Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, Kathmandu is a city where timeworn heritage and vibrant street life coexist in harmony. Kathmandu is a blend of ancient history, stunning architecture, spiritual depth, cultures, and bustling modernity.
For travellers seeking an unforgettable experience, Kathmandu offers a tapestry of experiences including stunning temples, UNESCO World Heritage sites, bustling Markets, and breathtaking landscapes.
Kathmandu is home to UNESCO World Heritage sites, boasting cultural and historical Sites. For travellers wondering “where to go in Kathmandu”, this guide is carefully curated to help you plan an unforgettable trip and make the most of your journey in Kathmandu, leaving you inspired and amazed. Find the list of the best places to see in Kathmandu.
7 UNESCO World Heritage sites in Kathmandu Valley
Kathmandu is home to 7 UNESCO World Heritage sites, each with a rich history, culture, and stories. Get the list of world heritage sites in Kathmandu with their features.
Pashupatinath Temple: a sacred sanctuary by the Baghmati
Pashupatinath is one of the most sacred Hindu temples, a major spiritual landmark dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple complex is one of the World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu. This temple houses the holy lingam of Lord Shiva and the largest Nandi bull statue. The sacrasanctum is a stone of Mukhalinga with a silver snanadroni base bound with a silver serpent. It is one meter high and has four directional faces representing different forms of Shiva.
Pashupatinath, situated on the banks of the Bagmati River, is a major pilgrimage site for devotees and draws thousands of Hindu pilgrims each year from across the globe. This revered site, with its golden pagoda-style architecture and unique spiritual energy, is a must-visit place in Kathmandu.
Pashupatinath is the best place for witnessing festivals like Maha Shivratri. On this day, they burn firewood and eat Prasad that is used for Shiva. One of the major attractions of the festival is the Indian ‘Naga babas’ who remain nude and offer puja in their typical manner to Lord Shiva, one of the Trinity that dominates the Hindu religion.
Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu
Teej is another major festival for women to celebrate, where they worship lord Shiva. Lord Shiva is believed to be worshipped on Monday, so the Pashupati temple is quite busy on Monday.
You can participate in the evening aarti (a prayer ceremony that happens every day) for a truly spiritual experience. Cremation ceremony of Hindus can be witnessed along the Ghat, and you can also explore expansive temple grounds filled with centuries-old shrines.
The temple area also includes Deupatan, Jaya Bageshori, Gaurighat (holy bath), Kutumbahal, Gaushala, Pingalasthan, and Sleshmantak Forest. You can find around 492 temples, 15 Shivalayas (shrines of lord Shiva), and 12 Jyotirlinga (Phallic Shrines) in Pashupatinath. Get the detail of Kathmandu full day tour that include visit to Pashupatinath Temple.
Practical Information
How to Enter Pashupatinath: The temple has four entrances in different directions. The western entrance is the main entrance that is open every day. But the remaining three entrances are open only during festivals.
Entry fees at Pashupatinath
NPR 1000 per day, per entry for foreign nationals.
NPR 1000 per day, per entry for SAARC nationals, except for Indian nationals, which is free.
Children under 10 are free to enter for all nationals.
Visit Hours
The temple complex is open daily, but only Hindus are allowed to enter the inner sanctum. The temple is mainly open from 4:00 am to 2:00 pm (Morning Prayer) and 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm (Evening Arati).
Boudhanath Stupa – the peaceful Eye of Kathmandu
Boudhanath Stupa is one of the largest spherical stupas in Asia and is the eye of Kathmandu. Your trip is incomplete without this magnificent UNESCO World Heritage site of Kathmandu. Along with Swayambhunath and Namo Buddha, it is one of the most visited pilgrims’ sites for devout Buddhists, which has made Boudhanath a major tourist attraction in Kathmandu.
It is believed to have been built in the 14th century. The stupa’s consecrated Body relics include authentic bone pieces of the Kassapa Buddha and Shakyamuni Buddha, together with Dharma kaya relics, Dharma relics, cloth relics, and relics of body, speech, and mind, among its other relics.
Boudhanath Stupa in Kathmandu
Encircled by chanting monks, the gentle spin of prayer wheels, and fluttering prayer flags, this cultural place is a haven for Buddhist devotees. When the sun sets over the Bouddhanath stupa, the atmosphere becomes magical. The devotees light butter lamps and offer prayers, and the sound of chanting fills the air.
