Kathmandu

Kathmandu (Nepali: काठमाडौ) is the largest city and capital of Nepal and the namesake of the Kathmandu Valley. Once thought to be the fabled and inaccessible Shangri-La, Kathmandu is a fast-growing spot catering to a wide range of holiday types and budgets. As a result of considerable urban growth in recent decades, it is now part of one continuous urban area together with Patan to the south.

According to a census conducted in 2011, Kathmandu metropolis has 2.5 million inhabitants, and the agglomeration has a population of more than 3 million inhabitants. The metropolitan city area is 50.67 km² (19.56 sq mi) and has a population density of 3000 per km² and 17,000 per km square in the city proper.

The city stands at an elevation of approximately 1,400 metres (4,600 ft) in the bowl-shaped Kathmandu Valley of central Nepal. It is surrounded by four major mountains: Shivapuri, Phulchoki, Nagarjun, and Chandragiri. Kathmandu Valley is part of three districts (Kathmandu, Lalitpur, and Bhaktapur), has the highest population density in the country, and is home to about a twelfth of Nepal's population.

Historically, the Kathmandu Valley and adjoining areas were known as Nepal Mandala. Until the 15th century, Bhaktapur was its capital when two other capitals, Kathmandu and Lalitpur, were established. During the Rana and Shah eras, British historians called the valley "Nepal Proper". Today, Kathmandu is the capital of the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, and also the headquarters of the Central Development Region of Nepal. The Central Region comprises three zones: Bagmati, Narayani, and Janakpur. Kathmandu is located in the Bagmati Zone.

Kathmandu is the gateway to tourism in Nepal. It is also the nerve center of the country's economy. It has the most advanced infrastructure of any urban area in Nepal, and its economy is focused on tourism, which accounted for 3.8% of Nepal's GDP in 1995–96. Tourism in Kathmandu declined thereafter during a period of political unrest, but since then has improved. In 2013, Kathmandu was ranked third among the top 10 travel destinations on the rise in the world by TripAdvisor,and ranked first in Asia.

The city has a rich history, spanning nearly 2000 years, as inferred from inscriptions found in the valley. Religious and cultural festivities form a major part of the lives of people residing in Kathmandu. Most of Kathmandu's people follow Hinduism and many others follow Buddhism. There are people of other religious beliefs as well, giving Kathmandu a cosmopolitan culture. Nepali is the most commonly spoken language in the city. English is understood by Kathmandu's educated residents.

Kathmandu's sister cities (Lalitpur Patan) and Bhaktapur are integral to Kathmandu's cultural heritage, tourism industry, and economy; therefore UNESCO's World Heritage Site lists all three cities' monuments and attractions together under one heading, "Kathmandu Valley-UNESCO World Heritage Site".

Kathmandu Valley is in the Warm Temperate Zone of Nepal (elevation ranging from 1,200–2,300 metres (3,900–7,500 ft)), where the climate is fairly temperate, atypical for the region. This zone is followed by the Cool Temperate Zone with elevation varying between 2,100–3,300 metres (6,900–10,800 ft). Portions of the city with lower elevations have a humid subtropical climate, while portions of the city with higher elevations generally have a subtropical highland climate. In the Kathmandu Valley the average summer temperature varies from 28–30 °C (82–86 °F). The average winter temperature is 10.1 °C (50.2 °F).

The city generally has a climate with warm days followed by cool nights and mornings. Unpredictable weather is expected given temperatures can drop to 3 °C (37 °F) during the winter. During a 2013 cold front, the winter temperatures of Kathmandu dropped to −4 °C (25 °F), and the coldest temperature was recorded in January 10, 2013 at −9.2 °C (15.4 °F). Rainfall is mostly monsoon-based (about 65% of the total concentrated during the monsoon months of June to August), and decreases substantially (100 to 200 cm (39 to 79 in)) from eastern Nepal to western Nepal. Rainfall has been recorded at about 1,400 millimetres (55.1 in) for the Kathmandu valley, and averages 1,407 millimetres (55.4 in) for the city of Kathmandu. On average humidity is 75%.

• Nepal Tourism Board, Exhibition Rd (Right next to Bhrikuti Mandap Park (Bhrikutimandi), +977 1-4256909. Daily 07:00-19:00.

Nepal Tourism Board, Exhibition Rd (Right next to Bhrikuti Mandap Park (Bhrikutimandi), +977 1-4256909. Daily 07:00-19:00.

Kathmandu has several excellent museums and galleries, which are mostly located in the central area of the city. The city is also home to a large number of Buddhist and Hindu temples, monasteries, and sacred sites. In particular, Boudha and Swayambu are famous for Buddhist monasteries, while Durbar Square is the center of Hindu culture.

Kathmandu city itself has limited activities for visitors beyond the amazing sightseeing and general experience of being there.

• Mountain Flights. Most local airlines offer one hour flights over the Himalayas departing 06:30-09:00 from Kathmandu airport, costing USD197. Book in advance during the popular tourist season.

Mountain Flights. Most local airlines offer one hour flights over the Himalayas departing 06:30-09:00 from Kathmandu airport, costing USD197. Book in advance during the popular tourist season.

