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Flights to Kathmandu (KTM)

The enchanting capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu is a buzzing hub of markets and historical sites, backdropped by the staggering Himalayan mountains.
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Flights to Kathmandu

Sprawling through a valley surrounded by the breathtaking Himalayan mountains, Kathmandu is a captivating city defined by beautiful historic sites, vibrant marketplaces and spectacular natural beauty.

The capital of Nepal is a sensory adventure. Its colourful streets are a melee of motorbikes, rickshaws and local traders, creating a cacophony of sounds and smells. Its proximity to the world-famous peak of Mount Everest means it’s a popular stop for adventurers, while its fascinating culture makes it a charming destination in its own right.

Away from the energetic street vendors and beeping horns, Pashupatinath Temple is one of Kathmandu’s most esteemed religious sites. Situated on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a perfect starting point for an exploration of the city. At one of the oldest and most significant religious complexes in South Asia, you’ll find a stunning two-story Nepalese pagoda featuring a golden roof, silver-plated doors and exquisite wood carvings.

There are further UNESCO World Heritage Sites you can explore across Kathmandu and its surrounding area, with the three fascinating Durbar (royal palace) Squares a worthy cause to traverse this vibrant region. Kathmandu Durbar Square is the most central of the three and a living museum of traditional Newar architecture in the heart of the old city. Wander through an atmospheric cluster of temples, palaces, shrines and courtyards, accompanied by the scents and sounds of locals selling flowers and incense.

In Patan Durbar Square, south of the city centre, you’ll experience a more orderly, peaceful ambience. Watch artisans at work and hear traditional music drift through the air as you admire more remarkable temples and palaces - from the terracotta Mahabouddha Temple to the intricate stonework and iconography of the Royal Palace complex. Elsewhere, around 13km east of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur Durbar Square is home to the elegant 55 Window Palace, famed for its ornately carved sandalwood windows.

There is also an abundance of outstanding natural beauty surrounding Kathmandu. Trek through the snow-capped peaks of Langtang National Park, where red pandas and snow leopards roam, or hike to Nagarjuna Peak for sensational panoramic views across Kathmandu Valley.

Kathmandu’s cultural diversity is evident in its culinary scene, with Nepali, Tibetan and Indian influences combining for a variety of delicious dishes. Dal bhat, a hearty rice and lentil soup, and momos, steamed dumplings filled with meat or vegetables, are two staples, while chatamari (Newari-style savory pancakes) and sel roti (sweet, deep-fried bread) are among many moreish snacks.

Products and services may vary on actual flights depending on routes, aircraft configuration and whether your journey involves flights with a partner airline. Operational requirements may also cause last‑minute changes to the aircraft used on scheduled flights.

Trip Inspiration

What to do in Kathmandu

  • Fly over Mount Everest
    The snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas form one of the most striking mountain landscapes in the world and include the ethereal Mount Everest - known locally as Sagarmatha. Book a flight tour from Kathmandu and spend an hour enjoying a bird's-eye panorama of the famous summit, rising up above the clouds into the brilliant blue sky.
  • Relax in the Garden of Dreams
    Regarded as one of the most sophisticated private gardens of its time, the Garden of Dreams is now open to the public and makes for a peaceful escape from the city hubbub. Punctuated by six pavilions, each dedicated to a Nepali season, the garden is a serene blend of greenery, fountains and ponds within the famous Kaiser Mahal complex.
  • Go shopping at Asan Market
    The Asan Market is a buzzing square that pulses with life from dawn until dusk, with stalls selling a tremendous variety of goods, ranging from dried fish and spices to textiles and electronics. Simply observe this beautiful chaos, an authentic glimpse of Kathmandu’s daily life, or go in search of a unique souvenir to remember your trip.

Frequently asked questions about Kathmandu

  • Kathmandu is famed for its many key cultural and religious sites, with the city playing a key role in the region’s history. There are a multitude of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, from beautiful ancient temples and shrines to majestic palace complexes. The streets of Nepal’s capital are a diverse blend of traditional marketplaces, offering countless experiences of the nation’s world-renowned cuisine.

    Kathmandu’s proximity to the Himalayas and Mount Everest also earns it international recognition, serving as a popular starting point for adventurers heading into the famous mountain range.

  • Kathmandu sits at an average elevation of 1,324m above sea level. The city is located in the Kathmandu Valley, a mountainous region in central Nepal.

    You’re highly unlikely to experience altitude sickness while exploring Kathmandu itself.

    While Kathmandu is associated with the Himalayan mountains and the world's highest peak, Mount Everest, there are in fact many capital cities located at higher elevations – including several located more than 2,000m above sea level.

  • You can’t see Mount Everest directly from the centre of Kathmandu – which is around 160km from the mountain - but there are various viewpoints on the outskirts of the city from which you can spot the world’s tallest peak.

    Nagarkot, a short bus or taxi ride east of Kathmandu, is known for its stunning views of the Himalayas. See Everest and other vast mountains like Annapurna and Ganesh Himal from a peaceful hill station in this quaint village.

    Alternatively, you can travel west of the city to Chandragiri Hill, another picturesque hill station. Take a cable car to the summit and enjoy breathtaking angles of Everest and the Himalayas – which are at their most spectacular at sunrise.