🇳🇵 5-Day Nepal Itinerary: Journey to the Rooftop of the World

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), you will be met by your pre-arranged transfer or can easily find a pre-paid taxi to take you to your hotel. After checking in and dropping off your luggage, take a guided orientation walk through the bustling streets of Thamel. This is the perfect opportunity to get your bearings, exchange currency, and browse the endless array of shops selling everything from handcrafted jewelry to high-quality trekking equipment. As evening descends, enjoy a welcome dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant, which often includes a cultural show featuring local folk dances and music, providing a wonderful introduction to the nation’s heritage.

• Young Travelers: After dinner, explore the live music scene in Thamel, where many bars host local bands playing everything from rock to Nepali folk music.
• Seniors: Opt for a cycle rickshaw ride through the quieter parts of Thamel for a less strenuous way to absorb the atmosphere without navigating the crowded, narrow lanes on foot.
• Family: Find a rooftop restaurant in Thamel for dinner. The elevated view can be a fun way for children to watch the bustling street life from a calm and safe vantage point.
• With Disability: Thamel’s narrow, uneven, and crowded streets are extremely challenging for wheelchair users. It’s more practical to arrange a car and driver to visit specific, more accessible locations.

• Luxury: Arrange for a VIP airport arrival service with private luxury transport to a heritage hotel like Dwarika’s, followed by a private fine-dining experience.
• Adventure: Visit a local climbing wall in Thamel for a bit of bouldering to get your muscles warmed up for any future trekking or hiking plans.
• Nature: Escape the hustle of Thamel with a visit to the tranquil Garden of Dreams, a beautifully restored neo-classical garden with fountains, pavilions, and exotic plants, offering a peaceful oasis in the city’s heart.

• Luxury: The Dwarika’s Hotel
• Mid-Range: Kathmandu Guest House by KGH Hotels & Resorts
• Budget: Zostel Kathmandu

Navigating your first day in Kathmandu can be a smooth experience with a few key tips. First, arrange your airport transfer in advance through your hotel to avoid hassle upon arrival. If not, use the official pre-paid taxi counter just outside the arrivals hall to get a fair price. The currency is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR); while Thamel has many ATMs and money changers (which offer better rates than the airport), it’s wise to have a small amount of cash on you for immediate needs. When exploring Thamel, be prepared for sensory overload. The streets are narrow and shared by pedestrians, motorcycles, and rickshaws, so stay aware of your surroundings. While a map is useful, don’t be afraid to get a little lost—it’s the best way to discover hidden courtyards and temples. Be polite but firm with street vendors or touts. A simple “Namaste” and a smile while continuing to walk is an effective way to decline an offer. Finally, drink only bottled or properly purified water to stay healthy. Embracing the organized chaos is part of the fun and the key to enjoying your introduction to this incredible city.

Your arrival day attire in Kathmandu should prioritize comfort for your flight and practicality for your first city exploration. Layering is the golden rule for dressing in Nepal. For the plane and arrival, a comfortable pair of trousers, joggers, or travel pants is ideal. Pair this with a t-shirt and a fleece or light jacket that you can easily add or remove. Kathmandu’s weather can be mild, but evenings can be cool. Once you venture into Thamel, you’ll want to be comfortable yet respectful of the local culture. While Thamel is a tourist hub and quite liberal, it’s a good practice to dress modestly. This means avoiding very short shorts or revealing tops. Comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable. The streets are uneven and dusty, so sturdy, closed-toe shoes like sneakers or walking shoes will be your best friend. A pashmina or scarf is a versatile accessory for women; it can provide extra warmth in the evening and can be used for added modesty or to cover your head if you spontaneously enter a temple. This practical, layered approach ensures you are prepared for temperature changes and can comfortably navigate the bustling streets of Kathmandu.

Thamel is a food lover’s paradise, offering an incredible range of culinary options for your welcome dinner. For a truly authentic introduction to Nepali cuisine, seek out a restaurant that serves a traditional “Dal Bhat,” the national dish consisting of lentil soup, rice, vegetable curry, and pickles. Many restaurants in Thamel offer a “Nepali Thali Set” which provides a taste of several local dishes at once. A highly recommended spot for this is the Thamel House Restaurant, which serves delicious traditional food in a beautifully restored Newari building. Another must-try dish is the “momo,” a type of Nepali dumpling. You can find momo restaurants on almost every corner, serving steamed or fried versions with various fillings like buffalo, chicken, or vegetables. For a great atmosphere, visit Yangling Tibetan Restaurant, a local favorite famous for its delicious and affordable momos and “thukpa” (noodle soup). For your welcome dinner, choosing a place like Bhojan Griha, which combines a multi-course traditional meal with a cultural performance of Nepali folk dance and music, can be an enchanting and memorable start to your culinary journey in Nepal.

Your journey begins at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM). For a stress-free start, the best option is to have your hotel arrange a pre-booked airport pickup. The driver will be waiting for you with a placard, saving you from negotiating with taxi drivers after a long flight. Alternatively, you can use the official pre-paid taxi service available at a counter just inside the airport terminal. This ensures you pay a regulated fare to your destination in Thamel or elsewhere in the city. Once you are settled in your hotel, the best way to explore the immediate Thamel area is on foot. Thamel is a maze of narrow streets best navigated by walking, which allows you to browse shops and soak in the atmosphere. For a fun, short-distance ride within Thamel, you can hire a cycle rickshaw, but be sure to agree on the price before you start. Taxis are readily available for longer distances within the city, but it’s important to either ensure the driver uses the meter or negotiate the fare in advance. Ride-sharing apps like Pathao and InDrive are also becoming popular and can offer more transparent pricing for getting around Kathmandu.

The best way to cover these three sites is by hiring a private car and driver for the day. Start your morning at Swayambhunath Stupa to enjoy the clear morning views. Climb the 365 steps to the top and explore the complex of shrines and temples. Next, drive to Pashupatinath Temple. As a non-Hindu, you cannot enter the main temple, but you can explore the surrounding complex and observe the funeral ghats from across the river. Finally, head to Boudhanath Stupa in the late afternoon. Walk around the stupa in a clockwise direction, spin the prayer wheels, and perhaps enjoy a cup of tea in a rooftop cafe overlooking the magnificent structure as the evening light softens.

• Young Travelers: In the evening, explore the numerous rooftop restaurants and cafes around Boudhanath, which offer great views of the illuminated stupa and a chance to meet other travelers and locals.
• Seniors: A private car is essential for comfort. At Swayambhunath, there is a road that leads partway up the hill, reducing the number of stairs to climb. The area around Boudhanath is flat and easy to walk.
• Family: Children will be fascinated by the monkeys at Swayambhunath (remind them not to feed or touch them). The large, open plaza around Boudhanath is a safe space for them to walk around and observe the pigeons and pilgrims.
• With Disability: Pashupatinath and Boudhanath are largely accessible on the ground levels. Swayambhunath is very difficult due to the steep stairs. A car is necessary to move between these widespread sites.

• Luxury: Hire a knowledgeable cultural guide to accompany you for the day, providing deep insights into the history, symbolism, and religious significance of each site.
• Adventure: Instead of driving, you could potentially hire a scooter or motorcycle for the day (for experienced riders only) for a more independent and adventurous way to navigate the city.
• Nature: While the day is focused on cultural sites, the panoramic view from Swayambhunath offers a natural perspective of the entire valley, and on a clear day, you can see the Himalayan range in the distance.