The major festivals celebrated in Bouddhanath are Buddha Jayanti (held in May), Lhosar, a Tibetan festival held in January or February each year, and Saga Dawa, a candlelight festival held on Buddha Jayanti in late April.
If you are wondering where to visit next. In that case, there are many attractions near Bouddha that you can explore, such as the Ajima/Hariti shrine, the Taragon Museum, the Shechen Monastery, the Pashupatinath Temple, and the Kopan Monastery.
Practical Information
Size: Bouddhanath stupa is 36 meters tall and 100 meters wide
Entry fees to Bouddhanath
NPR 400 for foreign nationals and NPR 100 for SAARC Residents.
Local Nepalese and Children below 10 are free to enter.
Visit Hours: The stupa complex is open daily from morning until evening, with the stupa itself open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Patan Durbar Square: A City of Fine Arts
Patan Durbar Square, situated across the Bagmati River in Patan, Nepal, is a treasure trove of medieval architecture and traditional craftsmanship that shows Newar artistry and urban planning.
Patan Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular destination for sightseeing tours. The Patan, with its intricate wood carvings, bronze statues, and centuries-old temples, is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Kathmandu, boasting a history that dates back to the 16th and 18th centuries. Patan is full of hidden courtyards and local artisan shops, if you wander through narrow lanes.
The square is home to the Patan Museum, golden temples, the Taleju Bhawani Temple, and the stunning Krishna Temple that offers an immersive journey into the Malla dynasty’s legacy, making it a wonderful historical place to visit.
You can also find royal courtyards, such as Mul Chowk and Sundari Chowk, along with temples and monuments. Patan hosts a variety of cultural activities and events throughout the year, which make it a cultural hub in Kathmandu with its historical and architectural monuments.
The Patan Durbar Square
The Kumari Jatra is a special celebration in Patan. Kumari Jatra, also known as the Living Goddess Festival, is celebrated to honor Kumari, who represents the benevolent goddess who is believed to guard the Kathmandu Valley.
The Machhindranath Jatra is also known as the Rain God’s Chariot Procession. Machhindranath Jatra is a significant celebration in Patan that takes place during the monsoon season. A massive wooden chariot is paraded through the streets of Patan as part of the festival celebration, which is very interesting and fun to watch.
Practical information
Entry fees to Patan Durbar Square
NPR 1000 for foreign nationals and NPR 250 for SAARC nationals. This fee also includes entry to the Patan Museum. The Patan Golden Temple charges a separate entry fee of NPR 100 for foreigners and NPR 50 for SAARC citizens.
Opening Hours
Open daily from morning to evening. The gallery/ museum is open from 8:00 am to 6:30 pm (closes at 5:30 pm in winter, November 2nd to January 30th).
Keshav Narayan Chowk, Mul Chowk, Sundari Chowk open from 7 am to 6:30 pm (closes at 5:30 pm in winter)
Kathmandu Durbar Square: Royal history in the capital
Kathmandu Durbar Square is also known as Basantapur Durbar and Hanuman Dhoka. It is a historic site to visit that served as the royal palace for the kings of the Malla and Shah dynasties. It was built during the Licchavi period (4th to 8th centuries), and King Pratab Malla then extended significantly in the 17th century. As a unique place to visit, the Durbar Square has attracted numerous tourists from around the world.
The Kathmandu Durbar Square is home to intricately carved wooden buildings, including the Kumari Ghar (the abode of the living goddess) and the Taleju Temple, making it a major tourist attraction in Kathmandu. Durbar has two courtyards, the outer Kasthamandap, Kumari Ghar, and Shiva-Parvati Temple, and the inner section consisting of Hanuman Dhoka and the main palace.
Kathmandu Durbar Square
Along with these, there are the Jagannath Temple, Nasal Chowk, Narsingha Statue, Swet Bhairav, Shisha Baithak, Tribhuwan Museum, and Kal Bhairab. It remains a striking representation of Newar heritage.
With cultural sites, you can also experience traditional rituals and festivals, such as Indra Jatra, Kumari Jatra, Gai Jatra, and Seto Machhindranath Jatra, making it the best place to visit in Kathmandu with your family.
