Kathmandu

What's the best time of year to visit Kathmandu?

October to November and March to April are generally the best windows, with clear skies and mild temperatures ideal for both the city and any trekking plans. The monsoon season runs roughly June through September, bringing heavy rain, while winter can get cold, especially at night.

Is Kathmandu safe for travelers?

Yes, Kathmandu is generally safe for travelers, with low rates of violent crime. Traffic and air pollution are bigger everyday concerns than crime in much of the city, and petty theft can occur in crowded tourist areas like Thamel, so normal caution with belongings applies.

Is Couchsurfing a good hostel alternative in Kathmandu?

Yes. Kathmandu already has plenty of budget guesthouses, but Couchsurfing adds a free stay plus a host who can give practical, current trekking advice and point you toward a proper dal bhat instead of the more tourist-oriented restaurants clustered in Thamel.

What neighborhoods should travelers explore or stay in, in Kathmandu?

Thamel is packed with trekking shops and guesthouses but touristy. Patan, across the river, is quieter and historic, with its own durbar square and craft traditions. Boudha has a Tibetan Buddhist community around a major stupa. Taxis and ride-hailing apps make getting around manageable despite heavy traffic.

What's the traveler and local community like in Kathmandu?

Practical and trek-focused, with hosts often as interested in helping plan the rest of a Nepal trip as showing off the city itself. It's a community used to travelers passing through on their way to the mountains, and generous with route and permit advice.