So, you’ve arrived in Kathmandu and checked into our Hotel Blue Horizon—great choice! Now, what’s next? If you are wondering where to start your adventure from Thamel, you have come in the right place.
Thamel is a biggest tourist hub in Kathmandu and trust me, you don’t have to wander far to find some incredible spots. Because, here are the top attractions near Hotel Blue Horizon, Thamel that you can wander in your free time:
Garden of Dreams:
Just a short 5-minute walk from Hotel Blue Horizon and you will reach the hidden gem, originally known as Kaiser Mahal Garden (Garden of Dreams). It is a beautifully restored neoclassical oasis, offering visitors a quiet escape right in the heart of Thamel.
Whether you need a break from sightseeing or just want a serene spot to read a book, this place is pure magic.
About Garden of Dreams:
Garden of Dreams was created in the early 20th century by Field Marshal Kaiser Shumsher Jung Bahadur Rana, a man with a passion for art, literature, and European-style landscapes.
Inspired by classical European gardens, he designed this space with six grand pavilions, each representing one of Nepal’s six seasons.
Over the years, the garden was neglected, its fountains dried up, and its lush greenery swallowed by weeds. Thankfully, with support from Austrian Development Aid, it was restored to its former glory and is now open to the public.
- Entry Fee: NPR 400 (approx. £2.50) for foreigners
- Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for golden hour vibes or early morning for a quiet escape
- Location: Just a short walk from Hotel Blue Horizon, near the former Royal Palace
- What to Bring: A book, a camera, and a relaxed mindset
So, why not start (or end) your Kathmandu adventure with a visit? Trust me, it’s worth it.
Kathmandu Durbar Square – Step Back in Time
Imagine stepping into a living, breathing museum where every stone tells a story, and every carved wooden arts whisper century of royal secrets. Welcome to Kathmandu Durbar Square – a place that’s not just an attraction, but a time machine that’ll transport you right into the heart of Nepal’s most fascinating historical narrative.
How to reach it?
From Hotel Blue Horizon, it’s just 20 to 30 minutes’ walk but you can take a bike carriage (rikshaw) for a unique ride to Kathmandu Durbar Square.
However, do remember that there will be an entrance fee for foreigner people. If you get interested in history and culture of the Durbar Square, we can happily help you get the experience guide too. Also, this is one of the UNESCO world heritage site in Nepal.
Highlights:
One of the highlights is the Nautalle Durbar, a nine-story palace built by King Prithvi Narayan Shah after the unification of Nepal. Another unmissable spot is the Kumari Bahal, home to Nepal’s Living Goddess, the Kumari—a young girl worshipped as the embodiment of Goddess Durga.
Basically, this square is packed with stunning Newar architecture, ancient palaces, and temples that date back to the Malla and Shah dynasties.
Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)
Local legend has it that the entire Kathmandu Valley was once a vast lake where a lotus flower miraculously bloomed. When the bodhisattva Manjushri drained the lake, the lotus transformed into the hill where Swayambhunath now stands. “Swayambhu” actually means “self-created” – how cool is that? Doesn’t this story make you wanna visit the Swyambhunath Stupa?
How to reach it?
If you are staying in Hotel Blue Horizon, the taxi fare is very cheap to go Swyambhunath and only takes 10 to 15 minutes. Now, when you are in the gate, you will have to climb the 365 steps which may be a workout, so better hit your cardio here.
Highlights:
- The central stupa with Buddha’s all-seeing eyes
- Prayer wheels surrounding the base
- Colorful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze
- Small shrines dedicated to various deities
- Ancient Tibetan inscriptions and mandalas
Thamel: The Heart of Kathmandu’s Tourist Scene
Now it sounds interesting right? Thamel is also one of the major attractions for tourists and it is just outside your hotel doorstep. With its narrow, bustling streets packed with shops, cafes, and cultural landmarks, it serves as the ultimate hub for visitors exploring Nepal. It is like a luxury at one place.
About Thamel:
Thamel’s origins trace back to Tha Bahi (थ: बहि), a historic site connected to the Newar community, the indigenous people of the Kathmandu Valley.
Over time, it evolved into a hotspot for international travelers, beginning with the hippie movement in the 1960s and 70s. Today, it remains the go-to destination for adventurers, culture enthusiasts, and those looking to experience the essence of Kathmandu.
Generally, Thamel acts as a pre-base camp for mountaineers and trekkers heading to the Himalayas. Numerous trekking agencies, gear shops, and foreign exchange booths cater to travelers preparing for high-altitude adventures.
Final Thoughts:
So, these are the major attraction near our Hotel Blue Horizon which are just a 10 to 15 min adventure. Now, your turn! Which of these spots are you hitting first? Let us know at the front desk, and we’d be happy to help you plan your day!