Kathmandu Travel Guide

Things to know before visiting Kathmandu

The following are everything you need to know before visiting Kathmandu:

• Currency Exchange: You can get currency exchanged at any currency exchange shop in Thamel or around either of the Durbar Square areas. When you go to a trustworthy currency exchanger, exchange rates are shown in charts.
• Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory in Nepal when you visit bars, restaurants, hotels, etc. However, when you do, the locals will surely appreciate it.
• Accommodation Choice: There are plenty of choices for visitors regarding accommodation. You can find budget hotels for $10 to luxury hotels at $50 and above. Likewise, hotels and homestays are not hard to find around Kathmandu either.
• Local Languages: There is more than just one local language in Kathmandu. Not everyone speaks Nepali except for those from the Chhetri and Brahmin communities. A majority of the population in the valley are Newari people who speak their respective languages. Similarly, you will find people from Tamang and Kirati backgrounds who speak their language. There are just as many people, especially young ones, who speak fluent English.
• 2015 Earthquake in Kathmandu: The 2015 earthquake in Nepal left the capital city devastated. The calamity destroyed a major monument, a nine-story Dharahara. Many people lost their lives, and several ancient homes and religious sites were destroyed. The city has long healed from the trauma of 2015.
  

  Things to experience in Kathmandu

The following are all the things you should experience when in Kathmandu:

• UNESCO World Heritage Sites Visit: You can visit different locations enlisted in UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Pashupatinath temple, the three Durbar squares in Kathmandu, Patan, Bhaktapur, Swoyambhunath temple, Bouddhanath, etc. In Kathmandu Valley, these places light up during major festivals like Dashain, Tihar, Holi, and Indra Jatra.
• Cuisines Not to Miss: You can list a bunch of Nepalese cuisines, including Thakali, Newari, and Tharu cuisines when you are in Kathmandu. Besides the local eateries, you will also find a variety of regional dishes in posh hotels.
• Rickshaw Ride: Rickshaws are available in the busy streets of Kathmandu to take visitors on a short ride around the city. The roofed cycle rides are not very expensive, but you’d not want to miss out on riding one.
• Kathmandu Valley Mount Biking: Mount Biking in Kathmandu is popular among tourists worldwide. From the capital city’s roads to the hills inside the valley, you can experience a lifetime without too much effort.
• Hiking: Two of the major places to go hiking in Kathmandu Valley are Phulchowki and Shivapuri Conservation Area. The hike will take 5 to 6 hours and give you a glimpse of major peaks and city life from a distance.
• Pottery: There are pottery spots in Bhaktapur and Patan. These locations offer an authentic experience with clay pottery. You can paint them or take them home.
• Everest Heli Tour: In a single day, you can travel from Kathmandu to Sagarmatha or Mount Everest by airplane and return within hours. The transition from hustling and bustling city life to a more serene life in remote Khumbu is a unique sight to witness at least once in a lifetime!
• Nightlife in Thamel: When you’re in Kathmandu, you can enjoy the nightlife of Thamel. The nightclubs and the lively touristy markets with eateries and souvenir shops are unmissable!
  

  Essential Tips for Visiting Kathmandu

To enjoy your visit to Kathmandu in the best way, you need to follow the essential tips as follows:

• Local Transportation: You can choose local transportation to save a few rupees. There are plenty of microbuses, tempos, and taxis almost everywhere when you’re on the main roads. The former two vehicles cost from US 15 cents to $5. The latter option of commuting is likely to cost more than $50.
• Get a Local SIM Card: Your travel guide or a local friend can help you get a local SIM card, which will be useful for making phone calls throughout Nepal and getting data service when WiFi is unavailable.
• Get Insured: You need to get insured before you visit Kathmandu. Though it is not mandatory, getting insured always leaves you with peace of mind.
• Carry a Personal Water Bottle: You won’t have to spend on mineral water bottles every time you’re thirsty when you carry a water bottle. This way, you will also be promoting eco-friendly tourism.
• Vaccination: It would be wise to get vaccinated after a brief visit to a physician before you start your travel to Kathmandu