Cultural and Religious Sites
Swayambhunath Stupa

Swayambhunath Stupa is a Buddhist stupa in Nepal. There are thousands of monkeys around the stupa and hill which led to the name Monkey temple.
Situated on top of the hill, the stupa offers a panoramic views of entire Kathmandu Valley.
The stupa is also listed in UNESCO World heritage site.
The stupa and hill are surrounded by prayer wheel with Buddhist mantras.
Legend says the stupa was self-created while historians believe the stupa was built around 5th century. The stupa holds a great story.
Kathmandu Durbar Square

Kathmandu Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage site. History and culture enrichens the site. The place is famous for its traditional Newari architecture. Lots of attractive arts along with beautifully carved temples and building.
The place also has home of the living goddess Kumari known as Kumari Ghar.
There are lots of palaces, temples, and statues around Kathmandu Durbar Square. As it consists of lots of cultural and historical arts and architecture, the place is very important.
Narayanhiti Palace Museum
Narayanhiti Palace Museum used to be the royal home of the King of Nepal.
The royal palace was converted to a public museum showcasing the royal lifestyle of Nepal.
Once a royal residence is now a public museum.
After the end of monarchy, Nepal turned into a republic from a Kingdom. Narayanhiti Palace Museum is a symbol of this historical change.
The museum shows grand reception halls, throne hall, state banquet hall, royal living room, foreign gifts, historical photographs, and displays.
The place is a great way of exploring royal lifestyle of Nepal.
Trekking, and Hiking Adventure Nearby
Happyland Treks

Happyland Treks is a locally owned travel and trekking agency located in Thamel Paknajol.
With more than one and a half decades of experience, Offer wide range of trekking, hiking, and tour packages. The packages include:
Kathmandu City Tour
Everest Base Camp
Annapurna Circuit
White Water Rafting
Hiking near by Kathmandu
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
Annapurna Base Camp - ABC
Mountain Flight Everest Himalayas
Langtang Trekking, and many more.
They also provide shorter treks, day hikes, sightseeing and customized itineraries.
If you’re a planning to do a trek or want to explore Kathmandu Valley, they are the perfect partner for you.
Museums and Historical Centers
National Museum of Nepal
National Museum of Nepal is one of the oldest museums of Nepal. Visitors can learn about history, art and culture of Nepal. There is a rich collection of ancient sculptures, traditional weapons, and coins from different period.
The museum also presents Buddhist and Hindu art and religious items.
The museum is perfect for slow and learning exploration.
National History Museum
National History Museum is a museum mainly about science and nature and highlights the importance of environmental conservation.
The museum preserves and presents natural history and biodiversity of Nepal.
Museums shows different fossils, preserved minerals, animals, birds, and insects.
The museum is especially popular among students, researches, and someone interested in nature and science.
Lots of Schools and colleges of Nepal takes their students for educational visit.
Military Museum
As the name itself says, Military Museum shows the history and different eras of the Nepalese army. Museum displays uniforms, medals, weapons and historical documents of Nepalese army.
People can learn how Nepal fought and the bravery of Nepalese army including the Gurkhas.
Lots of weapons, uniforms and war information is highlighted in the museum.
It is a perfect place to learn about the history of Nepalese army and their bravery.
Garden and Relaxation Spots
Garden of Dreams

Garden of Dreams is located just around the Tourist Hub of Nepal, Thamel.
The garden was known as Garden of Six Seasons. It is because the garden was designed to celebrate all six seasons (Nepal has six seasons).
The garden showcases the mic of European and traditional Nepal style.
Fountains, ponds, stone pathways, flowers, trees and vintage furniture and statues make this garden very peaceful and must visit place in Kathmandu.
Cafes and Restaurants
Sam-Ye Garden Restaurant & Bar
Just 5-minute walk away from Hotel Vajra, the Sam-Ye Garden restaurant and Bar offers a mix of Nepali, Tibetan, and Asian fusion dishes.
The place is perfect for great meals and casual hangout with peaceful cozy garden-style environment.
The Fourth Floor Restaurant and Bar
Just across the road from Sam-Ye, you can find the Fourth Floor Restaurant and Bar.
The restaurant offers a beautiful view of Kathmandu Valley especially from rooftop. Having a meal with great view is surely amazing.
Lamee Cafe

Lamee Café is a cozy and stylish café with relaxing and peaceful vibe and modern décor.
It is just 1-minute walk away from the base of the Monkey Temple. The café has indoor as well as rooftop with beautiful view of the Monkey Temple.
It is clean, spacious and provides great rooftop view.
Himalayan Java

