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Best time to visit Kathmandu

Nepal

The best months to visit Kathmandu are Oct – Nov, Mar – Apr. Clear skies, warm days, mountain views.

Quick facts

💰 Currency NPR (Nepalese Rupee) Cash preferred, cards in upscale venues
🗣 Language Nepali English spoken in tourist areas
🕐 Timezone NPT (UTC+5:45) No DST
☀️ Best Months Oct – Nov, Mar – Apr Clear skies, warm days, mountain views
🎒 Daily Budget ~$15–35 USD Budget backpacker range
🛂 Visa Visa on Arrival 15/30/90 day options at airport

When to go

Ancient temples, prayer flags, and Himalayan panoramas in the chaotic, spiritual heart of Nepal where medieval cities meet living Buddhist and Hindu traditions.

Oct – Nov, Mar – Apr is the busiest window in Kathmandu, so accommodation and flights go first. Book ahead. The shoulder weeks either side are usually quieter for the same reason.

Getting Around in Kathmandu

  • Taxis do not use meters, so negotiate the fare before getting in. Typical Thamel to Boudhanath fare is 400-600 NPR
  • Local micro-buses and tempos are extremely cheap (20-50 NPR) but crowded and confusing for first-timers
  • Ride-hailing apps (Pathao, inDrive) work in Kathmandu and offer fair pre-set pricing. Download before arriving

For month-by-month detail, itineraries and costs, see the full Kathmandu travel guide.

Timezone: NPT (UTC+5:45) (No DST)

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit Kathmandu?

The best months to visit Kathmandu are Oct – Nov, Mar – Apr (Clear skies, warm days, mountain views), which makes for the most comfortable conditions for sightseeing and getting around. For what a trip costs day to day, see the Kathmandu budget breakdown.

Find a travel companion for Kathmandu

roammate matches you with travellers heading to Kathmandu at the same time. Free on iOS and Android.

See the full Kathmandu guide