Short Essay: Kathmandu
Writing a short essay about Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, offers a wonderful opportunity to explore its rich cultural heritage, unique architecture, and vibrant street life. This guide will provide you with a structured approach to writing an engaging and informative essay about Kathmandu.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Start your essay with an intriguing hook that captures the essence of Kathmandu. You could begin with a vivid description of walking through the bustling streets of Thamel or the spiritual ambiance of the Swayambhunath Stupa at sunrise. Introduce Kathmandu as not just a city, but the heart of Nepal, reflecting centuries of history, a melting pot of cultures, and an architectural wonderland. Provide a thesis statement that briefly outlines the aspects you will cover, such as its history, cultural significance, and major attractions.
Historical Context
Dedicate a paragraph to the rich history of Kathmandu. Originating as a trade route between India and Tibet, Kathmandu has a storied past that dates back to at least the 12th century. Mention the Malla dynasty and their contributions to the city’s development, including the construction of many of the temples and palaces that can still be seen today. Highlight the historical events that shaped the city, such as the 2015 earthquake, and discuss how it has influenced modern Kathmandu.
Cultural Tapestry
In the next section, delve into the cultural aspects of Kathmandu. Describe the harmonious blend of Hinduism and Buddhism, which is reflected in the daily lives of the people and the numerous festivals celebrated throughout the year, such as Dashain and Tihar. Talk about the traditional crafts, such as Thangka painting and wood carving, which are still practiced in the city. Mention the local cuisine, offering readers a taste of dishes like momo (dumplings) and dal bhat (rice and lentils).
Architectural and Natural Attractions
Kathmandu is renowned for its architecture and scenic landscapes. Discuss the iconic Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its palaces and temples that showcase the craftsmanship of Newar architects. Mention the Swayambhunath and Boudhanath stupas, important religious sites for Buddhists. Don’t forget to include the natural beauty surrounding Kathmandu, such as the Nagarjun Forest Reserve and the panoramic views of the Himalayas from nearby viewpoints like Nagarkot.
Contemporary Issues and Conclusion
Address some contemporary issues facing Kathmandu today, such as urbanization, pollution, and the challenges of preserving cultural heritage in the face of modernization. This will provide a more balanced view of the city.
Conclude your essay by summarizing the points discussed and reaffirm your thesis. End with a reflective thought or a call to action, perhaps inviting readers to experience the unique charm of Kathmandu themselves or to participate in preservation efforts.
Kathmandu Essay Example #1
Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis located in the central part of the country. It is a city that is steeped in rich cultural and historical heritage, and is known for its ancient temples, palaces, and traditional architecture. Kathmandu is also a popular hub for tourism, offering a gateway to the majestic Himalayan region and opportunities for trekking, mountaineering, and exploring the natural beauty of Nepal. In this essay, we will explore the various facets of Kathmandu, from its cultural and historical landmarks to its modern-day attractions and tourism industry.
Kathmandu is a city that is deeply rooted in Nepal’s rich cultural heritage. The city boasts an impressive array of ancient temples, palaces, and shrines that are testament to its long and illustrious history. One of the most iconic landmarks of Kathmandu is the Pashupatinath Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is revered as one of the most sacred Hindu shrines in the world. The temple is located on the banks of the Bagmati River and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Another popular temple in Kathmandu is the Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, which is a Buddhist shrine that dates back to the 5th century. Other notable landmarks in Kathmandu include the Durbar Squares, which are ancient palaces that served as the seat of power for the Nepalese monarchy. These palaces are renowned for their stunning architecture and intricate carvings, and are a must-visit for anyone interested in Nepal’s cultural heritage.
Kathmandu is also a hub for tourism, offering a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors. One of the most popular tourist activities in Kathmandu is trekking in the Himalayan region. The city serves as a gateway to the Himalayas, and many treks begin from here. The most popular trek in Nepal is the Everest Base Camp Trek, which takes trekkers through the stunning Khumbu Valley and offers spectacular views of Mount Everest. Other popular treks in the region include the Annapurna Circuit and the Langtang Trek. In addition to trekking, Kathmandu also offers opportunities for mountaineering, rock climbing, and white-water rafting. For those interested in history and culture, the city has a number of museums, art galleries, and cultural centers where visitors can learn about Nepal’s diverse cultural heritage.
