Kathmandu is the getaway to all Himalayan parts of Nepal, and it would be unjustified not to explore this culturally rich city. However, it is not just the Kathmandu city, it can incorporate the entire valley (Kathmandu, Lalitpur, Bhaktapur) by your choice. Some of the most visited locations within the valley include:
- Pashupatinath Temple
Situated on the banks of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu, the Pashupatinath Temple, a two-story pagoda-style temple, holds deep reverence for Hindus. Embark on your religious journey with an early morning visit to this abode of Lord Shiva, featuring his five-faced statues. Adjacent to the temple, there are cremation ghats where final rituals and cremations take place. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is particularly significant during the Shivaratri festival (February) and Teej festival (August). It's worth noting that access to non-Hindu devotees is restricted inside the temple premises. Nevertheless, an exploration of the expansive Pashupatinath area, including the smaller temples and the cremation ghat, is still possible.
- Baudhanath Stupa
Within Kathmandu city, the Baudhanath Stupa stands as a prominent center of spiritual importance for Buddhists and boasts the distinction of being the 'largest stupa in South Asia.' Beyond its religious significance, the stupa is celebrated for its architecture, characterized by three mandala-style platforms, a white dome, and a square tier crowned by prayer wheels, each with its unique symbolism. The customary practice involves walking clockwise around the stupa, spinning the prayer wheels to invite blessings upon one's soul and body. Visiting during Losar (February) and Buddha Jayanti (May) offers the opportunity to partake in vibrant celebrations, special ceremonies, and rituals.
- Swayambhunath Stupa
Commonly referred to as the Monkey Temple due to the bustling monkey population, Swayambhunath is a revered site for both Hindus and Buddhists. A note of caution: it's advisable not to carry food in hand due to the monkeys. This holy destination sees devotees ascend its lengthy staircase to offer prayers, light butter lamps, and engage with prayer wheels. Swayambhunath's significance is deeply woven into Nepal's historical and spiritual legacy and is prominently depicted in various forms of Nepalese art. Encircled by monasteries and meditation centers, it beckons spiritual travelers. The stupa's origin holds varying beliefs—some attribute its self-emergence, while others associate its construction with the Lichhivi Dynasty. Alongside its cultural and spiritual vibrancy, the stupa rewards visitors with a panoramic view of the entire Kathmandu Valley from its summit.
- Patan Durbar Square
A square adorned with palaces, courts, temples, and intricate carvings, Patan Durbar Square is an exemplar of Newar architectural style. Notable landmarks include the Patan Museum and the Krishna Mandir, each holding specific cultural significance. Amid its courtyards, the reconstructed Keshav Narayan Chowk houses a museum showcasing bronze artifacts. Once a royal palace for the Malla dynasty, Patan Durbar Square also boasts the expertise of the valley's finest craftsmen who have preserved ancient techniques like repoussé and the lost wax process to craft exquisite sculptures. The Krishna Temple, an all-stone construction, stands as Nepal's first specimen of Shikhara-style architecture.
If the trek briefing was not done on your first day in Nepal, it is indeed necessary to complete that at the end of this day.
