Natural History Museum of Nepal
Discover Nepal's rich biodiversity through preserved flora and fauna, from insects to birds, in this compact museum near Swayambhunath.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, less smell
Natural History Museum of Nepal
Best Time
Fewer crowds, less smell
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Nepal's rich biodiversity through preserved flora and fauna, from insects to birds, in this compact museum near Swayambhunath.
"A small but impressive collection that sparks curiosity about Nepal's natural world."
📸 Camera Ticket Needed
If you plan to take photos, remember to purchase a separate still camera ticket.
👃 Be Prepared for Mothballs
The museum uses naphthalene for preservation, which can have a strong smell.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vast Flora & Fauna Collection
Explore preserved specimens of Nepal's diverse plant and animal life, from insects to fungi and birds.
Insect and Butterfly Displays
Marvel at the intricate details of preserved insects and vibrant butterflies, showcasing Nepal's entomological richness.
Botanical Wonders
Discover a curated selection of preserved plants and fungi, offering a glimpse into Nepal's rich botanical heritage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Peaceful Visit
Location & What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Camera Ticket Needed
If you plan to take photos, remember to purchase a separate still camera ticket.
👃 Be Prepared for Mothballs
The museum uses naphthalene for preservation, which can have a strong smell.
⏱️ Quick Visit Recommended
The museum is relatively small; allow about 30 minutes to an hour for your visit.
📍 Convenient Location
Easily accessible on the way to or from Swayambhunath Stupa.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Camera Ticket Needed
If you plan to take photos, remember to purchase a separate still camera ticket.
👃 Be Prepared for Mothballs
The museum uses naphthalene for preservation, which can have a strong smell.
⏱️ Quick Visit Recommended
The museum is relatively small; allow about 30 minutes to an hour for your visit.
📍 Convenient Location
Easily accessible on the way to or from Swayambhunath Stupa.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Natural History Museum of Nepal to be a charming and informative stop, particularly for its well-preserved collection of flora and fauna. While some note the museum's modest size and the distinct smell from preservation methods, most appreciate its reasonable entrance fee and its convenient location near Swayambhunath Stupa. It's highly recommended for those with an interest in biology and for families seeking an educational experience. +2
"A medium sized museum with an excellent collection of botany and biology details. Great place for people and kids interested in Biology field. Had a great experience. Tickets can be purchased at the counter. Located near the monkey temple."
Pranav Poojary
"3 stars is as generous as I feel I can be. It's mostly just the one large room and mostly just taxidermy with simple labels. The naphthalene protection method comes with a strong smell. So if you're used to it no worries, but if you're not a moth ball user, it's a bit offputting."
Justin Flores (Gospel Nerd)
"On the way to/from (upward way) Swayambhunath Stupa and inside of Swayambhu Environmental Park. Small but have decent collection of animals, birds, insects, seeds, etc. Need only 30min to finish visiting. If want to take lots of photos, then should buy Still Camera ticket. Staff were nice and friendly. However, really need to expand the area and collection."
Mahbubul Islam
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is conveniently located near the Swayambhunath Stupa, often referred to as the Monkey Temple, on the western hillock of Kathmandu. You can reach it as part of your visit to the stupa.
While specific public transport routes can vary, taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Kathmandu and can take you directly to the Swayambhunath area, from where the museum is a short walk.
Many visitors visit the museum either before ascending to the stupa or on their way down. It's a great way to add a scientific perspective to your cultural exploration of the heritage site.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is very reasonable, often around 100 Nepalese Rupees, making it an affordable addition to your itinerary.
Yes, tickets can typically be purchased directly at the museum counter upon arrival.
Advance booking is generally not required for the Natural History Museum of Nepal, as it's a smaller, less crowded attraction compared to major international museums.
Yes, if you wish to take photographs inside the museum, you will need to purchase a separate still camera ticket.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum houses a decent collection of preserved animals, birds, insects, seeds, and botanical specimens, offering insights into Nepal's biodiversity.
Most visitors find that 30 minutes to an hour is sufficient to explore the museum's collection thoroughly.
Absolutely! It's a great place for children and adults interested in biology to learn about Nepal's natural world in an engaging way.
The museum uses naphthalene to protect its specimens from pests, which can result in a strong mothball-like odor.
The exhibits feature simple labels providing basic information about the preserved specimens.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, you can take photos, but you'll need to purchase a specific 'still camera ticket' to do so.
Beyond needing a ticket, there are no specific restrictions mentioned, but always be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography if it might disturb them or damage delicate exhibits.
The detailed insect and butterfly displays, as well as the diverse taxidermied animals and birds, make for excellent photographic subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Plan your visit for a weekday morning to avoid potential crowds. While the naphthalene smell might be noticeable, it's generally not overwhelming for short visits. Ensure you purchase the camera ticket if you want to capture your kids' excitement as they explore the exhibits. The museum's proximity to Swayambhunath Stupa also makes it easy to combine with a larger cultural excursion.
📚 Students and Biology Enthusiasts
Recommendations: Take your time to read the labels and appreciate the detail in each specimen. If you're a keen photographer, the camera ticket is well worth the small investment for capturing detailed shots of insects, birds, and botanical samples. Consider visiting with a notebook to jot down interesting facts or species you encounter.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Nepal's Biodiversity
This museum is particularly appealing to those with an interest in biology, entomology, or botany. It provides a hands-on (or rather, eyes-on) experience that can evoke memories of school science lessons and spark curiosity about the natural sciences. The collection, while not as extensive as larger international institutions, is well-curated and offers a concentrated look at Nepal's unique ecosystems.
Key takeaway: It's a compact yet informative museum perfect for a focused learning experience, especially when combined with a visit to the nearby Swayambhunath Stupa.
Navigating the Museum Experience
For photography enthusiasts, a dedicated 'still camera ticket' is required to capture images of the exhibits. This ensures that the museum can continue to maintain its collections and facilities. The museum is also relatively small, meaning a visit can be completed in about 30 minutes to an hour, making it an ideal stop for those on a tighter schedule or looking for a brief educational interlude.
Pro-tip: Consider visiting during off-peak hours, such as weekday mornings or afternoons, to enjoy a more peaceful and less crowded experience, allowing for better appreciation of the displays.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit