Kathmandu Valley

The Valley consists of three main cities of great historic and cultural interest Kathmandu, Lalitpur (Patan) and Bhaktapur (Bhadgaon). Situated at an altitude of 1336 meter above the sea level, the Kathmandu Valley covers an area of 21 8sq. miles.

 

Machchhendranath Temple:

The temple of Sweta Machchhendranath is situated at Machchhendra Bahal between Indra Chowk and Asan. It is a papoda of considerable artistic beauty. Also called as Janmadyo or Machchhendra deity.

 

Akash Bhairav Temple:

A three storey temple in the main market avenue, called Indra Chowk, the image of Akash Bhairav is displayed outside for a weck during Indra Jatra, the festival of Indra - the God of Rain.

 

Hanuman Dhoka (Durbar Square):

It is the historic seat of royalty. The Durbar Square, with its old temples and places, epitomizes the religious and cultural life of the people. It is here that Kings of Nepal are crowned and their coronations solemnized. Interesting things to see here are; Taleju Temple built by King Mahendra Malla in 1549 A.D., Kal Bhairav, the God of destruction, Nautalle Durbar, Coronation Nasal Chowk, the Gaddi Baitbak, the statue of King Pralap Malla, the Big Bell, Big Drum and the Jagannath Temple.

On the right-hand corner, larger wooden lattice screen hides an enormous gilded face of Sweta Bhairav. The screen is removed only during the Indra Jatra festival.

There are also Numismatic Museum and Tribhuvan Museum inside the Hanuman Dhoka Palace building. Photography is prohibited inside the meseums. Both the museums remain ciosed on Tuesdays and goverment holidays.

 

Temple of Kumari (Kumari Ghar):

The temple or the residense of Living goddess, Kumari, is situated in the vicinity of Hanuman Dhoka Palace. The building has profusely carved wooden balconies and window screens. The Kumari- the living Goddess, acknowledges the greetings from her balcony window. Photography is prohibited.

 

Kasthamandap:

Located near the temple of Kumari, it is sald to have been built by King Laxmi Narsingha Malla in the beginning of the sixteenth century. It is said to be constructed from the wood of a single tree. The city of Kathmandu derives its name from this temple.

 

Ashok Vinayak:

The small but a very important temple of Ashok Vinayak is situated behind the Kasthamandap - also know as Kathmandu Ganesh or Maru Ganesh.

 

Jaishi Dewal:

Five minutes from Kasthmandap the Shiva Temple of Jaishi Dewal is famous for its erotic carvings. It is still one of the main routes of the chariot festivals of Indra Jatra, Gai Jatra and other festivals.

 

Tundikhel:

A huge green field, flanks one entire side of the old city Tundikhel. Some of the importnat landmarks of Kathmandu valley are located in the periphery of this area. At the south-western end of Tundihkel is a 59.29m. tower bUilt by Prime Minister Bhimsen Thapa in 1832 A.D. known as DharaNara (or Bhimsen Stambha). Sundbarafountains with golden water spouts is situated at the foot of this great tower also belonging to the same period.

 

Martyr's Memorial (Sabid) Gate:

It is located between Bhimsen Stambha and Bhadrakali temple. The memorial arch contains the statue of the late King Tribhuvan Bir Bikram Shah and the busts of four martyrs.

 

Bhadrakali Temple:

At the eastern edge of the TundikNel, near Shabid Gate stands the temple of Goddess Bhadrakali. This temple is also known as Lumarhi temple and is one of the main "Shakta" temples of Kathmandu city.

 

Singha Durbar:

A grand imposing palace built in the neo-classical style. Singha Durbar was the private residence of Rana Prime Minister. Now it is the Secretariat of His Majesty's Government of Nepal.

 

Narayanhity Durbar:

It was the Royal Palace. A famous historic water spout called Narayanhity, is situated at the southern corner of the Palace.

 

Kaisar Library:

Located inside the premises of Ministry of Education, Kaisar library is a great centre of rare and valuable books and manuscripts. It is open for the public except Saturdays and other government holidays. Budhanilkantha: About eight kilometers north of Kathmandu, at the base of Shivapuri hill as a remarkable colossal statue of Lord Visdnu, reclining of the bed of Snake. This is one of the masterpieces of stone sculptures of Lichchhavi period. This fifth century statue is in the middle of a small pond and seems to float in water.

