Nepal · Days 1–3 of the journey

Kathmandu

Butter lamps at Boudhanath, the eyes of Swayambhunath watching over the valley, and courtyards where the old kings were crowned. Kathmandu is where the journey begins.

Altitude about 1,400 m (4,590 ft)
Best season Feb–Mar: clear skies, mild days
On the trip Days 1–3

See the 10-day journey What we do here

Why go

A city that still prays out loud

Kathmandu sits in a bowl of green hills, and for centuries it has been a crossroads of Hindu and Buddhist life. You see it in the morning crowds walking clockwise around the stupas, the prayer flags strung over every rooftop and the small shrines tucked into street corners.

Seven of the valley’s monuments together form one UNESCO World Heritage Site. On our trip you visit three of them in Kathmandu itself, then two more at the end of the journey.

What you’ll see

Three sacred places in three days

Boudhanath Stupa

One of the largest stupas in the world and the heart of Tibetan Buddhist life in Nepal. Join the evening kora, the walk around it.

Swayambhunath

The “Monkey Temple” on its hilltop, with the Buddha’s eyes looking over the whole valley and views across the city.

Durbar Square

The old royal square, with pagoda temples, carved windows and the house of the Kumari, the living goddess.

On our trip

Your first three days in Nepal

Day1

Arrive in Kathmandu and check in at your hotel.
Rest and settle into the time zone.

Day2

Morning orientation walk: Thamel, the old district and Durbar Square.
Afternoon group astrology session.
Traditional dinner with live music.

Day3

Early morning at Boudhanath Stupa.
Afternoon at Swayambhunath (the Monkey Temple).

KathmanduDays 1–3 · you are hereBandipurDay 4 Annapurna trekDays 5–7 Kathmandu ValleyDays 8–10

Good to know

Before you go

Weather in February and March

Days are usually mild and sunny, around the high teens to low 20s °C (mid 60s to 70s °F). Nights get cold, close to freezing, so bring a warm layer.

Visiting temples

Dress modestly, with shoulders and knees covered. Walk clockwise around stupas, and take your shoes off where you see others do so.

Arriving

Most travelers get a visa on arrival at Kathmandu airport. The trip planner has the current fee and what to bring.

Pace

Kathmandu is a gentle start: short walks, plenty of rest and time to adjust before the road west.

Questions

Frequently asked

Do I need to be Buddhist or Hindu to visit?

No. All three sites welcome visitors. We show you the customs, like walking clockwise, so you can take part respectfully.

Is Kathmandu at high altitude?

At about 1,400 m (4,590 ft), most people feel nothing at all. The highest night on the 10-day trip is about 2,060 m (6,760 ft).

What is the group astrology session?

A relaxed group reading on Day 2 with an astrologer, looking at what the journey might open up for you. No experience needed.

Can I do just Kathmandu?

Our 6-day trip stays in Kathmandu and the Kathmandu Valley and skips the mountains, if you are short on time.

Spirit of the Himalayas · 2027

Walk this part of Nepal with a small group

Kathmandu is part of our 10-day journey: Kathmandu, Bandipur, a gentle Annapurna trek and the Kathmandu Valley, with yoga, temple visits and a local guide. Short on time? The 6-day trip stays in the Kathmandu Valley.

DeparturesFeb 15 · Mar 1, 2027
Group size6 to 12 travelers
From$1,795 per traveler
To reserve$300 deposit

See dates and book Plan your trip

Early-bird pricing ends December 1.

Kathmandu

A city that still prays out loud