Things to Do in Nepal on a Budget: Activities Under $750

kathmandu food tour

1 Days

kathmandu food tour

$30

5.0(8 reviews)

Kathmandu Food Tour is one of the most exciting things for your taste buds. It lets you explore Nepal’s rich food diversity. You will visit famous food spots and try traditional Nepali dishes like Chhoila, Sekuwa, and Momo, which will please your tastebuds and remain forever in your heart and mind. These foods have special flavors and tell stories about the history and traditions of Kathmandu. During this tour adventure, you will walk through busy markets and small local restaurants while enjoying tasty food and learning about the ingredients and cooking styles. Kathmandu Food Tour offers you a variety of food to try, each with unique flavors. They tell tales of Kathmandu’s past and customs. Beyond just getting the mouthwatering cuisine experience, you will also learn to sample street food and observe the preparation of Nepali cuisine. This tour will give you a wonderful taste of local food in Kathmandu, regardless of your preference for food or your desire to try something new.

Patan and Bhaktapur Tour

1 Days

Patan and Bhaktapur Tour

$32

The Patan and Bhaktapur tour is an 8Hours full day trip offered by Himalayan 360, where a knowledgeable local guide will show you the main sights and cultural highlights of the two historic cities of Nepal – Patan and Bhaktapur. The tour starts at 9:00 AM and finishes around 5:00 PM. You will spend half a day in Patan and half a day in Bhaktapur, exploring the best cultural and historical sights. The tour to Patan and Bhaktapur is a perfect way to explore the ancient cities of Nepal, learn about local traditions, and enjoy the stunning art and architecture that has lasted for centuries. Bhaktapur is an ancient city full of history and culture. You can see old temples, beautiful ponds, traditional pottery, weaving, and unique wooden windows. Walking through Bhaktapur feels like stepping back in time, as the city still preserves its old customs, architecture, and way of life. Bhaktapur Durbar Square is the main attraction of Bhaktapur. Patan, also called Lalitpur or Yala, is known as the “City of Beauty.” It is famous for its exquisite art, temples, palaces, and intricate craftsmanship in wood and metal. Patan is also the heart of Newari culture. Patan Durbar Square is one of the major highlights of Patan, which features historic palaces and temples that showcase the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Chandragiri and Monkey Temple Tour

1 Days

Chandragiri and Monkey Temple Tour

$33

The Chandragiri and Monkey Temple tour is one of the best day trips you can do while staying in Kathmandu. You get to explore two famous hilltops: the Monkey Temple (Swayambhunath Stupa) and Chandragiri Hill. This day tour promises an enriching experience blending cultural heritage with stunning Himalaya views. At first, the trip begins towards Chandragiri Hill by cable car. You’ll enjoy a relaxing ride on the Chandragiri Cable Car. The cable car glides smoothly over pine forests and offers serene views of green hills, the Kathmandu Valley, and the Himalayan range. The ride is safe, reliable, and comfortable, with backup power and emergency services in place. At the top of Chandragiri Hill, you can visit the Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple, enjoy fresh mountain air, and soak in the quiet surroundings. Next, you visit the Swayambhunath, also known as Monkey Temple. It is one of the oldest and most important religious sites in Nepal, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is sacred to both Buddhists and Hindus. To reach the top, you walk up a steep stone staircase decorated with colorful prayer flags. While walking, you’ll see playful monkeys, old shrines, and statues. At the top, the shrines and temples shine brightly, and you can see the whole Kathmandu Valley. This Chandragiri Cable Car with Monkey Temple day tour is easy, fun, and perfect for everyone, including families, kids, and older travelers, as it combines a short spiritual walk or day hike with a comfortable cable car ride. It’s a great way to enjoy both the cultural side of Kathmandu and Nepal’s natural and cultural beauty in a single day.

Nagarkot Sunrise and Hike to Changunarayan Temple Day Tour

1 Days

Nagarkot Sunrise and Hike to Changunarayan Temple Day Tour

$48

If walking on a purpose means reaching a temple after sweating on a hill, then the Nagarkot Changunarayan hike is the perfect choice. This trek connects Nagarkot (a hilltop viewpoint) with the Changunarayan Temple, the oldest Hindu Temple in Nepal. It is a short and easy hike combined with nature, history, and culture in one journey. From Nagarkot, the route offers views of the Himalayan peaks like Langtang Lirung (7,227M), Ganesh Himal (7,422M), Dorje Lakpa (6,966M), and, on clear days, even Mount Everest (8,848.86M). You’ll pass popular villages like Telkot and Tamulkharka Village with the views of the Indrawati River and Bhaktapur Valley. This trek also introduces you to local Newari and Tamang settlements. Festivals like Dashain, Tihar, and the Bisket Jatra of Bhaktapur add color and tradition during the celebrated month. The Changunarayan Temple itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its ancient Licchavi King Manadeva’s Inscription (464 AD). The route lies close to Shivapuri National Park and is fully open with improved paths after the 2015 earthquake. We also provide a tour guide for your safety, and the trail is safe for solo and group hikers. If you are short on time but want a trek that offers culture, heritage, and mountain views together, then this is the trek you’re looking for.

Kathmandu Day Tour

1 Days

Kathmandu Day Tour

$37

5.0(7 reviews)

A Kathmandu day tour is a memorable journey that offers a unique glimpse of the richness of the Kathmandu Valley. From the World UNESCO Heritage Site of Durbar Squares with ancient architecture and art to one of the largest stupas in the world and a well-renowned monkey temple, the journey offers an all-in-one experience within a day. Moreover, the day tour to Kathmandu is an ideal option for trekkers who want to experience one of Nepal’s prominent cities’ cultural richness within a short period of time. The Kathmandu Valley is a single UNESCO World Heritage property made up of seven monument zones. Kathmandu is the prominent hub for Nepal’s history, art, and culture while maintaining modernization. Likewise, the city has a multi-ethnic population and is known for celebrating the country’s highest number of jatras (festivals). Whether travelers pass through the sacred Swayambhunath and Bouddhanath or the historic Durbar Squares, the Kathmandu Day Tour is a journey through its richness through time, spirituality, and the country’s identity.

UNESCO Heritage Day Tour

1 Days

UNESCO Heritage Day Tour

$80

5.0(8 reviews)

Planning to go on a cultural day tour in Kathmandu? Our Nepal’s 7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites day tour package is the perfect choice for you! With this package, you don’t have to worry about missing out on visiting major landmarks. There are not just one, but seven destinations, which are significant in both natural and cultural ways. The 7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites you will visit include Boudhanath Stupa, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Changunarayan Temple, Pashupatinath, and Swoyambhunath. Each place has a story to tell. Legends have it that the Gods from ancient scriptures in Hinduism and Buddhism have had some influence on the creation of each of these destinations. And as you tour these major locations, you can stop by and indulge in some cheap yet affordable food options. You can buy just as many and different varieties of souvenirs, one or two from each place you visit. From letting your urge to spin every prayer wheel you see in your destination to taking hundreds of pictures in a single location, you will not have time to spare, in the best possible way! This is a private tour of the seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu for your group.

Everest Mountain Flight

1 Days

Everest Mountain Flight

$215

5.0(7 reviews)

The Everest Mountain Flight is a chance to see the highest mountain, Mount Everest, from the sky with a bird’s gaze. This flight lasts about 50 minutes-1 hour and can be your best and extraordinary experience. Along with Mt.Everest, the ride will take you close to other famous peaks, including Mount Lhotse, Nuptse, Cho Oyu, and 20 other prominent peaks. Besides, the high-altitude flight will also allow you to see the varied landscapes, glaciers, and valleys from above. The mountain flight does not have a long history but has gained popularity due to its convenience and safety. The flight is operated from Tribhuvan International Airport early in the morning, taking you to the east of Nepal. As the flight takes off, you can see a glimpse of Langtang Lirung, the first mountain view on the flight. Flying while witnessing many other beautiful mountain views, you can finally witness the top of Everest and fly to Chamlang Peak. From there, the plane takes a turn back on the same route. You can get a different perspective on the view while they return to Kathmandu. If you have limited time and want the most comfortable and fastest way to see the beauty of the Everest region, the Mount Everest flight can be the best option. Likewise, the tour is an excellent way to see the Himalayas without the hard work of trekking. Additionally, what makes this tour amazing is that anyone can enjoy it, regardless of age or fitness level. Thus, the tour is also ideal for travelers who want to spend their time with families in the mountains but are time-bound.

Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour

1 Days

Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour

$444

An Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour (ABC) is a thrilling way to witness the stunning Annapurna region of Nepal, mainly if you have limited time and want a better alternative to trekking. During this flight, you’ll be treated to breathtaking aerial views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna mountain ranges, lush forests, terraced fields, and charming villages.

Langtang Valley Trek

8 Days

Langtang Valley Trek

$449

5.0(10 reviews)

Have you ever dreamed of trekking in the Himalayas but worried that overcrowded trails will ruin the adventure? The 8-days Langtang Valley Trek is the perfect solution to this dilemma. Located just north of Kathmandu, the trek can be reached within a 6-hour drive, with no flights required. Fully rebuilt after 2015 earthquake and safer than ever, this trek offers a Tamang Himalayan experience rather than a Sherpa-focused one, while directly supporting the economic growth of the local community. This trek is fully focused on nature. You will cross the Langtang Khola and Bhote Koshi rivers using simple suspension bridges made of steel or wood, with minimal modern modification You can also see Langtang Lirung (7,234M), Dorje Lakpa (6,966M), Gangchempo (6,388M), Yala Peak (5,500M), and many other snow-covered mountains throughout the journey. The trekking route also connects with high Himalayan passes used by local traders and yak herders for many years. Villages in the Langtang valley still follow old Buddhist traditions. During festivals like Sonam Lhosar (Jan–Feb) and Buddha Jayanti (May), local people gather for prayers, dancing, singing, and family celebrations. Trekkers can see yak farming, the cheese-making process, and traditional stone and clay houses that portray the lifestyle of the high Himalayas. The route from Syabrubesi to Lama Hotel and Langtang Village up to Kyanjin Gompa lies inside Langtang National Park, the first Himalayan national park of Nepal, established in 1976. The park covers around 1,710 sq km and protects forests, rivers, glaciers, and alpine grasslands. The region is inhabited by red pandas, Himalayan black bears, musk deer, snow leopards, and over 250 species of birds including Himalayan Monal (the national bird of Nepal). If you want capture mountain views without going on a long expedition, the Langtang Valley Trek is one of the best choices in Nepal. Pack your boots, charge your camera, and get ready to walk in one of the most loved Himalayan valleys.

5 Days Nepal Tour

5 Days

5 Days Nepal Tour

$197

In just five days, you can see the best of Nepal! Beginning in Kathmandu, the city full of history and culture, you will then travel to Pokhara. Pokhara is famous for its pretty lakes and amazing views of the big Himalayan mountains. This trip mixes nature, culture, and calm moments perfectly. The journey takes you through UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), and Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu. This visit offers insight into Nepal’s rich spiritual heritage and its ancient architecture. Likewise, in Pokhara, you’ll experience serene moments at the World Peace Pagoda, boat on the calm Phewa Lake, and visit the dramatic Davi’s Fall and Gupteshwor Cave. The early morning trip to Sarangkot is the highlight of the city of Pokhara, which offers breathtaking sunrise views over the Annapurna and Machapuchare ranges. This tour is ideal for those seeking a short but rich experience of Nepal’s cultural treasures, scenic landscapes, and spiritual serenity, all within five unforgettable days.

Lumbini Tour Nepal

3 Days

Lumbini Tour Nepal

$320

5.0(1 reviews)

The Lumbini Tour is a cultural heritage sightseeing tour through one of the sacred and historical sites, the birthplace of Buddha. The tour is a journey through peace and enlightenment, offering a chance to learn in-depth about the life of Lord Buddha and his teachings. The tour to Lumbini offers visitors and pilgrims an exploration of historical, cultural, and spiritual landmarks from the Maya Devi temple to Puskarini pons, Ashoka pillar, Lumbini Garden and Museum, and World Peace Pagoda. Moreover, the trip provides a chance for exploration through Tilaurakot, Gotihawa, Kudan, Niglihawa, and Sagarhawa, other prominent landmarks of Kapilvastu. If you are more interested in exploring Buddhist culture then we also have Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour for you.