Practical information
Entry fees: NPR 1000 for foreign nationals and NPR 150 for SAARC nationals. Free for children under 10
Opening Hours
Open daily from morning to evening (Kumari visit has specific time from 9:00 am -11:00 am and 2:00 pm-5:00 pm)
Durbar is open from 10:30 am to 4:30 pm, Tuesday to Saturday, and until 2:30 pm on Sundays. It is closed on Monday.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square: A Living Museum
Bhaktapur Durbar Square is a historic place to visit in the Kathmandu Valley. Bhaktapur is one of the three Durbar in the valley, which is listed as a World Heritage site. It is the former royal complex and was the political, religious, and cultural center of the Malla kings during their rule from the 12th to the 18th century. Bhaktapur is very rich in History and an ideal destination to explore with families and children.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square boasts a rich history of kings, reflected in awe-inspiring structures like the 55-window Palace and the Natyapola Temple, icons of the city’s grandeur. The key sites to visit in Bhaktapur include the Vatshala Temple (dedicated to Lord Shiva), the Vishnu Temple, the Royal Palace, the Bhairab Nath Temple, the Statue of King Bhupatindra Malla, the Dattatreya Temple, and the Square.
Nyatapole Temple in Bhaktapur
The Newari tradition encompasses a range of cultural activities. Major festivals of the Newars, including Bisket Jatra, GaJatra, and Navadurga Jatra, are celebrated.
Practical Information
Entry fees to Bhaktapur
NRS 1,000 for SAARC (and Chinese) nationals, NRS 2,000 for foreigners, and free for children under 10 years old.
For the national art museum: Foreigner NRs 150, SAARC NRs 50, and Nepalese NRs 25
(National Art Museum charges an extra NPR 100 for a normal camera (NPR 50 for SAARC) and NPR 200 for a movie camera (NPR 100 for SAARC).
Visit hours: The Complex opens 24/7. For the ticket counter, hours are 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The National Art Museum is closed on Tuesday and Wednesday, and it’s open from 10:15 AM to 4:30 PM (closes at 3:30 PM in winter). On Monday, hours are 10:30 AM - 2:30 PM.
Swayambhunath Stupa- The Monkey Temple
Swayambhunath Stupa is also known as the Monkey Temple, and it is a renowned travel destination in Kathmandu. This sacred site from the 5th century is a blend of Hindu and Buddhist symbolism, featuring a golden spire, sweeping city views, and ever-curious monkeys that make it a Major tourist attraction in Kathmandu.
Sayambhu means "self-existent one". It was built by King Manadev, dating back to 460 A.D. The stupa is deeply symbolic, as the white dome represents the earth and the 13-tier, tower-like structure at the top symbolises the 13 stages to nirvana. The nose-like squiggle below the piercing eyes represents the Nepali number 'ek' (one), which signifies unity, and above is a third-eye symbol, representing the all-seeing insight of the Buddha.
You can see the huge gold-plated Vajra 'thunderbolt' set on the east side of the stupa, the Buddha stupa on the west side, the sleeping Buddha, the Dewa Dharma Monastery, and the temple dedicated to Harati.
Swayambhunath Stupa
Swayambhunath Stupa is a great place to visit with children to receive blessings. Major attractions in the area also include Ajima Temple, World Peace Pond, and the Anantapur and Pratappur temples. You can enjoy festivals such as Gunla Parva, Buddha Jayanti (the anniversary of Siddhartha Gautama's birthday), and Loshar (Sonam, celebrated by the Tamang in February) here.
Swayambhunath Stupa is home to the many architectural styles which inlcudes Shikhar style (Ajima Temple), dome style (Sayambhu Stupa), the Pagoda style (Pratappur and Anantpur temples), and the Newari style. This beautiful place offers stunning photography opportunities, particularly during sunrise and sunset visits.
Practical Information
Entry fees: NPR 200 for foreign nationals, NPR 50 for SAARC nationals, and free for children below 10.
Changu Narayan Temple: the oldest Temple in Nepal
Perched atop a peaceful hill near Bhaktapur, Changu Narayan temple is Nepal’s oldest temple, dating back to the 4th century. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The Changu Narayan Temple is one of the cultural UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu, most elaborately constructed in the Kathmandu Valley, featuring a two-tier pagoda structure. The temple is gilded with a copper roof with a pinnacle. There are 108 stairs to climb before the temple.
The Changunarayan temple
The Changunarayan temple was built during the Licchavi era, showcasing the outstanding arts and architecture of that era. There is a kneeling statue of King Bhupantindra Malla and his queen, Bhuwan Lakshmi, resting in front of the temple. The statue of Trivikratha (lord Vamana), a six-armed statue, was built in the 8th century and is the major attraction of the place. Beside this is the statue of Lord Narasimha.
Practical Information
Entry Fees in Chagunarayan temple: It cost NPR 300 for foreigners and NPR 100 for SAARC residents to enter the temple area and visit.
