5th ISME South Asia Regional Conference
24-26 November, 2025 – Kathmandu, Nepal
ABOUT KATHMANDU
Kathmandu, the capital and largest city of Nepal, is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends ancient traditions with modern living. Located in the Kathmandu Valley, it serves as the cultural, political, and economic heart of the country. The city is renowned for its rich history, dating back over 2,000 years, and is a treasure trove of art, architecture, and heritage. Visitors are often mesmerized by its intricate temples, traditional Newari houses, and vibrant streets, which provide a window into the city’s fascinating past. The ever-present prayer flags, spinning prayer wheels, and the scent of incense create an atmosphere of spiritual tranquility, reflecting Kathmandu’s deep-rooted connection to Hinduism and Buddhism.
The city’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), and Kathmandu Durbar Square, are must-visit landmarks that showcase its architectural grandeur and religious significance. Kathmandu is also a gateway to exploring the Himalayas, attracting trekkers and adventurers from around the globe. Thamel, a popular tourist district, buzzes with energy, offering an array of shops, restaurants, and trekking gear outlets. Despite the challenges posed by rapid urbanization and natural disasters, Kathmandu remains a city of resilience, where tradition and modernity coexist in harmony. Its rich culture, warm hospitality, and stunning landscapes make it a truly unforgettable destination.4o
Snapshot Of City
LANGUAGE
Nepali & Maithili
CURRENCY
Indian Rupee (US$ 1 = ~₹62)
WEATHER IN NOVEMBER
cool and dry 7-23℃(44.6-73.4℉) of rain
PREFFERED GREETING
Namaste
TIME ZONE
Time zone in Nepal (GMT+5:45)
Music
Kathmandu, the cultural heart of Nepal, is renowned for its rich and diverse musical heritage, which reflects the city’s ethnic and cultural diversity. Traditional music holds a prominent place, deeply intertwined with religious practices, festivals, and daily life. Instruments such as the sarangi (a stringed instrument), bansuri (bamboo flute), madal (a hand drum), and dhimay (a traditional drum) are integral to various ceremonies and performances. The Newar community, indigenous to the Kathmandu Valley, has a particularly rich musical tradition, with ensembles performing during rituals and cultural events.
Kathmandu is also a hub for music education and preservation. Institutions such as the Kathmandu University Department of Music and the Kathmandu Jazz Conservatory offer programs that range from ethnomusicology to contemporary genres like jazz. The Playing For Change Foundation’s Kathmandu Music Program brings music education to younger generations, ensuring the transmission of traditional and modern musical skills.
Food
Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, boasts a rich and diverse culinary heritage that reflects its cultural and ethnic diversity. The city’s cuisine is a harmonious blend of traditional Nepalese flavors, with significant influences from neighboring regions, particularly Tibet and India.A staple dish in Kathmandu is dal bhat, consisting of steamed rice (bhat) accompanied by lentil soup (dal), often served with vegetable curries, pickles (achar), and sometimes chutney. This meal forms the cornerstone of daily diets for many residents.
Another iconic delicacy is the momo, a type of dumpling that originated from Tibet. These dumplings, filled with buffalo meat, chicken, or vegetables, have become a popular fast food in Kathmandu, available from street vendors to high-end restaurants.The Newar community, indigenous to the Kathmandu Valley, has significantly contributed to the city’s gastronomic landscape. Their cuisine is known for its variety and complexity, featuring dishes like kwāti (a soup made from different beans), chhoylā (spiced grilled buffalo meat), and wo (lentil cakes). Fermented preparations and the use of buffalo meat are notable aspects of Newar
Tourism
Kathmandu, the vibrant capital of Nepal, is a hub for tourism, offering a mix of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Known as the “Gateway to the Himalayas,” the city attracts adventurers, cultural enthusiasts, and spiritual seekers from around the globe. Its unique blend of ancient traditions and modern vibrancy makes it a must-visit destination.Kathmandu also serves as a base for trekking and mountaineering adventures. Visitors often begin their journeys to the Everest Base Camp or the Annapurna Circuit from this city. For nature enthusiasts, nearby destinations like the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park offer opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation.