Thamel, Kathmandu: My Ultimate Travel Guide to the Heart of Nepal
It is no secret that Nepal is one of my favourite destinations on the planet, and you can see why by seeing the awe-struck Annapurna at Poon Hill to trekking the Langtang Valley and exploring the winding alleys of Thamel or soaking in the spiritual energy at Swayambhunath, this place has everything.
Traditionally, in my YouTube videos, I showcase the best of a place I have visited with videos and photos. However, weirdly, I do not have enough content to make a great video of Thamel or Kathmandu as a whole, but I have tons of content to share in written form.
I stayed in Thamel, Kathmandu, for a combined five weeks during two visits in 2018 and 2023, so I know the area well and have some cool spots for you to check out.
In this blog, I want to cover my favourite restaurants, cafes, sights, and accommodations in Thamel, Kathmandu.
My trek in the breathtaking Langtang Valley, with stunning views, tired legs, and endless Dal Bhat.
After a 5-year hiatus, we finally returned to Nepal and Kathmandu and are pretty excited about it. Our plan? The stunning Langtang Valley, nestled in the heart of the Himalayas in Nepal.
We had visited Nepal previously to hike the Annapurna, and this time, we are back to attempt the Langtang Valley. I have a love/hate relationship with hiking, and this journey isn’t short of drama either.
This is a blog on my unforgettable trek through the breathtaking Langtang Valley in Nepal. Starting from Syabrubesi, we'll journey through lush forests, cross suspension bridges, and visit charming Tamang villages. Experience the serene beauty of Kyanjin Gompa, where the towering peaks of Langtang Lirung and surrounding glaciers create a stunning backdrop.
We returned to Nepal for the first time in five years, and I am buzzing to be back. I instantly knew I was returning to one of my favourite countries when I smelt the dust and heard the traffic in the taxi from the airport to the hotel in Thamel.
Five years ago, we hiked the Annapurna Circuit and visited Pokhara, Chitwan National Park, Kathmandu, and other places around the country. This time, we visited Kathmandu and the Langtang Valley. We had been craving Dal Bhat every day since the last time we visited, and we had it every day in Nepal this time, including in Langtang on the trek.
Officially, a law in Nepal requires a guide when trekking in national parks and trails like this, so we had one for our journey. Whether this is enforced is another conversation and depends on the area you are trekking in Nepal.
This was a 9-day trek with a rest day in the middle of the journey, and it didn't come without drama on the second day.
The Langtang Valley trek can be challenging, with steep ascents and changing weather conditions. But the rewards are immense. Every step brings you closer to nature, and the views are simply out of this world.
The Langtang Valley offers more than just a trek; it's an experience of a lifetime filled with natural beauty, cultural richness, and personal growth.
Let’s go hiking!