If you want to see the sights but escape the tourist crowds, check out my suggestions for the best things to see and do and the best time to do it.
1. Watch the sunrise over the city from the Swayambunath Temple (Monkey Temple)
Avoid the hordes of tourists and get up before dawn. Join the locals on their daily exercise route or pilgrimage to the Monkey Temple. You will soon be warming up after climbing the stairs in time to see the sun rise over the Himalayas and shine over the city of Kathmandu.
2. Visit Bouldanath Stupa during the full moon
The full moon is an auspicious time for Buddhists. It is a particularly beautiful time to visit Bouldanath, the largest stupa in Southeast Asia. Hundreds of people come out here to circumnavigate the stupa and light butter candles around the entire structure. This is a truly beautiful and cultural experience.
3. Drink local chai at a street vendor
It’s cheap and tastes great. Hide in any alley and you’re sure to find a little old lady sitting in front of a gas stove. I guarantee you it will make the best sweet tea ever and it will only cost you 7 rupees. Sit on a stool and watch the world go by.
4. Watch the world go by in Durban Square
Kathmandu Durba Square is a fabulous place to sit and enjoy the daily life of Kathmandu. Go up to one of the temples and hang out with the locals as daily life unfolds on the streets of Kathmandu.
5. Go behind the colorful curtain and try steaming momos at a Tibetan restaurant
All those little doorways covered with a blue or maroon curtain, which you might think are someone’s house, are actually restaurants. Enter and be greeted by a burly mama who will offer you a plate of steaming buffalo stuffed meatballs (Momo’s) and some red hot sauce we call Achar. A plate of Momo will set you back around 60 rupees.
6. Take a rickshaw ride down the back street
Cycle rickshaw is the best way to get around Kathmandu. Beat the crowds on the street and get a great view over everyone’s heads. Hit the back streets and explore the local markets and alleys. Your driver will know all the best places to take you and won’t cost you an arm and a leg like a private tour would.
7. Bargaining spices and herbs in Asan Tole
Asan Tole is the commercial hub for most of Kathmandu. Here you can find colorful piles of spices, assortments of fried goods, fresh fruits and vegetables, and, in fact, just about anything. It’s worth spending an hour or two here and you may end up with a good selection of condiments to spice up your kitchen at home (although check your country’s regulations before going through customs).
8. Pay homage to Lord Shiva at Pashupatinath Temple
The best time to visit Pashupatinath is between 5am and 7am to see the authentic crowd offering worship to Lord Shiva. Although you cannot enter the temple, you can get a tremendous view of Nandi, Lord Shivas Bull and his huge golden balls! Well worth starting early and the best part is if you go early you avoid the 500 NPR entrance fee.
9. Kayak the upper Bagmati River
Even if you’re not an experienced kayaker, this gem of a river is a fun way to paddle. No rapids, but plenty of fun on the seven kilometer meandering ride through the agricultural regions of Kathmandu. Beautiful village life and a fantastic way to spend a sunny afternoon!
10. Ride a mountain bike to Jamcho
One of the seven peaks of the Kathmandu Valley. This is a challenging ride for the fit cyclist but the time alone in the jungle and the stunning views from the top are simply stunning and the descent that follows is well worth the sweat on the way up.