• Backstreet Academy, Kathmandu, +977 9818 421 646. A social enterprise tour platform that enables locals in developing countries to create their own tour or course. Check out their momos cooking course, mask carving, pottery, stone carving or dal bhat cooking courses, among many others on their website. Simply book on their website and a facilitator (usually a local university student) will arrive to pick you up for your course.
• Hidden Journeys Nepal, +977 981 803 9645. Organizes tours that take guests to visit and learn from Nepal's change makers, e.g., social entrepreneurs, artists, activists and other innovators. There are prearranged tours (usually 2 days including a networking session in the evening) on specific issues - or you can design your own.
• Volunteer Society Nepal, Kathmandu, +977 014992282. Based in an off-the-beaten-track neighbourhood in southeast Kathmandu, all volunteers are placed in local homestays and have the opportunity to use their skills to give back to the community. Volunteer work is personalised according to your ability, and you’ll be living as a part of the community you are helping. Learn to make momos, speak Nepali, dance, and all about modern Nepali culture from your host family, and give something back.

Backstreet Academy, Kathmandu, +977 9818 421 646. A social enterprise tour platform that enables locals in developing countries to create their own tour or course. Check out their momos cooking course, mask carving, pottery, stone carving or dal bhat cooking courses, among many others on their website. Simply book on their website and a facilitator (usually a local university student) will arrive to pick you up for your course.

Hidden Journeys Nepal, +977 981 803 9645. Organizes tours that take guests to visit and learn from Nepal's change makers, e.g., social entrepreneurs, artists, activists and other innovators. There are prearranged tours (usually 2 days including a networking session in the evening) on specific issues - or you can design your own.

Volunteer Society Nepal, Kathmandu, +977 014992282. Based in an off-the-beaten-track neighbourhood in southeast Kathmandu, all volunteers are placed in local homestays and have the opportunity to use their skills to give back to the community. Volunteer work is personalised according to your ability, and you’ll be living as a part of the community you are helping. Learn to make momos, speak Nepali, dance, and all about modern Nepali culture from your host family, and give something back.

Kathmandu and Dubar Square is the centre for many of Nepal's festivals. Note that many businesses are closed for all of these holidays—and often a few days before and after. Dasain in particular tend to shut down much of the city for October.

• Dashain (Dasain) Dashain, the most important of Nepal's religious festivals takes place over fifteen days, between September and October each year. Dashain celebrates all of the manifestations of the goddess Durga, it is marked by animal sacrifices and feasting. It serves to renew family and community ties. Due to many residents of Kathmandu returning home to their villages during Dashain, the city takes on a more peaceful atmosphere.
• Tihar, Festival of Lights (Also called Deepawali) A five day festival which takes place each year on the fifteenth day of Kartika, around the end of October/start of November, celebrated by all Hindus with ritual house-cleaning, lanterns, candles, and fireworks. The Nepali version tends to be more picturesque and less explosive than those celebrated in India.
• Holi is celebrated in March with splashes of water and colored powder that is both good luck and very messy.
• Bikram Sambat's New Year's (April) A day of pilgrimages (often from Kathmandu to the holy Bagamati river that separates it from Patan)
• Teej, the most important women's festival, is celebrated in September with married women dressed in their red marriage saris visiting male relatives and unmarried women and girls staying up all night to celebrate and pray for their future husbands.
• Indra Jatra Harvest festival held in Kathmandu's Dubar Square for 8 days each September. The Goddess Kumari is paraded in her sacred chariot.
• Himalayan Blues Festival, Kathmandu. Phone=+977-9841297451| Himalayan Blues Festival is one of the most acclaimed music festival in Kathmandu. It takes place in the months of October–November in Kathmandu. It boasts of having the best venues like the Garden of Dreams and Patan Museum. It also happens in many bars and different hotel venues. It features musicians from all around the world.

Dashain (Dasain) Dashain, the most important of Nepal's religious festivals takes place over fifteen days, between September and October each year. Dashain celebrates all of the manifestations of the goddess Durga, it is marked by animal sacrifices and feasting. It serves to renew family and community ties. Due to many residents of Kathmandu returning home to their villages during Dashain, the city takes on a more peaceful atmosphere.

Tihar, Festival of Lights (Also called Deepawali) A five day festival which takes place each year on the fifteenth day of Kartika, around the end of October/start of November, celebrated by all Hindus with ritual house-cleaning, lanterns, candles, and fireworks. The Nepali version tends to be more picturesque and less explosive than those celebrated in [[India]].

Holi is celebrated in March with splashes of water and colored powder that is both good luck and very messy.

Bikram Sambat's New Year's (April) A day of pilgrimages (often from Kathmandu to the holy Bagamati river that separates it from [[Patan]])

Teej, the most important women's festival, is celebrated in September with married women dressed in their red marriage saris visiting male relatives and unmarried women and girls staying up all night to celebrate and pray for their future husbands.

Indra Jatra Harvest festival held in Kathmandu's Dubar Square for 8 days each September. The Goddess Kumari is paraded in her sacred chariot.

Himalayan Blues Festival, Kathmandu. Phone=+977-9841297451| Himalayan Blues Festival is one of the most acclaimed music festival in Kathmandu. It takes place in the months of October–November in Kathmandu. It boasts of having the best venues like the Garden of Dreams and Patan Museum. It also happens in many bars and different hotel venues. It features musicians from all around the world.

The indigenous Newa population of Kathmandu have many festivals going on around the whole year.

• Mohani Nakha
• Sakimana Punhi
• Bala Chahre
• Yomari Punhi
• Disi Chahre
• Yenya Punhi
• Lhuti Punhi
• Sithi Nakha
• Sasuma Puja
• Swonti Nakha

Mohani Nakha

Sakimana Punhi

Bala Chahre

Yomari Punhi

Disi Chahre

Yenya Punhi

Lhuti Punhi

Sithi Nakha

Sasuma Puja

Swonti Nakha

There are many ATMs in Thamel, however, not all accept foreign cards. Most that do implement a charge of Rs500 per transaction; the only fee-free ATMs are (1) at the airport before immigration and (2) inside the gates of Kathmandu Guest House in Thamel. Standard Chartered Bank & Nabil Bank ATMs have the highest withdrawal limit of Rs35,000 per transaction. All shops will accept Nepali rupees and many will also accept US. Indian rupees are not often accepted and most merchants won't accept them.

