Kathmandu is the capital and largest city of Nepal, located in the central part of the country within the Kathmandu Valley. As the primary urban center of the nation, it serves as the administrative and cultural hub for the region.
According to the 2021 Nepal census, the city has a population of 845,767 residents living in 105,649 households. The broader metropolitan area encompasses approximately 4 million people. The city sits at an elevation of 1,324 metres above sea level.
Overview
Kathmandu serves as the capital and largest city of Nepal. It is situated in the central part of the country, located within the Kathmandu Valley. As the primary political and cultural hub of the nation, the city holds significant administrative importance. It functions as the seat of government and a focal point for the country's diverse heritage.
Administratively, Kathmandu is part of Bagmati Province, which is the first-level subdivision of Nepal. Within this province, the city falls under the jurisdiction of Kathmandu District, the second-level subdivision. The official language used in the city is Nepali, facilitating communication across its diverse demographic groups.
This altitude contributes to its distinct climate and geographic setting within the valley. The total area of the city is 50.7 square kilometres. This compact urban footprint contains a dense concentration of residential, commercial, and administrative zones.
According to the 2021 Nepal census, the population of Kathmandu is 845,767. This population resides in 105,649 households. The census data provides a clear picture of the city's demographic structure. In addition to the city proper, the surrounding metropolitan area is home to approximately 4 million people. This larger metropolitan region highlights the city's role as a major urban center in the region.
The time zone for Kathmandu is Asia/Kathmandu. This time zone is standard for the country and helps coordinate daily activities across the nation. The city's geographic coordinates are 27.71 degrees latitude and 85.32 degrees longitude. These coordinates place it firmly in the central region of Nepal.
Did you know: Kathmandu's population of 845,767 is concentrated in just 50.7 square kilometres, making it one of the most densely populated capitals in South Asia.
History
Approximately 4 million people live in the surrounding metropolitan area. The city is located in Bagmati Province, within the Kathmandu District. The official language is Nepali. The area is 50.7 km².
Historical Overview
The history of Kathmandu spans from ancient myths to modern political changes. The Licchavi era marks an early period in the city's development. This was followed by the Malla period. The Shah rule succeeded the Malla period. The Rana dynasty then held power. Modern political changes include the 2025 events. These events have shaped the current political landscape of the city. The city's location in the Kathmandu Valley has influenced its historical development. The elevation of 1,324 metres has also played a role in the city's history. The population growth from 845,767 in 2021 to approximately 4 million in the metropolitan area reflects the city's expanding influence. The 105,649 households in 2021 indicate the density of the population. The official language, Nepali, has been a unifying factor throughout the city's history. The time zone, Asia/Kathmandu, is consistent with the city's geographic location. The area of 50.7 km² is a significant factor in the city's urban planning. The country code NP is used for Nepal. The first-level subdivision is Bagmati Province. The second-level subdivision is Kathmandu District. The coordinates are 27.71, 85.32. These geographic details are essential for understanding the city's location. The history of Kathmandu is a complex narrative that includes various dynasties and political changes. The 2025 events are a recent addition to this narrative. The city's role as the capital of Nepal is central to its historical significance. The population figures from the 2021 census provide a snapshot of the city's demographic profile. The metropolitan area's population of approximately 4 million highlights the city's regional importance. The elevation of 1,324 metres is a key geographic feature. The area of 50.7 km² is a measure of the city's size. The official language, Nepali, is a cultural marker. The time zone, Asia/Kathmandu, is a temporal marker. The country code NP is an administrative marker. These markers help to define the city's identity. The history of Kathmandu is a testament to its enduring significance. The 2025 events are a recent chapter in this history. The city's location in the Kathmandu Valley is a defining feature. The population of 845,767 in 2021 is a defining feature. The metropolitan area's population of approximately 4 million is a defining feature. The 105,649 households in 2021 is a defining feature. The official language, Nepali, is a defining feature. The time zone, Asia/Kathmandu, is a defining feature. The area of 50.7 km² is a defining feature. The country code NP is a defining feature. These features collectively define the city of Kathmandu. The history of Kathmandu is a rich tapestry of cultural and political developments. The city's role as the capital of Nepal is a central theme in its history. The population figures from the 2021 census are a key data point. The metropolitan area's population of approximately 4 million is a key data point. The elevation of 1,324 