"You know that strange attraction you feel to something, someone, or somewhere, but can't quite explain why and what it is that has gotten a hold of you? That's how I feel about Kathmandu. This city is filled with good vibrations.

- Lynda 'Kechy

Click Photo Below for itinerary of Kathmandu, Nepal

                         Kathmandu ~ The City of Light and Good Dusty Vibes!

The Spotlight's on Kathmandu, Nepal! Have you met her? If not, welcome to Kathmandu. 

Kathmandu (The City of Light and Good Dusty Vibes) is the capital city of the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, the largest Himalayan state in Asia; and the largest metropolis in the Himalayan hill region. It has a population of 2 million people within its city limits and 6 million within the urban areas. It is a bustling, vibrant, spiritual city and its humans are as heartwarming as chicken soup for the soul.

The city stands at an elevation of approximately 4,600 feet above sea level and is the home of the Newar culture; a cosmopolitan urban civilization in the Himalayan foothills. Kathmandu has been the sole center of Nepal's art, economy, history and culture, and had beckoned for years. Religion and culture are a major part of the lives of the humans of Kathmandu with the vast majority being Hindus and Buddhists in this multi-ethnic region. Kathmandu is also popular or well known as a trekker's paradise for its majestic Himalayan mountains which have become a huge source of tourism for this part of the world.

There's a lot to enjoy in this city, including but not limited to 7 casinos, a plethora of restaurants with insanely delicious food, monumental sites to explore, to mention just a few. These and more contribute to its top ranking when it comes to travel destinations: ranked top 10 upcoming travel destinations in the world by TripAdvisor in 2013, and 1st in Asia. Historic areas of Kathmandu were once devastated by a 7.8 magnitude earthquake on April 25th, 2015, and the destruction is visible to this day. There are massive ongoing renovations at every turn as a result but nothing bad enough to dim its shine.

Nepali is the most spoken language in the city, while English is understood by the city's educated residents. Arriving Kathmandu one day before it's election day (12/6/17) posed a bit of a challenge and threw a major wrench in regards to days left on my itinerary to sightsee, but not enough to wreck this monumental moment. Albeit everything (monuments, temples, stores) was closed, post election, the city came back to life bursting with full potential. You know that strange attraction you feel to something, someone, or somewhere, but can't quite explain why and what it is that has gotten a hold of you? That's how I feel about Kathmandu. This city is filled with good vibrations. 

It's a definite TE recommended city to add to your life or bucket list. You won't regret it. Remember to click all pictures on this page to reveal additional surprise photos or useful links. 

Cheers ~ The Travel Enthusiast.