Boudha Nath

Possibly the world's largest Stupa in South Asia is located at Boudhanath, 5 km north east of the center of Kathmandu. It is considered to be one of the most important Tibetan Buddhism monuments outside of Tibet. This Stupa is the largest Buddhist structure in Nepal, and has been a power place and an important site of pilgrimage since its construction. On their way north out of the Valley, caravans of salt traders, monks, lamas and others made an obligatory stop here to perform protection and prosperity rituals. It is also known as the "Little Tibet" which is still the best place in the Valley to observe the Tibetan lifestyle. The base of the Stupa symbolizes the earth. On top of it is the done which symbolizes water. On top of this i the spire (tower) that symbolizes fire, then the umbrella that symbolizes air. On top is the pinnacle which symbolizes either. The spire has 13 levels, which represents the 13 stages to attain nirvana. On all four sides of the square base of the spire are the all watchful eyes of the Buddha. There is a third eye between and above the normal two eyes. The nose is really the Nepali number one, which signifies the unity of life.

Syambhu Nath

At the top of a knoll on the west of Kathmandu, there is one of the famous monastery of Nepal, Swayambhunath Stupa. This is the largest Stupa in Nepal situated on the hillock of 77m above the level of the Valley and it displays typical Buddhist architecture, was built in 250 B.C. Because of many wild monkeys in this area, it is also very well known as Monkey temple. Its main feature is the white dome is regarded as a spotless and pure jewel or Nirvana. It has thirteen tiers, representing the elevator to Nirvana, and a pair of painted eyes on all four sides of this Stupa, symbolizing the all-seeing eyes of the Buddha, which represented the invisible power of the Buddha. The key attractions of Syambhu Nath are Dewa Dharma Monastery, noted for a bronze icon of Buddha and traditional Tibetan paintings, the huge gold plated Vajra set in the east side of the Stupa etc. At the white half globe base, first level is round which represents the Earth; second level is square which represents the Air; third level is triangle which represents Water; forth level is an umbrella which represents Fire; fifth level is spiral shape which represents Live. In between the eyes, there is a sign that look like a question mark (?) at the position of the nose; it is actually the number 1 in Nepalese language which signifies the unity of life. There also exist six big Buddhist monasteries in all-five Mahayan (Lamaist) and one Hinyan (Therbadist). On the hind hill is located another important Buddhist shrine; it is called Manjushree. This compassionate Chinese Buddha is the God of Knowledge.

Pasupati Nath

The temple of Pashupatinath, holiest Hindu pilgrimage site is located in Deopatan, a little town 3 km north west of Kathmandu Valley. It is a Hindu temple, dedicated to a manifestation of Lord Shiva called Pasupati (Lord of Animals). It attracts thousands of pilgrims each year and has become well known far beyond the Kathmandu Valley. From time immortal, the Pashupatinath area has contained numerous temples, Stupa, monasteries, images and inscriptions. Its original beauty still remains with the beautifully sculpted stone sculptures found here. The temple is barred to non-Hindus, but a good view of the temple compound's inner courtyard can be had from Shleshmantak hill on the opposite (eastern) bank of the Bagmati River. It is not known when the temple was founded. Tradition says it was constructed by Pashupreksha of the Somadeva Dynasty in the 3rd century BC, but the first historical records date from the 13th century.

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Kathmandu, the capital and the largest city of Nepal, derives its name from Kasthmandap or "house of wood" a pagoda-style temple. This complex of palaces, courtyards and temples like Hanumandhoka Palace, Kumari Ghar (abode of the Living Goddess), Taleju temple, built between the 12th and 18th centuries, used to be the seat of the ancient Malla Kings of Kathmandu. As such, the square remains the traditional heart of the old town and Kathmandu’s most spectacular legacy of traditional architecture, even though the King no longer lives in the Hanuman Dhoka. The Durbar Square, protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the social, religious and urban focal point of the city. The interesting things to see here are the ferocious Kal Bhairav Mandir, Nautalle Durbar Square (nine storied palace), Coronation Nasal Chowk, and the Gaddi Baithak, statue of King Pratap Malla, the big Drum and the Jagannath Temple. Even to date, all the major state and social ceremonies, including the solemnization of coronations are performed in one of the courtyards in this complex. There is also the Numismatic Museum and Tribhuvan Museum inside the place building. Photography is prohibited inside the museum. Both the museum remains closed on Tuesday and public holidays.

