What should I know before visiting Kathmandu?

Direct answer

Kathmandu is Nepal’s bustling cultural and historic heart — prepare for high energy, rich heritage, variable air quality, and basic but improving tourist infrastructure. Plan visas, timing, safety and transport in advance to get the most from your visit.

Visa & entry requirements

• Many nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport and land borders; check Nepal’s Department of Immigration website for current eligibility and fees.
• e-Visa/online application is available and recommended to speed up arrival.
• Passport should be valid at least 6 months with blank pages.
• Have printed copies of your passport, visa approval (if used), onward ticket and accommodation details.

Best time to visit

• Peak seasons: Late September–November (autumn) and March–May (spring). Best weather, clear mountain views, festivals.
• Monsoon: June–August (heavy rain, landslides in hills, fewer crowds).
• Winter: December–February (cool to cold; mornings may be hazy but cheaper rates).

Safety tips

• Crime: Petty theft and bag snatching occur — keep valuables secure, use hotel safes, be cautious in crowded areas.
• Scams: Beware of unofficial tour guides, overpriced taxis — agree fares or insist on meters.
• Health: Air pollution can be high; consider masks and limit strenuous activity on bad-air days. Drink bottled or purified water; avoid raw salads from unreliable vendors.
• Altitude: Kathmandu sits at ~1,400 m (mild altitude). If trekking higher, acclimatize properly.
• Political events: Roadblocks or strikes (bandhs) can occur; monitor local news and avoid demonstrations.

Local customs & etiquette

• Greet with a polite “Namaste” (hands together).
• Dress modestly, especially at temples and stupas. Shoulders and knees covered are appreciated.
• Remove shoes and hats when entering temples and some homes.
• Ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural or religious contexts.
• Tip modestly in restaurants, for guides and drivers; tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.

Currency & money

• Currency: Nepalese Rupee (NPR). Carry small bills and change.
• ATMs are common in Kathmandu but can run out of cash; inform your bank before travel.
• Credit cards accepted at many hotels, restaurants and tourist shops but carry cash for markets and small vendors.
• Exchange: Use banks or reputable money changers; keep receipts when exchanging.

Transportation

• Airport: Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) is in the city — traffic can be heavy.
• Taxis: Metered taxis are rare; agree a price beforehand. Ride-hailing apps (e.g., Pathao, Tootle for bikes) operate in the city.
• Microbuses and public buses are cheap but crowded and slow.
• Walking: Many central attractions are walkable, but beware of uneven sidewalks and traffic.
• Domestic flights: Weather can disrupt flights to mountain destinations; plan buffer time.

Must-know practical tips & local insights

• SIM & connectivity: Buy a local SIM (NTC or Ncell) at airport or shops; bring passport copy for registration. Mobile data is affordable.
• Accommodation: Thamel is tourist-friendly with many hotels, restaurants and travel agencies; for quieter neighborhoods consider Lazimpat, Jhamsikhel (Kamaladi), or Sanepa.
• Food: Try Newari cuisine and momo, dal-bhat-tarkari. Street food is tasty but pick busy stalls with high turnover.
• Cultural sites: Don’t miss Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath, Durbar Squares (Kathmandu, Patan, Bhaktapur). Many sites have entry fees.
• Pollution & noise: Expect noise and dust; carry earplugs and a mask if sensitive.
• Bargaining: Haggling is common in markets — start ~30% lower than the asking price.
• Electricity and water: Power cuts occur; many hotels have backup generators. Carry a power adapter and portable charger.
• Responsible travel: Respect sacred sites, support local businesses, avoid single-use plastics when possible.

Enjoyment checklist

• Allow extra time for travel and delays.
• Keep copies of important documents.
• Balance temple visits with walking in quieter neighborhoods and sampling local food.

If you want, I can suggest a 1–3 day Kathmandu itinerary or help book a SIM, airport pickup, or recommend trusted local guides and restaurants.