Trekking in Nepal often begins or ends in Kathmandu. Whether you're flying in, adjusting to altitude, organising logistics, or simply unwinding after the trail, choosing the right place to stay can make a big difference. Below are detailed descriptions of neighbourhoods, hotel types, recommended lodgings, what to expect, and how to choose the best option based on your budget, comfort needs, and travel style.
Why Overnight Stays Near Kathmandu Matter
Staying in or near Kathmandu before or after your trek serves several vital functions:
- Acclimatisation: Spending a day or two at ~1,300–1,400m helps your body adapt before trekking upward.
- Logistics: Kathmandu is where permits, gear, shuttle buses, flights, and guide meetups happen.
- Rest and Replenish: Stock up on supplies, gear, and schedule medical check-ups, and treat yourself to a final massage or rest.
- Buffer for Delays: Weather or flight delays can necessitate an unexpected place to stay.
- Recovery: After the trek, you’ll want comfort, a hot shower, good food, maybe a spa or massage before departure.
Therefore, your choice of lodging is essential. Below are areas and lodging suggestions grouped by category to suit various budgets and tastes.
Area Overview: Where to Stay Around Kathmandu
Here are the neighbourhoods and /zones around Kathmandu well-suited for pre- or post-trek stays, along with their pros and cons.
Area | Altitude* | Atmosphere | Distance to Key Points (Airport / Old City / Bus to Trails) | Suited For |
| Thamel | ~1,350-1,400 m | Bustling, tourist-focused, many shops/restaurants | ~20-30 min to airport (traffic), walking distance to gear/permits, good bus access | First time visitors, gear shopping, complete services |
| Lazimpat / Patan (Lalitpur) | ~1,300-1,350 m | Quieter, more upscale, less crowded | Short drive to Thamel and Old City, moderate access to buses/shuttles | Travellers wanting comfort and calm |
| Boudha / Bouddhanath | ~1,350 m | Spiritual, peaceful, some guesthouses and mid-range lodges | ~45-60 min from the airport, less crowded, nice for rest days | Spiritual seekers, restful stays, yoga/meditation lovers |
| Nagarkot / Dhulikhel / Namobuddha area | ~2,000-2,500 m | Hills, nature views, cleaner air, rural/hamlet atmosphere | Requires driving up hills, more isolation, scenic sunrise/sunset views | Acclimatisation, nature lovers, photography days |
| Godavari / Pharping / Kirtipur outskirts | ~1,400-1,600 m (depending) | Green, forested, quieter than the city centre | Drive from the airport, a few shops, and more residential guesthouses | Rest & wellness stays, families, those avoiding noise |
* Altitude is approximate and may vary by exact location.
Types of Lodging: What to Expect
When choosing a place to stay, be aware of the types of lodgings available and the amenities they typically offer.
Category | Typical Price Range (USD / NPR) | Amenities Common | Pros | Cons |
| Budget guesthouses/hostels | $10-30 / NPR 1,500-3,500 | Basic rooms, shared or private bathrooms, wifi, common area, simple meals | Cheap, plentiful, easy to find, good for short stays | Simpler comfort, less privacy, and possible noise |
| Mid-range hotels | $40-100 / NPR 6,000-15,000 | Private bathroom, hot shower, restaurant, sometimes spa/gym, nicer decor | Comfort, better service, more privacy | More expensive, might require booking in advance |
| Boutique hotels/luxury lodges | $120-300+ / NPR 20,000-50,000+ | Luxuries: spa, sauna, garden, Nepal-style architecture, terraces, views, shuttle service | Great rest, pampering, great for recovery or special nights | Price, somewhat further from bus/trailheads, sometimes requires transport arrangements |
Recommended Places by Area
Below are specific recommendations for lodgings, from budget to luxury, in various zones around Kathmandu. All are solid choices for before or after trekking.
1. Thamel & Old City Area
This is the default base for many trekkers. Here's what we like:
- Budget / Mid-Range
- Kathmandu Guest House: Iconic, well-established, garden spaces, clean rooms, good food. Great for easing in.
- The Inn Patan: Slightly more upscale, with a tranquil courtyard, comfortable bed, and strong Wi-Fi. Good if you want access to the city, but also calm.
- Hotel Holy Himalaya: Mid-range, good value for rooms, within walking distance to gear shops.
