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The best time to visit is October and November, when the monsoon has ended, skies are clear, and temperatures are mild. March and April are also pleasant, with warm days and lower humidity. Avoid May through September, as the monsoon brings heavy rain and high humidity, especially from June to August.

Thamel is the main tourist hub, with narrow lanes full of guesthouses, restaurants, and shops; it suits first-timers and backpackers. Durbar Marg, a wide avenue near the royal palace, offers upscale hotels like Hotel Yak & Yeti and Hotel Annapurna Kathmandu. Lazimpat, a quieter residential area, is good for a relaxed stay, with options like Radisson Hotel Kathmandu. Boudha, around the stupa, suits those wanting a more local, spiritual atmosphere, with Hyatt Regency Kathmandu nearby.

Kathmandu Durbar Square is the historic heart with palaces and temples. Patan Darbar Square and Bhaktapur Durbar Square showcase rich Newari architecture. Buddha Stupa is a major Buddhist pilgrimage site, while Swayambhu Mahachaitya offers panoramic views from its hilltop. Garden of Dreams provides a peaceful retreat in the city center.

The full-day tours from Kathmandu go to Nagarkot for sunrise views and hiking, and to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites around the Kathmandu Valley, including Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square. These cover the valley's main sights in a day. For a different day trip, you could also visit the hill town of Dhulikhel, known for its views of the Himalayas.

Plan 3 to 4 days in Kathmandu. In 3 days, you can see Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhu Mahachaitya, and Buddha Stupa, plus Patan or Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Add a fourth day for a day trip to Nagarkot for sunrise views and hiking. If you want to visit both Patan and Bhaktapur at a relaxed pace, allow 4 days in the city itself.