Kathmandu, Nepal - Nepal's capital city, Kathmandu, has been ranked as the second best solo travel destination globally by Tripadvisor, the world's largest travel guide platform. This year, Tripadvisor introduced a new category for "solo travel destinations" in its annual "Best of the Best" awards, which also includes categories for food, trending destinations, natural wonders, honeymoon spots, and more.

Seoul, South Korea, claimed the top spot on the solo travel list, followed by Kathmandu. Other top 10 destinations include Cusco (Peru), Bangkok (Thailand), Osaka (Japan), Dubai (UAE), Kyoto (Japan), Chiang Mai (Thailand), Reykjavik (Iceland), and Melbourne (Australia).

Tripadvisor determines these rankings by analyzing millions of traveler reviews and opinions to provide the most reliable recommendations for future explorers.

With seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur Durbar Squares, Changunarayan Temple, Syambhunath Stupa, Bouddhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple – and a rich tapestry of cultures, Kathmandu has long been a popular destination for international tourists. In 2024, Nepal welcomed over 1.14 million tourists, a 13.1% increase from the previous year, with the majority visiting Kathmandu.

This latest Tripadvisor ranking is expected to further attract solo travelers to the vibrant city. According to recent statistics, approximately 9% of the global population – over 720 million people – travel solo, seeking destinations that cater to their unique needs.

Meanwhile, London has overtaken Dubai to claim the top spot on Tripadvisor's overall "Best of the Best" destinations list. Kathmandu holds the 21st position on this prestigious list, further solidifying its reputation as a top travel destination for diverse travelers.

[ⓒ Global Economic Times. 무단전재-재배포 금지]