Kathmandu University

Kathmandu University (KU) is a public autonomous university in Nepal. It is the third oldest university in Nepal, located in Dhulikhel of Kavrepalanchok District, about 30 km (19 mi) east of Kathmandu.

Kathmandu University (KU) was established in 1991 by an Act of Parliament as a non-profit, autonomous, public university. It was the first privately managed public institution of higher learning in Nepal. The predecessor of the university was the Kathmandu Valley Campus founded in 1985.

The idea of establishing a private university in Nepal was first mooted in the early 1980s. A group of Nepalese academics and entrepreneurs, led by Dr. Ram Prasad Shrestha, envisioned a university that would provide high-quality education and research in Nepal.

In 1985, the group established Kathmandu Valley Campus (KVC) in Dhulikhel, a town located about 30 km east of Kathmandu. KVC offered courses in the Intermediate of Science (ISc) level.

KVC was an instant success. It attracted students from all over Nepal who were drawn to its high standards of education and its modern facilities.

In 1991, the government of Nepal passed an Act of Parliament to establish Kathmandu University. KVC was merged with the new university.

KU is a leading university in Nepal. It is known for its high standards of education and its commitment to research and innovation. KU graduates are highly sought-after by employers in Nepal and abroad.

Kathmandu University is ranked as the #2 top university in Nepal during 2025. The rank decreased by 1 point from last year.