- Boutique / Luxury Options
- Dwarika’s Hotel: Heritage architecture, excellent service, beautiful Nepalese design. Ideal for post-trek relaxation.
- Hyatt Regency Kathmandu: Modern luxury, spa, easy transport options. Good if you want to be pampered the night before or after the trek.
- Apsara Boutique Hotel: A slight boutique feel with personalised service. Great for solo travellers or couples wanting charm.
2. Lazimpat / Patan / Lazimpat-Patan Border
Quieter than Thamel, often more scenic, fewer loud tour operators:
- Hotel Shanker: A historic building with gardens, a nice restaurant, and a calm location.
- Kathmandu Eco Hotel & Spa: Good for wellness, spa, quiet evenings.
- Hyatt Place / Soaltee Crowne Plaza (if included): higher-end, good services, pickups, and excellent meals.
3. Boudha / Bouddhanath
If you want some calm but still city-close, spiritual feeling:
- Hotel Tibet International: Enjoy good views of the stupa from the roof terrace.
- Peace Lodge Boutique Hotel: A smaller, quiet, and comfortable hotel with décor.
- Boudha Peaceful Garden Home: A guesthouse-style home, simple yet cosy.
4. Hillsides & View Villages (Nagarkot / Dhulikhel / Namobuddha)
These are great places for acclimatisation or enjoying nature before/after trekking.
- Nagarkot Panorama Resort: Enjoy stunning views of the Himalayas, excellent food, and clean rooms.
- Dhulikhel Lodge Resort: Spacious property, gardens, Himalayan views.
- Namobuddha Retreat: More secluded, good for wellness, meditation, peace.
- Club Himalaya Resort Nagarkot: An all-inclusive, very comfortable resort.
5. Godavari / Pharping / Kirtipur Outskirts
Less touristy, more residential/resort background, lush surroundings, less traffic noise:
- Godavari Village Resort: A forest setting, walkable trails, and good food.
- Pharping Heritage Guesthouse: Rustic charm, quiet, close to monasteries.
- Kirtipur Town Guesthouses: More modest, offering good food and a local experience.
Deciding What’s Best for You
Here are factors to consider when choosing which place to stay:
- Budget and comfort level
If you only need a layover before a trek, budget guesthouses are sufficient. If it’s your post-trek recovery, splurge a bit. - Altitude gain strategy
Staying in a hillside village (e.g., Dhulikhel, Nagarkot) helps you acclimate to altitude slowly. It reduces the risk of altitude sickness on early morning treks. - Proximity to logistics
If you have early flights, gear shops to visit, and permits to collect, staying close to Thamel / Lazimpat saves travel time and stress. - Desire for views/serenity/landscape
If you prefer views of the Himalayas, sunrise/sunset vistas, and fresh air, pick lodgings in the hills. - Food and service quality
After a trek, many hikers crave good food, a proper bed, and a hot shower. Pay attention to reviews on food and comfort. - Transport conditions
Traffic in Kathmandu can add time. If you stay far away, ensure you have reliable transportation (such as hotel pickup, taxi, etc.). Check the distance to your next starting point.
Sample Itineraries Using Overnight Stays
To show how these lodging choices fit into real trek plans, here are sample pre-trek or post-trek stay suggestions.
Sample Plan A — Everest Base Camp Trek
- Day -1: Arrive in Kathmandu, stay in Thamel/Lazimpat for gear shopping and permit acquisition.
- Day 0: Travel to Lukla or have a buffer day — but stay at a boutique or upscale hotel in Kathmandu so that you can rest well.
- After the trek, return to Kathmandu and stay at a hillside resort (Nagarkot or Dhulikhel) for a day of recovery before catching a flight home.
Sample Plan B — Annapurna Circuit
- Day -1: Arrive in Pokhara or Kathmandu; stay in Pokhara if your trek starts from there, or in Kathmandu for overnight transit.
- After the trek, return via Kathmandu and stay in the Boudha /Bouddha area for calm, good food, and healing.
What to Pay Attention To (Amenities & Practical Details)
When booking, check for:
- Hot water: Not guaranteed in smaller guesthouses; essential after trekking.
- Heating/blankets: Nights can get cold, even at elevations of around 1,400-2,000m.
- Laundry service: If you need fresh clothes before the trek.
- Food options: If you have dietary restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, halal), better choices are closer to Thamel / tourist zones.
- WiFi/Connectivity: Many lodges offer WiFi, but it is often of poor quality. Suitable for calls, not streaming.
- Safety features: Well-lit walkways, reliable electricity, secure rooms, and staff who speak enough English.
- Transport arrangements: Airport pickup/drop, shuttle to trailheads.
Recommended Places with Details
Here are detailed profiles of some top recommended places to stay, including pros, cons, typical costs, and the type of travellers best suited.
Kathmandu Guest House (Thamel)
Profile: One of the oldest, most trusted guesthouses. Clean rooms, garden atmosphere, and on-site restaurant. Several room options from basic to deluxe.
Pros: Centrally located, reliable service, suitable for first-time arrivals. Shops, guides, and transport all around. Comfortable beds and warm water.
Cons: During peak times, rooms tend to fill up. Some road noise and traffic. Not luxury.
Approximate cost: Mid-budget (USD ~$40-70, depending on the room).
Best for: Trekkers who need convenience and don’t want to fuss over transportation.
Nagarkot Panorama Resort / Hilltop Lodges
Profile: Hill lodges/resorts in Nagarkot with views of snow peaks, sunrise vistas, terraced views, and gardens. Rooms are comfortable, featuring terraces and excellent dining options.
Pros: Fresh air, peace, great photography, clean surroundings. Ideal for rest or acclimatisation days.
Cons: Distance from gear shops or primary city services; needs travel time to/from. Sometimes roads are bumpy.
Approx cost: Mid to boutique (USD ~$70-150 depending on room and view).
Best suited for: Those seeking nature, serenity, and rejuvenation.
Boudha Guesthouses / Boutique Hotels
Profile: Smaller boutique hotels around Boudhanath Stupa; spiritual vibe, peaceful courtyards, many vegetarian/international food options.
Pros: Calmer atmosphere, cultural feel, good food, tranquil nights, often with views of the stupa.
Cons: Some places are basic; may require travel to the city centre. Security and comfort vary.
Approx cost: Low to midrange (USD ~$30-90).
Best for: Spiritual travellers, solo female travellers who prefer safe but peaceful surroundings.
Dhulikhel Lodge Resort / Namobuddha Retreats
Profile: Hillside lodges with gardens and views; high enough to feel removed from city noise; good for early morning views of mountain ranges and valley scenes. Often, these places offer spa services, yoga, or provide a relaxing environment with good food and rest.
Pros: Cleaner air, expansive views, the possibility of guided walks nearby, and calm evenings.
Cons: Limited nightlife or evening options; transport becomes essential.
Approx cost: Mid to boutique (USD ~$80-180 depending on amenities).
Best for: Acclimatisation, rest before a big trek, honeymooners, those wanting more comfort.
Practical Tips & Safety
- Book ahead during peak seasons (Autumn & Spring) because hotels in Kathmandu and Nagarkot fill up quickly.
- Check the elevation of the place you stay. Even modest heights help acclimate.
- Secure luggage: Use lockers or lockable wardrobes; bring a small padlock.
- Keep valuables safe: Passport, money; carry copies.
- Stay hydrated and rest well in your first 24-48 hours in Kathmandu.
- Be cautious of power and water supply: Nepal sometimes has load shedding. Choose places with a backup generator or battery.
- Consider travel insurance that covers unexpected overnights, delays, and hospital stays.
Sample “Stay Plans” Based on Time and Budget
Scenario | Stay Plan Before Trek | Stay Plan After Trek |
| Budget solo trekker, limited time | Stay in a hostel or guesthouse in Thamel for 1-2 nights before the trek to arrange your permits. After the trek, consider a guesthouse or mid-range accommodation in Thamel for comfort. | Consider spending the night in Boudha or Nagarkot for recovery. |
| Mid-range traveller, wants views & rest. | Arrive and stay 1 night in Kathmandu (Thamel or Lazimpat), then move to Nagarkot or Dhulikhel for views & rest before entering the mountains. After the trek, stay in a comfortable lodge near Kathmandu or a boutique hotel. | A lodge in the hills, then one night close to the airport if the flight is early. |
| Luxury / pampered itinerary | Stay in a high end boutique or luxury hotel in Kathmandu (Dwarika’s, Hyatt). Before the trek, one night at a hill lodge or spa day. After trek, a luxury spa or resort to recover. | Consider combining recovery with sightseeing around the the Kathmandu Valley. |
Areas to Be Mindful of or Avoid (for Stays)
While most areas near Kathmandu are safe, there are places to check carefully:
- Poorly lit back alleys, especially late at night in Thamel.