Patan Durbar Square

The ancient city of Patan is also known as Lalitpur or the city of the fine arts. It is nearly 5 km far from the south east of Kathmandu Valley. It is famous as the city of fine arts, full of Hindu temples and Buddhist monuments. This imposing sight fascinates the visitors at the first glimpse. Patan's central Durbar is absolutely packed with the temples: it's an architectural center point with a far greater concentration of temples per sq. km than in Kathmandu Valley. The most impressive focal point is Patan Durbar Square full of ancient places, temples and shrines. The Square consists of 3 courtyards, the central Mul Chowk, Sundari Chowk and Keshar Narayan Chowk and was listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Monuments List in 1979. The major attraction is the Patan Durbar Square, Krishna Mandir, Mahaboudha, Ashok Stupa and other many more.

Patan Durbar Square is a concentrated mass of temples, the most stunning display of Newari architecture to be seen in Nepal. Listed in 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. The Square is full of ancient palaces, temples and shrines, noted for their exquisite carvings. One remarkable monument here is a 17th century temple dedicated to the Hindu God Lord Krishna, built entirely of stone. The Square has been described as one of the most picturesque collection of buildings that have been set up so small a place by the piety of oriental man. The important things to be seen in this area include the Golden Gate and the Golden Window of the old Palace, the beautiful piece of traditional metal crafts, the famed Krishna temple with 21 golden pinnacles, the Royal bath of Sundari Chowk, and a perfect piece of the classic work in stone. The square has been unrestrainedly adored by the Bhimsen Temple, Manga Hiti, Vishwanath Temple, Jagganarayan Temple and numerous.

Krishna Mandir, the temple of Lord Krishna was built in 17th century holds a commanding position in the palace complex of Patan. It is the only Temple in Nepal having 21 spires and completely made of stone. It is also supposed to be the first specimen of Shikhara style architecture in Nepal. It is listed in the world heritage because of its delighted and wonderful value.

There are 4 Ashoka Stupa popularly believed to have been built in 250 B.C by the Emperor Ashoka at the four corners of the Patan. The four stupas are situated in the Pulchowk, Lagankhel, Ebhai and in Teta respectively.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Bhaktapur also known as Bhadgaon is shaped like conch. It is a medieval city designed in the 19th century by its founder King Ananda Malla having an area of 139 sq km. It is situated at 1401m from the sea level and 13 km far from Kathmandu on the east side, linked with a motor able road. This city divided into 24 traditional locality covers an area of 5 sq km. The lion gate, the statue of the King Bhupatindra Malla, the National Art Gallery, the Batsala temple, the palace of 55 Windows, the Picture Gallery and the bell of the barking dogs are but a few of the sights to visit in the square. The statue of the King Bhupatindra Malla in the act of worship is placed on a column facing the palace. Of the many statues available in Nepal this is considered to be the most magnificent. The glorious five storied 'Nyatapola' Temple and the 'Fifty five window Palace' are among many attractions here. Bhaktapur is equally famous for its woodcarving, clay works and typical Nepali cap. Bhaktapur today sets an example to its other sister cities as to how one can preserve an ancient city and its outlook for future generation.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square is much larger and more spacious than Kathmandu's and much less crowded with temples than Patan. Bhaktapur Durbar square is one of the seven UNESCO world heritage sites located in the Kathmandu valley. Some of the most popular monuments golden gate, peacock window and Nyatapola temple are main attractions. The Bhaktapur Durbar Square contains many temples and others architectural ones like Lion Gate, the statue of King Bhupatindra Malla, the picture gallery, the Golden gate, Nyatapola temple (Built in 1702 AD), the palace of 55 windows (Built in 1700 AD), Dattatraya temple (Built in 1427 AD), Bhairabnath temple (Built in 1718A AD), the Batsala temple and the Bell of the Barking Dogs and many other ancient monuments. Before the unification of Nepal, Bhaktapur was an independent principality ruled by the Malla Kings, who were very much devoted to religion, culture and art. During the period many magnificent temples and mansions were built. This period is remembered as Golden period in the Nepalese art and remains a unique example. The ancient Royal palace is remarkable and an excellent example of 18th century architecture made by King Bhupatindra Malla whose statue stands in front of the Golden Gate. Around the Durbar square the curio shops, woods and stone carvings, thangkas have become a good attraction.