Kathmandu is a city that is constantly evolving, with new developments and modern-day attractions being added to its landscape. One of the most notable modern-day attractions in the city is the Garden of Dreams, a neo-classical garden that was built in the early 20th century. The garden is a peaceful oasis in the midst of the bustling city, and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Another popular modern-day attraction in Kathmandu is the Thamel neighborhood, a vibrant area that is home to a number of restaurants, bars, and shops. Thamel is a popular spot for backpackers and travelers, and is a great place to meet fellow travelers and explore the city’s nightlife. Finally, Kathmandu is also known for its festivals and celebrations, which are an integral part of Nepalese culture. The most popular festival in Kathmandu is the Dashain festival, which celebrates the victory of good over evil and is marked by feasting, dancing, and the exchange of gifts.
In conclusion, Kathmandu is a city that offers a unique blend of ancient cultural heritage and modern-day attractions. Its temples, palaces, and shrines are a testament to its rich history, while its thriving tourism industry offers opportunities for adventure and exploration. Whether you’re interested in trekking in the Himalayas, learning about Nepal’s cultural heritage, or simply exploring the city’s modern-day attractions, Kathmandu is a city that has something for everyone.
Kathmandu Essay Example #2
Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is a fascinating destination that attracts visitors from across the globe. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning temples, and palaces that have stood the test of time. Besides being a cultural hub, Kathmandu is also a popular destination for adventure tourism, with the Himalayas located just a short distance away. In this essay, we will explore the various aspects of Kathmandu that make it a must-visit destination.
Kathmandu is a vibrant city situated in the central part of Nepal. The city is dotted with ancient temples, historic palaces, and bustling markets that give visitors a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage. The most famous landmark in Kathmandu is the Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, which is located on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the city. Other famous temples in Kathmandu include the Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and the Kathmandu Durbar Square. These temples are not only religious sites but also offer a glimpse into the city’s rich history and architecture.
Kathmandu is also a hub for trekking and adventure tourism. The city is located near the foothills of the Himalayas and offers a range of trekking options, from short hikes to multi-day treks that take visitors through scenic mountain trails. The most popular trekking routes near Kathmandu include the Langtang Valley Trek, Helambu Trek, and the Everest Base Camp Trek. Besides trekking, visitors can also indulge in other adventure activities like mountain biking, paragliding, and rafting.
Kathmandu is a city that offers something for everyone. Whether you are a history buff, an adventure seeker, or a foodie, the city has it all. The city is known for its delicious food, which includes momos, dal bhat, and Newari cuisine. The bustling streets of Thamel and Asan offer a range of shopping options, from traditional handicrafts to modern clothing. Visitors can also explore the city’s museums and art galleries, which showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage.
In conclusion, Kathmandu is a city that offers visitors a unique cultural experience combined with adventure tourism. The city’s rich history, stunning temples, and palaces make it a must-visit destination for those interested in history and architecture. For adventure seekers, the city’s proximity to the Himalayas offers a range of trekking and adventure options. The city’s vibrant street life, delicious food, and shopping options make it a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
Kathmandu Essay Example #3
Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is a cultural hub located in the central part of the country. With its rich cultural heritage, bustling streets, and growing tourism industry, it is a city that has a lot to offer. In this essay, we will delve into the different aspects of Kathmandu that make it a unique and fascinating city.
Kathmandu is a city rich in cultural heritage, with many temples and historic sites. One of the most famous of these is Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple. This temple is located on a hilltop and is surrounded by beautiful views of the city. The temple is home to many monkeys, which are considered sacred by the locals. Another significant historic site in Kathmandu is the Pashupatinath Temple, which is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus. The temple is located on the banks of the Bagmati River and is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.
Kathmandu is also a bustling city that offers a range of accommodations, restaurants, and shopping opportunities. The city has a growing tourism industry, and there are many different types of accommodations available to suit all budgets. From budget hostels to luxury hotels, there is something for everyone. In terms of food, Kathmandu is known for its delicious Nepali cuisine. There are many restaurants that serve traditional Nepali dishes such as momos, dal bhat, and chow mein. The city is also home to many markets and shopping areas where visitors can purchase traditional Nepali handicrafts, souvenirs, and clothing.
In addition to its cultural heritage and bustling city life, Kathmandu also has many natural attractions. The city is surrounded by beautiful mountains, and there are many hiking trails and trekking opportunities nearby. One of the most popular trekking routes is the Everest Base Camp Trek, which takes visitors through the stunning Khumbu Valley. Another popular natural attraction in the area is the Chitwan National Park, which is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, rhinoceros, and elephants.