Shopping malls are mostly found in the central area of the city, whereas Thamel is the home of bookshops. Traditional shops selling T-shirts, bags, and clothes are located between New Road and Chhetrapati, while shops selling religious items are mostly concentrated around Boudha.

• Thanka Buddhist paintings - Thanka are traditional Buddhist paintings available all over Nepal. Prices and quality can vary a great deal. Good sellers will be able to describe the provenance, meaning and history of your chosen thanka. You may also be able to watch thanka being created at some galleries. For example, one gallery near the Boudnath Stupa often has thanka trainees at work so you can see the kind of detail that goes into each painting.
• Statues - Hand crafted statues from Nepal are famous all over the world, especially metal statues of god and goddess such as Buddha and Tara. You can easily find various statue shops in Thamel, although the statues are mainly manufactured in the Patan area. If you want to get closer to the source, Patan is a good place to buy such items. Be aware of items that might be antiques. The Nepalese government does not permit real antiques older than 100 years to leave the country, so if you are unsure of the age of the item you're interested in it is advisable to get it checked and certified by the Department of Archaeology to avoid problems on your departure.
• Silver - Jewellers from Bangkok come to Kathmandu to buy wholesale silver with Indian-processed semiprecious gemstones. The wholesale price of silver is published on the front page of the "Himalayan" newspaper (1 tola= 11.6 g) so buyers know the cost of the metal in piece, apart from the labor cost. Silver is almost invariably near the stamped "92.5%" sterling, as claimed.
• Clothing - Kathmandu is a great place to shop for clothes or have existing clothes repaired or tailored. Flowing hippie gauzes, Monk's robes in saffrons and maroons, funky neon trance-wear, hemp clothing, dozens of elegant silks and 'suiting and shirting' are available in all qualities and prices. Tailors can be hired at reasonable fees and the quality of work is high. Handwoven Nepali fabrics cost Rs100-300/m and are available in endless patterns and colours. Anything, from bags to mountaineering equipment to cocktail dresses can be made to order and tailored to perfection. The alleys around Indra Chowk, between Thamel and Durbar Square, have dozens of fabric shops and tailors, much more dedicated to customer satisfaction than the hurried and expensive shops in Thamel. Bishal Bazaar near the corner of New Road and Durbar Square is a mall-like experience which also boasts several fabric shops and tailors. It is acceptable to buy fabric from one place and get it stitched in another. Expect to pay around Rs250 to stitch a Western-style men's/ladies' shirt. Feel free to take an existing item of clothing with you for the tailor to copy. Warning: if having clothes made to wear later at home, get measured before trekking if you want them to fit when you return to your normal size after your privations on the trekking trail!
• Carpets and rugs - Thamel has many carpet shops that have quality silk and wool carpets. Royal Collection (Shop 13, L.P. Jyoti Line) has a nice selection and good prices, after some aggressive price negotiations. Some places will charge a service fee on a purchase with a credit card, so make sure to clarify this during price negotiations.
• Cultural Artifacts - Beware that there are lots of counterfeits, sly salesmen, and plastics presented as wood. Most real antiques are illegal to export. Genuine antiquities may have been looted from temples. Patan is known for the quality of bronzes. Read the book "Shopping for Buddhas" by Jeff Greenwald for more information.
• Pashmina - Scarves and shawls can be purchased for a fraction of the price of those in Europe or North America. Look for those produced by charitable organisations such as the Tibetan refugee camp just outside Patan but be aware fakes are common and "pashmina" is not "cashmere".
• Electronics - Many people find Kathmandu a good place to buy a camera or other electronic device due to the lack of sales tax and import duty on electronics. There are shops in Thamel and around New Road.
• Bhat-Bhateni Supermarkets & Department Stores, +977-1-4419181.

ATMs often suffer from malfunctions and cash shortages, try to make withdrawals from ATMs attached to banks which are open.

• Bank of Asia, Saket Complex, Tripura Marg, (Tripureshwor Bus Stop.
• Century Commercial Bank, Hattisar Rd (Putali Sadak Bus Stop.
• Himalayan Bank, Karmachari Sanchaya Kosh Bldg, Tridevi Sadak.
• Nepal Bank Limited Central Office, Dharma Path, +977 1-4423375.
• Nepal Rastra Bank, Central Office, Baluwatar, +977 1-4410158, +977 1 4410201, +977 1 4411250, +977 1 4419804, +977 1 4419805, +977 1 4419807. Banking Office (address:Thapathali)

Bank of Asia, Saket Complex, Tripura Marg, (Tripureshwor Bus Stop.

Century Commercial Bank, Hattisar Rd (Putali Sadak Bus Stop.

Himalayan Bank, Karmachari Sanchaya Kosh Bldg, Tridevi Sadak.

Nepal Bank Limited Central Office, Dharma Path, +977 1-4423375.

Nepal Rastra Bank, Central Office, Baluwatar, +977 1-4410158, +977 1 4410201, +977 1 4411250, +977 1 4419804, +977 1 4419805, +977 1 4419807. Banking Office (address:Thapathali)

Thanka Buddhist paintings - Thanka are traditional Buddhist paintings available all over Nepal. Prices and quality can vary a great deal. Good sellers will be able to describe the provenance, meaning and history of your chosen thanka. You may also be able to watch thanka being created at some galleries. For example, one gallery near the Boudnath Stupa often has thanka trainees at work so you can see the kind of detail that goes into each painting.

