Kathmandu City Guide

Local dishes like Dal Bhat and Momos are must-tries. Lots of international options in Thamel and Lazimpat. Many places offer vegetarian and vegan food. Late-night food mainly in Thamel.

Nightlife centers in Thamel with bars, pubs, and live music. Options include relaxed pubs and clubs with DJs.

Growing coffee scene with specialty shops and Nepali beans widely available.

Tipping isn't required but common in tourist spots. Restaurants usually add 10% service charge; 5-10% tip is appreciated if not included. Taxis are usually rounded up.

Buy SIM cards at the airport or stores for Ncell or Nepal Telecom. Registration needs passport and photo. eSIMs are limited but starting.

Street cleanliness is a challenge, especially outside tourist areas. Waste management is improving slowly.

Some late-night pharmacies and shops exist. Food options late at night are mostly in Thamel. Emergency services operate 24/7.

Supermarkets like Bhatbhateni and Big Mart stock local and international items. Fresh markets sell produce and spices. Shops open mostly 10 AM to 7 PM.

Card payments work in big hotels and shops, but cash is needed for most smaller places and transport.

ATMs are common in tourist spots like Thamel and Lazimpat. Nabil, Standard Chartered, and Himalayan Bank ATMs usually work well. Expect withdrawal fees on international cards.

International schools like Lincoln, British School, and Ullens teach mainly in English with IB and British curricula. Apply early to avoid waitlists.

Small but growing digital nomad community. Meetups are occasional and cafes with Wi-Fi are increasing.

Parks and botanical gardens exist but quality and coverage vary. Pollution affects enjoyment.

Popular routes around Boudhanath, Shivapuri Park, and Bagmati River. Air quality and safety can be issues.

Gyms range from basic to modern. Some hotels have fitness centers.

Tennis courts at sports centers and clubs; booking may be required.

Padel is not common here.

Many studios offer various styles and drop-in classes with English-speaking instructors.

Gyms offer Taekwondo, Karate, Boxing, some BJJ and Muay Thai. Trial classes possible.

No developed skiing resorts.

Kayaking and rafting available on rivers outside the city with rentals and tours.

No surfing; the city is inland with no ocean.

No diving due to being landlocked.

Private hospitals like Norvic and CIWEC have English-speaking staff and decent care. Pharmacies are common and often open late. Public hospitals may have longer waits.

Tap water isn’t safe to drink without boiling or filtering. Bottled and filtered water is widely available.

There are playgrounds and kid-friendly cafes, plus attractions like Durbar Square and the Monkey Temple. Baby supplies are easy to find.

Urban areas are more accepting with safe spaces mainly in tourist zones. Pride events occur annually.

Some pet-friendly places and vets exist but options and parks are limited. Import rules are strict.