Just opposite to Lamee Café, Himalayan Java is a peaceful spot popular among locals and international tourists.
With clean and comfortable ambience, customer can enjoy wide range of coffee and teas.
Lots of coffee and beverages options with foods and snacks as well.
The Burger House and Crunchy Fried Chicken
The Burger House and Crunchy Fried Chicken is situated just at the base of Swayambhunath stupa.
The place offers variety of burger and crunchy fried chicken. The menu also includes sandwiches, biryani, fries, and light snacks.
It is great for quick bites rather than slow sit-down dining experience.
Markets and Shopping

Chinatown Shopping Center
Chinatown Shopping Center is a shopping center where you can buy clothes, accessories, and everyday goods.
Unlike large malls, this center has more local shopping vibe.
The area around the center shows busy street life with vehicles and crowd walking every time.
The place is good for local shopping experience.
Fruit and Vegetable Marketplace, Kalimati

The fruit and vegetable marketplace in Kalimati is the largest and most important market in Kathmandu.
The market has hundreds of shops selling vegetables and fruits.
It is the largest market that supplies fresh vegetables, fruits, and other agricultural products to the valley.
Almost every shops in Kathmandu buy goods from Kalimati and sell in their shops.
The place is crowded and everywhere you go, you will see vegetables and fruits.
Fish Market, Kalimati
Fish Market in Kalimati is a part of the larger Kalimati fruit and vegetable marketplace.
Fish market includes lots of fish stalls where people buy for consuming themselves and resale as well.
The place provides valley with varieties of fish which locally sourced or imported.
Sports and Recreation
Vajra Futsal

Vajra futsal is an indoor futsal just across Hotel Vajra. It is the nearest place among all mentioned.
The place offers a 5-a-side football court with café. It is ideal for having fun with your friends or families.
The payment is made by the hour.
It’s a great place for football lovers and is also a great way of staying active.
It’s even better as it’s just a road across from the Hotel.
Dasharath – National stadium

Dasharath stadium, called as Dasharath rangasala by Nepalese is the main national stadium of Nepal.
The stadium has hosted major football matches, national games, and cultural events.
Visitors can watch local club games and national games as well.
There is also a separate indoor court for basketball, volleyball, and other indoor sports.
Transportation and Convenience
Tourist Bus Station, Sorahkhutte Kathmandu
Sorahkhutte Bus Station is known as the main departure point for tourist buses. The buses stationed there takes you to popular destinations like Pokhara, Chitwan, and Bandipur.
20-30 min walk away from Hotel Vajra, the station lets you take the buses to your destination.
There will be lots of buses stationed there and bus operators telling people about the places their bus will take.
The buses range from standard to deluxe and you can choose any you want.
If you are travelling somewhere, it is better to arrive 30 minutes early.
United World Trade Center, Tripureshwor
United World Trade Center in Tripureshwor is a big commercial and business hub in Kathmandu.
The place acts both as a shopping center and business hub. There are lots of stores providing clothing and fashions, accessories, foods, and drinks.
Note
Although thamel is the main place, visitors can find travel agencies, shopping, restaurant, café, bar, pub, club, and more.
Conclusion
Kathmandu Valley is filled with varieties of adventure and fun activities. And as you’re staying at Hotel Vajra, there are lots of great places near it.
From cultural and historical insight to food and shopping, the place got it all.
The mentioned places are all near Hotel Vajra and are perfect for you to visit.
Doing fun activities, exploring and learning more and immersing in local culture and religion is a great way of utilizing your time.
Explore and discover more of Nepal. Enjoy your time in Nepal.
FAQs
What are the must-visit places near Hotel Vajra?
Swayambhunath Stupa, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Garden of Dreams, museums, markets, and local cafés are top picks.
How far is Swayambhunath Stupa from Hotel Vajra?
It’s just a short 15-20 -minute walk away, making it very easy to visit.
Are there good restaurants near Hotel Vajra?
Yes! Options include Sam-Ye Garden, The Fourth Floor, Lamee Café, Himalayan Java, and The Burger House.
Can I do trekking or adventure activities?
Absolutely. Happyland Treks offers short hikes and Himalayan trekking adventures nearby.
Is Dasharath – National Stadium or sports facilities accessible from Hotel Vajra?
Yes, both Dasharath – National Stadium and Vajra Futsal are nearby for sports and recreation.
What cultural sites can I explore around Hotel Vajra?
Swayambhunath Stupa, Kathmandu Durbar Square, and Narayanhiti Royal Palace Museum showcase Nepal’s rich culture and history.
How can I travel from Hotel Vajra to other cities in Nepal?
The Tourist Bus Station at Sorahkhutte Kathmandu is nearby, with buses to Pokhara, and Chitwan.
Are taxis and transport easily available near Hotel Vajra?
Yes, taxis, ride apps, and local transport are widely available for sightseeing and nearby travel.
How long should I spend exploring the area near Hotel Vajra?
Depending on your pace, 1–2 full days can cover major temples, museums, gardens, and markets.
Are there family-friendly places near Hotel Vajra?
Yes, Garden of Dreams, museums, local cafés, and markets are suitable for families and children.