Kathmandu City & Valley

Facts and Data about Kathmandu

Geographic Location

Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is located in the Kathmandu Valley in the central part of the country, at an altitude of about 1,400 meters (4,600 feet) above sea level. The valley is surrounded by four major mountains: Shivapuri, Phulchoki, Nagarjun, and Chandragiri. The city's coordinates are approximately 27.7° N latitude and 85.3° E longitude.

Area

Kathmandu covers an area of about 50.7 square kilometers (19.6 square miles) and forms the heart of the Kathmandu Valley, which has a total area of around 600 square kilometers (230 square miles).

Population

Kathmandu has a population of around 1.5 million people (as of 2023). Including the nearby cities of Patan and Bhaktapur, the Kathmandu Valley is home to about 3.5 million people. The population density in the city is approximately 30,000 people per square kilometer, making it one of the most densely populated areas in Nepal.

Ethnic Groups and Religion

Kathmandu is ethnically and religiously diverse. The primary ethnic group is the Newar, the indigenous people of the Kathmandu Valley, followed by other groups such as Brahmin, Chhetri, Tamang, and Gurung. The main religions are Hinduism and Buddhism, which are often closely intertwined. There are also smaller communities of Muslims and Christians.

Language

The official language is Nepali, but many people in Kathmandu also speak English, especially in the tourism and business sectors. The language of the Newar people, Newari (also known as Nepalbhasa), is also widely spoken.

Economy of Kathmandu

Main Sources of Income

Kathmandu is Nepal's economic center, dominating sectors such as trade, tourism, education, and services. Key economic areas include:

1. Tourism: Tourism is one of the city's main sources of revenue. Millions of tourists visit annually to explore the historic and cultural sites such as the Durbar Squares, Buddhist stupas, and Hindu temples. Trekking and mountaineering in the nearby Himalayas, particularly to the Everest and Annapurna regions, significantly contribute to the region's economic prosperity.
2. Trade and Services: Kathmandu is the country’s primary commercial hub. Most of the goods imported into Nepal enter through Kathmandu. The services sector, especially in banking, insurance, and education, also plays a major role in the local economy.
3. Small Businesses and Handicrafts: Handcrafted products such as Thangka paintings, carpets, jewelry, and wood carvings are important exports and contribute to the local economy.
4. Industry: Although smaller in comparison to other sectors, Kathmandu has a number of industries involved in textiles, food processing, and construction. Small manufacturing and handicraft industries are also widespread.

Labor Market

The labor market in Kathmandu is primarily concentrated in the services sector, particularly in tourism. The city also offers numerous employment opportunities in administration, education, and trade. A large portion of the population is also involved in informal sectors such as small-scale retail, construction, and handicrafts.

Education and Research

Kathmandu is Nepal's educational hub, with numerous universities, colleges, and technical schools. Tribhuvan University, the country's oldest and largest university, is based in Kathmandu. Other prestigious institutions, such as Kathmandu University and the Institute of Medicine, are also located in the capital.

Infrastructure

Transportation

Kathmandu has an extensive but often congested road network. Tribhuvan International Airport, the country’s only international airport, connects Nepal to the rest of the world. Within the city, taxis, buses, and motorcycles are the most common means of transportation. There are plans to develop a mass transit system (subway or light rail) to alleviate traffic congestion.

Energy and Electricity

Kathmandu relies heavily on hydropower, which supplies the majority of the city’s electricity. In recent years, the reliability of the power supply has improved, though power outages were common in the past. The government is increasingly investing in renewable energy to meet the growing demand.

Economy and Key Facts

1. GDP Contribution: Kathmandu is the economic engine of Nepal, contributing a significant portion to the national GDP.
2. Currency: The currency used is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR).
3. Climate: The city has a subtropical highland climate, with warm summers and mild winters. Monsoon season typically occurs between June and September.
4. Time Zone: Nepal Time (NPT), UTC +5:45.

Immerse yourself in the diversity of culture, nature and adventure

Country and people

Kathmandu and the surrounding valley are home to a diverse population in which Hinduism and Buddhism are closely intertwined. The warm hospitality of the Nepalese and the colorful mix of traditions and rituals can be felt in every corner of the city. Historic temples, stupas and colorful markets characterize the cityscape and make Kathmandu a cultural melting pot.

