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8 Amazing Must-Visit Famous Places of Kathmandu

8 Amazing Must-Visit Famous Places of Kathmandu

Are you planning a trip to Nepal and want to know where to go in Kathmandu? There is no need to look any further! This blog post will take you on a tour through eight of the most famous places of Kathmandu

Kathmandu, known for its alive streets, vibrant markets, and old temples, is a favorite tourist destination for visitors from all over the world. The city offers a collection of major attractions in Kathmandu that are worth exploring, from stunning stupas and temples to historic palaces and squares. In this blog post, we will highlight 8 famous places of Kathmandu that you should include on your schedule.

In this blog article, we will give a full introduction to each of Kathmandu’s eight popular landmarks, including their history, significance, architecture, and activities to do around. Whether you’re interested in spirituality, and culture, or simply admiring the city’s breathtaking views, these prominent attractions in Kathmandu provide something for everyone. So, let’s get started and discover the magic of Kathmandu!

8 Best Famous Places in Kathmandu

If you are looking to explore famous places to visit in Kathmandu here are some destinations you shouldn’t miss!

1. Swayambhunath Stupa

Swayambhunath Stupa is one of the most famous places of Kathmandu, popularly known as the Monkey Temple due to the huge amount of monkeys that live in the area. This ancient Buddhist temple is thought to be around 2,500 years old and goes back to the 5th century. It is situated on a mountaintop in the city’s western outskirts, viewing the Kathmandu valley. The stupa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and carries huge religious significance for Buddhists and Hindus.

History and Significance

Swayambhunath Stupa has a rich history and is important to both Buddhists and Hindus. According to legend, the stupa was constructed on top of a hill that formed from a primitive lake that once covered the Kathmandu valley. Over the ages, the stupa has been rebuilt and repaired numerous times, with the most recent modifications taking place in the 14th century. It is regarded as one of the holiest Buddhist places in Nepal, as well as a place of significant spiritual importance by Hindus.

Architecture and Design

The stupa’s unique design and style make it one of the most famous places of Kathmandu. The white dome-shaped structure is crowned by a gold-colored spire decorated with the Buddha’s eyes. A number of prayer wheels surround the stupa’s base, which worshipers spin to acquire good karma.

2. Pashupatinath Temple

Pashupatinath Temple is one of the major and famous places of Kathmandu, Nepal. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and both Hindus and Buddhists honor it. The temple stands on the banks of the Bagmati River, surrounded by a lovely green forest. Pashupatinath is a famous place for tourists as well as local people, it is one of Kathmandu most visited place.

History and Significance

Pashupatinath Temple’s history runs back to the 5th century and is thought to be around 2,000 years old. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the Hindu religion’s most important gods. The temple is built by Prachanda Deva, a Lichhavi king. The temple has been renovated and restored multiple times throughout the ages and is currently considered one of Nepal’s major pilgrimage attractions.

Architecture and Design

The architecture and design of Pashupatinath Temple are breathtaking. The temple covers a huge area and has various small temples and monuments. The main temple features a pagoda-style roof with stunning carvings and sculptures which make the temple famous things in Kathmandu, The temple is constructed of wood and is supported by a structure made up of wooden pillars. A massive statue of Nandi, a holy bull, and a number of stone lingams, which are icons of Lord Shiva, are also part of the temple.

3. Boudhanath Stupa

Boudhanath Stupe is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the famous tourist places in Kathmandu. Boudhanath Stupa, located in the city’s northeast, is a majestic structure loved by both Buddhists and Hindus. Boudhanath is one of Kathmandu popular places as well holy places for both Hindus and Buddhists.

History and Significance

Boudhanath Stupa’s history goes back to the 5th century, and it is believed to be over 1,500 years old. The stupa is supposed to house the ashes of an old teacher named Kassapa Buddha. The stupa is also linked to Tibetan culture and is a popular pilgrimage destination for Tibetan Buddhists.

Architecture and Design

The architecture and design of Boudhanath Stupa are unique and breathtaking. The stupa is a large white dome crowned with a golden pinnacle which makes the Boudhanath stupa one of the most famous places of Kathmandu, Prayer wheels, prayer flags, and little monuments surround it. The stupa’s base is beautifully sculptured, and the entire monument is ringed by a circular path around which visitors are able to walk and spin prayer wheels.

