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| Kathmandu Travel Guide for backpackers |
Nepal's capital is by far the country's biggest and most cosmopolitan city. It's a melting pot of a dozen ethnic groups, and the home town of the Newars, Nepal's master craftsmen and traders extraordinaire. For at least a thousand years Kathmandu controlled the most important caravan route between Tibet and India.
The Kathmandu most travellers experience, Thamel, is like a thumping, Third World theme park, with hotels, restaurants and hawkers everywhere. The old city, though, is still studded with ageless temples and splendid architecture. Sacred cows still roam the streets, as do holy men, beggars, street urchins and coolies. |
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 DAILY BUDGET in KATHMANDU - You don't need a lot of money to enjoy Kathmandu, a daily budget of around US$30 will be enough to get by on quite nicely. For a more comfortable stay, especially in winter when its cold, rather budget on using US$70 per day. |
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Swayambhu - This temple is spectacular sight to behold, magnificently set atop a conical hill 2km west of Thamel. The hill commands a sweeping view of the Kathmandu Valley, and the temple complex, overrun with pilgrims and monkeys, is a real eye-opener. A visit to Swayambhu can be turned into a longer hike or bike trip by continuing on to Ichangu Narayan.
Bagmati ghats - A path from Pachali Bhairab leads to the ghats of the Bagmati River, which stretch as far as the eye can see in either direction. Statues, temples and all manner of artefacts are jumbled along these stone-paved embankments.
Durbar Square - The old royal palace (durbar), running along the eastern edge of the square, takes up more space than all the other monuments combined. The square is separated into two parts: at the southwestern end is the Kasthamandap, the ancient building that probably gave Kathmandu its name, and the northern part is taken up by a varied procession of statues and temples.
Nagarkot - Its 2 hours drive from KTM via Bhaktapur.Its gives you spectacular views of sunrise and sunset with the snowcapped mountains at the backdrop.A must visit for every traveller.
Dakshinkali Temple - Dakshinkali Temple: This temple is dedicated to the Hindu Goddess Kali or the goddess of power; she is regarded as one of the most important Hindu goddess. Please visit www.nepaltravellers.com/Sightseeing.htm for details.
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Nepalese Kitchen - Found in South Thamel, this is a great diner to sample some of the Nepali and Newari cuisine. It is relatively cheap and offers good quality meals.
Didiko Baba Bhojanalaya - This diner is popular with locals and tourists alike. It is located in Central Thamel and is a worth trying out. It serves a range of traditional Nepali food at good prices.
Thakali Bhanchha - Another traditional Nepali and Newari diner, serving up a taste of Kathmandu. Located in North Thamel, this diner is highly recommended.
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Tunnel Club - This a relatively big place that often doesn't get too overcrowded. It consists of two levels, with dancing on one and pool tables and terrace seating on the other. It is usually frequented by a younger crowd and is a good place to hang out.
New Orleans - This is a terrific place, with a sociable atmosphere and outdoor seating. They play a mix of blues and jazz, sometimes live bands perform there.
Studio 54 - A shabby disco with a mainly young Nepali clientele, a small admission is charged when it gets busy, but usually not for white faces.
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