Kathmandu Travel, Nepal

Kathmandu is the capital city of Nepal. Founded way back in 723 AD by Gunakamadeva, Licchavi king, Kathmandu was captured by Gurkhas in 1768 AD and made their capital. Kathmandu travel gives us an opportunity to unfold the saga of one of the ancient Hindu nations in the world.

Kathmandu is located on the junction of Vishnumati and Baghmati rivers. A home to some of the beautiful temples and Buddhist monasteries, Kathmandu attracts visitors from all over the globe. Being the largest city of Nepal, Kathmandu is also the arrival point for most of the visitors to Nepal.

Geography and Climate of Kathmandu

Located at an altitude of 1,370 meters above mean sea level in Southern Himalayas, Kathmandu is one of the famous tourist destinations of Nepal. Kathmandu is spread over an area of 360 sq meters and is surrounded by green hills. Climate in Kathmandu is generally pleasant throughout the year. Winters are cold in the months from December to February. Temperature in Summers range between 19 – 27 degree celsius. Whereas, in winters it fluctuates between 2 – 20 degree celsius.

Travel Attractions in Kathmandu

Pashupatinath Temple

One of the most sacred Hindu temples of Nepal, Pashupatinath is situated 5 km East of Kathmandu. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, there is a sacred 'Linga' inside Pashupatinath temple, which is believed to have been digged out from the site of the temple many years ago. It is now a world heritage site and a must visit place during travel to Kathmandu

This is one of those temples on the earth where only Hindus are permitted to enter the temple premises. Whereas, there are many vantage points across Bagmati river from where one can have a view of the temple. It is one of the biggest Shiva temples in the sub-continent. It is said that the temple was constructed before 400 AD.

Narayanhity Durbar

Narayanhity Durbar is the royal palace of the King of Nepal and a must visit place during travel to Kathmandu. Palace is named after the historic water spout situated in the Southern corner of the Palace. Constructed in 18th century, Narayanhity Palace is no more a residence of royal family and has been taken over by the Government of Nepal and converted into a Museum.

Swayambhu Stupa

Swayambhu Stupa is the most ancient holy places situated in Kathmandu. Now a world heritage site, it is located across the Vishnumati river, two kilometers away from Kathmandu city. There is a wooden hillock crown on the top of Stupa, from where one can have a fascinating view of the Kathmandu city. Its glittering golden crown can be seen from miles away.

National Museum

National Museum in Kathmandu is located on the way to Swayambhunath hill. It was established in 1928 AD and was given the name 'The Stone House of Arms and Ammunitions'. The museum houses some of the unique statues, murals, paintings, weapons and coins in separate galleries. Its weapon gallery, which is the most visited one, showcases weapons like swords, khukhris and guns which were used during the reign of Licchavis and British empire.

Apart from these there are a number of places of interest during Kathmandu travel, which are a must visit like Bhadrakali temple, Kasthamandap, Temple of Kumari, Hanumandhoka or Durbar Square, Akash Bhairav temple and Machchhendranath temple.

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