Statues - Hand crafted statues from Nepal are famous all over the world, especially metal statues of god and goddess such as Buddha and Tara. You can easily find various statue shops in Thamel, although the statues are mainly manufactured in the [[Patan]] area. If you want to get closer to the source, [[Patan]] is a good place to buy such items. Be aware of items that might be antiques. The Nepalese government does not permit real antiques older than 100 years to leave the country, so if you are unsure of the age of the item you're interested in it is advisable to get it checked and certified by the Department of Archaeology to avoid problems on your departure.

Silver - Jewellers from Bangkok come to Kathmandu to buy wholesale silver with Indian-processed semiprecious gemstones. The wholesale price of silver is published on the front page of the "Himalayan" newspaper (1 tola= 11.6 g) so buyers know the cost of the metal in piece, apart from the labor cost. Silver is almost invariably near the stamped "92.5%" sterling, as claimed.

Clothing - Kathmandu is a great place to shop for clothes or have existing clothes repaired or tailored. Flowing hippie gauzes, Monk's robes in saffrons and maroons, funky neon trance-wear, hemp clothing, dozens of elegant silks and 'suiting and shirting' are available in all qualities and prices. Tailors can be hired at reasonable fees and the quality of work is high. Handwoven Nepali fabrics cost Rs100-300/m and are available in endless patterns and colours. Anything, from bags to mountaineering equipment to cocktail dresses can be made to order and tailored to perfection. The alleys around Indra Chowk, between Thamel and Durbar Square, have dozens of fabric shops and tailors, much more dedicated to customer satisfaction than the hurried and expensive shops in Thamel. Bishal Bazaar near the corner of New Road and Durbar Square is a mall-like experience which also boasts several fabric shops and tailors. It is acceptable to buy fabric from one place and get it stitched in another. Expect to pay around Rs250 to stitch a Western-style men's/ladies' shirt. Feel free to take an existing item of clothing with you for the tailor to copy. Warning: if having clothes made to wear later at home, get measured before trekking if you want them to fit when you return to your normal size after your privations on the trekking trail!

Carpets and rugs - Thamel has many carpet shops that have quality silk and wool carpets. Royal Collection (Shop 13, L.P. Jyoti Line) has a nice selection and good prices, after some aggressive price negotiations. Some places will charge a service fee on a purchase with a credit card, so make sure to clarify this during price negotiations.

Cultural Artifacts - Beware that there are lots of counterfeits, sly salesmen, and plastics presented as wood. Most real antiques are illegal to export. Genuine antiquities may have been looted from temples. [[Patan]] is known for the quality of bronzes. Read the book "Shopping for Buddhas" by Jeff Greenwald for more information.

Pashmina - Scarves and shawls can be purchased for a fraction of the price of those in Europe or North America. Look for those produced by charitable organisations such as the Tibetan refugee camp just outside [[Patan]] but be aware fakes are common and "pashmina" is not "cashmere".

Electronics - Many people find Kathmandu a good place to buy a camera or other electronic device due to the lack of sales tax and import duty on electronics. There are shops in Thamel and around New Road.

Bhat-Bhateni Supermarkets & Department Stores, +977-1-4419181.

The most important food in Kathmandu could be the indigenous Newa Food. There are hundreds of traditional newa delicacies, and can be found in bhatti (local restro) to cafes.

The most popular food in Kathmandu could be the momo, a dumpling which has its roots in Tibet and China. They are available fried or steamed and stuffed with buffalo, chicken, or veggies. Prices can vary depending on the location and what they are filled with, but expect to pay between Rs150-250 for a dozen. Kathmandu is also a good place to sample traditional Newari and Tibetan dishes.

A Nepali set meal will usually include rice, daal, vegetable/meat curry, a vegetable dish, pickle (achar) and curd. Expect to pay around NPR140-280 at a tourist place, much less at local places. Chiya, a milky spiced tea similar to the Indian chai, is ubiquitous and good for a break to calm one's nerves.

Note that most restaurants that cater to tourists will add a 10% service charge and then a 13% VAT charge (total of 24.5%) to the prices stated on the menu. These additional charges must be clearly stated on the menu. There are dozens of tourist restaurants clustered in Thamel serving everything from Middle Eastern to Mexican food. Indian and Nepali dishes are always the most authentic and economically priced.

In recent times, coffee culture has made major inroads into Kathmandu and cafes offering espresso based coffees are no longer limited to tourist areas, but can be found throughout the city. Himalayan Java is a major player in the coffee world in Nepal, and their chic cafes are popular with tourists and locals alike.

The indigenous Newa rice wine 'thon' and alcohol 'ayelaa is available in local restro. Beer and mixed drinks are available at almost every bar and restaurant. For a quick drink and cheap cultural experience, try the local 'Nepali wine' (raksi) or 'Nepali Beer' (chang) neither of which taste anything like their namesakes. Gorkha Beer, Everest Beer, Nepal Ice, San Miguel, Carlsberg, and Tuborg beer are the principal conventional beers served in Kathmandu. Local beers tend to be more reliable than the imports.

Canadian Consular Affairs, the UK Foreign and Commonwealth office, and the US State Department provide travel advice. Nepal is safe to visit but caution must be taken. After the Maoists joined the government in about 2006, Nepal become relatively peaceful and more stable. However, visitors should avoid public demonstrations and may want to register with their consulate on arrival. Although tourists haven't been directly targeted by politically motivated violence, it is possible to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. The frequent strikes, locally known as bandh or banda, that are still held on occasion, are a major inconvenience for most tourists as all transportation stops, and many shops and restaurants close. In the 10-day period leading up to the Constituent Assembly Elections in November 2013. During most of that time, very few public buses were operating so getting to the beginning of a trekking route immediately became very difficult.