• Luxury: Hyatt Regency Kathmandu (near Boudhanath)
• Mid-Range: Shambaling Hotel (near Boudhanath)
• Budget: Hotel Bodhiz (near Boudhanath)

Hiring a private car with a driver for the day is the most efficient and comfortable way to visit these three sites, which are located in different parts of the Kathmandu Valley. This saves you the time and hassle of negotiating with taxis for each leg of the journey. When visiting these religious sites, dressing modestly is crucial. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. For women, carrying a scarf is useful. You will need to remove your shoes before entering certain shrines, so wear shoes that are easy to take off and put on. Be prepared for the emotional intensity of Pashupatinath. The open-air cremations are a fundamental part of the Hindu faith but can be confronting for foreign visitors. Be respectful, observe from a distance, and refrain from taking intrusive photos. Always ask for permission before photographing holy men (sadhus), who may expect a small payment. Finally, purchase a combined entry ticket if available, but be prepared to pay separate entrance fees at each UNESCO site. This day offers deep cultural immersion, and approaching it with an open mind and a respectful attitude will greatly enhance your experience.

Today’s itinerary requires your most respectful attire, as you will be visiting some of the most sacred Hindu and Buddhist sites in Nepal. Modesty is key. For both men and women, clothing that covers the shoulders, arms, and knees is mandatory. Loose-fitting trousers or a long skirt are ideal. Avoid shorts, tank tops, and leggings. For women, a lightweight pashmina or scarf is an invaluable accessory. It can be used for extra shoulder coverage or to loosely cover your head as a sign of respect, though it’s not always required. The day involves a fair amount of walking and climbing stairs, especially at Swayambhunath, so comfortable walking shoes are essential. Since you may need to remove your shoes to enter certain holy areas, shoes that are easy to slip on and off, like loafers or sturdy slip-on sneakers, are more convenient than shoes with complicated laces. The sun can be strong, so a hat and sunglasses are also recommended for when you are walking around the large, open courtyards of the stupas. Dressing this way not only shows respect for the local culture and religious sentiments but also ensures you are comfortable throughout a long and fascinating day of exploration.

Your sightseeing tour across the valley offers diverse culinary opportunities. After visiting Swayambhunath, you can find small local eateries on the road back towards the city center serving simple but delicious Nepali food like chowmein and thukpa. The most atmospheric place to have lunch is near Boudhanath Stupa. The area is surrounded by excellent rooftop restaurants and cafes that offer spectacular, direct views of the stupa. A popular choice is the Stupa View Restaurant, which provides a great vantage point to watch the pilgrims while enjoying a meal. These restaurants cater to international tastes but also serve excellent Tibetan and Nepali dishes. It’s the perfect place to try Tibetan butter tea, if you’re feeling adventurous, alongside a plate of momos or a comforting bowl of noodle soup. The peaceful ambiance of Boudhanath makes it an ideal spot for a leisurely lunch, allowing you to rest and refuel while remaining immersed in the spiritual energy of the place. Eating with a view of the magnificent stupa is an experience in itself and a highlight of any visit to Kathmandu.

Given that Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, and Boudhanath are located in different parts of the Kathmandu Valley, the most highly recommended mode of transport for this day is to hire a private car and driver. You can easily arrange this through your hotel or a reputable travel agency in Thamel for a reasonable price. This provides immense flexibility, comfort, and efficiency, allowing you to move between the sites at your own pace without the stress of hailing and negotiating with multiple taxis. A taxi would be the next best option; you could hire one for the entire day or catch separate taxis for each leg of the journey. If you choose the latter, use a ride-sharing app like Pathao or agree on the fare before you get in. While local buses do connect these areas, they are often extremely crowded and can be difficult for tourists to navigate, making them an impractical choice for a packed day of sightseeing. A private car ensures you can dedicate your time and energy to exploring these incredible UNESCO sites rather than worrying about transportation logistics, making your day significantly more enjoyable and relaxed.

Hire a private car for the day for maximum convenience. Start your morning by driving to Patan Durbar Square. Spend a few hours exploring the square, visiting the Patan Museum (housed in a former palace and considered one of the best museums in Asia), and wandering through the surrounding alleys. Afterward, drive to Bhaktapur (approx. 45-60 mins). Have lunch at a rooftop restaurant overlooking Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Spend the entire afternoon exploring this incredible city. Key sights include the 55-Window Palace, the Nyatapola Temple, and Pottery Square, where you can observe local potters at work and even try your hand at the wheel. Drive back to Kathmandu in the late afternoon.

