Since the beginning of time, Kathmandu, the ancient capital city of Nepal nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, has been known for its countless temples. It’s the kind of place where wanderers and spiritual seekers land up for a taste of the extraordinary. Beyond the sacred temples and spiritual haze, Kathmandu harbors a world of untold adventures. It’s a city where ancient traditions dance with modern-day thrills.
So, why not swap the conventional temple tours for a stroke of luck at Nepal’s premier casinos? Or maybe indulge in the sizzling flavors of street-side delicacies? Or navigate the wild waters of Himalayan rapids? Read on if you're ready to explore the city beyond temples and see Kathmandu in a new light!
1. Indulge in a quick retail therapy in Thamel
Kathmandu’s got a long story, but Thamel’s like a fresh chapter that’s quickly become the go-to spot for travellers. It’s a lively place where the streets are a mix of cool shops, exquisite bars, tasty eats, and street snacks, especially when they light up at night.
Hang out during the day and you’ll hit the jackpot for shopping in the narrow alleys. You’ll bump into all sorts of handmade stuff, with friendly folks ready to make a deal. You can score some super soft Pashmina or grab a colourful Thangka painting. When the evening rolls in, the bars get buzzing, thanks to the backpacker crowd. The vibe gets even better as you hop from one lit bar to the next, meeting people & making friends from across the globe.
2. Soak in the tranquility at Garden of Dreams
Just a short walk from the bustling lanes, you’ll stumble upon a peaceful oasis, Garden of Dreams. It’s like slipping into another world, far from the maddening buzz of the local markets. This charming garden, inspired by English estates, was lovingly crafted by Kaiser Shumsher in 1920. Thanks to the Austrian government’s support, it’s now a must-visit spot on your Kathmandu adventure.
3. Try your luck at Casino Mahjong
Casino Mahjong—it’s the second biggest one in Nepal and a total magnet for visitors. It’s super well-put-together and has a great vibe. Whether you’re just dabbling in games or you’re all about serious play, this place has got you covered. Imagine this: 10 tables, 60 machines, all spread out over a whopping 52,000 square feet.
The fun never stops with all sorts of games like blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and a bunch of others, including some local faves like kitty and marriage. Plus, you’ve got Bollywood tunes setting the mood in the background.
4. Discover the ancient architectural gems at Durbar Square
Nestled in the heart of Kathmandu’s bustling old town, a stroll through Durbar Square is akin to a journey through time. This historic plaza, also known as Basantapur Durbar Square or Hanuman Dhoka Durbar Square, is adorned with ancient structures and statues that tell tales of Nepal’s storied past.
The devastating earthquake of 2015 left its mark on Durbar Square, altering some of its timeless beauty. Despite this, the square remains a cornerstone of history, with restoration efforts breathing new life into the damaged monuments. Today, Durbar Square continues to be a hub of festivals, ceremonies, and religious rituals, preserving its status as a vibrant cultural epicenter.
5. Venture out on a low-altitude hill trek
If you’re itching to hit the trails, Kathmandu’s the perfect starting line for your Himalayan hiking adventure. It’s the go-to spot for snagging some gear and soaking up a bit of luxury before you dive into the wilds of the Himalayas. But hey, don’t rush off just yet! The city’s lapped by these awesome green hills that are totally worth checking out. Plus, the local treks are chill and low-key, tucked inside national parks, making them awesome for families or if you’re just starting out.
Now, talking about the cream of the crop, Nagarkot and Phulchowki are where it’s at. Nagarkot’s got these epic views that’ll knock your socks off, especially when the sun’s doing its hello and goodbye thing. Phulchowki? It’s a bit more on the wild side, with some cool mountain trails. Make sure to drop by the Phulchowki Mai shrine, and cap it off with a killer panorama of the Annapurna Range.
6. Sink your teeth into local delicacies
Get ready to chow down on some awesome local grub! In Nepal, food is a big deal—it’s tied to their spiritual life, brings people together, and is the star of any party. When you’re in Kathmandu, you’ll get to taste dishes that have been around for ages, like a delicious link to the past.
If you love trying out new cuisines when you travel, Kathmandu’s streets will be your happy place. Nepali food has got flavors from all over the world, but if you want the real deal, go for Newari food. It’s super fresh, organic, and packed with spices that’ll give your taste buds a wild ride.
And if you're done with street food tours, why not level up and cook some yourself? Join a local cooking class, hit the market, learn the recipes and then bam – you’re all set to recreate those Nepali flavors at home. What you think?
7. Fly over the Himalayas & catch a bird's Eye View of the Everest
For some folks, reaching the top of the mountain is the biggest thrill. For others, just getting to the base camp is exciting enough. But imagine getting a front-row seat to Everest’s grandeur without even lacing up hiking boots?
Just imagine: you can soak in the epic views of Mount Everest by taking a flight right over the Himalayas. Skip the hefty price tag and the risky climb through the ice and snow. Just kick back and relax while the pilot takes you on a mind-blowing tour.
This scenic flight takes off from Kathmandu and cruises over the stunning Himalayan range, bringing you face-to-face with the highest point on earth. And the best part? You won’t have to deal with any pesky middle seats blocking your view!
8. Sign up for a thrilling race with the rapids
Nepal, a land where the mountains touch the skies, isn’t just a paradise for those with a passion for the peaks; it’s also a playground for river rafting enthusiasts.
For those dipping their toes into the world of rafting, the Trisuli River is the go-to spot. It’s a scenic 3-hour drive from Kathmandu, and once you’re there, it’s all about the rush of the rapids without any terror. The river winds through landscapes dotted with picturesque villages and offers views of the mountains that are nothing short of majestic.
And if you’re looking for a quick escape, the Seti River is just around the corner. In just thirty minutes, you can go from city life to navigating Class III and IV rapids, all with the stunning Annapurna range as your backdrop. It’s a short, sweet, and exhilarating journey that packs a punch.
9. Take a stroll through Asan Tole
While the grand plazas bask in the spotlight, it’s the bustling Asan Tole that truly captures the essence of Kathmandu. Nestled in the heart of the city’s ancient quarters, this vibrant marketplace has been the pulsating hub for traders and buyers for ages. Even today, whispers of spice dance on the breeze, offering a window into the soul of Kathmandu’s daily hustle.
Long before you set foot in the historic Asan Tole, its symphony of scents and sounds envelops you. No forewarning can brace you for the explosion of life and chromatic splendor that awaits. Here, amid the towering edifices, a sea of humanity weaves through narrow alleys, a ballet of commerce amidst a kaleidoscope of vegetables and a rich tapestry of spices.
10. Indulge in a soothing sound healing session in Kathmandu
Ever thought you could get a massage without being touched? Sounds wild, right? But it’s totally a thing in Kathmandu. Picture this: you’re chilling in a cozy spot, and the air itself seems to hum with this cool, calming vibe. That’s the Tibetan singing bowls for you – it’s like a sound bath that somehow massages your body & soul, all while you’re sipping on your tea or just laying down with your eyes closed.
It’s not just some trendy new spa trick; it’s an old-school secret that’s all about the chill. The deal is, our bodies are like sponges for these vibes, turning them into a kind of inner dance. It’s science, not magic – but hey, it feels pretty magical when every bit of you is vibing in harmony.
Well, for an authentic experience, I’d recommend you hit up Nepal Singing Bowls and Healing Center; it’s a great spot for authentic singing bowls that’ll bring some zen to your overall wellbeing and calm your nerves.
So, what are you waiting for? Prepare your luggage and embark on the much-anticipated Himalayan journey to Kathmandu this season.
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