Lodging in Kathmandu: A Complete Accommodation Guide

Kathmandu offers diverse lodging options ranging from ancient heritage palaces to modern boutique hotels. Here's your curated guide to finding the perfect place to stay in Nepal's vibrant capital.

Top Areas to Stay

1. Thamel (Tourist Central)

• Best for: First-time visitors, nightlife, shopping
• Atmosphere: Lively, crowded, tourist services everywhere
• Top Picks:
  • Hotel Tibet (4-star heritage)
  • Kathmandu Guest House (historic courtyard)
  • Aloft Kathmandu (modern luxury)

2. Boudhanath (Spiritual Hub)

• Best for: Buddhist culture, tranquility
• Atmosphere: Peaceful with stupa views
• Top Picks:
  • Hyatt Regency (5-star luxury)
  • Boudha Stupa View Hotel
  • The Happy House (boutique)

3. Patan (Cultural Heart)

• Best for: Arts, architecture, local vibe
• Atmosphere: Authentic Newari culture
• Top Picks:
  • The Inn Patan (heritage stay)
  • Traditional Comfort
  • Hira Guest House

4. Lazimpat/Gairidhara (Upscale)

• Best for: Business travelers, diplomats
• Atmosphere: Quiet, leafy streets
• Top Picks:
  • Dwarika's Hotel (5-star heritage)
  • Hotel Shanker (palace-turned-hotel)
  • Radisson Hotel Kathmandu

Lodging Types & Price Ranges

Type	Price/Night	Best For	Top Examples
Luxury Hotels	$150-$500	Splurge stays	Dwarika's, Hyatt, Yak & Yeti
Boutique Hotels	$80-$200	Cultural charm	Kantipur Temple House, Hotel Courtyard
Mid-Range	$30-$80	Comfort/value	Hotel Moonlight, Hotel Jampa
Budget Guesthouses	$10-$30	Backpackers	Zostel, International Guest House
Heritage Homes	$50-$150	Authentic experience	Traditional Comfort, The Inn Patan

Unique Stays Worth Considering

1. Heritage Palace Hotels

• Hotel Shanker: Former Rana palace with original frescoes
• Baber Mahal Vilas: Restored 19th-century complex

2. Buddhist Retreat Centers

• Kopan Monastery: Simple rooms with meditation programs
• Shechen Guest House: Peaceful stupa-view rooms

3. Newari Courtyard Houses

• Kantipur Temple House: Traditional architecture
• Nepalaya Boutique Hotel: Modern take on Newari style

Booking Tips

• Peak Seasons (Oct-Nov, Mar-Apr): Book 2-3 months ahead
• Shoulder Season: Can find 20-30% discounts
• Airport Transfers: Many hotels offer free pickup
• Payment: Credit cards accepted but carry cash for small hotels

Essential Amenities to Check

• Air purification (Kathmandu has pollution)
• Backup generator (frequent power cuts)
• Hot water reliability
• Elevator (if needed) - many heritage places lack them

Pro Tip: For long stays (1+ month), consider serviced apartments in Lazimpat or Boudha - often better value with kitchen facilities.