 

Budhanilkantha:

About eight kilometers north of Kathmandu, at the base of Shivapuri hill as a remarkable colossal statue of Lord Vishnu, reclining of the bed of Snake. This is one of the masterpieces of stone sculptures of Lichchhavi period. This fifth century statue is in the middle of a small pond and seems to float in the water.

 

Balaju Water Garden:

Situated about five kilometers North-west of Kathmandu, Balaju Garden features fountains with 22 crocodile-headed water spout dating from the eighteenth century. There is also a swimming pool inside the park.

 

Swayambhunath:

This is one of the world's most glorious Buddhist Chaityas. It is said to be 2000 years old. Painted on the four sides of the spire bases are the all seeing eyes of Lord Buddha. It is three kilometers west of Kathmandu city and is situated on a hillock about 77m. above the level of the Kathmandu Valley.

 

National Museum:

Two and half Kilometers west of Kathmandu, the National Museum has a splendid collection of weapons, artifacts from ancient, medieval and modern Nepal. Its archaeological and Historical displays are worth seeing. The museum is open everyday except Tuesday and government holidays. Natural History Museum: Situated three kilometers west of Kathmandu city behind the femous Swayambhunath hillock. This museum has a unique collection of butterflies, fish, reptiles, birds, mammals, plants and a variety of fossils collected within the country. Photography inside the museum is prohibited. Pashupatinath Temple: Situated five kilometers east of Kathmandu, the temple of Lord Shiva-Pashugatinath with two tiered golden roof and silver doors is famous for its superb architecture. Visitors can ciearly seen the temple and the activities performed in the temple premises from the eastern bank of the Bagmati river.

 

Natural History Museum:

Situated three kilometers west of Kathmandu city behind the famous Swayambhunath hillock. This museum has a unique collection of butterflies, fish, reptiles, birds, mammals, plants and a variety of fossils collected within the country. Photography inside the museum is prohidited.

 

Pashupatinath Temple:

Situated five kilometers east of Kathmandu, the temple of Lord Shiva-Pashupatinath with two tiered golden roof and silver doors is famous for its superb architecture. Visitors can clearly seen the temple and the activities performed in the temple premises from the eastern bank of the Bagmati river.

 

Guheswari Temple:

Near Pashupatinath is located another historic and holy temple of Guheswari. Only Hindus are allowed to enter the temple courtyard.

Lalitpur (Patan):

This ancient city of Palan also known as Lalitpur of the city of fine arts is about five kilometers south-east of Kathmandu. The city is full of Hindu temples and Buddhist monuments. The major tourist attractions of Patan are:

 

Patan Durbar Square:

Situated in the heart of the city consitutes the focus of visitor's attraction. The Square is full of ancient palaces, temples and shrines, noted for their exquisite carvings. The Patan Durbar square consists of three main chowks or courtyards, the Central Mul Cowk, Sundaru Chowk and Keshav Narayan Chowk. The Sundari Chowk holds in its centre a masterpiece of stone architecture, the Royal bath called Tushahity.

 

Krishna Mandir:

Built in the soventeenth century, the temple of Lord Krishna holds a commanding position in the palace complex of Patan. It is suposed to be the first specimen of Shikhara style architecture in Nepal. It is the only temple in Nepal having 21 spires and is completely made of stone.

 

Rudra Varna Mahavihar:

This unique Buddhist monastery contains fine and amazing collection of images and statues in metal, stone and wood. It is believed that the Kings in the ancient times were crowned in this monastery. Many of the treasures offered by the devotees can be seen here even today.

 

The Ashokan Stupas:

There are four ancient stupas popularly believed to have been built in 250 B.C. by Emperor Ahoka at the four corners of Patan. The four stupas are situated in Pulchowk, Lagankhel, Ebahi and in Teta (way to Sano Gaon) respectively. These stupas give evidence to the city's ancient religious importance.

 

Mahaboudba:

A little further east from Patan Durbar Square lies this Buddhist temple made of clay bricks in which thousands of images of Lord Buddha engraved. The terra-cotta structure is one of the fourteenth century Nepalese architectural masterpieces.

 

Hiranya Varna Mahavihar:

Located inside Kwabadehal, this three storey golden papoda of Lokoshwor (Lord Buddba) was built in the twelfth century by King Bhaskar Verma. Inside the upper storey of the pagoda, are the golden image of Lord Buddha and a large prayer wheel.

 

Kumbheshwor:

This fine tiered temple of Lord Shiva was built during the reign of King Jayasthiti Malla. A fair is held here on the Janai Poornima day in August.

 

Jagatnarayan Temple:

Situated at Sankhmul, this tall, imposing temple of Lord Vishnu. The temple has many fine images of stone and an artistic metal statue of Garuda on a stone pillar.

 

Achheswor Mahavihar:

It was established towards the beginning of the seventeenth century by one Achheshwor by building a temple to house and idol of Lord Buddha. The Mahavihar has recently been reconstructed. Situated behind the Ashokan Stupa at Pulchowk, the Mahavihar commands a beautiful view of the Kathmandu Valley.

 

Temple of Machhendranath and Minnath:

The papoda of Red Machhendranath built in 1408 A.D. is situated in Tadahal. For six months the deity is taken to its other shrine in Bungmati. The temple of Minnath is situated in Tangal on the way to Tabahal.

 

The Zoo:

Situated at JawalakNel, the zoo has many animals, birds and reptiles in its collections mostly representing the Himalayan fauna. There is a beautiful pond built in 17th A.D.

 

Bajra Barahi:

Situated in a small woobland park, it is about ten kilometers south of Patan near the village of Chapagaon. A visit to Tika Bhairav and Lele from here is worthwhile.

 

Godavari:

Situated at the foothills of Phulchowki, Royal Botanical Garden has a splendid natural beauty. The road from Patan city runs to Godavari to the south-east, passing through the small, old towns of HarisiddLi, Thaiba and Badegaun. It is the only in Nepal, is open daily including SaturJays and government holidays.

 

Phulchowki:

Located about ten kilometers south-east of Palan, this mountain, 2758 m. high, is a good spot for hiking. A Buddhist shrine is situated on the top of the hill which can be reached through a jeepable road. Bhaktapur (Bhadgaon): Situated at an altitude of 1,401m. Bhaktapur covers an area of 4 square miles. Shaped like a conch-shell. Bhaktapur means the city of devotees. Pottery and weaving are its traditional industries. The city lies about 14 kilometers East of Kathmandu and can by reached by public transport and by trolley buses. The major sightseeing places in Bhaktapur include: Durbar Square: The main square of the city contains innumerable temples and other architectural showpieces like the Lion Gate, the Statue of King Bhupatindra Malla, the Piclure Gallery, the Golden Gate, the Palace of 55 windows, the Batsala temple and the Bell of barking dogs, etc. The statue of the King Bhupatindra Malla in the act of worship is placed on a column facing the palace of the many statues available in Nepal, this is considered to be the most magnificent.

 

Bhaktapur (Bhadgaon):

Situated at an altitude of 1,401 m. Bhaktapur covers an area of 4 square miles. Shaped like a conch-shell. Bhaktapur means the city of devotees. Pottery and weaving are its traditional industries. The city lies about 14 kilometers East of Kathmandu and can by reachad by public transport and by trolley buses. The major sightseeing places in Bhaktapur include:

 

Durbar Square:

The main square of the city contains innumerable temples and other architeclural showpieces like the Lion Gate, the Statue of King Bhupatindra Malla, the Picture Gallery, the Golden Gate, the Palace of 55 windows, the Batsala temple and the Bell of barking dogs, etc. The statue of the King Bhupatindra Malla in the act of worship is placed on a column facing the palace of the many statues available in Nepal, this is considered to be the most magnificent.

 

The National Art Gallery:

Contains ancient and medieval paintings belonging to Hindu and Buddhist schools depicting Tantrism of various periods and descriptions. The Golden Gate is the entrance to the main countyard of the Palace of 55 Windows. Built King Ranjit Malla, the Gate is one of the most beautiful and richly carved specimens of its king in the entire world. This gate is embellished with deities and monsters of marvellous intricacy. The Palace of 55 Windows was built in the soventeenth century by King Bhugatindra Malla. Among the brick walls with their gracious setting and sculptural design, is a balcony of 55 Windows. This balcony is a masterpiece of wood carving. The stone temple of Batsala Devi which is also located in the Durbar Square is full of intricate carvings. This temple also sets a beautiful example of Shikhara style of architecture in Nepal. There is a bronze bell on the terrace of the temple which is also known as the 9iBell of Barking Dogs". This colossal bell, placed in 1737 A.D. was used to sound curfew during tbat time.