- Very budget guesthouses without heating or hot water in winter.
- Places too far from main roads, especially if the weather or transportation is bad.
- Lodgings with unsafe booking policies: no refund for landslides or flight delays.
Local Costs & Typical Prices
To budget lodging properly, here are rough numbers (2026 estimates, may vary based on exchange rate and hotel):
Type | Price Range (Kathmandu City) | Price Range (Hillsides / Nagarkot / Dhulikhel) |
| Budget Guesthouse / Hostel | USD $10-35 / NPR ~2,000 - 7,500 per night | $15-50 / NPR 3,500 - 12,000 |
| Mid-Range Hotel / Boutique | $50-120 / NPR ~8,000-20,000 | $80-180 / NPR 12,000-30,000 |
| Luxury / Boutique Resort | $150-300+ / NPR 25,000-50,000+ | $200-400+ / NPR 30,000-70,000+ depending on view & amenities |
Food, Wifi, and transport buffer should be added. Also, a tip for staff is customary (~5-10%) in nicer places.
Putting It All Together: Steps to Choose Your Overnight Stay
- Decide how many nights before and after the trek you want in Kathmandu or the hills.
- Set your budget for lodging and comfort.
- Select an area based on your priority: logistics (Thamel), views (Nagarkot/Dhulikhel), calm (Boudha or outskirts), or luxury.
- Read recent reviews, especially about hot water, cleanliness, power, safety and food hygiene.
- Confirm transport options to the airport or the trailhead from the lodging.
- Plan for buffer days in case of delays before flying out or into the trial point.
Case Studies from Past Trekkers
- Solo female trekker who did Everest Base Camp: Stayed 2 nights in Thamel for gear/permits, then one night in Nagarkot to acclimate, then trek. After returning, I opted for a boutique hotel in Boudha to rest, enjoy the spa, and take photos. She reported that the extra day in the hills before and after made a big difference for recovery and sleep quality.
- Group of friends on Annapurna Circuit: They stayed in Pokhara for the night before the trek, spent 2 nights in a Resort after the trek, at the Trekulikhel resort. They used the resort’s spa and walking trails to recover. They said the peaceful hillside stay boosted morale after the long trek.
Common Questions (FAQ Style) About Overnight Stays Near Kathmandu
- Do I need to stay in Kathmandu the night before the flight to Lukla?
Yes. Because Lukla flights are early and frequently delayed, staying in Kathmandu the night before gives you time and reduces the risk of missing the flight.
- Is hot water guaranteed in guesthouses?
Not always. Smaller guesthouses use solar or solar-electric heating, sometimes only during daylight or early evening. Luxury / mid-range places are more reliable.
- Should I acclimatise by staying in a hillside village?
Yes. Staying at an elevation of ~2,000-2,500m for a night or two before ascending to higher altitudes helps reduce the risk of altitude sickness. Places like Nagarkot, Dhulikhel, and Namobuddha are suitable for this.
- What about safety for solo travellers in hill lodges or remote areas?
Many hill lodges are safe, but it's essential always to check reviews and ensure the lodge has reliable staff, secure rooms, and adequate lighting. Let someone know where you are staying.
- How far in advance should I book?
Peak trekking seasons (autumn and spring) and holidays (Dashain and Tihar) experience high demand. Boutique and luxury lodges in Nagarkot, as well as high-end accommodations, often require booking weeks in advance. Budget guesthouses are less so, but still good to reserve.
Staying overnight near Kathmandu before and after your trek is more than just resting your legs. It affects your alt; it's a chance to acclimate to the altitude adaptation, how smoothly you log the smoothness of how well you recover, your recovery, the overall memorability of the area, the appropriate lodging level, and allowing time for buffer and rest can transform a good trek into a great one.
Hiking Nepal recommends that every trek plan include at least one night in Kathmandu (for arrival/departure), at least one night in the hills (Nagarkot, Dhulikhal, Namobuddha) to acclimate and enjoy the scenery, and one restful night after the trek in a comfortable lodge or boutique hotel to recover.
Use the profiles above, match them to your budget and cost, check reviews, and level plan your stays just like you plan your travels. A good stay sets the tone for excitement on the trail and gratitude after.
Safe journeys. Clear skies. Warm beds. See you in the Himalaya.