Load-shedding (power cuts) during the dry season can make life in Nepal very difficult. Due to the lack of street lights, tourists should watch out for the double hazards of opportunistic crimes in the darkness, and tripping or twisting ankles when walking the uneven, unlit streets by night.

Following the news and government warnings is important. Be sure to check on current road conditions before leaving Kathmandu. As of April 2010, long-haul bus trips through the Eastern Terai were to be avoided as there was a risk of Maoist activity in this area. That seems to have improved but there were problems before and after the elections in November 2013 that could indicate a return to some degree of instability. Time will tell. There used to be reports of Maoists stopping buses and setting them alight, although allowing passengers to disembark first. Check daily newspapers for advance warning of planned strikes (bandh) when it may be better to stay away from the main roads in town.

While in Kathmandu, always keep an eye on belongings. Violent crime is rare; pickpockets are not, especially in crowded places. If your hotel room door doesn't have a good lock or safe windows, store valuables on your person or in a hotel safety deposit box at all times. As with any large city, avoid walking alone in unlit areas.

Avoid seeking help from random individuals on the streets who offer taking you to dance bars. There have been several cases of tourists ripped off once inside these dance bars.

• Air quality in Kathmandu is very poor after the earthquake, particularly around the ring road. Buying a dust mask is advisable.
• Water in Kathmandu borders on being lethal, and water borne diseases are rife. Do not, under any circumstances, drink from taps or consume salads and ice unless you are confident that the water used in their preparation has been filtered and boiled. Also, use boiled and filtered water for brushing teeth and avoid swallowing water when taking a shower. Circumstances may differ in private houses and the better hotels in Kathmandu. More concerning there have been a number of instances of bottled water companies not meeting minimum safety standards, purchase water in larger shops. Large gallon bottles of water are used in most local restaurants but there is no guarantee they haven't been re-filled.
• Food can be contaminated and some people suggest that you should eat only at larger restaurants. Counterfeit and out of date food and cigarettes are very common in local shops, check use-by dates before purchasing products.
• Homemade Alcohol (chang, roxi, three panni roxi, toongba) may contain methanol and is not recommended, drinking large amounts would be extremely unwise.
• Vaccinations for rabies, tetanus, typhoid, and hepatitis are recommended prior to arriving in Kathmandu, and can take several months to complete. Tropical diseases such as Japanese encephalitis should be vaccinated against if you plan to travel outside of the Kathmandu Valley, towards the lowlands in the Terai. You may wish to take a malarial prophylaxis. See Immunization advice for Nepal
• Animals, such as bats and monkeys (including those at Swayambhunath), may be carriers of rabies and other diseases. Even if you've had the foresight to be vaccinated for rabies prior arrival, treatment following possible exposure is still necessary to prevent infection. If you are bitten, you should go to a clinic immediately for treatment. No cases of avian influenza have been documented in Nepal, but it has been confirmed in nearby countries. Birds live in extremely close proximity to humans, both in the market and the home.
• Clinics & hospitals
  • Ciwec Clinic Travel Medicine Center caters to western visitors and the ex-pat community. It is one of the few places you can get health care at par with western countries in Kathmandu. Located centrally in Lazimpat, across from the British embassy. It is well equipped, but it costs USD50 just to be seen by a doctor.
  • Shechen Clinic, located in the overcrowded suburb of Baudha, is a hygienic and efficient place to receive medical attention. They have some very potent Tibetan medicine that is effective in the treatment of Travellers' diarrhea.
  • National Institute of Neurological and Allied Sciences, run by Dr Upendra Devkota, and is on par with some western hospitals.
  • Dent Inn offers international-standard service for dental problems at good prices.
  • Aashas Health Care provides finest dental and physiotherapy services at a very reasonable price.
  • Patan Hospital is definitely the best public hospital in Nepal. It also has a private clinic.
  • Bir Hospital has one of the few ENT departments in the country, but should otherwise be avoided. It is a government hospital, and is run down and chaotic at best.

Air quality in Kathmandu is very poor after the earthquake, particularly around the ring road. Buying a dust mask is advisable.

Water in Kathmandu borders on being lethal, and [[Tropical diseases|water borne diseases]] are rife. Do not, under any circumstances, drink from taps or consume salads and ice unless you are confident that the water used in their preparation has been filtered and boiled. Also, use boiled and filtered water for brushing teeth and avoid swallowing water when taking a shower. Circumstances may differ in private houses and the better hotels in Kathmandu. More concerning there have been a number of instances of bottled water companies not meeting minimum safety standards, purchase water in larger shops. Large gallon bottles of water are used in most local restaurants but there is no guarantee they haven't been re-filled.

Food can be contaminated and some people suggest that you should eat only at larger restaurants. Counterfeit and out of date food and cigarettes are very common in local shops, check use-by dates before purchasing products.

Homemade Alcohol (chang, roxi, three panni roxi, toongba) may contain methanol and is not recommended, drinking large amounts would be extremely unwise.

