The Kathmandu Valley's three historic cities — Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur — each have their own medieval Durbar Square and distinct Newar character. Patan (30 minutes south) is often considered the most beautifully preserved and has the best museum of Nepalese art. Bhaktapur (45 minutes east) is the most complete medieval town, with a car-free centre and far fewer tourists than the other two.
Nagarkot, 32 km east at 2,175 metres, is the standard escape for mountain views — on clear mornings (October–November especially) you can see the entire Himalayan range from Dhaulagiri to Kangchenjunga. Dhulikhel, further east on the Kodari Highway at 1,500 metres, is quieter and has similar views with a more relaxed atmosphere.
Chitwan National Park is a full day's journey south but can be done as a two- or three-night extension rather than a day trip; it offers rhino and tiger spotting in the lowland jungle.
