Explore All Nepal
Kathmandu is a capital of Nepal.
Kathmandu, the largest city of Nepal, is the political as well as cultural capital of the country. Kathmandu is a city where ancient traditions rub shoulders with the latest technological advances. However, it is the grandeur of the past that enchants the visitor whose gaze may linger on an exquisitely carved wooden window frame, an 18th century bronze sculpture or the spiritually uplifting stupas. Like any big city, Kathmandu has seen rapid expansion in the last decade, but despite the hustle and bustle so typical of metropolitan cities, its people remain as refreshingly friendly as ever. Retaining its ancient traditions, Kathmandu is blessed by a Living Goddess and is enriched by endless ceremonial processions and events that take to the streets every now and then with throngs of devotees seeking blessings. These religious festivals are steeped in legend and are quite a spectacle with chariot processions and masked dancers often possessed by the spirits of deities.
Places to visit in Kathmandu and things to do
1. Boudhanath Stupa
Kathmandu’s skyline is dominated by the Boudhanath Stupa, located approximately 11 kilometres away from the city centre. There are thousands of pilgrims here every day from a variety of religious backgrounds. They circumnavigate the large dome known as the ‘kora’ in a ritualistic way. In order to receive good karma, one must circumambulate the stupa without any malice in their heart.
This majestic stupa has the largest mandala in Nepal and the entire continent. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979, Boudhanath Stupa is one of the most visited Buddhist sites in the world. Kassapa Buddha’s ashes are believed to be buried in this stupa.
2. Pashupatinath Temple
Located on the eastern edge of Kathmandu, Pashupatinath Temple stretches across both banks of the Bagmati River. Thousands of devotees seek blessings from Lord Shiva in the magnificent sanctum dedicated to him. Temples and ashrams dot the area surrounding the Pashupatinath temple, which houses a Jyotirlinga believed to be the head of the body of the twelve Jyotirlinga located across India. UNESCO recognised the temple as a World Heritage Site in 1979.
3. Thamel
In Kathmandu city of Nepal, Thamel is one of the most crowded and popular commercial hubs. Over the past four decades, Thamel has never failed to meet the tourist needs with its historical monuments or clubs, cosy restaurants or magnificent temples. Thamel’s street shops have everything you need, from good food and clothes to new music albums and trekking gear. Wi-fi is available throughout the area.
This maze of streets, formerly called Tabitha Bahal, is home to numerous shops lined up one after another. The goods sold here are unique, despite the steep prices.
4. Namo Buddha (Stupa)
The Namo Buddha is among the most well-known Buddhist religious monuments in Kathmandu. Four kilometres away from Boudhanath Stupa, the pilgrimage site is a pleasant place to visit. Enjoy the stunning views of the emerald and turquoise jewel-covered mountains and forest. The lush landscape here will just captivate you.
5. Durbar Square
Visit Durbar Square to discover Kathmandu’s culture and history. Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famed for its artist and craftsman displays and is located in front of the former palace of the Kathmandu Palace Kingdom. A number of reconstructions have been carried out on the palaces and the square itself. This place should be on the list of best places to visit during a Nepal trip for those with finer tastes.
There is also Kumari Chok here, which is one of Nepal’s most curious attractions. It has a cage containing Kumari, a girl chosen to be the human incarnation of Durga.
6. Garden of Dreams
There are many tourists who visit Swapna Baigicha, also called Garden of Dreams, in Kathmandu to enjoy a tranquil and rejuvenating escape from the stresses of daily life. Originally built in the 1920s, the garden was resurrected by an Austrian-financed team. With beautiful and refined details, the stunningly restored garden is a sight to behold.
Among the main attractions of this place are Omar Khayam’s Rubaiyat marble inscriptions, beautiful fountains, and ponds. There are many things to do in the area, such as picnicking or simply marvelling at the interaction between humans and nature.
7. Taudaha Lake
The Taudaha Lake, a famous freshwater lake on the outskirts of Kathmandu, is surrounded by dense forests and hills. There are many fish in the lake, as well as migratory birds in the area, which makes the area a great place for birdwatching. According to a legend, Taudaha is one of the lakes created when a mythical figure cut the mountain behind it and let the water flow freely.