Where to stay · Kathmandu, Nepal
Where to stay in Kathmandu
6 areas worth booking in Kathmandu, sorted by the budget each one actually suits — what the neighborhood feels like, and what a night there costs.
Budget — best areas
≈ $12 / nightThe backpacker and trekking hub: a warren of gear shops, guesthouses, bars and travel agents. Loud and crowded, but useful for organising treks.
Budget picks to book
Mid-range — best areas
≈ $45 / nightAcross the river, the most beautiful Durbar Square and a living centre of Newari metalwork and courtyards.
The neighbourhood around the great Boudhanath stupa: Tibetan monasteries, monks, prayer wheels and calm cafés.
A perfectly preserved medieval city (a separate town) of temples, pottery squares and traditional Newari life.
Patan's leafy restaurant-and-bar quarter, popular with expats for its international food scene.
Mid-range picks to book
Luxury — best areas
≈ $160 / nightThe smart strip near the old royal palace: luxury hotels, embassies, fine dining and brand shops.
Now pick the hotel
The Kathmandu guide carries the full shortlist for each tier, with why each hotel is on it.