Visit hours: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Local markets to visits in Kathmandu
Other than its historical and spiritual attraction, Kathmandu is covered with vibrant marketplaces and modern attraction depicting its dynamic spirit.
Thamel Market- the Traveller’s Hub
Thamel is the pulsating centre of the tourist area in Kathmandu, renowned for its lively streets, colourful shops, and buzzing nightlife. It is a busy local area that contains stores, coffee shops, and restaurants. If you are looking for souvenirs, trekking gear, or a global food scene, Thamel is the place you must visit. It has evolved from a hippie haven in the 1970s to the bustling tourist hub it is today. Those wondering “Where to visit in Kathmandu” for nightlife and shopping instead of historical sites, Thamel is the one you must visit.
Families would love to explore the handicraft stores and art galleries, where couples may want to spend their evening at the rooftop restaurants. Thamel Market not only offers a shopping area, but it is also a cultural experience displaying respect to the modern spirit of Kathmandu as much as it respects its heritage, with many of its winding alleys crammed with live music venues, bookshops, and traditional Newari eateries.
The Asan Bazaar, one of the most colourful and culturally diverse tourist attractions in Kathmandu, gives one a feeling of the centuries-old tradition of trade in this country. The City’s beating heart, Asan, is a chaotic yet charming market if you are looking for local items like spices, textiles, and household goods. It is the oldest and busiest market that gives you a local experience that shows the City’s vibrant street commerce and sensory richness.
Squeezing in the narrow lanes of Asan are shops stocked with all types of fruits and vegetables, spices, traditional clothes, brass items, religious artifacts, and souvenirs. Asan is the best place that allows a traveller to get an original taste of the local life that Kathmandu offers.
The goods are not the only thing that makes the bazaar beautiful. There are also small temples and shrines in Asan, where people stop and offer prayers between their shopping duties. There is the Annapurna Temple, a spiritual focal point of the goddess of abundance. The magic is particularly great in the early mornings when the vendors are setting up their goods, and one can smell the incense and street food such as samosas and sel roti.
Wondering where to visit in Kathmandu for an immersive cultural journey? Whether you are a family looking to experience the busy street of Kathmandu, a couple who wants to spend a nice day in ancient alleys, or a person traveling alone, Asan Bazaar can be a perfect place to examine hundreds of the most versatile souvenirs and gifts.
Being at the centre, it can be incorporated with the walking tour of the old City of Kathmandu and other adjacent attractions such as the Kathmandu Durbar Square and Indra Chowk. Asan is not a place to shop, a place to eat out, but a whole experience that represents the heritage of the capital of Nepal.
Narayanhiti Palace Museum – Glimpse into Royal Life
Step into Nepal's royal past at the Narayanhiti Palace Museum, once the residence of Nepalese royalty after the abolishment of the Monarchy in 2008, which now opens its halls to the public, showcasing the private lives of Nepal's last monarchs, like royal artifacts and rooms frozen in time.
Being a combination of traditional Nepalese architecture and the design of the mid-20th century, Narayanhiti Palace is a heartbreaking reminder of the moment when the state shifted from Monarchy to the republic. So, this place may be perfect to visit with your children and family to get some historical knowledge of the royals in Nepal.
Lavishly decorated halls and historic rooms offer an intriguing contrast to Kathmandu's ancient temples, which makes it a unique place to visit.
The tour of Narayanhiti Palace Museum takes a visitor through the 52 rooms, which are named after the districts of Nepal, displaying the royal family life and important historical events. The Throne Room, where one sees the huge chandelier and tiger skin carpets, continues to be impressive to many. The palace and its surroundings are further adorned with well-manicured gardens and a beautiful main gate outside.
Located in proximity to Durbar Marg, this museum is tourist-friendly and presents a great cultural experience to history lovers and people who would like to get to know more about Nepal of recent times. Visiting this place not only adds value to your Kathmandu travel agenda but also offers you exclusive experiences that can be of relevance to a critical moment in Nepal's history.
Practical information
Entry fees
Rs. 50 for Nepali students
Rs. 200 for Nepali citizens
Rs. 500 for SAARC and Chinese Nationals
Rs. 1000 for foreign nationals
Visiting hours
10:30 am-3:30 pm (Thursday to Monday)
10:30 am-1:30 pm (Tuesday)
Wednesday it remains closed, also on all public holidays
Kirtipur- Real Newari Atmosphere
Kritipur is a secluded gem of a hilltop town in the southwest of Kathmandu, where Newari culture and ancient temples such as Bagh Bhairab survive. Its name means “kriti”-Glory, “pur”- city. Having its Cobblestone streets, red brick houses, quiet alleys, and local authentic foods like “Chatamari” and “Yomari”, it is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Kathmandu that could give a tourist a taste of the real lifestyle of Newars.