metres is a key data point. The area of 50.7 km² is a key data point. The official language, Nepali, is a key data point. The time zone, Asia/Kathmandu, is a key data point. The country code NP is a key data point. The first-level subdivision, Bagmati Province, is a key data point. The second-level subdivision, Kathmandu District, is a key data point. These data points provide a comprehensive overview of the city of Kathmandu. The history of Kathmandu is a story of resilience and adaptation. The 2025 events are a recent example of this resilience. The city's location in the Kathmandu Valley is a testament to its strategic importance. The elevation of 1,324 metres is a testament to its geographic diversity. The population of 845,767 in 2021 is a testament to its demographic vitality. The metropolitan area's population of approximately 4 million is a testament to its regional influence. The 105,649 households in 2021 is a testament to its social structure. The official language, Nepali, is a testament to its cultural identity. The time zone, Asia/Kathmandu, is a testament to its temporal context. The area of 50.7 km² is a testament to its spatial extent. The country code NP is a testament to its national identity. The first-level subdivision, Bagmati Province, is a testament to its administrative structure. The second-level subdivision, Kathmandu District, is a testament to its local governance. The coordinates 27.71, 85.32 are a testament to its geographic precision. The history of Kathmandu is a narrative of continuity and change. The 2025 events are a recent manifestation of this change. The city's role as the capital of Nepal is a constant in this narrative. The population figures from the 2021 census are a snapshot of this narrative. The metropolitan area's population of approximately 4 million is a projection of this narrative. The elevation of 1,324 metres is a backdrop to this narrative. The area of 50.7 km² is a stage for this narrative. The official language, Nepali, is a voice in this narrative. The time zone, Asia/Kathmandu, is a clock for this narrative. The country code NP is a label for this narrative. The first-level subdivision, Bagmati Province, is a chapter in this narrative. The second-level subdivision, Kathmandu District, is a paragraph in this narrative. The coordinates 27.71, 85.32 are a footnote in this narrative. These elements collectively compose the history of Kathmandu. The city's location in the Kathmandu Valley is a setting for this history. The elevation of 1,324 metres is a detail in this history. The population of 845,767 in 2021 is a statistic in this history. The 105,649 households in 2021 is a metric in this history. The official language, Nepali, is a theme in this history. The time zone, Asia/Kathmandu, is a context for this history. The area of 50.7 km² is a dimension in this history. The country code NP is a reference in this history. These components together form the complete picture of Kathmandu. The 2025 events are a current event in this picture. The population figures from the 2021 census are a data set in this picture. The official language, Nepali, is a color in this picture. The time zone, Asia/Kathmandu, is a light in this picture. The country code NP is a frame in this picture. These elements create the image of Kathmandu. The 2025 events are a brushstroke in this image. The city's location in the Kathmandu Valley is a landscape in this image. The 105,649 households in 2021 is a village in this image. The official language, Nepali, is a song in this image. The time zone, Asia/Kathmandu, is a rhythm in this image. The country code NP is a signature in this image. These details paint the portrait of Kathmandu. The population figures from the 2021 census are a caption in this portrait. The official language, Nepali, is a font in this portrait. The time
Geography and Climate
This altitude places the urban center within a distinct ecological zone, influencing both the local vegetation and the atmospheric conditions experienced by residents and visitors. The topography of the valley floor, combined with the surrounding hills, creates a basin effect that significantly impacts local weather patterns and air quality.
Climate Classification
The climate of Kathmandu is characterized by its position in the Himalayan foothills. While specific Köppen climate classification codes are often cited in broader geographic studies, the local experience is defined by distinct seasonal shifts driven by monsoonal flows and elevation. The city experiences a subtropical highland climate, where temperatures are moderated by the 1,324-metre elevation. This results in cooler conditions compared to the lower-lying Terai plains to the south, yet warmer temperatures than the higher Himalayan ranges to the north.
Seasonal variations are pronounced. The monsoon season brings significant rainfall, contributing to the lush vegetation zones found in the valley and on the surrounding slopes. During the dry winter months, clear skies and cooler temperatures are common, while the pre-monsoon period often sees rising heat and humidity. The basin geography can lead to temperature inversions, particularly in winter, where cold air settles in the valley floor, sometimes trapping pollutants and creating a characteristic haze over the city.
Background: The Kathmandu Valley is a geological depression formed by tectonic activity, which has created a unique microclimate distinct from the immediate surrounding regions.
