Kathmandu Durbar Square is one of the most popular tourist destinations as enlisted in World Heritage Sites. Clustered around the central Durbar Square are the old Royal Palace (Hanuman Dhoka), numerous interesting temples, the Kumari Chowk or Kumari Bahal (House of the Living Goddess) and the Kasthamandap (House of Wood) from which Kathmandu derived its present name. An exquisitive exploration in the Durbar Square reveals the ancient art and architecture of Nepal.
Situated 5 kilometers east of Kathmandu City, Pashupatinath temple is one of the holiest temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated amidst a lush green natural setting on the bank of the sacred Bagmati river, the temple built in pagoda style has jilted roof and richly carved silver doors. Visitors are permitted to view the temple from the east bank of Bagmati River, as entrance to the temple is strictly forbidden to non Hindu. Pashupatinath is the center of annual pilgrimage on the day of Shivaratri which falls in the month of February/March.
This Stupa, situated 8 kilometers east of Kathmandu city, is one of the biggest stupa in the world. It stands with four pairs of eyes in the four cardinal direction keeping watch for righteous behavior and human prosperity. This Buddhist Stupa was built by King Man Deva at the advice of the Goddess Mani Joiner. It is built on an octagonal base inset with prayer wheels. The shrine is encircled by houses of Lamas or Buddhist priest.
Swayambhunath is located approximately 4 kilometers and this Buddhist Stupa is said to be 2000 years old. The Stupa which forms the main structure is composed of a solid hemisphere of brick and earth supporting a lofty conical spire capped by a pinnacle of copper gilt. Painted on the four sided base of the spire are the all seeing eyes of Lord Buddha. This hill is a mosaic of small Chaityas and Pagoda temples.
Patan Durbar Square, like its counterpart in Kathmandu, is an enchanting mélange of palace buildings, artistic courtyards and graceful pagoda temples. Listed as a World Heritage Site, the former royal palace complex is the center of Patan’s religious and social life, and houses a museum containing an array of bronze statues and religious objects. One remarkable monument here is a 17th century temple dedicated to the Hindu god Krishna, built entirely of stone.
Besides the above mentioned places to visit, there are other significant sites to be explored:
Arrive at Kathmandu airport and transfer to hotel. Stay overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.
The places of visit include Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath, Boudhanath and Swayambhunath. Stay overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.
(1,401m) covers an area of four square miles. Bhaktapur which means the city of devotees still retains a medieval charm and visitors to this ancient town are treated to myriad wonders of cultural and artistic achievements. The past glory of the Malla rule continues to be reflected at Durbar Square. Pottery and weaving are the traditional industries. Bhaktapur is famous for woodcarving and the traditional topi or cap. The city lies about 14 km east of Kathmandu. The places of interest include Bhaktapur Durbar Square, the National Art Gallery, Nyatapola Temple, Bhairavnath Temple, Dattatreya Temple and Dattatreya Square.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square The main square of the city contains innumerable temples and other architectural wonders such as lion gate, the golden gate, the statue of King Bhupatindra Malla, Dattatraya Temple etc.
A magnificent statue of King Bhupatindra Malla in the act of worship is placed on a column facing the palace. It was listed in the UNESCO world Heritage Monument List in 1979.
Palace of 55 Windows Being built by King Yaksha Malla in 1427 A.D. and remodeled by King Bhupatindra Malla in the 17th century, the intricately carved balcony and windows are a masterpiece of wood carving.
Nyatapola Temple This five storied Pagoda Style temple was built by King Bhupatindra Malla in 1708 A.D. is well known for its massive structure and subtle workmanship. It is the tallest pagoda structure in Kathmandu.
Stay overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.
The drive from Kathmandu to Sankhu takes approximately one hour and the trek from Sankhu to Nagarkot takes about three and half hours. Stay overnight at hotel in Nagarkot.
The trek from Nagarkot to Changunarayan takes approximately three and half hours, and the drive from Changunarayan to Kathmandu takes about one and half hours.
The most popular walk leads down from Nagarkot along a ridge to the temple of Changunarayan-with views of Sankhu village to the right and Bhaktapur to the left. Changunarayan is situated at the end of a long ridge which runs well into the valley. It is said to have been built in 323 AD by King Hari Datta Varma. The temple is richly decorated with sculptures and carvings. It is said to be the oldest temple in the valley. After excursion in and around Changunarayan, you board the vehicle to get back to Kathmandu. Stay overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.
Transfer to the airport for final departure.
Note: There are different categories of Hotels in Kathmandu ranging from budget to 5 star hotels. We are happy to arrange your hotel accommodation in Kathmandu as per your interest and budget. Please inform us in advance about the type or category or price range of hotel that you would like to stay in.
Don Adams
Ildiko and Tamas
NAMASTE !
We had only 6 days in Nepal, but thanks for your office – it was wonderful and exciting. Bhaktapur, Patan and Kathmandu were beautiful. Nagarkot was fantastic to see the Himalaya and the sunrise ! We would like to come back AGAIN – I hope your office will make a trekking, tour for us and for our friend.
Thanks !!!
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