Travel Expert Luisa Parton, of Flight Centre Doncaster in Victoria, share's her favourite things about Kathmandu, the gateway to the Himilayas. 

"Kathmandu offers the most exciting mix of breathtaking ladnscapes and interesting culture", says Luisa. Here are some of her tips for making the most of the vibrant Nepalese capital. 

Food

Momos are vegetarian dumplings popular in Nepal.

Yangling Tibetan Restaurant serves the best momos (dumplings) in town – complete with locals’ tick of approval. For healthy meal options, you can’t go pass Green Organic Cafe and Farmers Bar.

After Dark

Rum Doodle Bar is a Kathmandu institution. Sure it’s a backpacker haunt but the bar has funky décor, great drinks, live tunes and a rooftop to chill out on. 

Play

Swayambhunath Stupa is a mesmerising temple in Kathmandu.

Swayambhunath Stupa is one of the oldest and mysterious sites in all of Kathmandu. It’s also the home of many playful monkeys who like to interact with visitors.  

Day Trip

Nargakot is a beautiful little village surrounded by the imposing Himalaya mountains.

Just 30 minutes outside town is Nargakot, a village that offers stunning views of the Himalayas, including, of course, Mt Everest.

Secret Tip 

The backstreets of Thamel are filled with so many hidden nooks. Once, I was invited to drink chai masala with a group of British gurkas in their compound.

This story first appeared in Travel Ideas Magazine. 

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