Explore Kathmandu and Beyond: A Local’s Guide for IAPB’s 2030 IN SIGHT LIVE Attendees

Namaste and welcome to Kathmandu, Nepal, the host city for IAPB 2030 IN SIGHT LIVE for this year, taking place from 29 April- 1 May 2025! As a local team member of IAPB, I am excited to share some must-visit places, unique experiences, and food recommendations to make your stay unforgettable. 

Explore Kathmandu: History, Culture and Spirituality  

The 2030 IN SIGHT LIVE venue at the Soaltee Hotel is well-connected to some of the most remarkable cultural and historical sites in Kathmandu. Here are my top recommendations: 

• Hanumandhoka Durbar Square or Kathmandu Durbar Square, which used to be the palace square of the kings from around 16th century. This will be a great area to explore if you are interested in history and local architecture. You can visit the Hanumandhoka museum. You might be lucky to see Kumari, the living goddess. As Nepal is mostly a Hindu country, you’ll find lots of temple in every nook and corner of the street! Don’t forget to try Newari food, spicy and flavourful, when you are there.  Nearby, explore the bustling Thamel, Asan, and Newroad markets for souvenirs. 

• Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), a stunning Buddhist stupa, situated on the hilltop, is believed to have existed before the settlement in the Kathmandu valley. Enjoy the panoramic view of Kathmandu, best visited in the morning for serenity or at evening for the lights.  

• Narayanhiti Durbar Museum, the official residence of the Nepali monarchy until the abolition in 2008, is now a museum. Visit to explore more on royal lifestyles and memories.  

• Patan Durbar Square, another ancient palace square with beautiful temples, stone and wood carvings and unique architecture. Spot Krishna mandir, the major attraction and centuries old stone spouts flowing with water to this day. 

• Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu temples, situated on the banks of the Bagmati river. While non-Hindus cannot enter the main temple, the surrounding complex and river rituals in the evening (sandhya aarati) are fascinating to observe. 

• Boudhanath Stupa, known as one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world, is situated in the middle of city. The area is famous for authentic Tibetan cuisine restaurants. 

• Bhaktapur Durbar Square is one among the three palace squares of Kathmandu, Patan and Kantipur are the other two. These palace squares are centuries old when the Kathmandu valley used to be three small states ruled by three kings. Similar to the other two squares, explore the museum to dive deep into culture and history. 

• Chandragiri hills, the highest hill on the southwest of the valley, offers a breathtaking view of the valley and mountains. Take a cable car ride to arrive there.  

• Nagarkot, the hill on the east of the valley, is a perfect spot to view sunrise and the mountain range including the Mt Everest.  

Beyond Kathmandu: Exploring Nepal’s Beauty 

Pokhara, a touristic city is around a 25 mins flight from Kathmandu. The city is filled with beautiful lakes, waterfalls, caves, and mountain views. Paragliding is famous and will be great in April. A new adventure is a hot air balloon flight. There are also options for hiking or trekking to Mount Annapurna base camp, or to a beautiful village- Ghandruk and so on. 

Bhairahawa, which is around a 35-minute flight from Kathmandu would also be a nice place to visit. Visit Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha to explore beautiful and serene monasteries.  

Chitwan National Park, also close to Kathmandu (~20 mins flight) offers jungle safari, elephant safari, bird watching.  

Food to Try in Kathmandu 

Momo comes first to mind when you think about favourite Nepali snacks. Try different momo ranging from veg to a variety of non-veg. It’s generally good in all places. Specific to mention are: Bota mo:mo, Everest mo:mo, Narayan Dai ko mo:mo  

Thakali Khana, a delicious and balanced Nepali meal, you can find everywhere in Kathmandu. Specific to mention are Jimbu Thakali (outlets in many places), Mantra Thakali in Jhamsikhel 

Himalayan Java Coffee is a must try when you are in Kathmandu for Nepal’s finest coffee.  

Hadigaun Saturday Mela – If you’re in Kathmandu on a Saturday, this street food fair is a must-visit! 

Lastly, Kathmandu is a city of vibrant culture, spiritual richness, and warm hospitality. I hope you take some time to explore, taste and experience Nepal’s beauty when you are there. Looking forward to seeing you at IAPB’s 2030 IN SIGHT LIVE!