Top Things to Do in Kathmandu" Known As the City of Temples, Kathmandu Is a Sacred Pilgrimage Site
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"Top Things To Do in Kathmandu" Known as the city of temples, Kathmandu is a sacred pilgrimage site. However, the surrounding mountains and parks also attract those who are looking for something adventurous. The city also has bustling markets catering to every shopper's needs. Created by: Cityseeker 10 Locations Bookmarked Pashupatinath Temple "Embodying Hinduism" Perched along the banks of the holy Bagmati River, this iconic temple is one of the most significant religious sites in Asia. Eternally dedicated to the titular incarnation of Lord Shiva and Nepal's national deity, this temple's origins are mired in legend and lore. Essentially a complex of temples, Pashupatinath Temple boasts gilded roofs, religious carvings, by Q-lieb-in and splendid statues of Hindu gods and goddesses. Dotted with a multitude of Shivalingas and shrines, this complex comes alive when caught in the whirlwind of festivities celebrating Maha Shivratri each year, when priests as well as devout Hindus surrender themselves to the divine glory of Lord Shiva. Duly designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this deeply-revered and highly-visited temple complex is one of the most emblematic monuments of the Kathmandu Valley. + 977 1 447 0340 pashupatinathtemple.org/ Pashupati Nath Road, Kathmandu Boudhanath Stupa "Nepal's Holy Buddhist Stupa" Nepal's most sacred Buddhist stupa sits on an ancient trade route that interlinks Tibet with Nepal via the village of Sankhu. For several centuries since its construction in the 14th Century, this storied shrine has stood as an everlasting symbol of Buddhist faith and peace, inviting devotees from near and far. Known to be one of the holiest Buddhist stupas outside of by Nabin K. Sapkota Tibet, the exalted Boudhanath Stupa asserts its presence in Kathmandu's busy square with its imposing dome, a whitewashed behemoth that rests on giant steps resembling a mandala. With its distinctly spiritual mandala design, the stupa is emblematic of the all encompassing cosmos. Atop its perfectly rounded dome, a tapering spire replete with 13 tiny steps that meet at the apex denotes the stages that lead you to achieve nirvana. Four sets of eyes are etched on the neck that joins the spire and the dome, depicting the all-seeing nature of the noble Buddha. In its entire form, the architecture of the stupa is said to represent each of the five elements of the universe – earth, water, fire, air and ether. With its inherently spiritual essence and remarkable architecture, the Boudhanath Stupa makes for a significant religious landmark. + 977 986 331 9626 Boudhanath Sadak, Kathmandu by Bernard Gagnon Kathmandu Durbar Square "Historic Town Square" One of the cornerstones of the once mighty Kathmandu Kingdom, this iconic town square sits right in front of the former royal palace, displaying a spectacular array of intricate Nepalese craftsmanship and Newar-style architecture. Although the square's history dates back to the Licchavi Period, it is believed to really have grown in stature under the rule of King Pratap Malla. Prior to its destruction due to a major earthquake in 2015, the square housed several historically-significant structures within its premises, most notably the three-tiered Kasthamandap temple. The Kathmandu Durbar Square along with some of its most-notable inhabitants are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Ganga Path, Kathmandu Swayambhunath Stupa "Naturally Formed Shrine" Upheld by a prolific heritage and a profound belief in divine forces beyond human perception, the Swayambhunath Stupa overlooks the peaceful Kathmandu Valley from its lofty perch. Built on the site of an erstwhile lake that arose by itself and formed a small mound, the stupa bears the name of this hillock on which it stands. The stupa's rounded white dome, by Bijay Chaurasia painted a dull yellow in places, underpins a beautifully ornate gilded spire etched with wise eyes of the Buddha that benignly watch over the surrounding valley. From spire's topmost tip, a riot of colored flags make their way to smaller temples in the complex, gently flitting in unison to symbolize spiritual harmony. Dotting the complex's empty spaces are mobs of playful monkeys that amble up the valley, and are considered holy by Tibetan Buddhists and Hindus. According to legend, the monkeys evolved from the Bodhisattva of wisdom, while he attempted to lift the temple hill from the depths of the valley. Reaching the temple requires quite some effort, with as many as 365 steps leading the way to this sacred symbol of divinity. + 977 1425 6909 (Tourist Information) www.welcomenepal.com/places-to- Swayambhu Parikrama, Kathmandu see/Swayambhunath%20.html Hanuman Dhoka "Elaborate Temple Complex" High in the snow-capped Himalayas, Hanuman Dhoka stands as a representation of Nepal's royal heritage, making up a section of UNESCO- recognized Durbar Square. This breathtaking