Kathmandu is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you are interested in exploring its rich cultural heritage, the bustling city life, or the stunning natural beauty that surrounds it, there is always something to do and see in Kathmandu. It is a city that is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.
Final Writing Tips
- Use Descriptive Language: Make your essay vivid and engaging by using descriptive language that helps the reader visualize the scenes and experiences you are describing.
- Stay Organized: Keep your essay well-organized with clear transitions between paragraphs to maintain a smooth flow of ideas.
- Cite Sources: If you include historical facts or quotes, make sure to cite your sources to add credibility to your essay.
- Revise and Edit: Always take time to revise and proofread your essay to ensure clarity and correctness in grammar and spelling.
About Mr. Greg
Mr. Greg is an English teacher from Edinburgh, Scotland, currently based in Hong Kong. He has over 5 years teaching experience and recently completed his PGCE at the University of Essex Online. In 2013, he graduated from Edinburgh Napier University with a BEng(Hons) in Computing, with a focus on social media.
Mr. Greg’s English Cloud was created in 2020 during the pandemic, aiming to provide students and parents with resources to help facilitate their learning at home.
In his spare time, he likes to compete in powerlifitng events and the odd strongman event!
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Best places to visit in Kathmandu, Nepal
Table of Contents
Guide to the best places to visit in Kathmandu, Nepal
KATHMANDU IS THE CAPITAL CITY of Nepal, and the city with the only international airport, too. Kathmandu is in a valley, surrounded by mountains, with the soaring white peaks of the Himalayan range in the distance. While Nepal is known for adventure travel, mountaineering, and trekking, Kathmandu is a historic and cultural city in its own right, with many fascinating neighbourhoods and tourist attractions. You don’t have to climb Mount Everest to enjoy a trip to Kathmandu and Nepal! In this Guide to the best places to visit in Kathmandu, I hope to share some of the things I truly love about this city.
I’ve been to Kathmandu four times, and it was the fourth visit that completely won me over. After seeing so many different places to visit in Kathmandu, the city stole my heart, as did Nepal. Nepal is one of my favourite countries for several reasons that include the warm and open people, the interesting history and culture, the harmonious mix of Hinduism and Buddhism, and of course the incredible natural beauty. As home to many of the world’s highest mountains, including number one, Mount Everest — which is known in Nepal as Sagarmatha and in Tibetan as Chomolungma — Nepal has magnificent vistas and large regions of wilderness that are largely untouched.
On my fourth visit to Kathmandu, I started to uncover a different side of Nepal and had the chance to experience wellness and spirituality. At Avata wellness centre , in the heart of the city, I found a serene and peaceful garden surrounded by a health food cafe, a spacious and sunny Yogashala, and a luxurious spa. I would consider Avata one of the best places to visit in Kathmandu.
This inspiring visit to Avata began to open up the spiritual side of Nepal for me, and I hope to continue to explore it. The Himalayan mountain range that runs through Nepal gives the country a reputation for being mystical, rugged, and remote. The Himalaya is the birthplace of Yoga, the home of Shiva, the destination of one of the holiest of all pilgrimages — Mount Kailash — and the location of mythical Shangri-la, a utopia among the peaks. Many stories of bravery, courage, and hardship spring from here, both known and untold. While many are drawn by the magnetism of Mount Everest, there is much, much more to explore in Nepal. Even in Kathmandu itself, there are many spiritual places to visit.
In this post I asked some of the my friends — travellers, bloggers, and photographers — to tell me their favourite places to visit in Kathmandu. My favourite neighbourhoods are Boudhanath, Bhaktapur, and Patan. And I also enjoy visiting the centre of Kathmandu — Durbar Square, Freak Street, and Thamel. On a day-long walking tour I did with Kalpana of Royal Mountain Travel , we covered many of these places.
My company India for Beginners will be working with Royal Mountain Travel to create a unique Nepal for Beginners tour that focuses on wellness, spirituality, culture, soft adventure and nature / wildlife tourism — with a Community Homestay visit to experience authentic local culture. Coming soon!
More reading about Nepal on Breathedreamgo
- Beginner’s guide to trekking in Nepal
- Tips for first time travellers to Nepal
Kathmandu photo essay by Andrew Adams
I visited Kathmandu in 2012 to photograph a Hindu wedding and fell in love with the culture and the warm welcoming Nepalese people. I was also amazed at the historical significance and architectural beauty: stunning, ornate temples made of carved wood, and gleaming white Buddhist Stupas, and centuries old buildings. Will definitely visit again.