• Young Travelers: In Bhaktapur, seek out a shop selling “Ju Ju Dhau” (King Curd), a delicious, sweet, and creamy local yogurt that is a specialty of the city.
• Seniors: Both Durbar Squares are pedestrian-friendly but involve walking on uneven surfaces. Take frequent breaks at the many temple steps or in cafes overlooking the squares.
• Family: Bhaktapur’s Pottery Square is a fantastic experience for children, who will be fascinated to watch the potters and can try creating their own small clay pot.
• With Disability: The ground level of both squares is accessible, but the surfaces are very uneven (cobblestones and bricks). Entering temples and palaces involves stairs, making them inaccessible for wheelchair users.

• Luxury: Arrange a private guided tour with an art historian to explain the intricate iconography and history of the temples and palaces in Patan and Bhaktapur.
• Adventure: Rent a mountain bike and cycle from Patan to Bhaktapur (for very fit and experienced riders), passing through rural villages and countryside for a different perspective on the valley.
• Nature: While the day is focused on architecture, the drive between the cities offers glimpses of the valley’s agricultural landscape, with green fields of rice or vegetables depending on the season.

• Luxury: The Inn Patan
• Mid-Range: Traditional Homes – Swotha (Patan)
• Budget: Newa Chen (Patan)

The best way to visit both Patan and Bhaktapur in one day is by hiring a private car. This allows you to travel comfortably and efficiently between these two ancient cities. Be prepared to pay separate entrance fees for both Patan Durbar Square and the city of Bhaktapur; the fees for foreign nationals are significant but are essential for the upkeep of these precious sites. When exploring, wear your most comfortable walking shoes, as you will be on your feet for hours, walking on uneven cobblestones and brick-paved squares. It’s highly recommended to visit the Patan Museum within the Patan Durbar Square; it is exceptionally well-curated and provides invaluable context to the art and history of the valley. In Bhaktapur, allow yourself to wander away from the main squares into the smaller side alleys to see authentic local Newari life. Don’t miss trying the famous local yogurt, “Ju Ju Dhau,” which is a unique specialty of Bhaktapur and a delicious treat. Approaching the day with curiosity and taking your time to absorb the intricate details will make this journey through medieval Nepal truly unforgettable.

For your day exploring the ancient squares of Patan and Bhaktapur, comfort and respect remain the guiding principles for your attire. You will be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential to handle the uneven brick and stone pavements. As you will be visiting areas with numerous active temples and sacred sites, modest dress is important. Lightweight, breathable trousers or a long skirt are much more appropriate than shorts. Pair them with a top that covers your shoulders; a simple t-shirt or a light cotton blouse is perfect. The sun can be intense in the open squares, so a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses are crucial for protection. Nepal’s weather can change, so having a light jacket or a fleece in your daypack is a smart idea, especially for the morning or if the wind picks up. A scarf or pashmina is also a great accessory for women, useful for extra sun protection or for more conservative coverage when entering temple courtyards. This practical and respectful style of dress will ensure you are comfortable throughout your historical explorations and show courtesy to the local culture.

Both Patan and Bhaktapur offer wonderful dining experiences, often with incredible views. In Patan, after exploring the Durbar Square, you can find numerous charming cafes in the surrounding alleys. For a memorable lunch, consider the Patan Museum Cafe, which offers a tranquil courtyard setting away from the bustle of the square. Alternatively, find a rooftop restaurant overlooking the square for a meal with a view. When you get to Bhaktapur, the dining options are even more scenic. The main Durbar Square is lined with multi-story restaurants offering rooftop seating. Having lunch at one of these spots, like the Cafe Nyatapola which is housed in a temple-like structure, provides a breathtaking panorama of the entire square. This is the perfect place to try a traditional Newari platter, known as a “Samay Baji,” which includes beaten rice, smoked buffalo meat, soybeans, and other local specialties. It’s a true taste of the local culture. And you absolutely cannot leave Bhaktapur without trying its most famous culinary creation: “Ju Ju Dhau” or “King Curd,” a thick, creamy, sweet yogurt served in a clay bowl, available in many small shops around the city.

