Kathmandu in 2–3 Days: A Backpacker Itinerary (Food, Temples, Cheap Transport)

Why visit Kathmandu first?

Kathmandu is your soft landing in Nepal: lively markets, layered history, and easy day trips. With this simple plan, you’ll tick off the big sights without rushing and still have time for momos and coffee breaks.

Day 1: Old city & sunset hill

• Thamel → Ason Bazaar: Grab breakfast, then wander spice lanes, brass shops, and vegetable markets.
• Kathmandu Durbar Square: Temples, courtyards, and the Kumari Ghar (Living Goddess). Hire a local guide for context.
• Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): Climb the steps for a wide sunset and city lights.

Eat & drink: Street momos, dal bhat, and a local tea (chia). Many cafés have rooftop views.

Day 2: Sacred east side

• Pashupatinath: Nepal’s major Shiva temple. Dress modestly; be respectful near cremation ghats.
• Boudhanath Stupa: Join locals walking the kora (clockwise). Try Tibetan dishes like thukpa or tingmo.
• Patan (Lalitpur) Durbar Square: Fine museums and craft alleys. Buy metalwork direct from artisans.

Day 3 (optional): Bhaktapur & viewpoints

• Bhaktapur Durbar Square: Brick lanes, pottery square, and juju dhau (yoghurt).
• Weather clear? Add Nagarkot or Chandragiri for a mountain horizon.

Cheap transport

• Ride‑hailing apps or local buses are affordable. Confirm taxi prices before you get in.
• Day trips to Bhaktapur and Patan are simple by bus or shared vans from city hubs.

Budget & stays

• Dorms and guesthouses range from ultra‑budget to comfy mid‑range.
• Daily spend around £20–35 if you eat local and ride buses.
• Pick Thamel for convenience or quieter neighborhoods for sleep.

Etiquette & safety

• Remove shoes at temples/stupas when asked. Walk clockwise around stupas.
• Ask before taking close‑up photos of people.
• Carry a mask for dusty roads and a small bottle of hand sanitiser.
• At night, stick to lit streets and use registered taxis or rides.

Easy add‑ons

• Cooking class (momo, dal bhat).
• One‑day valley hikes from Kirtipur or Sundarijal.
• Gear shopping before your trek—compare quality carefully.

Practical costs (rough)

• Dorm/guesthouse: from £6–15 per person.
• Meals: £1–4 for street snacks; £3–7 for simple cafés.
• Taxi across town: often £2–6—agree fare first.
• Day trips: buses and shared vans are the cheapest.

Where to stay (by vibe)

• Social hostels in Thamel for meeting trekkers.
• Calmer courtyards near Paknajol/JP Road.
• Heritage stays in Patan or Bhaktapur if you love architecture.

Money, SIM & maps

• ATMs are common in city centres; carry some cash for markets.
• Buy a local SIM (Ncell/Nepal Telecom) with data for offline maps and rides.
• Download offline maps (e.g., Maps.me) before heading out.