Neighborhood guide
Where to Stay in Kathmandu
The 3 areas worth basing yourself in Kathmandu, Nepal — ranked by our editors, with walking distances from the center. First-timers: start with Thamel.
City centerNeighborhoodsClick the map to enable scroll zoom
Top pick
Thamel
Backpacker and trekker hub — gear shops, restaurants, hostels, evening bars.
17 min walk from center
#2
Patan
UNESCO-listed Durbar Square south of the river — quieter, craft shops, heritage hotels.
6.5 km from center
#3
Bhaktapur
Medieval pottery city 13 km east — day-trip-perfect for temple courtyards.
8.4 km from center
Getting around
Walk Thamel; tuktuks and motorbike taxis (use Pathao app) for longer distances.
Negotiate taxi fares before boarding; check trek permits at the Tourist Information Centre.