Flights To Kathmandu Guide

Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) is the main airport serving flights from the UK to Kathmandu, Nepal. It serves as the primary entry and exit point for foreign flights into and out of Nepal and is the only airport of its kind in Kathmandu. An 11- to 12-hour direct flight usually takes place from the UK to Kathmandu. However, the majority of flights have a number of layovers and do not operate directly, which can extend the overall travel time to 16 hours or longer. Major airlines that facilitate this operation include British Airways, Qatar Airways, Emirates, Turkish Airlines, Air India, and Etihad Airways.

Woking Travel provides transfer services for passengers’ transit from the airport to their accommodation. Check out Transfers-Woking Travel to book your transfer today!

Kathmandu offers a range of accommodations catering to various tastes and budgets. To check out more hotel options, browse through Hotels-Woking Travel and to explore our packages, follow up with Packages-Woking Travel. Here’s a curated list of accommodation options:

1. The Everest Hotel: With views of the majestic Himalayas, The Everest Hotel combines luxury with cultural aesthetics. The rooftop restaurant is known for its panoramic view of Kathmandu Valley and offers a unique dining experience.
   
   
2. Dwarika’s Hotel: Renowned for its traditional Nepalese palace architecture, Dwarika’s Hotel offers an immersive experience of Nepal’s rich heritage. Includes a museum-like ambiance with ancient artefacts and a courtyard that hosts classical music evenings.
   
   
3. Hotel Traditional Comfort: Offering a blend of modern amenities and traditional Nepali architecture, this boutique hotel stands out for its commitment to sustainability and promoting local art through decor and design.
   
   
4. Baber Mahal Vilas: The cultural essence of the Rana period palaces is captured at Baber Mahal Vilas. The personalised experiences feature traditional cooking classes and private courtyards that mirror Nepal’s royal history.
   
   
5. Kathmandu Madhuban Guest House: Located in the heart of Thamel, this guest house stands out for its affordability without compromising on comfort. The friendly, family-run service and a rooftop terrace that showcases Kathmandu’s skyline.
   
   
6. Fireflies Hostel: This hostel offers a vibrant community atmosphere for backpackers and solo travellers. Engaging social events include local music nights and group treks, encouraging guests to connect and share experiences.
   
   
7. Hyatt Regency Kathmandu: A luxurious 5-star hotel, Hyatt Regency Kathmandu is set on 37 acres of landscaped grounds and offers an oasis of tranquillity. The hotel features elegant rooms, a spa, a casino, and multiple dining options. 
   
   
8. Gokarna Forest Resort: Nestled within the serene Gokarna Forest, this resort offers a unique blend of nature and luxury. The resort features a golf course, a spa with traditional Ayurvedic treatments, and elegant rooms with forest views. 
   
   
9. Hotel Shanker: Housed in a 19th-century palace, Hotel Shanker offers a blend of historic charm and modern comfort. Located near Thamel, the hotel features a swimming pool, a well-maintained garden, and rooms adorned with traditional Nepali decor. 
   
   
10. Aria Boutique Hotel & Spa: Aria Boutique Hotel & Spa provides a comfortable stay with a focus on personalised service. The hotel offers modern rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a spa that specialises in rejuvenating treatments.

Navigating Kathmandu’s eclectic streets can be both an adventure and a challenge. Here are some popular modes of transport that can help you explore the city comfortably:

• Taxis: Readily available around the city, taxis are a convenient way to get around. Ensure to negotiate the fare before starting your trip, as metres are often not used.
• Rickshaws: For shorter distances, especially around the Thamel area and Durbar Square, pedal rickshaws offer a slower-paced but more immersive street-level view of Kathmandu.
• Local Buses: An inexpensive way to travel, local buses connect various parts of the city. They can get crowded, but they offer a genuine local experience.
• Motorcycle Rental: For the more adventurous, renting a motorcycle can provide the flexibility to explore Kathmandu and its surroundings at your own pace.
• Private Car Hire: For a more comfortable and hassle-free experience, consider hiring a private car with a driver. This is especially beneficial for day trips outside the city or exploring multiple sites in one day.
  
  

Getting around Kathmandu is an adventure in itself. From the city’s dense traffic to the winding alleys, transportation needs to be chosen with care. Depending on your itinerary, various modes of transport, such as microbuses, taxis, and even cycle rickshaws, can serve you well.

To guide you on your Kathmandu jaunt, we have compiled a list of the city’s top destinations that are not to be missed. Whether you’re seeking history, adventure, or simply a moment of tranquillity, these locales have something unique to offer.

1. Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple): The Swayambhunath Stupa stands atop a serene hill overlooking the Kathmandu Valley and is a beacon of spiritual significance for both Buddhists and Hindus. The stupa itself, adorned with the watchful eyes of Buddha and the bustling lives of the red-faced monkeys around its premises, creates a harmonious yet dynamic atmosphere.
   
   
2. Durbar Squares of Kathmandu: These UNESCO World Heritage Sites are an homage to Kathmandu’s rich Newari architecture. Old royal palaces, intricately carved windows, and various deities that watch over the thriving community are testaments to Nepal’s artistic heritage.
   
