Start your Kathmandu adventure from Tribhuvan International Airport and stay at Hotel Trekkers Home in Thamel for a convenient base. Explore the Garden of Dreams, Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa all in one day. Don’t miss local flavors like momo, Newari Khaja, Nepali Thali, Chatamari, Thukpa, and street foods such as Pani Puri, Sekuwa, and Juju Dhau. Enjoy the city’s sights and tastes all within easy reach in same day you land.
Your adventure begins right after landing at Tribhuvan International Airport. You can make your visit to Nepal exciting even before your treks or city exploration, whether it’s your first time or not.
If you have a hotel reservation, you can take a taxi to get fresh and settled. Hotel Trekkers Home offers airport pickup for guests and can also arrange instant reservations if you haven’t booked a room. Located in central Thamel, a tourist hub, it’s an ideal base for exploring the city.
It’s a good idea to exchange currency for transport fares, as most taxis accept only local currency. Getting a SIM card from Ncell or Nepal Telecom is useful for data, communication, ride booking, and maps. After reaching your hotel, grab a light snack like momo or sel roti with local masala tea at nearby stalls to fuel your day.
Your first stop can be the Garden of Dreams, located in the heart of Thamel, just minutes from Hotel Trekkers Home. The garden features European-style design and Kesar Café, where you can try Nepali thali sets and other international dishes. Nearby is Kesar Mahal, known for its historical Rana-era architecture and the peaceful Kesar Library.
Next, visit Pashupatinath, about 4 km from Thamel. You can walk in 40–50 minutes or take a local bus to experience public transport. It’s one of the holiest Hindu temples in the world. Visit early morning or evening to witness Aarati performed by priests and see cremation rituals along the Bagmati River ghats.
From Pashupati, Boudhanath Stupa is just 4 km away, about a 40–50 minute walk, or you can take a bus. Explore the stupa and enjoy the peaceful, spiritual atmosphere.
These three sites are close to each other, so you can easily visit them all in one day.
Foods to Try
Nepal has many delicious foods, and here’s what to try while visiting Thamel, Pashupati, and Boudha:
Momo – In Thamel at Newa MoMo Restaurant or Thamel Momo Hut, in Pashupati at Momo Station or Kiran Dai Ko Momo, and in Boudha at Thulo Mo:Mo or Bouddha Jhol Mo:Mo.
Newari Khaja Set – In Thamel at Newa Khaja House, in Pashupati at Bhojan Griha, and in Boudha at Ghar Jamai Restaurant.
Nepali Thali Set – In Thamel at OR2K or Kathmandu Steak House, in Pashupati at Thakali Bhanchha Ghar, and in Boudha at Boudha Kitchen.
Chatamari – In Thamel at Chatamari House, in Pashupati at Krishna Chhen, and in Boudha at Cafe de Boudha.
Thukpa – In Thamel at Tibetan House, in Pashupati at Moonlight Restaurant, and in Boudha at Tibetan Kitchen.
You can also try other popular Nepali street foods like Pani Puri (Golgappa), Aloo Chop, Sekuwa (grilled meat skewers), Chatpate, and Juju Dhau – the creamy king of yogurt from local stalls to experience the authentic flavors of Kathmandu.
If you choose Trekkers Home for your stay, you can enjoy most of these delicious Nepali dishes right at the hotel. From momos and Dal Bhat to Chatamari and Thukpa, everything is within easy reach. A few of the local street food favorites, like Pani Puri and Juju Dhau, can be experienced just a short walk away, giving you the full taste of Kathmandu conveniently from one central location.