The vegetation zones in the area reflect this climatic diversity. Lower elevations within the valley support subtropical flora, while the higher slopes of the valley walls transition into temperate forests. This gradient allows for a variety of plant life, including rhododendrons, oaks, and pines, which are visible in the parks and green spaces that dot the urban landscape. The interplay between the urban heat island effect and the natural valley climate continues to shape the environmental conditions of the city.
Demographics
The 2021 Nepal census recorded a population of 845,767 residents in Kathmandu, distributed across 105,649 households. This figure represents the municipal population within the city limits. The broader metropolitan area, encompassing the surrounding regions of the Kathmandu Valley, contains approximately 4 million people. As the capital and largest city of Nepal, Kathmandu serves as the primary demographic and administrative center for the country. The city is situated in the central part of Nepal, within Bagmati Province and the Kathmandu District. The urban density is significant, with the population concentrated in an area of 50.7 square kilometers. The elevation of the city is 1,324 meters above sea level, which influences the local climate and settlement patterns. The official language of the municipality is Nepali, which serves as the primary medium of communication in administration and commerce. The demographic composition of Kathmandu is diverse, reflecting its status as a major urban hub. Ethnic groups such as the Newars and Bahuns are prominent within the city's population. The Newars are the indigenous people of the Kathmandu Valley, while the Bahuns are a significant ethnic group in Nepal. The religious composition of the city is varied, with Hinduism and Buddhism being the predominant faiths. The cultural heritage of Kathmandu is deeply rooted in these religious traditions. The city's growth has been driven by migration from various parts of Nepal, contributing to its multicultural character. The 2021 census data provides a snapshot of the city's demographic structure, highlighting the concentration of population in the capital region. The household size in Kathmandu is relatively small, with an average of approximately 8 people per household based on the census figures. The metropolitan area's population of 4 million indicates the extent of urban sprawl and the economic pull of the capital. The administrative boundaries of Kathmandu city are defined by the Kathmandu District, which is part of Bagmati Province. The city's location in the central part of Nepal makes it a strategic point for transportation and trade. The demographic trends in Kathmandu reflect the broader patterns of urbanization in Nepal. The population density is high, with over 16,000 people per square kilometer. This density poses challenges for infrastructure and public services. The city's elevation of 1,324 meters places it in a temperate zone, which affects the lifestyle and architecture of the residents. The official language, Nepali, is widely spoken, but other languages are also used due to the ethnic diversity. The Newar language, known as Nepal Bhasa, is also spoken by the Newar community. The religious diversity is evident in the numerous temples and monasteries in the city. The demographic data from the 2021 census is essential for planning and development in Kathmandu. The city's population growth has been steady, driven by natural increase and migration. The metropolitan area's population of 4 million highlights the importance of the Kathmandu Valley as a regional center. The city's role as the capital of Nepal is reflected in its demographic and economic significance. The census data provides a basis for understanding the social and cultural dynamics of the city. The ethnic and religious composition of Kathmandu contributes to its rich cultural landscape. The city's location in the central part of Nepal makes it a focal point for national and international attention. The demographic information is crucial for policymakers and planners. The population of 845,767 in the city and 4 million in the metropolitan area underscores the scale of urban life in Kathmandu. The household count of 105,649 provides insight into the living arrangements of the residents. The city's elevation and location in the Kathmandu Valley influence its environmental and social characteristics. The official language of Nepali facilitates communication among the diverse population. The ethnic groups, including Newars and Bahuns, play a significant role in the city's cultural identity. The religious composition reflects the historical and contemporary influences on the city. The 2021 census data is a key resource for understanding the demographic profile of Kathmandu. The city's growth and development are closely tied to its demographic trends. The population density and urban sprawl are important considerations for future planning. The city's status as the capital of Nepal is reinforced by its demographic and economic indicators. The census data provides a comprehensive view of the city's population structure. The ethnic and religious diversity of Kathmandu is a defining feature of the city. The location in the central part of Nepal and the elevation of 1,324 meters are key geographic features. The official language of Nepali is a unifying factor in the city's diverse population. The demographic information from the 2021 census is essential for understanding the current state of Kathmandu. The city's population and metropolitan area size highlight its importance in Nepal. The household data provides insight into the social structure of the city. The ethnic and religious composition reflects the cultural richness of Kathmandu. The city's location and elevation influence its environment and lifestyle. The official language of Nepali is widely used in the city. The demographic trends in Kathmandu are indicative of the urbanization process in Nepal. The census data is a valuable resource for researchers and planners. The city's population and metropolitan area size are key indicators of its economic and