 

Nyatapola Temple:

This five-storey pagoda was built in 1702 A.D. by King Bhupatindra Malla. It stands in a five-terraced platform. On each of the terraces squat a pair of figures; two famous wrestlers, two elephants, two lions, two griffins, Baghini and Singhini the tiger and the lion goddesses. This is one of the tallest pagodas and is famous for its massive structure and subtle workmanship.

 

Bhairavnath Temple:

This temple was first built as a one-storey pagoda but later changed into a three-storey temple in 1718 A.D. by King Bhupatindra Malla. The temple is noted for its artistic grandeur. It is dedicated to Lord Bhairav- the God of Terror.

 

Dattatraya Temple:

Built in 1427 A.D. this temple is said to have been built from trunk of a single tree. Near this temple is a monastery with exquistitely carved peucock windows.

 

Surya Vinayak:

Situated in a beautiful surrounding of Bhabgaon, the temple of Ganesh is placed in a Sylvan setting to catch the first rays of the rising sun. It is a good picnic spot flanked by many attractive landscapes.

 

Changu Narayan:

Situated at the end of a long ridge which runs well into the valley, it is said to have been built by King Hari Dutta in 323 A.D. and said to be the oldest temple in the valley.

 

Nagarkot:

Nagarkot is a popular tourist resort of Nepal. It is situated 32 kilometers east of Kathmandu at an altitude of 2,175m. above the scalavel. The panorama of the major paaks of eastern Nepal Himalayas including Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest) can be seen from here.

 

Chabahil:

The lovely Stupa of Chababil is believed to have been built by Charumati, the daughter of the Indian Emperor Ashoka in the third century B.C. There are ancient statues around the Stupa.

 

Chandra Vinayak:

The temple of Chandra Vinayak is situated about 200m north of Chababil stupa. This double tiered brass roofed temple houses a tiny image of Lord Ganesh, the elephant-headed god.

 

Bouddhnath:

The Stupa of Bouddnath lies eight kilometers east Kathamndu. This colossal and ancient Stupa is one of the biggest in the world.

 

Gokarna:

This lovely Royal Game Sanctuary, also known as Gokarna Safari Park, lies about ten kilometers north-east of Kathmandu. Many wild animals such as spotted deer can be viewed in the sanctuary from and elephant back. On the northern side of Gokarna, is a pagoda of Gokarneshwor MaMadev.

 

Sankhu:

It is a typical Newari town, with many fine old buildings and temples. Beyond the village, up a long flight of stone stairs, is Bajra Jogini, a historical temple with a beautiful view of the local area.

 

Sundarijal:

It is famous for its scenic beauty. There are magnificent waterfalls, cataracts and rock formations. It is an ideal place for picnic requiring a short walk after the motorable road.

 

Kirtipur:

It is a small town, eight kilometers south-west of Kathmandu on the top of a hill. Tribhuvan University is located at the foot of the hill. This historic town has many things to offer like old shrines and temples, old houses, the people typically dressed in old traditional costumes, people working on ancient loom etc. This is the city that gave Prithvi Narayan Shah so much trouble in the 18. century.

 

Chobhar:

Situated nine kilometers south-west Kathmandu, this place is famous for its gorge. All the - untreated - water of the valley drain through it. There is a small but picturesque temple of Adinath on the top of a hill. From this top one can have a panoramic view of snow capped mountain peaks. Just pretend not to see the cement factory to the south and you should be OK.

 

Shekha Narayan:

Situated between Chobhar and Dakshinkali the temple of Shekha Narayan represents one of the four Narayans of the Kathmandu Valley. The other three Narayans are Changu Narayan of Bhaktagur, VisankNu Narayan of Patan and Ichangu Narayan of Kathmandu.

