19 Best Places to Visit in Kathmandu in 2024- Updated Guide

Major Tourist Attractions in Kathmandu

In the capital city of Nepal, there are many places to visit for any purpose like to go on a short or long climb, spend the evening with friends, or simply explore and take in some of the city's stunning architecture. According to your mood and interests, we've listed 19 various spots to hang out below. Let's have a look at those top picks of the places to visit in Kathmandu below.

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Kathmandu Durbar Square is one of the three ancient royal palaces and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also one of the most visited tourist places in the city. It reflects the historical and cultural significance of Nepal. The Durbar Square charms visitors with its century-old temples and palaces.

Kathmandu Durbar Square is within walking distance of the major Tourist Residential Area, Thamel. This place can be one of the best places to visit due to its ancient architecture and the old history of Nepal’s Monarchy.

There were many events like Kot Parva (A political Massacre), the Capital Administration of Ancient Nepal and many more prevalent here. Along with these, you will get to see the mischievous architecture of Medieval Nepal preserved still like it was before.

Travelling to Kathmandu Durbar Square will always make you feel like time travelling in Kathmandu.

Additional places not to miss

As Durbar Square is in Central Kathmandu, it has so much to offer. Two of them are:

Hanuman Dhoka

Hanuman Dhoka Palace, located in Kathmandu, is a famous and historical attraction. Hanuman Dhoka is known for its ancient palaces, courtyards, and temples that reflect Nepal's cultural and political history. It is an essential destination for those interested in exploring Kathmandu's fascinating past. 

Hanuman Dhoka is good to explore its magnificence and historical significance. Tourists visit Hanuman Dhoka to get an insight into Nepal's glorious past and is a captivating journey through centuries of royal history.

Kal Bhairav Kathmandu

Known as the Truth Extracter of Kathmandu; Kal Bhairav is also a significant place inside Kathmandu Durbar Square. This place might seem fearful but is amazing to visit. You will see people praying almost all the time in front of Kal Bhairav and are believed to be telling the truth.

It is also believed that, in ancient times Kal Bhairav used to judge criminals if they lied. The locals believe that the liar used to puke blood whenever he/she used to lie and avoid the crime.

Swayambhunath Stupa

To visit Kathmandu, it is a must-see attraction for travellers interested in local culture and history. This place is located in the northwest of the Valley on a top hill where visitors enjoy climbing 365 steps to reach the place.

Swayambhunath is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The place is also known as "Monkey Temple" due to the large population of monkeys residing there. As located on a top hill, Swayambhunath is famous for local sightseeing where visitors can overlook the Kathmandu Valley from a high altitude.

Previously, when Kathmandu valley was known to be a lake Swayambhunath had a great significance. It is believed that it was the first hill and first residential area when Kathmandu Valley was formed to stay at.

Boudhanath Stupa

Bauddhanath, the Buddhist Monastery, is one of the most famous places to visit in Kathmandu. As a key highlight among Kathmandu attractions, this sacred Buddhist site is one of the largest stupas in the world. Bauddhanath offers visitors a place for meditation and prayer. It also reflects unique Buddhist religious significance, culture and architecture.

For those exploring Kathmandu tourist places, Boudhanath Stupa is a must-see place in Kathmandu Valley. The place is located about 11 km (6.8 mi) from the centre and northeastern outskirts of Kathmandu.

Pashupatinath Temple

Pashupatinath Temple is one of the most respected and famous places to visit in Kathmandu. The place attracts devotees and tourists alike with its spiritual ambience of Lord Shiva and architectural beauty. This sacred Hindu temple is one of the significant places to visit in Kathmandu. Pashupatinath Temple offers a profound insight into Nepal's religious practices. 

Tourists visiting Kathmandu and seeking relief and a deeper understanding of local traditions, the sacred place Pashupatinath Temple is the place you must visit. Pashupatinath is around a mile away from the TIA.

Patan Durbar Square

Patan Durbar Square, a World Heritage Site is located in the heart of Lalitpur. The place recalls the city's historical and cultural wealth, making it a standout among other places of KTM.

As a famous place in Kathmandu Valley, this place showcases more than 600 ancient stupas, 136 courtyards, and intricate temples. Patan Durbar Square showcases the fine artistry of Newari architecture. It is the best place for visitors to explore, offering a deep dive into the heritage and traditions of Nepal. 

Patan Durbar Square is undoubtedly a top choice for those compiling a list of places to see in KTM, promising an unforgettable journey through time.

Patan Golden Temple Entrance: 

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Bhaktapur Durbar Square is a popular heritage site. It features an ancient royal palace, temples, and artworks that offer a glimpse into Nepal's rich ancient history. The place is known for its well-preserved cultural and architectural treasures. It is a must-visit place for anyone exploring Kathmandu's tourist destinations. 

Bhaktapur Durbar Square offers an unparalleled experience of Nepal's traditions and heritage. For anyone exploring places to visit in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur Durbar Square is an essential visit. It is an ancient royal palace complex located in Bhaktapur.

Changunarayan Temple

Changunarayan Temple is an almost 1000-year-old temple. It is a hidden gem. The temple offers stunning views and a peaceful spiritual atmosphere. The temple is about 7 miles (12 km) east of Kathmandu and a few miles north of Bhaktapur.

Changunarayan Temple is the oldest temple in Nepal and is renowned for its rich history and beautiful examples of early Nepalese art. If you're looking for a unique and enriching experience, then this temple is one of the best places to visit in Kathmandu. It provides a serene retreat into spirituality and culture, making it a perfect spot for travellers who want a deeper tourism experience.

