Kathmandu is the capital of Nepal and the cultural and economic centre of the Kathmandu Valley, set at an elevation of around 1,324 metres. It is a multi-ethnic city with a Hindu majority and a significant Vajrayana Buddhist presence, where religious and cultural festivals are part of everyday life. It is also the gateway to the Nepal Himalayas and home to several World Heritage Sites, including Durbar Square, Swayambhu Mahachaitya, Bouddha and Pashupatinath.
For a visitor, the practical question is which part of the city to base yourself in, because the main sights are spread across different quarters rather than clustered in one centre. This guide covers the areas that are useful as a base, what each one is like, and who each one suits. It does not recommend individual hotels, hostels or guesthouses.
Best areas to stay in Kathmandu
1. Thamel
Thamel is where virtually all tourist accommodation in Kathmandu is found. If you want the widest choice of places to stay and the easiest access to tourist services, this is the area to start with.
It suits first-time visitors and anyone who wants to be among other travellers. Because the great majority of the city's tourist accommodation is concentrated here, you will find the broadest range of options at every level of comfort.
2. Boudha
Boudha is the other area where tourist accommodation is available, and there are some good deals to be had around it. It is a reasonable alternative to Thamel, particularly if you prefer to base yourself away from the main tourist quarter.
It suits travellers who are willing to stay outside the central tourist area in exchange for better value. Bouddha is one of the city's World Heritage Sites, so staying here puts you close to that site rather than requiring a trip across the city.
3. Central Kathmandu
Upmarket hotels tend to be in central Kathmandu. This is the area to consider if you want to stay in the more formal, higher-end end of the city's accommodation.
It suits visitors who prioritise upmarket accommodation over proximity to the tourist quarter. Central Kathmandu is also where the city's governmental and financial activity is concentrated, so it is a practical base if your visit involves business in the centre.
4. Freak Street
Freak Street has a few guest houses. They tend to be cheaper than those in Thamel, though more tired looking.
It suits budget travellers who want a lower price and are willing to accept older, more worn accommodation in return. If price matters more to you than condition, this is the area to compare against Thamel.
5. Historical Newa towns
In the historical Newa towns you can find many homestays, where you can live in a traditional Newa house. This is a different kind of stay from the tourist quarters: you are in a residential setting rather than among hotels.
It suits travellers who want to stay in a traditional house and experience local life rather than a tourist-oriented area. Note that Patan and Bhaktapur are the other Newar towns of the valley, known respectively as Yala Dey and Khwopa Dey.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: guest houses on Freak Street, which are cheaper than those in Thamel but more tired looking.
- Mid-range: the general run of tourist accommodation in Thamel, where virtually all of the city's tourist lodging is concentrated.
- Splurge: upmarket hotels, which tend to be in central Kathmandu.
- Alternative: homestays in the historical Newa towns, where you stay in a traditional Newa house; good deals can also be had around Boudha.
Best area for a first visit
Thamel is the best base for a first visit, because virtually all tourist accommodation in Kathmandu is there, giving you the widest choice and the easiest starting point for arranging your time in the city. Staying here means you are in the middle of the tourist quarter rather than commuting into it. Once you know the city, Boudha, central Kathmandu or a homestay in a historical Newa town may suit you better.
Frequently asked questions
Where is most of the tourist accommodation in Kathmandu?
Virtually all tourist accommodation is in Thamel. There are also some good deals to be had around Boudha, upmarket hotels tend to be in central Kathmandu, and a few guest houses sit on Freak Street.
Are Freak Street guest houses cheaper than those in Thamel?
Yes. The guest houses on Freak Street tend to be cheaper, though more tired looking than those in Thamel.
Can I stay in a traditional house rather than a hotel?
Yes. You can find many homestays in historical Newa towns, where you can live in a traditional Newa house.
Should I accept help finding a place from someone on the street?
It is better to find a place on your own. Anyone on the street who takes you to a hotel will be receiving a commission from the hotel, and that will be included in the price you pay.
Compare live prices for the area you have chosen with the booking tools on this page.