Timeline
06:40
Arrive at Kasthamandap. Find a spot on the southwest side of the square where the morning sun will hit the three-storey pagoda structure. The temple enshrines an image of Gorakhnath and was built in the 16th century. The quiet before the crowds arrive is the best part.
06:55
Watch the sunrise. At 06:55, the sun rises and begins casting golden light on the temple by 16:56. The sun sets toward the WSW, illuminating the historic wood and stone.
07:25
Walk three minutes to Himalayan Java Coffee. It is open from 07:00, so this is the perfect time to sit down. Order a cappuccino in the spacious, chic interior. It is a good place to rest after the early start.
Local tip
The coffee shop opens at 07:00. Arriving at the temple at least 15 minutes before sunrise ensures you have a good view without rushing.
Check before you go
- Himalayan Java Coffee opens at 07:00 daily.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Kathmandu (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).