Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is named after Kasthamandapa, a wooden temple constructed from a single tree in 1596. Known as Kantipur, the City of Glory, in ancient times, Kathmandu is a monumental testament to Nepal’s rich cultural heritage.

A Glimpse into History

Believed to have been founded in 723 AD, Kathmandu’s oldest stone idol dates back to the 4th century AD. In antiquity, the city was called Nepal, the land protected by a sage named Ne. Later, the provinces dominated by the kings of Kathmandu were collectively known as Nepal, a name that appears in the Hindu Epic Mahabharata.

Key Attractions in Kathmandu

Kathmandu is brimming with tourist attractions, including Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, and the Living Goddess Kumari. Here are some highlights:

Kathmandu Durbar Square: A Historic Gem

Kathmandu Durbar Square Itinerary

• Distance: 500 meters
• Duration: 1 hour (longer if visiting palaces and temples)
• Number of Temples: 50
• Number of Palaces: 3
• Main Attractions: Kumari Temple, Kasthamandapa, Nautale Palace, Hanuman Dhoka Palace, Kala Bhairav

Also known as Hanuman Dhoka Durbar or Basantapur Durbar, Kathmandu Durbar Square is a must-visit. It is a 30-minute walk from Thamel, the major tourist hub, and a 25-minute walk from the Kings’ Way. Key sites include the Kumari Temple and the Hanuman Dhoka Museum.

As you enter from New Road, you will encounter Nautale Durbar, the nine-storied pagoda-style palace of King Prithvi Narayan Shah, built in 1768. Adjacent to it is Gaddi Durbar, a European-style throne palace built in 1908, and the Kumari Temple, home to the Living Goddess Kumari.

The exterior of the Kumari Temple is ornately decorated with wood carvings, guarded by mighty stone lions. Inside, you’ll find Hindu and Buddhist symbols and deities. Built in the 18th century by the last king of the Malla dynasty, the temple is a significant cultural landmark.

Walking west of the Kumari Temple, you’ll find Kasthamandapa, a three-storied pagoda-style building. With idols of Hindu God Ganesha at its corners and Gorakhnath at the center, it offers a panoramic view of the square from its upper floors.

The Hanuman Dhoka Durbar, once the palace of medieval kings and now a museum, features notable temples like the Taleju, built in 1564, and the 17th-century Kala Bhairava. Before 1950, government employees took their oath of office by touching the idol of Kala Bhairava.

Goddess Kumari: A Living Tradition

The Living Goddess Kumari, a young girl worshiped by both Hindus and Buddhists, plays a significant role in Nepal’s cultural and spiritual life. Traditionally, the king would seek her blessing annually. This practice is now observed by the President. The selection of the Kumari involves rigorous rituals, and she serves until showing signs of puberty.

The tradition dates back to the 16th century when King Trailokya Malla played dice with Goddess Taleju, the Nepali name for Goddess Durga. After the king’s inappropriate desire led the goddess to vanish, she instructed him in a dream to install a young girl as her representative, initiating the Kumari tradition.

Patan Durbar Square: A Cultural Treasure

Patan Durbar Square Itinerary

• Distance: 700 meters
• Duration: 2 hours
• Number of Temples: Over 20
• Main Attractions: Royal Palace, Krishna Temple, Shiva Temple, Bhimsen Temple, White Machhendra

Patan, located a few miles south of Kathmandu, is renowned for its wood carvings, stone sculptures, gilded statues, and tantric paintings. Notable temples and monasteries include:

• Kumbheshwor: A five-storied pagoda-style temple built in the 11th century.
• Mahaboudha: The temple of a million Buddhas, built in 1600.
• Hirnya Varna Mahavihara: The Golden Monastery, built in the 13th century.
• Rudra Varna Mahavihara: A 6th-century Buddhist temple.
• Ashoka Stupas: Four Buddhist temples built by Ashoka in 250 BCE.

Established as a city in 299 CE, Patan, also known as Lalitpur (City of Beauty), boasts an impressive array of architectural and cultural landmarks. The Durbar Square features a 21-pinnacled stone temple of Hindu God Krishna, built in 1635, and a palace-turned-museum showcasing exquisite wood and stone works.

More Sights in Kathmandu Valley

Temples in Kathmandu

1. Baudha: One of the most sacred Buddhist temples, best visited in the late afternoon or on a full moon evening.
2. Swayambhu: A hilltop Buddhist temple offering panoramic views of Kathmandu.
3. Pashupatinath: A Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva, where non-Hindus can explore the vicinity and observe open-air cremations.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

• Distance: 1000 meters
• Duration: 3 hours
• Number of Sights: Over 20

Founded in 889, Bhaktapur is about 5 miles east of Kathmandu. Key attractions include Siddhi Pond, Golden Gate, 55-windowed Palace, and Changu Narayan Temple, built in 323.

Narayanhiti Palace

Once the official residence of Nepal’s kings, Narayanhiti Palace is now a museum. It was the site of the tragic 2001 royal massacre and covers 74 acres of land.

Kings Way (Durbar Marg)

Home to luxury hotels, shopping malls, restaurants, and curio shops, Kings Way is a vibrant part of Kathmandu.

Museums

1. National Museum of Nepal: Showcasing extensive weapon collections and a jeep gifted by Adolf Hitler.
2. Natural History Museum: Exhibiting diverse species and prehistoric specimens.
3. Natural History Museum, Tribhuvan University: Known for its stuffed animals and located in Kirtipur.

Cultural Experiences

Kathmandu offers numerous cultural experiences, including:

• Live Theater: Regular shows at Gurukul, Mandala, Naga, and Sarvanam theaters.
• Movies: Affordable screenings at Jai Nepal, Kumari, Big Cinema, and QFX Central.

Daily Life and Festivals

Kathmandu is famous for its vibrant festivals and public performances. Key events include Indra Jatra, Machhendra Jatra, Bhote Jatra, and Gai Jatra.

Thamel: A hub for budget hotels, restaurants, bars, and shops, Thamel is a must-visit area.

Recommendations in Thamel:

• Paper Park: Handmade paper and products.
• Tea World: Specializing in Nepali tea and coffee.
• Aroma Garden: Aromatic oils, soaps, and incense.
• Pilgrims Book House: A vast collection of books.
• Himalayan Java: European and Nepali coffee and tea.
• Rum Doddle Restaurant and Bar: Featured in Time Magazine, offering food, drinks, and live music.
• Jatra: A popular pub with live music on Fridays and free drinks for ladies on Wednesdays.
• Tom and Jerry: A lively club in Kathmandu.

Nafa Art Gallery: Showcasing Nepali paintings, including the world’s longest painting by a single artist in a single day.

Kathmandu, with its rich history, cultural heritage, and vibrant daily life, offers an unforgettable experience for every visitor. Whether exploring ancient temples, wandering through bustling markets, or immersing yourself in local traditions, there’s something for everyone in this enchanting city.