Nepal travel guide
Kathmandu Valley
The cultural heart of Nepal — Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and the valley-rim hill towns, with everything to plan a visit in one place.
The Kathmandu Valley is where most Nepal trips begin — a compact bowl holding the country's densest concentration of heritage: three medieval royal cities, seven UNESCO monument zones, and a rim of hill towns with sunrise views of the Himalaya. You can spend days here without running out of temples, squares and quiet Newari corners.
How to explore the valley
Base in Kathmandu for the Durbar Square, stupas and old town, then day-trip out: Bhaktapur and Patan for living medieval heritage, Nagarkot or Dhulikhel for mountain sunrises, and Panauti, Namobuddha, Kirtipur, Chitlang or Kakani for quieter corners. Pick a destination below to dive into its sights, stays and food.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Kathmandu Valley known for?+
The Kathmandu Valley is the cultural and historical heart of Nepal — home to seven UNESCO World Heritage monument zones, including the three royal cities of Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur with their medieval Durbar Squares, plus the great stupas of Boudhanath and Swayambhunath and the temple of Pashupatinath. Its rim is ringed by hill towns with Himalayan views.
How many days do you need in the Kathmandu Valley?+
Three to four days covers the three Durbar Squares and the main stupas and temples at a comfortable pace. Add a day or two for the valley-rim towns — Nagarkot or Dhulikhel for sunrise mountain views, Panauti or Bhaktapur for living Newari heritage. Many travellers use the valley as their arrival base before Pokhara or a trek.
What are the best day trips in the Kathmandu Valley?+
Bhaktapur and Patan for medieval squares and crafts; Nagarkot and Dhulikhel for Himalayan sunrises; Namobuddha for a hilltop monastery; Panauti and Kirtipur for quiet Newari towns; and Kakani or Chitlang for green escapes. Each town's guide below has the detail.
Plan your Nepal trip
Pick your dates, then let a guided package sort the permits, transport and lodges for you.