Vaccinations for rabies, tetanus, typhoid, and hepatitis are recommended prior to arriving in Kathmandu, and can take several months to complete. Tropical diseases such as Japanese encephalitis should be vaccinated against if you plan to travel outside of the Kathmandu Valley, towards the lowlands in the Terai. You may wish to take a malarial prophylaxis. See Immunization advice for Nepal

Animals, such as bats and monkeys (including those at Swayambhunath), may be carriers of rabies and other diseases. Even if you've had the foresight to be vaccinated for rabies prior arrival, treatment following possible exposure is still necessary to prevent infection. If you are bitten, you should go to a clinic immediately for treatment. No cases of avian influenza have been documented in Nepal, but it has been confirmed in nearby countries. Birds live in extremely close proximity to humans, both in the market and the home.

Clinics & hospitals

• Ciwec Clinic Travel Medicine Center caters to western visitors and the ex-pat community. It is one of the few places you can get health care at par with western countries in Kathmandu. Located centrally in Lazimpat, across from the British embassy. It is well equipped, but it costs USD50 just to be seen by a doctor.
• Shechen Clinic, located in the overcrowded suburb of Baudha, is a hygienic and efficient place to receive medical attention. They have some very potent Tibetan medicine that is effective in the treatment of [[Travellers' diarrhea]].
• National Institute of Neurological and Allied Sciences, run by Dr Upendra Devkota, and is on par with some western hospitals.
• Dent Inn offers international-standard service for dental problems at good prices.
• Aashas Health Care provides finest dental and physiotherapy services at a very reasonable price.
• Patan Hospital is definitely the best public hospital in Nepal. It also has a private clinic.
• Bir Hospital has one of the few ENT departments in the country, but should otherwise be avoided. It is a government hospital, and is run down and chaotic at best.

Most cafes & restaurants in tourist areas have free Wi-Fi for customers. Computer/internet rentals are almost stacked on top of each other in Thamel & near the stupa at Boudha. You can surf to your heart's content for Rs15-20 an hour (Rs10 in Putalisadak). Although not adequate for video conferencing the 128-256kbit/s NTC backbone often used by the cafes is more than adequate for VOIP calling. Please avoid downloading anything large, as most connections are limited. ISD and STD telephone services are available in almost all internet cafes. Services such as Skype are available in most tourist areas.

• Ncell. SIM cards are available from NCell for Rs100 and you will also need to show your passport and provide a passport photo. Recharge cards for NCell can be purchased almost everywhere. Look for the white and violet NCEll signs on the front of shops selling these cards. Data packages are also available. On some treks you will be in remote areas with no internet or phone service. Don't be surprised. Coverage in populated areas is good.
• General Post Office, Sundhara Kanti Path, +977 1-4227499.
• Nepal Telecom, +977 1-4210098. SIM cards of Nepal Telecom are available everywhere in Nepal for Rs100; you must show your passport or Nepali citizenship card and provide a passport photo. Recharge cards of Nepal Telecom can be purchased almost everywhere. Look for the blue tower sign board in front of shops. Data packages are also available for Nepal Telecom network. Coverage is better than other networks in Nepal.
• Nepal Telecom Central Office, Prithvi Path.

Ncell. SIM cards are available from NCell for Rs100 and you will also need to show your passport and provide a passport photo. Recharge cards for NCell can be purchased almost everywhere. Look for the white and violet NCEll signs on the front of shops selling these cards. Data packages are also available. On some treks you will be in remote areas with no internet or phone service. Don't be surprised. Coverage in populated areas is good.

General Post Office, Sundhara Kanti Path, +977 1-4227499.

Nepal Telecom, +977 1-4210098. SIM cards of Nepal Telecom are available everywhere in Nepal for Rs100; you must show your passport or Nepali citizenship card and provide a passport photo. Recharge cards of Nepal Telecom can be purchased almost everywhere. Look for the blue tower sign board in front of shops. Data packages are also available for Nepal Telecom network. Coverage is better than other networks in Nepal.

Nepal Telecom Central Office, Prithvi Path.

• Austria Austria (Honorary Consulate General), 22, Manakamana Marg, Nagpokhari, Naxal, +977 1 4434860. M 12:00-15:00, W 12:00-15:00, F 12:00-15:00.
• Australia Australia, Bansbari, +977 1 437 1678 (/1076/1466).
• Bangladesh Bangladesh, Basundhara 3, Ring Road (Opposite to NABIL Bank, Dhapashi Branch, +977 1-4390130.
• Belgium Belgium (Honorary), Bhagawan Bahal, Thamal Amrit Marg 643/26, +977 1 4418922, +977 1 4410330.
• United Kingdom British, Lainchour Marg (Right next to Indian Embassy, +977 1 441 0583, +977 1 441 4588.
• China China, Baluwater, +977 1 4411740.
• Denmark Denmark, 761 Neel Saraswati Marg, Lazimpat (North of the Bagmati river, +977 1 441 3010.
• Europe European Union, Uttardhoka Sadak, Lainchaur, +977 1 442 9445, +977 1 442 9446.
• Finland Finland, Bishalnagar, +977 1 4417 221, +977 1 4416-636. M-Th 08:00-16:15, F -13:15.
• Germany Germany, Gyaneshwar Marga 690, +977 1 441 27 86, +977 1 441 65 27, +977 1 441 66 55, +977 1 441 68 32. M-F 09:00-11:30.
• Greece Greece, 925, Thapathali, +977 1 222-050.
• India India, 336 Kapurdhara Marg, Lainchaur (North from British Embassy, 15 min walk from Thamel/Jythia, +977 1 4410900, +977 1 4414990, +977 1 4411699. The Indian visa centre is just before the embassy (09:30-12:00 for deposit; closed on Saturday, Sunday and public holidays). People start to queue 1-2 hr before opening usually. Rs700 for re-entry endorsement, Rs3600 for tourist visa up to 6 months, Rs1900 for transit visa.
• Israel Israel, Neel Sarswoti Marg.
• Japan Japan, Danida, Lazimpat (north of Shangri La luxury hotel, +977 1 4426-680. M-F 09:00-13:00/14:00-17:00.
• Russia, Baluwatar (Bus stop Baluwataar 300 m away, +977 1 441 2155, +977 1 441 1063. Emergency/Экстренный +977 980 104 7187
• United States United States, Maharajgunj Rd. (just S of the Narayan Chowk intersection with Ring Rd, +977 1-4234000. The entrance to the Consular Section is to the left of the main entrance.
• Switzerland Switzerland, Jawalakhel, Ekanta Kuna, Lalitpur, +977 1 554 92 25. M-F 10:00-12:00.

