Brief historical information of the ancient sites you will visit:
Pashupatinath Temple
Situated 5 kilometers east of Kathmandu City, Pashupatinath temple is one of the holiest temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated amidst a lush green natural setting on the bank of the sacred Bagmati River, the temple built in pagoda style has a jilted roof and richly carved silver doors. Visitors will be permitted to view the temple from the east bank of Bagmati River, entrance in the temple is strictly forbidden to all non Hindus. Pashupatinath is the centre of annual pilgrimage on the day of shivaratri which falls in the month of February/March. Behind the temple tourists can view the cremation grounds.
Boudhanath Stupa
This Stupa, 8 kilometers east of Kathmandu City, is one of the biggest in the world of its kind. It stands with four pairs of eyes in the four cardinal direction keeping watch for righteous behavior and human prosperity. This Buddhis Stupa was built by King Man Deva on the advice of the Goddess Mani Jogini. It is built on an octagonal base inset with prayer wheels. The shrine is ringed by houses of Lamas or Buddhist priest.
Swayambhunath Stupa
Swayambhunath is located approximately 4 kilometers from the main city limits of Kathmandu and this Buddhist Stupa is said to be 2000 years old. The Stupa which forms the main structure is composed of a solid hemisphere of brick and earth supporting a lofty conical spire capped by a pinnacle of copper gilt. Painted on the four sided base of the spire are the all seeing eyes of Lord Buddha. This hill is a medley of small Chaityas and Pagoda temples.
Patan Durbar Square
Patan Durbar Square, like its counterpart in Kathmandu, is an enchanting blend of palace buildings, artistic courtyards and graceful pagoda temples. Listed as a World Heritage Site, the former royal palace complex is the center of Patan’s religious and social life, and houses a museum containing an array of bronze statues and religious objects. One remarkable monument here is a 17th-century temple dedicated to the Hindu god Krishna, built entirely of stone.
The main attractions in Patan
Beside above mentioned places to visit there are other significant sites that can be visited:
- Golden Temple
- Kumbheshwar
- Krishna Mandir
- Jagat Narayan
- Mahaboudha
- Ashokan Stupa
- Machchhendranath Temple
Bhaktapur
Bhaktapur (1,401m) covers an area of four square miles. Bhaktapur or/& also known as the city of devotees still retains a medieval charm and visitors to this ancient town are treated to numerous wonders of cultural and artistic achievements. The past glory of the Malla rulers continues to be reflected at the Darbar Square. Pottery and metal carving are its traditional industries. Bhaktapur is famous for woodcarving and the traditional topi or cap. The city lies about 14 km east of Kathmandu. The places of interest include Bhaktapur Darbar Square, the National Art Gallery, Nyatapola Temple, Bhairavnath Temple, Dattatreya Temple and Dattatreya Square.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square
The main square of the city contains innumerable temples and other architectural showpieces such as lion gate, the golden gate, the statue of King Bhupatindra Malla, Dattatraya Temple etc.
A magnificent statue of King Bhupatindra Malla in the act of worship is placed on a column facing the palace. It was listed in the UNESCO world Heritage Monument List in 1979.
Palace of 55 Windows
Was built by King Yaksha Mall in 1427 A.D. and remodeled by King Bhupatindra Malla in 17th Century, the balcony and the windows are intricately carved is a masterpiece of wood carving.
Nyatapola Temple
This five storied Pagoda Style temple was built by King Bhupatindra Malla in 1708 A.D. well known for its massive structure and subtle workmanship. It is the tallest pagoda structure in the Kathmandu valley.
Nagarkot
Nagarkot is a famous place to see the mountain ranges and sunrise. It lies at an altitude of 2211m and is located 30 km north east of Kathmandu. If weather is good, one can get great views of Himalayas including Annapurna, Langtang, Dorje Lakpa and Gauri Shanker, Ganesh Himal. The mountain flight that goes each day to view Everest and other Himalayas from Kathmandu goes via the Nagarkot route. Many visitors go to Nagarkot to see sunrise. Once the sun begins to rise from behind the Himalayas, it looks spectacular as the mountain changes its color. However to see the sunrise, visitors must go to Nagarkot at 4 o’clock in the morning.
Changunarayan
Changunarayan is situated at the end of a long ridge which runs well into the valley, it is said to have been built in 323 AD by King Hari Datta Varma. The temple is richly decorated with sculptures and carvings. It is said to be the oldest temple in the valley.