   
3. Pashupatinath Temple Complex: This sprawling temple complex on the banks of the Bagmati River is the most significant Hindu shrine in Kathmandu. It is a centre of pilgrimage and the stage for vibrant rituals that celebrate life and honour the afterlife.
   
   
4. Patan Durbar Square (Lalitpur): Formerly the palace residence of the Malla kings and a centre for arts and crafts, the square is now a living museum of Newari culture. This architectural marvel is also famous for traditional Newari cuisine and local delicacies.
   
   
5. Boudhanath Stupa: A hub for Tibetan Buddhism, this spiritual enclave is one of the largest stupas in the world. It’s surrounded by monasteries and markets that cater to the Tibetan community and is a place for quiet contemplation and reflection.
   
   
6. Garden of Dreams: A serene retreat from the city’s bustle, The Garden of Dreams is an oasis of calm. Its immaculate gardens, Neoclassical pavilions, and exquisite architecture offer a poignant contrast to the traditional ambiance of the city.
   
   
7. Changu Narayan Temple: This ancient Hindu temple is a distinguished example of pagoda architecture and a historical treasure that dates back to the Licchavi period. It is known for its intricate carvings, especially the Vishnu Vaikuntha depiction.
   
   
8. Bhaktapur Durbar Square: Bhaktapur, the third of the durbar squares in the Kathmandu Valley, is a preserved heritage site that transports you back to mediaeval times. Stroll its cobblestone streets and immerse yourself in its timeless charm.
   
   
9. Indra Chowk (Market Square): A vibrant marketplace in the heart of Kathmandu, Indra Chowk is a kaleidoscope of local life. It’s a place not only for shopping but also for witnessing Kathmandu in motion every day, filled with the hum of commerce and community.
   
   
10. Kumari Ghar: Home to the living goddess Kumari, this intricately carved edifice is a place of reverence and curiosity. Witnessing the divine selection process and catching a glimpse of the Kumari from outside her window is a unique and humbling experience.

Here are ten top restaurants in Kathmandu that offer exquisite food:

1. Krishnarpan at Dwarika’s Hotel: Krishnarpan, a restaurant that specialises in traditional Nepali food, provides multi-course cuisines that highlight the country’s rich culinary history and create an immersive dining experience.

2. The Old House: The Old House, set in a quaint colonial-style building, features an assortment of Asian and European delicacies. The eatery is well-known for its modern and classic menu items as well as its tranquil garden sitting.
   
   
3. Rox Restaurant at Hyatt Regency Kathmandu: A sophisticated restaurant with a wide selection of foreign cuisine, Rox Restaurant is particularly well-known for its wood-fired pizzas and grilled specialities.
   
   
4. The Chimney at Hotel Yak & Yeti: The Chimney is a renowned restaurant serving a blend of Continental, Indian, and Nepali cuisine, and is recognised for its famous smoked meals.
   
   
5. Bhojan Griha: Bhojan Griha, a 150-year-old historic building, provides authentic Nepalese cuisine in a cultural setting for a traditional dining experience.
   
   
6. Le Sherpa: Le Sherpa, well-known for its farm-to-table philosophy, provides a menu influenced by European cuisine with a focus on locally grown, fresh ingredients.
   
   
7. Trisara: A hip place with a lively atmosphere and an innovative menu, Trisara serves an eclectic fusion of Asian and Western fare, and its rooftop seating gives fantastic city views.
   
   
8. Third Eye Restaurant: Third Eye, a restaurant with a focus on Indian and Nepalese food with a wide selection of tandoori and curry dishes, is situated in the busy Thamel district.
   
   
9. Fire and Ice Pizzeria: Fire and Ice Pizzeria has become a beloved establishment in Kathmandu, known for its authentic Italian pizzas. It’s been a favourite with locals and foreigners for years.
   
   
10. Garden of Dreams Café: Located in the tranquil Garden of Dreams, this café offers a variety of international and Nepali dishes, with an emphasis on fresh, healthful selections.

A trip to Kathmandu is an opportunity to experience life in its myriad forms. Here are ten must-do activities that will give you an authentic and fulfilling Kathmandu experience.

1. Participate in a Thangka Workshop: Take a Thangka painting workshop and learn about this ancient art form that combines painting and embroidery. Thangkas are traditional Tibetan and Nepalese meditation tools, and learning to create them allows you a deeper understanding of their spiritual significance.
   
   
2. Attend a Classical Music Concert: Kathmandu’s deep ties to the arts are prominently showcased through its music scene. Attend a classical music concert and immerse yourself in the melodious tunes of Sitars, Tablas, and Sarangis that echo the traditions of classical music of the Indian subcontinent.
   
   
3. Taste Local Street Foods: The spicy and savoury flavours of Kathmandu’s street food are an adventure for the palate. Indulge in momos—Nepalese dumplings—or relish in the burst of taste from authentic Newari cuisine. Eat where the locals eat for an authentic culinary experience.
   