A private car with a driver is by far the most convenient and comfortable way to visit both Patan and Bhaktapur in a single day. You can hire one for the day from Kathmandu, and the driver will wait for you at each location and handle all the navigation through the valley’s busy traffic. The drive from Kathmandu to Patan is short, usually around 30 minutes. The journey from Patan to Bhaktapur takes about 45 to 60 minutes. This option gives you complete control over your schedule. Alternatively, you could use taxis for each leg of the journey. You would take one taxi from Kathmandu to Patan, another from Patan to Bhaktapur, and a final one from Bhaktapur back to Kathmandu. This may be slightly cheaper but requires more effort in finding and negotiating with drivers. For the budget-conscious and adventurous traveler, local buses connect all three cities, but they can be slow, very crowded, and difficult to navigate if you are unfamiliar with the routes. For a stress-free and efficient day of exploring these two magnificent medieval kingdoms, a private car is the superior choice.

Your day will start before dawn with a pre-arranged drive to Nagarkot (approx. 1.5-2 hours from Kathmandu). You will be taken to a viewpoint or your hotel’s terrace to watch the spectacular sunrise over the Himalayas. After sunrise and breakfast, you have a few options. Many visitors choose to take a scenic hike from Nagarkot down towards the Changu Narayan Temple (a UNESCO site), a walk of about 3-4 hours through beautiful countryside. Your driver can meet you at the end of the hike. Alternatively, you can spend more time in Nagarkot, enjoying the views, before driving back to Kathmandu. The afternoon can be spent at leisure, perhaps exploring the Garden of Dreams or doing some souvenir shopping in Thamel.

• Young Travelers: Opt for the scenic hike from Nagarkot to Changu Narayan for an active and rewarding way to experience the countryside.
• Seniors: Instead of hiking, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a hotel in Nagarkot with panoramic windows, allowing you to savor the mountain views in comfort before driving back to Kathmandu.
• Family: The sunrise experience is magical for all ages. A shorter, more gentle walk around the Nagarkot area can be a fun family activity instead of a long-distance hike.
• With Disability: The experience is dependent on finding an accessible viewpoint. Many hotels in Nagarkot have terraces or viewpoints that can be accessed by car, making the sunrise view possible for those with mobility issues.

• Luxury: For the ultimate experience, take a private helicopter tour from Kathmandu for a Mount Everest fly-by, offering unparalleled, close-up views of the world’s highest peaks.
• Adventure: For the very adventurous, Nagarkot is a popular spot for paragliding, offering incredible tandem flights with views of both the Himalayas and the Kathmandu Valley.
• Nature: The entire day is a celebration of nature, from the grandeur of the Himalayan peaks to the serene beauty of the forests and terraced farmland you walk through on the hike down from Nagarkot.

• Luxury: Club Himalaya, Nagarkot by KGH Hotels & Resorts
• Mid-Range: Hotel Mystic Mountain (Nagarkot)
• Budget: Hotel Mount Everest View (Nagarkot)

The key to a successful Nagarkot sunrise trip is planning and managing expectations. You must book a private car and driver the day before. The pre-dawn drive is cold, so dress in warm layers. A winter jacket, hat, and gloves are highly recommended, even if the days are warm in Kathmandu. Bring a thermos of hot tea or coffee to sip while you wait for the sun to rise. The most important factor is the weather. Mountain views are never guaranteed, as clouds and haze can obscure the peaks. Check the weather forecast, but be mentally prepared that you may not get a perfectly clear view. The experience of being in the hills at dawn is beautiful regardless. If you plan to hike, wear sturdy hiking shoes. The trail can be uneven and dusty. It’s also a good idea to have a guide for the hike to ensure you stay on the right path and to provide cultural insights along the way. Your driver can often connect you with a local hiking guide. This day requires effort, but the potential reward is one of the most breathtaking sights on the planet.

