What to see in Kathmandu Valley

Kathmandu is a city that offers a unique blend of ancient and modern, with bustling streets, crowded markets and towering skyscrapers that sit side-by-side with beautiful historic temples and monasteries. The city is a sensory delight, with colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind, the aroma of incense wafting through the air and the sound of chanting coming from ancient shrines.

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Kathmandu is the Durbar Square, a collection of ancient temples and palaces that were once the seat of power for Nepal's monarchs. The square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a testament to the exquisite craftsmanship of the Newar artisans who built it. Another must-see attraction is Swayambhunath, a magnificent Buddhist stupa that sits atop a hill overlooking the city. Also known as the Monkey Temple, it is one of the most sacred sites in Nepal and is visited by both Buddhist and Hindu pilgrims.

For those interested in history and culture, a visit to the Patan Museum is a must. Housed in a beautiful 17th-century palace, the museum contains an impressive collection of traditional Nepalese art and artifacts, including sculptures, paintings, and metalwork. Another fascinating museum is the National Museum, which chronicles the history of Nepal from ancient times to the present day.

Kathmandu is also a food lover's paradise, with a wide range of delicious Nepalese and international cuisine on offer. From street food stalls selling momos (dumplings) and chaat (spicy snacks), to upscale restaurants serving fusion cuisine, there is something to suit every taste and budget.

In conclusion, Kathmandu is a city that is full of surprises, with a rich cultural heritage, beautiful architecture, and a vibrant atmosphere. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, art, and culture, as well as those who want to experience the hustle and bustle of a lively city

The Kathmandu Valley is a remarkable place to explore, with its beautiful cities and ancient sites. The valley is home to the Newar craftsmen, whose artistic genius is evident in the ornate palaces, pagodas, and stupas found throughout the area. The Malla kings championed the skills of these craftsmen, and their work was even appreciated by the Mongol rulers of 18th-century China. Here are some of the top places to see in and around Kathmandu Valley:

 Kathmandu Durbar Square: This cluster of ancient temples, palaces, courtyards, and streets dates back to the 12th and 18th centuries and is listed as one of the eight Cultural World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. Visitors can explore the Temple of Living Goddesses, the Hanuman Dhoka Royal Palace, and the magnificent Taleju Temple, which towers 40 meters. The giant pagoda of Kasthamandap was the main focal point of the city's social, religious, and political life during the reign of the Malla kings, but it was destroyed in a recent earthquake.

 Thamel: This is one of the main tourist hubs in Kathmandu, located just a 10-minute walk from the center. Thamel is bustling with activities late into the night and offers visitors plenty of options for accommodations, restaurants, bars, bookshops, souvenir shops, and cyber cafes.

 Swayambhunath: Located approximately 4 km west of Kathmandu, this Buddhist stupa is said to be 2500 years old. The stupa, which forms the main structure, is composed of a solid hemisphere of brick and earth supporting a lofty conical spire capped by a pinnacle of copper gilt. The hill is a mosaic of small chaityas and pagoda temples and is one of the holiest Buddhist chaityas in Nepal.

Pashupatinath: This temple is situated 5 kilometers east of Kathmandu and is one of the holiest/sacred Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple, built in pagoda style, has a gilded roof and richly carved silver doors and is situated amidst a lush green natural setting on the bank of the sacred Bagmati river. Visitors are permitted to view the temple from the east bank of the river, and entrance to the temple is strictly forbidden to all non-Hindus. Pashupatinath is the center of annual pilgrimage on the day of Shivaratri, which falls in the month of February/March.

Boudhanath: This stupa, located eight kilometers east of Kathmandu City, is one of the biggest in the world of its kind and one of the most imposing landmarks in Kathmandu. The stupa has four pairs of eyes in the four cardinal directions, keeping watch for righteous behavior and human prosperity. The shrine is ringed by houses of Lamas or Buddhist priests and is the center of Tibetan Buddhism.

Kopan Monastery: This monastery lies on a hilltop north of Boudhanath and is a popular center for courses on Buddhism and other Tibetan-related subjects. It is home to 360 monks, lamas, teachers, and workers, who come from all areas of Nepal and Tibet, with ages ranging from seven to sixty years old. Visitors from all over the world come here to attend courses and enjoy the spiritual atmosphere of the place for study and practice.

Budhanilkantha: This site is located about eight kilometers north of Kathmandu and is home to the largest stone statue of Vishnu. The statue is situated at the foot of Shivapuri range and dates back to the 5th century AD. Visitors can see the

Kirtipur: Explore the hidden gem of Nepal, Kirtipur, a small town located 8 km southwest of Kathmandu. The ancient Newar township boasts brick-paved streets, typical red brick houses with tiled roofs, and temple squares that make it a natural fortress. The Bagh Bhairav temple, Uma Maheshwor Temple, and Chilanchu Vihara (stupa) are the main attractions. Don't miss the opportunity to visit Tribhuvan University, Nepal’s premier seat of education located on the foothills of Kirtipur.

Chovar: Enjoy the breathtaking view of Kathmandu valley from the picturesque village of Chovar, located 8 km southwest of Kathmandu. Legend has it that Bodhisattva Manjushree cut the mountain with his sword to drain out the water, and you can see the temple of Adinath on the hilltop with a view of snow-capped mountains. At the bottom of the hill, lies the oldest Ganesha shrine of all, Jal-Binayak. It's a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

Pharping: Discover the small Newari town of Pharping, located 18 km south of Kathmandu, perched on a hilltop with a Buddhist monastery. This pilgrimage site is now taken over by a large number of Tibetans. The elaborate 17th-century temple of Goddess Bajra Jogini and the cave with a hand-imprint of the Buddhist saint Padmasambhav on the rock face are the main attractions. You can also visit the newly built monasteries that accept foreign students.

Dakshinkali: Experience the religious fervor of Nepal by visiting Dakshinkali, located 25 km south of Kathmandu on the valley rim. It's dedicated to the Goddess of Valor and Victory over evil, Kali. The shrine is located in a dark valley at the confluence of two streams and is especially crowded on Tuesdays and Saturdays when animal sacrifices are offered to the deity. Witness the ritual decapitation of animals with a khukuri knife by the priest and the bathing of the black stone image of Kali in blood.

Patan: Indulge in the city of fine arts, Patan, located just 5 km from Kathmandu. It's enclosed within 4 stupas built in the 3rd century AD by Emperor Ashoka. The city retains much of its old charm with narrow streets, brick houses, and a multitude of well-preserved Hindu temples, Buddhist monasteries (vihars), and monuments. The Krishna Temple, Hiranya Varna Mahavihar, and the Golden Temple are the main attractions. Visit the Tibetan Refugee Camp and the Handicraft Center to witness the hand weaving of Tibetan carpets and molding of metal statues.

Bhaktapur: also known as Bhadgaon, is a popular tourist destination situated on an altitude of 1,401 meters. Located just 14 kilometers east of Kathmandu on                 the Arniko Highway, which leads to the Chinese border, the city has managed to retain its medieval charm despite the rapid urbanization of its surroundings. One             of the main attractions of Bhaktapur is Nyatapola, a five-story temple dedicated to the tantric goddess. Another popular temple in the city is Bhairabh Temple,                   dedicated to Bhairav, the god of terror. Visitors can also explore the Pottery Square, where they can observe the skilled potters at work, and the 15th-century                   Palace of 55 carved windows, a stunning example of traditional Newari architecture. The Golden Gate is another notable attraction, adorned with intricate                         carvings and gilded in gold. The city's brick-paved roads and charming red brick houses add to the overall medieval feel of the city, making it a unique                              destination for tourists interested in exploring Nepal's rich cultural heritage