Austria Austria (Honorary Consulate General), 22, Manakamana Marg, Nagpokhari, Naxal, +977 1 4434860. M 12:00-15:00, W 12:00-15:00, F 12:00-15:00.

Australia Australia, Bansbari, +977 1 437 1678 (/1076/1466).

Bangladesh Bangladesh, Basundhara 3, Ring Road (Opposite to NABIL Bank, Dhapashi Branch, +977 1-4390130.

Belgium Belgium (Honorary), Bhagawan Bahal, Thamal Amrit Marg 643/26, +977 1 4418922, +977 1 4410330.

United Kingdom British, Lainchour Marg (Right next to Indian Embassy, +977 1 441 0583, +977 1 441 4588.

China China, Baluwater, +977 1 4411740.

Denmark Denmark, 761 Neel Saraswati Marg, Lazimpat (North of the Bagmati river, +977 1 441 3010.

Europe European Union, Uttardhoka Sadak, Lainchaur, +977 1 442 9445, +977 1 442 9446.

Finland Finland, Bishalnagar, +977 1 4417 221, +977 1 4416-636. M-Th 08:00-16:15, F -13:15.

Germany Germany, Gyaneshwar Marga 690, +977 1 441 27 86, +977 1 441 65 27, +977 1 441 66 55, +977 1 441 68 32. M-F 09:00-11:30.

Greece Greece, 925, Thapathali, +977 1 222-050.

India India, 336 Kapurdhara Marg, Lainchaur (North from British Embassy, 15 min walk from Thamel/Jythia, +977 1 4410900, +977 1 4414990, +977 1 4411699. The Indian visa centre is just before the embassy (09:30-12:00 for deposit; closed on Saturday, Sunday and public holidays). People start to queue 1-2 hr before opening usually. Rs700 for re-entry endorsement, Rs3600 for tourist visa up to 6 months, Rs1900 for transit visa.

Israel Israel, Neel Sarswoti Marg.

Japan Japan, Danida, Lazimpat (north of Shangri La luxury hotel, +977 1 4426-680. M-F 09:00-13:00/14:00-17:00.

Russia, Baluwatar (Bus stop Baluwataar 300 m away, +977 1 441 2155, +977 1 441 1063. Emergency/Экстренный +977 980 104 7187

United States United States, Maharajgunj Rd. (just S of the Narayan Chowk intersection with Ring Rd, +977 1-4234000. The entrance to the Consular Section is to the left of the main entrance.

Switzerland Switzerland, Jawalakhel, Ekanta Kuna, Lalitpur, +977 1 554 92 25. M-F 10:00-12:00.

Many airline companies have their offices on Hatisser road, about 20 min from north Thamel/Jyatha on foot, if you need to buy or change a ticket.

To extend your Nepal tourist visa, up to a maximum of 150 days per year, you need to visit the Nepal Immigration Office. Bring your passport, a passport photocopy and one passport sized photo (even though you've already given these details to get your original visa!). Visa extensions can only be bought per day, at a rate of USD2 a day, although you can pay in local currency. If you have questions, they speak quite good English .

TIMS card - to register for a Green TIMS card for independent hiking, you need to visit the Nepal Tourist Office either in Kathmandu or Pokhara. More information about TIMS, permits and entrance fees is described in Trekking in Nepal.

• Kathmandu Valley (Nepa Valley) is home to a number of sacred sites and historical cities.
  • Patan aka Lalitpur, Yala(native name), 7 km south of Thamel, across the Bagmati river, is one of the largest cities in Nepal. Patan Durbar Square is a UNESCO world heritage site, full of temples, statues, palaces & the must-see attraction of Patan Museum.
  • Kirtipur, aka Kipoo (native name), is one of the oldest settlements in the Kathmandu Valley. Located next to Patan.
  • Bhaktapur, Khwopa (native name)
  • Madhyapur Thimi
  • Khona is a Newa town in South of the valley. You can get a bus from Lagankhyo(native name) aka Lagankhel.
  • Bunga is a Newa town in South of the valley, near to Khona. You can get a bus from Lagankhyo(native name) aka Lagankhel.
• Buddhist Pilgrimage Sites
  • Swayambu (7 km NE of Kathmandu) is home to at least 29 Buddhist Monasteries & Nunneries & one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world, the Boudha Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built during the 5th century CE.
  • Namo Buddha is one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Nepal and one of the holiest in the world. It is known as the place where the Buddha, in a previous life as a prince, gave his body to a starving tigress and her cubs.
  • Pharping' a Buddhist sacred site - cave and other relics.
• Shivapuri Hill and the Bishnu Muhan (20 km N of Kathmandu) is a small spring from where river Bishnumati originates. Stay for a night at the Shivapuri Heights Cottage.
• Nagarkot (30 km E from Kathmandu, altitude: 2,000 m) is just the place for a quick getaway from the bustling capital for some relaxation and outdoor activities. It's an ideal location to watch the sunrise, but plan on leaving early, as traffic jams can happen anywhere and at anytime. The last 5 km of the trip is narrow, with lots of curves in the road. Car-sickness is a distinct possibility. The Club Himalaya Resort, located 3km outside of the village, has a great viewing point.
• Dhulikhel (30 km SE of Kathmandu) is a village that offers a nice quiet setting to wander the streets and see the 'non-tourist' side of Nepali life. Dhulikhel Lodge Resort is a nice place for lunch and a view of the mountains.
• Changunarayan (20 km E of Kathmandu) is a small village and home to the ancient temple of Changu Narayan which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Kathmandu Valley.
• Panauti (32 km SE of Kathmandu) is one of the oldest towns in Nepal, consisting of many temples dating back to the 15th century or earlier.
• Kakani (30 km SE of Kathmandu) is a settlement of 8,000 people famous for its strawberry farms.