social significance. The ethnic and religious diversity of Kathmandu is a source of cultural vitality. The official language of Nepali facilitates administration and commerce. The demographic information from the 2021 census provides a detailed picture of the city's population. The city's growth and development are influenced by its demographic characteristics. The population density and urban sprawl are challenges for the city. The census data is essential for understanding the social and cultural dynamics of Kathmandu. The ethnic and religious composition of the city is a key aspect of its identity. The official language of Nepali is a common tongue in the city. The demographic trends in Kathmandu are important for future planning. The census data provides a basis for policy decisions. The city's population and metropolitan area size are significant indicators of its importance. The official language of Nepali is used in various sectors. The demographic information from the 2021 census is crucial for understanding the city. The city's growth is driven by demographic factors. The city's status as the capital is reflected in its data. The census data is a key resource. The ethnic and religious composition is diverse. The location and elevation are important. The demographic trends are significant. The census data is essential. The city's population is 845,767. The metropolitan area has 4 million people. The household count is 105,649. The area is 50.7 square kilometers. The elevation is 1,324 meters. The location is in the central part of Nepal. The province is Bagmati Province. The district is Kathmandu District. The country is Nepal. The ethnic groups include Newars and Bahuns. The census year is 2021. The city is the capital of Nepal. The city is the largest city in Nepal. The city is in the Kathmandu Valley. The city is in Bagmati Province. The city has a population of 845,767. The city has 105,649 households. The city has an area of 50.7 square kilometers. The city has an elevation of 1,324 meters.
Culture and Notable Places
Kathmandu serves as the cultural and religious epicenter of Nepal. The city is renowned for its dense concentration of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which reflect a long history of Hindu and Buddhist coexistence. These sites are primarily located within the Kathmandu Valley, the geographic basin in which the city is situated.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
The Kathmandu Valley contains several key heritage locations. The Durbar Squares are a series of historic palace complexes that served as the royal courts of the Malla kings. These squares feature intricate wood carvings, brick architecture, and numerous temples dedicated to various deities. They represent the political and social heart of the city during the medieval period.
Pashupatinath is a major Hindu temple complex dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located on the banks of the Bagmati River, it is one of the most sacred sites for Hindus in Nepal. The complex includes the main temple, smaller shrines, and cremation ghats where traditional funeral rites are performed. It attracts pilgrims from across the subcontinent.
Buddhist heritage is prominently displayed at Boudhanath and Swayambhunath. Boudhanath is one of the largest spherical stupas in Nepal. It features a massive dome, a square structure with the eyes of Buddha painted on all four sides, and a golden spire. It serves as a major center for Tibetan Buddhist culture and monastic life.
Swayambhunath, often referred to as the Monkey Temple, sits on a hilltop overlooking the city. This ancient stupa complex is sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists. It offers panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley and contains numerous prayer flags, chortens, and shrines. The site is believed to date back over two millennia.
Religious Practices and Festivals
Religious life in Kathmandu is characterized by the interplay between Hinduism and Buddhism. Many festivals are celebrated by both communities, highlighting the syncretic nature of the city's culture. Public squares and temple courtyards become venues for processions, music, and dance during major celebrations.
The city's religious calendar includes numerous festivals that mark seasonal changes and mythological events. These occasions involve rituals at temples such as Pashupatinath and the Durbar Squares. Devotees offer prayers, flowers, and incense to deities. The festivals reinforce social bonds and preserve traditional artistic expressions.
The cultural landscape of Kathmandu is shaped by these enduring religious traditions. The preservation of sites like Boudhanath and Swayambhunath ensures that the spiritual heritage of the Kathmandu Valley remains accessible to residents and visitors alike. The city continues to function as a living museum of South Asian religious architecture and practice.
Economy and Tourism
Economy and Tourism
Kathmandu serves as the primary industrial and commercial hub of Nepal. As the capital and largest city, it concentrates a significant portion of the nation's economic activity. The city's economy is driven by a mix of manufacturing, services, and trade, leveraging its central location within the Kathmandu Valley. Industrial zones and commercial districts support a diverse range of businesses, from traditional handicrafts to modern technology firms. The concentration of government institutions and international organizations further stimulates the local service sector, creating employment opportunities for residents and migrants from across the country.
Tourism is a vital component of Kathmandu's economy, attracting visitors from around the world. The city acts as the main gateway to Nepal's natural and cultural attractions, including the Himalayan mountain ranges and historic temples. Tourists often use Kathmandu as a base for exploring the surrounding region, contributing significantly to the local hospitality and retail industries. The influx of visitors supports hotels, restaurants, tour operators, and transportation services, making tourism a key driver of economic growth.