The palace of 55 windows was built in 17th century by King Bhupatindra Malla. Among the brick walls with their gracious setting and sculptural design, is a balcony of 55 windows.

Golden Gate is the entrance to the main courtyard of the Palace of 55 windows. It is built be King Ranjit Malla, which is one of the most beautiful and richly carved specimens of its kind in the entire world.

The Nyatapola Temple is the most dominantly lying in the south face of the square, named after its physical structure (five tires of roof). It is made by King Bhupatindra Malla in 1702 A.D is dedicated to the Goddess Siddhi Laxmi. It is one of the tallest pagodas and is famous for its massive structure and subtle workmanship.

Dattatraya Temple is built in 1417 A.D by King Yakshya Malla and his son Raja Malla is only the temple in Nepal which is dedicated to the God Dattatraya ( the combine incarnation of Supreme Gods of Hinduism, i.e. Lord Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva).

Dattatraya square is open museum that contains innumerable monumental masterpieces of wood carvings. The major attraction of this Dattatraya square is ''Pujari Math'', built by King Yakshya Malla in 15th century. It has a splendid collection of antique carvings like a set of 14 roof struts, image of Vishnu dhara, tantric images of Vishnu Vishwarupa with 30 arms and 17 faces. The other one is Bhimsen Temple which stands a double storied rectangular pagoda styled temple dedicated to Lord Bhimsen in 1605 A.D. Lord Bhimsen is considered to be strong as thousand elephant.

There are many museums in the Bhaktapur area which displays the ancient and historical items. The National Art Gallery has a magnificent collection of ancient thangkas paintings and various classic and medieval masterpieces belonging to Hindu and Buddhist schools. The other one is Wood Carving museums containing the elegant architecture with the enumerable intricately carved wooden doors and windows including the famous Peacock window. Right to the Wood Carving museum, the Bronze and Brass museum displays the heterogeneous ceremonial and household metal items like of jars, water vessels, cooking pots, oils pots etc which are used in the ancient and medieval ages.

Budhanilkantha

Situated in Shivapuri hill at the northern end the valley, Budhanilkantha is 9 km far from Kathmandu City. The hub of the temple complex is a pond in which lies a 5 meter long great stone figure of Hindu god Vishnu reclining on the coils of a cosmic serpent. The figure has been estimated to have been found buried in the ground in its original state more than thousand years ago. Hindus throng to this sacred pilgrimage almost every day to perform puja but a great number of worshippers can be seen in various festivals, especially on Haribodhini Ekadashi that falls between October/November, the day believed that the sleeping Lord Vishnu wakes up. The huge statue of sleeping Vishnu is carved from the single block of black stone of a type not found in the valley. Besides Budhanilkantha temple, there are two sets of exactly similar, but smaller 'sleeping Vishnu' in the Valley.

Dakshinkali

The temple of Dakshinkali is situated about 22 km south-west of Kathmandu. This temple is dedicated to the Hindu Goddess Kali or the goddess of power; she is regarded as one of the most important Hindu goddess. Dakshinkali is an important place of pilgrimage, drawing over 400,000 pilgrims a year. Pilgrim visits this temple to offer prayers and the shrine is especially crowded on Tuesdays and Saturdays when animal sacrifices are offered to the deity. Apart from the religious aspects, the site has also been developed as a popular picnic spot. On the way back, stop at Chobhar, the famous gorge lies just 8 km south west of Kathmandu. The narrow gash in the hills was made by Lord Manjushree to drain out the lake which once covered the Valley. There is a small but picturesque Adinath temple on the hill from where a majestic view of snow clad mountain can be viewed close by on the clear day. Near the village of Pharping, the pleasant spot called Sheka Narayan lies which are one of the Narayani temples of the Valleys.

