Place to Visit
The Kathmandu Valley is indeed a unique type of valley, wearing an exotic setting. Twenty-five centuries back it stood as a titanic lake. It is completely surrounded by a tier of green mountain walls above which to the north tower the mighty snow-capped peaks during the winter. It consists of four major cities carrying great historic, artistic and cultural interest. They include Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Kirtipur. Ironically speaking Kathmandu Valley was an empire consisting of four petty kingdoms till the 17th century A. D. The four kingdoms of Kantipur, Lalitpur, Bhaktapur and Kirtipur have today appeared as independent modern cities. The Valley with an approximate population of a million and a half (i.e. counting the Tibetans and the Indian as well) covers an area of 218 square miles and is situated at an elevation of 4,223 feet above the sea-level as part of the Shangri-La.
Kathmandu (Kantipur) - The Capital Durbar Square
This falls to be the historic seat of the past royalty, particularly belongings to the Malla dynasty. The Durbar Square, which is itself the Royal Palace Complex dedicated to the Malla monarchs, is today classified as a World Heritage Site of Culture. The age-old temples and palaces epitomize the religious and cultural life-style of the people. The interesting things to view include Taleju Temple build by late King Mahendra Malla in 1549 A. D., a gigantic stone figure exposing the fearful manifestation of Destruction, the tall stone pillar on the plinth top on which sits late King Pratap Malla with his two queens on either sides and infant son in the middle, the colossal image of the White Bhairab the lattice of which is removed for a week during the Kumari Yatra festival, the nine-storied Basantapur Palace (literally meaning the spring season palace), the Gigantic Bell and the Great Drums. The main golden-gate is guarded by the Monkey-God called Hanuman. He is the king of the Monkeys and a faithful servant to Lord RAM CHANDRA - the hero of the epic "RAMAYANA". Being guarded by a sole protector, the gate itself has come to be known as Hanuman Gate. With a commercial umbrella suspended above his head and wrapped in a scarlet cloak, he squats on a stone plinth to be respected by hundreds of Nepalese Hindus plus Indian Hindus. (He is actually blind - folded, as he was chaste bachelor and wishes not to come in vision of any female figures.)
Temple of Kumari
The temple and the holy quadrangle width Buddhist Stupa at the centre from the residential quarters of the chaste Virgin Living Goddess called KUMARI. The traditional building has profuesly carved wooden balconies and window screens. The non-Buddhists and non-Hindu visitors may enter the courtyard called the 'Bahal' but may not proceed beyond upstairs. The Kumari acknowledges their greeting from the central window of the balcony particularly saved for her alone and snapshot is strictly prohibited.
Kastha Mandap
Located nearby the temple also known as Maru Satal. It was built in 1596 A. D. by King Laxmi Narasingha Malla. They say the tmber used for its relevent construction was sawed out of a single tree. It is also belived that the capital of Kathmandu derived its new name from this very 'Kastha Mandap.' Today it houses the Hindu God namely 'Gorakh Nath'.
Narayanhity Royal Palace
This is the current Royal Palace where Himalayan Monarch if the Shah dynasty resides. It is built on a site of a much older one and owns a colossal compound. During the reign of late King Mahendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev, the father of the present king, the main gate was facing west. Today the main gate eventually faces south. His Majesty the King Birendra Bikram Shah Dev, coronated in 1975 is fifty-four and her Majesty the Queen Aishwarya Rajya Luxmi Devi Shah Dev is fifty. They have three children- two sons and one daughter. Thus the royal family contains five sovereign members in all. Special permission is to be sought to enter the palace permises on days of privilege.
Pashupati Nath Temple
It is a pagoda style Hindu temple with gilt roofings and richly carved silver doors dedicated to Lord Shiva and is situated at the bank of the holy Bagmati River. One of the most scared temples in the entire hiondu world, Pashupati Nath Temple is the nerve center of pilgrimage on the day of Shivaratri. The minute religious town itself which houses the great temple is known as Devpattan and is situated five kilometers east of the capital city. Only Hindus are permitted to enter the main courtyard of the temple. Alien tourists can view the temple from the eastern side of the Bagmati River
Guheswari Temple
On a forested knoll further behind Pashupati Nath Temple to the eastern direction and also by the side of the bending or winding Bagmati river appears the gracious temple of Guheswari sometime known as Akash Yogini. It is another famous spot of Hindu pilgrimage. It houses the shrine of goddess Parbati who is Lord Shiva's spouse. In this case also, only Hindus are authorised to enter the permises.
Swayambhu Shrine
This is belived to 25 centuries old and stands as one of the worlds oldest Buddhist Chaityas. The great stupa of Swayambhu is the wonder that was Nepal, the glory that was Nepal. It is indeed listed a World Heritage site of culture to prove that it serves as the nerve center of faithful worship for all the devout Buddhists of the universe. Swayambhu embraces the authentic philosophy of Bajrayan in particular and honours Lord Adi Buddha. It is dedicated to the self-originating flame God. The stupa which forms the salient structure is will composed of a solid hemisphere of terra-cotta bricks and soil supporting a cornice of copper and gilt. Painted on the four-sided base of the spire are all-setting eyes of Lord Buddha, keeping an eternal watch on the Valley distinguishing between vice and virtue. It is some two miles west of Kathmandu City proper across the Holy Bishnumati River. Situated on the top of the hillock, it is about 500 feet above the level of the valley. The whole hill is a mosaic of small Chaityas and pagoda temples possessing great dignity plus beauty. There also exist six big Buddhist monasteries in all- five Mahayan (Lamaist) and one Hinyan (Therbadist). On the hind hill is located another important Buddhist shrine; it is called Manjushree. This compassionate Chinese Buddha is the God of Knowledge.
Buddha-Nath Stupa
This is declared to stand as the largest Buddhist shrine of south Asia. The ancient colossal chhorten was built in the 6th century A.D. by KingMan Dev belonging to the Likshabi dynasty. It rests on a series of three terraces and from the bird's eye view it takes the revelent shape of a lotus flower which indeed remains a very holy object for the devout Buddhists of the entire world. The chhorten is surrounded by a cirdular market which forms a part of Tibet Town. In thes case also the four pairs of the Buddha's eyes give a vivid flash to the four cardinal directions, meaning to keep a diligent watch over the jpeople and their commitments all day all night. The chhorten embraces the authentic philosophy of Mahayan the faith of which is knodwn as Lamaism in Sikkim, Laddakh, Bhutan and Tibet. It also proves a World Heritage Site.
Buddhanilkhantha
Situated in the northern suburbs of the Valley just at the foot of Mt. Shivapuri, this is an enchanting Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Bishnu Narayan. So the locality is also known as Narayanthan. He lies in a bed fo serpents amidst the pious pool and seems to flot on water. The surrounding pond actuality represents the sea. The reclining statue was built in the 5th century A.D. The season of religious celebration here takes place right after the festival of Tihar. Although it is a renowned spot of worship, the reigning king of Nepal (may it be contemporary or any Hindu monarch) may not visit this place for reasons particularly unknown. Thus to please the king a replica of it has been elsewhere if he wishes to visit it much.
Balaju Water Garden
This is an interesting large compound sitting at the foot of Mount Nagarjun in the north-east cornor fo the Valley. Its premises include numerous worty items. The important ones are the twenty-two waterspouts, the replica image of Lord Buddhanilakhantha, the olympic size swimming pool, etc. Among all the attractions, the major one stands as the Twenty-two water spouts and the whole compound uphill and downhill itself makes an enchanting picnic-spot for holiday-makers. It is here that the stone statue of lord Bishnu Narayan, an imitation of genuine previous one at Buddhanilkhantha, exists in order for the Nepalese monarch to pay decent homage. The annual festival is celebrated on a full-moon day of the spring season. It is a merry day when many Nepalese Buddhists and Tibetal Buddhists hike up to the summit of Jamacho the starting point being Balaju or Lhuti. A jeepable road leads to the top of Mount Nagarjun. This klprecise full-moon is known as 'Luthi Punhi.'