The photos in this series covers many of the best places to visit in Kathmandu including Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa, Kathmandu Durbar Square, and a traditional Nepalese wedding in Kathmandu.
Andrew Adams is a Canadian photographer with a focus on South Asian culture, portraits, and travel. For more of Andrew’s photography work visit his website .
Best places to visit in Kathmandu Valley
The Kathmandu Valley is the cultural centre of Nepal. UNESCO has inscribed seven Monument Zones as part of the Kathmandu Valley World Heritage designation.
From the UNESCO website: “These monument zones are the Durbar squares or urban centres with their palaces, temples and public spaces of the three cities of Kathmandu (Hanuman Dhoka), Patan, and Bhaktapur, and the religious ensembles of Swayambhu, Boudhanath, Pashupati, and Changu Narayan. The religious ensemble of Swayambhu includes the oldest Buddhist monument (a stupa) in the Valley; that of Boudhanath includes the largest stupa in Nepal; Pashupati has an extensive Hindu temple precinct, and Changu Narayan comprises traditional Newari settlement, and a Hindu temple complex with one of the earliest inscriptions in the Valley from the fifth century AD.”
I’ve been to most of these as they are within a relatively small region, and they are amazing to experience. I particularly love the Durbar Squares in central Kathmandu (properly known as Hanuman Dhoka, after the royal palace), Patan, and Bhaktapur.
The Durbar squares of Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur are living history, the site of priceless monuments, gilded with antiquity and reverence – and yet they are pulsing with life, just as relevant today as when they were built. The temples are open and in daily use, and the squares throng with tourists, pilgrims, and locals. The squares especially come alive during celebrations, festivals, and rituals when people pour in to celebrate centuries old traditions.
There is an entrance fee for each of these monument sites, which is much higher for foreigners than for locals or citizens of SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) countries.
In November 2021, I paid:
- 1,500 Nepali rupees to enter Bhaktapur
- 1,000 Nepali rupees for Hanuman Dhoka Durbar Square
- 400 Nepali rupees for Boudhanath Stupa
Kathamandu (Hanuman Dhoka) Durbar Square
In the heart of Kathmandu is a complex of palaces, monuments, shrines, and temples, both Hindu and Buddhist, that make up the area known as Kathmandu Durbar Square. It’s also known as Hanuman Dhoka Durbar Square after a Hanuman statue that adorns one of the palaces — and it is most definitely one of the best places to visit in Kathmandu — in fact, it cannot be missed.
Once a royal residence, this is the cultural centre of the city, and it’s a fascinating area to wander, a living museum of antiquities, many built between the 12th and 18th centuries – but the origins of the square go back much, much further in time.
Until the early 20th century, Durbar Square was the home of Nepal’s royal family, and the place where coronations were held. The Royal Palace was largely constructed in the 17th century, but has been renovated many times.
Within Durbar Square, there are several inner squares, and many different chowks, courtyards, and temple compounds as well – it is an area rich in priceless antiquities. Many important festivals are held here, and people stream in from all over the city and the country to celebrate in Kathmandu Durbar Square.
Wear comfortable shoes, bring a bottle of water, and spend the day wandering in Kathmandu Durbar Square. There’s so much to see! When you get hungry, find the cafes that line one side of the open square near the Site Office, at the start of Freak Street. From a rooftop cafe or coffee house, you can get a great view of the area.
Bhaktapur was the capital of Nepal until the 15th century, and it remains an important cultural centre and a living museum of Newari culture. Known in Newari as Khwopa, Bhaktapur is an area of about seven square kilometres, about 15 kilometres outside of Kathmandu.
Bhaktapur is architecturally stunning, with beautiful pagoda-style temples, Buddhist stupas, and palaces around every corner. It really has to be seen to be believed! And it is just as rich in intangible history as it is in buildings, gates, monuments, and houses. Bhaktapur is alive with locals, pilgrims, and tourists and the site of many traditional festivals.
Within the area of the city, there are four important squares: Durbar Square, Taumadhi Square, Pottery Square, and Dattatraya Square. Each is fascinating in its own way. Dattatreya Square is the oldest part of the city, and features the oldest temple. Both Durbar Square and Taumadhi Square are spectacular to behold.
