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Places To Visit In Kathmandu

15 Famous Places To Visit In Kathmandu | Nature, Culture, And Serenity

Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is a vibrant and culturally rich metropolis nestled in the Kathmandu Valley. Surrounded by the majestic Himalayan mountains, it is a blend of ancient traditions and modern development. The city is renowned for its historic temples, including the iconic Swayambhunath Stupa and Boudhanath Stupa, which are important pilgrimage sites for Buddhists and Hindus alike. Its bustling streets are filled with a tapestry of sights, sounds, and aromas, offering a glimpse into Nepal's diverse culture and cuisine. You will come across the best historical sites in Kathmandu where you will be amazed by the beauty and grandeur. 

Embark on a journey with us, pack your bags and take on this amazing trip to Kathmandu where you will enjoy the best of both worlds. Here, we have the list of the best places to visit in Kathmandu, so pack your bags and usher to what's best!

List Of 15 Best Places To Visit In Kathmandu

  • Kathmandu Durbar Square | History Revived
  • Swayambhunath Temple | The Monkey Temple
  • Pashupatinath Temple | Sacred Hindu Temple
  • Thamel | The Nightlife Zone
  • Boudhanath Temple| The Buddhist Stupa
  • Patan Durbar Temple | UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Bhaktapur Durbar Square | Historical Site
  • Garden of Dreams | Magical Oasis
  • Chandragiri Hills | Beauty of Nature
  • Namo Buddha | Sacred Buddhist Site
  • Ranipokhari | The Historic Pond
  • Asan Tole | Shopping Spree
  • National Museum of Nepal | Unlock the Buddhist Secrets
  • Pullahari Monastery | The Buddhist Bliss
  • Annapurna Base Camp Trek | Go Uphill

1. Kathmandu Durbar Square | History Revived

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a complex of palaces, courtyards, temples, and statues that serve as a testament to Nepal's rich history and architectural heritage. Kathmandu Durbar Square, also known as Hanuman Dhoka Durbar Square, is a historic and cultural treasure in the heart of Kathmandu, Nepal. The square was once the royal palace of the Malla kings and later the Shah dynasty, making it an epicentre of political and cultural life for centuries. It features stunning architecture, including the Hanuman Dhoka Durbar, Taleju Temple, and Kumari Ghar, the residence of the living goddess Kumari.

  • Major Attractions- Nautalle Durbar, Freak Street, Nasal Chowk, Kaal Bhairav, Jagannath Temple
  • Best Time to Visit- September to December and March to May
  • Things to Do- Visit historical temples, and sacred places for Hindus, Seek blessings of deities, and enjoy the beauty of nature.

2. Swayambhunath Temple | The Monkey Temple

One of the most amazing and vibrant places in Kathmandu that withholds the beauty of Swayambhunath. It is the place of worship of both the Hindus and Buddhists in spirit and practice. A Lotus miraculously bloomed at this place and therefore the place was called the Swaymabhu or ‘Self-Existent’.

  • Major Attractions- The Wooden crown, stone inscription, prayer wheels, Monkey temple
  • Best Time to Visit- March to May and September to November
  • Things to Do- Shop Handicrafts, rejuvenate in the nearby spas, and visit the Shobabbagwati temple nearby.

3. Pashupatinath Temple | Sacred Hindu Temple

One of the top temples to visit in Nepal, Pashupatinath Temple is the temple of Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva sits in the temple with his legs folded and four animals sit around his feet. It is one of the best places to vibe among the lakhs of deities. This temple is only open to Hindus and people of no other religion are allowed inside the temple premises. The temple is believed to have existed since 400 AD.

  • Major Attractions- Pashupatinath Aarti, the serene Bagmati river, shopping in the nearby market
  • Best Time to Visit- October to December
  • Things to Do- Visit the Himalayan Rudraksha Bhandar, shop in the local market, and enjoy Nepali cuisine in the nearby restaurants.

4. Thamel | The Nightlife Zone

If you want to experience the best of the nightlife in Kathmandu, you are absolutely in the right place. You cannot miss the scintillating nightlife in Thamel; the buzzing street and the amazing street lights will elevate your mood. You get the best things in Thamel with the Thamel shopping guide on your side.

  • Major Attractions- Expensive Liquor shops, Shopping, Hard drinks and local beer.
  • Best Time to Visit- Between November and Mid-March
  • Things to Do- Go on a Shopping spree, enjoy the street food, and cosy restaurants, and cherish exquisite food

5. Boudhanath Temple| The Buddhist Stupa

The temple was built in around 600 AD. If you want to be closer to Buddhism and Buddhist culture, this is your place. The perfect proportion of the Buddha idol is a major attraction of this temple. Boudhanath Temple symbolises the penance of a king who unintentionally killed his father. It is one of the famous meditation retreats near Kathmandu.

  • Major Attractions- Buddha idol, Tibetan pilgrimage, Tibetan Cultural Centre, 108 Dhyani Buddha Amitabha
  • Best Time to Visit- March to May and September to October
  • Things to Do- Offer Prayers to Buddha, Stroll in the temple premises, meditate and perform prostrations, and seek blessings of Hariti (Ajima).

6. Patan Durbar Temple | UNESCO World Heritage Site

Nestled in the heart of Kathmandu, the Patan Durbar Temple stands as a magnificent testament to Nepal's rich heritage. With its intricately carved wooden pillars, ornate windows, and traditional Newari architecture, this sacred site is a mesmerizing blend of history and spirituality. As you step into its serene courtyard, you'll feel the aura of centuries past, where kings and devotees once gathered. Patan Durbar Temple is a living piece of Nepal's cultural tapestry, a place where time stands still amidst the bustling Kathmandu cityscape.

  • Major Attractions- Kumari Ghar, Kasthamandap, shiva-Parvati Temple, Kal Bhairav Temple
  • Best Time to Visit- March to May and October to November
  • Things to Do- Visit the nearby museum, enjoy local cuisine, enjoy the festivals, take photos

7. Bhaktapur Durbar Square | Historical Site

One of the cities in the Kathmandu Valley is the Bhaktapur Durbar Square. It is a UNESCO Heritage Site which attracts many visitors every year. It features well-preserved mediaeval architecture, temples, palaces, and intricate wood carvings, offering a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Bhaktapur. It is also one of the prominent sites for cultural festivals in Kathmandu, where you can leverage yourself with the culture of Nepal.

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