Dakshin-Kali
Kali is a blood thirsty Hindu Goddess. This particular temple lies in the southermost suburbs of the valley, beyond Furping downward in a solitary ravine. So She is termed 'Dakshin - Kali' meaning South Kali. The important days for religious pilgrimage include Tuesday and Saturdays. A ritual worship attatched by animal sacrifice would not be an uncommonscene here the practice of which is totally against Buddhism in the birthland of Lord Buddha. The poor victims include the fowls,birds and sheep in general. The ancient city is located on the southern bank of the holy Bagmati river and is approximately five kilometers wouth-east of the capital. The whole city is full of Buddhist monuments and Hindutemples with fine bronze gateways, marvelous status, guardian deities and magnificient carvings including stone carving, metal carving and dwood carving. Well noted for its gorgeous craftsmen and metal workers, it is often known as the city of Supurb artists. The majority of the citizens follow the Buddhist faith.
Lalitpur Durbar Square
This is the Royal Palace Complex built during the Malla period and stood as the capital part till the 17th century. Situated in the heart of the city, it constitutes the salient focus of an alien visitor's attraction. The square is built of ancient palaces, temples, shrines and statues noted for their exquisite carvings. We owe all these grandeurs to the sovereign Malla dynasty. The last of the Malla dynasty was late King Tej Narsingha Malla. There include three main courtyards, the being the Keshav Narayan Chowk which we have gotten to enter through the Golden Gate and under the Golden window; the second being the Taleju Bhawani Chowk; and the third being the Sundari Chowk carrying the Royal Bath called Tushahity. The single stone pillar on, which sits late King Yog Narendra Malla facing the Taleju Bhawani Temple to, the cardinal direction of east and the Gigantic Bell to its right are also worth mentioning. The Patan Durbar Square too forms a World Heritage Site.
Krishna Temple
Built in the 16th century by late King Siddhi Narshingha Malla, this temple is made of pure stone. It is a marvelous structure constructed completely out of stone, except for the few pinnacles or the spires adjusted out of metal. The carvings on its friezes depict battle scenes from the ancient Hindu epics of South Asia, the Ramayana and the Maha-Bharata in particular. Opposite remains the single stone pillar with a Garuda sitting on, paying decent homage to Lord Krishna.
Kumbheshwor
This Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva was built during the peaceful reign of late King Jayasthiti Malla. The particular deity it houses is Kumbheshwar Mahadev and the five-storied pagoda temple was constructed in sheer competition with the five-storied pagoda temple of Bhaktapur. Later in 1932 a golden finial was supplemented.
Jagat Narayan Temple
This is a tall imposing Hindu Temple belonging to Lord Vishnu, constructed out of attractive red bricks. It is situated in Sankhamul Ghat, which rests on the bank of the holy Bagmati River. The temple contains numerous fine images in stone and an artistic metal statue of Garuda on a stone pillar in this case also.
Karunamaya Temple
This is a Buddhist pagoda solely dedicated to Lord Avalokiteshwar. Built in 1408, it is located in a large quadrangle called Tah Bahal. Also referred to as Red Karunamaya, the idol remains housed here for 12 fortnights and is highly worshipped by Tibetan, Sikkimese, Laddakhan and Bhutanese Buddhists as well.
The Ashokan Stupas
There exist four ancient Buddhist Stupas popularly believed to have been built in 250 B.C. by Emperor Ashoka. The great Hindu emperor of North India later happened to take refuge in the Buddha and embrace the Dharma. The neat grassy Stupas expose their beauty at each of the Four Corners of Patan. They give evidence to the chaitya's ancient religious importance and proudly support the sound proof of Ashoka's unanimous visit to the Himalayan Kingdom.
