KATHMANDU: In a remarkable international recognition, Kathmandu has earned three major accolades in the Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best 2025.

The capital has been listed among the Top 25 World Destinations, ranked in the Best Solo Travel, World category, and placed 7th in the Best Culture, World list.

Tripadvisor’s prestigious Best of the Best recognition is awarded to fewer than 1% of its 8 million listings, based on the highest volume of outstanding traveler reviews and ratings collected over the past year.

“These destinations are our top spots for good reason, they’ve got everything travelers are looking for and more,” notes the Tripadvisor website.

Kathmandu impressed global travelers with its blend of timeless heritage, spiritual atmosphere, and local warmth, qualities that make it especially appealing for solo explorers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

Tripadvisor highlights Kathmandu as a city surrounded by a valley of ancient shrines, monuments, and vibrant villages. 

"Mingle with locals and animals amid Durbar Square’s monuments, or join mountain trekkers in the bustling Thamel District. Explore shops for exquisite work by local artisans, carpets and paper prints are specialties," it noted.

Solo travelers particularly enjoy wandering through Durbar Square, shopping for handmade carpets and paper art, and embarking on multi-day hikes from the bustling Thamel district.

In the Top 25 World Destinations category, Kathmandu ranks 21st, below Edinburgh and New Delhi, with London, Bali, and Dubai taking the top spots. 

For Solo Travel – World, it ranks just below Seoul, South Korea. 

Meanwhile, in the Best Culture – World category, Kathmandu is placed at No. 7, reflecting its deep cultural roots and heritage appeal.