6 days Nepal tour package

6 Days

6 days Nepal tour package

$250

Get ready to explore the beauty and culture of Nepal with our specially designed 6-day Nepal tour package. This comfortable journey takes you through three of Nepal’s most loved destinations, Kathmandu, Nagarkot, and Pokhara. There are no long hikes or difficult treks. Just a relaxing road trip. The tour package is perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy the best of Nepal’s nature, history, and scenic landscapes in a short time with family, friends, loved ones, or even solo travelers. The tour starts in Kathmandu, Nepal’s bustling capital and cultural heart. This city is full of life, ancient temples, and historical landmarks. In fact, 7 out of Nepal’s 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites are right here. During your stay, you’ll explore iconic places like Kathmandu Durbar Square and Swayambhunath. Each spot tells its own story, filled with centuries of history, art, and spirituality. You will experience a unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist cultures that define the Kathmandu Valley. After Kathmandu, the journey heads to Nagarkot to catch a peaceful sunrise and sunset from the Nagarkot viewpoint. From there, the tour continues to Pokhara. From there, it’s off to Pokhara, a city that’s as calm as it is breathtaking. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and tranquil lakes, Pokhara offers unforgettable moments such as sunrise from Sarangkot, reflections of the Annapurna Range in Phewa Lake, and optional adventures like paragliding or boating. This way, in just six days, you’ll get a taste of Nepal’s culture, natural beauty, and a little bit of adventure.

Things to Do in Kathmandu & Nepal on a Budget (Activities Under $750)

Nepal is one of the best-value adventure destinations on earth. For under USD 750 you can eat your way through Kathmandu, tour three UNESCO city squares, fly past Everest, or hike to a Himalayan viewpoint — often several of these on one trip. Here are the best budget-friendly things to do in Nepal, from half-day tours to short getaways.

Under USD 750 in Nepal you can do a Kathmandu food tour, sightsee the Patan and Bhaktapur Durbar Squares, ride the Chandragiri cable car, take a one-hour Everest mountain flight, hike Chisapani–Nagarkot, or do a short 5–6 day Nepal highlights tour. Kathmandu Valley day tours are the cheapest, starting well under USD 100.

What $750 will get you in Nepal?

Nepal’s low costs mean a modest budget stretches a long way: guided day tours, entrance fees, private transport and even a scenic flight all fit comfortably under USD 750, with plenty left for food and souvenirs. Day activities around the Kathmandu Valley are the best value; short multi-day tours and mountain flights sit at the higher end of the budget.

Detailed Cost Analysis for Budget Activities in Nepal

The graph titled “Treks and Tours Below USD 750 in Asia” compares the cost of 12 popular travel experiences in Nepal. The most affordable options include the Kathmandu Food Tour (USD 65), Patan and Bhaktapur Tour (USD 75), and Chandragiri and Monkey Temple Tour (USD 78). Mid-range options like the Nagarkot Changunarayan Hike (USD 95) and Kathmandu Day Tour (USD 99) offer scenic views and heritage exploration at slightly higher costs.

Higher-cost activities under this range include the Everest Mountain Flight (USD 235), Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour (USD 444), and Langtang Valley Trek (USD 530). Longer or more comprehensive packages, such as the 5 Days Nepal Tour (USD 600), Lumbini Tour (USD 610), and 6 Days Nepal Tour Package (USD 748), provide beautiful experiences while remaining under USD 750. Overall, the graph highlights a variety of budget-friendly cultural, trekking, and adventure options in Nepal.

Choose the Perfect Experience in Nepal Under $750

Taste Newari & Nepali Cuisine in Kathmandu

The Kathmandu Food Tour is a cultural and culinary experience in the Kathmandu District of Nepal. Instead of mountains, this tour focuses on tasting traditional Newari, Nepali, and Tibetan dishes while exploring heritage streets and local markets.

• Max altitude: 1,400M (Kathmandu)
• Best season: Year-round
• Accommodation: Hotels
• Highlights: Nepali dishes like Chhoila, Sekuwa, Yomari, Nepalese Lassi, and Momos

Visit Ancient Royal Palaces of Patan & Bhaktapur

The Patan and Bhaktapur Tour takes you to two historic cities in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal. The main aim is to explore Durbar Square, medieval streets, and traditional craftsmanship that have been preserved for centuries.

• Max altitude: 1,400M (Kathmandu Valley)
• Best season: Year-round
• Accommodation: Hotels
• Highlights: Patan Durbar Square temples, Bhaktapur Nyatapola Temple, Golden Temple, Woodcarving workshops

Cable Cars and Kathmandu Viewpoint Stupa

Golden stupa of swayambhunath monkey aka monkey temple in kathmandu with prayer flags during chandragiri & monkey day temple tour.

The Chandragiri and Monkey Temple Tour is a short cultural and scenic trip in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal. Chandragiri Hill offers Himalayan views, while the Monkey Temple, or Swayambhunath Stupa, is one of the oldest religious sites in Kathmandu.

