Getting Around in Kathmandu

Your first day in Kathmandu is usually dedicated to settling in, and exploring the city. The next morning may include a sightseeing tour to Pashupatinath, Boudanath or the Monkey Temple (Swayambunath). During your free time, the best way to explore your environs is to walk, as this enables you to enjoy the hurly-burly and to take in the sights, the smells, the unfamiliar culture and the exotic way of life of this fascinating city. Another option for simple sightseeing is by rickshaw. These large, man-power-pedalled tricycles, with two seats at the back covered by a folding hood, are gaudily hand- painted, and highly photogenic. Make sure that the ‘driver’ understands where you want to go, and agree the price before setting off. Taxis are available to go to almost anywhere within the Kathmandu Valley - they have black registration plates with white numbers. Again, make sure their meters are working, or agree a price for your journey, before getting into the vehicle. Safa-Tempo, Microbus and Public bus travel around Kathmandu is very cheap, but the seating is uncomfortable, passengers are packed in dangerously tightly, like sardines, and in general buses are not to be recommended during a short stay in the city.