Thimi: Thimi is a beautiful town located about 9 km to the east of Kathmandu, Nepal, on the way to Bhaktapur. This town is predominantly inhabited by Newars, who are known for their artistic and cultural heritage. The town is famous for its pottery, and most of the people here are engaged in this craft. Visitors can witness the making of clay pots, flower vases, and other pottery items, and they can buy these items if they wish. One of the main attractions in Thimi is the Balkumari temple, which is dedicated to the Mother Goddess. This temple is an important religious site for the locals, and visitors can observe the unique architecture and rituals that take place here. Another important religious site in Thimi is the Karunamaya temple, which is dedicated to the Buddha of Compassion. This temple is known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful surroundings.Thimi is a perfect place to experience the rich cultural heritage of Nepal and witness the beautiful art and craft of the Newar community. Visitors can explore the town on foot, interact with the friendly locals, and taste the delicious local food.

Changunarayan: The Temple of Changunarayan is a magnificent example of the oldest Pagoda architecture in Nepal, dating back to the Lichhavi period in the early 3rd century. It is located on a ridge overlooking Bhaktapur, about 15 kilometers east of Kathmandu. The temple is renowned for its exquisite wood and stone carvings, which are considered to be some of the finest in Nepal. Changu is an ancient historical site situated on a conical-shaped hillock, and the temple is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world. If you are interested in exploring Nepal's rich cultural and historical heritage, a visit to the Temple of Changunarayan is highly recommended.

Godavari: Godavari is a village located on the lap of Phulchowki hill, which is 10 km south of Kathmandu and 5 km from Patan. One of the main attractions of the village is its prized butterfly population, including rare collector's items. The village is also well-known for the green fingers of its inhabitants, who have created beautiful gardens and green spaces throughout the area.

In addition to its butterfly population and gardens, Godavari is home to Nepal's National Botanical Garden. This garden has a wide-ranging collection of high-altitude orchids and cacti, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in botany or horticulture. The village is also a great spot for birdwatching, with many different species of birds found in the area. Overall, Godavari is a beautiful and unique destination that offers a variety of attractions for visitors. Whether you're interested in butterflies, gardens, botany, or birdwatching, this village is sure to provide a memorable experience.

Phulchowki: Phulchowki is a prominent peak located at an altitude of 2829 meters above sea level, which encircles the Kathmandu valley in Nepal. The peak is situated above the Godavari Village and is known for its sub-tropical forest, which is rich in wildlife and plants. The forest is home to over 570 species of flowering plants, including wild roses, yellow jasmine, iris, and other native flowers.Phulchowki is also renowned for its birdlife, making it a popular destination for bird watchers. The peak offers an excellent opportunity for hikers, and a youthful hiker can scale the peak in a little over three hours. A jeepable road leads to the top of the hill, where there is a Buddhist shrine. Phulchowki is one of the last surviving cloud forests in central Nepal. Cloud forests are characterized by their persistent low-level cloud cover, which creates a unique ecosystem that supports a range of plant and animal life. The cloud forest at Phulchowki is home to a variety of rare and endangered species, making it an important conservation area. Overall, Phulchowki is a beautiful and unique destination that offers a glimpse into the natural beauty of Nepal. Visitors to the area can enjoy hiking, bird watching, and exploring the sub-tropical forest while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding valley.

Harisiddhi Village - A Unique Cultural and Religious Destination South of Kathmandu Located just 10 kilometers south of Kathmandu, Harisiddhi is a small village that boasts of rich cultural and religious heritage. What makes this village unique is that none of the villagers wear leather shoes inside the village, making it a place where visitors are requested to wear cloth shoes while exploring the area. The main attraction of Harisiddhi is the Goddess Harisiddhi Trishakti Bhavani and the Four Storey temple, which are popular pilgrimage sites for both locals and tourists. The village is also known for its annual Harisiddhi Festival, also known as Jalan Pyakha in the local language, which is celebrated every year on the occasion of Holi Purnima. Visitors to Harisiddhi can also combine their visit with a trip to Godavari, another popular destination in the area. Godavari is known for its scenic beauty and is home to the Godavari Botanical Garden, which houses a variety of rare plants and flowers. Overall, Harisiddhi village is a unique and interesting destination that offers visitors a glimpse into the cultural and religious heritage of Nepal. Whether you're a spiritual seeker or just someone looking for a new experience, a visit to Harisiddhi is definitely worth considering.