4. Durbar Square

Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous places in Kathmandu. Durbar Square, located in the center of the city, is an area of palaces, and temples, that are rich in history and culture. Durbar Square is one of the most visited places in Kathmandu and for good reason. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for tourists

History and Significance

Durbar Square has a rich and long history dating back to the 12th century. It was the royal palace of the Malla kings who ruled over the Kathmandu Valley and later became the Shah dynasty’s center of power. Durbar Square is a significant historical place that has a connection with Nepalese cultural and religious traditions.

Architecture and Design

Durbar Square’s architecture and design are a mix of different styles and influences from various eras. The palace and temples inside the square include beautiful carvings and detailed decorations that demonstrate the Newar artisans’ talent and expertise. Durbar Square’s most well-known structures include the Hanuman Dhoka Palace, Taleju Temple, and Kumari Bahal.

5. Hanuman Dhoka

Hanuman Dhoka is a significant historical building in the center of Kathmandu, Nepal. The name “Hanuman Dhoka” means “Gate of Hanuman” in Nepali and refers to the statue of Hanuman, the monkey god, that sits at the palace’s entrance. Hanuman Dhoka is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the rich history and culture of Kathmandu Valley.

History and Significance

Hanuman Dhoka was originally the royal palace of the Kathmandu Valley’s Malla kings. It was then used as the Shah dynasty’s home and ran as the seat of power until the nineteenth century. Hanuman Dhoka is a popular tourist destination with a rich history and cultural significance.

Architecture and Design

Kathmandu famous for architecture and design, Hanuman Dhoka’s architecture and design are a combination of numerous styles and influences from various eras. The palace has beautiful carvings and accurate decorations that demonstrate the Newar artists’ talent and expertise which make Hanuman Dhoka one of the famous places of Kathmandu. The palace’s courtyards and halls, including the Nasal Chowk, Mul Chowk, and Sundari Chowk, are open to visitors.

6. Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Picture source: traveldiarynepal.com

One of the near by tourist places in Kathmandu is Bhaktapur Durbar Square It is a UNESCO World Heritage site that highlights Nepal’s rich history and culture. The square was previously the Malla kings’ royal palace and is known for its spectacular architecture and design. Visitors can roam around the area at their leisure, exploring the numerous temples and monuments, each has its own story to tell. Around the area, there are also many shops and restaurants where visitors may experience traditional Nepali cuisine and purchase gifts.

History and significance

Bhaktapur Durbar Square has a rich and colorful past dating back to the 12th century. It was originally the Malla rulers’ royal palace and the seat of their authority for nearly 500 years. The square was also an important center of trade and commerce, as well as an important part of Nepal’s cultural and social life. Today, the area is famous for near Kathmandu tourist places.

Architecture and design

Bhaktapur Durbar Square’s architecture and design are very breathtaking. The central area is home to numerous temples, palaces, and other structures, all with complex designs and gorgeous pagoda-style roofs. The 55-Window Palace, erected in the 15th century and featuring sensitive wood carvings and excellent brickwork, is one of the most outstanding structures in the square. Another must-see is the Nyatapola Temple, one of Nepal’s tallest temples with magnificent carvings of goddesses and fantastical animals.

7. Garden Of Dreams

“Garden of Dreams” The Kaiser Mahal Garden, also known as the Royal Garden, is one of the famous places of Kathmandu. This wonderfully designed garden was established as a private garden in the early 1920s before being renovated and presented to the public in 2007. The garden is ideal for anyone seeking a peaceful and nice escape from Kathmandu’s hectic streets. The garden is well-kept, with plenty of seats and places to rest for guests to relax and take in the scenery.

History and Significance:

The Garden of Dreams was established in the early 1920s by Field Marshal Kaiser Sumsher Rana, an important member of the Rana family. The garden was initially known as the ‘Kaiser Mahal Garden’ and was designed in a neo-classical style. Kaiser Sumsher and his family used the garden as a private getaway until the Rana dynasty ended in 1960. Later, the garden was neglected and fell into ruins before being restored and reintroduced to the public in 2007.

Architecture and Design

The Garden of Dreams includes a central pavilion, water fountains, ponds, and covered areas in a neo-classical style. The garden is separated into six structures, each with its own distinct style and design. The garden’s architecture, with its stylish railings, urns, and statues, reminds one of the Victorian era which makes the Garden of Dreams one of the famous places in Kathmandu. The center pavilion is the garden’s main point, surrounded by lush green grass, flowers, and trees.