It was once the main trade center between India in the south and Tibet in the northern part of Nepal.

Tourism is the main part of the economy. In 2013, Kathmandu was ranked third among the top ten upcoming travel destinations in the world by TripAdvisor, and ranked first in Asia. Kathmandu is also known as city of temples and a gateway to Nepalese Himalayas and several world heritage sites. There are about 7 world heritage site located within kathmandu valley. Here i will be writing about most popular ones.

Durbar Squares

Durbar squares or Royal squares in English are plazas and areas located opposite to the old Royal Palace of Nepal. Durbar squares are surrounded by Temples, spectacular arts, skills and showcases of Newari artist over several centuries.

There are 3 Durbar squares belonging to different Newar Kingdom before unification of Nepal.

These heritage sites were built by different kings over several centuries and most of the Royal ceremonies and events were organised in those areas therefore it resembles as most important heritage and all of the Durbar squares are listed under UNESCO world heritage sites. And each of them are major tourist attraction due to high concentration of impressive temples and crafts.

• Kathmandu Durbar square :

Popular sights of Kathmandu Durbar Square

• Patan Durbar Square

Popular sight of Patan Durbar Square

• Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Popular sight of Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Boudhanath

“Boudhanath” also known and Boudha Stupa is a one of the sacred site in Nepal located about 11km far from the center of Kathmandu valley and has been one of the most visited site in Nepal with around 10,000 visitors from around the globe. It is also said that the Boudhanath is built by an old women and her sons in 1400 BC where some one say’s it is

What is Stupa?

Stupa is a symbol of the Buddha. To be more precise, Stupa is a state of buddha’s enlightened mind and presence.

The mound in “Boudha Stupa” represents seating and meditating Buddha striving towards enlightenment.

Pashupatinath Temple

Pashupatinath is another name of Lord Shiva. Pashupatinath means master of whole universe.

Pashupatinath temple is the most sacred and oldest Hindu temple in Nepal. Pashupatinath temple has come to existence since 400 BC and it is located in the banks of Bagmati river.

Why Pashupatinath temple is popular destination for tourists?

Pashupatinath temple is one of the four most religious sites in whole Asia. It is the oldest and most sacred hindu temple in Nepal with richly ornamented pagoda houses and sacred linga or holy symbol of Lord Shiva. The Pashupathinath area is so scared that only hindus may enter the temple.

The big Maha Shivaratri festival in spring attracts hundreds of thousands of devotees from within Nepal and from India.There are around 500 temples, 15 Shivalayas (shrines of Lord Shiva) and 12 Jyotirlinga (phallic shrines) to explore. –welcomenepal

Visit Pashuatinath area to explore mix of religious, cultural and spiritual experiences.

Chandragiri hills

One of the best tourists attraction around the valley to explore panoramic view of Kathmandu.The highest land elevation of kathmandu valley. Located 32km far from the city.

On the top of Chandragiri sits a hindu temple “Bhaleswor Mahadev”.To reach the top view of the Chandragiri Hills you will need to take cable car ride which will take you to the top in 9 minutes ( 2.4 km ride).

The Chandragiri hills ltd is a Hospitality company which operates cable car, restaurants, bar, conference hall and amusement park.

Things to do in Kathmandu

• Cultural and Architectural tours( Visiting Durbar Squares , Boudhanath Stupa , Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambunath Stupa and many more)
• Water Sports ( Trishuli river rafting)
• Chandragiri Hills tour (a day trip from kathmandu to the highest land elevation around kathmandu valley)
• Explore More about Kathmandu >> Click Here <<

How long do you need to explore kathmandu?

3-4 days is lot of time to explore the chaotic streets, visit some of the most famous temples, indulge in the Nepali cuisine, bargain your way through the shops and of course, get a taste into the lifestyle. – justglobetrotting

Accomodation cost in kathmandu varies from normal/cheapest rate of $5 to luxury hotels $145.

Upcoming Blog : “Chitwan”

In the Next blog, I will be writing on another beautiful and most visit place called “Chitwan“.