Cultural Tour in Kathmandu 1 Days, Easy

Cultural Tour in Kathmandu – overview

Cultural Tour in Kathmandu

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is a well-known spot of cultural heritage in the world. The word “Kathmandu” is said to have been derived from the word “Kasthamandap”, which means a wooden house from a single tree. Mainly in Kathmandu valley, the big cities Kathmandu, Lalitpur, and Bhaktapur are famous for their specialities. Kathmandu Durbar Square is one of the attractions of cultural heritage listed in the World Heritage by UNESCO. People call it “Hanuman Dhoka”. Kathmandu Durbar Square is taken as the old Palace of the kings in ancient Nepal. We can observe a museum where the valuable goods used by kings in Nepal are safely kept. The square is occupied by many Hindu temples. The Durbar Square stands in the heart of Kathmandu.

Aakash Bhairab Temple

This temple is located within Kathmandu Durbar Square, resembling the divine image of the sky Bhairav. It is the three-storied temple standing at Indra Chowk. The Sky Bhairab is displayed outside for a week-long period during the great festival “Indra Jatra”, a celebration of Indra, the king of Heaven & God of Rain.

Hanuman Gate

Hanuman Dhoka of Kathmandu is taken as the historic throne of the past royalty, particularly belonging to the Malla kings. The ages-old temples reflect the religious and cultural richness. Taleju temple, built in 1549, has a gigantic stone figure exposing fearful figure of the Black Bhairab, which Hindus regard as the God of Destruction. The stone pillar, image of white Bhairab, the nine-storey Basantapur palace, the gigantic bell and the great Drums are the main attractions. The main Golden Gate is guarded by the monkeys and a faithful servant of Lord Ram Chandra, the unanimous Hero of the ancient epic “Ramayan”. Being guarded by the sole protector with a commercial umbrella suspended above his head and wrapped in a scarlet cloak, squats on a stone plinth to be respected by hundreds of Nepalese and Indian Hindus.

Kumari Temple

The temple and holy quadrangle with a Buddhist Stupa at the centre from the residential quarters of the chaste virgin living Goddess is called Kumari Ghar (temple of Kumari). The traditional building has wooden balconies and window screens. The non-followers of Hindus and Buddhist may enter the Courtyard but may not proceed beyond upstairs. The KUMARI receives their greetings from the window of the balcony, particularly made for her, and a snapshot is strictly prohibited.

Kasthamandap

This holy house is situated near the temple of Kumari. The unique building of Kasthamandap is also named “Marusatal”. It was built in 1596 A.D by the Malla king, Laxmi Narsingh Malla. Kasthamandap has sheltered totally Hindu Gods, especially Gorakh Nath. It is believed that Kasthamandup is made up of the wood of a single tree. It deserves both the ancient architecture and the art of wood carving of the rulers.

The Taleju Temple

It is the tallest of all structures, built by King Mahendra Malla in 1549 A.D. This temple is open to the public for one day during the Dashain festival yearly.

The Jagannath Temple

It was built in the 16th century and is well-known for the fascinating erotic figures carved on the wooden struts.

The Kal Bhairav

It is one of the largest 17th century store statues in Kathmandu, representing the terrifying aspect of Lord Shiva.

Swet Bhairav

During the Indra Jatra festival, this temple is open to the public once a year.

Nautalle Durbars (Nine-storyed palace)

Kathmandu, derived from the word “Kasthamandap”, is the capital and the largest city of Nepal, resembling cultural, political and architectural richness. Once, it was known as “Kantipur”. The valley is surrounded by green mountains, and in winter white Himalayas are displayed to the north. It is rumoured that it was a big lake and Manjushree cut the mountain with his mighty sword, and all the water flowed out from the place called “Chobhar”, and this valley originated. This valley is the main residential area of the Newar community with their unique mother tongue, costumes, handicrafts, festivals and worshipping God and Goddess.

Swayambhu Nath Stupa

The Swayambhunath Stupa is one of the oldest and greatest Buddhist stupas in the world and a glorious site of Nepal. It is 3 km west of Kathmandu and 77m above on the hill from the level of Kathmandu valley. Swayamnhu Nath Stupa is called “Monkey Temple” by most of the tourists. It is said to be 2000 years old by Manjushree. Painted on the four sides of the base of the spire are the all-seeing eyes of Lord Buddha keeping an eternal watch on the valley, distinguishing between vice and virtue. It is listed by UNESCO in world Heritage List. The main structure of brick and clay, which supports a lofty conical spire capped by a pinnacle of copper gilt, Swayambhunath is a mosaic of small stupas, gompas and pagoda temples. In front of the temple, one of the famous goddesses with the shrine of Ajima, called “Harati Mata”, is there. The temple of the goddess is believed to be famous in the trantic warp. The stupa of Buddha and the temple of the goddess are surrounded by temples and Tibetan monasteries.