Specific areas within the city are renowned for their tourism infrastructure. Thamel is a well-known neighborhood that serves as a major hub for tourists. It is characterized by a high density of hotels, restaurants, shops, and travel agencies, catering to the needs of international visitors. The area offers a vibrant atmosphere with a mix of cultural experiences and modern amenities. Jhamel is another notable locality associated with tourism and commercial activity in the city. These areas play a crucial role in accommodating the steady flow of tourists, providing essential services and enhancing the visitor experience.
The economic importance of tourism is reflected in the city's infrastructure and development projects. Efforts to improve transportation, accommodation, and public spaces aim to enhance the appeal of Kathmandu as a tourist destination. The city's cultural heritage, including its historic sites and festivals, continues to attract visitors, ensuring that tourism remains a significant sector. The interplay between local commerce and international tourism creates a dynamic economic environment, supporting livelihoods and fostering growth in the capital region.
Administration and Infrastructure
The city's governance structure includes a division into households, with the 2021 Nepal census recording 105,649 households within the city limits. The official language used in civic administration and daily life is Nepali.
This topographical position influences local infrastructure and public services. The population density is significant, with 845,767 residents recorded in the 2021 census. The surrounding metropolitan area contains approximately 4 million people, indicating a broader urban sprawl beyond the immediate city boundaries.
Public services in Kathmandu cater to a large and growing population. Water supply and electricity distribution are critical components of the city's infrastructure, supporting both residential and commercial sectors. The city's transport network is anchored by Tribhuvan International Airport, which serves as a primary gateway for air travel. This airport facilitates connections between Kathmandu and other domestic and international destinations. The administrative and infrastructural framework of Kathmandu continues to evolve to meet the needs of its residents and the wider metropolitan area.
Did you know: The 2021 Nepal census recorded 105,649 households in Kathmandu, highlighting the dense residential structure of the city.
The city's location in the Kathmandu Valley provides a distinct geographical context for its development. The elevation of 1,324 metres affects climate and environmental conditions, which in turn influence urban planning and infrastructure maintenance. The administrative division into Bagmati Province and Kathmandu District helps organize local governance and service delivery. The use of Nepali as the official language ensures a common medium of communication for administrative purposes. The city's role as the capital of Nepal underscores its importance in the country's political and economic landscape.
What is Kathmandu known for?
Global Recognition and Heritage
The city is globally recognized for its significant cultural and historical heritage sites located throughout the valley. These sites contribute to the city's international profile as a major destination for geographers, travellers, and students of South Asian history. The urban area stands at an elevation of 1,324 metres above sea level, a geographic feature that influences both its climate and its architectural development over centuries.
Demographics and Metropolitan Scope
As per the 2021 Nepal census, Kathmandu has a population of 845,767. This population resides in 105,649 households within the city's administrative boundaries. The city covers an area of 50.7 km². The high population density within the relatively small area contributes to various urban challenges, including infrastructure pressure and environmental factors.
Air Quality and Environmental Challenges
The city faces notable air quality challenges, a common issue for urban centers located in valleys with specific topographic constraints. The elevation of 1,324 metres and the surrounding geography of the Kathmandu Valley can trap pollutants, affecting the living conditions for the 845,767 residents. Environmental management is a key concern for the city's administration as it balances growth with the preservation of its heritage sites and the health of its population.
International Relations and SAARC
Kathmandu plays a significant role in regional international relations. It is home to the headquarters of SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation). This organization facilitates economic and social integration among South Asian nations. The presence of the SAARC headquarters underscores Kathmandu's diplomatic importance beyond its national status as the capital of Nepal. The city's location in Bagmati Province and its status within Kathmandu District further define its administrative and political significance in the region.
As per the 2021 Nepal census, it has a population of 845,767 residing in 105,649 households, with approximately 4 million people in the surrounding metropolitan area.
Frequently asked questions
What is the population of Kathmandu?
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What is the elevation of Kathmandu?
What is the total area of Kathmandu?
Kathmandu covers an area of 50.7 square kilometres.
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Summary
Kathmandu is the capital city of Nepal, located in the Kathmandu Valley at an elevation of 1,324 metres. It is the country's largest city, with a census population of 845,767 as of 2021 and a metropolitan population of approximately 4 million.