Sightseeing & tour
Kathmandu Valley :
The Kathmandu Valley, the political, commercial and cultural hub of Nepal, is the first stop for the majority of visitors to the country. Originally known as the Nepal Valley and a separate kingdom in itself, it contains three fabled cities, each an artistic exposition of graceful temples, elegant palaces, brick- paved courtyards and quaint streets.
Bouddhanath Stupa : (World Heritage Siste)
Lies about six km to the east of downtown Kathmandu and is the largttyest stupa in the Valley. It looms 36 meters high and presents one of the most fascinating specimens of stupa design. Bouddhanath is also known as Khasti, or dew drops, after an account that builders had to use dew to mix the mortar as Kathmandu was suffering from a severe drought during its construction.
Swoyambhu Stupa : (World Heritage Site)
Watches over the Valley from the top of a hillock on its western side. The huge stupa is one of the holiest Buddhists sites in Nepal and its establishment is linked to the creation of the Kathmandu Valley out of a primordial lake. Swayambhu is also known as Samhengu. The National Museum and the Museum of Natural History are situated at the foot of the hill.
Budhanikantha :
Is situated below Shivapuri hill at the northern end of the Valley. It is about nine KM from the city center. The hub of the temple complex is a pond in which lies a great stone figure of the Hindu god Bishnu reclining on the coils of a cosmic serpent. It is also known as Bhuijasi.
Pashupatinath Temple : (World Heritage Site)
One of the most sacred Hindu shrines in the world, Pashupatinath lies five km east of the city center. The richly-ornamented pagoda houses the sacred linga, or phallic symbol, of Lord Shiva. Chronicles indicate the temple's existence prior to 400 AD. Devotees can be seen taking ritual dips in the holy Bagmati river flowing beside the temple.
Kathmandu Durbar Square : (World Heritage Site)
This complex of palaces, courtyards and temples, built between the 12th and 18th centuries, used to be the seat of the ancient Malla kings of Kathmandu. An intriguing piece here is the 17th- century stone inscription set into the wall of the palace with writings in 15 languages. The Durbar Square is the social, religious and urban focal point of the city. There are also three museums inside the palace building.
Patan Durbar Square : (World Heritage Site)
Like its counterpart in Kathmandu, is an enchanting melange of palace buildings, artistic courtyards and graceful pagoda temples. The former royal palace complex is the center of Patan's religious and social life, and houses a museum containing an array of bronze statues and religious objects. One remarkable monument here is a 17th-century temple dedicated to the Hindu god Krishna, built entirely of stone.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square : (World Heritage Site)
As you walk in, you cannot but be overcome by a feeling of inner harmony. Such is the art and architecture and the spatial layout here. The 15th-century Palace of 55 Windows, situated to the left as you enter through the city gate, inspires admiration. The National Art Gallery is also housed inside. The entrance to the palace, the Golden Gate, is a masterpiece in repousse art. In front of the palace building is a medley of temples of various designs.