Ason

Ason is the busiest marketplace for all kinds of important things such as vegetables, kitchenware, clothes, handicrafts, Chinese goods, seeds of crops, etc. Asan has six roads following different directions. The three stroyed pagoda style Annapurna temple plays a pivotal role in most festivals held and is dedicated to the Goddess of Grains.

Thamel

Thamel, which lies in the heart of Kathmandu, is also called “small Europe”. Actually, this place gives the visitors a glimpse of Western cultures in all sectors. It is a unique and different place in Kathmandu and the best tourist area in Nepal. The goods such as Pasmina clothes, wooden carved idols, handicrafts, ornaments, musical instruments, varieties of dishes of different countries, highly facilitated hotels, restaurants and bars, book shops, cyber cafes and travel agencies have made this area a tourist centre. The activities such as fooding, visiting, and marketing (shopping) run here till late at night.

Dharahara (Bhimsen Tower)

The Dharahara tower is 50.5m tall and was built by the then Prime Minister Bhimsen Thapa in 1832. Once it was closed to the public, but it has been recently opened again, and anyone can go up after paying the entrance fee. Visitors can have some food within its premises and take good snapshots that can be developed immediately. The 3600 astounding view of the Kathmandu valley is well worth the long climb up the spiralling staircase.

Dream Garden

The garden of Dreams was built by the then Prime Minister Bir Shumsher JBR in 1895 and was inherited by his son Keshar Shumsher JBR as a wedding gift. A learned man made the garden a spot of art. It included a fabulous lawn. It is a wooded area which is enriched with birds, flowers and ducks in the pond. Within the Garden, wall, Keshar Shumsher created an exquisite ensemble of pavilions, fountains, decorative garden furniture and European features of verandas, pergolas, balustrades, urns and bird houses. He erected six freestanding pavilions, each dedicated to one of the six seasons of Nepal, namely Basanta (spring), Grishma (summer), Barsha (monsoon), Sharad (early autumn), Hemanta (late autumn) and Sishir (winter). Later, Keshar’s family bequeathed some portion of the Keshar Mahal, including his garden and Keshar Library, to the government. Now it is opened for the public with restaurants and bars to raise funds for its upkeep.

Pashupatinath Temple

Pashupatinath Temple is one of the holiest and most powerful temples of Hindus in the world, situated 5km east of Kathmandu. This is the temple of Lord Shiva, known as the creator and destroyer in the Hindu religion and appears in many forms. Pashupatinath temple lies between Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) and Bauddha, standing on the bank of a holy river, the Bagmati, with two storyed golden roof and silver doors and superb architecture. The pilgrims throughout the world converge in this temple on the day of Shivaratri (the birthday of God Shiva). Although only Hindus are allowed inside the temple, visitors can clearly see the temples and activities. Pashupatinath is also listed in world Heritage list by UNESCO in 1979. From time to time, the Pashupatinath area has contained numerous temples, stupas, monasteries, images and inscriptions. Every day, numerous dead bodies of Hindu followers are cremated on the bank of the holy Bagmati River. It has been under the immemorial supervision of Pashupati Development Area (PDA).

Bouddhanath Stupa

Bouddhanath stupa is the largest shrine of Buddhists, located 8 km east of Kathmandu in the midst of Tibetan Buddhists. The stupa stands on the massive three-level Mandala-style platform surrounded by colourful private houses. The stupa is bigger than the Swayambhunath stupa and is said to have been built in the 5th century A.D. Bouddhanath Stupa is one of the biggest Buddhist Monasteries in the world and is listed in world Heritage List by UNESCO in 1979. The stupa is the centre of learning, cultural activities, prayers and meditation. You should always circle around the stupa in a clockwise direction. While entering the surrounding gompas, you must take off your shoes and take permission before taking photos and must not step over monks’ cushions. The major gompas around the Bouddhanath stupa are Kargyupa, Sakyapa, Nyingmapa and Gelugpa Gompas.

Budhanilkantha

The shrine of the sleeping Vishnu, also known as “The Reclining Vishnu”, is located 8 km north of Kathmandu, known as Budhanilakantha. Budhanilkantha is situated below Shivapuri hill, possibly the largest image of lord Vishnu. The five-yard-long, colossal image of lord Vishnu reclining on a bed of snakes. Budhanilkantha is the pilgrimage for all Hindus and the scene of great activity at such festivals as Haribodhani Ekadashi and Kartik Poornima. The statue of Vishnu is carved on a single black stone in the pond. It is rumoured that it was found by a couple while ploughing in ancient times, and they started to worship it. It is said that the reigning Kings of Nepal may not visit this spot, for they would be harmed according to old tradition. It is one of the exciting sight seeing spot.