Tribhuvan University, when visited, takes you through some peaceful gardens and gives some insight into the local student life, and not much away, Taudaha Lake serves as a natural and calm retreat for the birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. The combination of cultural diversity, old architecture, and beautiful scenery makes Kirtipura a perfect point for a Kathmandu day trip, allowing tourists to be closer to the anti-modernity traditions of Nepal.
It has many temples and monasteries. Kritipur’s Nagh Bhairab Temple is seeing increased local tourists in spring, perfect for cultural enthusiasts. You can visit Chilancho Stupa, Tri Ratna Temple, Dev Pukku, the Bagh Bhairab Temple, and Shri Kirtivihara (the only Thai temple in Nepal outside Lumbini). As you stroll through its quiet alleys, panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley and distant Himalayan peaks add to Kirtipur’s timeless charm.
Dedicated to the fierce goddess Kali, the Dakshinkali temple is a famous place to visit in Kathmandu for its intense energy and religious devotion. Located in a forested gorge south of Kathmandu, this temple gives you a unique cultural experience where animals are sacrificed as a ritual, which offers insight into local tradition. It’s an eye-opening experience for culturally curious travellers. It is believed that the Malla ruler built this temple because of the order of Goddess Kali, who appeared in his dream in the 14th century.
The fierce energy and protective power of the goddess come across in the striking idol of Kali, the worshipped goddess of the temple, with the garlands and symbolic weapons. Goddess protects your family from bad when you worship here, so you should visit here with your family. Natural beauty all around it provides the soothing contrast to the barren yet highly spiritual surroundings of the temple, making it both an interesting pilgrimage destination as well as an interesting attraction to all avid travellers.
This temple is especially active on Tuesday and Saturday as they believe in sacrificing on these days. Dashain is the major festival celebrated here with the sacrifice of an animal as an act of devotion.
The route in itself goes through picturesque villages and pine forests and provides a glimpse of rural life. The beautiful village of Pharping and monasteries are just around the corner, making it an ideal trip to both the Hindu and the Buddhist heritages in a row. Looking to get a little religious or an excursion away on a day trip out of Kathmandu, the Dakshinkali Temple is an opportunity to give you a rare glimpse of the living beliefs and traditions of Nepal.
Practical Information
Opening hours: the temple is open from 6 am to 9 pm (they have a break between 1:00 pm and 2:00 pm)
Entry fee: It is free.
Location: It lies 22 kilometres south of Kathmandu
Pharping Monastery – A Spiritual Retreat
Pharping Monastery, home of many monasteries with Tibetan Buddhist monks and a sacred cave, which is situated near Dakshinkali, which is blessed by Guru Rinpoche. It is believed that Guru Padmasambhava (Rinpoche) had attained enlightenment here.
Pharping Monastery is one of the peaceful cultural places to visit in Kathmandu that provides you with a quiet contemplation, meditation caves, colourful monasteries, valley views, and serene walks through pine forest. You can find the Asura cave, hand print (with history records), main images (Guru Rinpoche, Yangdak Heruka, and Vajrakilaya), and the Vajra Yogini Temple.
Neydo Tashi, Guru Rinpoche, Mahaguru Monastery, and New Azom Monastery can be visited here. One of the most tourist destinations in Kathmandu, Pharping offers a perfect combination of spiritual heritage and nature, such that they are easily visited by both locals who would like to make a pilgrimage in Kathmandu and international tourists who would love to see world heritage sites in Kathmandu and the Nepal region.
The peaceful atmosphere and beautiful views of Pharping Monastery are among the reasons why it can be called one of the top attractions in Kathmandu with kids and family.
A couple can enjoy quiet moments amidst prayer flags fluttering in the mountain breeze, while families can explore the nearby Asura and Yanglesho caves, which are believed to have been meditated in by Guru Padmasambhava. Pharping Monastery is a place to visit in Kathmandu that will give you a good blend of spirituality, history, cultures, nature, and city life, a place to visit in Kathmandu that allows you to enjoy a rejuvenating day trip.