• Max altitude: 2,551M (Chandragiri Hill)
• Best season: Year-round
• Accommodation: Hotels
• Highlights: Cable car ride, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Ganesh Himal range from Chandragiri.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site for a Reason

The Nagarkot-Changunarayan Hike is a short trip located in the Bhaktapur District of Nepal. Starting from Nagarkot, the hike descends to Changunarayan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its ancient engineering feats.

• Max altitude: 2,175M (Nagarkot)
• Best season: Year-round
• Accommodation: Hotels
• Highlights: Mount Everest, Langtang Lirung, Hanumante River in Bhaktapur Valley, Changunarayan Temple

A Day Tour of the Nation’s Capital

The Kathmandu Day Tour involves visiting four UNESCO World Heritage Sites- Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, Kathmandu Durbar Square, and Pashupatinath Temple.

• Max altitude: 1,400M (Kathmandu Valley)
• Best season: All year round
• Accommodation: Hotels
• Highlights: Malla King architecture, 17th-century Krishna Temple, Goddess Kumari

Stupas, Temples, and Ancient Palaces – All at Once

The 7 UNESCO Heritage Site Day Tour covers all the world heritage sites inside the Kathmandu Valley in one day. The purpose of this day tour is to explore the Hindu and Buddhist landmarks that define Kathmandu Valley.

• Max altitude: 1,400M (Kathmandu City)
• Best season: All year round
• Accommodation: Hotels
• Highlights: Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Changu Narayan Temple, Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa

Flying to Everest? In Just One Hour??!

The Everest Mountain Flight is a one-hour journey that takes you close to the Mahalangur Himalayan range. The purpose of this flight is to provide an aerial view of the world’s highest peaks, like Mount Everest.

• Max altitude: Flight altitude approx, 1,500-8,000M
• Best season: Mar-May, Sept -Dec
• Accommodation: Hotels
• Highlights: Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse, Mount Makalu, Mount Cho Oyu, Mount Shishapangma, Mount Gauri Shankar

A One-Hour Flight to Annapurna

The Annapurna Base Camp Heli is an aerial adventure in the Kaski and Myagdi districts of Nepal. Instead of trekking, this tour takes you directly to Annapurna Base Camp in a few hours by helicopter.

• Max altitude: 4,130M (Annapurna Base Camp)
• Best season: Spring and Autumn
• Accommodation: Hotels
• Highlights: Mount Annapurna I, Mount Machhapuchre, Mount Dhaulagiri, Mount Hiunchuli, Annapurna Glacier

A Scenic Trekking Experience Near Kathmandu

The Langtang Valley Trek is a Himalayan journey in the Rasuwa District of Nepal. The ultimate purpose of this trek is to reach Kyanjin Gompa (3,870M) and explore Langtang Village (3,430M).

• Max altitude: 4,984M (Tserko Ri)
• Best season: Mar-May, Sept-Nov
• Accommodation: Teahouses
• Highlights: Langtang Lirung, Mount Langshisha Ri, Langtang Glacier, Langtang Khola, Traditional Tamang Villages

Scale the Entire Nation in 5 Days!

The 5-Day Nepal Tour Package is a compact cultural and scenic journey covering Kathmandu and Pokhara. The target of the tour is to explore UNESCO heritage sites in Kathmandu, enjoy the natural beauty of Pokhara, and experience panoramic views from Sarangkot.

• Max altitude: 1,597M (Sarangkot)
• Best season: Mar-May, Sept-Nov
• Accommodation: Hotels
• Highlights: Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath Temple, Phewa Lake, Davis Falls, Mount Annapurna, Mount Dhaulagiri

Visit Lumbini, the Birthplace of Buddha

The Lumbini Tour is a spiritual journey in the Rupandehi District of Nepal, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. The main purpose is to explore the sacred sites of Lumbini, including monasteries, Maya Devi Temple, and meditation gardens.

• Max altitude: 100M (Lumbini)
• Best season: Mar, Apr, May, and Sept
• Accommodation: Hotels
• Highlights: Maya Devi Temple, Ashok Pillar, Puskarini (Holy Pond), Lumbini Museum, World Peace Pagoda

Complete Nepal Tour in 6 Days

The 6-Day Nepal Tour Package offers exploration across Kathmandu, Nagarkot, and Pokhara. The main aim is to visit UNESCO heritage sites in Kathmandu, enjoy the sunrise over the Himalayas from Nagarkot, explore Phokara, and panoramic mountain views from Sarangkot.