ensemble in Kathmandu is comprised of a series of palaces and temples, each with its own architectural tenor. Among the many buildings here, Malla Palace stands by Mahalaxmi silwal out for its serene all-white exterior. The entryway is guarded by a revered figure of Hanuman, the Hindu god. Draped in bright red fabric, the statue is protected from the elements by an ornate umbrella fashioned in traditional style. This figure is what gives the complex its name, which translates as 'Hanuman Gate.' An etched inscription entreats Lord Hanuman to protect King Bhupatindra Malla, one of royal lineage, in fifteen languages for all to read, while a figure of Narasimha flanks the other side of the entrance. An excellent example of the architecture of the time, the ensemble features elements like the pagoda, a common element showcased in nearly all of the buildings. There are also museums on site which preserve historical artifacts that belonged to the royal families that lived in the palace. Though a significant part of this historic monument was damaged due to an earthquake in 2015, it continues to evoke a sense of a bygone era. Hanuman Dhoka Sadak, Kathmandu Thamel "Experience Kathmandu Firsthand" Kathmandu is known as the city of temples, but there is a lot more to explore culturally. One such premiere area to experience the local flavor of life is Thamel and its surrounding markets. From shopping for souvenirs and electronics to enjoying delectable local cuisine, Thamel has got you covered. Although crowded, it is a culturally enriching experience. by Francisco Anzola Thamel, Kathmandu Garden of Dreams "Blissful Imperial Garden" One of Nepal's most iconic gardens, the Garden of Dreams or the Garden of Six Seasons ornament Kathmandu's Kaiser Mahal with its fine acreage of blissful meadows and neoclassical splendor. Spread across the Kaiser Mahal's backyard, the elegant gardens span nearly 28,656 square meters (74,220 square feet). Its velveteen expanse is flecked with an array of by Aasish5050 breathtaking elements, from inscribed Persian verses that adorn the garden's gate, to delicately adorned trellis and pavilions, clandestine corners, fountains and spacious amphitheaters. Especially notable are the six pavilions in the garden - of which only three remain today - built to symbolize the vibrancy of Nepal's six seasons. The gardens were made at the behest of Kaiser Shamsher Rana in 1920, and were designed by renowned Nepalese architect Kishore Narsingh, who built it to his influential client's specifications. After Kaiser Samsher's demise, the gardens underwent a period of grave neglect, and were salvaged from decay with help from the Austrian Government and the Nepal Ministry of Education. + 977 1 442 5340 www.gardenofdreams.org. [email protected]. Tridevi Marg, Kaiser Mahal, np/ np Kathmandu Narayanhiti Palace "Elegant Nepalese Palace" Alternatively called the Narayanhiti Durbar, this elegant palace that once acted as the royal palace for Nepalese monarchs has opened doors to the public since 2009. Now converted into a museum, the then stately royal family home stands proudly in the very heart of Nepal's capital, Kathmandu and flanks the majestic Kaiser Mahal from its east. Built from by Suraj Belbase fine-quality mortar and brick, the structure was designed by renowned American artist Benjamin Kaufmann Polk and is a stunning example of modern Nepalese architecture. The palace's entire complex covers nearly 94 acres of prime land (38 hectares), with its elaborate courtyard being one of its highlights. The throne room, the reception hall and the Dhanusha Baithak are some of the palace's most historically-significant event venues. The revered Narayan Mandir can be found within the palace estate itself. + 977 1 422 7844 Narayanhiti Path, Kathmandu Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park "Hiker's Paradise" Spread across a total area of 159 square kilometers (61 square miles), Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park situated in the Kathmandu Valley was opened to the public in the year 2002. Wilderness and greenery encompass the many trails here which are best explored on foot if you wish to spend time in nature's lap. Boasting rich, diverse flora and fauna, by Peterkarki042 Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park is among the best national parks in the country. + 977 1 437 0355 www.snnp.gov.np/ Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, Kathmandu Asan Market "Historical Newar Style Baazar" Asan market is a historical thoroughfare that reflects Newar style of city planning. This bustling market and residential area is where you can experience every day life in Kathmandu first hand. From selling food products, textiles, souvenirs and a lot more, you will be spoiled for choice at this bustling marketplace. by jafsegal (Thanks for the 4,5 million views) + 977 1 421 8801 Chittadhar Marg, Kathmandu JOIN US AT: cityseeker.com TERMS & CONDITIONS | PRIVACY POLICY | API | CONTACT US | Copyright (C) 2020 CITYSEEKER Powered by TCPDF (www.tcpdf.org).