[[Kathmandu Valley]] (Nepa Valley) is home to a number of [[Sacred sites of the Indian sub-continent|sacred sites]] and historical cities.

• [[Patan]] aka Lalitpur, Yala(native name), 7 km south of Thamel, across the Bagmati river, is one of the largest cities in Nepal. Patan Durbar Square is a UNESCO world heritage site, full of temples, statues, palaces & the must-see attraction of Patan Museum.
• [[Kirtipur]], aka Kipoo (native name), is one of the oldest settlements in the Kathmandu Valley. Located next to Patan.
• [[Bhaktapur]], Khwopa (native name)
• [[Madhyapur Thimi]]
• [[Khona]] is a Newa town in South of the valley. You can get a bus from Lagankhyo(native name) aka Lagankhel.
• [[Bunga]] is a Newa town in South of the valley, near to Khona. You can get a bus from Lagankhyo(native name) aka Lagankhel.

Buddhist Pilgrimage Sites

• [[Thamel and West Kathmandu|Swayambu]] (7 km NE of Kathmandu) is home to at least 29 Buddhist Monasteries & Nunneries & one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world, the Boudha Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built during the 5th century CE.
• [[Namo Buddha]] is one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Nepal and one of the holiest in the world. It is known as the place where the Buddha, in a previous life as a prince, gave his body to a starving tigress and her cubs.
• [[Pharping]]' a Buddhist sacred site - cave and other relics.

Shivapuri Hill and the Bishnu Muhan (20 km N of Kathmandu) is a small spring from where river Bishnumati originates. Stay for a night at the Shivapuri Heights Cottage.

[[Nagarkot]] (30 km E from Kathmandu, altitude: 2,000 m) is just the place for a quick getaway from the bustling capital for some relaxation and outdoor activities. It's an ideal location to watch the sunrise, but plan on leaving early, as traffic jams can happen anywhere and at anytime. The last 5 km of the trip is narrow, with lots of curves in the road. Car-sickness is a distinct possibility. The Club Himalaya Resort, located 3km outside of the village, has a great viewing point.

Dhulikhel (30 km SE of Kathmandu) is a village that offers a nice quiet setting to wander the streets and see the 'non-tourist' side of Nepali life. Dhulikhel Lodge Resort is a nice place for lunch and a view of the mountains.

[[Changunarayan]] (20 km E of Kathmandu) is a small village and home to the ancient temple of Changu Narayan which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Kathmandu Valley.

[[Panauti]] (32 km SE of Kathmandu) is one of the oldest towns in Nepal, consisting of many temples dating back to the 15th century or earlier.

[[Kakani]] (30 km SE of Kathmandu) is a settlement of 8,000 people famous for its strawberry farms.

Commercial domestic flights are available to/from Bhadrapur, Bhairawa, Bharatpur, Biratnagar, Dhangarhi, Janakpur, Nepalganj, Pokhara, Simara, and Tumling Tar. Domestic flights take about an hour and cost USD100-175. The primary domestic airlines are air viva, Yeti, Nepal Airlines, and Buddha Air. Buddha Air has a reputation among local expatriates as the safest domestic airline. Flights are typically delayed more later in the day and therefore it is better to take an early morning flight.

• Pokhara. (5–8 hours by bus, 40 minutes flight), is a pleasant little city on Phewa Lake. Many visitors use it as a hub for treks and adventure sports. The city is a popular destination for travelers and also features a bustling live music scene. Many daily 'tourist' buses depart 07:00 (be there at 06:00) from Jamal bus station, ticket Rs600 from driver, arrive Pokhara by 14:00, time varies depending on traffic. There are always seats available and you do not need to book beforehand at travel agents, who normally charge at least Rs700.
• Chitwan National Park is a popular place for safaris, complete with Elephant rides, rhino and tiger spotting, and jungle walks.
• Khumbu, near Mount Everest, is a short flight from Kathmandu and offers snow capped peaks and yak caravans carrying goods over mountain passes from Tibet.

[[Pokhara]]. (5–8 hours by bus, 40 minutes flight), is a pleasant little city on Phewa Lake. Many visitors use it as a hub for treks and adventure sports. The city is a popular destination for travelers and also features a bustling live music scene. Many daily 'tourist' buses depart 07:00 (be there at 06:00) from Jamal bus station, ticket Rs600 from driver, arrive Pokhara by 14:00, time varies depending on traffic. There are always seats available and you do not need to book beforehand at travel agents, who normally charge at least Rs700.

[[Chitwan National Park]] is a popular place for safaris, complete with Elephant rides, rhino and tiger spotting, and jungle walks.

[[Khumbu]], near Mount Everest, is a short flight from Kathmandu and offers snow capped peaks and yak caravans carrying goods over mountain passes from Tibet.