10 things to do in Kathmandu as Nepal’s capital welcomes back travellers after earthquakes of 2015

NEPAL’S capital is welcoming back travellers after last year’s devastating earthquakes and there’s plenty of things to do.

Prayer flags overlook the recovering city of Kathmandu. Picture: iStock

1. EAT OUT

Have a momo (dumpling) followed by a Nepalese curry. Suck down a lassi or a Ghorka beer. Many restaurants offer a range of Nepali, Indian and Chinese dishes — including delicious vegetarian fare. For delicious dumplings locals recommended Momo Cave, Yang Ling or Magic Momo. Himalayan Java has decent coffee for weary travellers.

2. VISIT A MONKEY TEMPLE

The world heritage-listed Swayambhunath Temple is a short drive west of central Kathmandu. Monkeys strut their stuff all over Buddhist shrines and even have their own pool to freshen up in. At the top of the temple, there is a sweeping panoramic view of the city. The earthquake damaged some sections but it remains open to visitors.

Monkeys rule the roost at Swayambhunath Temple, a short drive west of central Kathmandu. Picture: iStock

3. SHOP ‘TIL YOU DROP

Need pashminas or trekking gear? Well, you have come to the right city. The quality of scarfs is high, although most stores have a range in stock to suit different budgets. Trekking and camping gear quality can vary, but there are more than enough shops to inspect. And most of it is very cheap. Leave some space in your bag or suitcase when flying into Nepal because it will get filled fast.

4. ENTER THE GARDEN OF DREAMS

Amid the chaos of Kathmandu there is a historic garden with Edwardian buildings and murmuring fountains. People sprawl on the lawns and admire the pergolas built early last century under Field Marshal Kaiser Sumsher Rana. The food served at the Kaiser cafe is excellent, and includes sumptuous steaks. See gardenofdreams.org.np/

The Garden of Dreams in central Kathmandu is a historic garden. Picture: iStock

5. HOP ON A RICKSHAW

Drivers pedal the streets of the main city districts in Kathmandu. Make sure you settle on a price and length of journey before hopping on board and double-check prices once on board. The streets can be quite chaotic (horn honking is like a sport) so be prepared for a few thrills along the ride.

6. EXPLORE A JAZZ BAR OR A ROOFTOP RESTAURANT

City rooftops are well used in Kathmandu, including for tourists to enjoy a drink and a meal. Somewhat surprisingly, jazz bars are dotted around the city and locals say they can deliver. Upstairs Jazz in Lazimpat, not far from the Radisson Hotel, had rocking music with a pool table and rooftop bar (complete with foosbal table soccer).

7. VISIT KATHMANDU DURBAR SQUARE

Kathmandu’s bustling central hub, and the site of the major annual festival praising rain gods, called Indra Jatra. That festival sees the square filled with cheering locals dressed in vibrant colours and sheltering under umbrellas as a procession of chariots and masked dancers passes through. The Royal Palace is closed for redevelopments after earthquake damage, but there are many other remnants of the old Nepalese kingdom to admire in, and around, the square.

Take a scenic flight over Mt Everest. Picture: iStock

8. FLY PAST MOUNT EVEREST

Various companies do scenic flights of the world’s tallest mountain. Buddha Airlines guarantees a window seat to see the Himalayas during a 50-minute fixed-wing trip. Bear in mind photo opportunities aren’t perfect through windows, but the view is incredible. Flights cost about US $212. See buddhaair.com

9. LEARN TO COOK NEPALI—STYLE

Want to whip up a local curry? Local companies offer intimate classes for hungry foreigners. The non-profit Seven Women, which helps boost skills of disadvantaged women, runs three-hour experiences finishing with a feast and costing about $100. See urbanadventures.com/kathmandu-tour-cook-in-kathmandu

10. DO A DAY TOUR

For those wanting to explore deeper into the city’s maze of streets without getting completely lost, there are plenty of day tours to choose from. It can also be an efficient way to tour temples and navigate the central Thamel district, all in one day. Some companies offer bicycle tours as an option — which can include trips out of Kathmandu.

The writer was a guest of Intrepid Travel

Originally published as 10 things to do in Kathmandu as Nepal’s capital welcomes back travellers after earthquakes of 2015