbol of the square. This five-story pagoda reaches the sky, and statues of mythical beasts and strong men stand majestically beside nearly a thousand steps. This is also a portrayal of Nepalese life. Women draw water from the ancient well, children laugh on the stone road, and the elderly rest and chat on the steps. The handicraft shops on the street are full of thangkas, wood carvings, and pottery, which makes people can't help but choose. The 2015 earthquake hit the square hard, and many buildings were seriously damaged. Although some have been repaired, the ruins are still telling the story of the disaster. This also makes people cherish these historical sites more and more, and reminds people of the importance of protecting cultural heritage. Bhaktapur Durbar Square is a visual enjoyment, spiritual baptism, and a dialogue with history. It is worth every tourist to slow down and savor it carefully.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

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Frequently asked questions

What are the must-do things in Kathmandu?

Don't miss these attractions in Kathmandu: Kathmandu Durbar Square, Thamel, and Nagarkot. If you like Culture & history, try Kathmandu: Top 4 UNESCO Heritage Tour with Lunch- with English Guide. If you enjoy Food & drink, try Half day cooking class in Thamel kathmandu.

You can give Half day cooking class in Thamel kathmandu and Nepali Cooking Class and Momo Making Led by Local Chefs a try. Before you go, please check their opening hours and menus online. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

When choosing a tour, start with how much time you have and the kind of experience you're looking for. Trending options right now include Nagarkot Sunrise Trip & Day Hike with Lunch from Kathmandu, Kathmandu- Evening Fire Ritual (Sandhya Arati) at Pashupatinath Temple, and Chandragiri Cable Car and Monkey Temple- Private/ Group Tour Option. Check the real-time availability and itinerary before you book.

As of 1 November 2026, the reference price for day tours and activities in Kathmandu is around SGD 44.73 – SGD 435.08. Rates vary by duration, group size, transport, tickets, meals, and any special admission requirements. Before you book, please confirm the billing currency and whether the price is quoted per person or per group.

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