Sankhu:  Welcome to Sankhu, a charming village located 20 km northeast of Kathmandu, Nepal. Known as one of the oldest Newar villages in the area, Sankhu is surrounded by pristine natural beauty and offers a rich cultural and historical heritage. One of the most important attractions in Sankhu is the Goddess Vajrayogini, a revered deity among the Newar people. The village is home to several temples dedicated to the goddess, each with its own unique architecture and style. Visitors can learn about the goddess and the local traditions associated with her worship. Sankhu is also famous for its historical significance. During the 7th to 19th century AD, the village was the last stop for traders on their way to Lhasa. The village served as an important trading post for centuries, and remnants of its past can still be seen in the traditional architecture and narrow streets. One of the most fascinating aspects of Sankhu is the presence of the Eighty Siddhas. According to local legend, several siddhas of India stayed in the village, with four or five caves serving as their residence. One of the caves is believed to have been the practice cave of Nagarjuna, a revered Buddhist master. An image of Nagarjuna originally placed in the cave is now displayed some distance away, allowing visitors to pay homage to this great master. In conclusion, Sankhu is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring Nepal's rich cultural and historical heritage. With its stunning natural surroundings, ancient temples, and fascinating legends, Sankhu is sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors.

Nagarkot: Nagarkot is a popular hill station located about 32 km east of Kathmandu. It offers stunning views of the Himalayas, including the Annapurna Range, Manaslu Range, Ganesh Himal Range, Langtang Range, Jugal Himal Range, Rolwaling Range, Mahalangur Range (Everest Range), and Numbur Range, as well as views of Kathmandu Valley and Shivapuri National Park. The altitude of Nagarkot is 2229 m above sea level, and from the top, one can enjoy panoramic views in all directions. Visitors can also go on short hikes or day treks from Nagarkot.

Shivapuri: Shivapuri village is located around 12 km north of Kathmandu and is the second-highest point on the valley rim, with an elevation range of 1050 to 2800 m above sea level. The village lies within the forested Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, which was designed to protect the valley's water supply. The park is home to a variety of vegetation, including rhododendrons, magnolias, pine, oaks, and many wild bushy colorful flowers. Visitors can enjoy mountain views of the Annapurna range, Mt. Manaslu, Rolwaling range, and Everest range from certain view-points along the trail. The park is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including Himalayan black bear, leopard, jungle cats, and Rhesus monkey, as well as 177 species of birds, 102 species of butterflies, and 129 different species of mushrooms. The valley rim trek also offers famous bird watching spots inside Shivapuri Water shade and Shivapuri Wildlife Reserve.

Nagarjun: Nagarjun, located about 10 km northwest of Kathmandu, is the nearest hill site of the valley covered by a thick forest with a historical and natural setting in Shivapur National park. The main attractions of Nagarjung are Buddhist shrines, ancient caves, and Jamocha view-point (2130 m), which offers a panoramic view of the Himalayan range as well as Kathmandu Valley and Swayambhunath stupa with two famous eyes of Buddha.

Kakani: Kakani is located only 28 km northwest of Kathmandu and offers a stunning mountain landscape with a vast collection of majestic peaks stretching from Ganesh Himal to Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Visitors can also spot different wild animals and birds in the forest of Kakani. In late winter, Rhododendrons grow wild and bloom, making the village more charming. As one of the most accessible settlements from Kathmandu over 2000 meters, this hill station hosts a British Gurkhas welfare bungalow and a couple of simple hotels offering basic accommodation to travelers. A notable local industry is strawberry farming.