The National Zoo
The only public zoo of the Valley lies in the premises of Jawalakhel. A wide colossal compound with boatable pond in the middle, it contains numerous animals, birds and reptiles mostly representing area for zoological study-men and liberal holiday-picnic spot.
The Tibetan Center
This is a busy Tibetan settlement with a Mahayan Buddhists monastery. Running a woolen carpet industry is today a big responsible job of the Tibetan society. 'Jawalakhel Handicraft Center Pvt. Ltd." is a typical pioneer Tibetan carpet manufacturer the factory of which stands the biggest in Lalitpur district. It is an extremely interesting place where one can keenly observe the technical process of spinning, dyeing and weaving of Shangri-La rugs performed by perfect Tibetan hands. This center has a well-stocked show-room plus sales -room from which purchases can be swiftly freighted to any destination of the world. Apart from these, the town is abound of several other public shops carrying Tibetan curios, garments, novelties, jeweleries, etc.
Godzawari
Literally it is a vernacular translation of a special flower. Godawari is a big village setting of exterme natural beauty and is situated 10 kilometers south-east of Patan perched at the foot of Mt. Fulchowki which holds a relevant altitude of 9050 feet above the sea level. It is in fact the highest mountain of Kathmandu Valley, a good spot for hiking. Rhododendrons of various kinds and colors from snow-white to dark-red grow slid on the slopes. It also has rich forestation abound with different varieties of flora and birds. A center of numerous orchid species, it makes an ideal spot for the outdoor party and picnickers. It is indeed a botanical paradise, not to miss the orchards and horticulture yards as well. The British Botanical Garden, the American Fish Farm and the Catholic Mission School from the important sites here. Just above St. Xavier remains the marble quarry discovered a long period back. Apart from these, the two renowned Hindu temples of Godavari-Kunda (also known as Panch-Dhara) and Nau-Dhara and a new Buddhist monastery are worth visiting. Historical Godawari-Kunda celebrates a special twelve-year festival. It is a ritual worship committed with zeal and enthusiasm in the monsoon season.o To Top >>
Bajra-Barahi
This is a famous Hindu temple of Lalitpur district. Situated in the middle of a peaceful woodland park, it is roughly 5 kilometers south of Patan nearby the Newar village of Chapagaon. Ritual worship followed by liberal picnic is a frequent phenomenon every Saturday. A trekking visit to Tika Bhairab and Lete (both lying in the southern suburbs of the Valley) from here is worthwhile.
Bhaktapur (Bhadgaon)
Bhadgaon, also known as Bhaktapur, stood the capital of Nepal Valley once during olden days. And today it is a treasure home of medieval arts and architectures. According to a legend this city was founded in 889 AD by late king Anand Dev who belonged to the famous Likshavi dynasty. The whole city takes the shape of a 'Khat-Kon' jor David's Star. Bhaktapur signifies the "City of Devotees", with the sole majority of Hindus. The urban sector covers an area of 4 square miles. Pottery plus weaving from its traditional industries. They make the best yogurt of the kingdom; so it is known as ' juju dhou' or 'king curd.' Nowadays numerous cottage factories produce masks and wooden handicrafts as will. Bhaktapur is 13 kilometers direct east of Kathmandu and is accessible by public taxi vehicles including the bus, mini-bus, trolley bus, cab and auto-rickshaw.