Garden of Dreams – A Neoclassical Oasis
Garden of Dreams, a lovely restored Edwardian-style garden near Thamel, was originally built in the early 20th century. Its European-style and zen atmosphere makes it perfect to walk in and out in peace, absorbing books, or just retreating to the outskirts of Kathmandu's hustle and bustle for a couple of hours.
It is a place for relaxation amidst city chaos with fountains, an Amphitheatre, pavilions, and manicured lawns, various planting areas, surrounded by a sunken flower garden with a large pond at its centre, making your heart relax and at peace. Each of the six pavilions shows the Garden's Architectural framework that is dedicated to one of the six seasons in Nepal. This is the most beautiful place to visit in Kathmandu after all the busy roads.
The Garden of Dreams is a place of a relaxing atmosphere in which kids can play in the open space and adults can rest, drinking coffee in the splendid Kaiser Cafe in the garden. No matter whether you are a single traveller who is in need of rest and relaxation, or whether you are a couple, in search of a romantic destination, this old garden is a secret legend that cannot be left unexplored.
Practical Information
Entry fees:
NRs. 150 for Nepalese
NRs. 400 for non-Nepalese
50% discount for older people (60+ age), students, differently-abled, children between 5-12 years
White Gumba (Seto Gumba) – A Symbol of Peace in Kathmandu’s Hills
A hilltop Gem not mentioned in many travel guides, the White Gumba, also known as Seto Gumba, is absolutely breathtaking with mountains in all directions and colourful murals to look at. It is definitely a place to visit in Kathmandu and should not be missed. This monastery was built in the 1960s by Lama Geshe Wangyal.
White Gumba is known for its striking architecture and panoramic views, which suit morning people and those who need a peaceful atmosphere and the ambiance of the spiritual world. Visitors can admire intricate Tibetan art and explore peaceful gardens within the Kathmandu Valley. This place is particularly visited during sunset and sunrise, offering a tranquil getaway in the city without requiring a long travel distance.
To all the wonders where to go to in Kathmandu to spend a day full of culture and tranquillity, White Gumba would be the right place to go. It is a great place where families can spend a day, and couples will adore its peaceful paths and serene spots. Seto Gumba is an established place of attraction, adorned with spiritual history, aesthetic heritage, and scenic views that should not be missed by travelers who want to view Kathmandu in a different light.
Chandragiri Hill – cable car to the clouds
Chandragiri Hill is one of the major tourist attractions in Kathmandu, offering stunning vistas and an exciting cable car ride that takes you to Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple, as well as a picnic site with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Chandragiri Hill played a vital role in Nepal’s unification under King Prithvi Narayan Shah, which has made Nepal a combination of beauty, culture, and tradition.
In this way, the vicinity of the Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple, situated atop a hill, lends the temple a certain spiritual ambiance. In contrast, the park areas surrounding it make the temple particularly popular among families with children (with picnic and day out being one of the top options on the list). The trip itself becomes an adventure, thanks to the modern cable car system, as Chandragiri is very accessible.
More than that, you can also experience adventures like hiking, zip-lining, Pony rides, and nature walks. To see the Himalayas without any tiresome hikes, the cable car ascending the Chandragiri hill offers spectacular panoramas and it is even possible to spot Mt. Everest during the clear days.
Practical Information
Cable car fee
NRs. 495 (825 for round trip) for Nepalese
NRs. 790(1320 for round) for Indian and SAARC residents
USD 9 (USD 16 for round) for Chinese Citizens
USD 13 (USD 23 for round) for foreign nationals)
Children up to 3 feet –free, 3 feet-4 feet gets 40% discount
Budhanilkantha Temple, situated at the foot of Shivapuri Hill, is a huge image of the reclining Vishnu carved from stone floating in water on the bed of serpents. Also, a mirror-like image of Lord Shiva appears beside the statue in the pond. In the 7th century, carved from a single block of black basalt, it is probably the largest stone carving in Nepal, measuring 5 meters in length. Its origin is shrouded in mystery, making it a renowned destination due to its significant religious influence and rich iconography.
People particularly go during the Haribodhini Ekadashi Festival, which usually falls on the 11th day of the waxing moon in the Hindu lunar month of Kartik (October-November), celebrating Vishnu’s awakening from his cosmic sleep. Sindoor Jatra is also another festival in Gamcha Chaur.
As a local legend, a few centuries ago, one day, a farmer ploughing his field came across this statue. Since then, people have been visiting the spot and paying their respects, as it was believed to be a source of divine power. The main sanctum is restricted to Hindus, but non-Hindus can view and take photos of the statue through the outer courtyard, which is nevertheless a memorable experience.