 

Dakshinkali:

The temple of Dakshinkali is situated about two kilometers south of Shekha Narayan. Dakshinkali is regarded as one of most important Hindu goddesses. Pilgrims visits this temple to offer their prayer and animal sacrifices to the goddess. Besides, this place has been developed as a popular picnic spot. Saturday is the main Puja day here. Excellent photo opportunities - but do not be intrusive.

 

Places outside Kathmandu:

There are many beautiful and interesting places, to visit outside the Kathmandu Valley-places of historical importance of noted for natural beauty. Most of them can be easily reached from Kathmandu by road or by air.

Kakani:

Located 29 kilometers north-west of the Kathmandu city, the fabulous holidays area of Kakani features attractions ranging from beautiful alpine scenery to the magnificent Himalayan panorama particularly of the Ganesh Himal massif. Other peaks that can be closely seen from Kakani are; Gaurishanker (7~134m.), Choba Bhamre (6,109m), Manaslu (8,163m.), Himalchuli (7,893m.), Annapurna (8,091m.), and several other peaks.  

 

Gosainkunda:

One of the most famous religious places of pilgrimage of Nepal is Gosainkunda lake, situated at an altitude of about 4360 m. The best approach to Gosainkunda is through Dhunche, 132 kilometers north-east of Kathmandu. Dhunche is linked with Kathmandu by a motorable road. Surrounded by high mountains on the north and the south. the lake is grand and picturesque. There are other nine famous lakes such as Saraswati, Bhairav, Sourya and Genesh Kunda etc.  

 

Dhulikhel:

This ancient town is situated 30 kilometers east of Kathmandu on the side of the Arniko Rajmarga (KathmanduKodari Highway). From here one can have a complete panoramic view of the snowy ranges form Karyolung in the east to Himalchuli in the west.  

 

Panauti:

It is a thriving village of the road to Dhulikhel, with some very lovely temples and interesting old houses, particularly beautiful area some fourteen century wooden temple struts. The drive is through beautiful countryside.  

 

Namo Buddha:

It is situated on a hill above Panauti. It requires an easy drive or good walk to get here. There is an amazing story concerned with the Buddha which is commemorated by an ancient stoneslab and a stupa with the all-seeing eyes of Lord Buddba. Timal Narayan: The route from Dhulikhel to Timal Narayan is ideal for a short trek. From here one can have a beautiful view of Gaurishanker Himal and other important peaks as well as Sunkoshi river. It is also very pleasant to visit to the village of the Tamang people who live in this area.  

 

Palanchowk Bhagawati:

7 kilometers north of the mountain of Panchkhal, on the top of a hill lies the noted historic temple of Palanchowk Bhagawati. The temple houses a three feet long besutiful artistic stone image of Goddess Bhagawati.  

 

Charikot:

About 133 kilometers from Kathmandu, Charikot provides a spetacular mountain view of the Gaurishanker. In the eastern upper part of Dolakha township there is a famous roofless temple of Dolakha Bhimsen.  

 

Helambu:

Helambu situated about 72 kilometers north-east of Kathmandu is famous for its scenic grandeur and pleasant climate. There are many Buddhist monasteries amidst a rich and enchanting landscape. Sundarijal is the starting point to trek to Helambu which is mere 11 kilometers away from Kathmandu.  

 

Gorkha:

Gorkha is the birth place of King Prithvi Narayan Shah- the Great, the founder of modern Nepal. Situated on a hill overlooking the snowy peaks of the Himalayas, there is a beautif old palace known as Gorkha Durbar. There are two attractive temples of Gorakhanth and Kali inside the palace precinct. Only Hindus are allowed inside the temple of Gorakhnath. Gorkha can be reached in about six hours from Kathmandu and four hours from Pokhara. A side trip to Manakamana on the way to Gorkha is very enjoyable and interesting.  

 

Muktinath:

The famous temple of Lord Muktinath lies in the district of Mustang and is situated about 18 kilometers north-east of Jomsom at an altitude of about 3,749 meters. The temple is situated on a high mountain range and is visited during fair weather. There are two ways to get to Muktinath from Kathmandu. Either to take a direct flight from Kathmandu via Pokhara to Jomsom and hike for a couple of hours via Kagbeni or to trek all the way from Pokhara.  