In Durbar Square you will find stone sculpture masterpieces, the Golden Gate and and 55 Windows Palace, replicas of Char Dham temples, erotic wood carvings, and the National Art Galllery. In Taumadhi Square there are several multi-roofed pagoda-style temples, stone sculptures, and a water tank / well with carved spouts.
Bhaktapur is known for pottery, handicrafts, black caps, black sarees with red borders and Juju Dhau , a thick, sweet yoghurt that is not to be missed! You can easily make a day of exploring this amazing area, where Hinduism and Buddhism harmoniously blend, and the past is alive in well-maintained buildings and ongoing traditions.
Or, you can stay in a local guest house in Bhaktapur and immerse totally in the evocative atmosphere of this ancient city.
Patan Durbar Square by Ami Bhat
It might be the smallest of the three Durbar Squares (erstwhile kingdoms of Nepal) but Patan Durbar Square is the most artistic of them all. Every structure, intact or in ruins, is a testament to the stunning Newari craftsmanship. The UNESCO World Heritage site has lots of ancient temples, the royal residence of Malla kings, and a well-curated museum that offers you glimpses of artefacts dating back to the 7th century.
Hidden within the royal palace are two of my favourite structures: the stunning bronze statues of Ganga and Yamuna in Mul Chowk, and the dazzling step well called Tushahiti in Sundari Chowk. The statues guard the entrance of the Taleju temple – the royal deity of the Malla Kings – and are almost life-sized. Tushahiti charmed me with its elaborate carvings, at the centre of which is a golden tap in the shape of Vishnu riding on Garuda. The step well was used for ceremonial baths by the royal family.
Patan Durbar Square has a plethora of secrets to be unravelled. One day is not nearly enough to discover them all. It is one of the very best places to visit in Kathmandu (and you can stay in one of the many charming guest houses or boutique hotels, too).
Ami Bhat is a full-time travel writer, photographer and blogger who believes in counting experiences and not just places. You can catch her adventures at ThrillingTravel.in
Thamel by Paula Martinelli
A trip to Nepal was on my bucket list for many years. Home to a centuries old culture and the highest mountains on the planet, the small Himalayan country long intrigued me. I spent 30 days in Nepal, with most of my time in Kathmandu.
One of my favourite things to do was to explore Thamel. A crowded commercial spot, with disorganized streets and narrow alleys, Thamel offers visitors a mix of religious monuments, magnificent temples, lively pubs, restaurants that serve delicious local cuisine, and shops filled with local handicrafts and artwork. In Thamel, you can walk for hours and have fun getting lost while you look for clothes, hiking gear, or bargains. Or, you can simply stroll and enjoy the people watching.
As Thamel is a touristy area, the prices are higher than in other areas of Kathmandu – so be prepared to bargain.
Thamel is a car-free area, so if you are not in a mood to walk, you can take a cycle rickshaw to get around. If you are not staying in the area, taxis are the easiest and quickest option to get to Thamel. I chose to stay in a hotel close to Thamel, so I could walk every morning to find a cosy and colourful café, and every evening to find a new amazing restaurant.
Paula Martinelli blogs at Paula Pins the Planet.
Boudhanath by Teja on the Horizon
I don’t know what possessed me to stay near Boudhanath instead of the more popular choice of Thamel when I was in Kathmandu. But I’m glad I did.
Boudhanath is a UNESCO site because of its stupa’s importance as a Buddhist pilgrimage destination in the Himalaya for hundreds of years. Aside from being among the largest in the world, I also found the stupa’s wisdom eyes fascinating.
The Boudhanath neighbourhood has a different character than the rest of Kathmandu. It has a peaceful vibe that I thoroughly enjoyed. The shops sell Tibetan artwork, souvenirs, and brightly coloured traditional Tibetan clothing, which the local women wear as the circle the stupa.
A constant flow of pilgrims walk or prostrate in circumambulation around the gleaming white stupa, chanting mantras as they go. The ring of multi-storey buildings that surround the stupa house Buddhist seminaries, monasteries, and vegetarian eateries. Some of the latter have rooftop access, where you can gaze out over the square and upon the enigmatic eyes of the stupa. After sunset, countless lamps gild the plaza in light.
As a pilgrimage and tourist attraction, it is easy to get dropped off at Boudhanath by taxi from Thamel . But it took me two tries to find it from where I was staying. The Boudha stupa, though massive, is nestled within a ring of buildings, and the passages into it from adjacent roads are not obvious.
Inspiring and insightful travel from Teja on the Horizon .
