I spend around one week in Kathmandu. I came here to recover from the jet lag and take my rest. The air is quite polluted and I would not recommend you to spend this much time in this capital if you are easily overstimulated and like nature – and like to have fresh air.
I stayed in a hostel called WanderThirst Hostel. I choose a dorm and it included breakfast. The people were very friendly and the hostel was clean. This hostel is in the vibrant area of Thamel. They were doing some renovations but they also gave discount because of that.
Places I visited included the Garden of Dreams and the Monkey Temple called Swoyambhu. Which I would recommend. The Garden of Dreams is best to be visited in the morning on a weekday to avoid crowds, it cost 400NPR to enter. The temple was absolutely stunning – the flags, the energy, impressive and it cost 200NPR to enter.
I took some yin yoga classes at the Yogconnection (which was next to the hostel). They offered me a deal of 4 classes for the price of 3 (3000 NPR). The teacher was absolutely wonderful – she sang to me and guided me through beautiful sessions.
There are many veggie and vegan options for food. I would say most meals will cost you around 500-700 NPR. Some of my favorites include:
✦ Loving heart – this place is amazing – has typical Nepali dishes and fresh kombucha.
✦ Always Happy – best momos and falafel in town.
✦ Mandukat – good fried rice but loud music
✦ Pumpernickel Bakery – amazing breads
✦ Vera Pizza Kathmandu
✦ Samaya Rooftop Garden
✦ Organic Smoothie Bowl and Cafe – Thamel
✦ 4stories
✦ Cafe Kefi
There are some local shops where the profits go to woman’s skills and development, one of which is called Fair Circle.
The electricity went out once and everyone used the mobile devices with flashlight and candles – it was a surreal experience. Water in the shower was heated by a boiler with gas (the smell). My welcome to Nepal has been greeted with some stomach problems.
We met beautiful people who showed us around and the hospitality in Nepal is wonderful. Some of the artworks made by Buddhists are absolutely gorgeous. They created art work with the 108 Om mantra. Later I found out that this is a common scam in Nepal, so be warned and do not spend your money on this.
After my week in Kathmandu I am spending 10 days in the Kopan monastery for an introduction to Buddhism course. I will share more about it later on. Stay tuned!
miracles of the moon ☽ 