FindYourStay
🎒Backpackers

Where to Stay in Kathmandu

Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips

⚠️ Caution💰 Budget: NPR 2500/day🚇 Good Transit☀️ Best: Jan, Feb, Dec

Our pick for backpackers

Stay in Thamel

Offers the widest range of affordable accommodation, food, and gear shops.

Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers

Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Kathmandu

1

Thamel

Mid-range

The bustling backpacker hub, crammed with shops, eateries, and guesthouses.

first-timersbudgetsolo travelersbackpackers
  • +Everything you need is here.
  • +Easy to meet other travelers.
  • +Great starting point for exploring.
  • -Can be overwhelming and noisy.
  • -Touts can be persistent.
🏨 Hotel Thamel🏨 Zostel Kathmandu🏨 Kathmandu Guest House
2

Patan (Lalitpur)

Mid-range

A historic city of art and architecture, known for its ancient Newari culture and artisans.

culturecouplesfamiliesfoodies
  • +Rich in history and stunning architecture.
  • +More relaxed atmosphere than Thamel.
  • +Excellent local crafts and food.
  • -Further from some central Kathmandu attractions.
  • -Can be quiet at night.
🏨 Hotel Nar Phu🏨 Patan Museum Guest House🏨 Traditional Homes Nepal
3

Boudhanath

Mid-range

A serene and spiritual center dominated by the magnificent Boudhanath Stupa.

culturefamiliescouplessolo travelers
  • +Incredible spiritual atmosphere.
  • +Beautiful views, especially at sunrise and sunset.
  • +Plenty of Tibetan restaurants and cafes.
  • -Limited nightlife.
  • -Can feel a bit remote from other tourist areas.
🏨 Boudha Inn🏨 Hotel Country Villa🏨 The Kora Guest House
4

Lazimpat

Luxury

An upscale residential area with embassies, heritage hotels, and quiet streets.

luxurycouplesbusiness travelers
  • +Quiet and sophisticated.
  • +Home to some of Kathmandu's finest hotels.
  • +Good restaurants and cafes.
  • -Less traditional tourist infrastructure.
  • -Can be expensive.
🏨 The Dwarika's Hotel🏨 Hotel Shanker🏨 Akama Sherpa Resort

Daily Budget (Budget)

NPR 2500/day

Dorm bed at Zostel KathmanduNPR 800
Dal Bhat from a local eatery in ThamelNPR 400
Local bus rides around the cityNPR 300
Explore Kathmandu Durbar Square and Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)NPR 1000
See all budget tiers

Hidden Gems in Kathmandu

Lesser-known spots the locals love

🛍️

Ason Tole

FREE

Dive into the heart of Kathmandu's daily life at this bustling traditional market. You'll find everything from fresh produce and spices to religious items and local handicrafts, offering an authentic sensory overload.

marketAsan
🍜

Newari Khaja Set (Snack Platter)

Savor a traditional Newari khaja set at a local eatery away from the tourist crowds. This flavorful platter typically includes beaten rice, curried soybeans, fried potato, pickled radish, and spiced beans.

foodVarious Local Eateries
🍜

Patan Museum Cafe

Enjoy a coffee or light meal at the charming cafe within the Patan Museum. It's a peaceful spot within a stunning courtyard setting, offering a moment of respite after exploring the museum and surrounding Durbar Square.

foodPatan Durbar Square
⚠️

2 areas to be cautious about

Read our full safety guide for Kathmandu

More Kathmandu Guides

Full Kathmandu guideAreas to avoid👩 Solo Female Travellers💑 Couples👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families💻 Digital Nomads✨ Luxury Travellers🎉 Nightlife Seekers