Kathmandu is a great city for budget travelers. The city is rich in culture, tradition, and beautiful scenery, so exploring it doesn’t have to be expensive. This article will help you explore the low-cost Kathmandu with affordable food, attraction places, and hotels.

Affordable Accommodation in Kathmandu

Finding hotels and homestays in Kathmandu that are budget-friendly is not that difficult, especially in the tourist attractions.

1. Hostels

Many hostels are available in Kathmandu for visitors to stay under budget. Popular hostels like Alobar1000 and WanderThirst are some examples. These hostels are budget-friendly with great accommodation facilities so that guests can stay in comfort.

II. Budget Guesthouse

For people who are visiting Kathmandu with family, there are also guest houses in the city, in areas like Patan, and Freak Street. The guest houses offer private rooms in the affordable range with great facilities and friendly staff.

The guest house gives you a homely environment with the little traditional touch of Nepal. Elbrus Home is one of the affordable guesthouses in Kathmandu. There are many best hotels in the Thamel area, but people need to put a little effort into finding a budget-friendly one.

Cheap Eats: Where to eat in Kathmandu at a low cost?

The foods of Kathmandu are both delicious and budget-friendly if you like to eat local. The local foods in the city are hygienic and tasty which you will never forget.

I. Street Food

Street food, Low cost Kathmandu
Sekuwa, Street Food ( Source: Instagram)

 

Street food is the best, and there is also a variety of options available in street food. The street foods people should try are momo (dumplings), sekuwa, sel roti, and chatpate, which are all available in the roadside stalls. These are all under the budget and equally delicious.

II. Local Restaurants

There are also local restaurants all across the city. Roti and veggies, Dal Bhat (rice and lentils), and other dishes are served in the neighborhood eateries. Those who are in Kathmandu should also taste the Newari cuisine. The food is within the budget.

Top Budget-Friendly Places to Visit in Kathmandu

The city has low-cost places to enjoy while in Nepal, which are rich in culture and history. Here’s a must-visit place that won’t break the bank.

I. Swayambhunath

Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple, is an ancient Buddhist stupa located at the hilltop, of Kathmandu. After a quick hike up the stairs, it offers one of the most beautiful views of the city. A calm and spiritual atmosphere is created by the aroma of incense and the sound of monks chanting.

II. Pashupatinath Temple

Pashupatinath is a famous sacred Hindu temple of Lord Shiva, located on the banks of the Bagmati River, Kathmandu. Foreigners need to pay an entry fee that is not too expensive to enjoy the temple’s distinctive experience.

III. Boudhanath Stupa

One of the largest stupas in the world, Boudhanath is a peaceful spot to witness Tibetan Buddhist culture without spending much. The area is filled with monasteries, local restaurants, handicraft shops, etc. The entry fee is required for foreigners, which is affordable.

IV. Garden of Dreams

 

Low-Budget Kathmandu, Garden of Dreams
Garden of Dreams ( Source: Wikimedia Commons)

 

The Garden of Dreams is a peaceful, beautiful garden located in the Thamel. Here people can relax and enjoy the garden view, studying books and sipping coffee, and the cafe of the garden. Though small, the garden provides a great escape for budget travelers looking for a quiet break.

V. Kathmandu Durbar Square

Kathmandu Durbar Square is a heritage site, filled with temples, palaces, and intricate wood cravings. The temples you need to visit there are Taleju Temple, Hanuman Dhoka Palace, and Kumari Ghar (home of the Living Goddess). The fees are not too expensive.

Budget Transportation in Kathmandu

The budget for transportation in Kathmandu is public transportation.

I. Public Buses and Microbuses

 

Public Bus
Public Bus (Source: Wikimedia Commons)

 

The fare of buses and microbuses starts from $0.17 but it gradually increases with the distance you travel. These are the affordable transportation that connects most parts of the city.

II. Walking

Many of these tourist attractions are within walking distance if you decide to stay in Thamel. This might be the best budget-friendly way to explore the city.

III. Ridesharing Apps

The ridesharing apps are also available in the city. You can either choose the motorcycle or the taxi, depending upon your preference. The apps are Pathao, and Indrive, which are less expensive than the taxis you find on the roadside.

Final Thoughts

If you prepare beforehand, you can visit the fascinating city of Kathmandu on a tight budget. From inexpensive dining options to cultural events and free sights, this city has a lot to offer tourists on a limited budget.

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