Brace yourself for a trip of a lifetime. Kathmandu is a city of wonders; a land that keeps ticking all the time – day and night. The capital of Nepal is traditional yet modern, spiritual and high-spirited, religious yet free-minded. Just immerse in its liveliness and we promise you’ll get a kick out of Kathmandu.
Religious harmony, natural beauty, glorious history, great food, and greater adventures await you in this Himalayan city. One trip won’t be enough to explore it all. But worry not, coz we’ll help you sample the best Kathmandu has to offer.
Walk, cycle or ride!
Relaxed is the mode that you should be in while exploring Kathmandu. The city is always active, but its real-life lies in its narrow alleyways and streets. We recommend walking, cycling or riding a Vespa to enjoy Kathmandu better. Soak in the colour, imbibe the sights and inhale the smells and sample the tasty treats as explore at your own leisure. You’ll find yourself smiling without being prompted. That’s the magic of Kathmandu.
The Cityscape
Kathmandu is an eclectic mix of old and new. At one point you’ll be walking by swanky new buildings, take a turn and suddenly you might feel like have walked through a time warp. The scene greeting you would be that of an ancient building or a temple with people in traditional garb. It’s surreal but totally real. You can enjoy more of the historic side by strolling through the streets in Old Kathmandu, discover ancient trade routes, grand old Buddhist and Hindu temples on the go. Take breaks to enjoy sweet, spicy tea and local snacks. Then get going again.
The Rustic Experience
Take your Vespa for a ride to one the village in the Kathmandu Valley, where traditional farming and livestock rearing practices are still followed. Enjoy the fresh air and watch the farmers at work. If you’re game, join in. Accept their hospitality and be pampered by the simple yet magnanimous village folk. It’s a welcome break from the frenetic pace of the city.
Spiritual quest
Two of the world’s oldest religions coexist and thrive in the nation. Hinduism and Buddhism are practised diligently by the Nepalese. And pilgrims from across the world throng Kathmandu as it is home to famous temples of both religions.
Let that karmic atmosphere rub off. Join the vibrant religious festivities, the rituals and prayers. Or just visit these religious sites as a curious tourist. You can have debates or conversations with learned monks or just enjoy the rites as they happen. It’s a win-win every which way you engage in these.
Food and drinks
Okay, you might read a lot about dal-bhaat, chai and samosas. But Nepalese cuisine is way vaster and more varied. And you have to indulge in the gorgeous array of foods while you are in Kathmandu. From the authentic Newari cuisine to foods inspired by Indian and Chinese traditions can be found in every street. We bet your palate and gut will yearn for more and more. If your passion for food extends to cooking, be sure to learn a few recipes. We say, learn while you eat.
Street Art Scene
The art scene in Kathmandu is trendier than you’d imagine. If you have a taste for street art, Kathmandu is your ideal haunt. There are a bunch of talented artists who have adorned the walls of the city with government-sanctioned projects and others. Gods, goddesses, animals, nature, angst, joy and every other emotion are expressed in dimension-defying style with vivid colours.
The Symbol of Valour
The status of khukri (long knife) in Nepal is equal to that of a katana in Japan – a symbol of honour, valour and strength. You can visit these master blacksmiths who will teach to forge your own weapon. A khukri is a must-have souvenir from Nepal and the pride is manifold when it’s the one that you forged.
Cycling Tour
Cycling in the city is restraining. So, take a detour through Old Kathmandu to some of the nearby villages. Ride uphill and race down. Let the fresh air caress you all the while. Stop by to enjoy the beauty of nature or houses and other structures made traditionally. You can mix up the experience with short treks and refuel with chai and snacks.
Breakfast at Everest Base Camp
You are in Kathmandu. So close to the majestic peak – Mount Everest. How can you resist the lure to at least watch its grandeur? You cannot and we say you need not. A short helicopter ride will take you to the Base Camp. And there you can enjoy a hearty breakfast without even moving your gaze from the epic peak. Take your time and savour the majestic vision.