Kirtipur, town of Newars, by Eileen of NomadicNumerist
The Kathmandu Valley is home to the Newars, a people said to be descended from the Kirat, the legendary People of the Himalaya. Living on the crossroads of ancient trading routes, a wide range of influences have mingled to create their unique culture. While Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur are well-visited Newar towns, Kirtipur is a delightfully small and lesser known Newar town, just on the outskirts of Kathmandu.
Kirtipur is easily accessible by bus in a half hour ride from Kathmandu’s Ratnapark bus station. It’s old town boasts tranquil lanes and the red-bricked, ornate buildings for which the Newars are famous. I was there for the Indrayani Jatra, Kirtipur’s most important festival during which the goddess Indrayani is taken from her shrine and carried around the streets by the men of Kirtipur.
After a lunch in Lahana Newa restaurant, where I was cajoled into trying the Newari favourite, sapumhicha (buffalo intestines stuffed with bone marrow), we tracked down the jatra. It was in full swing as sweating men charged around with Indrayani on a heavy, wooden chariot, and women circled with jugs of aaila (Newar rice whisky). Indrayani was eventually brought to the main square where the locals hustled to touch their head to her feet and make offerings of vegetables. The aaila flowed, prasads were thrown and the dancing continued all day.
Eileen is a travelling writer who finds it hard to leave the Indian subcontinent. Her writings can be found at Nomadicnumerist .
Garden of Dreams by Jenny of TraveLynn Family
Garden of Dreams The Garden of Dreams is an oasis within the chaos of downtown Kathmandu with its manicured lawns, ponds, and flora-arched walkways. There are even mats and cushions laid out for use, and you’re allowed to bring in your own drinks and picnic. It’s a lovely place to spend the afternoon; although expect to share the lawn with a few canoodling locals (it’s apparently the best place in town to bring a date).
Whilst we loved exploring the various sites of the city and wandering Thamel to stock up on important things like Spiderman woolly hats for our Himalayan trek, finding a green space in the city centre was a breath of fresh air (literally).
If you’re visiting Nepal with kids (it’s one of our favourite trips we’ve done with the kids), you will no doubt spend some time in Kathmandu and discover, as we did, that Garden of Dreams is perfect for kids. Entrance is 200 rupees for foreigners.
Jenny from TraveLynn Family
Best places to stay in Kathmandu
Kathmandu has many options when it comes to accommodation. There are luxury hotels, mid-range hotels, boutique hotels, guest houses, hostels, and home stays, and something for every budget. The city is spread out and transportation is not the best in Kathmandu, so I would suggest carefully choosing your area. Popular choices are Thamel (for backpackers), central Kathmandu, Patan, and Boudhanath.
I love the hotels owned and operated by Royal Mountain Travel. Traditional Comfort Boutique Hotel is in central Kathmandu — and yes it is both in a traditional style and very comfortable. And on a smaller scale, the charming and elegant Traditional Stay Hotel in Patan, which has a fantastic location very near Durbar Square.
In Thamel, I love Kathmandu Guest House, which has a large garden, many room choices, and a whole lot of history! The Kathmandu Guest House is one of those iconic hotels, legendary for both its place in local history and folklore, and for the people who have stayed there. Celebrating 50 years in 2018, it opened in Thamel in 1968 when the area was just farmer’s fields. The Thamel we know today, as the tourist hub of Kathmandu, grew up around the Kathmandu Guest House, and this was the place many writers, explorers, mountaineers, and celebrities stayed. You can read more about it in this post .
Where to eat and drink in Kathmandu
There are lots of choices but when I was recently in Kathmandu, my favourite spot is Karma Coffee and HUB Boudha, run by my friends Birgit and Raj. Raj Gyawali is the founder fo the responsible tourism company Social Tours . HUB Boudha is a wonderful “concept space” with shady trees, outdoor seating and the amazing food, tea, and coffee of Karma Coffee. They go to great lengths to ensure the products are locally sourced and fair trade. And not only is everything fresh and delicious, they have gluten free options too, which I was worried I would not find in Nepal.
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About Mariellen Ward
Professional travel writer Mariellen Ward is the founder of award-winning Breathedreamgo. Mariellen has a BA in Journalism and has been travel writing and blogging since 2005. She has won many awards, including a National Tourism Award from Incredible India Tourism, and writes for some of the world’s leading publications including BBC Travel and NatGeo Traveller India.
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