Culture

Kathmandu's culture is deeply rooted in religious practices and traditions. Famous sites such as the Swayambhunath Temple (also known as the "Monkey Temple") and the Boudhanath Stupa attract pilgrims from all over the world. Durbar Square in the center of Kathmandu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and reflects the glorious history of Nepalese architecture.

Animals

The Kathmandu Valley is not only rich in culture but also in wildlife. In the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, which stretches north of the city, nature lovers can spot a variety of bird species, monkeys and even leopards. The valley offers an extraordinary biodiversity that delights trekkers and nature lovers alike.

Trekking

Kathmandu is the gateway to some of the best trekking routes in the world. From Annapurna to Everest Base Camp, the Kathmandu Valley offers the perfect starting point for adventures in the Himalayas. For hiking enthusiasts, there are also easier routes such as the Nagarkot trek, which offers magnificent views of the Himalayas.

Landscape

The Kathmandu Valley impresses with its picturesque landscape of rolling hills, terraced fields and the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas in the background. This impressive natural setting invites you to go on long hikes, photo tours and voyages of discovery.

Activities

In Kathmandu itself, there are countless activities to discover. In addition to cultural sightseeing and temple tours, visitors can explore traditional craft markets, attend cooking classes or take part in meditation and yoga retreats. Trekking and hiking in the surrounding mountains is an absolute highlight for adventure lovers.

Best time to travel

The best time to explore Kathmandu and the surrounding valley is between October and April. During this time, the weather is dry and clear and offers perfect conditions for sightseeing and trekking. Autumn and spring in particular are characterized by pleasant temperatures and clear views of the mountains.

10 Most Beautiful Highlights – Sightseeing in Kathmandu and Surroundings

1. Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)

The Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, is one of the oldest and most important religious sites in Nepal. The golden stupa, surrounded by prayer wheels and colorful prayer flags, offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Kathmandu Valley. It is a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists and a must-visit for travelers.

2. Boudhanath Stupa

The Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest stupas in the world, is the spiritual center for the Tibetan Buddhist community in Nepal. Visitors can circumambulate the sacred site, spin prayer wheels, and observe the lively activities of monks and pilgrims.

3. Pashupatinath Temple

The Pashupatinath Temple is one of the holiest Hindu shrines in Nepal, attracting thousands of pilgrims each year. Located on the banks of the Bagmati River, where traditional cremation ceremonies take place, the temple comes alive during the Maha Shivaratri festival, when pilgrims from all over South Asia gather.

4. Kathmandu Durbar Square

In the heart of Kathmandu lies the Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most important historical centers in Nepal. Visitors can explore ancient palaces, temples, and courtyards, including the Hanuman Dhoka Palace. The architecture and art reflect the rich history of the Kathmandu Valley.

5. Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Located just outside of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur Durbar Square is another UNESCO World Heritage site. Bhaktapur is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, intricate temples, and the famous “55-Window Palace.” The town is a living museum and a journey back in time.

6. Patan Durbar Square

Patan Durbar Square, located in the city of Lalitpur, is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. The square is famous for its beautiful temples and pagodas in traditional Nepalese style, as well as the Patan Museum, which focuses on the region's history and art. The Krishna Temple is a particular highlight.

7. Nagarkot

Nagarkot, located about 32 kilometers east of Kathmandu, offers one of the best vantage points to view the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest on a clear day. The sunrises and sunsets here are spectacular, making it a popular destination for day trips and short hikes.

8. Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park

This national park, located north of Kathmandu, is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. There are numerous trails through dense forests and along small streams, rich with flora and fauna. The park also offers stunning views of the Kathmandu Valley and the Himalayas.

9. Kopan Monastery

Kopan Monastery is a popular Tibetan Buddhist monastery known for its meditation courses. Many visitors come here seeking peace and spiritual teachings. Situated on a hilltop, the monastery also offers a beautiful view of the Kathmandu Valley.

10. Pharping

Pharping is a spiritual retreat about 19 kilometers southwest of Kathmandu. The area is known for its Buddhist monasteries, meditation centers, and caves that are significant in Tibetan Buddhism. The Asura Cave, where Guru Rinpoche meditated, is a particularly sacred site.

Conclusion

Kathmandu and the surrounding valley offer an unparalleled mix of culture, nature, and adventure. Whether exploring the city's historical sites or embarking on a trekking adventure, Kathmandu is the perfect starting point to experience the heart of Nepal.