Nepal's backbone, Kathmandu Valley, flaunts its history and flagrant culture, attracting hundreds of thousands of tourists each year from around the globe. Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Lalitpur make up the Kathmandu Valley. Due to the high diversity in culture, history, ethnicity, and heritage, Kathmandu Valley is one of Nepal's most visited and tourist-favored places. If you are planning to visit Nepal, these are the top 5 sites you must visit in Kathmandu:
1. Kathmandu Durbar Square
Located within a short walking distance from Thamel, Kathmandu Durbar Square a.k.a Basantapur Durbar Square is one of the most significant cultural heritage sites in Kathmandu. It has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1977 AD(2036 BS).
This tour easily becomes a pleasant experience with its lively market, beautiful traditional Newari architecture, historical monuments, and cultural heritage. You can experience Kathmandu Durbar Square's essence more if you explore the palace museum and learn about its history. International tourists are required to pay for their entrance into the Kathmandu Durbar Square area with ticket prices differing for the citizens of SAARC countries and non-SAARC countries.
2. Swayambhunath Stupa
Swayambhunath, commonly known as "The Monkey Temple", is a sacred ancient Buddhist religious site located on the top of a hill in the west of the Kathmandu Valley. To reach on top of the hill you can either trek up from the ring road or ride your vehicle around 100m further elevation or you can take the infamous 365 steps. Swambhunath Chaitanya is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Swayambhunath Stupa carries cultural, historical, and religious importance in local as well as widespread Buddhist communities. As you trek up the hill you will experience a new atmosphere sustained and correlated by its beauty, devotion, architecture, followers, and various fauna. The fluttering of vibrant prayer flags, the aroma of burning incense, and the sounds of the rotating prayer wheels make the Swayambhunath temple a surreal and must-visit place in Kathmandu Valley.
3. Pashupatinath Temple
Pashupatinath temple, One of the major sites to worship for Hindu pilgrimages around the world, is located on the eastern outskirts of the Kathmandu Valley on the Bagmati River. Every Year Pashupatinath temple attracts thousands of elderly followers of Hinduism, searching for shelter in the last few weeks of their lives. Dead followers of Hinduism are cremated too in the bank of the Bagmati River with a belief in attaining heaven after death.
The best time to visit Pashupatinath temple is during the evening time when the aarti takes place. Devotees from all over the world come to experience the aarti firsthand to receive blessing and prosperity from Lord Shiva. Except for the main temple, people from every religion are allowed to enter the vast surroundings of the temple and explore. Only Hindus are allowed to worship in the main temple.
4. Chandragiri Hills
Chandragiri Hills, one of the best hill stations in Nepal located on the southwest side of Kathmandu, is a hospitality brand that offers breathtaking Himalayan views, adventurous activities, cultural significance, luxury, accommodation, diverse cuisine, and a relaxing atmosphere.
Embarking on the journey to Chandragiri Hills offers an array of exciting pathways to choose from. Whether you prefer the scenic route by road, the adventurous trails for a hike, or the exhilarating experience of the cable car ride, each option promises a unique and unforgettable adventure to this breathtaking destination. This makes Chandragiri Hills a must-visit place in Kathmandu Valley for thrill seekers as well as solemn peace-loving individuals.
5. Thamel
The tourist hub of Kathmandu city, Thamel is located at the center. It is a commercial neighborhood in the heart of Kathmandu which is well known for its narrow alleys, hustle and bustle, nightlife, and its 24/7 market.
Thamel has been the center of the tourism industry in Kathmandu for over four decades, starting from the hippie days. Thamel caters to diverse tastes, from bustling markets offering artifacts to trendy boutiques, from local momos to international cuisine, from everyday wear to hiking gear, and as night falls, this place turns lively attracting local and international customers. Thamel has always been a must-visit place in Kathmandu Valley where culture, cuisine, and adventure converge.
As we conclude this guide to the top 5 must-visit places in Kathmandu filled with rich history, cultural wonders, and breathtaking landscapes, we hope this ignites an urge in you to visit these places and experience them first hand. Safe travels and may be journey in Kathmandu is filled with awe and wonders.