Essential Travel Tips for Kathmandu

Practical travel advice for visiting Kathmandu, Nepal — best time to visit, how to get there, daily budgets, and insider tips.

Insider Tips

•Download offline maps as internet can be spotty in some areas
•Dress modestly when visiting religious sites (cover shoulders and knees)
•Be prepared for frequent power cuts - carry a power bank
•Bargain politely when shopping in markets
•Drink only bottled or filtered water to avoid getting sick
•Respect local customs and always ask permission before photographing people
•Keep small denomination bills for taxis and small purchases
•Air quality can be poor - consider wearing a mask if you have respiratory issues

Best Time to Visit

October to November & March to April (Spring & Autumn)

The best time to visit Kathmandu is during autumn (October-November) when the weather is clear with blue skies, perfect for mountain views and sightseeing. Spring (March-April) is also excellent with pleasant temperatures and blooming rhododendrons. Winter can be cold but clear, while the monsoon season (June-August) brings heavy rain.

How to Get There

Kathmandu is well-connected by air and road, serving as the main entry point to Nepal.

By Air

Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) is the only international airport in Nepal, with direct flights from major Asian cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Bangkok, Singapore, and Doha. The airport is located about 6 km from the city center, approximately 30-45 minutes drive.

By Road

Regular bus services connect Kathmandu with major cities in Nepal including Pokhara (6-7 hours), Chitwan (5-6 hours), and border towns with India. Tourist buses and private vehicles are also available.

Daily Budget Guide

Budget

$20-30/day (accommodation, food, local transport)

Mid-Range

$50-80/day (comfortable hotel, good restaurants, some tours)

Luxury

$150+/day (5-star hotels, fine dining, private tours)