Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is located in a valley surrounded by the Himalayas. In the heart of the old city is Durbar Square, which becomes lively during the Indra Jatra festival, filled with traditional dances. The Hanuman Dhoka palace and the Kasthamandap temple are being restored in Durbar Square. The Maju Deval pagoda, known for its steep stairs, is also under reconstruction. Other important religious sites like Swayambhunath, the “Monkey Temple,” and Boudhanath, a large Buddhist stupa, are being rebuilt. Pashupatinath, an ancient Hindu temple, survived the earthquake. Just south of the Bagmati River is Patan, known for its metal crafts and the Patan Museum, which displays Hindu, Buddhist, and Tantric art. Popular local foods include momos, dal bhat, and Newari buffalo dishes.
places to visit in Kathmandu
Kathmandu Valley
Kathmandu Valley, once known as Nepal Valley, is a historic area that connects the ancient civilizations of India and Asia. The valley is home to over 130 important monuments, including religious sites for both Hindus and Buddhists. It is a cultural hub, filled with temples, shrines, and palaces that showcase the rich history of Nepal.
Pashupatinath Temple
Pashupatinath Temple is a significant Hindu temple located along the Bagmati River, about 5 km from Kathmandu. It is one of Nepal’s most sacred temples and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is considered a pilgrimage site for Hindus around the world and is known for its stunning architecture and spiritual significance.
Swayambhunath
Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple, is a famous religious site situated on a hill west of Kathmandu. The hill is filled with various types of trees, which give it its Tibetan name “Sublime Trees.” This ancient temple offers breathtaking views of the Kathmandu Valley and is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site.
Boudhanath
Boudhanath Stupa is located about 11 km northeast of Kathmandu and is one of the largest stupas in the world. It is a key site for Tibetan Buddhists, with numerous gompas (monasteries) built around it. The stupa’s massive mandala attracts pilgrims and tourists alike, making it a central spiritual hub in Nepal.
Durbar Square
Kathmandu Durbar Square is a historic site in front of the old royal palace of the Kathmandu Kingdom. It is one of three Durbar Squares in the Kathmandu Valley and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The square is filled with ancient palaces, temples, courtyards, and museums, offering a glimpse into the region’s royal past.
Langtang National Park
Langtang National Park, Nepal’s first Himalayan national park, was established in 1976. It spans a range of ecosystems from tropical forests to alpine scrub. The park is home to a diverse array of plant and animal species, including the endangered red panda and various species of birds.
Hanuman Dhoka
Hanuman Dhoka is a historical complex located in the heart of Kathmandu Durbar Square. It was once the royal palace of the Malla and Shah kings. The complex includes temples, courtyards, and the Hanuman statue, which gives the site its name, symbolizing the presence of the Hindu god Hanuman.
Narayanhity Palace
The Narayanhity Palace Museum is a public museum located in central Kathmandu. It was once the residence of Nepal’s royal family and is famous for its historical and royal significance. The museum showcases royal artifacts, including jewels, and is also the site where the tragic Nepalese Royal Massacre occurred in 2001.
Kopan Monastery
Kopan Monastery is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery located near Boudhanath, just outside Kathmandu. It is part of the Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition and serves as a center for Buddhist learning and meditation. The monastery offers peaceful surroundings and teachings to visitors interested in Tibetan Buddhism.
Dharahara
Dharahara, also known as Bhimsen Tower, is a tall, nine-story tower located in the center of Kathmandu. Built in 1832, it was once a prominent landmark and part of Kathmandu’s architectural heritage. The tower was severely damaged in the 2015 earthquake, but it remains an important historical symbol of Nepal.
Best time to visit Kathmandu
The ideal time to visit Kathmandu is between February and April when the weather is pleasant. The monsoon season occurs from June to September, bringing heavy rainfall. During the months of February to April, you can expect clear skies and comfortable temperatures. This makes it a great time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