 

Pokhara Valley:

The Pokhara Valley one of the most picturesques spot of Nepal, is enchanced by its lovely lakes Phewa, Begnas and Ruga. Situated 200 kilometers west of Kathmandu, PokaMara is connected by air as well or by road from Kathmandu and BhairaMawa a border twon near India. Situated at an altitude of 827 meters from the sea-level, Pokhara offers the magnificient views of Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Machhapuchhre, five peaks of Annagurna and others. Pokhara's numerous lakes, known as "tal' in Nepali offer fishing, boating and swimming.  

 

Tansen:

Situated at an altitude of 1343 m. above the sea-level. Tansen is the most popular summer resort in western Nepal on account of its position and climate. It has perhaps Nepal's most far stretching views of the country's chief attractions, the Himalayas from DhauIagiri in the west to Gaurishanker in the north-east. It takes just seven hours by bus from Pokhara to reach Tansen.  

 

Lumbini:

Lumbini is the birthplace of Lord Buddba, the apostle of peace and non-violence. It is situated 250 kilometers soUth-west of Kathmandu. The broken Ashokan Pilar, remnants of an old monastery, images of Buddba's mother Maya Devi, etc. are still preserved in Lumbini. It is accessible by air from Kathmandu to Bhairahawa. Also one can reach Lumbini in about 3 hours by bus or car from Tensen via Bhairahawa. From KathmandU it takes about eight hours by bus or car.  

 

Rapti Valley (Chitwan):

From Kathmandu it takes six hours to reach Chitwan. Situated 120 kilometers south-west of Kathmandu, the main attraction of Chitwan National Park. This is one of the Nepal's largest forest regions with a wide range of wildlife-the rare great one horned rhinoceros, several species of deer sloth bear, leopard, wild boar, fresh water dolphin, crocodile, more tban 350 spacies of birds and the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger. Visitors to Chitwan may view game on elephant back excursions nature walks, from the window and on jungle treks. There are several authorized agencies to organize such safaris. Visitors may also take river raft, driving from Kathmandu to the river Trishuli or Seti Khola.  

 

Daman:

It is situated 80 kilometers south-west of Kathmandu at an altitude of about 2,400 meters. Daman is located on the TribLuvan Highway in between Kathmandu and the town of Birqunj. For the view of the breathtaking grandeur of the world's highest peaks extending in one glittering are from far-west of Dhaulagiri to far-east of Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest) there is no better place tban Daman. There is a view tower fitted with long range telescopes. Daman can be reached in four hours from Kathmandu.  

 

Namche Bazaar:

The name of Namche Bazaar is generally associated with that of Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest),the highest paak in the world. It is the enterance to the Everest region. Namche Bazaar is about 241 km. from Kathmandu and the distance is generally covered within 15 days by trekking. This place is the home of the legendary Sherpas. One can fly from Kathmandu to Lukla and Syangboche in the Everst region. Accommodations are available at Lukla, Namche bazaar, Thyangboche, Loduche and Gorakhshep respectively.  

 

Janakpur:

A great religious place, Janakpur is famous as the birthplace of Sita, the consort of Lord Ram. There is an artistic marble temple of Sita (Janaki), popUlarly known as Naulakha Mandir. Religious festivals, pilgrimages, trade fairs and other festivities are held here on Bivaha Panchami and Ram Navami days. JanaRpur is also linked with Kathmandu by air and road.  

 

Biratnagar:

The second largest city of Nepal, Biratnagar is situated in the Koshi Zone. The city has some of the largest industrial undertakings in the country. There are a couple of pilgrimage spots in Dharan and Baramachhetra nearby the city. Biratnagar is linked with Kathmandu by air and road.  

 

Barahachhetra:

A few kilometers from the main city of Biratnagar. Baramachhetra, the holy place of Hindu pilgrimage, lies at the confluence of the two rivers the Saptakoshi and Kokana. There is the temple of Lord Baraha, the boar incarnation of Vishnu. Historians have traced the existence of this image from the twelfth century.  

 

Hile:

It is situated about 13 kilometers North of Dhankula Bazaar. The panorama of the major peaks of the eastern Himalayas including Sagarmatba (Mt. Everest), Makalu, Lhotse and Kumbhakarna  

Antu Danda:

It is situated at an altitude of 1,677m. in the llam district and is famous for its unique views of Everest and Kanchenjunga. It is the best place for viewing sunrise and sunset.