• Max altitude: 1,597M
• Best season: Spring, Autumn
• Accommodation: Hotels
• Highlights: Kathmandu UNESCO Heritage Sites, Mount Everest View, Phewa Lake, Lakeside exploration

Choosing the right tour or trek under USD 750 depends on your interests and fitness. If you love culture and history, Kathmandu, Patan, Bhaktapur, or Lumbini tours are perfect. For short hikes and scenic views, Naagarkot-Changunarayan, Chandragiri, or Sarangkot tours are ideal. And for a quick Himalayan experience, Everest or Annapurna helicopter flights offer beautiful views of the Himalayas. Each option doesn’t disappoint you without breaking your budget.

More Things to Do in Kathmandu on a Budget

If you are looking for the best places to visit in Kathmandu, one day in Kathmandu goes a long way. In the heart of Kathmandu, the old royal palace of the Durbar Squares in Kathmandu is one of the oldest sights in the valley, rebuilt after the 2015 earthquake. On the outskirts of Kathmandu, the Swayambhunath Stupa crowns a hill south-west of the city, while Pashupatinath Temple sits to the east. A good travel guide will tell you the best time to visit is autumn, and that a day in Kathmandu pairs perfectly with a few days in Pokhara. Remember travel insurance for any Himalaya add-on, whether it is a mountain flight past Mount Everest or a day trek. From cheap eats to fine restaurants in Kathmandu, and simple places to stay, the capital is easy on the budget.

Beyond the day tours, the Kathmandu Valley is packed with low-cost experiences. Wander the hustle and bustle of Thamel and the old market streets of Asan, then escape into the calm of the Garden of Dreams. Visit the great Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world and one of the most sacred Buddhist temples in Nepal; walk around the stupa with the pilgrims beneath fluttering prayer flags , it is one of the best things to do and well worth the visit.

Nearby, the Hindu temple of Pashupatinath on the banks of the Bagmati River is the main temple for the evening Aarati, and its riverside cremation ghats are a solemn window into the history of Kathmandu. From the traditional Newari streets of Kathmandu and the hustle and bustle around Asan to a quiet place to stay in a heritage courtyard, these sites in Kathmandu are the top things to see, and each is an easy day trip. Anyone planning to visit Nepal should give the world of Kathmandu at least a day before heading to the mountains. These UNESCO World Heritage Site landmarks, one of the largest stupas in the world at Boudhanath, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, and the ancient royal Durbar Squares with their Newari architecture are a must-visit and among the best things to do and see in Kathmandu. Whether you visit Boudhanath, wander south of Kathmandu, or simply enjoy the best views and even the best pizzas in Thamel, these top places and activities in Kathmandu make a great start to any trip to Nepal. Add a place to stay in Kathmandu near Thamel and you have a perfect base for your Nepal adventures throughout Nepal.

Explore the temple-filled courtyards of the three Durbar Squares, spin the prayer wheels at a hilltop monastery, and eat your fill of momos and Newari dishes for a few dollars. Even a Buddhist monastery visit or a sunrise viewpoint over the Himalayas costs almost nothing. For trekkers, this is also the natural place to rest before or after a big trek like Everest Base Camp.

Making the Most of Kathmandu

Visiting Kathmandu on a budget is easy once you know the layout. The best places in Kathmandu cluster around the old city, so a day exploring around Kathmandu can cover several must-visit sites on foot. Boudhanath is one of the holiest and most important religious sites for Buddhists, while Pashupatinath is equally sacred for Hindus, both are a must for any Kathmandu travel plan.

Thamel, with its hustle and bustle of Kathmandu shops and cafes, is the perfect place to base yourself and the natural starting point for wider Nepal travel. Spend a morning on temples, an afternoon in the markets, and an evening over momos, and you will see why Kathmandu is one of Asia’s best-value city breaks. Base yourself in Thamel, walk to Kathmandu Durbar Square and its cluster of temples, then day-trip to Patan Durbar Square and Bhaktapur Durbar Square for even more temples and palaces.

From a hilltop temple to a riverside temple, Kathmandu has a temple around every corner, and the three Durbar Squares are the must-do for anyone asking what the top things to do in Kathmandu are. Add a short trek near the valley rim and Thamel makes the perfect budget base.