Kathmandu, the vibrant capital of Nepal, is a captivating city where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern life, rich culture, and breathtaking adventures. There are innumerable things to do in Kathmandu for both local and international tourists.
Nestled in the valley surrounded by the mighty Himalayas, the tourists here can visit the alluring temples, hike through national parks, taste local cuisines, and do a lot more to create life-time memories. In 2025, the city remains a top destination with its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality.
Whether you’re a history buff, adventure seeker, or spiritual traveller, Kathmandu offers an array of unforgettable experiences.
So, here are the 11 most exciting things to do in Kathmandu for your next trip;
Seek Blessing at the Pashupatinath Temple
One of the holiest Hindu temples in the world, the Pashupatinath temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Visiting this temple and seeking blessings here is one of the most important things to do in Kathmandu before you plan to do anything else. You can experience the daily rituals and evening aarti ceremonies at this temple, which feel completely majestic.
Explore Boudhanath Stupa
The largest stupa in the entire Nepal, the Boudhanath Stupa is a symbol of rich Buddhist culture. Located in the eastern outskirts of Kathmandu, this stupa overlooks the Boudha town, encompassing beauty and peace in a giant dome.
You can walk around the stupa alongside local monks, visit surrounding monasteries, observe Buddhist rituals, and enjoy a scenic view from a hotel near Boudhanath Stupa.
Discover the Culture of Durbar Square
A hub of cultural heritage and one of the most renowned UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Kathmandu Durbar Square is home to ancient palaces, courtyards, and temples.
This is one of the best places to visit in Kathmandu if you want to experience the local culture. The highlights of this area include the Hanuman Dhoka Palace Museum, the Living Goddess Kumari at Kumari Ghar, and the traditional Newari architecture.
Enjoy Nepali Cuisine at a Rooftop Restaurant in Kathmandu
Your trip to Kathmandu would be incomplete if you fail to try the authentic Nepali cuisine. And the best way to do that is to visit a rooftop restaurant in Kathmandu that serves lip-smacking Nepali delicacies with a subtle view of the entire city.
The Nepali cuisine consists of vibrant dishes that are rich in flavors and aromas. Once you try them, you will never forget their taste and will definitely come back to Kathmandu to enjoy them again.
Experience Rafting in Kathmandu Rivers
With the presence of rivers like the Trishuli River, the Seti River, the Bhote Koshi River, and the Sun Koshi River, Kathmandu is perfect for rafting experiences. With beautiful views and stunning flows, you can enjoy white-water rafting, kayaking, and other water-adventure activities like never before.
Whether you are a first-timer or have experience with river-rafting, your list of things to do in Kathmandu must include white water rafting trips in rivers nearby.
Go Shopping in Thamel
Kathmandu is not only about heritage sites and religious places. It is the home of hundreds of local artisans who create products that will leave you awestruck. To explore these products, you can visit the shops in Thamel.
One of the most visited tourist places in Kathmandu, Thamel is a street market that is popular for products like Pashmina, Thangkas, singing bowls, Khukuri, various eatables, and handicrafts.
Relax at Luxury Stays
When you are in Kathmandu, you might get tired of exploring the city, doing adventure activities, or visiting nearby places. To get rid of the tiredness and prepare for the next adventures, you can relax and rejuvenate at luxury stays in Kathmandu.
This will not be just a stay for you, but it is a whole, unique experience in itself. The luxurious hotels in Kathmandu offer unmatched comfort, serenity, and service that will make your trip more memorable.
Take a Stroll at Indra Chowk
If you are a shopaholic or someone who loves to buy souvenirs for friends or family, taking a stroll at Indra Chowk would be the best thing you can do. From bangles to shawls and many more, the endless shops in Indra Chowk have something for everyone.
Even if you don’t have to buy anything, Indra Chowk is one of the best places to see in Kathmandu, as the alleys represent a vivid heritage and culture of Nepal.
Sightseeing at ShivaPuri National Park
For nature lovers, avid bird watchers, and passionate wildlife photographers, the ShivPuri National Park in Kathmandu is no less than a blessing.
With thousands of flora and fauna species, scenic water streams, and a calming environment, the ShivPuri National Park offers the best Kathmandu sightseeing experience. Also, this national park is the home of more than 850 bird species.
Take Part in Local Cultural Events
If you want to experience the Nepali culture to its roots, nothing is better than being a part of local cultural events, happening all around in Kathmandu.
The city celebrates every festival, every event generously, and tourists are always welcome to experience them. You can be a part of a local marriage ceremony in a nearby banquet hall to experience a larger-than-life celebration or watch a Buddhist ritual at a local monastery; every event will give you a unique experience.
Do the Everest Base Camp Trek
Last but not least, doing a trek to the Everest Base Camp has to be on the list of every tourist visiting Nepal. Kathmandu is where most of these treks start from, so you can be a part of them easily while being in the city.
Mount Everest is one of the most mesmerizing places to visit in Kathmandu, and you cannot afford to miss this once-in-a-lifetime experience while being here. With this trek, you can see the inner beauty of Nepal for sure!
Things to do in Kathmandu: The Endless List
Kathmandu is not just a vivid city; it is a perfect blend of timeless heritage and modern experiences. From ancient temples for religious visitors to breathtaking landscapes for passionate adventurers, and luxury stays for excited travelers, Kathmandu has something for everyone in 2025.
Along with the ten exciting activities we have mentioned, there are a lot of unique things to do in Kathmandu that will make your list endless. So make sure you choose the best, plan accordingly, and stay prepared before you visit this enchanting capital city on your trip to Nepal.
