Katmandu Tourism Guide

Nepal, the small hilly nation of Indian subcontinent has recently stepped into the world of democracy, breaking the shackles of monarchy. It is nestled in the lap of eastern Himalayan mountain ranges. Kathmandu is the capital of this sole Hindu nation of the world. It is believed that in the year 723 A.D, King Gun Kamdev has established this beautiful hill town.

Located at a height of 1,336 m, the Kathmandu valley covers an area of 218-sq-miles. The three most artistically and culturally sound towns of Nepal are Kathmandu, Lalitpur (Patan) and Bhaktapur that forms the part of Kathmandu valley. These are the most developed towns in entire Nepal. The capital city is the centre of attraction of Nepalese culture, tradition, arts and cuisines. Kathmandu, one of the fabulous tourist spot in Nepal, maintains a perfect equation between its legendary history and present time.

Unlike the other capitals, Katmandu has still maintain its serenity and its sanctity. It is a nice place to enjoy a relaxing vacation, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Kathmandu has an endless array of attractive tourist spots which can surely mesmerize you by their beauty. One of the outstanding fact about Kathmandu is that it has record number of World Heritage Sites, which is unmatched in the entire world. There are seven awesome sites declared as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO available in a compact area. These seven architectural and civic wonders are the finest example of Nepal's past prosperity, artistry, and religiosity. Thanks to these sites, Nepal is considered as a living museum.

Seven World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu are:-

Pashupatinath Temple:-The most significant tourist spot of Kathmandu is the Pashupatinath Temple. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Hindus consider it as a one of the most pious site. Pashupatinath temple is one of the most exquisitely curved temple in the entire Nepal. It has a richly ornamented pagoda with two tired golden roof and silver doors. The fragrance of incense sticks and the and religious hymns creates a holy ambiance in the temple.

Changu Narayan Temple:- It is the oldest temple in Kathmandu valley built in 4th century. The temple is decorated by some of the best specimen of stones, wood, and metal craft in the valley. It is considered as the best epitome of culture, religion, history and faith of the region.

Durbar Squares of Hanuman Dhoka: Durbar Square, the royal seat of erstwhile kings of Nepal and a World Heritage Site in Kathmandu. This is one of the most sought after tourist spot in Nepal. It was the former royal palace of Malla and Shah kings. The area has many small but beautiful monuments of historical importance.

Patan:-It is an ancient and second largest city in Nepal and also a World Heritage site. The central Durbar square in Patan has some beautiful temples built on the basis of Newari architectural style. It has collection of some awesome Buddhist monasteries.

Bhaktapur:- Locally known by 'Khwopa', Bhaktapur is a UNESCO World Heritge site. This is also known as the 'city of culture' or 'Nepal's cultural gem' or 'Living heritage' due to its unique palaces, temples and monasteries. This ancient city was established by King Ananda Malla in 12th century.

Buddhist stupas of Swayambhu:- It is situated 3-kms west of Kathmandu City and is perched on a hillock about 77m, above the level of the Kathmandu valley. This is one of the world’s most charismatic Buddhist Chaityas. It is believed to be 2,000-years-old. Painted on the four-sides of the spire bases are the all seeing eyes of Lord Buddha.

Bauddhanath:-This monastery is the most popular and the biggest in entire Nepal. Every year thousands of devotees throng here to pay their homage.

Other tourist attractions of Kathmandu are:-

Narayanhity Palace:- It is the royal residence of the previous monarchs of Nepal. Tourists are not allowed inside the palace.

Guheswari temple: This temple is built near the famous Pashupatinath temple in Kathmandu. This is a historic and holy temple dedicated to goddess Guheswari. One peculiar fact about this temple is that only Hindus are allowed to enter in this temple.

Akash Bhairav Temple: The Akash Bhairav temple is situated in Indra Chowk, the main market avenue of Kathmandu. It has an image of Lord Akash Bhairav which is displayed only on the occasion of Indra Jatra, the festival dedicated to Lord Indra popualarly known as 'the rain God'.
Machhendranath: The pagoda has a distinct architecture and is very popular among the followers of Hinyana sect of Buddhism.

Temple of Kumari(Kumar Ghar): The temple or the residence of Living Goddess, "Kumari", is built near Hanuman Dhoka Palace. This temple has lavishly carved wooden balconies and window screens. The Kumari - the Living Goddess, acknowledges the greetings of her devotees from the balcony window of the temple. Photography is strictly prohibited in this temple.

Kasthamandap: This temple is believed to be built by King Laxmi Narsingha Malla in the beginning of the 16th century. Built near the Temple of Kumari, Kasthamandap temple is constructed from the wood of a single tree. Kathmandu city has derives its name from this temple only.

Apart from these temples, other interesting tourist spots in and around Kathmandu are Tundikhel, Kirtipur, Bhadrakali temple, Budhanikantha, Dhakshinkali temple, Chobar, Shekha Narayan, Chabahil and Chandra Vinayak.

Museums in Kathmandu are:-

National Museum:The National Museum is two and half kilometers west of Kathmandu, has fantastic collection of weapons, artifacts from ancient, medieval and modern Nepal. Its archaeological and historical displays are worth watching. Except for Tuesday and government holidays, the museum is open for everyday.

Natural History Museum: Located 3-kms west of Kathmandu city behind the famous Swayambhunath hillock, the Natural History Museum has a unique collection of butterflies, fish, reptiles, birds, mammals, plants and a variety of fossils collected within the country. No cameras are allowed inside the museum.

Wildlife parks in Kathmandu are:-
Gokarna: Gokarna Safari Park which is also known as Toyal Game Sanctuary lies about 10-kms north-east of Kathmandu. This park provides shelter to the Spotted Deer which can be viewed in the sanctuary from an Elephant back. Pagoda of Gokarneshwor Mahadev is situated on the northern side of Gokarna.

Eateries and shopping hubs in Kathmandu:-
If you get tired after such hectic sightseeing trip than you can taste some local Nepali delicacies in the eateries of Kathmandu. Apart from that Kathmandu offers ample options for shopping. The place is famous for handicrafts items that can be bought for mementos and gifts. The embroidered clothes are the other must buy items. Kathmandu is also famous for its night life.

Adventure sports in Kathmandu:-
Beside these architectural masterpieces, Kathmandu is also famous as a destination for the adventure enthusiasts. It has an endless array of adventure sports such as Skiing, Heliskiing, Mountaineering, Rock climbing, Trekking, River rafting, Motorbike safari, Jungle Safari, Camping, Angling and Fishing.

Ideal time to visit Kathmandu:-
Kathmandu has a pleasant climate through out the year. But the most favorable time to visit Kathmandu is from October to November , when the dry season begins.

How to reach Kathmandu:-
Tribhuvan International airport in Kathmandu is the sole international airport of Nepal, which joins rest of the world with this Hindu nation. Even you can reach Kathmandu by road. With the help of several modes of land transport from the bordering Indian states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal you can reach Kathmandu.

Katmandu Tourism Guide
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