Sightseeing in Kathmandu

Kathmandu Durbar Square: Kathmandu Durbar Square was the old royal palace of the former King of Kathmandu. Also known as the Hanuman Dhoka Durbar Square, the area consists of various ancient temples showcasing Nepalese art and architecture at its best. The surrounding quadrangles reveal networks of courtyards and several Nepalese, Shikara, and mix style temples. The temples are carved on wood showcasing mythical creatures and erotic carvings. The various temple dedicated to different deities date back from the 12th to 18th centuries. Explore the area and also visit the old palace which now is a museum.

Swayambhunath Stupa: The Swayambhunath Temple has a compelling mix of both Hindu temples and Buddhist shrines and stupas. Showcasing harmony between the two religious groups. Perched on a hill in the western part of the Kathmandu Valley, is one of the most sacred and oldest pilgrimage sites. Swayambhunath is Dhamek Stupa, an aspect of truth or reality. According to legends, a lotus with a fire bloomed at a tiny pond of Naghdaha. From where it was brought upon these hills and a Stupa was constructed to preserve it. Later the present structure was built. The Stupa is popularly known amongst foreigners as the Monkey Temple as a large monkey population resides in the area. From the Stupa witness grand views of the valley and the greater Himalayan range to the north.

Pashupatinath Temple: Pashupatinath Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. This massive temple complex sits alongside the banks of the holy Bagmati River. Only Hindus are allowed to enter the courtyard of the temple. Whereas tourists can see the temple from the eastern side of the Bagmati River. The temple area is full of several temples of numerous Hindu deities, which gives the whole place an ambiance of a sacred paradise. Regarded at the head of Shiva this temple is visited by devotees, pilgrims, saints, and sage throughout the year.

Bouddhanath Stupa: The Bouddhanath Stupa is one of the largest Stupa in the world. This massive structure stands tall with four pairs of eyes each facing the four cardinal directions, watching for the righteous behavior of mankind and human prosperity. Perched on the ancient trade route to Tibet the stupa is visited by a large number of devotees following Buddhism. Boudha Stupa is a Sararika Stupa as it is built upon the relics of the Kashyap Buddha. The Stupa complex is believed to be a mandala a powerful tool for meditation. A spectacular display of art and architecture of ancient Nepal.

Final Departure

After enjoying the grand views of the sunrise head towards Kathmandu International Airport. If you have any inquiries or require assistance and further information about this trip or any other trips, please feel free to contact Alpine Club of Himalaya – Walk of the Himalaya. 

NOTE: All of the aforementioned trekking hours are approximations and should only be used as a general guideline.