10 Best Attractions in Kathmandu, Nepal for First-Time Travellers

Kathmandu is a city where every corner tells a story. From sacred temples and bustling squares to living traditions that are centuries old, it offers travellers an immersive encounter with Nepal’s spiritual and cultural heart.

If you are planning your first trip and wondering about the best places to visit in Kathmandu, these are the top attractions that blend history, spirituality, and everyday life.

Read more: Exploring the Best Museums in Kathmandu, Nepal

Table of Content

1. Kathmandu Durbar Square
2. Boudhanath Stupa
3. Swayambhunath Stupa
4. Pashupatinath Temple
5. Kumari Temple
6. Hanuman Dhoka
7. Kasthamandap
8. Thamel
9. National Museum of Nepal
10. Narayanhiti Palace Museum

10 Best Attractions in Kathmandu, Nepal for First-Time Travellers

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Kathmandu Durbar Square is the cultural epicentre of the city. Once the royal palace courtyard, it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with temples, shrines, and intricate wooden architecture. Travellers can explore Hanuman Dhoka Palace, courtyards used for coronations, and marvel at the Newar artistry that defines the valley’s heritage.

Visiting at dusk allows you to see the square come alive with local devotees, street vendors, and traditional ceremonies. Buy a ticket valid for multiple entries in a day so you can return for both day and night experiences.

Durbar Square is a highlight of any sightseeing journey through Kathmandu.

 

Boudhanath Stupa

One of the world’s largest stupas, Boudhanath is a pilgrimage site for Tibetan Buddhists. Its massive white dome and the all-seeing eyes of Buddha make it an unforgettable landmark. The kora, or ritual walk around the stupa, is a practice shared by monks, pilgrims, and visitors alike.

Circled by monasteries, teahouses, and shops selling prayer flags and thangkas, Boudhanath is a serene yet vibrant place to learn about Buddhist traditions. The best time to visit is in the late afternoon, when the stupa glows under prayer lamps lit by devotees.

Boudhanath Stupa is a sacred haven for spiritual seekers in Kathmandu

 

Swayambhunath Stupa

Perched on a hill overlooking the city, Swayambhunath is one of Kathmandu’s oldest and most sacred sites. A climb up the steep stairway rewards you with panoramic views and a complex that blends Hindu and Buddhist influences.

The fluttering prayer flags, shrines, and mischievous monkeys create an atmosphere of both devotion and curiosity. If you wish to avoid the long staircase, the western entrance offers an easier slope.

Swayambhunath Stupa is the famous Monkey Temple in Kathmandu

 

Pashupatinath Temple

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Pashupatinath is Nepal’s holiest Hindu temple and a place of deep cultural significance. Located along the Bagmati River, it is where cremation ceremonies are held in the open. While this can feel confronting, it is a profound reminder of life’s impermanence and the spiritual role of the temple in Nepali society. 

Only Hindus may enter the main temple, but the surrounding ghats and smaller shrines offer plenty for travellers to observe and learn. Dress modestly, be discreet with photography, and approach the site with respect.

Pashupatinath Temple is a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site in Kathmandu

 

Kumari Temple Kathmandu

In the heart of Durbar Square lies the residence of the Kumari, the Living Goddess of Kathmandu. This unique tradition selects a young girl as the physical embodiment of divine energy until she reaches puberty.

Travellers may catch a glimpse of the Kumari from the temple window, though photographs are not permitted. The temple itself is a fine example of traditional wood carving and artistry, and a reminder of Kathmandu’s living heritage where ancient rituals are still practised.

Read also: Inside the Secret World of Kumari: Nepal Living Goddess

Kumari Temple in Kathmandu is the home of the Living Goddess

Hanuman Dhoka

Hanuman Dhoka was once the royal palace of the Malla kings and later the Shah dynasty. Its name comes from the statue of Hanuman, the monkey god, that guards the entrance. Inside, you will find intricately carved courtyards, museums, and historical artefacts that provide insight into Kathmandu’s royal past. The Nasal Chowk courtyard, where coronations of Nepali monarchs once took place, is especially worth seeing.

Hanuman Dhoka is the royal palace and museum in Kathmandu

Kasthamandap

Kasthamandap is a historic wooden pavilion said to be built entirely from a single tree. It is not only an architectural marvel but also the origin of Kathmandu’s name. Though damaged in the 2015 earthquake, restoration efforts have brought back much of its former grandeur. The site remains a powerful symbol of the city’s resilience and craftsmanship.

 

Thamel Kathmandu

Thamel is a lively neighbourhood where tradition and modern travel culture converge. Known for its labyrinth of alleys, it offers handicraft shops, traditional music venues, and authentic Nepali eateries alongside modern cafes.

While popular with backpackers, Thamel is also a place to experience the pulse of the city after dark, with its colourful lights and vibrant street life. Bargaining is expected in local shops, but always with warmth and good humour.

Thamel in Kathmandu is the lively heart of the city

 

National Museum of Nepal

For a deeper understanding of Nepal’s history, the National Museum in Chhauni is an essential stop. It houses Buddhist art, weaponry, and artefacts that trace the country’s journey through time. The museum offers context to many of the cultural practices and monuments travellers encounter across Kathmandu, making it an important addition to any Kathmandu sightseeing itinerary.

 

Narayanhiti Palace Museum

Once the residence of Nepal’s monarchy, Narayanhiti Palace has been converted into a museum that preserves modern history. Visitors can walk through lavish halls, banquet rooms, and private quarters, while learning about the events that shaped Nepal in the 20th century. The palace grounds also serve as a reflective space on Nepal’s transition from monarchy to republic.

Kathmandu is more than a stopover to the Himalayas. The city itself is rich with sightseeing opportunities, offering travellers both sacred heritage and vibrant street life. From ancient palaces to towering stupas, each site carries its own story. If you are searching for the most meaningful things to do in Kathmandu, these attractions will connect you with the spirit of the city and its enduring traditions.