If you are exploring Kathmandu, visiting Swayambhunath Stupa popularly known as the Monkey Temple is a must. But after climbing the steps and soaking in the views, you’ll probably crave a good cup of coffee or a delicious meal. That’s when you need to know the Best cafe Swayambhu has to offer. From cozy bakeries to rooftop cafés with panoramic views, the area around the stupa is filled with gems that serve tasty dishes at affordable prices.
In this guide, I’ll take you through the top 10 Best cafe Swayambhu options, complete with signature dishes, price ranges, and what visitors are saying. Whether you’re a backpacker on a budget, a digital nomad looking for Wi-Fi and ambiance, or a food lover chasing authentic Nepali flavors, this list will help you pick the perfect café near Swayambhu.
1. BIA Café – A Quiet Reading Spot
BIA Café is often rated as the Best cafe Swayambhu for those who love a bookish vibe. Tucked away in Kimdol, this café is filled with books, cozy seating, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Best cafe Swayambhu – BIA Café
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Specialties: Strong black coffee, pancakes, vegetarian meals.
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Price Range: NPR 200 – 500 (approx.)
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Google Reviews: Guests love its peaceful environment, making it perfect for studying or relaxing.
2. Swayambhu Coffee House – Affordable & Authentic
Located right after the temple entrance, Swayambhu Coffee House is a local favorite and widely considered the Best cafe Swayambhu for budget travelers.
swayambhu coffee house
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Specialties: Masala tea, keema noodles, thenduk, momo soup.
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Price Range: NPR 150 – 400.
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Google Reviews: Visitors highlight its quick service, friendly staff, and tasty food at unbeatable prices.
3. Momo and Pizza House – Best Momo Plates
For momo lovers, this is easily the Best cafe Swayambhu to grab a steaming plate of Nepal’s favorite snack.
Momo and Pizza House
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Specialties: Chicken momo, buff momo, pizza, and burgers.
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Price Range: NPR 200 – 600.
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Google Reviews: “Best momo plate variety I’ve eaten in Nepal” is a common review among travelers.
4. Fine Grains Bakery – Freshly Baked Treats
If you have a sweet tooth, Fine Grains Bakery could be the Best cafe Swayambhu choice for you. It offers homemade bread, cakes, and healthy breakfast options.
fine grains bakery
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Specialties: Omelette sandwich, ginger honey tea, blueberry muffins, chocolate lava cake.
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Price Range: NPR 250 – 700.
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Google Reviews: Guests rave about the sourdough bread and warm hospitality.
5. Kafemandu – Modern Ambiance, Great Coffee
Blending rustic and modern elements, Kafemandu is a stylish yet cozy café often rated as the Best cafe Swayambhu for those who love good coffee and contemporary interiors.
Kafemandu
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Specialties: Pork chops, vegetable momo, chocolate cake, cappuccino.
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Price Range: NPR 300 – 800.
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Google Reviews: Customers appreciate the relaxing vibe and attentive service.
6. Nirvana Café & Restaurant – Scenic Views
Nirvana Café sits close to the stupa and offers a tranquil environment with rooftop seating. Many call it the Best cafe Swayambhu for enjoying breakfast with a view.
Nirvana Café & Restaurant
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Specialties: Nepali breakfast sets, international dishes, smoothies.
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Price Range: NPR 300 – 900.
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Google Reviews: Reviewers love its views of the city and the stupa, alongside delicious coffee.
7. Kimdol Coffee Spot – Hidden Gem
For those who enjoy local, lesser-known spots, Kimdol Coffee Spot is among the Best cafe Swayambhu choices. It’s small but offers heartwarming service.
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Specialties: Simple Nepali tea, snacks, and homemade momo.
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Price Range: NPR 100 – 400.
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Google Reviews: Popular for its authenticity and friendly owners.
8. The White Lotus Café – Peaceful Vibes
White Lotus Café stands out as the Best cafe Swayambhu for travelers who want to unwind after exploring the stupa. Its calm environment makes it perfect for meditation or casual chats.
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Specialties: Herbal teas, vegetarian dishes, cakes.
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Price Range: NPR 200 – 500.
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Google Reviews: People often describe it as “a peaceful escape near the Monkey Temple.”
9. Monkey View Café – Rooftop Dining
As the name suggests, Monkey View Café is one of the Best cafe Swayambhu spots to enjoy a rooftop meal while watching monkeys play around the temple area.
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Specialties: Fried rice, thukpa, Nepali thali.
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Price Range: NPR 250 – 600.
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Google Reviews: Guests recommend visiting during sunset for beautiful skyline views.
10. Café De Stupa – Modern Meets Traditional
Café De Stupa blends modern menu items with traditional Nepali flavors, securing its place among the Best cafe Swayambhu options.
Café De Stupa
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Specialties: Cappuccino, momo, pasta, and breakfast platters.
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Price Range: NPR 300 – 800.
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Google Reviews: Loved for its mix of Nepali and continental dishes, with consistent quality.
Why These Are the Best Café Picks in Swayambhu
The Best cafe Swayambhu list above offers variety—whether you’re looking for local momo, a peaceful tea spot, a rooftop café, or modern coffee culture. What they all share is affordability, authenticity, and proximity to the iconic Swayambhunath Stupa.
For travelers, it’s not just about food it’s about the experience. Sitting in one of these cafés after exploring the Monkey Temple allows you to soak in the culture, views, and rhythm of Kathmandu.
Exploring Swayambhunath is an unforgettable experience, and pairing it with a good meal or a perfect coffee makes it even better. Whether you want momo at Momo and Pizza House, a scenic breakfast at Nirvana Café, or a peaceful tea at White Lotus Café, you’ll find the Best cafe Swayambhu for your taste and budget.
Have you been to any of these cafés, or do you have your own favorite hidden spot near the stupa? Share your experience in the comments below I’d love to hear your recommendations!
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