Nagarkot

There are various places around the edge of the Kathmandu Valley which offer great mountain views, but Nagarkot is generally held to be the best mountain watchers make their way up to the village, stay overnight in one of Nagarkot lodges or hotels than rise at dawn to see the sun appear over the Himalayas. This place is the popular sport for viewing the early morning sunrise and evening sunset over the mountains, layout of Kathmandu Valley below. Nagarkot lies on a ridge 32 kilometers north-east of Kathmandu along the rim of the valley at an altitude of 2,174 m. The panorama of the major peaks of eastern Nepal Himalayas like Dorje Lakpa, Manaslu (8463m), Ganesh Himal (7111m), Lang tang (7246m), Gaurishanker (7134m) and even Mt. Everest (8848m) can be seen from Nagarkot on the clear day. It also offers an excellent view of the Indrawati river valley to the east. It looks spectacular as the mountains change color. Many visitors prefer to visit Nagarkot in the spring when surrounding valleys break out in a rich kaleidoscope of different colored flowers. The flowers are beautiful against the serene backdrop of the snow-covered mountains. Ever popular among the tourists are the short treks and picnics which Nagarkot offers. Treks from Nagarkot are unique and delightful. For anyone who wants to have an adventure without exerting much effort, a hike to Nagarkot surrounding areas would be a good option. One can traverse short distances on trekking trails and come close to nature's wonders such as the outer of verdant forests, flower-covered meadows and unusual rock formations.

Changu Narayan Temple

It is situated on a ridge overlooking the Valley, about 12 km to the east of the city. It is dedicated to the Hindu God Vishnu, the Preserver. It is one of the finest and oldest specimens of pagoda architecture, the temple is embellished with exquisite wood and stone carvings and is said to be the oldest pagoda style temple in Nepal built sometime back in 323 A.D. The lavishly decorated two-tiered temple was rebuilt after a fire in 1702, but the earliest inscription in the valley dated 323 A.D. testifies to the considerable talents of the Licchavi King Mandeva I, Nepal’s first great historical figure. The sacred complex is a World Heritage Site and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding at 125m. Changu Narayan is not known for its temple but for the stone statues, bas-relief carvings, and inscriptions that are scattered around the temple courtyard. At the bottom of the stone, Vishnu is shown reclining on a bed of snakes, the same pose that is depicted in the large statue of Budhanilkantha. Near the famous double Vishnu is a stone depicting another incarnation of Lord Vishnu, the half-man and half-lion called Narsimha.

Namo Buddha

Namo Buddha means 'Greetings to the Buddha'. It is the symbol of human sacrifice at the highest possible level. Namo Buddha, the sacred Buddhist shrine is located at south-east and couple hour’s drive from Kathmandu. This Namo Buddha is situated on a hill above Panauti and requires either drive or good hike, walk is recommended to visit this place. There is an amazing story concerned with the Buddha which is commemorated by an ancient stone slab and a Stupa with the all-seeing eyes of Lord Buddha. According to the legend, one of the earlier Buddha offered his own flesh to a hungry tiger unable to feed her hungry cubs. Better know by Tibetans as Tag-mo Lu-jin. This means the place where the Buddha offered his body to the hungry mother tigress. It is renowned for Shakyamuni's act of compassion upon encountering a hungry mother tigress he offered her his body so that she could feed her cubs. There are a couple monasteries and one ancient stupa erected nearby in which one can make offerings, pray, and light butter lamps. It is an ideal place for in meditation. Namo Buddha is one of the principal places of pilgrimage for the Lama Tibetans. Buddhists believe that anyone who worships here properly will get free from all kinds of evil spirits and their wills can be fulfilled.

Bandipur

Bandipur, an ancient Newari mountain town, is a treasure waiting to be discovered by travelers. It is situated 7 km above Dumre Bazaar at an altitude of 1005m. This ancient trading post lies cradled in the saddle of some of the country's most peculiar-shaped hills. Untouched by modernization, and laced with an abundance of ancient houses, temples of great significance, and historical architecture, this medieval-era town boasts festivals all year around, besides plethora of cultural offerings. Neighboring Magar, Gurung, Bahun, Chhetri, Damai and Sarki villages all contribute to the cultural diversity of the region. The hilltop town not only overlooks the incredible expanse of the Marsyangdi river valley, but also offers a breathtaking sweep of the Himalayan range, from Lang tang in the east to Dhaulagiri in the west. From nearby hilltops, one can see as far as Manakamana (holy temple) and Gorkha to east the great Chitwan plains to the south, among others. While the Siddha Gufa (the largest cavern in the country) and Patali Dwar (a.k.a. the Gateway to Heaven) are must-sees, this place also offers endless hiking possibilities in the surrounding hills.