   
4. Shop for Treasures at Kathmandu’s Markets: Kathmandu’s markets are treasure troves for the eclectic shopper. Browse through the stalls for vibrant fabrics, intricate jewellery, and a myriad of local hand-crafted goods. Haggle with the vendors or simply take in the colours and energy of these bustling bazaars.
   
   
5. Volunteer for a Local Cause: Contribute to the community by volunteering for a local cause. Organisations in Kathmandu often welcome help in areas like conservation, education, and healthcare. It’s a great way to give back and gain a deeper perspective on the Nepalese way of life.
   
   
6. Take a Yoga and Meditation Course: Hone your spiritual practice in the birthplace of the Buddha. Enrol in a yoga and meditation course that ranges from beginner classes to intensive retreats, and discover peace in Kathmandu’s serene sanctuaries.
   
   
7. Experience a Local Festival: Festivals in Kathmandu are vibrant spectacles that bring the community together. Experience the city’s zest for life by participating in Holi, Dashain, or Tihar, and witness the city come alive with religious rites, traditional ceremonies, and colourful celebrations.
   
   
8. Learn about Mountain Religion and Culture: Visit the International Mountain Museum to learn about the culture and lifestyles of the mountainous people of Nepal. The museum’s exhibits and educational programs offer rich insights into the Sherpa, Gurung, and other ethnic communities that call the hills home.
   
   
9. Trek to a Himalayan Viewpoint: For a taste of the majestic Himalayas, trek to one of the many viewpoints around Kathmandu. The trails offer stunning panoramas of snow-capped peaks and a sense of the grandeur that has called travellers for generations.
   
   
10. Indulge in a Spa Day: After the exhilaration of exploring, pamper yourself with a rejuvenating spa day. Kathmandu offers a range of Ayurvedic treatments, traditional massage, and wellness therapies that heal and revitalise the body and mind.

Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Here’s a breakdown of the weather in Kathmandu throughout the year:

Spring (March to May)

• Temperature: 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F)
• Weather: Kathmandu experiences a nice spring with sunny skies and moderate temperatures. It’s the perfect time of year for outdoor activities and city exploration.
• Rain: Pre-monsoon showers can occur towards the end of May.
  
  

Summer/Monsoon (June to September)

• Temperature: 18°C to 30°C (64°F to 86°F)
• Weather: The scorching, humid summers in Kathmandu are a feature of the season. June marks the start of the monsoon season, which brings with it a lot of rain, particularly in July and August.
• Rain: Kathmandu receives the majority of its annual rainfall during these months.
  
  

Autumn (October to November)

• Temperature: 10°C to 28°C (50°F to 82°F)
• Weather: One of the greatest seasons to visit Kathmandu is in the autumn, when there are bright skies, comfortable temperatures, and low humidity. 
• Rain: Rainfall is minimal during this period.
  
  

Winter (December to February)

• Temperature: 2°C to 20°C (36°F to 68°F)
• Weather: In general, Kathmandu experiences chilly, dry winters. Although it is usually moderate during the day, it can get very cold at night.
• Rain: There is little to no rainfall during the winter months.
  
  

To know more about the live weather conditions in Kathmandu, please refer to the Kathmandu Weather Forecast.

Kathmandu operates on Nepal Time (NPT), which is UTC+5:45 year-round.

• GMT to Nepal Time (NPT): Kathmandu is 5 hours and 45 minutes ahead of GMT.
• BST to Nepal Time (NPT): Kathmandu is 4 hours and 45 minutes ahead of BST.

Currency:

• The Nepalese rupee (NPR) is Nepal’s official currency. Currency exchange services are available at the airport, banks, and various exchange counters throughout Kathmandu.
  
  

Language:

• Nepali is the official language of Nepal, widely spoken in Kathmandu. English is commonly used in tourist areas.

Local Customs:

Kathmandu locals greet with a respectful “Namaste,” accompanied by pressing palms together, and it’s customary to remove shoes before entering homes or temples as a sign of respect. Traditional dress, modest behaviour, and showing reverence to elders and religious sites are highly valued. Nepalese culture is steeped in tradition and respect. Learn a few key phrases in Nepali, be mindful of local customs, and always seek permission before taking photographs, especially at religious sites.

Laws:

To learn more about the laws pertaining to travellers in Kathmandu, please refer to the following websites:

• UK Travel Advice-Kathmandu
• Nepal Tourism Board

Your flights to Kathmandu mark not just a geographical transition but a transformation into a world of adventure, spirituality, and cultural discovery. With Woking Travel, your Kathmandu experience is just a booking away. Pack your spirit of exploration, and get ready to uncover the wonders of this time-honoured city. Book your flights today and take the first step towards a Kathmandu adventure that will stay etched in your memories forever.

Ready to embark on your unforgettable adventure to Kathmandu? Don’t wait any longer! Book your flight with Woking Travel today and experience the ease and convenience of our all-encompassing travel services. From the bustling streets of Thamel to the serene heights of the Himalayas, your Kathmandu story is just a click away.

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