Kirtipur town
Kirtipur is known as “the city of glory”, which is located 8 km southwest of Kathmandu. Nepal’s central University, “Tribhuvan University”, stands at the foot of the hill. This town was founded by Shiva Dev between 1099 and 1126 B.C. Historically, it is famous for its resistance against the invasion of the Gorkhas. The king of Gorkha, Prithivi Narayan Shah, attacked at the right time to conquer this city. There are many small and large temples and stupas scattered around the city. The Baghavahari Temple and the Chilamchu stupa are major religious sites. Most of the inhabitants are farmers here. Besides, spinning and weaving prevail here. The houses are still carrying vivid carved windows.

Chobhar
Chobhar is situated 9 km southwest of Kathmandu. Legends say that there was a very big lake in Kathmandu valley, and the god Manjushree cut off the hill with his sword to drain the water, and when all the water drained out, then settlements originated in the valley. At present, it is famous for its deep gorge. The Adinath Temple at the top of the hill is picturesque, from where complete views of snowcapped mountains can be taken. The most remarkable things about the temple are numerous water vessels, pots and pans nailed to boards all along the building. A massive stone Shikkara is believed to be the entrance to a stone cave that cuts through the hill, emerging at the Chobhar Cave.

Dakshinkali Temple
The temple of Dakshinkali is 22 km south of Kathmandu, passing through Pharping village. The temple was built by Pratap Malla in the 17 th century. The temple is one of the famous Hindu pilgrimages dedicated to Goddess Kali or “Southern Kali”. Several devotees arrive here on Tuesday and Saturday every week to sacrifice animals in offering goddess Kali. According to mythology, Goddess Durga had killed a demon and drank blood. It is believed that she gives energy and willpower to her devotees. The six-armed goddess, trampling a male human, stands in the company of Ganesh, seven Ashta Matrikas and a stone image of Bhairav. In the inner sanctum, there is a black stone idol of Kali. Besides religious popularity, this spot has become a famous picnic spot. Every year, half a million pilgrims visit here.

Nagarkot
Many spectacular mountains in Nepal offer unimaginable features to onlookers. Among them, around the Kathmandu valley, Nagarkot is known as the best tourist resort. Nagarkot lies 32 km east of Kathmandu at an altitude of 2175m best tourist spot. Most of the never miss visiting Nagarkot for heart-touching views of sunrise and sunset. Spending a night here is superb. Tourists can get facilities for lodging and food as their wishes because of the excellent lodges and hotels you can reach by car, van or bus with an easy drive through Bhaktapur. You can have the panoramic views of the eastern giant Himalayas such as Mt. Everest (8,848m), Ganesh Himal (7,111m), Langtang (7,246m), Gaurishankar (7134m) and Mt. Manasalu (8,156m) clearly on the clear weathered days.

Kakani
Kakani is one of the most beautiful destinations for tourists. It is located at an altitude of 2,037m and 29 km northwest of Kathmandu. It is famous for the fabulous and magnificent views of panoramic snow giants. From the hilltop, excellent views of Ganesh Himal, Himalchuli (7893m), Manasalu (8163m), Annapurna (8094m ), Gaurishanker (7134), Choba Bamte (6,016m), Dorje Lakpa, and so on. Kakani is one of the famous picnic spots for people in Kathmandu, located beside the road heading to Trishuli. During spring, wild flowers cover the hillside. The trekking begins at Balaju (Kathmandu) and terminates at Kaule, from where the road bifurcates.

Dhulikhel
Dhulikhel is an ancient town located 32 km away. east of Kathmandu along the Araniko Highway (Kathmandu-Kodari), the way to Tibet and famous for its scenic beauty and tradition-lovely place. It is 3 km away from Banepa. Dhulikhel in small town inhabited by the Newar community, but one of the best vantage points to view the great range of mountains like Annapurna Range, Langtang, Gaurishanker, Choba Bhamte, etc. There are resorts and tourist /visitors can stay overnight.

Namo Buddha
The name Buddha, which means “Hail the Buddha”, is situated at an altitude of 1,700m above Panauti, 30 km east of Kathmandu. It is one of the famous holy places for Buddhist and Hindus pilgrims. It needs to drive, hike, or walk to be there. There is an amazing story concerning Buddha being commemorated by an ancient stone slab and a stupa with the all-seeing eyes of Lord Buddha. It is an ideal place for meditation.

The trek to Namobuddha starts from Tudhikhel (1,600m), from where a rough trail climbs steeply to Kavre, a village inhabited by Brahmins, Chhetris, Tamangs and Newars. In clear weather, you can have good, magnificent views of snowy massifs to the north and peaks such as Gang Chenpo (6,390m), Dorje Lakpa (6,990m), Pharb Chyachu (6,658m) and Gaurishanker (7,145m). After two hour uphill walk, the ancient pilgrimage site of the Nam Buddha is reached. There is a small village around the stupa, and the top of the hill is adorned with prayer flags, chortens, and monasteries.