Kathmandu: Overview

The mythical melds with the modern.

Kathmandu is really two cities: a fabled capital of convivial pilgrims and carved rose-brick temples, and a frenetic sprawl of modern towers, mobbed by beggars and monkeys and smothered in diesel fumes. It simultaneously reeks of history and the encroaching wear and tear of the modern world.

Travel Warning: Anti-China Protests - General Security

Travellers to Kathmandu are advised to exercise caution and steer clear of any anti-China protests. Following recent riots and demonstrations in Tibet, Tibetan exiles in Kathmandu staged three protests in one week. Nepalese authorities have adopted a zero-tolerance attitude towards the protesters.

Although the Maoist insurgency has ended, travellers should monitor the situation and keep abreast of warnings. Fatal bomb blasts that occurred on 2 September highlighted ongoing security concerns.

severity: Mid-level alert

Fast Facts

Population

700,000

Currency

Name: Nepalese Rupee
Code: NPR
Symbol: Rs

Electrical Plugs

European plug with two circular metal pins South African/Indian-style plug with two circular metal pins above a large circular grounding pin
230V 50Hz

Languages Spoken

Official: Nepali

Time Zones

GMT/UTC +5.75 

Country Dialing Code

+977

Weights & Measures

Metric

Traveller Tips & Discussion

Thorn Tree Forum

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Disclaimer: We've tried to make the information on this web site as accurate as possible, but it is provided 'as is' and we accept no responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by anyone resulting from this information. You should verify critical information (like visas, health and safety, customs and transportation) with the relevant authorities before you travel.

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