Durbar Square
The main square of the city which used to be capital part of old Bhadgaon kingdom contains numerous temples and monuments of wonderful nature. The first striking city mark would be the 55 Window Palace built by late King Bhupatindra Malla with which the three remaining kingdoms of Kantipur, Lalitpur and Kirtipur envied a lot. This jealously often lead to some political strife as well. During the Malla era Bhaktapur and Lalitpur particularly appeared as tough competitors. The 55 Window Palace is a unique type of structure, so it is the only kind in all modern Nepal without a single imitation or duplication or replica appearing elsewhere. The first ten windows decently face west, thirty-five face south and the remaining ten faace east. The Golden Gate, the Gigantic Bell, the Stone Pillar of late Bhupatindra Malla and the Chayslin Mandap (Octagonal Pagoda) look gorgeous. The National Art Gallery although closed on Tuesday expose a large and detailed collection of marvelous stone-crafts and scroll-paintings. Entring through the Golden Gate and behind the 55 Window palace, we come across Taleju Bhawani Tempal and the Royal Bath. Very oviously every city has a Taleju Bhawani Temple as She is belived to be the Protectoress of the city by the orthodox Hindus. The Royal bath yet looks glamorous with the image of the Serpent God in the middle of the sanatorioum although the water-spout has completely dried up. Late King Ranjit Mallawas the l;ast of the Malla Dynasty to take a holy bath. The 17th century also saw the downfall of the Malla monarchy. The Durbar Square is indeed a World Heritage Site.
Adjacent to the Durbar Square is a famous market plaza called Toumadhi square. This is a big junction where the chariot festival starts during the religious season. It is here that the striking landmark of the country stands tall and majestic. The Nyata-pola temple facfing the cardinal direction of south is a Hindu pagoda, dedicated to goddess Siddhi Luxmi. Built by late Bhupatindra Malla, it is not only the tallest temple of the city, of the district, of the valley but of the the entire nation. It is about 190 feet above the city's ground level. According to the local language, "Nyata-Pola" signifies five-roofed. You can't miss this from your aircraft window. Constructed out of pure terra-cota bricks and super-fine wood materials, it owns a strong foundation. A dreadful earthquake shook Nepal in 1934. All the surrounding houses and minor shrines collapsed while this remained intact. To the right the Bhairav Temple looks magnificent. It faces the cardinal direction of west and is a center for animal sacrifice.
Datta-Traya Square
Further to the north-east of Toumadhi Square is another interesting locality called Dattatraya Square. In fact this is the second important urban spot of Bhaktapur. The Datta-Traya Temple also built by late Bhupatindra Malla in the 17th century is a famous pagoda carrying an amusing history. This is a wooden temple facing west; it is belived that the timber used for its relevent construction was sawed out of a single tree. So you can imagine how big the tree must have been. The square has been nomenclatured from the name of the Deity itself. The three-storied temple is dedicated to the three-headed Deity of the orthodox Hindus. It symbolizes the divine triad, a mere combination of Brahma (The Creatora0, Vishnu (The Preserver) and Maheshwar (The Destroyer). The square as a whole can be regarded as a marvelous gallery of intricate wood carvings. One can smell environments of medieval period around the square. In thje periphery of the temple, you can also see monastries, Bhimsen temple and a platform. There are a couple of handicraft quarters around where watching the skills of the carvers is a sheer joy. The Pujari-Math Temple has the renowned Peacock Window in the laneside facing the cardinal direction of east. It is a pure wooden structure, a master-piece indeed. Apart from these, there exist two special museum-the Metal Craft Museum and the Wood Craft Museum.
Surya Binayak
This is a hindu Shrine of Lord Ganesh, the elephant-headed God and son Lord Shiva-the Destructor. Binayak in classical Sanskrit would signify Ganesh (Deity of Luck) and this particular one is the sun Binayaks amongst the several Binayaks of the Valley scattered at different corners. Situated in a beautiful surrounding of Bhadgaon and placed in a sylvan setting it meant to catch the first rays of the rising sun. the delightful view of Bhadgaon to the north can be distinctly observed from here.
Changu Narayan (Champak Narayan)
This is the oldest Hindu temple atop a hill village called Changu. Dedicated to lord Champak Narayan, it is declared to have been built by late King Hari Barma in 323 A.D. who also virtually belonged to the Likshavi dynasty. The two-roofed pagoda temple is richly decorated withsculptures and carvings. To the ethnicnewars it is known as 'Sako Changu'. And the most authentic inscription located ion the precinct of champak Narayan is dated 464 A.D., accredited to King Man Dev.