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Kathmandu vs Varanasi – Digital Nomad Guide

Trying to decide between Kathmandu, Nepal and Varanasi, India? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.

💰 Cost of Living

Kathmandu has a monthly cost of $1,590, which is 28.7% higher than Varanasi's $1,235.

🌐 Internet Infrastructure

For internet speeds, Kathmandu offers 20 Mbps, while Varanasi provides 25 Mbps making Varanasi's connection 25.0% faster .

☀️ Current Weather

The weather in Kathmandu is currently 28°C ⛈️, while Varanasi is experiencing 41°C 🌧️.

🛡️ Safety Comparison

Kathmandu has a safety score of 60.0 , while Varanasi scores 50.0 .

Costs
$1,590
per month
Internet
20
Mbps
Weather
28° ⛈️
High today
Costs
$1,235
per month
Internet
25
Mbps
Weather
41° 🌧️
High today
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Overall

60.0
Overall Score
58.0

Quality of Life Kathmandu wins

60.0
Safety
50.0

Kathmandu is 10% better

52.0
Healthcare
55.0

Cost

87.0
Cost of Living
87.0

Climate Kathmandu wins

35.0
Air Quality
25.0

Kathmandu is 10% better

Infrastructure Varanasi wins

58.0
Internet Speed
65.0

Varanasi is 7% better

Social

45.0
Nightlife
30.0

Kathmandu is 15% better

91.0
Culture
98.0

Varanasi is 7% better

79.0
Food Scene
85.0

Varanasi is 6% better

Total Cost of Living Comparison

Category Kathmandu Varanasi Difference
Monthly Total $1,590 $1,235 +28.7%
Daily Average $53 $41 per day

Housing

Item Kathmandu Varanasi Difference
Apartment (1 bedroom) $250.00 per month $110.00 per month +127.3%

Daily Life

Item Kathmandu Varanasi Difference
Coffee $1.50 per cup $0.80 per cup +87.5%

Transportation

Item Kathmandu Varanasi Difference

Utilities

Item Kathmandu Varanasi Difference
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Final Verdict: Kathmandu vs Varanasi

Kathmandu ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 2.0% higher than Varanasi overall.

💰 Cost Analysis

  • Monthly Budget: $1,590 vs $1,235
  • Daily Expenses: $53 vs $41
  • Varanasi is 28.7% cheaper for digital nomads

🌐 Infrastructure

  • Internet Speed: Varanasi leads with 20% faster connection
  • Public Transport: Varanasi has better public transportation

🎯 Key Advantages

Kathmandu Wins In:
  • Safety (10% better)
  • Air Quality (10% better)
  • Nightlife (15% better)
Varanasi Wins In:
  • Internet Speed (7% better)
  • Culture (7% better)
  • Food Scene (6% better)

💡 Final Recommendation

Choose Kathmandu if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Internet Speed. However, Varanasi might be preferable if Safety is your top priority. Both cities offer unique advantages for digital nomads, with distinct trade-offs in cost of living, infrastructure, and lifestyle options.

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