Dhulikhel: Dhulikhel is a scenic and ancient town situated 30 km east of Kathmandu on the Arniko Highway (Kathmandu-Kodari highway) and is famous for its natural as well as historical reasons. The town is located on a hilltop surrounded by lush greenery and offers a panoramic view of the Himalayan range (subject to weather permit). The main attractions of Dhulikhel are the view of the row of snow-capped peaks, Devithan hillock renowned for viewing sunrise and sunset, historic Newar settlement, and artistic temples of the town.

Panauti: Panauti is a fascinating ancient village located 32 km southeast of Kathmandu, Nepal. It is situated on the banks of the Puyamati river and is renowned for its religious and historical significance. The town is full of ancient temples, indigenous traditions, and cultural heritage, making it a unique destination for visitors. Panauti has been proposed as a UNESCO world heritage site due to its rich cultural heritage. Visitors can take a leisurely walk through the tiny village and discover its antiquity. The village is famous for its 14th-century AD Hindu temple of Shiva, locally known as Indreswor Mahadev. The temple is a must-visit for tourists and a significant religious site for locals. The houses in Panauti are constructed in medieval designs, adding to the town's charm. There are also many holy pilgrimage sites, artistic temples, and important religious sites that add to the attraction of this town. Visitors to Panauti can enjoy exploring the town's rich history and culture, making it an unforgettable experience.

Namobuddha:  Namobuddha is a highly significant religious site for Buddhists and is located at an elevation of 1750m, around 45 km away from Kathmandu. The stupa and shrines situated on this picturesque green hill mark an ancient and sacred site. It is considered to be one of the most important religious sites for Buddhists after Swayambhunath and Boudhanath in Kathmandu.

The history of Namobuddha is fascinating and revolves around the story of a prince who sacrificed himself for the sake of a sick and hungry tigress and her cubs. This act of selflessness is considered to be a powerful example of compassion and kindness, which are key tenets of Buddhist teachings. Visitors can still find an old historical stone slab depicting the story of this place. Namobuddha offers a serene and tranquil atmosphere for visitors to connect with their spirituality and explore the rich history of the site. The surrounding natural beauty and stunning views of the Himalayan mountains provide an ideal setting for meditation and contemplation. Visiting this sacred site is a must for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of Buddhist philosophy and history.

Banepa: Banepa is a small commercially active Newar village city located approximately 26 km east of Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. It played a significant role in the region's history and was the capital of the entire area in the middle of the 15th century. Despite its rich past, the city often goes unnoticed by tourists. Banepa is also recognized as an important trade-route town to Tibet. Visitors to the village can enjoy a tour that offers a combination of history, rural life, and scenic beauty. The main attractions in Banepa are the Chandeshowri temple, located approximately 1 km northeast of the town along the river Rudramati, and the Dhaneshwar temple, located 1 km south of the town. The town is also well-known for its eight different temples of Lord Ganesha, Narayanthan, the Temple of Lord Narayan, Bhimshnthan, the temple of Bhimsen, and eight different ponds. A visit to Banepa will give you an opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the Newar people, who have lived in the area for centuries. You can also experience the rural lifestyle of the people in the region, including their unique architecture, cuisine, and customs.

Overall, Banepa is a hidden gem that is definitely worth a visit if you are interested in exploring the lesser-known areas of Nepal.

Nala: is a small isolated village 27 km east of Kathmandu situated on the southern slope of mountain overlooking the beautiful green valley. It is a historical and religious place for both Hindus and Buddhists. The whole village has gained a mystical atmosphere due to its set up and a typical temple of Bhagawati a classic example of pagoda architecture. There is also a 9th Century AD temple dedicated to Lord Lokeshwor - a Buddhist God.

Palanchowk Bhagawati: It is located on a hill top and 56 km approx. from Kathmandu along the Arniko highway. The temple is considered as a center of faith among the followers of Hinduism. Here you will visit the Bhagawati temple, which houses one of the most beautiful and most important Bhagawati images in Nepal. The stunning image is carved of black stone and decked with jewelries. Many pilgrims visit the site, especially on Tuesdays and Saturdays, when sacrifices are made. The place also offers great views of Himalayan range, sunrise as well as sunset (subject to weather permit).