7 Places of Historic Importance in Kathmandu, Nepal

If you are looking to have a combination of various elements in your holiday destination, you could opt for Kathmandu. You could have a great time sightseeing, you could get adventurous with activities like trekking, river rafting and so on. Not to forget shopping and experience the grandeur in the festivals celebrated here. The 2000-year-old Kathmandu, capital of Nepal, is the country’s largest city. Surrounded by mountains, the city has rivers flowing through it and it offers excellent views with forests, deserts and glaciers. The geographical features of the city allow for various thrilling activities and at the same time provide you the peaceful atmosphere to relax. A perfect combination of course and you are sure to have a perfect holiday here. Here are 8 important places in Kathmandu, which you may want to include in your Kathmandu tour.

1. Kathmandu Durbar Square
   kathmandu-durbar-square2Photo by Bas Wallet, CC BY-SA 2.0

Kathmandu Durbar Square, also known as Hanuman Dhoka Palace Square is located in the heart of Kathmandu. Kings were crowned here in the ancient times and they ruled the kingdom from here. It houses various temples of Hindu gods as well as goddess. The city stands proof for the traditional architecture with palaces, courtyards and temples constructed between 12th and 18th centuries. It is declared as a Cultural Heritage Site. Taleju Temple and Hanuman Dhoka are major tourist attractions here.

1. Boudhanath Stupa
   boudhanath-stupaPhoto by Bas Wallet, CC BY-SA 2.0
   Boudhanath Stupa is one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world. It is a perfect location to experience the bliss of nature. You can have a spectacular view of the surrounding mountains from the base of the Stupa. An important specialty of this place is that it is the center of Tibetan Buddhism away from its homeland. One of the revered places for South Asian Buddhists, Boudhanath Stupa is declared as World Heritage Site.

2. Swayambhunath Temple
   swayambhunath-templePhoto by Lyle Vincent, CC BY-ND 2.0
   The temple, famously called the monkey temple, is located at the top of a hill. It acquires the name ‘monkey temple’ owing to the great number of monkeys that guard Swayambhunath Temple. Constructed before 5th century, the temple is declared a World Heritage Site. Regardless of one’s religious faith, the Temple is going to create an instant adoration owing to its architectural splendor. You need to climb 365 stairs to reach the temple. Of course, for those who have difficulty in climbing, facility to reach the place by car is available.

3. Garden Of Dreams
   garden-of-dreamsPhoto by Lyle Vincent, CC BY-ND 2.0
   Garden of Dreams is a park located in Kaiser Mahal palace. Constructed in the 1895, the park has undergone various changes over the years and provides a picture of a perfect art form. The features remind you of European gardens with pavilions and planting areas. It houses galleries, libraries, theatres and birdhouses. The architectural landscape is a feast to your eyes.

4. Pashupatinath Temple
   pashupatinath-templePhoto by Vigyan Shah, CC BY-SA 3.0
   Pashupatinath Temple is one of the important tourist spots in Kathmandu. You get to see the culture and traditions of Hinduism. The place brings in you mixed emotions. On one side, you get to see the ancient culture and hear the chanting of prayers and on the other side, you can find the dead being cremated. A compelling place that makes you ponder about life and death. Up above, in the forest, you will find tranquility and can enjoy oneness with nature.

1. Kopan Monastery
   kopan-monasteryPhoto by Wonderlane, CC BY 2.0.
   Situated on a hill, Kopan Monastery overlooks Kathmandu valley. Here monks are extensively trained on philosophical subjects. It offers great views of Kathmandu valley. With lovely grounds and nice ambience, it is a perfect place for retreat. Even if you are not inclined towards spiritualism, you will love the place for the environment. You feel energized once you are here. You also get great food for a very reasonable rate.

2. Thamel
   thamelPhoto by *saipal, CC BY 2.0
   A very different experience awaits you at Thamel. It is a noisy place and you might wonder how to shop here. Well, you could and have a whale of a time here as you could find a lot on offer. It is an interesting place bubbling with activity. The small streets and the packed shops have more than you could ever imagine. From normal shirts to trekking costumes, you find a lot here. You could buy souvenirs for your family and friends.

Apart from tourist spots at Kathmandu, you can find various places to relax and get rejuvenated. Scenic landscapes, temples that portray architectural excellence and various adventure-filled activities keep you thoroughly engaged on your tour. Take your time to enjoy the best of both worlds.