Chandragiri

Chandragiri is a peaceful getaway located on a lush hill outside the Valley. It's a great place to escape from the city and enjoy stunning panoramic views with friends and family. Tourists come to explore the temple and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Visitors can go to the top hill where Chandragiri is located through cable car.

Chandragiri is one of the best places to visit in Kathmandu to experience Nepal's rich cultural heritage and engage oneself in nature. It's considered one of the top destinations for adventurists and those seeking peace. 

This scenic spot has gained fame as a famous place in Kathmandu for its historical significance to King Prithivi Narayan Shah and its natural beauty. The place draws visitors to explore its ancient temple and picturesque surroundings.

Thamel

Thamel is a lively place located in the heart of Kathmandu. The place is known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse mix of shops, restaurants, and bars. It is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering a dynamic blend of culture, entertainment, and commerce.

For anyone to visit in Kathmandu, Thamel is a must-visit destination that promises an unforgettable journey through Nepal's cultural heart.

Thamel provides an immersive experience of the city's vibrant street life and diverse offerings. Travellers and tourists can find all the essentials for themselves in this place.

Narayanhiti Palace Museum

Narayanhiti Palace is a cultural landmark located near Thamel. The place represents Nepal's royal history. The former Royal Palace is famous for its grand architecture and historical significance to the Royal Family of Nepal.

Visitors can explore the wealthy interiors, intricate woodwork, and fascinating exhibits. The Narayanhiti Palace offers a glimpse into the country's past. The palace is an ideal destination for travellers who want to explore Nepal's royal heritage with their friends and family. Visitors can witness the wonder of its former monarchs.

Kopan Monastery

Kopan Monastery is a peaceful and famous spiritual place to visit in Kathmandu located in its north. It provides a calm retreat for visitors seeking a break from the busy city.  

Kopan Monastery is a great place to visit in Kathmandu if you're looking for spiritual enrichment and inner peace. You can explore the city's tourist interests while also finding a sense of calm and tranquillity at the monastery. 

Budhanilkantha Temple

Budhanilkantha is an equally sacred site to Pashupatinath. It is known for its sleeping Vishnu statue and intricate stone carvings in a serene pond. The place offers a peaceful retreat into spirituality and culture.

Budhanilkantha is situated at the northern edge of the Kathmandu Valley. It is a remarkable site, emerging as a unique attraction among the spiritual landmarks. 

Taleju Temple

Taleju Bhawani Temple opens only once a year for visitors. However, the area can be seen directly while you are inside the Durbar Square of Kathmandu. This tall temple carries an intricate significance as it is believed that the ancient kings of Nepal used to observe the whole valley from here. They used to check whether all of their citizens had food or not by observing every household and ensuring all of them had smoke coming out of their chimneys.

This temple opens only once during the time of the biggest festival of Nepal; Dashain. If you are travelling to Nepal during that time, then you might be lucky enough to see the rituals going on inside.

National Museum of Nepal

The National Museum of Nepal is one of the famous museums managed by the Nepal Army. This place includes the arms and ammunitions of the Nepal Army used during the wars in ancient times. 

One can also observe the infantries used during the time of World War by the Nepal Army while they supported the British Government. The museum is located in Chhauni which is just behind Swayambhunath.

Dakshinkali Temple

Dakshinkali Temple can be visited while you have around 1 and a half hours to travel on a vehicle to here. Due to the spiritual belief in the Goddess Dakshinkali, one can observe so many sacrifices of animals here. 

It is believed that if one prays to the Goddess with a clean heart and offers her the blood of lamb, hen, or goat, then the prayer will be heard.

Pharping

On a hill station, while going to Dakshinkali, you can see the Pharping. Pharping is one of the famous places to visit in Kathmandu for its picnic spot. As this place is quiet and far from the hustle and bustle of the traffic, peace lovers are usually found over here. 

This place also has so many monasteries where you can find peace and serenity inside by performing meditations.

Vajrayogini Temple

Another Spiritual temple of the valley is Vajrayogini. It is situated in Sankhu which is the borderline of the valley. This place carries significance as is believed to protect Kathmandu Valley from the northern evils.

It is a key destination among Kathmandu tourist places.

Shivapuri National Park

For anyone who wants natural places to visit in Kathmandu, then a little bit away from the city centre, lies the Shivapuri National Park. Nature lovers perform hiking here alongside the Bagmati River up to Chisapani. Chisapani is the point from where you enter the Langtang National Park. You can also see the Langtang, Ganesh, and more of the Himalayan range from here.

The best time to visit here is during the Spring and autumn time. Yet, this place is pretty famous for monsoon hiking, yet due to leeches, travellers do not get here. Also, during an early morning visit, you can get to spot many birds like those of Chitwan National Park.

Garden of Dreams

If you are searching for peaceful places to visit in Kathmandu then the Garden of Dreams is the best choice. Whether you are a book lover or a date person, this place offers everything. Beyond all the temples and hustle and bustles of Kathmandu, you can find peace here.

Garden of Dreams is located near Thamel, so anyone residing here can give a visit.

Conclusion

All of these best places to visit in Kathmandu are equally important. We suggest that you hire a guide or book a trip with a good agency to know the real value of the places. We hope you enjoy all the famous places in KTM with your friends and family. And to an extent any place can be the best destination in KTM Valley for anyone.