Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal is also its only international air gateway and major travel center. Tourism is the most important industry that sustains not only Nepal but Kathmandu also. In this regard, one can say that Kathmandu is a tourist friendly travel destination. Kathmandu is not big when one compares it to other cities in South Asia. Kathmandu is a fascinating old city today where pagodas, narrow cobbled lanes, old carved windows, and stone shrines are backdrops to the drama of life that continues unhindered. Here the experiences are amazing, views fascinating, and the climate charming.

Fact and Figures

Area	29.124 sq. km
Population	421,258
Altitude	1,350 meters above sea level
Languages	Nepali, Newari, and English
Best time to visit	October to March
STD Code	01

History

The city was founded around AD 723 as Manju-Patan. Initially, during the reign of Malla Kingdom, Kathmandu was known as Kantipur and ranked same in status as Patan and Bhaktpur. King Prithvi Narayan Shah was the man who made Kathmandu his capital in the 18th century and it never looked back after that. The opening of the country around 40 years back led to tremendous growth of tourism in the valley and the capital became a Mecca for trekkers, heaven for hippies, and a thriving cosmopolitan city.

Climate and Clothing

The best time to visit Kathmandu is October-November when the dry season starts. This is the time when you can encounter balmy air, clean air, perfect visibility and lush green countryside after monsoon. Other good periods are Februay - April and December-January.

When you are visiting Kathmandu during the summer, use light cotton otherwise never think of going to Kathmandu without warm woolen clothes.