Sign in with Facebook"Kathmandu, revisited" Top 5 Page for this destination Kathmandu by PierreZA
Kathmandu Travel Guide: 992 reviews and 2,105 photos
The early evening was cold and dark when we stood outside the airport waiting for our transport to Thamel. After a few minutes we were offered hotels, treks, excursions etc by the many touts around the airport. This was my first visit to Kathmandu and I was looking forward to explore a new city and country.
The first evening we met up with South African friends who are living and working in the Middle East. They have been to Nepal many, many times. We met at the Four Seasons Restaurant. During the first few hours of my stay in Kathmandu I experienced the very busy streets of Thamel, friendly waiters, power black outs, good food, South African wine, touts etc.
We stayed at Kathmandu Guesthouse, which is in the middle of Thamel. On arrival we had to move to a different hotel for the first night as they had a problem with a group of guests who needed to stay an extra night. At least we were upgraded fro the rest of our stay.
Despite being winter (December), it was not that cold and during the day it was possible to walk around in T-shirts. Although the days were a bit short, it was not a problem and I would visit during December again.
So, I just returned from my second visit to Kathmandu (March 2011) - and had a great time! This is such a magical, special city. Experiencing Holi in Kathmandu was a great bonus - the local people are great.
I would like to thank Songsong, my guide during this visit - for making it even better than the first visit!
There is a lot to do and see in Kathmandu. The ancient buildings in Durbar Square and the surroundings are one of the highlights.
Experience Buddism and Hinduism, almost intermingled. Visit Swayambhunath where the Monkey Temple sits high overlooking Kathmandu.
Even more impressive is the huge Stupa at Bodnath. Here you will see many Tibetans, monasteries, shops selling a wide variety, Buddhist monks etc.
The Hindu Temple at Pashupatnath gives a good idea of the Hinduism in Kathmandu. It is here where you will see the huge fires for the cremations on the banks of the Baghmati river.
Thamel with its many restaurants, bars, hotels, touts, taxis, shops etc is touristy, but fantastic.
Patan is almost part of Kathmandu, and you city you have to visit.
An amazing Durbar Square and other beautiful sights.
I enjoyed walking around, meeting the very friendly people, getting to know how they experience the city and learning what living in Kathmandu is about.
I would like to return to this great city. It is unfortunate that here are so many young people from Nepal wanting to leave the country for better opportunities. I do hope they will return to this wonderful city and country.
It is very easy to do day trips to great places in the Kathmandu Valley using the city as a base.
Bakhtapur is a must visit! It has become a bit expensive, but the money is used to keep this UNESCO world heritage city in a great condition.
Reviews (29)
Electricity Problems
What to Pack
(1)
You can buy in Kathmandu Good variety found in Kathmandu at good prices Can find what you need Do bring a torch light... more travel advice
Changu Narayan
Things to Do
(14)
Changu is in the Bhaptapur District. The main attraction is the Changu Narayan Temple. Some structures dates back to... more travel advice
The Festival of Holi!
Things to Do
(14)
What a great time I had in Kathmandu with the Holi Festival. It is a public holiday and people are just enjoying... more travel advice
HOLI !
Local Customs
(1)
What a great time I had in Kathmandu with the Holi Festival. It is a public holiday and people are just enjoying... more travel advice
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Transportation (5)
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Restaurants (2)
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Meet locals and relax -
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Comments (8)
~ Hello, Pierre! Great trip! The capital is impressive indeed..... Thanks for sharing!~
Interesting page with a lot of useful info.
I would love to visit Kathmandu and when I do plan a trip I'll certainly come back to your informative tips. The Buddha Bar sounds great :-) Good hotel and shopping advice too - thanks!
Nice new additional tip,Pierre!
You did a great job in discovering Nepal. I have enjoyed your tips and photos.
Hi Pierre. Great page. Looks like an interesting place to visit. Greetings, Klaus
Hi Pierre, I enjoyed reading your informative tips. Best. Laszlo
Pierre, thank you for visiting my Kathmandu page of my visit of almost 20 years ago. Keep me informed when you have built your page. I am interested in your recent experiences.
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