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36 Hours in Kathmandu — A Perfect Adventure Before Your Trek
Welcome to Kathmandu!
Before you lace up your boots and head off into the spectacular mountains of Nepal, take a moment to explore the vibrant, soulful heart of the country. Kathmandu isn't just a stopover — it's a sensory overload, a place where ancient temples, colorful markets, cozy cafes, and timeless rituals come together. If you have a day and a half to spare, here’s how to make the most of your time!
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Recommendations
Key Stops:
- Durbar Square: Explore centuries-old temples and palaces.
- Boudhanath Stupa: Walk in the sacred circle of this massive Buddhist site.
- Garden of Dreams: A peaceful oasis perfect for relaxing.
- Pashupatinath Temple: Witness spiritual rituals and riverfront cremations.
Markets and Shops:
- Asan Tole Bazaar
- Indra Chowk Garment Market
- Souvenir shops around Thamel
Restaurants and Bars:
- Raithaane (Authentic Nepali Cuisine)
- Musicology (Live music bar)
- Little Tibet (Tibetan comfort food)
- Barc (Craft cocktails with a Nepali twist)
Where to Stay:
- Thamel for nightlife and shopping
- Lazimpat for boutique hotels and calmer vibes
Getting Around:
Taxis are the best bet! Download the InDrive app for fixed prices. Always agree on a fare before hopping in — most short rides in the city cost between 300 to 700 NPR.
Itinerary
Day 1 — Friday Afternoon & Evening
4:00 PM - Dive Into the Bazaars at Asan Tole
Kickstart your Kathmandu adventure with a stroll through Asan Tole, the heart of the city's buzzing street life. Light a candle at the Annapurna temple and sample a creamy lassi for just a few rupees!
5:00 PM - Explore Durbar Square
Head over to Durbar Square — an open-air museum of pagoda-style temples and royal courtyards. Despite the scars of the 2015 earthquake, the square still radiates historical grandeur. Look out for the intricate carvings and spot the Living Goddess Kumari’s palace!
7:00 PM - Feast at Raithaane
Tucked away south of the Baghmati River, Raithaane is a celebration of Nepal’s regional flavors. Try Sherpa-style potato pancakes, crispy buckwheat fries, or pork nuggets cooked in mustard oil!
9:00 PM - Jam Out at Musicology
Ready for a little nightlife? Musicology offers live bands, a rock-and-roll atmosphere, and a great selection of Nepali craft beers. For a more underground vibe, check out Bar Bar nearby!
Day 2 — Saturday Morning & Afternoon
9:00 AM - Wake Up at Le Sherpa Saturday Market
Start your morning at the vibrant Saturday Market at Le Sherpa in Lazimpat. Stock up on croissants, yak cheese, handmade crafts, and buffalo salami. Perfect for breakfast and souvenirs!
11:00 AM - Stroll in the Garden of Dreams
Find your calm at the beautiful Garden of Dreams. Palm trees, fountains, flowers, and old-world charm — a little slice of heaven in the middle of the city.
1:00 PM - Tuck Into Tibetan Flavors at Little Tibet
Head to Thamel and discover Little Tibet. Try tasty dishes like momos (dumplings), tsen churu (buffalo tongue salad), and creamy butter tea!
2:30 PM - Witness Life and Death at Pashupatinath
No trip to Kathmandu is complete without visiting Pashupatinath. Watch spiritual rituals, cremation ceremonies, and monkeys jumping around the temple complex.
4:30 PM - Spin the Prayer Wheels at Boudhanath
Just a short taxi ride away, Boudhanath Stupa is a spiritual marvel. Join monks and locals in a clockwise walk around the giant stupa, spin prayer wheels, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
7:00 PM - Dinner with a Dash of Magic at Tusa in Bhaktapur
If you still have energy, visit beautiful Bhaktapur and dine at Tusa Restaurant. Savor a tasting menu inspired by Nepal’s traditional ingredients, crafted with international finesse!
10:30 PM - End the Night at Barc
Wrap up your Kathmandu adventure with a nightcap at Barc, a cozy cocktail lounge offering unique drinks like buffalo-jerky whiskey and tamarind-infused gin cocktails.
Need Help Planning?
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Ganesh Tour Your trusted guide to the wonders of Nepal!