Dressing for the Nagarkot sunrise is all about warmth. The pre-dawn hours on the hill station are very cold, regardless of the season. You must dress in multiple warm layers. Start with a thermal base layer, add a fleece or a warm sweater, and top it off with a windproof and preferably insulated jacket. A warm hat or beanie, gloves, and a scarf are not optional; they are essential for staying comfortable while you wait for the sunrise. Warm socks and closed-toe shoes are also necessary. As the sun rises and the day warms up, you can begin to peel off these layers. If you plan on hiking down from Nagarkot, you’ll want to have a t-shirt or lighter layer underneath. You can pack your warmer layers into a daypack for the hike. Sturdy hiking shoes or boots with good grip are required for the trail. Sunglasses are also important, as the sun can be very bright once it’s up. By dressing like an onion—with many layers to add or remove—you can stay comfortable in the initial cold and adapt as the temperature changes throughout your active and scenic day.

Dining on this day is tied to your activities. Breakfast will typically be at a hotel or restaurant in Nagarkot after the sunrise. Most drivers will take you to a spot known for its views and a decent breakfast buffet or menu, usually consisting of eggs, toast, potatoes, and tea or coffee. If you opt for the hike from Nagarkot to Changu Narayan, you will need to pack some snacks like granola bars and sufficient water for the trail. There are very few places to buy food or drinks along the hiking route itself. Your lunch will likely be at the end of your hike, in the small village surrounding the Changu Narayan temple. Here you will find a few simple, local restaurants serving tasty and well-deserved Nepali fare like dal bhat or fried rice. Eating a hearty meal here, surrounded by the history of the ancient temple, is a rewarding end to your trek. For dinner, you will be back in Kathmandu, where you can choose from the vast array of restaurants in Thamel or other neighborhoods, perhaps celebrating your Himalayan views with a special meal.

The only practical way to get to Nagarkot for sunrise from Kathmandu is by hiring a private car and driver. You must arrange this the day before through your hotel or a trusted travel agency. Your driver will pick you up from your hotel between 4:00 AM and 4:30 AM for the 1.5 to 2-hour drive up the winding mountain roads. There is no public transportation that runs this early. A private car provides the comfort, safety, and timing necessary for the experience. If you choose to do the popular hike from Nagarkot down to the Changu Narayan Temple, your driver will drop you off at the starting point of the trail after breakfast and then drive to meet you at the hike’s endpoint at Changu Narayan a few hours later. This coordinated approach is seamless and highly convenient. After visiting the temple, your driver will take you back to your hotel in Kathmandu. This full-day private hire is the standard and most highly recommended method for this quintessential Nepali experience, ensuring you are in the right place at the right time for the magic to happen.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast. Depending on your flight schedule, spend the morning doing some last-minute souvenir shopping in Thamel. This is your chance to buy high-quality pashmina shawls, singing bowls, thangka paintings, or Nepali tea. For a peaceful escape, visit the Garden of Dreams, located on the edge of Thamel, and spend an hour relaxing in its beautiful pavilions and gardens. Enjoy a final lunch at a rooftop restaurant, taking in the views of the city one last time. Head back to your hotel to collect your luggage before your pre-arranged transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) for your flight home.

• Young Travelers: Use the morning to haggle for some unique souvenirs or clothing in Thamel’s countless shops, followed by a final great coffee at a trendy local cafe.
• Seniors: The Garden of Dreams is a perfect final activity, with flat paths and plenty of benches for resting in a beautiful, serene environment.
• Family: Visit a local fair-trade shop like the Mahaguthi Craft with Conscience, where you can buy beautiful, ethically-produced souvenirs and support local artisans.
• With Disability: The Garden of Dreams is largely accessible on its ground-level pathways, making it a good, relaxing option for a final morning.