Lumbini

Lumbini is the birth place of Lord Buddha, the apostle of peace and compassion. It is 21 km west of Bhairahawa and 285 km south-west of Kathmandu. It is a place of pilgrimage for Buddhist as well as place of reverence for peace lovers of any religious faith throughout the world. The birth of Buddha at Lumbini has been recorded in the pillar inscription 'The Light of Asia' although there is not much to see but the peaceful environment provides you with inner sense of tranquility. Lumbini's status as a garden of peace has recognized the world over and Buddhists are undertaking its development from everywhere. The pillar was erected by Emperor Ashoka in 249 BC to commemorate his pilgrimage to the sacred site. To the south of the pillar, we fine the sacred pond, Puskarni, where Queen Mayadevi had taken a bath just before giving birth to the Buddha. It has a stone image of Maya Devi giving birth to Lord Buddha as she holds onto a branch. The Lumbini village lies as a gateway to the outer world. Lumbini gardens, dotted with holy shrines, stupas, monasteries, Ashoka Pillar pinpointing the birth place of Buddha are the principal attraction of Lumbini. The Government of Nepal formed the Lumbini Development trust to oversee the development of the entire Lumbini area as a religious and pilgrimage center. In the Sacred Garden, you can visit Myanmar Temple, Royal Monastery, International Gautami Nuns Temple, Lotus Stupa, Dharmaoday Nepal Monastery, Ladak Kagyud Monastery, Dharma Swami Maharaja Buddha Vihara, Mahabodhi Society of Calcutta and Manang Monastery. Lumbini is listed in the World Heritage Monument List by UNESCO.

Dhulikhel

Dhulikhel, at 1625m is justly famous as well-preserved Newar town surrounded by the Tamang, mountain viewpoint, and hiking point and biking hub, but its popularity is waning as road- building and modernization take their toll. It is a small town 30 km east of Kathmandu, lies along the Arniko Highway to Jiri (trekking start point of Everest region) and Tibet. It is popular for its natural beauty and ancient beauty. This is yet another place for the magnificent mountain views. The snowy panorama as seen from Dhulikhel shows the Himalayas all the way from Karyolung in the east of Hiunchuli in the west. Spending a night at Dhulikhel to view the sunrise across the mountain range is money well spent. It is ideal for the snow capped peaks, sunrise, sunset and it is different from the other place. Meanwhile, a flurry of secondary road-building in the area has taken a lot of the pleasure out of the standard Namo Buddha-Panauti itineraries, although the destinations themselves remain as worthy as ever.

Pokhara

Pokhara is the most popular destination in Nepal after Kathmandu. Located at an altitude of 820m from the sea level and 200km north-west of Kathmandu valley, the city is also known as "The center of adventure of Nepal". Pokhara is a place of remarkable natural beauty. This beautiful valley is also the most famous gate-way for the world famous trekking areas such as Fishtail, Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. There are three lakes including the second biggest one of the country in this valley, where one can enjoy the crystal clear reflection of snow capped mountains down over the blue water, right next to the city center. The atmosphere on the shores of Phewa Lake is one of excited vitality as hipster backpackers crowd the many bars and restaurants exchanging recommendations on guest houses and viewpoints, both by the lake and above the clouds. At an elevation lower than Kathmandu, it has a much more tropical feel to it, a fact well appreciated by the beautiful diversity of flowers which prosper in its environs. Indeed, the valley surrounding Pokhara is home to thick forests, gushing rivers, emerald lakes, and of course, the world famous views of the Himalaya. The serenity of Phewa Lake and the magnificence of the fishtailed summit of Machhapuchre (6,977m) rising behind it create an ambience of peace and magic. This is why it has also become a place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature beside the trekking and rafting adventures. Stretching from east to west, the Annapurna massif includes Annapurna I to IV and Annapurna South.