People commonly come to admire the peaceful atmosphere of the place, and culture lovers get fascinated by the elaborate artwork and the old myths about the statue. This spiritual place can be easily reached in half an hour from the airport, making it an ideal half-day excursion for those interested in exploring the culture of Kathmandu.
Nearby, you can also see Shivapuri National Park, which serves as a starting point for treks and hikes to the one love forests, waterfalls, rivers, and nature-filled walkways. There are places like Bishnudwar Dham, Kopan Monastery, Bagdwar, Shivpuri Chuchura, Nagigumba, and the way to Chisapaani and Sundarijal.
Khokana Village- The village of Mustard oil and Timeless Charm
Khokana village is just a stone's throw away from Bungmati, which gives a splendid experience of the rural soul of Nepal. With all the noise, mending of black topped roads, and a busy metropolis, this village is a pocket of the past with a small, peaceful neighborhood where houses are still built of wood, paths are made of stone tiles, and the silence of a world that wants to stay intact, undisturbed, and immobile.
Khokana is widely known as the producer of traditional mustard oil, i.e., wood-roasted mustard oil (called Ghani), and is virtually an open-air museum of Newar agrarian culture. Observe the locals use freshly pressed mustard seeds into a golden oil that has been practiced for centuries.
The core of the village is the Sikali Temple, where the annual Sikali Jatra (September-October), in place of the Dashain festival in other places, is held. This special festival includes colorful mask dances of gods and demons, giving the visitor a glimpse of the esoteric Newar rituals hardly open to foreign eyes. Other festivals and rituals include JathaPuhni Jatra, Gaijatra (GunhiPunhi), Khayasanhu, Bhimsen puja, Paha- Charhey, and SithiNakha.
As you stroll the cobblestone paths, Khokana shows you a picture of handmade wooden windows, drying up chilies in the sun, and ducks going by the conventional water tap. The Rudrayani Temple, a three-story building, is a photogenic highlight in the center of the village, which is said to have been reconstructed by King Amara Malla in the 15th century.
The environment surrounds Khokana with a rural landscape of rice paddies and mustard fields, making it an ideal setting to take pictures at sunrise or go on a casual walk. Heading just 8 km out of Kathmandu, it is a fast cultural step that makes you feel light years away from the maddening city.
There is a beautiful water pond that shows the culture of this village. De Pukhu (God Pond), one of the big rectangular ponds, is the place where a group of young men take a swim and a goat is sacrificed by drowning during Rudrayani Jatra on Janai Purnima. After that, the young men fight over the goat that is dead goat. And during Sikhali Jatra, the winning group should show a cultural drama named "KhaPyakha". Besides that, there are several other ponds with cultural insights such as KhaPukhu, Pala Pukhu, Ga Pukhu, Kutu Pukhu, DhokasuPukhu, SamalPukhu, Tar Pukhu, and PhongaPukhu.
The second week of September to November is the most advisable time to visit because mustard flowers bloom and the village is in a vivacious form of festivals. You will be able to feel the most beautiful and cultural place to visit in Kathmandu. To have a fuller experience, pair your visit with Bungmati to complement your visit.
Bungmati Village- A living Museum of Newar Heritage
The Bungmati Village is like the doors of time traveling into a medieval town in Newar with slow time and the essence of tradition permeating every brick. Bungmati is a historic village, also referred to as Amarapur. At least three legends suggest the name.
It is said in one of the legends that the name Bungamati originated through the combination of two words, Bunga (Bungadyo) and Mati (River). In another tale, the three words that are united in the local language called Newari are presented as, namely, Bu (agricultural field), ga (low land), and mati (rivers), directly meaning agricultural land in the low land consisting of a lot of rivers.
Modern mythical historians assume that the settlement of Bungamati was established before the development of civilization in Kathmandu, when the Kathmandu Valley was a lake. According to Swayambhu Purana, there was a kingdom called Bandhumati around the lake. Historians suppose that the name comes from the word Bandhumati, which transformed with time into Bungamati.
However, the most significant evidence of Bungamati's presence in the ancient period, dated to 605, is the stone stele of King Amshuverma, which mentions Bungamati as Bugayumigrama. This term can be translated as "Buga-water resource, Yumi-Kirat Goddess, Grama-Village." Therefore, historians declare the existence of Bungamati in the Kirat period. On yet another legend, the town was established, bringing hundreds of people from Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan, after Lord Machhendranath had been brought to the valley to put an end to the 12-year drought by King Narendradeva.
