# 20 Best Things to Do in Kathmandu

_Published 20 June 2026_

Kathmandu is chaotic, colourful and packed with history. Here are the best things to do in and around Nepal's capital.

**Quick answer:** don't miss **Swayambhunath**, **Boudhanath**, **Pashupatinath** and the three **Durbar Squares** of Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur, all part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Add a **food tour**, a **day hike** on the valley rim and an **Everest mountain flight**.

## Temples and heritage

1. Climb to [Swayambhunath](/places/swayambhunath) at sunrise.
2. Walk the kora around [Boudhanath](/places/boudhanath-stupa) at dusk.
3. Watch the evening aarati at [Pashupatinath](/places/pashupatinath-temple).
4. Explore [Kathmandu Durbar Square](/places/kathmandu-durbar-square) and the Kumari Ghar.
5. See the Patan Museum and Golden Temple in [Patan](/places/patan).
6. Wander car-free [Bhaktapur](/places/bhaktapur) and taste juju dhau.
7. Visit ancient [Changunarayan](/places/changunarayan-temple).
8. See the sleeping Vishnu at [Budhanilkantha](/places/budhanilkantha).

## Experiences

9. Take a [food tour and momo-making class](/kathmandu-food-tour-cooking-class).
10. Walk the old bazaars of Asan and Indra Chowk on our [old-town walk](/kathmandu-old-town-walking-tour).
11. Relax in the [Garden of Dreams](/places/garden-of-dreams).
12. Try a [singing bowl sound meditation](/singing-bowl-sound-meditation).
13. Join a meditation course at [Kopan](/places/kopan-monastery).
14. Enjoy live music in Thamel; see our [nightlife guide](/blog/kathmandu-nightlife-guide).

## Day trips and adventures

15. Fly past Everest on a [mountain flight](/everest-mountain-flight).
16. Ride the [Chandragiri cable car](/chandragiri-cable-car-tour).
17. Hike [Shivapuri](/shivapuri-nagi-gompa-day-hike) or [Nagarkot to Changunarayan](/nagarkot-changunarayan-day-hike).
18. Mountain bike the valley rim.
19. Visit Kirtipur, Bungamati and Khokana villages.
20. Watch sunrise at [Nagarkot](/places/nagarkot).

Plan your days with our [3-day itinerary](/blog/kathmandu-3-day-itinerary) and [Kathmandu travel guide](/blog/kathmandu-travel-guide).

## Frequently asked questions
### What is the number one thing to do in Kathmandu?
Visit the great stupas and Durbar Squares.

### How many days do I need in Kathmandu?
Two to three days.

### Can I see Everest from Kathmandu?
On a mountain flight; rarely from the valley rim.

### What is a good day trip from Kathmandu?
Bhaktapur and Nagarkot.


Web page: https://himalayanhiking.com/blog/things-to-do-in-kathmandu