Free self-guided walk · Kathmandu

Thamel to Durbar Square through the bazaars

A free self-guided walk through old Kathmandu, from Thamel through the market squares of Asan and Indra Chowk to Durbar Square.

Distance
2.1 km
Walking time
28 min
Allow
About 1.5 hours with stops
Stops
5

Open the route in Google MapsKathmandu city guide

About this walk

This walk follows the old trade route through the heart of Kathmandu, past small temples and shrines tucked into every square.

The lanes are busy and narrow; take your time and watch for motorbikes.

  • Terrain: Flat, on narrow lanes shared with motorbikes and few pavements.
  • Best time: Morning, when the markets are busiest and the light is soft.

Route map

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Route and stop positions © OpenStreetMap contributors. North is up.

The stops

  1. Thamel Chowk

    Start at the main junction of the traveller district.

  2. Kathesimbhu Stupa

    A small copy of Swayambhunath in a quiet courtyard.

  3. Asan Tole

    A six-road market crossing with a temple to the goddess Annapurna.

  4. Indra Chowk

    A square of cloth sellers and temples.

  5. Kathmandu Durbar Square

    Finish among the palaces and temples of the old kings.

Tips

  • Durbar Square charges foreign visitors an entry fee at its gates.
  • Walk clockwise around stupas and shrines.
  • Ask before photographing people.

Prefer a guide?

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Sources and review date

This walk was last reviewed on 2026-10-28. Distance and walking time come from OpenStreetMap's walking router and don't include time at stops. Opening hours and access change; please check before you go.