The old town, a possible birthplace of Rato Machhindranath, the rain god of both Hindus and Buddhists, is the destination of most travelers as they get a rare opportunity to view the living heritage of Nepal. Intricately carved wooden houses edge the main square and the pagoda temples, one of them being the famous Rato Machhindranath Temple, in which the god sleeps for half the year. Then he spends the rest of the time in Patan.
When moving him back and forth between Patan and Bungmati, they celebrate the most significant yearly festival in a valley, which is Rato Machhindranath Jatra. The Visit during the colorful Rato Machhindranath Jatra (April-May), and the delight as villagers drag a large chariot along the village, in the expression of faith and mutual support. There are other cultural temples: Manakamana Temple, ShristikantaLokeshvara Temple, and Karyabinayak Temple.
Bungmati is also the seat of traditional woodcarving and sculpture, and carvers here create beautiful works in century-old techniques. You will go through their narrow alleys, find workshops in which skills were inherited over generations, and streets, where mustard dries in the sun. As far as photographers are concerned, golden hour shows terracotta-roofed houses lit up in the terraced fields and hills in the distance. A 30-minute drive away in Patan, Bungmati is an ideal half-day getaway.
The ideal months to go would be between October and April, when it is clear in the sky and there are festivals in the air. And make sure you do not leave without trying such local dishes as the sweet dumplings called Yomari, which are served during the annual YomariPunhi festival in December.
Kopan Monastery, Kathmandu- A Sanctuary of Tibetan Buddhism
Kopan Monastery is one of Nepal's destinations where a tired traveler can find peace of mind, enlightenment, and a sprinkle of Nepal mysticism. Kopan was established in the 1970s by Lama Zopa Rinpoche and Lama Yeshe, and since then, it has served as a hub of study and meditation of Tibetan Buddhism in the world.
The monastery's serene gardens, prayer halls decorated with multi-colored thangkas, and a huge golden stupa rank it among the most photogenic spiritual places in the valley. The monastery is a representation of the teachings of Shakyamuni Buddha. Visitors may also participate in one to two-day introductions and longer retreats, up to one month, that attract seekers the world over.
One of the main events organized by Kopan is the annual November meditation retreat, in which every participant has a chance of transformation, especially for people who are interested in knowing about Buddhism. The grounds can be visited by sightseers as well. Sightseers can go around the place, spin the prayer wheels, and on clear days, spectacular views of the city of Kathmandu with a backdrop of the Himalayan Mountains are visible.
There is also a small cafe where one can enjoy tasty vegan food and Tibetan butter tea in a stress-free environment. Kopan is just 6 km away from Thamel and can either be conveniently accessed by taxi or a nice, long uphill trek through Boudhanath Stupa. The optimal season is October to March, during which the air and skies are crisp and photogenic, which contribute to meditation as well as photography. It is not just a tourist attraction but a place where you can look into the spiritual side of Nepal.
There are several monastic events in this place, such as: Monlam (The Great Prayer Festival), Losar (Tibetan New Year), Surkor Puja, Rigjung Debate, Lama Tsong Khapa Day, Buddha Jayanti, and Saka Dawa. You can also find tourist attractions, cultural, and historical heritage near Kopan Monastery, places like Boudhanath Stupa, Phulbari Monastery, Kunsang Choling Nunnery, SimaltarSetoGumba, and Pashupatinath.
Practical Information
Opens daily, but highly recommend visiting between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM.
Closed on Tibetan Buddhist Holidays
It is restricted to visits during its teaching and medication courses
Best time to visit Kathmandu
October to November and March to April offer pleasant weather, and are the right times to roam around the beautiful places in Kathmandu.
Cultural Etiquette
In religious places, dress decently, take off your shoes, and ask before clicking a picture of someone or their activities.
Conclusion
Kathmandu is not merely the entrance to the Himalayas, but a living museum, a spiritual centre, and a kaleidoscope of culture. There are so many beautiful places to visit in Kathmandu, so that each traveller can create their own inimitable trip to the bright capital of Nepal.
Therefore, you should prepare your luggage, arrive with your interest and be prepared to explore world heritage sites in Kathmandu, which will make your wanderlust come to life and get insight into how amazing this city is. Plan your trip today.
Book your pilgrimage to Asia and step inside the heart of Nepal’s cultural and historical heritage.
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