Kathmandu Height From Sea Level – Altitude, Climate & Geographic Guide
Kathmandu Height From Sea Level – Kathmandu, the capital and largest city of Nepal, is one of South Asia’s most historic and culturally rich cities. Built in a bowl-shaped valley and surrounded by hills and mountains, Kathmandu’s elevation plays a crucial role in its climate, culture, and environment. In this complete guide, we explore Kathmandu height from sea level, its geographical setting, weather influences, and what this elevation means for residents and travelers alike. Shaanxi Government+1
What Is Kathmandu Height From Sea Level?
Kathmandu stands at an **average elevation of approximately 1,324 meters (4,344 feet) above sea level in the heart of the Kathmandu Valley. Travalora
Different data sources report slightly varied figures due to topography — for instance, some maps show Kathmandu’s central elevation around 1,296 m (4,252 ft), with parts of the city ranging higher due to rolling terrain. Elevation City
However, the widely accepted average for Kathmandu city (often cited in geographic and travel sources) is about 1,300–1,400 m above sea level. Shaanxi Government
Kathmandu Valley Elevation Range
Kathmandu isn’t flat. It sits within a valley whose elevation varies:
| Feature | Elevation From Sea Level |
|---|---|
| Kathmandu city average | ~1,324 m (4,344 ft) Travalora |
| Lowest elevation areas in the valley | ~1,275 m (~4,186 ft) Topographic maps |
| Highest points around | ~1,885 m (~6,184 ft) in nearby hills Topographic maps |
| Kathmandu Valley range | ~1,200 m to ~2,300 m Vivanta Hotels |
The valley’s “bowl” shape means the city center lies lower than some hillside localities and higher than river valleys — a terrain that contributes to varied micro-climates and scenic views. Shaanxi Government
Where Is Kathmandu Located?
Kathmandu is the capital city of Nepal and the administrative center of Bagmati Province. Shaanxi Government It lies in central Nepal within the Kathmandu Valley, surrounded by hills like Shivapuri, Phulchoki, Nagarjun, and Chandragiri — all of which rise well above the city’s elevation and shape its geographical identity. Travalora
The valley itself was once a large lake basin that, over millions of years, drained and became fertile land for human settlement. Today, Kathmandu remains a cultural, political, and economic hub of Nepal. CwIS FSM
How Elevation Influences Kathmandu’s Climate
Kathmandu’s altitude has a direct effect on its weather and seasons:
Mild Summers
Kathmandu experiences summer temperatures that are generally moderate for a South Asian city, with warm days and cooler evenings. The elevation prevents extreme heat compared to lower plains areas. Travalora
Monsoon Season
From June to September, the valley receives monsoon rains. Although rainfall can be heavy, the elevation and surrounding hills help disperse clouds and reduce prolonged humidity compared with densely forested mountains. Vivanta Hotels
Cool Winters
Winters are cool and pleasant, with temperatures occasionally dipping closer to freezing at night. Kathmandu’s elevation — higher than many Indian cities — gives it distinct seasonal variations with refreshing winter mornings and crisp breeze. Travalora
Overall, the elevation contributes to a temperate climate, often classified as a subtropical highland climate (Cwb) — with mild summers and cool winters. Travalora
Topography and Surroundings
Kathmandu is nestled in a valley surrounded by hill ranges that rise well above the city itself:
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Shivapuri Hill – about ~2,732 m above sea level trexmount.com
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Phulchoki Hill – about ~2,791 m above sea level trexmount.com
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Nagarjun Hill – about ~2,128 m above sea level trexmount.com
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Chandragiri Hill – about ~2,551 m above sea level Wikipedia
These elevations are significantly higher than the average city elevation, creating a natural amphitheater around the urban area and influencing weather, water flow, and ecological diversity. Travalora
Access & Travel – Altitude Considerations
By Air
Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) sits within the valley close to the city center. Arriving here, travelers typically land at an elevation that already averages around 1,300 m, so most visitors don’t experience altitude sickness. Shaanxi Government
By Road
The valley is well-connected by road from various parts of Nepal and India. The approach to Kathmandu altitude often includes gradual elevation gain from lower plains and foothills. trexmount.com
Because the city’s elevation is moderate compared to high Himalayan regions, adjustment to altitude is rarely a concern for most travelers. Travalora
Why Kathmandu Elevation Matters
✔ Comfortable Climate
Kathmandu’s elevation makes its climate more temperate and livable than many tropical plains cities, allowing comfortable seasons for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Travalora
✔ Cultural & Historical Setting
Built in a valley at higher elevation, Kathmandu’s geography contributed to the development of distinct Newar culture, unique temples, and historic palaces that thrive in the mild climate. CwIS FSM
✔ Surrounding Hills & Biodiversity
Being surrounded by hills creates diverse micro-ecosystems with forests, wildlife, and scenic trails just a short distance from the urban center. Travalora
Best Time to Visit Kathmandu
| Season | Experience |
|---|---|
| Spring (Mar–May) | Pleasant weather, flowers bloom |
| Summer/Monsoon (Jun–Sep) | Lush green landscapes, rain showers |
| Autumn (Oct–Nov) | Clear skies, ideal trekking weather |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Cool days, crisp mornings |
Autumn and Spring are considered the best seasons for tourism in Kathmandu due to comfortable temperatures and clear mountain views. Travalora
Quick Facts – Kathmandu Height From Sea Level
✔ Kathmandu’s average elevation is approximately 1,324 meters (4,344 feet) above sea level. Travalora
✔ The city lies in the Kathmandu Valley, a bowl-shaped basin surrounded by hills. CwIS FSM
✔ Elevation varies across the valley from roughly 1,275 m to 1,885 m in parts of the terrain. Topographic maps
✔ This altitude contributes to a temperate climate, with moderate summers and cool winters. Travalora
Conclusion
Understanding Kathmandu height from sea level — around 1,324 meters (4,344 feet) — gives insight into why this Himalayan capital has a distinct climate, rich cultural heritage, and scenic surroundings. Whether you’re traveling, studying geography, or exploring urban mountain cities, Kathmandu’s elevation is central to its identity at the heart of Nepal’s historic valley.