Kathmandu

Kathmandu, as we know today, forms part of the Kathmandu Valley, which once accompanied other adjoining areas and was known as the Nepal Mandala. Today, with 2.5 million residents and tens of thousands of visitors who travel to this city each year, it is the most densely populated but also the most commercially developed city in Nepal.

It is believed that the present Kathmandu Valley was once simply a lake with host plants and animals flourishing in and around it. Manjushree, a Buddhist saint from Tibet, noticed a lotus floating in the middle of the lake and began to worship it as it deeply evoked his devotion. He went on to cut the Chobar Hill, which turned into a gorge deep enough for the lake water to drain out, leaving behind a fertile land fit enough for human settlement. Ever since, the valley has been a visiting ground for devotees, merchants, emperors and explorers, and is now also a major tourism hub. Here’s a brief travel guide on how you can make most out of your next trip to Kathmandu.

The temperature in Kathmandu is usually warm throughout the day and cool and pleasant at night and in the morning. The average summer temperature ranges from 28 to 30 °C and Kathmandu weather is winter is about 10.1°C (50.2 °F).

ADVENTURE- Kathmandu has various places where one can indulge in adventurous activities. Trekking, Rock climbing, Mountain Biking, Hiking, Camping and water sports activities are among the top adventures which the city of Kathmandu is filled with. Kathmandu comprises varied adventure life and is a must visit place for the adventure lovers. People who love excitement and thrill can also try out paragliding, zip-line tour and river rafting here.

Kathmandu sightseeing tour includes various places such as:

1. Temple Visits
Kathmandu has a rich and diverse Hindu culture and one can witness this by visiting the famous temples of Kathmandu. Kathmandu attractions include Boudhanath Stupa which is amongst the largest stupas in the world. The popular Pashupatinath Temple and Dakshinkali are other beautiful temples. These Hindu temples reflect the stunning architecture and Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva and other deities are worshipped here. Exploring these temples give an amazing and unique social and cultural experience to the visitors.

2. Monastery Visits
Kathmandu is filled with beautiful Buddhist monasteries and temples as it has a blend of Hindu and Buddhist culture. The Swayambhunath Monastery is a legendary Buddhist Shrine. The stupa at the Boudhanath Monastery has been listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The Namo Buddha Monastery, Kopan Monastery, and Lumbini, where Lord Buddha was born, are other must-visit monasteries.

3. Swayambhunath Stupa
This stupa is situated on a hilltop in the Kathmandu Valley. The place has magnificent architecture and is covered with numerous trees. The place consists of the main stupa, temples, shrines, museum, monastery and a library. This temple is a major Kathmandu attraction as it has been painted in a form resembling the eyes and eyebrows of Lord Buddha along with the number 1 painted as the nose in local script. This is an absolutely pleasant sight to the eyes.

4. Durbar Square
Exploring Kathmandu is incomplete without visiting this place. It has also been listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and stands to face the former Kathmandu Palace Kingdom. Durbar Square is famous for the works portrayed here by the craftsmen and artisans. The palace is beautifully decorated, showcasing Nepalese culture wonderfully. The place comprises museum and is also home to Kumari Chowk. The place has a cage containing Kumari, a girl who had been selected as the human reincarnation of Goddess Durga. Thus, this is a must visit place in Kathmandu.

5. Hanuman Dhoka
This place is a part of the Durbar Square. Hanuman Dhoka comprises of numerous buildings which include the Shah Dynasty and the royal Malla king palaces. The place is spread over an area of 5 acres and has a tall statue of Lord Hanuman at the entrance. The place derives its name from this Hindu God itself. ‘Dhoka’ in the Nepali language means “gate” or “door”. The door serves as the entrance to the Mul Chok, Nasal Chok and Mohan Chok. Tribhuvan Museum, portraying King Tribhuvan’s royal belongings are displayed and exhibited here.