• Luxury: Indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment or a traditional Ayurvedic massage at a high-end hotel spa to relax before your long flight home.
• Adventure: If you’re an early riser, take a final morning walk to Kathmandu Durbar Square (a different one from Patan and Bhaktapur) to see the city wake up and witness the morning rituals.
• Nature: The Garden of Dreams is the primary nature-focused activity for a relaxed departure day, offering a beautifully curated collection of flora in a peaceful setting.

No new hotel is needed for the departure day. You will check out from your existing hotel.

Plan your departure day with your flight schedule in mind. Most hotels in Kathmandu have a checkout time around noon but will gladly store your luggage for the afternoon. When souvenir shopping, remember that bargaining is expected in Thamel. It should be a friendly and respectful exchange, not an argument. A good starting point is to offer around 50-60% of the initial asking price and meet somewhere in the middle. For high-value items like thangka paintings or genuine pashmina, shop at reputable, fixed-price stores to ensure quality and authenticity. Always double-check your luggage weight limit before you go on a final shopping spree. It’s a good idea to have a dedicated space in your bag for fragile items. Finally, arrange your airport transfer in advance and plan to leave for Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) at least 3 hours before your international flight. The traffic in Kathmandu can be unpredictable, and the airport check-in process can be slow, so giving yourself ample time is the key to a stress-free departure.

For your final day of relaxed sightseeing and air travel, comfort is the absolute priority. Choose the most comfortable outfit you have. This often means breathable travel pants, joggers, or comfortable trousers. Pair them with a simple t-shirt and have your favorite travel hoodie or fleece handy. You’ll appreciate this warm layer for the airplane’s cool cabin. Closed-toe shoes, preferably sneakers, are the best choice. They are comfortable for a final walk through the city and practical for navigating the airport. Avoid any clothing that is restrictive, complicated, or made from non-breathable materials. This is not the day for fashion statements, but for ultimate travel comfort. If you plan on visiting the Garden of Dreams, this casual and comfortable attire is perfectly suitable. By dressing for comfort, you can fully enjoy your last few precious hours in Nepal and ensure your long journey home is as pleasant as possible, leaving the country feeling relaxed and content after a wonderful trip.

Your final meal in Nepal is a great chance to revisit a favorite dish or explore a new cafe. Thamel and its surroundings offer a plethora of choices for a memorable farewell lunch. For a fantastic final brunch or lunch in a beautiful setting, the Kaiser Cafe at the Garden of Dreams is an excellent option. It allows you to dine amidst the serene beauty of the gardens, a truly relaxing experience. If you’re looking for one last, great cup of coffee and some delicious baked goods, Himalayan Java Coffee is a famous local chain with several outlets in Thamel that serves high-quality Nepali coffee. For a final, hearty plate of momos, you could return to a favorite spot or ask a local for their recommendation—everyone has an opinion on the best momos in town! Choosing a restaurant with a rooftop terrace can be a wonderful way to say goodbye to the city, offering a final view over the bustling streets and surrounding hills. A satisfying and delicious last meal is the perfect way to cap off your incredible journey through Nepal.

Transportation on your departure day is relatively simple. For your morning activities, walking is the best way to get around Thamel for souvenir shopping. The Garden of Dreams is located at the entrance to Thamel, making it easily accessible on foot from most hotels in the area. The most crucial part of the day is your transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM). The most reliable and stress-free method is to have your hotel arrange a taxi for you at a specific time. This ensures you have a trusted driver and a fixed price. Alternatively, you can use a ride-sharing app like Pathao or hail a taxi from the street, but be sure to allow extra time for this. It is strongly recommended to leave for the airport at least three hours before your international flight departure time. The road to the airport can experience heavy traffic, and the check-in and security lines at KTM can be long and slow. A pre-arranged, timely departure from your hotel will ensure a smooth and worry-free end to your amazing trip to Nepal.