Panauti, about 32 km south-east of Kathmandu, is a beautifully preserved Newar town built at the confluence of the Roshi and Punyamati rivers. Its brick lanes, courtyards and temples see far fewer visitors than Bhaktapur, and its Indreshwar Mahadev temple is among the oldest pagoda temples in Nepal.
Quick answer: Panauti is about 1–1.5 hours by road from Kathmandu. Explore the old town, the Indreshwar Mahadev temple and the riverside ghats, stay in a community homestay, and hike to Namo Buddha. Best time: October–May.
Panauti at a glance
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | About 32 km south-east of Kathmandu |
| Highlights | Indreshwar Mahadev temple, riverside ghats |
| Stay | Community homestays |
| Hike | Namo Buddha (3–4 hours) |
| Best time | October–May |
Things to do
- Walk the old town and the riverside temples.
- Stay with a Newar family in a homestay.
- Hike to Namo Buddha.
Trips and guides
Plan your visit
Panauti is a peaceful alternative to the busier valley towns. Contact us and our Kathmandu team will help you plan it.