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Province 3 · Bagmati

Kathmandu (काठमाडौं)

District headquarters: Kathmandu

heritagecity culturepilgrimagefoodgateway
👥Fact

Population

2,041,587

📏Fact

Area

395 km²

⛰️Fact

Reference elevation

1,400 m

🏙️Fact

Density

5,169/km²

Last updated August 26, 2026

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Kathmandu

Kathmandu is the administrative headquarters of the district and a useful reference point for planning local travel.

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Best time

Choose your season carefully

October-November and March-April are usually the most comfortable. Winter is dry and cool; monsoon can mean clouds and rain.

Read seasonal guidance →

Getting there

Check the route before you leave

Tribhuvan International Airport is Nepal’s main international gateway. Roads, buses, taxis and domestic air connections make Kathmandu the country’s principal travel hub. Exact transport schedules, road conditions, domestic flight operations and permit rules should be checked shortly before travel because these can change.

See transport details →

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5 places featured

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Introduction

Kathmandu (काठमाडौं) Overview

Kathmandu is the capital district of Nepal and the most populous, densely populated (5,169 persons per km²), and economically significant district in the country. Home to the Kathmandu Valley UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Swayambhunath, the district is the cultural, political, and economic heart of Nepal. Kathmandu blends ancient Newar civilization with modern urban development, hosting government offices, foreign embassies, international organizations, and major educational institutions. The district is a major tourism hub, attracting millions of visitors annually to its medieval temples, stupas, and vibrant markets like Asan and Indra Chowk. Despite challenges of urbanization, pollution, and infrastructure strain, Kathmandu remains the center of Nepalese arts, literature, cuisine, and political life, representing the nation's rich heritage and aspirations.

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Location & Map

Coordinates

27.71720, 85.32400

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Worth the journey

Places to Visit

Kathmandu Durbar Square (काठमाडौं दरबार स्क्वायर)

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No additional description is available.

Swayambhunath (स्वयम्भूनाथ)

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No additional description is available.

Pashupatinath (पशुपतिनाथ)

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No additional description is available.

Boudhanath (बौद्धनाथ)

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No additional description is available.

Thamel and heritage neighborhoods

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No additional description is available.

Experiences

Things to Do

Tour the historic courtyards of Kathmandu Durbar Square, visit the ancient Swayambhunath and Boudhanath stupas, observe sacred rituals at Pashupatinath Temple, shop in Thamel, and taste momo, Newari cuisine, thukpa, and street snacks.

Plan your route

How to Get There

Tribhuvan International Airport is Nepal’s main international gateway. Roads, buses, taxis and domestic air connections make Kathmandu the country’s principal travel hub. Exact transport schedules, road conditions, domestic flight operations and permit rules should be checked shortly before travel because these can change.

Choose your season

Best Time to Visit

October-November and March-April are usually the most comfortable. Winter is dry and cool; monsoon can mean clouds and rain.

Continue your journey

Nearby Attractions

Bhaktapur, Lalitpur, Kavrepalanchok, Nuwakot, Dhading (neighboring districts / route ideas)

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Common questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Kathmandu (काठमाडौं) District?
Kathmandu (काठमाडौं) District is in Bagmati. The district headquarters is Kathmandu.
What is Kathmandu (काठमाडौं) District known for?
Kathmandu (काठमाडौं) is highlighted for heritage, city culture, pilgrimage, food, gateway, along with its local landscapes, communities, culture, and places to explore.
How do I get to Kathmandu (काठमाडौं) District?
Tribhuvan International Airport is Nepal’s main international gateway. Roads, buses, taxis and domestic air connections make Kathmandu the country’s principal travel hub. Exact transport schedules, road conditions, domestic flight operations and permit rules should be checked shortly before travel because these can change.
When is the best time to visit Kathmandu (काठमाडौं) District?
October-November and March-April are usually the most comfortable. Winter is dry and cool; monsoon can mean clouds and rain.
Does Kathmandu (काठमाडौं) District have a map?
Yes. The Location & Map section provides available map information and, where available, an interactive map or external map link.

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