Phewa Lake

Phewa Lake, the second largest lake in the kingdom is the center of all the attractions in Pokhara. Situated at the western edge of the valley at an altitude of 748m above sea-level, the largest lake of Pokhara covers an area of 4.43 sq km (original area was 9 sq km) with the maximum depth of 19m. Brightly painted wooden boats and sailboats can be rented on the reasonable cost around lakeside. The eastern shore, popularly known as Lakeside or Baidam, is the favorite haunt of all travelers’ restaurants, handicraft shops and other tourist facilities are located. There is a famous shrine of Barahi (goddess) over a small island of the lake, which is another attraction of the valley. One can have a crystal clear reflection of Mt. Machhapuchre (Mt. Fish Tail) and the famous Annapurna range over the blue water of the lake, which is surrounded by beautiful hills with dense subtropical forests full of floras and faunas. The enchanting lake is also an idyllic playground for swimming, canoeing and fishing.

Begnas and Rupa Lake

Begnas lake is the second largest lake of Pokhara, which is about 15 km south-east from the lake-side town at an altitude of 650m above sea level. The lake covers an area of 3 sq km with the maximum depth of 13.48m and is surrounded by scenic hills with dense jungle where abundant leopards roam majestically. One can enjoy fishing and boating in this lake along with travelling to the nearby villages. Tourist can relax in the lodges and resorts situated alongside the lake. The lakes offer the prefect nature retreat because of their relative’s seclusion and opportunities for boating and fishing.

Davi's fall

Locally known as Patale Chango (Hell’s fall) is about 2 km south-west of Pokhara airport on the Siddhartha Highway. Legend has it that a trekker by the name of Davy was washed away by the Padi Khola and mysteriously disappeared down into an underground passage beneath the fall. This beauty of Mother Nature is one of the most attractive spot in Pokhara.

World Peace Pagoda

World Peace Pagoda is a huge Buddhist stupa situated at the top of a hill on the southern shore of Phewa lake. It has four images of Buddha facing in four directions. The Pagoda is an impressive sight and its hilltop location commands a grand view. Besides being an impressive sight, the shrine is also a perfect spot to have magnificent views of the Annapurna range and Pokhara city. Visitors can get there by crossing the lake by boat and then hiking up the hill.

Mahendra Cave

Another of nature’s wonders in Pokhara is the Mahendra Gufa (Cave). Mahendra cave is named after the Late King Mahendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev, which was discovered around 1950 by some local shepherd boys. The locals call this cave as Chamero Odaar (house of bats) and are one of the most famous tourist sites in Pokhara. This natural lime stone cave is located at a distance of couple hours walk in the northern settlements of the valley. Visitors are advised to bring torch lights with them to have the wonderful views of the glittering stones like stalactites and stalagmites inside this dark cave.

Bat Cave

The Bat Cave is located at a small distance from Mahendra Cave and was discovered by the owner of the land (a farmer). The entrance of the cave is a bit narrow but it is wider inside and the inner walls are full of carved images of gods and goddess. This 150 m long and 25 ft high cave is also the home for over 15000 bats of different species.

Gupteshwor Cave

Gupteshwor cave is a holy cave, which is at a distance of 2 km from Pokhara Airport at the south-west from the town. This sacred cave for Hindus is almost 3 km long, where a phallic symbol of lord Shiva is preserved in the same condition as it was discovered. The entrance of this cave is just above David's fall. Some of the inner passages are bigger (hall-sized) while some need to be crawled on all fours. Taking pictures inside is strictly prohibited since this is a holy cave.

Museum

Pokhara Museum is located between the airport and Mahendra Pul. It reflects the ethnic mosaic of western Nepal. The lifestyles and history of ethnic groups such as the Gurung, Thakali and the Tharu are nicely displayed in the museum. It is Open 6 days a week (except Tuesdays and holidays), from 10 am to 4 pm.

Annapurna Museum is also known as the Natural History Museum. It is located at Prithvi Narayan Campus east of the old bazaar, and is managed by the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP). The museum has exceptional collections of butterflies, insects, birds, and models of wildlife as well as samples of various precious and semi-precious stones and volcanic rocks. It is open six days a week (except Saturdays and holidays), from 9 am to 4 pm. Entrance to the museum is free.